How do I get an Inca Trail permit?

Inca Trail permits must be booked through an authorized tour operator like Wari Expeditions. They cannot be purchased independently and require valid passport details.

When should I book my 2026 Inca Trail permit?

We recommend booking 2 to 6 months in advance, especially for the high season from May to September. Permits for the next year usually become available around October.

Updated for 2026 Season

Inca Trail Permits and Availability for 2026

Secure your place on one of the 10 best hiking trails in the world. Live availability check, instant booking advice, and expert guidance for your journey to Machu Picchu.

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Avg. 8 trekkers

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Licensed by Govt.

Why do you need a permit for the Inca Trail?

Strict government regulations protect the Inca Trail's heritage.

The Peruvian government limits access to the Inca Trail to preserve its structural integrity and natural beauty. Only 500 permits are issued daily. This total includes guides, porters, and cooks, leaving approximately 200 tickets per day for tourists.

Crucial: Permits are non-transferable and require valid passport details at the time of booking. Once sold out, no more are released.

Required for the Classic 4-Day Trek
Required for the Short 2-Day Trek

Original Inca Stone Steps

Sun Gate Arrival

Live Database

Real-time availability for the Inca Trail (4-day and 2-day)

Check the official government status for the Classic 4-Day and Short 2-Day Inca Trail treks.

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This information is provided courtesy of the INC (National Institute of Culture).

IMPORTANT NOTE: Inca Trail permits are limited and sell out quickly. We recommend booking in advance. If fewer than 20 permits remain, we cannot guarantee one, but Wari Expeditions will do everything possible to secure your spot.

Daily Permits Limits:

Classic 4-Day Inca Trail: 500 spaces daily (including support staff, cooks, and guides)
Short 2-Day Inca Trail: 250 spaces daily (including support staff and guides)

Machu Picchu Entry & Circuit Information (Updated)

Access to Machu Picchu is regulated by official entry circuits established by the Peruvian authorities to protect the site and enhance the visitor experience. Each tour includes a specific circuit, depending on the route and availability at the time of booking.

Inca Trail tours (Classic 4-day and Short 2-day) include entry to Machu Picchu via Circuit 1 – Guardian’s House, offering panoramic views of the citadel.

Trekking routes such as Salkantay, Choquequirao, Inca Jungle, Lares, as well as other tours that include Machu Picchu, provide access through Circuit 2 or Circuit 3, subject to official availability.

Please note that circuit availability may change, especially during high season. For this reason, we strongly recommend booking in advance to secure the best possible entry route.

Updated Machu Picchu Circuits (from June 2024):
Review the latest official circuits and routes established by the Ministry of Culture.

You can also check real-time availability for Machu Picchu, Huayna Picchu, Machu Picchu Mountain, and all authorized circuits before making your reservation.

What should I do if there are no more spaces for the Inca Trail?

If the Inca Trail is fully booked for your desired dates, consider alternative treks to Machu Picchu, such as the Salkantay Trek, Lares Trek, or Choquequirao Trek. These routes offer unique experiences and stunning scenery while still culminating at Machu Picchu.