How To Make An Inca Trail Reservation

Now that you’ve learnt everything about the incredible Inca Trail hike, perhaps you are now looking at how to book your own trip here.

Overall booking an Inca Trail trip is simple, although there are some important things you’ll need to know before doing so.

In this guide we’ll show you how you can make your own Inca Trail reservation, and things to keep in mind such as booking in advance as well as other insider tips that we will share.

Making An Inca Trail Reservation

Quick Answer: Firstly it’s important to browse between different companies to find the right one for you. This includes learning more about what trips are offered, and also what’s included.

Once you are happy and ready to book, you can then make an Inca Trail reservation. Overall it’s wise to book dates for at least 6 months in advance. Not only can you guarantee both your permit and preferred camping spot, you’ll also be able to secure cheaper flights too (last-minute trips to Peru can get quite costly at certain times of the year).

As always you can ask questions before and after making a reservation, and we ourselves here at ABExpeditions are available 24/7 to help you in any way that you need.

Do You Need To Book The Inca Trail?

Unlike other trips and treks throughout Cusco and the rest of Peru, the Inca Trail must be booked well in advance.

Firstly this is in order to comply with regulations set by several Peruvian organizations (such as the Peruvian Ministry of Culture who manages the Inca Trail). This is so they make sure the limit of 500 permits is not surpassed at any one-time, and also to keep everything organized well.

Secondly, booking the Inca Trail in advance is actually a benefit rather than a problem. It will give you more time to properly prepare for your trek such as getting into good shape, and also time to invest in good hiking gear.

When Is The Best Time To Book An Inca Trail Reservation?

Overall we recommend booking your Inca Trail ticket at least 6 months in advance. This will guarantee your permit, and also allow you to pick the best dates for you.

You’ll also be able to get the very best camping spots such as those of Wiñay Wayna and Chaquicocha, which are the most popular and tend to sell-out quickly. Keep in mind that only one individual booking is needed on any tour date to guarantee your camping preferences, so you don’t need to wait for a whole group to sign up!

Making your reservation 6 months in advance is also ideal for other reasons. Not only can you find cheaper flights, you’ll also have more time to organize time-off from work, and also plan other trips and treks around Cusco (and the rest of Peru).

Can You Do The Inca Trail For Free?

Unfortunately hiking the Inca Trail for free is not possible. The main entrance and exit points are guarded, which are done so in order to protect both the hikers on the path as well as the conditions of the Inca Trail (which includes the ruins found along the route).

Safety is also another important reason why you will need to pay to head on the Inca Trail. This path remains a wild environment with all kinds of weather, animals and sometimes tricky parts to hike through. This means you’ll need an experienced guide to show you along the way, who knows where the campsites are and how to avoid any accidents or issues here.