Inca Trail 2026: Book Your Permits Now
Inca Trail Permits for 2026 Are Now Open: Book Now Before They’re Gone! If you’re planning to hike the classic route to Machu Picchu, the best tip is to secure your permit as early as possible, as spaces are limited each day, with only 500 available per day.
For a smoother booking process, make sure you have your passport details ready, as this information is required to confirm your entry. And don’t forget: permits are non-transferable, so double-check your travel dates before making your reservation.
How to book the Inca Trail 2026?
The first thing you have to do is make a prebook! Permits for 2026 will be officially released in October 2025, but you can prebook your trek now. Once permits become available, we’ll secure your spot immediately.
- Visit the calendar to access our booking platform.
- Pick your 2026 date on the calendar
- Select the number of participants that will be joining the adventure.
- Choose the type of tour, group or private.
- Enter passport details (non‑transferable). Be very careful, as tickets are non-transferable and non-refundable in case of errors in names or passport numbers.
- Enter contact information for one of the participants (cell phone number)
- Choose whether you want to pay for the entire tour total or the $200 initial deposit per person.
- Following, enter your Debit/Credit Card data and make the payment.
- Wait for the final manual confirmation of your Inca Trail booking from our team.
Once we reserve your permit, your spot is guaranteed.
Inca Trail 2026 permits: release date & key deadlines
The Inca Trail reservations will be open from October 1, 2025. Daily capacity is 500 permits, including guides, porters, cooks, and travelers, obviously, so visitor spots are limited. Book 6–9 months in advance for May to August (The best time to visit the Inca Trail)
Discover the Highlights of the Inca Trail in 2026
Being able to walk the same path the Incas used 500 years ago to reach Machu Picchu is priceless. The Inca Trail to Machu Picchu is a great combination of history, adventure, and natural scenery. It is located in the Peruvian Andes with a 26-mile trail. On the way, you will hike from the highlands and mountain ranges to the cloud forests where Machu Picchu is located.
Although the Inca Trail trek is not an easy one and can be somewhat tiring at times, it is very much worthwhile. The climax is on the last day, when you reach the Sun Gate, or Inti Punku, as the sun rises. This is when you will get your first glimpse of Machu Picchu in the morning light. This and other highlights can be found on this ancient trail.
- Reaching Machu Picchu through the Sun Gate (Inti Punku) at the final part: And getting the first glimpse of Machu Picchu is one of the most wonderful experiences.
- Conquer the Dead Woman's Pass: Conquer the highest pass on the Inca Trail at 13,829 feet.
- Hiking Ancient Inca Paths: You’ll be walking in the footsteps of the last Incas, following the same trails they used centuries ago to connect their vast empire.
- Stunning Natural Beauty: You will trek through mountains, Cloud forests, Valleys, and other places with excellent views.
- Discovering Hidden Inca Sites: You can visit ancient Inca sites, such as Wiñay Wayna and Phuyupatamarca.
- Cultural and Spiritual Connection: The Inca trail is more than just an adventurous trek; it is a spiritual trail.
Inca Trail Tour Options 2026
TreXperience offers different Inca Trail tour options, from the classic 4-day trek to the short Inca trail ranging from 2 to 7 days. All routes include visits to Inca sites, scenic landscapes, and are designed to provide a well-organized hiking experience. Permits are included and subject to availability. All tours follow the same official system, so early booking is recommended. Don't wait any longer and book your 2026 Inca Trail permit with us!
Classic Inca Trail to Machu Picchu
Slow Version Inca Trail
Private Inca Trail Tour
Classic Inca Trail to Machu Picchu 4D 3N
Step out of your comfort zone and hike the iconic Inca Trail to Machu Picchu. Take in the scenery, explore ancient Inca sites, meet our local porters, and savor Peruvian flavors, while making new friends and arriving at Machu Picchu through the Sun Gate.
Day 1 – Warm-up
Cusco, Km 82, Patallacta, Ayapata (14 km, 6 hrs / Highest Altitude 10,826 ft): They’ll pick up from your hotel in Cusco’s historic center and drive to Km 82 to start the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu. Today’s hike takes you past Patallacta to your first campsite at 3,300 m / 10,826 ft, where you’ll sleep in comfortable tents.
Day 2 – The Big Challenge
Ayapata, Warmiwañuska, Chaquicocha (16 km, 10 hrs / Highest Altitude 13,829 ft): This is the toughest and longest day. You’ll conquer two high passes: Dead Woman’s Pass, the highest point on the trail, and Runkuraqay Pass, over about ten hours on the move.
Day 3 – Easygoing & Scenic
Chaquicocha, Phuyupatamarca, Wiñaywayna (10 km, 6 hrs / Highest Altitude 11,811 ft): One of the most beautiful, laid-back days. You’ll walk about six hours through changing ecosystems and visit the remarkable terraces of Phuyupatamarca, Intipata, and Wiñaywayna.
Day 4 – Machu Picchu Day
Wiñaywayna, Machu Picchu, Cusco (6 km, 2 hrs / 8,923 ft): Early start to reach the Sun Gate for your first view of Machu Picchu through Circuit 1, then explore the citadel again in a most complete form through Circuit 3. After your guided visit, board the Vistadome Panoramic train and bus back to Cusco, arriving at your hotel around 7:30 p.m
Archaeological sites you’ll see on the Inca Trail 2026
The Inca Trail follows an ancient route built by the Incas. Along the way, you’ll pass stone stairways, ceremonial sites, and resting points once used by messengers and travelers. Places like Wiñay Wayna, Runkurakay, and Phuyupatamarca still guard part of their original structure. These sites make the walk a real journey through history, long before reaching Machu Picchu. For more information about the route, check our Inca Trail Travel Guide.
A terraced valley settlement you see early on the trail. Stone houses and wide farming terraces tell the story of daily life along the Cusichaca River.
A small, round Inca outpost perched on the slope to the second pass. Its curved walls and quiet setting hint at a former rest stop for travelers and messengers.
A cliffside complex with narrow alleys and terraces. From here, the trail feels suspended between mountains and cloud forest.
A lofty site often wrapped in mist, with terraces, ritual baths, and long stairways that flow down the ridge.
Steep terraces, flowing water channels, and orchids near the last campsite, an unforgettable final afternoon on the trail.
The first overlook of Machu Picchu. Arrive at dawn and watch the citadel appear as the light grows.
Best time to hike the Inca Trail
If you're looking for a quick answer, the best time to hike the Inca Trail is during the shoulder seasons, which are April to May and September to November. These months offer the best weather and fewer crowds on the trail.
The wet or rainy season lasts from November to April, with average daytime temperatures of 18 °C (64 °F) and nighttime temperatures around 9 °C (48 °F). Hiking the Inca Trail during this season means having fewer people on the trail, fewer crowds, more exclusivity for you, but with abundant rain, gray and overcast skies, and muddy, slippery trails.
The winter or dry season occurs from May to October. During this time, the average daytime temperature is 16 °C (61 °F), while nighttime temperatures can sometimes drop below 0 °C (32 °F). However, you'll find the days are clear with bright sunshine and dry trails. But the number of hikers will increase.
What do we include in our Inca Trail tours?
- Safety briefing the day before the tour.
- Complimentary luggage storage.
- Hotel pickup and drop off.
- All transportation during the tour.
- Professional Tour Guide.
- Cozy tourist trains.
- Bus from Machu Picchu to Aguas Calientes.
- Entry tickets to the Inca Trail and Machu Picchu.
- Personal Porter to carry up to 7kg / 15lb.
- Experienced chefs.
- Comfortable tents.
- All meals are prepared with fresh local ingredients.
- Drinkable water and daily snacks.
- A courtesy polo shirt for the Inca Trail.
- First-aid kit, satellite phones, oxygen supply.
- Pillow, sleeping pad, rain poncho, hand towels.
- Private portable toilets.
- All taxes and booking fees.
We organize small group tours to ensure a personalized and intimate travel experience. For those traveling with a large party or seeking an exclusive adventure, we offer private Inca Trail tours tailored specifically to your preferences. Contact us today, and we'll provide a customized price and design the perfect tour to meet your needs, ensuring an unforgettable journey.
Not Included in the Inca Trail
- Inflatable mattress: But you can hire it from us. $20 USD per person, for the entire hike.
- Sleeping bag: But you can hire it from us. $25 USD per person, for the entire hike.
- Trekking poles: But you can hire them with us. $20 USD per person, for the entire hike.
- Single tent: But you can hire it from us. $20 USD per person, for the entire hike
- Last day lunch and dinner after the Machu Picchu tour
- Travel Insurance
- Tips
Inca Trail Porters 2026
TreXperiencie is nationally recognized for treating porters fairly. As such, it provides the “Porter House” to give shelter and refuge to our invaluable collaborators.
Not to mention the fair treatment and wages we provide to each of them.
Tipping them is optional, but it’s common and appreciated on any Inca Trail experience. It’s a way to thank for their work. At TreXperience, we pay fair wages; however, extra tips are always welcome.
What to Pack in the Inca Trail?
We know you're going to have an amazing time in Peru, and sure you'll have plenty of space for all your souvenirs in one or two big pieces of luggage. But take note, you will only need to take the essentials for the Inca Trail.
This means 5 kg (11 lb) in your daypack and 7 kg (15 lb) in your duffle bag. The rest of your belongings, you can leave in your hotel in Cusco or in the TreXperience storerooms.
TreXperience include
- 1 duffle bag weighing 7 kg (15 lb) for storing your personal belongings. TreXperience porters will carry it from camp to camp, but you will not have access to it during the day. So, whatever you need while hiking must go in your daypack.
For the items you will need during the hike, we recommend carrying up to 5 kg in your daypack (on your own). Remember that you are responsible for carrying your backpack at all times, with the essentials for the day: water, snacks, light clothing, sunscreen, etc.
Essentials
- Original passport: A copy will not be accepted; your passport must be valid for at least 6 months to enter and exit Peru. You'll also need to ensure that your passport has two blank pages for entry and exit stamps.
- Valid Student ID: This is required only if you have booked the Inca Trail as a student. Student cards must be issued by the university (up to the age of 25). They should have the following details: university information, personal information, a student photo, and a valid date no later than December 31 of the year of travel.
- Hiking boots: Light, comfortable, and broken in. Make sure your shoes are not too tight or too loose. They should provide enough room for your toes to wiggle without being too spacious.
- Good-quality daypack: A comfortable, light, small, and cozy backpack is essential for carrying all your supplies.
- Camel bag or water bottle: Water storage for 2 liters. It is essential to choose a water bottle that will keep your water cold.
- Trekking poles: Highly recommended for the Inca Trail. You can also rent trekking poles from us.
- Sleeping bags: Buy a sleeping bag that fits your height and weight, and remember to pack it in a waterproof bag to stay dry on the trail. For the Inca Trail hike, we recommend sleeping bags rated at -10°C. You can also rent sleeping bags from us.
- Head headlamp: This is vital equipment for anyone embarking on the Machu Picchu Inca Trail. You can also bring a flashlight.
What to put in the Daypack?
- We recommend a 25- to 35-liter backpack with a rain cover. Large backpacks are not allowed in Machu Picchu, and if necessary, you will have to leave them in the lockers. This restriction is based on size, not capacity, so if yours is slightly larger but does not look bulky, it is fine.
- Hats and sunglasses: The sun is intense on the Inca Trail; bring sun hats with adjustable neck covers and UV protection sunglasses.
- Buff or Bandana: These multifunctional scarves are very useful for the trek.
- Bennie or Chullo: You will need them for the cold mountain passes or during the campsite for the night and early mornings.
- Hiking gloves: Look for lightweight, breathable, and waterproof gloves. They should keep you warm in cool weather and be suitable for trekking.
- Rain Jacket: Bring rain jackets no matter the season; we will provide a rain poncho. Materials such as Gore-Tex or eVent.
- Rain Pants: They are not often used and are not comfortable for the Inca Trail, but if you have them, you can bring them.
- Gaiters (Optional): They are not often used on the Inca Trail. If you have one, you can bring it; I don't recommend buying a new one.
- Warm layers: A base layer, a mid-layer of fleece or down, and a waterproof shell layer.Sun cream: Bring a high-factor sunscreen.
- Lip balm: With SPF protection.
- Bug spray: Bring one containing DEET or picaridin.
- Hand sanitizer: Carry a small bottle with you throughout the day.
- Toilet paper: There are plenty of bathrooms along the Inca Trail; take toilet paper inside a plastic bag.
- Personal first aid kit: For headaches, stomachaches, and colds. Take also Band-Aids and moleskin.
- Camera, extra batteries: The battery life of your electronic devices might be reduced at high altitudes. So, pack spare batteries or a power bank
- Snacks: Energy-pack granola bars or trail mix that provide plenty of fuel without making you sluggish during a hike.
- Extra money for souvenirs, drinks, and tips (small change helps pay for using the villagers' toilets on the first day).
What to put in the Duffle Bag
- TreXperience will provide you with a duffel bag to pack items you do not need to keep during the day. Our Porters will carry this bag for you throughout the trek. Please note that this bag should weigh a maximum of 7 kg (15 lb), including your sleeping bag and air mattress (if you bring/rent one). These 2 items weigh about 3 kg (2 kg sleeping bag and 1 kg air pad).
- During the safety briefing, duffel bags will be available at our office the day before the trek. If you need it earlier, you can also request it by email and pick it up in advance from our centrally located office in Cusco City.
- Sleeping bags: If you rent from us, these sleeping bags weigh 2 kilos. If you bring yours or rent somewhere else, make sure it is warm enough for the Inca Trail and clean.
- Air mattress (can be rented from us): Having an extra layer to sleep in will make your hike more comfortable and enjoyable. We provide a foam mattress included on the Inca Trail tour.
- Shoes for the campsite: After long hours of hiking with boots, you may want to remove the heavy hiking boots and have something light to wear at the campsite.
- Warm jacket: Temperatures can drop sharply at night, so wear warm layers when the sun goes down. Don't forget to pack a hat and gloves!
- T-shirts (wicking T-shirts are best): Synthetic fabrics like polyester or nylon are good options, as they wick away sweat and dry quickly. Avoid cotton shirts, as they hold onto moisture. Take around 5 T-shirts.
- 2-3 hiking pants/trousers: There are two main types of hiking pants. Cargo pants have large pockets on the sides of the legs, which are great for carrying extra gear. Convertible pants have legs that zip off at the knee, making them perfect for hot weather or changing conditions on the trail.
- Leggings work very well for ladies on the Inca Trail.
- 4 sets of undergarments, wearing a sports bra, and compression shorts will help keep you comfortable and prevent chafing.
- 4 sets of hiking socks, make sure the socks are made from a breathable material like wool or synthetic fibers.
- 1 Fleece: A fleece jacket or pullover is a good choice; you can layer it with other clothing if necessary.
- 1 Warm, down jacket for the coldest nights. The best jackets are made of down or synthetic insulation, keeping you warm even when wet.
- Quick-dry towel: This is a must-have for anyone planning to hike the Inca Trail.
- Biodegradable soap: To break down quickly and safely in nature, so it won't pollute the trail or harm any wildlife.
- Wet wipes: pack plenty of wet wipes! The trail can be dusty and dirty, so keeping your skin clean is essential.
- Toothbrush and paste: Make sure the brush and paste are small and compact for camping trips.
- Face moisturizer, high altitude, and the harsh sun can damage skin.
- Power bank/battery charger: You should use your phone in airplane mode and have a power bank with you; we recommend one with 20,000 mAh.
- Plastic bags to keep wet or muddy clothes separate.
Inca Trail rules 2026
- Anyone entering the Historic Sanctuary of Machu Picchu must use the authorized trekking routes and follow the rules issued by the government authorities.
- Flora and fauna are protected within this natural World Heritage area and must not be disturbed. It is strictly forbidden to remove, harm, or buy any species.
- Use only the marked trails and do not leave them for any reason.
- Camping is prohibited in areas marked as such, inside archaeological sites, or in restricted zones.
- Carry all trash in bags and dispose of it at the end of your hike.
- Campfires are dangerous and not allowed.
- Archaeological sites are protected; do not leave the trail to enter them.
- In case of emergency, follow the instructions of the person in charge.
- Behave respectfully so as not to disturb other hikers.
- Use public facilities without damaging or destroying them.
- Any violation of these rules may result in intervention by police or park rangers and the corresponding sanction. Please follow the rules to avoid unpleasant incidents.
Inca Trail Permits Frequently Asked Questions
Planning to hike the Inca Trail 2026? If you’re wondering how the Inca Trail availability and permits work, what to bring, or when to go, this section covers the key details. Here you'll find clear answers to the most common questions so you can prepare with confidence and make the most of your trek.
Can I hike the Inca Trail on my own?
No, you can not do the Inca Trail on your own. Since it was declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 2014, the Inca Trail is subject to strict regulations by the Peruvian government. This is due to the rapid erosion and wear and tear on the trail caused by high demand. Therefore, in order to do this trek, it is mandatory to book through an authorized tourism agency, which will manage the permits, guides, porters, and comply with all the conservation and safety requirements of the trek.
Do you need a permit for the Inca Trail?
Yes, you need a permit for the Inca Trail, as the trail is regulated by the Peruvian government. To prevent rapid deterioration and erosion due to high demand, they have established a limit of 500 entries per day. These are distributed not only among travelers, but also among porters, guides, and cooks.
When do permits for 2026 go on sale?
Permits for the Inca Trail in 2026 are released in October 2025. You can reserve your spot in advance with a deposit, and we’ll handle the booking once they’re available. Contact us if you'd like to be notified!
How many permits are available per day for the Inca Trail?
Each day, only 500 Inca Trail tickets are issued. Out of these, just 180 to 200 are for travelers; the rest are assigned to porters, chefs, and tour guides. Because the number of spots for hikers is limited, it’s important to book in advance to secure your place on this historic trail.
How far in advance should I book the Inca Trail?
If you plan to hike during high season (April to October), we recommend booking your permit at least 6 months in advance, as spots tend to sell out quickly. For the low season (November to March), it's best to book at least 3 months ahead to secure your place.
How to get a permit for the Inca Trail?
If you are ready to book your Inca Trail permits with us, follow these simple steps:
- Visit our booking page and click on any of the BOOK NOW buttons.
- Choose the start date of the tour.
- Select the number of participants that will be joining the adventure.
- Fill in the requested information, such as name, passport number, date of birth, nationality and gender. Be very careful when entering this information, as tickets are non-transferable and non-refundable in case of errors in names or passport numbers.
- Wait for the final manual confirmation from our team.
With these steps, you will be ready to live an unforgettable experience on the Inca Trail.
What documents do I need to book the Inca Trail?
In order to reserve a permit, you only need your valid passport with at least 6 months of validity before its expiration date. The information you must provide is:
- Name and last name
- Passport number
- Nationality
- Date of birth
- Sex and gender
Please note that the information provided must match exactly the information in your passport, as the permits are non-transferable and non-refundable.
Can I change or cancel the date of the Inca Trail permit?
Unfortunately, the answer is no. Once the Inca Trail permit reservation is made with the information provided, it is not possible to change the date or cancel the reservation. Inca Trail permits are non-refundable and do not allow modifications of any kind. Therefore, we recommend that you make sure of the dates before confirming the reservation.
What happens if the permits for the Inca Trail for 2026 are sold out?
The Inca Trail is a very popular trek, and the permits sell out quickly, as it is considered “one of the treks you must do at least once in your life”. However, if permits are no longer available, we offer you other options that you cannot miss:
- Short Inca Trail: A short version of the Classic Trail that will take you through archaeological sites such as Chachabamba, Wiñay Wayna and culminating in Machu Picchu.
- Salkantay Trek: One of the most challenging Inca Trail routes in Peru, it takes you through high mountain snowy landscapes until you reach Machu Picchu.
- Lares Trek: A route that combines nature and culture, passing through traditional Andean communities.
- Inka Jungle: An option that mixes adventure, biking, trekking, and rafting, ending in Machu Picchu.
- Choquequirao: A less crowded trek, but equally exciting, it is considered “Machu Picchu's sister”.
What is so special about the Inca Trail?
This trail stands out for the way it mixes history and nature: you'll walk toward Machu Picchu through dramatic landscapes, reach Inca ruins that few travelers visit, and experience a journey that’s at once physically demanding and culturally enriching, all while following in the ancient path that the Incas used centuries ago to get to Machu Picchu, providing an unparalleled adventure.
Can a beginner hike the Inca Trail?
Yes, beginners can hike the Inca Trail with the right prep. Give yourself a few months to build stamina and leg strength, and spend a couple of days in Cusco beforehand to acclimatize to the altitude. If you’d like an easier start, the 2-day Inca Trail is beginner-friendly and still offers great views and access to an amazing Inca ruin like Wiñaywayna.
What is the scariest part of the Inca Trail?
Dead Woman’s Pass (Warmiwañusca) is often considered the toughest and most intimidating section of the Inca Trail. The challenge comes from a steep, high-altitude climb with countless stone steps. Some stretches are narrow or lack railings, but the main difficulty is the sustained effort to reach the trail’s highest point at 4,215 m.a.s.l (13,828 ft).
Still Have Questions?
Need help choosing the right date or checking Inc Trail availability?
We’re here to help!
Inca Trail Guides & Information
This section includes everything you need to know about the Inca Trail. You’ll find details about permits, availability, planning tips, and route updates. We also share travel advice to help you prepare for the hike and make the most of your experience. If you still have questions, don’t hesitate to contact us.
 Updated June 2025 What to Pack for the Inca Trail: Essentials and Tips |  Updated June 2025 Inca Trail or Salkantay? How to Choose the Right Trek for You |  Updated May 2025 First Timer's Guide to Hike the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu |
Why Choose TreXperience?
We are a 100% Cusco-based company, passionate about providing you with exceptional service every step of the way. Whether it's the Lares Trek, Salkantay Trek, Choquequirao, Huchuy Qosqo trek, Inca Quarry Trek or the Inca Jungle, our team really cares about you. We look after our porters and muleeters, making sure they work in good conditions and with everything they need for your comfort. We also support local communities, bringing aid to those who need it most.
With us, you'll enjoy breathtaking scenery and lovingly prepared local meals. At Trexperience, we don't just accompany you; we are here for you to experience unforgettable moments. Come and discover the magic of Peru with us!
