INCA TRAIL PERMITS 2027
Inca Trail 2027 Permit Availability
Check Inca Trail availability for 2026 and 2027, plus everything you need to know for an unforgettable adventure: routes, permits, official rules, booking dates and the tours we operate.
500
people per day on the classic route, including guides, cooks and porters
250
daily spaces on the short route (Express and 2-day)
Permits
available only through licensed operators like Sakura Expedition
5–6 months
recommended booking lead time
INCA TRAIL PERMITS
What to know before you book
01
How do I book Inca Trail 2027 permits?
The entry permit is the first step in planning your Inca Trail trek. Without a valid permit you cannot enter the trail, even if your flights, hotels and other travel services are already booked.
The Inca Trail has a limit of 500 people per day. This includes trekkers as well as the licensed staff who accompany each group, such as guides, porters and cooks. Permits are regulated by Peru’s Ministry of Culture, and only licensed operators like Sakura Expedition can purchase tickets for the Inca Trail Network.
If you already have a date in mind, contact us early to plan your trip and register your request with an advance booking. Our team will follow the official sales process and secure your tickets as soon as sales open.
02
When should I book Inca Trail 2027 permits?
Advance bookings for the 2027 Inca Trail are now open for dates from January to December 2027, except February, when the trail closes for maintenance.
Peru’s Ministry of Culture will release the official 2027 permits between October and November 2026. The exact sales date has not been announced yet. In the meantime, you can make an advance booking with us and our team will secure your permit as soon as official sales open.
We recommend choosing a preferred date and, if possible, one or two alternative dates. That way we have other options to secure your permit if your first choice is not available when sales open.
03
How far in advance should I book the Inca Trail 2027?
We recommend planning 5 to 6 months ahead, especially for peak dates. Spaces are limited and can sell out quickly once sales open.
If you have a specific date in mind, contact us before the official release so we can prepare your booking in advance.
AVAILABILITY AND PERMITS
Check Inca Trail 2027 availability
Don’t let your ideal date sell out. Check Inca Trail availability and start planning your Machu Picchu adventure with our team.
Select your preferred month and check current Inca Trail availability. Permits are limited and availability can change quickly, especially in high season. When you find a date that suits your trip, contact our team to confirm the spaces and start planning your trek to Machu Picchu.
Short Inca Trail
Inca Trail Express and 2-Day Inca Trail · starting at Km 104
Classic Inca Trail
Classic 4-day route · starting at Km 82
Our tours
Inca Trail 2027 Tours
Compare the routes
Express, Short or Classic: which Inca Trail is right for you?
There are two official routes: the short route from km 104 and the classic route from km 82. The Express and the Short trek follow the same trail; the difference is how much time you spend at Machu Picchu.
| Express · 1 day | Short · 2 days Recommended |
Classic · 4 days | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Starting point | Km 104 (Chachabamba) | Km 104 (Chachabamba) | Km 82, near Ollantaytambo |
| Approx. distance | ≈ 12 km | ≈ 12 km | ≈ 42 km |
| Overnight | No overnight on the trail | 1 night in Aguas Calientes | 3 nights camping |
| Machu Picchu | Arrival through Inti Punku · Circuit 1 (route 1-B) and return the same day | Day 1: Circuit 1 (route 1-B) · Day 2: relaxed guided tour of Circuit 3 (route 3-B) | Arrival through Inti Punku on day 4 · Circuit 1 (route 1-B) + Circuit 3 (route 3-B) |
| Exclusive archaeological sites | Chachabamba, Wiñay Wayna and the Sun Gate (Inti Punku) | Chachabamba, Wiñay Wayna and the Sun Gate (Inti Punku) | Paucarcancha, Llactapata, Runkurakay, Sayacmarca, Intipata, Wiñay Wayna and the Sun Gate (Inti Punku) |
| Difficulty | Easy to moderate | Easy to moderate | Challenging |
| Daily spaces | 250 (short route) | 250 (short route) | 500, including support staff |
| Book | 3 to 4 months in advance | 3 to 4 months in advance | 5 to 6 months in advance |
| Best for | Tight itineraries | Couples, families with older children and friends: hike the trail without camping and enjoy the citadel at a relaxed pace | A full immersion in Inca history and a bigger challenge |
GET READY FOR AN UNFORGETTABLE EXPERIENCE
What you need to know to hike the Inca Trail in 2027
Hiking the Inca Trail is the best way to discover Machu Picchu. These tips will help make your trip safer and more memorable.
01
Itinerary and route options
The classic route is a 4-day trek starting at km 82 of the railway, near Ollantaytambo. The short route starts at km 104 and reaches Machu Picchu the same day.
02
Permits and bookings
You need a permit issued by the Peruvian government, which only a licensed operator can obtain. We handle it for you: just send us your full passport details well in advance.
03
Gear and preparation
Layered clothing, a waterproof jacket, hiking boots, a hat, gloves and a scarf. Bring a headlamp for early-morning starts and, on the classic route, a suitable sleeping bag.
04
Acclimatization and health
Arrive in Cusco at least two days before your trek to adjust to the altitude. Drink plenty of water and avoid alcohol and caffeine, which can make altitude sickness worse.
05
Guides and porters
You will hike with professional guides who share the history and meaning of each site, and with porters who carry the equipment and food under current labor protection rules.
06
Respect and conservation
Leave no trash behind and follow your guide’s instructions at archaeological sites. Take only photos and leave only footprints: leave the trail as you found it, or better.
Rules and restrictions
Official Inca Trail Rules 2027
The Inca Trail is part of the Historic Sanctuary of Machu Picchu, a protected area. These rules are checked at the entry points and along the trail.
Mandatory requirements
Travel with a licensed operator and an official guide. Hiking the Inca Trail independently is not allowed.
Named permit: it is issued with your full name, passport number, nationality, date of birth and sex, exactly as shown on your passport.
Carry the original passport used for the booking. If you renewed it, bring both the old and the new one.
Students: show your original ISIC international student card if you booked a student rate.
Respect the schedule: no hiking between 6:00 p.m. and 5:30 a.m.
Camp only in the areas assigned by the authorities and carry your waste to the end of the trail.
Not allowed
Trekking poles with metal or hard tips (only rubber tips are allowed) and walking sticks made from native wood.
Drones, umbrellas, tripods and selfie sticks.
Alcoholic drinks, drugs and stimulants.
Single-use plastics: bring a reusable bottle.
Littering, including organic waste, or leaving the authorized path.
Climbing, leaning on or scratching archaeological walls.
Removing plants or disturbing the sanctuary’s wildlife.
Pets, weapons, machetes, hunting or fishing gear, fuel and sound equipment.
Non-transferable permits
Permits cannot be transferred or refunded. An error in your details may prevent you from entering at the km 82 or km 104 checkpoint, so check them carefully before sending.
Entry to Machu Picchu
You arrive through Inti Punku and visit Circuit 1 (route 1-B). On the 2-day and 4-day treks, the permit includes a second entry through Circuit 3 (route 3-B) for the guided tour.
Rules may change
The Ministry of Culture may update the regulations. Your guide will brief you on any changes during the pre-trek briefing.
Good to know
Get ready for the adventure
The Inca Trail is challenging and deeply rewarding: long distances, stone staircases and landscapes that shift from mountains to cloud forest. Here’s how to arrive ready.
From booking to Machu Picchu
1
Choose your tour and date with the recommended lead time for your trek.
2
Send your passport details exactly as they appear on your passport; we use them to obtain your permit.
3
Arrive in Cusco two days early at least, to acclimatize to the altitude.
4
Attend the briefing with your guide: schedule, gear and trail rules.
5
Hike and celebrate your arrival at Machu Picchu through the Sun Gate (Inti Punku).
What to pack
· Original passport
· Layered clothing
· Waterproof jacket
· Hiking boots
· Hat and sunscreen
· Gloves and scarf
· Headlamp
· Reusable bottle
· Rubber-tipped trekking poles
· Sleeping bag (Classic)
· Personal medication
· Cash in soles
Stay hydrated throughout the hike and avoid alcohol and caffeine in the days before.
Inca Trail 2027 FAQ
How do Inca Trail 2027 permit sales work?
Inca Trail permits are subject to a limited quota. The Ministry of Culture has set a capacity of 500 people per day, which includes trekkers and the support staff accompanying each group, such as guides, porters and cooks.
Because of this limited capacity, permits are subject to availability and can sell out several months in advance, especially during high season in Cusco.
How do I get Inca Trail 2027 permits?
An entry permit is mandatory to hike the Inca Trail, whether you start at km 82, km 104 or km 106. Without a valid permit you cannot enter any of these routes.
Permits must be obtained through operators licensed by the Ministry of Culture, and not all agencies are licensed. Sakura Expedition holds the required authorization to manage and book permits, giving you the support you need to plan your trek in advance.
To do this, we will need your exact passport details: full name, passport number and nationality. They must match your passport exactly, as they will be checked on the trail.
What details do I need to book the Inca Trail 2027?
To process your permit, we need accurate and up-to-date passport details:
- Full name
- Passport number
- Nationality
This information must match your passport exactly, as it will be checked on the trail. Renewing your passport before you travel? Send us the new details as soon as you have them so we can update your booking.
Permits are personal: they cannot be transferred, resold or used in another person’s name. If the details do not match your passport, you may be denied access to the trail.
Which tours require an Inca Trail 2027 permit?
The official permit is required for all routes that follow the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu. At Sakura Expedition, these tours require it:
- Inca Trail Express Full Day
- 2-Day Inca Trail to Machu Picchu with Hotel
- 2-Day Private Inca Trail
- 4-Day Inca Trail
- 4-Day Private Inca Trail
- Super Sacred Valley & Inca Trail Connection 2 Days
- Sacred Valley & Short Inca Trail 4 Days
- Essential and Cultural Peru 10 Days
- Inca Trail & Amazon Adventure 12 Days
How much is the deposit for an Inca Trail 2027 advance booking?
To start processing your advance booking, we require a deposit of USD 300 per person. Once received, our team starts processing the permit for your requested date, and your sales advisor will keep you informed throughout the process.
Once the official permit has been purchased and confirmed, we will send you your full booking confirmation along with the service details. The remaining balance is arranged later with your advisor, according to the tour’s booking terms.
Important: permits are limited and subject to availability, so we recommend booking as early as possible.
Is it safe to book the Inca Trail 2027 in advance?
An advance booking lets you plan your trip early and have your permit request ready for when official sales open.
Final availability will depend on the official release and the quotas set by the Ministry of Culture. Our team will be ready to act from the first moment, booking permits as early as possible for your requested date. That is why we recommend giving a preferred date and one or two alternatives.
Once permits are released, we will update our calendar with the actual availability for each date.
What happens if I can’t get a permit for my preferred date?
We will process permits from the moment sales open and keep you updated on availability for your requested dates. Having a preferred date and one or two alternatives lets us look for other options if your first choice is no longer available.
And if none are available? This is unusual when you plan ahead, but there are several ways to reach Machu Picchu. We will let you know the available options and help you find an alternative that fits your plans.
When will Inca Trail 2027 permits be released?
The Ministry of Culture is expected to release them between October and November 2026.
Official 2027 permits are released by Peru’s Ministry of Culture. Based on the information available, they are expected between October and November 2026, although the exact date has not yet been announced.
You don’t need to wait: you can make your advance booking with us now. We register your date and secure your permit as soon as official sales open.
When do Inca Trail 2027 permits go on sale?
The exact date is not official yet; sales will open when the permits are released.
Sales will open when the Ministry of Culture releases the permits, expected between October and November 2026. From then on, our team will process permits based on the dates you gave us and official availability.
If you already have an advance booking, you don’t need to watch for the release: we take care of it and let you know the result.
How far ahead should I book the Inca Trail 2027?
5 to 6 months ahead, especially if you are traveling between April and July.
Permits are limited and can sell out several months in advance. Booking early improves your chances of getting the date you want and lets you plan the rest of your trip with peace of mind.
How do I book the Inca Trail 2027?
Choose your date, send us your passport details and secure your advance booking.
- Choose your dates: a preferred date and, if possible, one or two alternatives in case your first choice is unavailable.
- Send us your details: full name, passport number and nationality, exactly as they appear on your passport.
- Secure your advance booking with a deposit of USD 300 per person.
- We secure your permit as soon as the Ministry of Culture opens 2027 sales, and send you your full confirmation.
Is the Inca Trail open all year?
Yes, all year except February.
Advance bookings for 2027 are available from January to December, except February, when the trail is closed for maintenance.
Please note that, for safety reasons, the authorities may also temporarily close sections due to heavy rain or landslides. If this affects your date, we will let you know and help you with alternatives.
Why is the Inca Trail closed in February?
For trail maintenance and conservation.
Every February the trail closes for maintenance and conservation work. It is also the rainiest month in Cusco, so no entry dates are offered that month.
Machu Picchu remains open in February: if your trip falls in that month, we can help you visit it by other routes.
What is the difference between the 2-day and 4-day Inca Trail?
Both routes follow sections of the original Inca Trail and require an official permit. The differences are duration, distance and physical difficulty.
2 days: a great way to experience the Inca Trail on a shorter route. Ideal for couples, families with older children, friends or travelers who want to combine trekking, nature, archaeology and Machu Picchu. Easy to moderate difficulty with a reasonable fitness level.
4 days: a more complete and demanding trekking experience, with longer distances, more hours of hiking and a wider variety of landscapes and archaeological sites. Designed for those who love trekking.
For both, we recommend some physical preparation beforehand.
What is the difference between the Express and the 2-day Short Inca Trail?
It is the same route from km 104. On the 2-day trek you stay overnight in Aguas Calientes and visit the citadel at a relaxed pace the next day.
Which Machu Picchu circuit is included with the Inca Trail 2027 permit?
Access to Machu Picchu is organized into circuits and routes set by the Ministry of Culture. Your circuit depends on the trek you book:
1-day Inca Trail: arriving through the Sun Gate (Inti Punku), you visit Circuit 1, route 1-B, with panoramic views of the citadel from the upper section.
2-day / 1-night Short Inca Trail: on the first day, Circuit 1, route 1-B. On the second day, a new entry through Circuit 3, route 3-B, usually between 6:00 and 11:00 a.m., depending on the assigned time coordinated with your guide.
4-day / 3-night Classic Inca Trail: arriving through the Sun Gate, Circuit 1, route 1-B. Then a new entry through Circuit 3, route 3-B, for the guided tour inside, usually at 10:00 a.m.
In short
1 day: Circuit 1 (route 1-B)
2 days: Circuit 1 (route 1-B) + Circuit 3 (route 3-B)
4 days: Circuit 1 (route 1-B) + Circuit 3 (route 3-B)
How many people are in a group on the 1-day and 2-day Inca Trail?
For 2027 we run our tours in small groups of 2 to 6 travelers, for more personal attention throughout the trek. If a date has only 2 travelers, the tour still runs, subject to trail conditions and availability.
We also offer private and tailor-made services, ideal for families, couples, friends or travelers who want to customize the experience.
You enjoy the trail. Sakura takes care of the rest.
What will the Inca Trail cost in 2027?
Our 2027 rates are already set for the Inca Trail Full Day, the 2-day / 1-night and the 4-day / 3-night treks.
Published prices reflect the rates in effect when our tours were prepared. There is currently no official announcement from the Ministry of Culture about a price increase for 2027. If the Ministry announces any change, we will review it and let you know in good time, before any adjustment to advance sales.
Ready to hike to Machu Picchu in 2027?
Secure your permits today: spaces sell out months in advance.