Issuing permits is a way to limit the daily numbers of people walking popular routes. This means the trails are quieter for everyone to enjoy and most importantly, helps to preserve the route and historic sites for future generations.

Although 500 Inca Trail permits are available each day, around 300 of those are allocated to porters and guides, so in reality there are really only 200 permits a day for hikers.

The Peruvian Ministry for Culture continues to enforce very strict permit rules, when booking it is essential that you provide your full passport information; permits are given on a first-come-first-serve basis, they are non-transferrable and there is no waiting list!

James Desmond, KE’s Product Manager for Peru, offers the following advice...

“Once permit registration is open, permits to hike in May and June have been known to disappear in the first 24 hours, with other dates following close behind. I would recommend that all would-be Inca Trail trekkers get their bookings in as soon as possible.

The Inca Trail is one of the world’s most iconic treks and it is proving to be more enduringly popular than ever. There are few experiences to rival the feeling of trekking through the Sun Gate of Intipunku to catch a first glimpse of Machu Picchu just as it is lit up by the rays of the rising sun. Though the strict permit rules may seem like an unnecessary inconvenience, regulating the number of people on the trail ensures that this enduring popular hiking route is well preserved and protected, so it can continue to charm trekkers, both new and experienced, for many, many years to come.”

Inca Trail Routes Requiring Permits

You will need a permit for the following holiday:

INCA TRAIL TO MACHU PICCHU

This is the classic trek to Machu Picchu with vital acclimatisation in the town of Cusco. Unlike other competitors, we use remote campsites and avoid crowds along this routes.

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THE INCA TRAIL AND BEYOND

Enjoy an extended trek through the quiet Cordillera Vilcabamba before joining the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu.

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