Secure your adventure on the Inca Trail 2026 with Salkantay Trekking. Book today and choose the perfect date for you. Don’t miss this opportunity!
Secure your spot on the Inca Trail 2026. Book today and don’t miss the chance!
Inca Trail Availability

Inca Trail Permits Availability 2026

Planning your trip to Peru? Everything you need to know is right here. Spaces for the Inca Trail are strictly limited and sell out months in advance.

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When Should You Book the Inca Trail?

Inca Trail permits are the starting point for planning this experience. Without this ticket, you cannot access the trail, even if you already have flights, hotels, or a scheduled vacation. Only 500 spots are allowed each day, but around 200 are for travelers; the rest are for the team accompanying the trek, such as guides, porters, and cooks.

That’s why booking in advance is key, especially if you want to travel during the dry season, when demand is highest. The Inca Trail is one of the most sought-after treks in the world, and the most popular dates can sell out several months in advance.

So, how far in advance should you book? It’s recommended to do so at least 5 months ahead of time if you plan to travel during peak season. However, availability can vary each year, so it’s best to check dates as far in advance as possible and secure your permit before organizing the rest of your trip.

Don’t let your ideal date sell out. Check availability for the Inca Trail and start planning your adventure to Machu Picchu with our team.

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Your safety is our top priority

Explore the Inca Trail with confidence

On every trek, our guides carry satellite phones, pulse oximeters, and essential equipment to monitor your well-being throughout the hike. In addition, they receive first aid and emergency response training through WAFA to ensure your safety at every stage of the Inca Trail.

Trekking

The Classic Inca Trail to Machu Picchu

The world-famous Inca Trail to Machu Picchu is one of the best trekking routes in South America. Walk in the footsteps of our Inca nobility ancestors to their incredible Inca fortress, Machu Picchu, and dare to discover their secrets.

Difficulty Moderate
Duration 4 days / 3 nights
Group Size Up to 16 people per group
Location Cusco, Peru
Starting from
US$ 870 per person
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The Classic Inca Trail to Machu Picchu

Check Inca Trail Availability by Month

Don’t let your ideal date sell out. Check the availability of the Inca Trail and start planning your adventure to Machu Picchu with our team.

Select your preferred month and check current availability for the Inca Trail. Permits are limited, and availability can change quickly, especially during peak season. If you find a date that fits your trip, contact our team to confirm availability and start planning your trek to Machu Picchu.

No availabilityPartial availability80%+ available

Choose Your Ideal Inca Trail to Machu Picchu

Explore with Confidence

There’s more than one way to experience the Inca Trail. That’s why we’ve prepared different options so you can choose the experience that best fits your schedule, travel style, and level of adventure.

Each itinerary is designed to let you explore the best of this historic route: Andean landscapes, ancient Inca trails, archaeological sites, local culture, and the unforgettable arrival at Machu Picchu. All our tours include the necessary permits and are carefully organized to provide you with a safe, authentic, and well-planned experience from start to finish.

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Combine the Inca Trail with Other Legendary Routes

If you dream of hiking the Inca Trail but also want to experience other iconic routes in Cusco, our combined tours are for you. These options bring together the best of the Inca Trail with routes like Salkantay or other alternative trails to Machu Picchu.

These itineraries are ideal for travelers seeking a more comprehensive experience, featuring a greater variety of landscapes, Andean culture, mountains, local communities, and archaeological sites. This way, you don’t have to choose just one route: you can enjoy two amazing experiences in a single trip, with all permits, logistics, and guides arranged by our team.


Salkantay Trekking team at Machu Picchu

Why book with Salkantay Trekking?

Salkantay Trekking is a team based entirely in Cusco, specializing in creating authentic experiences to Machu Picchu and Peru’s most breathtaking destinations. Today, we are recognized as one of the country’s leading tour operators, backed by international awards and the trust of thousands of travelers.

Salkantay Trekking is a team based entirely in Cusco, specializing in creating authentic experiences to Machu Picchu and Peru’s most breathtaking destinations. Today, we are recognized as one of the country’s leading tour operators, backed by international awards and the trust of thousands of travelers.

  • 100% Cusco-based team

    We are a local operator, born in Cusco and deeply connected to our culture, history, and mountains.

  • International Awards

    We have been recognized at the World Travel Awards as one of the leading tour operators in Peru and South America.

  • Inca Trail Specialists

    We design authentic experiences on one of the world’s most iconic routes, respecting its history and natural essence.

  • Safety and Organization

    Every stage of the trek is carefully planned to provide you with a safe, seamless, and well-guided experience.

  • Expert Local Guides

    Our guides share the history, culture, and magic of the Inca Trail from an authentic and personal perspective.

  • Excellent Food Along the Way

    Our chefs are trained to provide high-quality meals, even in remote mountain areas.



Inca Trail map and 4-day itinerary detail

Exploring the Inca Trail is much easier when you have a clear picture of the route. This map was created based on the real-life experience of a hiker who completed the trek with Salkantay Trekking, compiling key information about the sections, campsites, elevations, and most iconic sites along the trail to Machu Picchu.

Day 1

Cusco | Piscacucho (KM 82) - Canabamba - Llactapata - Huayllabamba - Ayapata

Distance Approx. 8.7 miles / 14 km
Elevation 10,827 ft / 3,300 m
Difficulty Moderate day.
Day 2

Ayapata | Dead Woman's Pass - Pacaymayu – Runkurakay Pass – Sayaqmarka - Chaquiqocha

Distance Approx. 9.94 miles / 16 km
Elevation 13,829 ft / 4,215 m
Difficulty Challenging day.
Day 3

Chaquiqocha | Phuyupatamarka - Intipata - Wiñay Wayna

Distance Approx. 5.59 miles / 9 km
Elevation 11,975 ft / 3,650 m
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 8,924 ft / 2,720 m
Difficulty Moderate day.
Inca Trail to Machu Picchu Map
Inca Trail to Machu Picchu Map

Inca Trail Video: Route, Landscapes, and Experience

Discover in these videos what it’s like to experience the Inca Trail, one of the world’s most famous trekking routes. Spanning approximately 44 kilometers, this trail combines mountains, cloud forests, ancient archaeological sites, and unforgettable views before reaching Machu Picchu.

Over the course of a 4-day hike, each section reveals a different aspect of Andean history and nature. More than just a route, the Inca Trail is an experience that connects landscape, culture, and adventure on one of Peru’s most iconic journeys.

Inca Trail FAQs

Do you have questions about the Inca Trail? We’ve compiled the most common questions from travelers to help you plan your trek with greater confidence and peace of mind.

Do I need a permit to hike the Inca Trail?

Yes, an official permit issued by the Peruvian government is required. It can only be obtained through an authorized agency, as independent hiking is not allowed.

How much does an Inca Trail permit cost in 2026?

Permits are not sold separately but as part of a tour package. Prices typically range from $600 to $1,000+ USD depending on service level, operator, campsites, and included extras.

How quickly do Inca Trail permits sell out?

Very quickly. For peak season (May to August), permits can sell out within hours or days after release in October. During lower demand months, they may last a few weeks.

How far in advance should I book the Inca Trail?

It is recommended to book at least 3 to 6 months in advance. Peak season permits (May to September) often sell out within days.

Which is harder, Kilimanjaro or the Inca Trail?

Mount Kilimanjaro is more demanding due to higher altitude and longer duration. The Inca Trail is shorter but still challenging due to steep climbs and altitude.

Can a beginner hike the Inca Trail?

Yes, beginners can do it with good physical condition. The trail is moderately difficult but requires proper acclimatization and basic preparation.

Is the Inca Trail worth it?

Yes — it is considered one of the best hikes in the world, combining ancient Inca history, stunning Andean landscapes, and the unique experience of entering Machu Picchu through the Sun Gate.

Is there Wi-Fi on the Inca Trail?

No. Internet access is only available in Aguas Calientes.

Can I charge my devices during the trek?

No. There are no charging points. Bringing a portable battery is recommended.

Are there bathrooms on the Inca Trail?

Yes. We provide portable toilets, and there are basic facilities at campsites.

Can I rent horses during the trek?

No. Horses are not allowed on the Inca Trail.

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