Lonely Planet™ · Thorn Tree Forum · 2020

Tiger Leaping Gorge vs Inca Trail

Interest forums / Trekking & Mountaineering

Hey Guys

Just looking for some advice from those that have performed both the Tiger Leaping Gorge trek and the Inca trail to compare the difficulty of them both. I ask as I have completed the Inca trail during wet season myself a few years back but am now looking at the Tiger Leaping Gorge whilst I am here in China. The guidebooks all encourage a high level of fitness but want to get some feedback from those who have done it.

I must point out that I am not an unfit person as I do train but would rate myself at a moderate level of fitness.

Thanks in advance

I have done both and I think the Inca trail is harder.
It's only the first hike up on the first day of Tiger Leaping gorge that is a bit tough, but there is no high altitude issue, so it's
not that much of a big deal if you are reasonably fit.
If you are going to do it during the rainy season do be careful, because nasty landslides are common in the area. It was quite terrifying when I went, I think it was in September.

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Agreed! Inca trail is far harder than Tiger leaping Gorge but also more spectacular. I would recommend Inca trail far and above beyond Tiger leaping Gorge, even though I enjoyed the latter still as it was pretty.

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I think whoever said TLG is tough is not a regular trekker. 28 bends is a slow and steady climb, and the descent/ascent to the river from the road is also a bit steep. If you are moderately fit you won't have a problem.

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