The Inca Trail is now so famous that it's almost a rite of passage for travellers. Its iconic status as one of the most incredible trails on earth means that thousands of trekkers hike the ancient pilgrimage route every year.

Because so many tourists trek the Inca Trail each year, there are stringent laws that govern the trail and anyone wishing to trek will need to obtain a permit and guide.

Below, I will discuss permit options and Inca Trail availability in greater detail.

Inca Trail Availability and Permits

Although other Inca trail alternatives are available, such as bus, train and other lesser known routes, there is something special about taking the original route that the Incas would have used. The Inca Trail itself takes you through changing environments from sub-tropical forests to alpine tundra and jungle.

It's cultural significance, architectural brilliance and beautiful landscape is certainly worth visiting and any traveller worth their salt will want to hike it. Being the original pilgrimage route, the Inca Trail is by far the most popular way of reaching and exploring the ancient city of Machu Picchu.

Inca Trail Routes

Whilst there is only one 'classic' 4-day Inca Trail, there are actually two other options for the trail that many people overlook.

The classic option is by far the most popular and takes 4 days to complete.

However, people with less time have the option of trekking what is known as the 'Short 2-Day Inca Trail'. This is a 2 day 1 night version that starts further up the classic route and an ideal option for families or retirees that get tired easily. 

The other option is to combine the Classic Inca Trail with the Salkantay route. This is the longest option, taking 7 days and 6 nights. However, it is also the most beautiful journey as you trek through incredible mountain scenery, including past the iconic Mount Salkantay!

See our guide to hiking to Machu Picchu.

Inca Trail Permits

Because of its huge popularity, the Peruvian Government has initiated a number of schemes to reduce the negative impact on the trail and the ancient city.

The most notable of these came in 2001 when the government installed a quota scheme whereby only a set number of people would be allowed to trek the route each day. This scheme is still in effect today and means that anyone wishing to trek the Inca Trail will need to obtain a permit prior to their departure.

The scheme allocates 500 permits a day.

These 500 daily permits are not just for tourists, and include porters and guides. Because the permits are sold on a first-come-first-serve basis, you need to book your permit well in advance because they're like gold dust.

A second Peruvian government scheme was to insist that every trekker on the Inca Trail be accompanied by a registered guide. Therefore, only authorised tour companies can obtain permits and you'll need to go through an operator to purchase one.

I often get asked if you can purchase last minute cancellation permits. Sadly, the answer is no as all permits are paired with an individual's passport number and the government has strict control policies at Inca Trail check points.

You may also like...

• Best Inca trail tour companies
• Best Machu Picchu tours

When booking with a tour company, be sure to write down all your details accurately as any error in personal details cannot be changed and you won't be allowed onto the trail as a result. 

Inca Trail Availability

Inca Trail availability can be checked on the Ministry of Culture's website. Information on Inca Trail availability for each new year is released in mid January when permits go on sale.

Conclusion

If you have any further questions regarding Inca Trail availability and permits, then please leave a reply in the comments section below and we will respond as soon as possible. 

Thank you and happy trekking!