What Are The Inca Trail Rules?
All hikes have their own challenges and important things to keep in mind, and the Inca Trail is no exception. Here we will not only have to follow safety advice from our expedition group, however we will also have to follow certain rules that are enforced by both national and international organizations.
In this guide we’ll explore the different rules of the Inca Trail, including details of each one. We’ll also look at why these rules are there in the first place, and the potential consequences of breaking them.
Table of Contents
What Are The Inca Trail Rules?
Below we’ll look at the current Inca Trail rules, and other specifics you need to know before heading on the route. It’s important to remember that your expedition company will cover these all for you (as well as brief you on any others if needed).
The Use Of The Inca Trail Path
A maximum of 500 people per day are allowed to be on the Inca Trail at any one time, all of whom must have an authorized ticket as well as their original document with them (such as a passport). This ticket will need to be shown at the official entry point (usually on Km 82 for the Full 4 Day Inca Trail trek), where your application must have already been registered and paid for at least 48 hours before your entry date.
Once you have been admitted, you must stick to the official path laid out before you, and not veer off at any time (both for your safety and to protect the ruins and surrounding environment). The trail is only walkable between 5:00am until 7:00pm, unless there is an emergency or unique exception.
Flexibility Rules Of The Inca Trail
As you may already know, the Inca Trail is closed every February in order to allow restoration efforts to take place. However, there may be additional periods that either restrict or even close the trail at times, which are usually informed 30 days prior.
It’s also important to know that it’s not possible to extend or change your Inca Trail route dates once at the control centre.
Protecting The Local Environment
As well as sticking to marked paths, you will only be able to camp in designated areas such as that of Ayapata. This is to help preserve both local flora and fauna, which are protected by the Natural World Heritage Convention.
All rubbish and waste must be carried and disposed of outside of the Inca Trail, and here at ABExpeditions we will have a dedicated member of staff for this role. You can of course use public facilities like showers and toilets along the way, however you cannot damage them in any way.
Prohibited Items On The Inca Trail
- Firearms or any items that can be classed as weapons (axes, machetes etc)
- Fuel
- Alcohol or Drugs
- Metal-tipped Canes (you can bring rubber protectors to put over these which are fine)
- Drones or unauthorized Professional Filming Equipment
- Sounds Disturbance Items (such as instruments or loudspeakers)
- Domestic and Exotic Animals
- Glass Containers
Whilst not strictly an item, it’s also illegal to make bonfires anywhere on the Inca Trail. This can severely damage both the ruins as well as the natural environment.
How And Why Are These Rules Enforced On The Inca Trail?
There are several reasons. Firstly we have the rules imposed by national bodies here in Peru, whose aim is to keep both the sites and people who hike along it safe. These include groups such as the Ministry of Culture, Ministry of Tourism, DIRCETUR and SERNANP.
We also have global organizations such as UNESCO, who have recognised the path as both a site of Cultural and Natural World Heritage. This means that the rules will also be implemented to preserve both the ancient ruins and beautiful flora and fauna that we will see along the way (and also for future generations to come).
If any of the rules are broken along the Inca Trail at any time, then the responsible organization will be notified and the exact punishment or fine for the act will be given.
What Are The Inca Trail Rules?
And that’s all for this guide on what the rules of the Inca Trail are.
Most important historical sites have a number of regulations to help preserve its legacy as well as to keep tourists safe. The Inca Trail is no exception, with a number of enforced rules that range from entry requirements to items that are forbidden along the route.
Are you wondering if the Inca Trail is dangerous to hike? Then be sure to read on to learn how to stay safe when walking this incredible path.