Ticket Machupicchu Book Now!
TicketMachupicchu.com
Inca Trail 20 articles
Sale of spaces for the Inca Trail
Click to rate article

Are there spaces available for the Inca Trail 2026?

The Inca Trail is a 4-day, 3-night hiking route that ends at the Historic Sanctuary of Machu Picchu. This route is recognized as one of the best hikes in the world. Its capacity is very limited, so we recommend booking the experience as soon as possible; typically, it should be done 6 months in advance. This way, you not only secure a spot to experience this adventure but also to see the stunning world wonder.

Machu Picchu Tickets 2026
Hurry up! the last entries
Book now!
Entrance to Machu Picchu through the Inca Trail
The Inca Trail to Machu Picchu

Do you want to take the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu? The Inca Trail is only available to be undertaken with an authorized tour agency. These regulations by the Ministry of Culture of Peru aim to better control the influx of visitors, as well as to protect and preserve the historical paths of the Inca Trail.

Are there available spaces for the Inca Trail?

  • The Inca Trail experience allows the entry of 500 people daily. However, of this number, 300 tickets are reserved for the support team of the hike. Therefore, only 200 tickets are available for tourists who want to visit Machu Picchu through the Inca Trail each day.
  • The low number of available spots makes it necessary to purchase the Inca Trail entry in advance. It is recommended to book your Inca Trail entry 6 months in advance. For the Short Inca Trail, a reservation 1 or 2 months before is sufficient.
  • Visitors who wish to purchase their entry to the Inca Trail for the following year should make the purchase starting in October (this is when the sale of Inca Trail entries begins).

Check the availability calendar to see if there are free spaces:

  • Select the type of Inca Trail you prefer: the ‘Classic 4-day’ version or the ‘Short 2-day’ version.
  • Select the month and day you wish to start the Inca Trail route.
  • Check if there is current availability for the Inca Trail on the chosen date.
  • If no availability is found, choose a different date (it is recommended to make the purchase 6 months in advance).

How many versions of the Inca Trail are there?

  • There are 2 versions of the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu: the ‘Classic’ 4-day hike and the ‘Short’ 2-day hike. Both follow ancient paths built hundreds of years ago by the Inca civilization and allow entry to the Inca City of Machu Picchu at the end of the route.
  • The 4-day Classic Inca Trail is preferred by tourists who want a more immersive and intense experience. This is mainly due to the adventure it represents and the many incredible places visited along the way.
  • The 2-day Short Inca Trail is an ideal option for tourists who do not have much vacation time or who couldn’t secure a spot on the Classic Trail in time. You will still experience the historic adventure, but with more ease and less effort.

The 4-Day Classic Inca Trail

The Classic Inca Trail is a 4-day, 3-night experience that covers approximately 43 kilometers of historic paths through Andean and tropical landscapes, providing a broader view of the biodiversity surrounding Machu Picchu.

During the trek, you will also visit exclusive archaeological sites, such as: Llactapata, Runkurakay, Sayacmarca, Phuyupatamarca, Intipata, Wiñay Wayna, Inti Punku, and of course, Machu Picchu. The entrance to the Inca City is through the famous Sun Gate (Inti Punku), the original entryway during Inca times.

MAIN FEATURES OF THE 4-DAY CLASSIC INCA TRAIL
FeatureDescription
Route typeNatural and archaeological path
Duration4 days / 3 nights
Total distanceApproximately 43 kilometers / 26 miles
DifficultyChallenging
Maximum altitude4,215 meters above sea level (Warmiwañusca Pass)
ClimateVariable, cold in high areas and temperate in the jungle
AvailabilityYear-round except February
Exclusive archaeological sitesLlactapata, Runkurakay, Sayacmarca, Phuyupatamarca, Intipata, Wiñay Wayna, Inti Punku, and Machu Picchu
Arrival at Machu PicchuOn the fourth day of hiking via the Sun Gate (Inti Punku)
Capacity200 tourists per day
Experience typeHiking, camping, adventure, history, culture
Recommended forTravelers interested in history and trekking
Booking5 to 6 months in advance

The 2-Day Short Inca Trail

The Short Inca Trail is a 2-day, 1-night experience covering only 11 kilometers. The hike takes place on the first day, arriving at Machu Picchu in the evening through the Inti Punku gate. The exclusive archaeological sites on this route are Chachabamba and Wiñay Wayna.

Unlike the classic option, the night is spent in a hotel in Aguas Calientes. Additionally, it includes an immersive visit to Machu Picchu on the second day of the experience.

MAIN FEATURES OF THE 2-DAY SHORT INCA TRAIL
FeatureDescription
Route typeArchaeological and natural path
Duration2 days / 1 night
Total distanceApproximately 11 kilometers / 6.8 miles
DifficultyModerate
Maximum altitude2,720 meters above sea level
ClimateTemperate, mainly in tropical areas
AvailabilityYear-round except for February
Exclusive archaeological sitesChachabamba, Wiñay Wayna, Inti Punku, and Machu Picchu
Arrival at Machu PicchuOn the first day of hiking via the Sun Gate (Inti Punku)
Capacity120 tourists per day
Experience typeHiking, adventure, history, culture
Recommended forTravelers with limited time and interested in trekking
Booking1 or 2 months in advance

How to obtain Inca Trail permits?

  • Inca Trail permits can only be obtained through an authorized travel agency. These regulations by the Ministry of Culture of Peru were implemented to improve the control of visitor entry and ensure the safety of tourists. This also helps preserve the trails and archaeological sites along the route.
  • Tour agencies provide, along with the entry to the Inca Trail, the following: full transportation, meals, porters, camping equipment, professional guide, Machu Picchu entry, and everything necessary for the experience.

What is the Inca Trail like?

  • The historic Inca Trail is commonly known as one of the best hikes the world has to offer. While the route requires prior experience, it is very safe, and anyone with a great attitude can overcome it.
  • Each tourist will walk 43 kilometers in 3 days (on the last day, you visit Machu Picchu and return to Cusco by train). The highest point of the hike is at Warmiwañusca, at 4,215 meters above sea level (13,828 ft).
  • The nights are spent in well-equipped campsites where you can rest under the stars. All meals during the route are included.
  • From the highest point, you begin the descent to the Peruvian cloud forest where Machu Picchu is located. Keep in mind that this is the only hike that will take you directly to Intipunku, just like the Incas did centuries ago.
  • After 3 days of hiking and camping, tourists will visit Machu Picchu on the morning of day 4. Then, you take the return train journey from Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu town) to Ollantaytambo, and from there to the city of Cusco.
The Inca trail covered by mist
Inca Trail paths

Questions and answers about the availability of the Inca Trail 2026

  • 1) How many kilometers is the Inca Trail?

    The Inca Trail is a 43-kilometer tourist route. This distance is covered in 4 days of hiking and 3 nights of rest at campsites.

  • 2) Is the Inca Trail closed in 2026?

    The Inca Trail remains open throughout 2026 except for February, when it is closed to preserve the route.

  • 3) Where does the Inca Trail start and where does it end?

    The Inca Trail starts at kilometer 82 of the railway that connects Ollantaytambo with Aguas Calientes. The end is the Machu Picchu citadel, passing through the Inti Punku gate after hiking 43 kilometers.

  • 4) Is the Inca Trail available for all ages?

    Yes, although it is recommended for visitors in good physical condition or with hiking experience. Therefore, it is advised that visitors be over 8 years old and under 65 years old.

  • 5) How much does the Inca Trail tour cost?

    The 4-day Inca Trail tour to Machu Picchu costs approximately 795 dollars per person. This price may vary depending on the number of people accompanying you on the experience.

  • 6) Is the Inca Trail dangerous?

    No, the Inca Trail is a safe hike if you follow all the instructions given by the tour guide accompanying you. You should not deviate from the route or approach the cliffs.

  • 7) Did the Incas build the Inca Trail?

    Yes, the Inca Trail is part of the qhapac ñan, or Inca royal roads built during the reign of Emperor Pachacutec (1418 – 1471).

  • 8) How far in advance should I buy the Inca Trail tour?

    The 4-day Inca Trail tour is highly requested by tourists worldwide. Therefore, it is recommended to purchase it online 5 or 6 months in advance.

  • 9) Do Peruvians get discounts on the Inca Trail?

    Yes, Peruvians receive a special discount for the 4-day Inca Trail tour to Machu Picchu. Check the prices with each tour agency in Cusco.

  • 10) Which tour agency should I use for the Inca Trail?

    The Inca Trail tour is ideally taken with Boletomachupicchu, whose years of experience ensure the quality of their service. Book now and experience an unforgettable adventure on the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu.

Advice from people who have been there

Inca Trail to Machu Picchu

Laura ABy: Laura A

“The last day of the hike is spectacular!“

“To be honest, we only did the last stage of the hike, the short hike, so I can't speak about the rest of the route, but what we saw was incredibly beautiful and interesting. We passed by two very impressive archaeological sites and saw a waterfall. I'm not in great shape, but I was able to do the hike quite easily, so I recommend everyone to do it. It's something you need to see with your own eyes.“


 

By Ticket Machu Picchu – Last updated, January 20, 2026

 


Everything you need to visit Machu Picchu is here!

Your ticket to Machu Picchu

This ticket is the only ticket that allows entering the Wonder of the World. Reserve your income easily and securely. Remember that there are discounts for university students, minors and citizens of Peru, Colombia, Ecuador and Bolivia.

Your transport to the train station

Do not you know how to approach the train station? Book the transfer to the station and forget the subject. The services leave and return punctually from the city of Cusco. Choose between shared or private options.

Your Train Ticket to Machu Picchu

The train trip is the safest, fastest and most convenient way to get to Machu Picchu. Choose between the two Expedition and Vistadome services. Pay with a discount for children and avoid the hassle of queuing in Cusco to purchase this ticket.

Your Bus Ticket to Machu Picchu

The last section to reach Machu Picchu is on a bus trip from Aguas Calientes. Choose the trip to climb, return or both. Avoid long queues the day of your visit. Take advantage of discounts for children and travel safely.

Your Official Tourist Guide

The visit to Machu Picchu with a tour guide is the best way to know the Wonder of the World. Choose between the shared or private option and in the language of your choice: English, Spanish, Portuguese or French. Here are the best guides of Peru.

Tour to Machu Picchu All Included

Forget the tickets, preparations and entrust your trip to Machu Picchu to the experts. The tours offer pick up, transfer, train ticket, bus, tour guide and entrance to Machu Picchu. There is also option to enter Huayna Picchu and lunch buffet.