WhatsApp
Inca Trail Availability & Permits 2026!
Countdown to the Inca Trail 2026!
Official permits will be available starting October 1st. Secure your spot with us today!
Book in advance, and we’ll guarantee your spaces as soon as sales open.
Permit Release Dates:
- January 2026 → October 1st
- March 2026 → October 2nd
- April 2026 → October 3rd
- May 2026 → October 6th
- June 2026 → October 7th
- July 2026 → October 9th
- August – December 2026 → October 10th
What to Do Now?:
- Reserve before sales open to secure your preferred date.
- Have questions? Contact us and get all the details you need for your dream adventure.
Don’t miss the chance to live this unforgettable experience: The Inca Trail 2026 is waiting for you!
Check the Inca Trail Availability 2026
The Inca Trail is one of the most popular treks in the world, and as such, availability is limited. If you are planning to hike the Inca Trail, it is important to book your trip well in advance. The availability of the Inca Trail is affected by a number of factors, including the time of year, the number of people in your group, and the number of spaces regulated by the Peruvian state.
In 2026, 500 trekking permits will be issued per day to hike the Inca Trail. Permits are also required for travel equipment, such as porters, cooks, and guides, so it is essential to book the Inca Trail in advance. Given that there are multiple requirements to be met, it is recommended that you book approximately 6 months in advance to ensure your entry to the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu.
The best time to hike the Inca Trail is the dry season, which runs from May to October. It is also the busiest time of the year, so it is important to book your trip as far in advance as possible.
Don't wait until next year: book now to ensure you get your preferred start date and begin your next adventure.
WHY CHOOSE US?
Salkantay Trekking is the number one tour operator for treks and tours to Machu Picchu and all-around Peru. Located in Cusco, Peru, we pride ourselves on our dedication to our clients, creating unique adventures and tailor-made tours all led by the most professional guides. We are lucky to have the best clients, who love to share about their experiences and have helped us maintain the number 1 spot on TripAdvisor for 5 years with more than double the amount of positive experiences than any other company.
2025
Classic Inca Trail 4 Days
Dead Woman’s Pass, Sayaqmarka, Phuyupatamarka, Wiñay Wayna, Sun Gate, Machu PicchuThe world-famous Inca Trail to Machu Picchu is one of the best hiking trails in South America. Follow in the footsteps of our Inca ancestors to their incredible fortresses and discover their secrets.
2025
Inca Trail Short 2 Days
KM 104 - Chachabamba - Wiñaywayna - Sun Gate - Machu PicchuThe best of the Inca Trail in two days. You will visit archaeological sites such as the impressive Wiñay Wayna and continue on to Machu Picchu.
2025
Salkantay & Short Inca Trail 6 Days
Humantay Lake, Sky Camp, Wiñay Wayna, Sun Gate, Machu PicchuIt is one of the best routes you should take at least once in your life. This program will take you out of your routine and transport you to wonderful places that only the Peruvian Andes have to offer.
2025
Salkantay & Inca Trail Trek 7 Days
Humantay Lake, Death Woman’s Pass, Wiñay Wayna, Machu PicchuCan't decide between the Salkantay Trail and the Inca Trail? Don't worry. Our tour combines both routes to Machu Picchu in one incredible trip. Both routes are ranked among the 25 best in the world by National Geographic.
2025
Inca Trail One Day Tour
KM 104 - Chachabamba - Wiñay Wayna - Sun Gate - Machu Picchu - Aguas CalientesExperience the magic of the Inca Trail in just one day, ending with an unforgettable entrance to Machu Picchu through the Sun Gate.
2025
Private Inca Trail 4 Days
Dead Woman’s Pass - Runcuracay - Sayacmarca - Phuyupatamarca - Wiñay Wayna - Sun Gate - Machu PicchuWant to explore Peru's best route at your own pace and with your own group? Our private Inca Trail tour is perfect for you. This adventure to Machu Picchu will transform your trip.
2025
Lares Trek & Inca Trail 5 Days
Lares Hot Springs - Salt Mines of Maras - Wiñay Wayna - Sun Gate - Machu PicchuEscape the crowds and embark on an epic journey combining the Lares Trail with the Inca Trail to one of the world's most famous wonders: Machu Picchu.
2025
Ancascocha & Inca Trail Trek 5 Days
Ancascocha - Huayanay Pass - Wiñay Wayna - Sun Gate - Machu PicchuThis fantastic trip combines two of Peru's most impressive trails. You will enjoy the best of both on an unusual route: the Ancascocha trek and the short 2-day Inca Trail.
CHECK THE AVAILABILITY OF THE INCA TRAIL 2026 IN ANY OF ITS OPTIONS (FROM 1 TO 7 DAYS OF HIKING)
The Availability mentioned below is for all Inca trail treks to Machu Picchu, you can choose the best date that fits in your traveling schedule since we have daily departures, we only need two people as a minimum to depart and if you are single traveler contact us and we will be able to accommodate you with one of our set groups.
HOW DO I BOOK MY INCA TRAIL TREK?
- Step 1: Check availability on the calendar below and click the “Book Now” button to get started.
- Step 2: Fill in your personal details and select the type of service and number of passengers for your trip.
- Step 3: You can also add additional services such as Huayna Picchu tickets, Machu Picchu Mountain tickets, and the option to upgrade your train tickets.
- Step 4: Review and accept our service policies before submitting the form; after submitting the form, you will have the option to pay $200 USD per person via PayPal.
- Step 5: Our sales department will email you confirming your reservation after you have made it.
CHECK INCA TRAIL AVAILABILITY
Ensure the Peruvian government still has permits available for your intended start date.
CHECK WITH US
Confirm Inca trail availability with our sales team via chat, email, or phone that your start date is available.
FINALIZE EARLY
Permits sell out months in advance; book early! Reservations based on Inca Trail availability are now open.
In these videos, we’ll be taking a look at one of the most popular hiking trails in the world – the Inca Trail! The Inca Trail is a world-famous hiking trail that leads to the lost city of Machu Picchu in Peru. The trail is about 44 kilometers/27.3 miles long, and it takes four days to hike from start to finish.
If you’re planning on hiking the Inca Trail, it’s important to have a good map. There are plenty of resources available online and in stores, but we’ve found that the best way to get a feel for the trail is to use an Inca Trail hikers map. This map was created by an Salkantay Trekking hiker who has completed the trail and provides detailed information on the different sections of the trail. It also includes recommendations on where to stop along the way and what to see.
Inca Trail to Machu Picchu Map
We’ve detailed our own Inca Trail plan below, and this is the type of itinerary you may expect (note that this only applies to the days spent hiking, not the days spent traveling to/from Cusco and Ollantaytambo).
Day 1: Cusco | Piscacucho (KM 82) - Canabamba - Llactapata - Huayllabamba - Ayapata
- Distance: Approx. 8.7 miles / 14 km
- Elevation: 3,300 metres / 10.827 ft
- Difficulty: Moderate day.
Day 2: Ayapata | Dead Woman’s Pass - Pacaymayu – Runkurakay Pass – Sayaqmarka - Chaquiqocha
- Distance: Approx. 9.94 miles / 16 km
- Elevation: 4,215 metres / 13.829 ft
- Difficulty: Challenging day.
Day 3: Chaquiqocha | Phuyupatamarka - Intipata - Wiñay Wayna
- Distance: Approx. 5.59 miles / 9 km
- Elevation: 3,650 metres / 11.975 ft
- Difficulty: Moderate day.
Day 4: Wiñay Wayna - Sun Gate - Historic Sanctuary of Machu Picchu - Aguas Calientes - Cusco
- Distance: Approx. 3.11 miles / 5 km
- Elevation: 2,720 metres / 8.924 ft
- Difficulty: Moderate day.
HEALTH + SAFETY ON THE INCA TRAIL
SATELLITE PHONES
Our top goal is your safety, so we’ve invested in dependable satellite phones, which are one of the most vital instruments for any operator running treks into the Andes. This means that every guide on one of our treks will have a fully charged satellite phone, which our clients can use at any time.
Medical Procedures and First Aid
Every Salkantay Trekking guide is equipped with an oximeter and will monitor your condition as you ascend in elevation.
WHY CHOOSE SALKANTAY TREKKING?
Our Guides
Our Cooks
Our Porters
PASSPORT REQUIREMENTS
If your passport expires within 6 months, you only need to renew it before traveling to Peru. With us, you can book your ticket today and secure your Inca Trail permits and Machu Picchu tickets. Then, just update your passport details and you'll be ready to enjoy this unique experience without any worries.
INCA TRAIL FAQS FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS FOR YOUR NEXT ADVENTURE
Is the Inca Trail Worth It?
We can say that the Inca Trail is 100% worth it! It’s one of the best treks in the world, according to National Geographic and many other sources. On this amazing route, you get to:
- Retrace ancient steps along a path that’s hundreds of years old.
- Visit many archaeological sites that you only get to see on this route.
- Learn a great deal about the fascinating ancient culture of the Incas.
- Hike through some of the most beautiful landscapes in the Andean mountain range.
- Discover unique flora and fauna.
- Sleep in the arms of Mother Nature in the middle of the Andes.
- Enter Machu Picchu through the Sun Gate—only possible on this route.
- Explore one of the New Seven Wonders of the World—Machu Picchu.
Is the Inca Trail Difficult?
Salkantay Trekking rates the Inca Trail as a moderately difficult trek. This is because you’ll be hiking at high altitudes and along tough uphill climbs at some points. However, other days aren’t so challenging, which is why the overall difficulty rating is moderate.
How Far in Advance Should I Book the Inca Trail?
We recommend you book your Inca Trail place as early as possible. Most days sell out at least 3 months in advance for the low season (Nov–Mar) and then 6 months in advance for the high season (Apr–Oct).
Please note: even if you try to book well in advance, we cannot guarantee that there will be space available for the route.
Do I Need to Carry My Own Luggage on the Inca Trail?
No. You don’t need to carry your trekking backpack or the duffel bag we provide you with. We have a team of porters who carry these for you. However, they go at a much faster pace, so you’ll need to carry a small backpack with the supplies you need during the day, like water, snacks, a camera, etc
Can I Leave My Luggage at the Salkantay Trekking Office?
Yes, of course. While you go on your trek, you can leave your extra luggage with us in our office where it will be safe and secure until you return.
You can bring it with you when you attend the briefing, or you can bring it on the morning of the trek and our driver will bring it back to our offices. Speak to your guide and Salkantay representative at the briefing to organize for it to be dropped off at your hotel for your return.
Alternatively, don’t hesitate to ask your hotel if they can keep it for you. Most will have a locked storage room and this might be easier for you if you’re returning to the same one.
How Many Inca Trail Routes Are There?
There are four Inca Trail routes to choose from. These are known as:
- The Salkantay & Inca Trail (7 Days)
- The Classic Inca Trail (4 Days)
- The Two Day Inca Trail (2 Days)
- The One Day Inca Trail (1 Day)
How Many People Are Allowed on the Inca Trail Every Day?
With The Inca Trail being one of the most popular treks worldwide, you might be worried about large crowds. You don’t need to worry.
The Peruvian government wants to preserve the trail as much as possible, and they’ve put a limit to the number of trekkers who can hike each day. Only 500 people can enter the trail a day. In February, the Inca Trail is closed for cleaning and maintenance.
How Many People Will Be in My Group?
The maximum number of people in a group on our treks is 10. However, we can head out with a minimum of 2. It usually depends on the time of year and whether it’s high or low season.
How Far Do We Walk Each Day?
On average, you’ll walk around 6 or 7 hours a day along the Classic Inca Trail. If you want to take a closer look at each day in detail, you can check out the itinerary on the Salkantay Trekking website. Below is a quick overview of the distance you’ll cover each day:
- DAY 1: 14 km / 8.7 mi
- DAY 2: 16 km / 9.94 mi
- DAY 3: 9 km / 5.59 mi
- DAY 4: 5 km / 3.11 mi
Where Will We Sleep on the Inca Trail?
On the Inca Trail, we will set up tents at authorized campsites so you can rest every day.
How Much Does the Inca Trail Cost?
The cost of the Inca Trail may vary depending on who you travel with. With Salkantay Trekking, we have five options for hiking the Inca Trail. The prices per person for a group tour are as follows:
- ONE DAY INCA TRAIL — $450 USD
- SHORT INCA TRAIL 2 DAYS — $595 USD
- CLASSIC INCA TRAIL 4 DAYS — $820 USD
- PRIVATE INCA TRAIL 4 DAYS — $1600 USD
- SALKANTAY AND INCA TRAIL 6 DAYS — $1095 USD
- SALKANTAY AND INCA TRAIL 7 DAYS — $1200 USD
Can I Rent Equipment for the Inca Trail?
On all of our routes, we provide you with the accommodation—in this case tents—and a sleeping mat. But, if you need to hire other pieces of equipment, we do have some available.
Every item we use is of the highest-quality and from the best brands around. There are some pieces you can rent in advance or at the briefing. These are:
- A sleeping bag for -15°C and a sleeping bag liner.
- Thermarest luxury air mattress.
- Adjustable walking sticks.
If you already have these items, you can take them with you on your trip. Just keep in mind the weight restrictions. Remember, you can carry up to 7 kg.
How Can I Prepare Physically for the Trek?
The Inca Trail is moderately challenging and you’ll be hiking up to some high altitudes. Trekking up to Dead Woman’s Pass (4,215 m / 13,829 ft) is the most difficult part of the trek. This day you’ll also walk 16 km and for 10 hours.
For this reason, we suggest you do plenty of physical preparation to enjoy the trek as much as you can and so it doesn’t pose too many challenges. Check out these prep tips for the Inca Trail.
- Do plenty of cardiovascular exercise while you’re at home. Include lots of hikes and ensure they’re over varied terrain and a few days.
- Eat a well-balanced diet to give your body all the right nutrients and energy it needs. While you’re on the trail, we’ll be giving you highly nutritious meals.
- Make sure you get to Cusco 2–3 days before your trek begins to allow you to acclimate. Otherwise, you have a higher risk of getting altitude sickness, which could ruin your trek.
- Physical preparation is essential, and we also recommend wearing broken-in hiking boots. New boots can cause blisters and a lot of pain.
Is Water Included on the Trip?
Yes. You’ll need to take water for the first morning, but after this, we’ll give you water at every meal. The water we provide is clean and safe to consume.
We recommend bringing a refillable bottle or a Camelbak. Plastic bottles are not a good idea, as they can leave a trail of pollution, and we believe in sustainable tourism.
What Is the Food Like on the Trek?
The food is often a highlight of the trip for many hikers. Every single one of our chefs is professionally trained and they do an incredible job of cooking some delicious meals in the middle of the mountains.
We know that nutrition is essential on the trek as you’ll be putting in a lot of physical effort and need plenty of energy. For this reason, we’ve worked closely with trained chefs and expert nutritionists to put the best menu possible together for the Inca Trail.
At each meal, you’ll find an array of dishes for you to choose what you want to eat. We use fresh, local ingredients to make some traditional foods that’ll blow you away.
If you suffer from allergies or eat a special diet, just let us know at the briefing or when you book and we’ll ensure you eat as well as everyone else.
Not only do you get these outstanding meals; we also give you a cloth bag and provide you with snacks each morning. You can eat these at any stage in the day when you need an energy boost. You also get “tea time” every afternoon with plenty of drinks and snacks before dinner
You definitely won’t be going hungry when you join Salkantay Trekking on the Inca Trail.
Do I Need to Bring Extra Money for the Trek?
Yes. We always recommend you take extra money in case of an emergency. You’ll also need some in Aguas Calientes if you want to enjoy the hot springs and for your last lunch before heading back to Cusco.
Do I Need a Permit for the Inca Trail?
Yes. For the Inca Trail you need to reserve a special permit. Please note that this must be completed well in advance. The trek sells out months beforehand and there are only 500 places a day on the route.
Can I Do the Trek with Kids
Yes. If you’d like to enjoy the Inca Trail with your children, it’s definitely possible. We recommend they’re at least 8 years old and in excellent physical condition. We don’t recommend you travel with children on the trail if they aren’t accustomed to regular hiking and lots of physical exertion.
Will I Have Wifi During the Trek?
No. Along the Inca Trail, you won’t find anywhere with WiFi. The only place you’ll have internet access is if you visit a restaurant with WiFi in Aguas Calientes when you come down from Machu Picchu.
Will I Be Able to Charge My Devices During the Trek?
No. There’s nowhere to charge your electronics along the Inca Trail. We highly recommend taking a powerpack to keep your camera and/or phone charged to take some amazing photos.
Will I Have Access to Bathrooms Along the Trek?
Yes. Salkantay Trekking takes portable trekking toilets with them along the way and you’ll also find very simple and rustic bathrooms at the campsites. You’ll need to make sure you take toilet paper in case there isn’t any.
Will I Be Able to Have a Shower During the Trek?
No. Along the Inca Trail, there are no showers, so you’ll have to wait until you get back to Cusco.
Can I Rent Horses During the Trek?
No. On the Inca Trail, there isn’t the option of hiring an extra horse.
What Is the Difference Between the 1, 2, 4, 6, and 7 Day Inca Trails?
As you’ve seen, there are 4 different Inca Trails available. The one day trek just takes you on a short part of the trail for a day and then brings you back to Cusco.
On the two day trek, you’ll enjoy a short part of the Inca Trail and then spend the night in Aguas Calientes. On the second day, you visit Machu Picchu.
The four day Inca Trail is the classic option and what most trekkers opt for. You’ll be hiking along the original Inca Trail and camping each night. You’ll enter Machu Picchu from the Sun Gate and visit lots of archaeological sites along the way.
Finally, the seven day trek takes you along a part of the Salkantay Trek before you join the Inca Trail. Then, you’ll be visiting the many archaeological sites and entering Machu Picchu through the Sun Gate. You’ll also be camping every night on this trail.
When’s the Best Time of Year to Trek the Inca Trail?
The best time of year to hike the Inca Trail is April, May, September, and October. These are months when there are not many tourists; the weather is very pleasant, and you will get the best views of Machu Picchu.
Can I Join as a Solo Traveler?
Yes, you can, but only if we already have an Inca Trail group booked for that day. This is because we need a minimum of two people to open up a group tour.
What Will the Weather Be Like on the Inca Trail?
The weather in Cusco is always unpredictable. Although there are specific wet and dry seasons. It’s impossible to say exactly what weather you’ll experience on the trek.
At the highest points, it’ll be pretty cold and you’ll need plenty of warm clothes for the first night. After, you’ll be hiking into lower altitudes as you get closer to Machu Picchu and you’ll feel the climate get much warmer.
The rainy season in Peru is from the end of October to April, but there’s always the chance that it might rain—whatever the season. For this reason, we always recommend taking a rain jacket or poncho for protection.
How long is the Inca Trail?
The Classic Inca Trail to Machu Picchu is about 44 kilómetros/27,3 miles long, usually completed in 4 days and 3 nights of trekking. Each day covers different distances and levels of difficulty, from around 14 km/8,7 miles on the first day to a shorter 5 km/3,11 miles on the last stretch through the Sun Gate to Machu Picchu.
For those with less time, there are also shorter versions available, such as the 2-day Short Inca Trail and the 1-day Inca Trail, which include only part of the route but still allow you to enter Machu Picchu through the Sun Gate.
Can I hike the Inca Trail if I have dietary restrictions?
Of course! When you book with an agency for the Inca Trail, the sales team will ask about your dietary requirements (vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free). If they don't, remember to let them know in advance so they can organize everything without any problems. The cooks who accompany the route are trained to prepare varied and nutritious menus, so you won't have to worry about your food.
Are there alternatives if I can't get permits for the Inca Trail?
Yes. Cusco has several ideal trekking routes in case permits for the Inca Trail are sold out. For lovers of adventure and high mountains, the Salkantay Trek is a challenging but very rewarding alternative. If you prefer contact with local communities and Andean culture, the Lares Trek will allow you to live with the people of the Cusco highlands and discover their way of life. On the other hand, the Inka Jungle combines hiking with adventure sports such as cycling and rafting, offering a different and exciting experience. There are also other options such as Choquequirao and Huchuy Qosqo. All these routes end at Machu Picchu, making them excellent alternatives when the Inca Trail is not available.
How can I prevent altitude sickness during my hike?
To reduce the risk of altitude sickness on the trek, a widely used option is to drink coca tea, a traditional Andean infusion. You can also chew coca leaves as you walk, which is equally effective. Some people resort to medications such as Sorojchi tablets, although it is always advisable to consult a doctor before taking them. Remember to listen to your body, maintain a comfortable pace, and avoid overexerting yourself if you start to feel unwell
RELATIVE POSTS
- Essential Information for the Inca Trail
- Exploring the Wonders of the Inca Trail: A Memorable Experience
- Salkantay Trek vs Inca Trail: Which is the Best Trek to Machu Picchu?
- Inca Trail Tickets: Everything You Need to Know
- Inca Trail vs. Choquequirao Trail
- Alternatives to the Inca Trail and Salkantay
- Chefs of the Inca Trail: Flavors That Take You to Machu Picchu
- Top Tips before hiking the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu
- What to Wear for The Inca Trail?
- Inca Trail 2026: Complete Trekking Guide
- Inca Trail or Lares Trek. Which of these routes is the most suitable?
- Inca Trail: Essential Gear for an Unforgettable Adventure
- How to be prepared for the Inca Trail?
What makes these trips different?
We believe that a vacation should be more than a hotel room, a flight and a rental car. It should be more than the sum of its parts. We also believe a challenge can help you grow and a trip can stir the soul. We create journeys worth taking - for the traveler, for the host and for the world.
