The best trekking routes in the world have something in common: spectacular landscapes, a fascinating history, and a challenging adventure.
The Inca Trail has all these elements and much more. Following in the footsteps of the Incas to the wonder of Machu Picchu is a unique experience. Each trail tells a story and transports you to the heart of a lost civilization in the middle of the Andes, making the Inca Trail one of the most sought-after routes for travelers visiting Peru.
Due to its popularity and the Peruvian government’s commitment to protecting the area, tickets for this incredible route to Machu Picchu are limited and sell out quickly. If you’re planning your adventure in Cusco for 2025, here we explain everything you need to know to secure your spot on this unforgettable hike.
How to Buy Tickets for the Inca Trail in 2025
If you are planning your trip to Cusco, you should know that you cannot enter the Inca Trail on your own, as access is strictly regulated. All reservations must be made through an authorized travel agency. This iconic route to Machu Picchu is supervised by the Ministry of Culture of Peru and SERNANP (National Service of Natural Protected Areas), which grant certified agencies the exclusive permission to sell tickets and manage entry.
Access is limited to only 500 people per day, including agency staff who accompany tourists on the trail: guides, porters, and cooks. This means that tourist spots are reduced to approximately 200 per day. For this reason, it is important to book in advance. Inca Trail permits go on sale in October, before the start of the year, allowing time for their purchase.
IMPORTANT: Buying tickets for the Inca Trail is one of the first things you should do when planning your trip to Peru. It is essential to book your tour with a certified company, as the agency will handle your permit and ensure that everything is properly arranged for your journey.
How to Choose Your Travel Agency
A good travel agency stands out for several essential factors that ensure a safe, authentic, and memorable experience:
- Reputation and reliability
- Extensive experience
- Quality services
- Highly trained staff
- Commitment to responsible tourism
- Responsibility towards its collaborators
At Salkantay Trekking, all these elements are essential. That’s why we make sure to apply them in every adventure. We strive to provide an unforgettable experience, offering comfort, safety, and quality to our travelers. Our team is made up of local experts from Cusco who know the routes, and we promote their continuous training for their professional development and growth.
Additionally, we strictly adhere to the Porter Law, a key aspect of responsible tourism. Porters play a crucial role on the Inca Trail, carrying the necessary items for tourists and travel agencies with their own physical effort. For this reason, we are committed to ensuring fair working conditions, respecting the maximum allowed weight, appropriate working hours, and their overall well-being, preventing any risk to their health.
The Best Time to Buy Tickets
You should book your Inca Trail tickets as soon as possible, as it is a high-demand route, and spots sell out quickly.
- Low season (November – April): You can book 4 to 5 months in advance since there are fewer tourists.
- High season (May – October): It is essential to book at least 6 months in advance, as demand is much higher.
The high-season months coincide with Cusco’s dry season, the best time to travel, as the sky is clear and there is less chance of rain. This allows you to fully enjoy the breathtaking landscapes of the Inca Trail. However, high demand makes spots sell out even faster, so plan your trip in advance to secure your place in this unique experience. Book now!
INCA TRAIL CLOSURE: The Inca Trail remains closed throughout February due to maintenance and conservation work, as well as heavy rains typical of the season.
Steps to Follow
Booking your Inca Trail ticket may seem complicated, but with these steps, it will feel incredibly easy:
- Contact the travel agency
Only authorized agencies can manage permits for the Inca Trail. At Salkantay Trekking, we have extensive experience and a strong reputation, and we will be happy to help you organize the trip of your dreams. - Choose the Date and Check Availability
Inca Trail tickets include various options, such as the Short Inca Trail (1 and 2 days) and the Classic Inca Trail (4 days). There are also longer combinations, such as the Salkantay Route + Short Inca Trail (6 days) and the Salkantay Trek + Classic Inca Trail (7 days). Additionally, you can add extra services, such as Huayna Picchu and Machu Picchu Mountain.
Depending on your time in Cusco and your personal preferences, you can choose the option that best suits you. However, it is important to remember that permits are subject to availability, so booking in advance is recommended.
The Salkantay Trekking website has a calendar where you can check Inca Trail availability. - Book in Advance
Inca Trail reservations open in October of the previous year, and it is recommended to book 6 months in advance, especially for high-season dates (May to October). - Send Your Personal Information
Provide your information exactly as it appears on your valid passport:- Full name
- Passport number
- Nationality
- Date of birth
It is important to ensure that the information on your passport matches your reservation. If you renew your passport before the trip, you must inform the agency to avoid issues at the access checkpoint. Other than that, no changes can be made to the tickets, as they are personal and non-transferable.
- Prepare your trip
With good preparation, you will fully enjoy this adventure to Machu Picchu.- Documentation: Make sure all your personal documents are in order before traveling.
- Acclimatization: When you arrive in Cusco, it is important to set aside at least two days to acclimate to the altitude. We recommend engaging in calm activities, staying well-hydrated, and maintaining a light diet.
- Physical condition: Prepare for the hike by doing cardio and strength exercises to improve your endurance.
- Gear: Finally, bring proper trekking equipment – layered clothing, hiking boots, a rain poncho, sunscreen, and insect repellent.
Read our blog for more information on what to wear for the Inca Trail
All set! Now all that’s left is to enjoy the adventure of the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu!
What Does the Inca Trail Ticket Include?
When booking with an agency like Salkantay Trekking, we will be responsible for purchasing your permit. Additionally, the Inca Trail tour includes:
- Permit for the Inca Trail
- Entrance to Machu Picchu
- Transportation to the starting point of the hike and back to Cusco from Ollantaytambo
- Return train ticket to Ollantaytambo
- Camping and meals
- Cook and professional guide
- All meals during the trek
- Porter service
- Medical or first aid kit
These services ensure a well-organized, safe, and fully equipped experience to make the most of the journey. This means that once your spot is secured, you can forget about all the logistics and focus on the fun part of preparing for your trip.
You only have one task: Enjoy.
REMEMBER: The Inca Trail ticket is non-refundable and non-transferable.
Inca Trail permits are issued for a specific date and will be under your name. They are non-refundable, non-transferable, and cannot be changed under any circumstances.
Therefore, it is essential to book with a certified agency, ensuring a safe, legal, and hassle-free process. You must also be certain about your travel dates at the time of booking and ensure that your personal information is correct and matches the details on your valid passport.
Differences between the various routes
The permit for the Short Inca Trail (1 and 2 days) has a different price than the Classic Inca Trail (4 days):
| Prices | Standard | Student | Minors (3-17 years old) |
| Short Inca Trail | 60 $ | 30 $ | 28 $ |
| Classic Inca Trail | 80 $ | 40 $ | 36 $ |
Additionally, the 4-day Inca Trail has different circuits. Although the complete route is the same, the campsites may vary, as they are assigned by the Government. Depending on the circuit, the distance between campsites may be greater or shorter, which evens out the distribution of effort throughout the hike.
Circuit 1:
- Day 1: Cusco – Wayllabamba
- Day 2: Wayllabamba – Paqaymayu Alto
- Day 3: Paqaymayu Alto – Wiñay Wayna
- Day 4: Wiñay Wayna – Machu Picchu – Cusco
Circuit 3:
- Day 1: Cusco – Ayapata
- Day 2: Ayapata – Chaquiqocha
- Day 3: Chaquiqocha – Wiñay Wayna
- Day 4: Wiñay Wayna – Machu Picchu – Cusco
Circuit 2:
- Day 1: Cusco – Wayllabamba
- Day 2: Wayllabamba – Paqaymayu Alto
- Day 3: Paqaymayu Alto – Phuyupatamarka
- Day 4: Phuyupatamarka – Machu Picchu – Cusco
Circuit 4:
- Day 1: Cusco – Chamana/Tayaroc
- Day 2: Chamana/Tayaroc – Llulluchapata
- Day 3: Chaquiqocha – Wiñay Wayna
- Day 4: Phuyupatamarka – Machu Picchu – Cusco
At Salkantay Trekking, we offer Circuit 3. This circuit is the most balanced, as the distance between campsites is even, allowing for a more comfortable journey by optimizing effort and rest time. In exceptional cases where permits for this circuit are sold out, we will offer you the best available alternative.
What Will I See on the Inca Trail?
Before reaching Machu Picchu, you will pass through breathtaking archaeological sites, each with a unique history. Many are located in remote and inaccessible areas, making you feel truly privileged to explore them.
- Llactapata: An ancient Incan agricultural center with impressive terraces and panoramic views of the Sacred Valley.
- Runkurakay: A mysterious semicircular structure on top of a hill, offering stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
- Sayacmarca: Known as the “Inaccessible Town” due to its location on a ridge. Built on a cliff, it features impressive walls and unique views.
- Phuyupatamarca: Called the “City Above the Clouds,” this archaeological complex has ceremonial fountains and mist-covered terraces.
- Intipata: A series of agricultural terraces with a privileged view of the valley, showcasing the Incas’ advanced knowledge of high-altitude farming.
- Wiñay Wayna: An Incan site with stepped terraces and temples, known as “Forever Young” for its beauty and proximity to Machu Picchu.
- Inti Punku: The majestic Sun Gate, the final entrance to Machu Picchu from the Inca Trail, where travelers get their first breathtaking view of the citadel.
Each of these archaeological sites along the Inca Trail adds a special chapter to your journey before reaching Machu Picchu.
What Will I See in Machu Picchu Entering Through the Inca Trail?
By hiking the Inca Trail, you will arrive at Machu Picchu through the same entrance the Incas once used: Inti Punku, the Sun Gate.
From this point, you will witness the sunrise and admire one of the Seven Wonders of the World for the first time. The fortress of Machu Picchu awaits you with all its magic, surrounded by the towering mountains of Huayna Picchu and Machu Picchu. This is an unmatched reward after your trek.
The Machu Picchu itinerary includes Circuit 3, allowing you to explore the center and left side of the Inca citadel. This route does not require much physical effort, enabling you to enjoy the site at a relaxed pace and fully appreciate its history and beauty.
For more information, read our blog about Machu Picchu tickets.
The places you will visit on Circuit 3 are:
- Inca House Complex
- Twelve-Opening Structure
- Eastern Storage Rooms
- Water Mirror Complex
- Temple of the Condor
- Pisonay Square
- Archaeological Reserve
EXPLORE HUAYNA PICCHU: This route does NOT include access to the summit of Huayna Picchu Mountain. If you wish to add this experience, contact us for more information about this additional service. You can also add the Huchuy Picchu and Machu Picchu Mountains
What Are Your Options If Tickets Are Sold Out?
If you couldn’t secure a permit for the Inca Trail, not all is lost. There are other spectacular routes that will take you to Machu Picchu, each offering breathtaking landscapes and unique experiences.
Alternative Routes to Machu Picchu
- Inca Jungle: Pure adventure! Ideal for adrenaline lovers. This route combines mountain biking, hiking, rafting, and zip-lining. You will visit the archaeological site of Llactapata and finish your journey at Machu Picchu.
- Inca Quarry: A lesser-known route that passes through ancient Inca quarries and beautiful waterfalls. It features Inti Punku, a gateway with stunning views of Verónica Mountain. You will arrive in Aguas Calientes by train to enjoy Machu Picchu at a relaxed pace.
- Salkantay: Discover breathtaking landscapes of snow-capped mountains, turquoise lagoons, and high jungle. Enjoy a comfortable experience in the exclusive campsites of Salkantay Trekking. You will visit Machu Picchu on the last day of the trip, enjoying the site at a relaxed pace.
- Lares: A cultural experience that immerses you in traditional Andean communities, lets you see Andean wildlife, and explore remote trails. After visiting the Maras salt mines, you will reach Machu Picchu comfortably by train.
- Ancasocha: A challenging trek with spectacular panoramic views that takes you to Machu Picchu through paths with fewer tourists and a mix of mountain landscapes and green valleys.
- Huchuy Qosqo: A shorter and easier hike that takes you to this beautiful Inca archaeological site, offering stunning views before descending into the Sacred Valley. After visiting the small town of Lamay, you will finally head to Machu Picchu.
Hiking the Inca Trail is one of the greatest experiences of your life. It is a journey through time, a deep connection with the history and culture of the Incas. Each step brings you closer to one of the wonders of the world, passing through breathtaking landscapes and archaeological sites full of mystery.
Plan your journey in advance, prepare properly, and embark on the adventure.
See you at the top!
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