The fundamental rule for planning the Inca Trail in 2026 is to understand its strict and limited availability: only 500 permits are issued each day, a number that must be shared among travelers and all their support staff, like guides, cooks and porters. This strict control seeks to preserve a small but iconic section of the monumental Qhapaq Ñan network, a road system that at its peak stretched for almost 60,000 kilometers to connect the territories of six current countries.
However, these logistics are nothing compared to the unmatched satisfaction of reaching Machu Picchu on foot. That is why the Inca Trail has become so popular. Its combination of a monumental historical legacy and a transformative experience is the direct cause of the very high worldwide demand.
When the limited permits face the immense desire of thousands of travelers, the result is a race to secure a space long before even packing. Understanding this dynamic is the first step of planning. Below, we will guide you through everything you need to know to navigate this process.
Important Note: As you can see, the main problem is not "how to get a permit for the Inca Trail", but rather "when to book it"; because if you do not book your tickets in advance, you will have to reach Machu Picchu by train.
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Reservation 2025 | Inca Trail 2026 | Schedule | Available Spaces | |
It has long been a popular destination for trekkers wishing to follow in the footsteps of Hiram Bingham and take the original route to Machu Picchu. The earliest version of the trail followed the Vilcanota River and was known as the 'Piso Valle' section of the Inca Trail. Along this lower route, trekkers could explore many forgotten Inca ruins and archaeological sites.
Over time, however, the trail was modified to climb into the mountains, passing through high points such as Warmiwañusca and Sayacmarca. This new version of the trail revealed additional Inca sites, including Pacaymayu, Runkurakay, Phuyupatamarca and Wiñaywayna, before reaching Machu Picchu via the famous Inti Punku (Sun Gate). You will also walk on original Inca paths and through ancient tunnels along the way.
This route is the most popular because it offers the most comprehensive experience: over the course of four days, you will hike through stunning natural landscapes and explore mysterious Inca sites, accompanied by an Inca Trail guide, a trekking chef and porters.
It is the most iconic and enigmatic route to Machu Picchu. It is unique, combining breathtaking scenery with the history and culture of the Inca civilisation. Strict regulations help to preserve this historic trail, ensuring that it is protected for future generations.
Places on the Inca Trail are limited each year, so it is very important to book well in advance.
The choice between the Classic 4 day route and the Short 2 day route depends mainly on the available time and the level of physical demand the traveler is looking for. Both routes operate with different permit systems and it is essential to understand their characteristics to make the right decision.
This is the most popular and requested route worldwide. For this trek, a total of 500 daily permits are available. It is crucial to understand that this number is not just for hikers; it also includes all the mandatory staff such as guides, cooks, and porters. This reduces the actual availability for travelers to about 200 spots per day. Due to the very high demand, these permits sell out months in advance, so booking in advance is essential. It is important to clarify that these permits are exclusive to the Inca Trail network and are not shared with alternative routes like the Salkantay trek.
This option is ideal for travelers with a tight itinerary or for those who want to experience the essence of the Inca Trail without the challenge of a multi-day hike. The 2-day route allows you to visit the archaeological sites of the final part of the trail, such as Wiñaywayna, and enter Machu Picchu through the Sun Gate (Inti Punku). For this version, there is a separate quota of daily permits. Although the demand is lower than for the classic route, it is still necessary to book in advance, as they are also limited and cover both the hikers and the guide who accompanies them.
It depends on how much vacation time you have and the kind of experience you're looking for. There are many trails that lead to Machu Picchu, but only one Inca Trail. Whether you choose the short or classic version, it will be a once-in-a-lifetime experience!
Discover the diversity of the Inca Trail with its five unique versions
The Salkantay to Inca Trail involves the best experience hike to Machu Picchu.
This tour is a most complete hike to the lost city of the Incas. From the first to the third day, you will hike to Humantay Lake, observe the sacred mountain of Salkantay, and discover the most beautiful scenic trail without a lot of trekkers. Continue the hike to connect with the Classic Inca Trail. We will start from Huayllabamba and hike to Machu Picchu for 4 days.
Salkantay to Inca Trail Book Now!
This Inca Trail 4 days is the most popular hike in Peru and the top hike to Machu Picchu. Usually, we recommend you book this trip in advance, there is limited availability.
Apart from the fact that the Inca Trail is a popular route to Machu Picchu. This Machu Picchu hike is the most requested trail among all trekkers. The Inca Trail is known for the changing weather from desert to jungle. Also there you will appreciate the flora and fauna of the trail and the Inca ruins. The most important Inca sites are Phuyupatamarca and Wiñaywayna. Arrive at Machu Picchu through to sun gate or Intipunku
The 3 day Inca Trail Intrepid is a short version of the Classic Inca Trail. Inca Trail Machu created this alternative hike for all travelers who have no time to visit Peru.
The Inca Trail challenge is the best trek option for you! This trail involves 3-day hiking to Machu Picchu for the Classic Inca Trail. This is a challenging trail, yet it's the best alternative to arrive at Machu Picchu in a short time, enter by the Sun gate (Intipunku), and be dazzled by the lost city of the Incas. Book this hike and accept the challenge!
Inca Trail Machu will provide all camping equipment for you such as a sleeping bag, hiking poles, air mattress, and others. Don't worry, you don't need to rent extra equipment, also we will provide personal porters for your personal belongings
There are two ways to hike the 2 day Inca Trail: the most popular option is the Short Inca Trail, and the other is the 2-Day Inca Trail camping. Choose the best hiking option for your trek to Machu Picchu.
RELATED: WHERE DOES THE INCA TRAIL START?
The only way to do the 4 day Inca Trail hike to Machu Picchu is to hire the services of a travel agency authorized by the Ministry of Culture of Peru. Booking is only possible via the Internet. These agencies organize and offer their services in various qualities. For this reason, prices vary from agency to agency.
The price usually includes entry to the Inca Trail and Machu Picchu, transport by bus, train (standard class), meals, professional guides, trekking chef, Super porters (to carry equipment) and camping equipment.
Also Its included better tents, and other equipment, better train transport or an extra porter, you don´t have to pay an additional price.
Do you like to visit Huayna Picchu after the Inca Trail in Peru? Additional costs are approximately USD 80 per person.
Are four days of walking on the Inca Trail too much? The Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu is a choice for people with a lack of time. This route starts the walk from the middle of the classic route. Prices vary from travel agency to travel agency.
The price commonly includes permits of the Inca Trail and Machu Picchu tickets, meals, train roud trip to Machu Picchu, transport by bus and professional tour guide.
If you want to have more experience in your adventure hike to machu Picchu. We recommend you Inca Trail camping tour. Our short Inca Trail package includes a professional tour guide, trekking chef, porters, and other essential services. Contact us to make your booking for the Inca Trail!
Entrance fee to Huayna Picchu/Machu Picchu Mountain is not included. You can request it by paying an extra amount of money.
It is not possible to enter the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu unless it is through an authorized tour operator. We have many years of experience in operating the Inca Trail. If you want to book a place, contact us.
If you want to make the booking with us. we will require the following information:
First Name:
Last Name:
Passport Number:
Nationality:
Date of birthday:
Important Note: You can fill out all information in our booking form, which you find on our website or our staff will send you an email with this link booking.
We will need you to send us a copy of your passport to complete the details from your passport in the Inca trail booking system and obtain a permit to enter the trail. Permits are non-transferable and do not allow you to change the date! Before you can start the Inca Trail, your passport will be verified with your booking details so that no mistakes can be made!
You must bring the passport with which you made your reservation. If you have changed your passport after booking, you must bring both passports with you. Contact us and confirm the date you want to travel on the Inca Trail. Also, let us know in case you want an Inca Trail as part of a package when visiting Cusco.
If there is a discrepancy between your passport and your Inca Trail permit, you will not be allowed to start the trek; so there must be no errors in the booking process! Once we confirm your permit, it is not possible to revoke, change or transfer the Inca Trail permit to someone else!
Booking a permit for the Inca Trail is easy and secure. You should only seek availability through an authorized travel agent. Payment should be made through a secure payment gateway (see a lock in front of the website in the search bar) using a credit or debit card (Visa, MasterCard, etc.).
There are many hikes that can be a great alternative if you have not booked a permit to walk on the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu. Salkantay Trail Peru and Lares are some of them. The next, Ausangate Trek does not end directly at Machu Picchu but offers you the opportunity to see it and visit the holiest and highest mountain in the Cusco region - Ausantate (or Apu Ausangate). However, if the Inca citadel is your main destination, you can also book Machu Picchu tickets beforehand.
The main season on the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu is from May to September and coincides with a holiday season in the Western Hemisphere. These months probably offer the best trekking conditions with a dry and sunny climate. However, as we said before, you should book a permit for it many months in advance.
April, October and November are also great months to perform the Inca Trail. There are fewer tourists, although it is likely that it rains at least one day during the trek. It is also easier to find available permits, although you still need to book them months beforehand.
The rainy season lasts from January to March, and if you decide to come during this time, expect rain. However, it is perfectly safe to walk with equipment - waterproof and adequate. Again, it is much easier to get a permit to travel on the Inca Trail at this time of year.
The Inca Trail closes the month of Februaryevery year because it is the rainiest month, and is used for maintenance to protect the trails. During this month, however, all alternative routes to Machu Picchu are open!
Children accustomed to trekking can perform the Inca Trail, although we personally believe that in order to enjoy such a route, they should be at least 12 years old. However, we witnessed smaller children who completed the trail! If you want to make an Inca Trail as a family, contact us and discuss the physical condition of your children in more detail.
RELATED INFORMATION: TRAVEL INSURANCE FOR INCA TRAIL
It is recommended that you have a good level of fitness, but you do not have to be a fan of the exercise. If you are not in shape, it would be good to start with regular walking (uphill) a few months before this adventure.
Altitude is one of the biggest challenges of trekking in Peru; the highest step of the Inca Trail is at 4,125 metres at the Dead Woman's Pass. To help you acclimatize and avoid the symptoms of altitude sickness, we advise the following:
Hiking the Inca Trail is considered one of the best trek in the world, and if you want to enjoy it, do not look at it as a race. "Go at your own pace", enjoy the views, take photos and catch your breath. Even the most comfortable trekkers reach camping areas before nightfall.
Please note: A guide always goes with the last person in the group and instructs the fastest hikers to know where there are stops and meeting points on the route!
Due to the high demand, it is possible to book the trail only online and in advance. However, once you are in Cusco, Alternative Treks to Machu Picchu are possible!
No, unfortunately, once your reservation is confirmed, we can not change your trekking date or reimburse your permit! Therefore, you should be really sure of the dates when you book the trail.
+51 84 217 551
+51 997 434 941
Av Tupac Amaru PP-10B, Santiago, Cusco, Peru 
info@incatrailmachu.com
www.incatrailmachu.com
