Machu Picchu and walking stick

[RELS]

We have a pre-cruise Machu Picchu tour in December. I use a walking stick (hiking pole with rubber tip). I understand that for the most part these are banned at Machu Picchu. How does one prove that one needs this accommodation? Do I need a doctor's note in Spanish, or will just showing them my knee braces be enough?

 

Thanks for any info.

[GeorgeCharlie]

We were on a cruise last fall, which allowed for a side trip to Machu Picchu and, as I also have to wear braces on both knees, I enquired about the same thing as you are.

 

What I was told was that use of a walking pole is randomly enforced, but if you have one stick with rubber tip you probably would not be bothered by anyone. If you are elderly/disabled, they are going to allow them. Another option if you just need it for stability is a collapsible cane, which is what I use while travelling and is less likely to raise eyebrows.

 

In the end, we decided not to take the side trip.

 

Edited October 3, 2023 by GeorgeCharlie

[surreymum]

We went to Machu Picchu in 2019. I am neither elderly nor disabled but have an issue with dislocating kneecaps so prefer to use a collapsible walking pole on steep or uneven ground. I had a thick rubber tip on my pole and it wasn’t questioned when we entered.

[roberts2005]

Not sure about any such rule.  Stayed overnight at the Belmond hotel just out side the entrance.  The hotel provided hiking sticks to their guests, which I used.  Never looked at the bottoms

[lynncarol]

i used a seat-cane with sling-seat that has four legs with rubber tips.  Nobody said a word.  I think what they don't want are the kind of hiking sticks that dig into the ground.