Aussie travellers looking to visit Peru next year have been advised to start planning ahead.
The Peruvian government limits access to the Inca Trail to just 500 people per day, including passengers, porters and guides.
That leaves only around 200 permits available for travellers, with demand often exceeding supply months ahead.
As 2027 bookings start to ramp up, Intrepid is reminding travellers that securing an Inca Trail permit takes more planning than many realise.
Intrepid secures permits on travellers’ behalf, but bookings should be made five to six months before departure, particularly for the peak May to September season.
Permits are issued first come, first served and are linked to a traveller’s passport, so correct details are essential at the time of booking.
Peru is one of Intrepid’s most popular destinations for Australian travellers this year, sitting sixth on the list. The seven-day Inca Trail Express remains the most booked Peru trip on offer.
Maritza Chacacanta, Trek Manager at Intrepid Travel, said walking the Inca Trail is often a dream years in the making.
“Our travellers tell us every day it’s the one experience they’ve always wanted, which is why it’s so disappointing when permits have already sold out,” she said.
Ms Chacacanta added that missing out on a permit does not mean missing out on Peru.
“Some of my favourite routes are the Quarry Trail and the Salkantay Trek. They take travellers through incredible mountain landscapes, offer a quieter experience and still finish at Machu Picchu,” she said.
The seven-day ‘Inca Trail Express’ runs Cusco to Cusco, with fares from $1,611, and includes the choice of trekking the Inca Trail, the Quarry Trail or taking the train to Machu Picchu.
