Tour Availability & Permits
The Inca Trail requires an official government permit issued by the Peruvian Ministry of Culture. Permits are limited and sell out months in advance, especially during high season (May to September). We strongly recommend booking as early as possible to secure your preferred date. Once confirmed, permits are non-transferable and valid only for the assigned date.
Pre-Trek Briefing
A mandatory briefing takes place at 6:00 p.m. the evening before departure at our office in Cusco. During this meeting, you will meet your guide, review final details, and receive your duffel bag for the trek.
Physical Requirements
The 5-day Inca Trail is considered moderately challenging. Although the pace is more relaxed than the 4-day version, you will hike multiple days at high altitude and cross mountain passes above 4,000 meters (13,000+ ft). A good level of physical fitness is recommended. Spending at least 2 days in Cusco before the trek helps with altitude acclimatization.
Altitude Information
The highest point of the trek is Dead Woman’s Pass at 4,215 meters (13,821 ft). Campsites range between 2,900 m and 3,680 m. Staying hydrated and walking at a steady pace helps prevent altitude discomfort.
Accommodation
You will camp for three nights along the Inca Trail in high-quality tents shared by two people. On the fourth night, you will stay in a comfortable 3-star hotel in Aguas Calientes before visiting Machu Picchu.
Meals & Dietary Restrictions
All meals during the trek are freshly prepared by our trekking chefs. We accommodate vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and other dietary requirements with advance notice. Lunch on the final day in Aguas Calientes is not included.
Transportation
The tour includes private transportation from Cusco to KM 82, bus tickets between Machu Picchu and Aguas Calientes, tourist train from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo, and private transfer back to Cusco.
Weather Conditions
Weather in the Andes can change quickly. Days may be warm and sunny, while nights can be cold, especially at higher elevations. The dry season runs from April to October, and the rainy season from November to March.
Machu Picchu Visit
On the final day, you will enjoy a guided tour of Machu Picchu lasting approximately two hours, followed by free time to explore. Optional Huayna Picchu tickets must be reserved in advance due to limited availability.
