Currently, a maximum of 500 hikers are allowed on the trail per day, including personnel (this accounts for approximately 200 tourists and 300 staff). This number is strictly adhered to, and permits are sold on a first-come-first-served basis.

Note that the Inca Trail is closed for the entire month of February every year for maintenance.

Due to the daily limit on the number of people entering the Inca Trail, it is advisable to book as far in advance as possible, ideally at least three months in advance (in the low season, some last-minute spots may sometimes be available). From May to September, you should book at least five or six months in advance. So, plan, book early, and avoid added stress.

Tours can be arranged through a number of tour companies in Cusco, and most cost between $400 and $500, which includes the entrance fee to Machu Picchu ($50 for adults, $25 for students and free for children under 11), transportation to and from the trail, an English-speaking guide, tents, mattress, three daily meals and porters who carry group gear.For about $50 extra/trip a personal porter can be hired to carry your personal gear. If you’re inclined (and it’s recommended) you can tip your porters and guides. Independent travelers will generally be placed with a mixed group of travelers, and groups tend to be between 12 and 16 people. For premium-class service, groups are generally smaller and an upgrade on the return train is included.

Be cautious if the price is under $400, as the company may be cutting corners, or not adhering to the strict environmental regulations recently imposed. Only purchase your ticket from officially licensed agencies and be sure to make your payments at the physical tour agency office. Direct any questions you may have regarding a tour company to the regional tourism office in Cusco, Dircetur (Portal Mantas 117-A. Tel: 235-123/222-032, E-mail: cusco@dirceturcusco.gob.be), who keep a database of complaints about tour operators.

You can save a little money by arranging your own transport back to Ollantaytambo, either for the last day of your tour, or by staying an extra night in Aguas Calientes and taking the early morning train, then catching a bus back to Cusco.

If you do take the train back to Cusco after your tour, make sure your return ticket has your name on it for the tourist train, or you will have to pay for any changes. Be sure to inquire if the guide for the Inca Trail and Machu Picchu will be the same, as some companies save money by sending a less experienced guide on the trail and hiring a new, certified guide at Machu Picchu.

When To Go

The single most important factor in planning your Inca Trail experience is making sure you give yourself plenty of time to acclimatize to the high altitude before attempting the physically demanding trail. The best way to avoid altitude sickness is to spend at least a few days in the Sacred Valley area-which is slightly lower in elevation-or in Cusco, which is higher. The first two days of the trek involve arduous ascents, so take acclimatization seriously.

Usually, the best months for trekking the Inca trail are April and May, when the weather is fine and skies are clear. From June to September, the trail is a busy stretch of mountainside, with people from all over the world flocking to its rugged peaks and lush valleys. During the rainy season, from October to April, it is less busy but for obvious reasons, slightly wetter. Again, the trail is closed for the whole of February.

For a truly unique experience on the Inca Trail, try to depart two to three days before a full moon. According to the locals, the weather is best at this time and at night the Andean skyline is fully illuminated by the moonlight.

What to expect

The popular 4-day trek will take you along the ancient stone Inca highway, past dozens of archaeological sites, rushing rivers and uncountable views of the cloud forest and eye-captivating mountain scenery. Along this 43-kilometer trek, you will tackle three formidable mountain passes and cruise to a maximum altitude of 4,200 meters (13,780 ft). The trek begins at Qorihuayrachina near Ollantaytambo, often referred to as Km. 88 of the Cusco railway.

Another, slightly less intense version of the classic four-day trek is also growing in popularity. The two-day version, referred to as the Camino Sagrado del Inca, or “Sacred Trail,” or “Camino Real de los Inkas”, is a good alternative for time-pressed or fitness-deficient individuals. Along this journey you’ll reach a maximum altitude of only 2,750 meters (9,000 ft), which involve less arduous ascents, yet still leads to the wondrous mountain-mecca, Machu Picchu.

This mini-trek begins at km 104, just 14 kilometers (8.7 mi) away from the ruins, and groups spend the night near the ruins of Wiñay Wayna before departing at sunrise for the gates of Machu Picchu. However, if you’re looking for divine mountain scenery, then the four-day trek is your best bet, as most of the best views and ruins are not included in the two-day tour.

Here are other activities in and around The Inca Trail that may be of interest: Four-Day Inca Trail Trek, Inca Trail Porters,