Permits to hike the legendary Inca Trail are limited and always sell out fast. Right now is the time for travellers to book to secure their spot.
More than ever before, all levels of adventurers are readying to get themselves to the places they’ve always wanted to see. The “some day I am going to hike the Inca Trail” mentality is fast becoming the “this is the year I am going to hike the Inca Trail” reality. Sound like you? It may surprise you that one of the world’s most famous treks is well within most people’s reach. You definitely need to be healthy and in good shape but our seasoned (and award-winning!) team keeps you hyped, well-fed, and rested all along the way.
Like many people considering the climb, you’ve probably got a few questions left to answer before booking your big Incan adventure. And wouldn’t you know it, we’ve got plenty of good answers lined up for you. Seven of them, in fact. So let’s dig in!
1: How do permits work and do I buy one myself?
In an effort to preserve one of the world’s oldest and most popular trails, the Peruvian government caps the number of visitors on the Inca Trail each year. Not surprisingly, permits are released and sell out quickly. Only tour operators like G Adventures can get permits and we work with our locally-based Cusco team to secure one on your behalf. If we’re successful, it’ll be waiting for you in Peru before your tour even begins. You must have a permit to hike the Inca Trail, so it’s best to book with us as soon as you can. Time is of the essence!
2: How difficult is the trek?
While we have more than a few ways to “do” the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, the popular four-day trek is challenging but not reserved for athletes. Healthy people of all ages make the climb and all it takes is a good dose of energy, perseverance and some preparation. It’s also important to acclimatise to the altitude, so you either need to arrive a day or two early or book a tour with adjustment time built into the itinerary.
Just to give you a sense of the effort required, a traditional Inca Trail trek begins with a boost by van to Km 82 to start a simpler than you’d think 11km / 6.8mi walk up to Wayllabamba Camp at 2,950m / 9,678ft. The second day kicks it up a notch with the long climb to Warmiwañusca, commonly known as Dead Woman’s Pass. It’s the highest point of the trek (almost 1,800m / 5,905ft higher than Machu Picchu itself) and completing it with an early-afternoon arrival to camp boosts your energy for the remaining journey. The third day has the longest walk at 16km / 9.9mi but rewards you with epic scenery and Incan architectural marvels. Then, all of that muscle toning carries you to your final pre-dawn hike to reach Machu Picchu by sunrise. Long story short: you can do it and we will help!
3: Speaking of help… who is hiking with us?
As with any great endeavour, it takes a village, and we send our very best people to lead the way. Our guides, porters and chefs are absolute champs on the trail and are all hired from the local community. Not only will you trek with a small group of like-minded travellers from around the world but you’ll be fed, encouraged and supported by our ‘Inca Warriors’. Our chefs serve up three delicious meals along the way and all of the snacks you need for energy boosts. Our team of porters carry, set up and take down your tents each day and all you need to do is carry your own daypack. And, of course, your local guide is there to lead the journey, teach you about the culture and sights, look out for your safety and make sure you have the time of your life!
4: Where do we sleep along the trail?
To keep Peru and its ancient trails beautiful, there are set campsites you’ll make your way to each night. As mentioned, all of your sleeping gear is supplied and carried to the camps by our team of skilled porters. What services are available at each stop varies, but we do everything possible to make sure bedding down is clean and comfortable. Typically, we use three-person tents for two people and their sleeping bags with mats.
5: How much am I carrying and what should I pack?
All of our itineraries include specific packing lists and tips. The higher altitude means it can feel quite cold, especially at night, so layers and a warm hat and gloves are essential. During your trek briefing you can rent sleeping bags, mats and walking poles or bring your own. All of your essentials like your binoculars, camera and cash stay on you in your daypack and everything else (up to 6 kg maximum per person) is carried by our team. Packing light but right is wise and we can’t sing enough praises about a quick dry towel, headlamp and extra batteries for your must-have electronics. You’ll also need rain gear, liners to waterproof bags and a travel pillow. Again, we’ve got handy lists at the ready!
6: Do I have to hike? I heard there’s a train.
Choo choo! You heard right. You can save the wear and tear on your feet and opt for locomotive power to whisk you to Machu Picchu from Cusco. On tours like Peru Upgraded or The Inca Journey, you travel a 3.5 hour scenic route along the Urubamba River to Aguas Calientes at the foot of Machu Picchu. Alternatively, if you want a taste of the Inca Trail but want to hike a lesser-travelled route, there’s The Lares Trek with One-Day Inca Trail tour that gives you the best of both experiences.
7: If there are no Inca Trail permits available, are there other treks in the area?
Yes! No Inca Trail permits? No problem. There are incredible alternative treks that still get you to Machu Picchu — and offer plenty more along the way. The Salkantay Trek is perfect for adventure-seekers, taking you through high mountain passes and cloud forests, offering jaw-dropping views of the snow-capped Mount Salkantay. For a more culturally-rich route, the Lares Trek leads you through remote Andean villages, where you’ll connect with local Quechua communities and experience what daily life is like in the mountains. Both treks offer stunning scenery, meaningful encounters, and of course that unforgettable finish at the legendary Machu Picchu.
If you still have questions in mind, our Inca Trail info page is a great place to start or you can reach out directly through chat, email or phone.
Getting There
Ready to lace up your comfiest hiking boots and conquer the Inca Trail? Here are just a few of our top tour options in Peru:
