Inca Trail Policy

In an effort to preserve and protect the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, the Peruvian government limits the number of people on the trail. No more than 500 people (including support staff) are allowed on the Inca Trail per day, and this limit is strictly enforced. Additionally, the trail closes every February for cleaning and maintenance. This closure affects all trips which begin the Inca Trail portion of the itinerary on or after 1 February and before 28 February inclusive.

As responsible tourism is at the forefront of our business philosophy, we’re happy to work within the framework of these regulations in order to properly protect the Inca Trail and Machu Picchu.

The rules and regulations governing the Inca Trail and Machu Picchu are continually changing, and it’s important to be aware of the issues detailed in this document before booking and embarking on your Peru adventure.

As stated above, no more than 500 people per day are allowed to start the Inca Trail trek. This number includes all support staff (i.e. trekking guides, porters and cooks) and is very tightly controlled. Once the 500 permits have been allocated for the day, no further bookings can be made. No tour operator has pre-allocated spots, and permits cannot be held provisionally. All permits are issued strictly on a request basis and must be pre-booked in advance. Due to high demand, we recommend booking at least five to six months ahead – especially if you plan to travel during the peak season from May to August.

To purchase your permit, we require your complete and accurate passport information, which cannot be modified. For travellers holding two passports, details must be provided from the passport you will be travelling with. Any attempt to modify may result in the loss of the permit and all money paid.

In order to confirm a booking, we require a deposit and the following traveller information:

• Full name (exactly as it appears on the passport)

• Date of birth

• Passport number

• Nationality

• Date of passport expiry

• Passport place of issue

When we receive confirmation of your booking, we will attempt to purchase your Inca Trail permit. In the event that we’re unable to secure a permit, the following options will be offered:

• Hike the Quarry Trail: This is a 3-day/2-night loop trek that covers 26 km. The scenery is just as spectacular, but instead of finishing at the Sun Gate overlooking Machu Picchu, you’ll end in Ollantaytambo before taking the train to Aguas Calientes – the gateway town to Machu Picchu – where you'll stay the night in a hotel and visit the ruins the next day. All transportation, accommodation, guide services, etc. are included.

• Spend two nights in Cusco, then travel by train for a night in Aguas Calientes and visit Machu Picchu

• Change to an alternative departure or trip

• Cancel without penalty

Please note that as Inca Trail permits are non-refundable and non-transferable, any date change to confirmed trips which include the Inca Trail may incur cancellation fees.

If the Inca Trail portion of your chosen trip falls in February, the Quarry Trail will be booked automatically.

If you choose not to hike at all, please let us know at the time of booking so alternative arrangements can be made. Without this prior notice, fees may apply.

If changes to the current government policy affect our ability to provide access to the advertised itinerary, including the Inca Trail, we will endeavour to provide travellers with the best options available. Please also see clause 17 in our terms and conditions concerning our responsibilities.