The Amalfi Coast Path

To fully enjoy the Amalfi Coast Trek, you need to be in very good physical condition with the endurance to hike up to 18km (11 miles) per day over hilly, uneven terrain for multiple days in a row.

This is considered a Grade 3 (Challenging) trek, with 600-1250m of elevation gain and loss each day. You'll encounter steep, rocky paths and lots of stone staircases that can be hard on the knees.

While you don't need to be an elite athlete, you should be a regular hiker with experience doing consecutive days of walking while carrying a daypack. You should feel comfortable hiking up to 6-7 hours per day with minimal breaks.

If you're not currently fit enough, we recommend beginning a training regimen at least 3 months before your trek that includes cardio, strength training and practice hikes. The more prepared you are, the more rewarding the experience will be!

For the Amalfi Coast Trek, a sturdy pair of hiking boots or hiking shoes with good traction. You will get more ankle support from boots which may help to prevent injuries on the rocky, uneven paths and stone staircases.

Look for a lightweight, waterproof boot or shoe.

It's crucial that your boots or shoes are well broken-in before you trek to avoid painful blisters. Start wearing them on short walks a few weeks in advance, gradually increasing the distance. Fine-tune the fit with custom insoles and different lacing techniques as needed.

While not suitable for long hikes, a pair of comfortable shoes or sandals is great for exploring villages and evenings at your hotel.

The Amalfi Coast has a typical Mediterranean climate, with hot, sunny summers and mild winters. Spring (April-May) and fall (September-October) are ideal for trekking, with generally stable weather and pleasant temperatures.

Daytime temperatures average 15-22°C (59-72°F) during the trekking season, with the warmest periods in late spring and early fall. Overnight lows dip down to around 10-15°C (50-59°F), feeling cooler in the hills and mountains. Bomerano, at 600m elevation, will be about 5°C colder than the coastal villages.

April and May tend to be drier months, while September and October see an uptick in rainfall. However, precipitation is possible at any time of year and thunderstorms can roll in quickly, especially in the mountains.

No matter when you trek, it's essential to pack layers so you can adapt to changing weather. Bring a waterproof jacket and warm fleece or gillet and a waterproof cover for your ruc-sac to keep your gear protected.

Your guide will provide daily updates on the forecast so you know what to expect. But be prepared for anything - that's part of the adventure!

Tipping your guide is a thoughtful way to show your appreciation for their hard work and dedication throughout the trek. While by no means mandatory, it's a common practice and always well-received.

As a guideline, we recommend budgeting approximately €30-50 per person in your trekking group for a tip. But the exact amount is up to you and what you feel comfortable with based on the service you received.

It's best to tip in cash so your guide can use it right away. Euros are the preferred currency, but if you only have GBP or USD on hand, those are okay too.

Remember that your tip is a personal token of thanks and should not be viewed as an obligation. The most important thing is that you enjoyed your trek and made some special memories in this beautiful part of Italy!

The Amalfi Coast Trek is a challenging route with significant elevation gain and loss, so the best way to prepare is to mimic those conditions in your training.

Ideally, start training at least 3 months before your trip. Gradually build up your hiking distances and elevation gains so your body has time to adapt. Try to do at least one long hike (12+ km) per week, and supplement with other cardio like running, cycling or swimming.

Aim to include a variety of terrain in your hikes, especially hills and uneven surfaces like rocks and roots. This will help build strength and stability in your legs and ankles.

If you can, do some training hikes on consecutive days while carrying a weighted pack (6-8kg) to simulate your trek. This is the best way to gauge your fitness and make any necessary adjustments to your pack weight or boots.

In the gym, focus on exercises that target your legs, core and upper body. Squats, lunges, step-ups and deadlifts are all excellent for building lower body strength. Planks, Russian twists and bicycle crunches will boost your core stability.

Don't neglect your upper body - you'll be surprised how much you use your arms and shoulders on steep climbs and descents. Dumbbell rows, push-ups and pull-ups are great options.

Finally, make sure you're giving your body enough rest and proper nutrition. Eat a balanced diet with plenty of fruits, vegetables and lean protein. Stay hydrated and aim for 7-9 hours of sleep per night.

By putting in the work before your trek, you'll be ready to tackle the Amalfi Coast with confidence and fully enjoy the spectacular scenery along the way!

Packing the right gear is essential for your comfort and safety on the Amalfi Coast Trek. Here's a suggested packing list:

Clothing:

• T-shirts
• Hiking trousers or shorts
• Fleece jacket or pullover
• Waterproof jacket
• Waterproof trousers
• Hiking socks (wool or synthetic)
• Underwear
• Sleepwear
• Sun hat or cap
• Casual clothing for evenings

Footwear:

• Sturdy hiking boots or shoes
• Casual shoes or sandals

Gear:

• 30-40L backpack with rain cover
• Trekking poles
• Water bottles or hydration reservoir (2L capacity)
• Sunglasses
• Sunscreen and lip balm
• Insect repellent
• Toiletries
• Plug adapter

Documents:

• Passport
• Travel insurance policy
• Trip itinerary and confirmations
• Emergency contact list
• Cash and credit/debit cards

Optional:

• GPS device
• Reusable shopping bag
• Snacks and energy bars
• Hand sanitizer or wet wipes

Remember, you only need to carry a daypack with essentials for the day's hike. Your main luggage will be transferred between hotels. But do be prepared for a variety of conditions, from hot sun to rain and wind.

Pack light, but pack smart - and don't forget to break in your hiking boots before you arrive!

The Amalfi Coast Trek involves numerous steep staircases and descents on rocky paths, which can be hard on the joints, especially the knees and ankles. Here are some tips to help you prepare:

1. Train on hills and stairs

Incorporate plenty of uphill and downhill walking into your training hikes. Look for routes with stairs, steep inclines and uneven terrain to build strength and endurance. If you don't have hills nearby, use a treadmill on a high incline or a stair-climbing machine at the gym.

2. Practice proper technique

When climbing stairs or hills, lean forward slightly and take short, even steps. Engage your core and use your glutes and hamstrings to power the ascent. On descents, keep your knees slightly bent and control your speed. Avoid landing on locked knees or pounding down with each step, as this can cause pain and injury.

3. Use trekking poles

Trekking poles are highly recommended for the Amalfi Coast Trek. They help distribute your weight, reduce impact on your joints and provide stability on uneven ground. Use one pole for balance on flat terrain and two for steep ascents and descents. Make sure they're properly adjusted for your height.

4. Strengthen your legs and core

Strong quadriceps, hamstrings, glutes and calf muscles are crucial for tackling stairs and hills. Incorporate squats, lunges, step-ups and calf raises into your strength training routine. Core exercises like planks, bird dogs and bridges will improve your stability and balance.

5. Stretch and foam roll

Tight muscles can lead to imbalances and injuries, so it's important to stretch regularly as part of your training. Focus on your quads, hip flexors, hamstrings and calves. A foam roller can help release tension and improve flexibility. Gentle yoga or Pilates classes can also be beneficial.

6. Perfect your footwear

Make sure your hiking boots fit properly and provide adequate support for your feet and ankles. Wear them on training hikes to fully break them in before your trip. Pair them with high-quality hiking socks to prevent blisters.

By training properly and using the right techniques and gear, you'll be well-prepared to handle the Amalfi Coast's challenging terrain. And the stunning coastal views will be all the more rewarding for your efforts!

One of the highlights of the Amalfi Coast Trek is the delicious local cuisine you'll get to sample along the way. The region is known for its fresh seafood, flavorful vegetables, handmade pastas and zesty lemon dishes. Here's what you can expect:

Breakfasts

Most hotels provide a continental breakfast buffet with a variety of options:

• Bread, cakes and pastries
• Local cheeses and cured meats
• Yogurt and cereal
• Fresh fruit and juices
• Coffee, tea and milk

Lunches

On trekking days, you'll enjoy picnic lunches. These may include:

• Sandwiches on crusty bread with fresh mozzarella, prosciutto or grilled vegetables, eggs or tuna
• Fruit
• water

On other days, you're free to choose your own lunch at a local cafe or restaurant. Popular dishes include:

• Pizza with various toppings
• Local fish
• Insalata mista (mixed greens) or Caprese salad (tomoatoes and mozarella)
• Pasta al pomodoro (with tomato sauce) or other simple pasta dishes

Dinners

1 dinner is included at your hotel, featuring regional specialties such as:

• Durum wheat pasta with seafood, vegetables or pesto sauce
• Risotto alla pescatora (with mixed seafood)
• Grilled fish or calamari
• Eggplant parmigiana or zucchini alla scapece (marinated zucchini)
• Insalata Caprese with fresh buffalo mozzarella
• Neapolitan-style pizza margherita or other wood-fired pizzas
• Torta caprese (flourless chocolate-almond cake) or lemon delizia

On nights when dinner is on your own, you can explore the many excellent restaurants in each town. Menus feature a variety of antipasti (starters), primi (pasta courses), secondi (main courses) and contorni (side dishes). Don't miss the chance to try local wine like crisp Falanghina or robust Aglianico.

Vegetarians will find plenty of options, but vegan and gluten-free choices may be more limited. If you have dietary restrictions, be sure to let us know in advance so we can inform the hotels.

While most of your major expenses are included in the Amalfi Coast Trek package price, you'll still need to budget for some extras. Here's a rough guide:

Food and drink

• Lunches on 4 days: €10-20 per person per day
• Dinners on 6 nights: €20-30 per person per night
• Soft drinks/water: €2-3 each
• Coffee/cappuccino: €1-2 each
• Beer: €4-6 each
• Wine: €4-8 per glass, €15-30 per bottle
• Gelato/limoncello: €3-5 each

Transportation

• Bus tickets on the free day for exploring : €2-5 each way
• Optional ferry to Capri (if visiting on the free day): €20-40 round-trip depending on the season and type of ticket

Incidentals

• Souvenirs: varies widely
• Postcards: €0.50-1 each, plus postage
• Toiletries: €1-5 per item
• Laundry: €10-15 per load if needed

Entrance fees

• Villa Rufolo in Ravello: €7
• Villa Cimbrone in Ravello: €7
• Duomo in Amalfi: €3
• Museo della Carta (paper museum) in Amalfi: €4
• Grotta dello Smeraldo (Emerald Grotto) near Amalfi: €5 + €5 boat transfer
• Chiostro del Paradiso in Amalfi: €3
• Chiesa di San Salvatore de' Birecto in Atrani: €3
• Museo Correale in Sorrento: €8
• Marina Grande beach chair rental in Positano: €12-15
• Capri boat tour to the Blue Grotto: €20-30
• Monte Solaro chairlift in Anacapri: €10 round-trip

Tips

• Trekking guide: €30-50 per person for the week
• Drivers: €1-2 per person per day
• Hotel porters: €1-2 per bag
• Restaurant servers: 10-15% of the bill if service not included

Of course, your actual expenses will depend on your personal preferences and spending habits. It's always a good idea to have some extra cash on hand for unexpected costs or splurges.

We recommend budgeting at least €300-500 per person for the week, not including souvenirs or big-ticket items. ATMs are widely available in most towns, but it's wise to carry some backup cash in case of technical issues.

Remember, many places in Italy don't accept credit cards for small purchases.

Staying connected with family and friends back home is important for many travelers. Here's what you need to know about phone and internet access on the Amalfi Coast Trek:

Mobile phone service

• Most major US and European mobile phone carriers have partnerships with Italian providers like TIM, Vodafone, and Wind Tre, so your phone should work in Italy if you have an international roaming plan.
• Coverage on the Amalfi Coast is generally good in towns and villages, but may be spotty or nonexistent on some remote stretches of the trail.
• If you don't have an international plan, you can buy a prepaid Italian SIM card upon arrival and use it in an unlocked phone. Popular providers sell SIMs at the airport, train stations, and tobacco shops (tabaccherie).

Wi-Fi

• All the hotels we use on the Amalfi Coast Trek offer free Wi-Fi for guests, though the speed and reliability may vary.
• Many cafes, restaurants, and public spaces also have Wi-Fi hotspots, either for free or for a small fee.
• To access public Wi-Fi, you may need to register with your name and email address, or get a password from the establishment.
• Don't count on having Wi-Fi access during the hiking day, as many of the trails are remote and far from towns.

Communicating with your guide

• Your guide will have a local mobile phone and can be reached in case of emergency or if you need assistance during the trek.
• The guide will also have the numbers for local taxi services, bus schedules, and other useful contacts.
• In the rare event of a serious emergency, the guide will contact local authorities and our office staff, who will then relay information to your designated emergency contact back home.

As a visitor to the Amalfi Coast, it's important to practice responsible tourism to help preserve the region's natural beauty, cultural heritage, and local communities. Here are some tips:

Environmental responsibility

• Stay on marked trails to avoid damaging vegetation and causing erosion.
• Don't pick wildflowers, disturb wildlife, or take rocks or artifacts as souvenirs.
• Carry out all your rubbish, including food waste and toilet paper. Don't leave anything behind on the trail.
• Bring a reusable water bottle and fill it up at fountains or taps to reduce plastic waste.
• Turn off lights and air conditioning when you leave your hotel room to conserve energy.
• Take short showers instead of baths to save water, which can be scarce in the summer months.
• Choose eco-friendly sunscreen and insect repellent to avoid harming marine life when swimming.

Cultural responsibility

• Learn a few words of Italian and use them when interacting with locals. Even a simple "grazie" or "buongiorno" is appreciated.
• Ask permission before taking photos of people, especially children or elderly individuals.
• Support local artisans by buying authentic handicrafts instead of cheap, mass-produced souvenirs.
• Attend local festivals or events to learn more about the region's cultural traditions.
• Be respectful of local customs and beliefs, even if they differ from your own.

Economic responsibility

• Stay in locally-owned accommodations instead of international chain hotels.
• Eat at family-run restaurants and cafes that use seasonal, locally-sourced ingredients.
• Buy snacks and picnic supplies from small independent shops rather than supermarkets.
• Tip fairly for good service, as many workers in the tourism industry rely on gratuities to supplement their wages.

Social responsibility

• Be patient and courteous when interacting with locals, especially those who don't speak fluent English.

While you don't need to be fluent in Italian to enjoy your Amalfi Coast Trek, learning a few key phrases can help you communicate with locals and show respect for their language and culture. Here are some common expressions to get you started:

Greetings and pleasantries

• Ciao - Hello/Goodbye (informal)
• Buongiorno - Good morning/Good day (formal)
• Buonasera - Good evening (formal)
• Buonanotte - Goodnight
• Arrivederci - Goodbye (formal)
• Per favore - Please
• Grazie - Thank you
• Prego - You're welcome
• Mi scusi - Excuse me
• Permesso - Pardon me (to pass by)
• Mi chiamo... - My name is...
• Come sta? - How are you? (formal)
• Come stai? - How are you? (informal)

Dining and shopping

• Il conto, per favore - The check, please
• Acqua naturale/frizzante - Still/sparkling water
• Vino bianco/rosso - White/red wine
• Caffè - Espresso
• Cappuccino - Cappuccino (only in the morning)
• Il bagno - The bathroom
• Permesso, dov'è...? - Pardon me, where is...?
• Questo - This
• Quello - That
• Quanto costa? - How much does it cost?
• Troppo caro - Too expensive
• Bancomat/Carta di credito - ATM/Credit card

Hiking and directions

• Sentiero - Trail
• Salita - Uphill/Ascent
• Discesa - Downhill/Descent
• Sinistra - Left
• Destra - Right
• Dritto - Straight ahead
• Dove? - Where?
• Lontano - Far
• Vicino - Near
• Quando? - When?
• A che ora? - At what time?
• Che ore sono? - What time is it?
• Non capisco - I don't understand
• Non parlo italiano - I don't speak Italian
• Parla inglese? - Do you speak English?

Emergencies and health

• Aiuto! - Help!
• Chiami la polizia - Call the police
• Chiami un'ambulanza - Call an ambulance
• Dov'è l'ospedale più vicino? - Where is the nearest hospital?
• Dov'è la farmacia più vicina? - Where is the nearest pharmacy?
• Mi fa male... - My ... hurts (lo stomaco - stomach, la testa - head, la gamba - leg, etc.)
• Ho bisogno di un dottore - I need a doctor
• Sono allergico a... - I'm allergic to...

Don't worry about having perfect pronunciation or grammar - the locals will appreciate your efforts to speak their language, even if you make mistakes. With a smile and a few key phrases, you'll be able to navigate most common situations and make meaningful connections with the people you meet along the way.

While we do everything we can to ensure a smooth and safe trekking experience, unexpected issues can arise. Here's what to do if you encounter a problem or emergency during your Amalfi Coast Trek:

Minor issues

• If you have a minor problem like a blister, upset stomach, or lost item, inform your guide as soon as possible. They are trained to handle common trekking ailments and can provide first aid supplies, medication, or advice.
• If you need to buy something like toiletries, snacks, or gear, your guide can point you to the nearest store or pharmacy.
• If you have a question about the itinerary, accommodations, or logistics, ask your guide or the hotel staff. They are knowledgeable about the local area and can provide helpful information.

Serious medical issues

• If you have a serious medical issue like a sprained ankle, severe allergic reaction, or chest pain, alert your guide immediately. They are trained in wilderness first aid and can assess the situation and provide initial treatment.
• If necessary, your guide will contact local emergency services and arrange for evacuation or transport to the nearest hospital or clinic. They will also notify our office staff, who will keep your designated emergency contact informed.
• Make sure you have adequate travel insurance that covers medical emergencies, hospitalisation, and evacuation. Carry your insurance card and a copy of your policy with you at all times.

Remember, your guide and our office staff are here to support you throughout your journey. Don't hesitate to reach out if you have any concerns or issues, big or small.

In case of emergency, important numbers to know are:

• European emergency number: 112
• Ambulance: 118
• Police (Carabinieri): 112

By staying informed, alert, and proactive, you can minimise the risk of problems and focus on enjoying your incredible Amalfi Coast adventure. Remember, your safety and well-being are our top priorities, and we are here to support you every step of the way.

We value your feedback and use it to improve our trekking experiences for future travelers. Here are some ways you can share your thoughts and suggestions after your Amalfi Coast Trek:

Online reviews

• If you had a positive experience, we would be grateful if you could leave a review on Reviews.io. We will send you a link when your trip has finished. This helps other travelers find us and make informed decisions about their own trips.
• When writing a review, please be specific about what you liked and why you would recommend us. Personal stories and details are always appreciated and we love to see your photos in reviews too!

Social media

• If you post photos or stories from your Amalfi Coast Trek on social media, please tag us or use our hashtag so we can see and share your content.
• We love seeing your amazing photos and hearing about your favourite moments from the trek. With your permission, we may feature your content on our own social media channels or website.
• If you have any questions or comments after your trip, feel free to reach out to us via social media. We will do our best to respond in a timely and helpful manner.

Direct feedback

• If you have specific feedback or suggestions that you'd prefer to share privately, please email or call our office directly.