Inca Trail – Sometimes You Need To Book Early To Get A Space

Inca Trail is among the most popular trail across South America. Due to its increasing popularity, it became overwhelmed. The Peruvian government has introduced a new policy to guard the trail against over-use. The new rules limit the number of hikers who can use the trail.

In 2005, the new rules went into force. Since then, getting an area on the Inca trail is becoming ever more difficult. Today, you need to reserve a space three months in advance if plan to visit for 5 days of vacation on Inca Trail during peak season. 

inca trail tours 5 days

The Peruvian government announced its new rules in the year 2002 (Resolution Ndeg 02- 2003-UGM-CD). However, the government began to enforce all of the provisions of this rule starting in 2005. The new regulations stipulate that in the course of a day, the maximum number of people who are allowed to use the Inca trail is 500. Only 200 of them are trekkers, the rest include cooks, porters, and guides.

Another significant aspect of this policy is that the trekking businesses operating on the Inca Trail must possess an operating license that is granted each calendar year, in the month of March. Additionally, all trekking firms must be local and establish a headquarters in Peru. You want to book early because only 500 people are allowed to use the trail daily and spaces are filled rapidly. 

In the high season (April through September) all 500 spots were filled two or three months ahead. If you're thinking that when you get to Peru and decide to pick an operator and then hike the trail, you will be disappointed and could have to return without hiking the Inca trail. You must therefore make reservations well in advance.