Check permits and plan your Inca Trail adventure to Machu Picchu.
The Inca Trail is one of Peru’s most famous hiking routes, leading to the legendary Machu Picchu archaeological site. Because of its popularity, access is regulated by official permits issued by the Peruvian government.
Availability is limited and permits can sell out quickly.
The Inca Trail is a highly regulated route. Only a limited number of permits are issued each day, and these spaces include hikers, licensed guides, cooks and porters. For this reason, early booking is essential.
Permits are especially difficult to obtain during the high season from May to September. Travelers planning to hike the classic 4-day Inca Trail should book well in advance through a licensed tour operator.
Permits are non-transferable and non-refundable. To obtain one, travelers must provide personal information such as passport number and date of birth.
Key points about Inca Trail permits.
Before choosing your travel date, it is important to understand how availability works and why permits must be secured in advance.
Closed in February
The Inca Trail is closed every February for maintenance, conservation and route preparation.
500 Daily Permits
Only 500 permits are issued per day, including hikers, trekking staff, guides, cooks and porters.
Book Early
Permits can sell out quickly, especially during peak season from May to September.
Licensed Operator Required
Travelers can only hike the Inca Trail with an authorized and licensed tour operator.
Personal Information Needed
Passport number, date of birth and passenger details are required to process the official permit.
Non-transferable Permits
Inca Trail permits cannot be transferred to another person and are non-refundable once issued.
Follow these steps to start your booking.
To secure your Inca Trail permit, you must first confirm your tour booking. Once your details and payment are submitted, our sales department will review your request and send you a reservation confirmation by email.
Start Your InquiryCheck availability
Check the permit availability for your preferred travel date and select the service that best matches your plan.
Fill in passenger information
Provide your full personal details and select the number of passengers for your Inca Trail trip.
Add optional services
You may request extra services such as Huayna Picchu tickets, Machu Picchu Mountain tickets or train ticket upgrades.
Review service policies
Before submitting your request, review and accept the service policies related to your booking.
Submit payment
After submitting the form, you will have the option to pay a deposit of USD $200 per person.
Receive confirmation
Our sales department will send you an email confirming your reservation after your booking request is processed.
The earlier you book, the better your chance of getting your preferred date.
The high tourist season in Cusco starts in May and ends in September. During these months, Inca Trail permits are in very high demand, so it is recommended to book 6 or 7 months in advance.
The low season runs from October to April, when there are usually more opportunities to find availability. Even then, travelers should book 4 or 5 months in advance.
Pack light and prepare for changing weather.
For the Inca Trail, it is important to travel light, protect your belongings from rain and carry emergency money for small purchases along the route.
Light Packing
If you hire an extra porter, we recommend keeping your luggage under 5 kg / 10 lb, including personal clothing and sleeping bag.
Rain Protection
The weather on the Inca Trail can change at any time. Use a good cover or plastic bags to protect clothes and personal equipment.
Extra Money
Carry at least 200–300 soles for emergencies, snacks, water, chocolate or small purchases from local markets along the route.
Inca Trail availability questions.
Here are some of the most common questions travelers ask before booking the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu.
Send us your request and preferred travel date.
Complete the inquiry form with your name, email and message. Our team will assist you with availability, booking details and the next steps to secure your Inca Trail permit.
For a faster response, include your preferred start date, number of travelers, passport details if available and whether you are interested in extra services such as Huayna Picchu, Machu Picchu Mountain or train upgrades.
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Ready to secure your Inca Trail permit?
Contact our team with your preferred travel date and passenger details. We will help you review availability and guide you through the booking process.