Inca Trail 2027: Permits, Availability, Prices, and How to Book

The permits for the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu for 2027 are expected to go on sale in October 2026. Due to the high demand and the strict limit of 500 permits issued per day (including porters), it is strongly recommended to book with an authorized agency by mid-2026 to secure availability, especially for departures during the high season between May and August.

Availability and Bookings for 2027

Official permits: Reservations and permits for the Inca Trail 2027 can already be secured through the tour operator AB Expeditions, which has begun accepting bookings. It is highly recommended to reserve at least 6 to 8 months in advance, especially for departures in April, May, June, July, and August, which are the most popular months. For the Short Inca Trail (2 days), booking about 2 months in advance is generally recommended to secure availability.

Authorized operators: It is mandatory to hike the Inca Trail with a licensed tour operator; independent trekking is not permitted. Only authorized agencies are allowed to obtain official permits for visitors.

Main Routes

Classic Inca Trail (4 days / 3 nights): This is the most traditional route, covering approximately 42 kilometers from Piscacucho (Km 82) to the Sun Gate (Inti Punku) overlooking Machu Picchu. Due to its popularity, this route requires booking well in advance.

Short Inca Trail (2 days / 1 night): An excellent option for travelers with limited time or those looking for a moderate-level hike. The trek begins at Km 104, reaches Machu Picchu on the first day, and includes a guided visit to the citadel on the second day.

Other variations: There are also 5-day itineraries, which follow the same route as the classic 4-day trek but at a slower pace. Additionally, combined expeditions such as the Salkantay Trek + Inca Trail (7 days) are available for those seeking a longer adventure.

Important Information

Trail closure: Every year, the Inca Trail is closed during the entire month of February for maintenance and conservation work, as well as for safety reasons due to heavy seasonal rains.

Estimated price for the 4-day Inca Trail: The typical cost ranges from $750 to $950 USD per person for a group service. Prices may increase over time, as permit and operational costs tend to rise each year.

Estimated price for the 2 day inca trail: Costs vary depending on whether the service is group or private. The Short Inca Trail usually ranges from $475 to $750 USD, while the Classic 4-day Inca Trail is generally higher depending on the agency and the services included.

Requirements:

You will need a valid original passport for permit verification and checkpoints along the trail. When booking with an agency, you must provide your full name, passport number, gender, nationality, and date of birth. If you plan to renew your passport before 2027, make sure to coordinate the update with your travel agency.

Key Tips

Acclimatization: Arrive in Cusco at least 2–3 days before the trek to allow your body to adjust to the altitude and reduce the risk of altitude sickness.

Best time to travel: The period from May to September (the dry season) generally offers clear skies and excellent hiking conditions, although nights can be very cold at high altitude.