Inca Trail regulations
Inca Trail Regulations — Updated 2025/2026
The Inca Trail to Machu Picchu is the most iconic trekking route in Peru. Due to high demand and the need to protect both the archaeological heritage and the high-altitude ecosystems, access is strictly controlled by the Ministry of Culture (Peru) and SERNANP (National Service of Natural Protected Areas). Only approved operators may conduct treks along authorized routes.
Culturas Perú Viajes y Servicios S.R. Ltda. is a licensed local operator of the Inca Trail.
- Daily Visitor Limit and Staff Quota
- A maximum of 500 people per day are allowed on the trail (including tourists, guides, cooks, and porters).
- This limit applies to all authorized routes to Machu Picchu, including the 4-day Classic Inca Trail, 2-day/1-night short routes, and other variants.
- Permit Changes for 2025-2026
- a) Access to Machu Picchu Citadel / Circuits
- As of May 27, 2025, new Inca Trail permits no longer automatically include full access to the Machu Picchu citadel via Circuit 3 for all routes.
- For 2026 permits, a new regulation (Ministerial Resolution No. 000306-2025-MC) introduces Article 15-B: it establishes a special category for trekkers arriving via the Inca Trail to access the Machu Picchu citadel through Circuit 3-B, with strict capacity limits. Note that in 2024, travelers were required to purchase an additional entrance ticket to visit Machu Picchu.
- Hikers who have already booked permits before the change date may retain their previous access rights; new bookings should carefully verify which circuits are included.
- b) Permit Release & Booking Timeline
- The release of Inca Trail permits for the following year is scheduled early, typically around November 2025 for the next year.
- Permits sell out rapidly, especially in high season (April-September); early booking is essential.
- Route Closures & Maintenance
- The Inca Trail is closed every February for conservation, vegetation restoration and infrastructure maintenance. See our alternative hikes.
- Authorities may also close the trail temporarily due to heavy rain, landslides or other natural risks.
- Reservations & Personal Data Requirements
- Bookings must include: full name, nationality, gender, date of birth, and passport number exactly as printed.
- Mismatches between permit data and passport may cause denial of access at checkpoints.
- Permits cannot be transferred or refunded.
- Group Size & Support Staff Regulations
- Maximum group size: 16 trekkers per licensed guide; groups over 8 may require two guides.
- Porters: Under updated regulations, they are allowed to carry a maximum of 14 kg total weight (or equivalent as per new limits in camp regulation).
- Authorities assign the route and campsites; trek operators must follow designated campsites and regulations.
- Prohibited Items & Behaviour
To protect the trail and archaeological site, the following items and behaviors are not allowed:
- Firearms, hunting, or trapping equipment
- Metal poles, wooden canes from protected species
- Domestic animals, drones, professional filming equipment
- Fuel, kerosene, and fires in unauthorized areas
- Sound equipment and loudspeakers
- Defacing walls, vandalism, and destroying archaeological artifacts
- Deviating from authorized trail, sleeping outside permitted zones
Violations could lead to removal from the site, fines, or legal action by the Ministry of Culture.
- Trekking Etiquette & Sustainability
- Trek solely with licensed operators who adhere to trail safety and conservation standards.
- Use tent, mat, and equipment provided by the operator; dispose of all solid waste and follow Leave-No-Trace principles.
- Respect the trail, do not disturb archaeological remains, stay in designated campsites, and follow guide instructions.
- Book your spot early and confirm details of your Machu Picchu access (such as which circuit you will enter).
- Key Highlights for Clients of Culturas Perú
As your local licensed operator, we guarantee:
- Valid Inca Trail permits under your name with correct passport information.
- Timely booking and secure payment for permits
- Detailed guidance on which Machu Picchu circuit your permit covers
- Full support for porter regulations, top-quality campsites, and excellent food and equipment
- Real-time updates on trail closures or regulatory changes
Please see the alternative routes.
