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Inca Trail Permits : How They Work – Everything You Need to Know
In years gone by it was a lot easier to trek the Inca Trail. One could obtain permission easily and could trek with or without a guide. But these days things are very different, the Peruvian government has enforced strict rules to prevent overcrowding, over use and have done this is to ensure the future of the sacred Inca Pathways.
Today there are a controlled number of daily hiking permits, making it essential to book your Inca Trail in advance, sometimes up to 6 months, for the high season which runs from May through August.
Why the Permit System?
Due to the popularity the number of people who trekked to Machu Picchu increased immensely. After Machu Picchu was declared a world heritage site in the 1980s, the year hiking average increased from 6000 in 1984 to 82000 in 2000. This increased traffic caused erosion and garbage creating a threat to the pristine ruin and the ecology of the surrounding Andes.
Studies performed caused alarms as if continued as it was the site was in danger of collapse. In 2000 the government of Peru, out of fear, decided to limit the number of daily trekkers on the Inca Trail to 500 people. This includes trekkers, guides, porter and cooking staff.
The Permit Dates
The permits are available everyday of the year from 1 January to the 31 January and from the 1 March to the 31 December. The month of February the trail is closed every year for maintenance.
The Regulations
- Only 500 total permits are available per day for trekking.
- This limit includes 300 permits total for guides, porters, and other staff, and 200 permits for all customer trekkers
- You can only hike the Inca Trail with a licensed tour operator
- Entry points and camping spots were pre-determined on your permit and at ranger-protected checkpoints.
- Permits are non-refundable and non-transferrable. Dates and names cannot be moved.
- All Inca Trail Permit regulations are controlled by the Peruvian government, not by individual trekking companies.
- Note that the Inca Trail is closed every February for trail maintenance. This is often the rainiest month of the season.
How do I get a permit for the Inca Trail?
Due to popular demand the permits for the Inca Trail sell out months in advance and seem to sell out more quickly every year. Only licensed Inca Trail Operators like SAM Travel Peru can obtain these permits for the Government of Peru. The limit is followed strictly and the number of people allowed on the trail includes trekkers, porters and guides. To get your preferred day you should start your booking process at least 3 to 6 months in advance, especially if you want to travel in the high season. If you wish to trek in the months of March, April, September, October, November, December or January you may find permits easier to come by, but remember that November, December and January are considered to be the rainy season.
It is important to note that all permits will need to be booked with a passport, if by chance your passport will expire soon, book the permit with the old passport and when you receive your new passport, we can make the change. But remember to bring both passports with you to Peru.
Also remember you must have 6 months validity on your passport to enter Peru.
For what treks do you need a Permit?
- The Classic Inca Trail 4 Days / 3 Nights, Group and Private
- The Short Inca Trail 2 Days / 1 Night, Group and Private
- Salkantay Trek and Inca Trail Treks 7 Days, Group and Private
- Lares and Short Inca Trail 5 Days/4 Nights, Group and Private
What to do if you can’t get a Permit?
As the Inca Trail is very popular and there is a limit to the number of people that can trek per day, we always recommend that you have at least 2 alternative dates to choose. If this is not possible, there are many other options that are as equally beautiful.
Some of the Alternative Treks that you may enjoy.
- Salkantay Trek,
- Ausangate and Rainbow Mountain Treks,
- Choquequirao Treks,
- Lares Treks
- Huchuy Qosqo Treks.
All these treks have natural lush and historic beauty and some even follow the ancient Inca paths. Most don’t require a permit as you will not be hiking the classic Inca Trail. Also, something to remember is that these treks are void of the maddening crowds.
The Peruvian government releases permits on a rolling basis, typically in the October prior to the year you want to trek (for example, permits for 2025 were released in November of 2024). Mark it on your calendar, and prioritize booking your trip in the summer or early fall, a full year before your trip. This will help you all but guarantee you can get a permit for the dates you want.
What agency do I choose for my Inca Trail Trek to Machu Picchu?
This is one of the most important decisions that you will take when choosing your Inca Trail. Do your research and choose an agency with a license to operate the Inca Trail. SAM Travel Peru is such an agency. SAM Travel Peru is an innovative adventure trekking company that offers unparalleled on the Inca Trail. We have the highest quality service, an outstanding reputation because we can guarantee the best quality service through our SAM Travel Peru staff and guides to strictly operate our treks.
Remember that the if you want to trek the Inca Trail you will need to book in advance, if you want to go in the high season, 6 months in advance is recommended. The spectacular Inca Trail will include some of the most prodigious scenery you will ever experience. This challenging trek is something that will live in your heart and your memory for a life time.
Inca Trail Availability with SAM Travel Peru
