Frequently Asked Questions of the Inca Trail Peru
The Inca Trail is one of the most famous and most sought after Trek routes in Perú. Perhaps you are thinking of doing this hike and have some doubts.
Here we have the most frequently asked questions about the Inca Trail Peru, which will help you better plan your adventure.
Is the Inca Trail open all year?
The Inca Trail in its various 4-day accesses as well as the short 2-day version are open every day of the year except for the month of February. That month, the rainiest of the year, road maintenance and cleaning work is carried out on the route.
Can the Inca Trail be done without a Tour Guide and Travel Agency?
No, since 2001 it is not possible to do the Inca Trail without the company of an official tour guide.
Therefore, you must contract the services of an official agency that operates the authorized Inca trail.
How long does it take to finish the available spaces?
The 500 permits per day are reserved well in advance. Due to the high demand and therefore it is recommended to book the Inca Trail permits 6 to 5 months in advance, with the most requested dates from May to August.
The 2-day Inca Trail, on the other hand, is 250 permits per day, it can be reserved 1 month or weeks in advance. According to the availability of the one-way train to the starting point.
What to do if I can’t find availability?
In case you do not find availability of the 4-day Inca Trail, in Cusco andean hike you can find different options to do other similar hiking trails, such as Lares trek + short Inca trail 4D-3N.
This very little-known hiking route in Cusco, but you have the option of reaching Puerta del Sol by the short version of the Inca Trail route and observing Machu Picchu from the distance.
Other good options are: the 5-day salkantay trek, the 4-day Huchuy Qosqo trek.
Is there an age limit?
No, anyone can do the Inca Trail, both in its 4-day and 2-day versions. However, both adventures are not recommended for children under 8 years of age and adults over 65 years of age (prior medical consultation).
Can I find Inca Trail permits once in Cusco?
No, the 4-day Inca Trail cannot be booked in Cusco, due to the fact that it takes a long time to plan. On the other hand, the 2-day Inca Trail can be purchased once in Cusco, just a few days in advance. (Previous availability of trains and permits of the Inca trail 2d-1n).
Can I only book the Inca Trail online?
Yes, the 4-day Inca Trail, due to the high demand for permits, can only be reserved online. If you live in the city of Cusco, you can approach an authorized Inca Trail tour operator.