2026 Inca Trail Reservations Now Open!
The Inca Trail to Machu Picchu is one of the most popular and historical paths in the world. It’s also the only trail that leads you directly to Machu Picchu by foot through the Sun Gate.
However, here are some important tips you should consider before you book it:
- The Inca Trail closes in February as it is the most intense month of the rainy season.
- Inca Trail availability and booking is exclusively controlled by the Peruvian authorities so there is no flexibility. The same availability rules apply to every agency in Peru.
- There is no such thing as a WAITLIST / CANCELLATION LIST. If any agency tells you that they can do this, they are simply not telling the truth and are operating illegally! If a tourist cancels their space is not given to anyone else.
- There are only 500 spaces a day for the Inca Trail which include all support staff (ie. porters, cooks and guides). The spaces are divided between 200 tourists and 300 porters. Once this limit of 500 people is reached, the Inca Trail is effectively closed off for the day and no further bookings can be made.
Permits for the Inca Trail trek to Machu Picchu will go on sale on October 27, 2025.
When you pre-book with us, we’ll be ready to purchase your permits as soon as they’re released, so you can get your preferred start date for the trek.
We’ve always succeeded in getting the chosen dates for our pre-booked travelers!
Important: April, May, June, and July are the busiest months and typically sell out within the first few hours once permits go on sale.
If you’re planning to hike during these peak months, we highly recommend to book your trek as soon as possible to secure your spot.
Choose Two Possible Departure Dates
For the Inca Trail, it’s important to have two possible departure dates. This is because May is a high-demand month, and permits can sell out very quickly.
All tour operators compete for a limited number of spots, and sometimes the government reservation system can even experience slowdowns or temporary crashes due to heavy traffic. For example, if your first choice is May 14th, it’s best to have an alternative date as a backup. This way, if your preferred date is already sold out, we can immediately secure your second option and make sure you don’t miss the opportunity to hike the legendary Inca Trail.
How to Book Your 2026 Inca Trail Permit
Booking your Inca Trail trek with us is very easy! Please click on the link: https://www.intisuntrek.com/inca-trail-to-machu-picchu-peru-inka-trail-trek-trek-information-price-inca-trail-reservations
Simply click the “Pay Now” button, select the date you wish to start the hike, and then fill out the required information for each traveler. Once your payment is completed, you’ll automatically receive a confirmation voucher, and your reservation will be instantly confirmed.
Final Payment Details
The remaining balance is due two days before your tour departs in Cusco. You can also choose to pay in advance via online payment (a 6% merchant fee applies, covered by the traveler).We accept both U.S. dollars and Peruvian soles, but please note that torn or damaged bills are not accepted.
Can I Pay My Final Balance with a Credit Card?
Yes! We accept Visa, MasterCard, Diners Club, and American Express for the remaining balance.
A 6% fee will be applied to the total amount.
