The Classic Inca Trail is the only trek to Machu Picchu that is controlled by a daily permit system. If you want to walk it in 2027, understanding how permits work is the single most important step in your planning.
How many permits are available?
The Peruvian Ministry of Culture limits the trail to 500 people per day, and that number includes guides, cooks and porters. In practice, only around 200 places a day are for trekkers. In high season (May to September) they sell out months in advance.
When should you book?
- May to September: book 5 to 6 months ahead, ideally as soon as your flights are fixed.
- March, April, October and November: 2 to 4 months ahead is usually enough.
- February: the trail is closed every year for maintenance.
Who can buy a permit?
Permits can only be bought through a licensed operator. They are personal and non-transferable: the name and passport number you give must match the document you carry on the trail. Once issued they cannot be changed, which is why a booking is non-refundable after confirmation.
What you need to book
- Full name exactly as in your passport, passport number and nationality.
- Date of birth and gender.
- Your preferred start date, plus one or two alternatives.
Plan B: no permits left
If your dates are sold out, there are excellent alternatives that do not need a permit: the Salkantay Trek 4 days, the Lares Trek 4 days and the Choquequirao Trek 5 days. You can also walk the Short Inca Trail 2 days on a separate permit category that sometimes has space when the classic route is full.
Check availability today
Dates change daily. You can check Inca Trail availability or send a booking request and we will confirm space for your group before asking for any payment. See the Classic Inca Trail 4 days for the day-by-day itinerary.
