Machu Picchu FAQ: Is it necessary to book the Inca Trail in advance?

Yes, it certainly is. To prevent erosion and over-usage, the Peruvian government has placed a limit on the number of people that can hike the Inca Trail at any given time. A maximum of 500 hikers, including both tourists and trekking staff, can start the trail each day (let's say staff accounts for 50%). Thus, with only 250 permits issued daily, the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu frequently books out -and in high season, this is a certainty.

You can book the Inca Trail through your Travel Agent. Our advise is to make it at least 5 months in advance. The current entrance fee for the classic 4-day Inca Trail to Machu Picchu is about US$ 80 (students with a valid ID have a 50% discount).

In PromPerú's website (Peru's Tourism Authority), you find the complete rates and booking conditions (Spanish only).

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