Before thinking about dates, backpacks, or physical exertion, there’s a question almost all travelers ask themselves, but few have a clear answer to: how do you actually get to the Inca Trail? Many believe it’s enough to be in Cusco, take a train, and start walking. The reality is different, and in more than one case, this misconception leads to ruined plans and wasted time.
In this blog, you’ll find everything you need to know before attempting the Inca Trail, from where it begins to what happens if you arrive without a ticket or prior reservation. If you’re planning this trek or simply want to understand how access works to one of Peru’s most controlled routes, keep reading. This information can make the difference between just reaching the starting point… or actually hiking the Inca Trail.
Where does the Inca Trail begin?
The classic Inca Trail begins at kilometer 82 of the Cusco–Machu Picchu railway , a point located near the town of Ollantaytambo . This place is known simply as Km 82 and is the official start of the most popular 4-day route to Machu Picchu . Here you’ll find the first checkpoint, where permits, passports, and authorized entry for each traveler are verified.
It’s important to know that not all Inca Trails begin at the same point . There are other sections, such as the 2-day Short Inca Trail , which starts at kilometer 104 , but they all have something in common: access is strictly controlled by the Peruvian government, unlike routes such as the Salkantay. This trek has a different entry system. You cannot enter freely or change your starting point at will. Each section has a defined start, limited daily capacity, and mandatory checkpoints.
Can anyone reach the start of the Inca Trail?
Yes, anyone can physically reach the starting point of the Inca Trail , either by road or train. Access up to kilometer 82 or kilometer 104 is not restricted as such, similar to what happens on longer routes like Choquequirao . Trekking , where the starting point doesn’t limit physical access. Many travelers reach these areas without problems because they are part of active tourist and railway routes.
However, reaching the trailhead doesn’t mean you can enter the Inca Trail . To hike the route, an official permit is mandatory , which can only be obtained through an authorized agency and months in advance. Without this permit, entry is completely prohibited, even if you are already standing in front of the checkpoint.
This is one of the most common misconceptions among travelers. Some believe they can arrive on their own and decide there whether to walk or not, but the reality is different. The controls are strict, and there are no exceptions. Therefore, understanding this difference from the beginning avoids misunderstandings, wasted time, and unnecessary expenses.
What do you need to enter the Inca Trail?
To enter the Inca Trail, simply arriving at the starting point or wanting to hike isn’t enough. An official entrance ticket , issued and controlled by Peruvian authorities, is mandatory. This is a clear difference from day trips like the Humantay Lagoon tour , where permits aren’t required months in advance . This ticket is the only document that authorizes access to the trail and is checked at checkpoints before the hike begins.
Entry to the Inca Trail has limited daily permits , meaning only a small number of people can enter each day, unlike popular routes such as the Rainbow Mountain tour , which offer much more flexible access . For this reason, tickets must be booked several months in advance , especially during peak season. Once permits are sold out, there is no way to enter, regardless of the travel date or whether you are already in Cusco.
Another important point is that this ticket is not sold to the general public . It cannot be purchased at ticket booths, official websites, or directly at the entrance. The entire system is designed to maintain order, protect the route, and prevent unauthorized access.
Who can book an entrance ticket to the Inca Trail?
Reservations for the Inca Trail can only be made through travel agencies authorized by the Peruvian government . These agencies are the only ones with access to the official reservation system and are the only ones legally authorized to manage travelers’ entry to the trail.
This means that travelers cannot purchase a ticket independently , even if they are already in Cusco, have time available, or have even reached the starting point of the Inca Trail. Without an authorized agency, there is no way to obtain the necessary permit to enter.
This control is neither optional nor flexible. It’s part of the Inca Trail’s conservation system and applies equally to everyone. Therefore, understanding who can make a reservation and how the process works is key before planning dates, transportation, or accommodation.
Is it mandatory to enter through an authorized travel agency?
Yes, it is mandatory to enter the Inca Trail with an authorized travel agency , without exception. This rule applies to all travelers, even those with trekking experience or who have completed similar routes in other countries. Experience level does not supersede the official entry requirements.
Independent access to the Inca Trail is not permitted . It is not possible to hike the trail on your own or purchase a permit separately. Only authorized agencies are permitted to guide and accompany groups throughout the entire trek, from the starting point to Machu Picchu. This includes supervision, monitoring, and ensuring compliance with all established regulations.
This system is not for commercial purposes, but rather for organizational and conservation purposes. It allows for controlling the number of visitors, protecting archaeological sites, and ensuring that all groups comply with the rules during the walk.
Is it possible to reach the Inca Trail without a ticket?
Yes, a person can physically reach the start of the Inca Trail without a ticket , either by train or road. However, they will not be allowed to enter the trail under any circumstances. Access without a reservation is strictly prohibited.
No tickets are sold at the checkpoint, and there are no waiting lists. If a traveler is not registered in the official system and does not present a valid permit, entry is immediately denied. Checks are strict and constant , and personal documents and reservations are reviewed before passage is permitted.
This point is key to avoiding misunderstandings. Arriving at the starting point without a ticket only means reaching the checkpoint, not starting the hike. Therefore, prior booking is essential and cannot be arranged once you arrive.
Frequently asked questions about how to get to the Inca Trail
What happens if I arrive in Cusco without having booked the Inca Trail in advance?
If you arrive in Cusco without a prior reservation, you will not be able to access the Inca Trail. Spots usually sell out months in advance, and there are no last-minute sales. In these cases, your only options are to consider alternative routes or change your travel dates.
How many days before the start of the trek should I arrive in Cusco to avoid any problems?
It’s best to arrive in Cusco at least two days before the start of the Inca Trail. This allows you to acclimatize to the altitude, attend the agency’s information session, and resolve any outstanding details without rushing.
Does transportation to the starting point always depart from Cusco, or can it vary depending on the agency?
Generally, transportation arranged by the agency departs from Cusco, but this can vary depending on the group’s logistics and the type of Inca Trail booked. Some agencies coordinate pickups at specific hotels or pre-arranged locations.
Is it possible to change the traveler’s name on the Inca Trail ticket if something unexpected happens?
No. Inca Trail tickets are personal and non-transferable . Once issued, names and other details cannot be changed, as they are linked to the identity document presented at the time of booking.
What documents do I need to bring on the day I head to the start of the Inca Trail?
It is mandatory to bring the original passport or identity document used to make the reservation. Without this document, entry will not be permitted, even if your ticket is confirmed.
Are there identity checks before entering the trail? Yes.
Mandatory identity checks are in place before starting the hike . The information on your document is verified against the official entry list, and any discrepancies may prevent access.
What happens if the weather prevents us from reaching the starting point on the scheduled day?
In exceptional cases, such as extreme weather conditions, the agency assesses the situation in conjunction with the authorities. However, rescheduling is not always possible, as quotas and dates are strictly limited.
Can I get to the starting point on my own and join the group there?
This is neither the usual practice nor recommended. Entry to the Inca Trail is organized and supervised by the agency. Arriving independently can lead to confusion and delays that may affect your access.
What happens if I miss the transportation arranged by the agency on the first day?
If you miss your transportation, you may also miss your entry to the Inca Trail. Schedules are strict, and checkpoints don’t wait. Therefore, it’s crucial to respect the points and times indicated by the agency.
Do agencies have fixed arrival times for the starting point, or do they depend on the season?
Schedules are usually very early and quite strict , but they can be adjusted slightly depending on the season, weather, and the day’s logistics. Even so, the margin for change is limited, and travelers are always informed in advance.