Inca Trail Permits Sold Out for 2026
- January 2026: 100% sold out
- February 2026: Closed for maintenance
- March 2026: Open, 70% sold out
- April 2026: Open, 80% sold out
- May 2026: Open, 100% sold out
- June 2026: Open, 85% sold out
- July 2026: Open, 60% sold out
- August 2026: Open, 50% sold out
- September 2026: Open, 30% sold out
- October 2026: Open, available for booking
- November 2026: Open, available for booking
- December 2026: Open, available for booking
Check real-time availability of Inca Trail permits
1.- 2 Day Inca trail to Machu Picchu
The Short Inca Trail is the ideal option when the 4-day Classic Inca Trail is sold out, as it allows you to walk the last section of the original trail before reaching Machu Picchu. It does not require camping and still offers an authentic historical experience of the Inca Trail.
Ideal for: travelers with limited time, families, and those seeking greater comfort.
Highlights: arrival at Machu Picchu through the Sun Gate (Inti Punku), which offers a unique panoramic view of the citadel.
- Duration: 2 days/1 night (hotel accommodation)
- Difficulty: Easy to moderate
Important: Official permit required; easier to obtain than the Classic Inca Trail permit, although it can also sell out.
2. Salkantay Trek: The best adventure route
The Salkantay Trek is the alternative to the Inca Trail. It is famous for its breathtaking landscapes, combining snow-capped mountains and tropical rainforest.
Who is it for? For people in good physical condition who are looking for adventure and incredible natural landscapes.
Highlights: You will visit the famous Humantay Lake and the snow-capped Salkantay Mountain.
- Duration: Generally 5 days, 4 days, and 3 nights.
- Difficulty: High. It is a greater physical challenge than the traditional Inca Trail.
Important fact: You arrive at Machu Picchu Pueblo (Aguas Calientes) on foot, but you do not enter directly through the Sun Gate.
3. Lares Trail: the cultural route
If you prefer to avoid the tourist crowds and get to know the real Peru, the Lares Trail is the ideal option for you. This route takes you through valleys where local life has remained virtually unchanged for centuries.
Who is it for? For travelers who want to learn about the local culture, see Andean communities, and enjoy the tranquility.
Highlights: Interacting with local families, seeing llamas and alpacas in their habitat, lakes and snow-capped mountains, relaxing in hot springs.
- Duration: 4 days and 5 days.
- Difficulty: Moderate. You walk in the high mountains, but the trails are easier.
4.- Choquequirao Trek: for true adventure lovers
Known as the “sister city of Machu Picchu,” Choquequirao is one of the most impressive and least visited Inca archaeological complexes in Peru. This trek is longer and more physically demanding, but it offers an authentic and deeply rewarding experience for those who love a great challenge.
Duration:
- 7 to 9 days connecting Choquequirao with Machu Picchu
- 4 to 5 days to Choquequirao only
Difficulty: Challenging and demanding.
Highlights: Choquequirao ruins, deep Apurímac canyons, epic landscapes.
5.- Huchuy Qosqo Trek
The trek to Huchuy Qosqo is a short but beautiful alternative, ideal for travelers with limited time who still want to enjoy Andean trekking.
- Duration: 1–2 days
- Difficulty: Easy to moderate
- Highlights: Inca ruins, views of the Sacred Valley, highland landscapes.
This hike can easily be combined with tours to the Sacred Valley before heading to Machu Picchu.
Important: It is important to check before booking tickets to Machu Picchu, as they sell out quickly.
