All companies managing the Inca Trail must be certified and have an Inca Trail operators license. This license is issued annually each December. There are currently 226 registered operators (2024), with new agencies springing up each year. Many of these companies, however, may only operate a trek a couple of times a month during the high season and these treks are mainly private groups for overseas tour companies. Before you hurriedly sign up with any agency, its vital to comprehend some things about the industry. The most important thing is, that not all agencies are licensed tour operators. There are two types of companies that will try and sell you an Inca Trail package: registered tour operators and middle men, otherwise known as endosars. The registered tour operators are a small quantity that run, sell, and operate their own Inca Trail packages. The advocate that you speak with are the ones you will be working with directly, so if you any concerns you can go to them directly.
When making a Inca Trail booking you will be asked to pay a deposit of about 50%. This is needed by the company to buy your Inca Trail permit and reserve your train tickets to Machu Picchu. Always ensure that this deposit is paid to a company account and not to an account in the name of one of the employees. All companies listed in Part 1 below are well established and recommended in at least one major guidebook so you shouldn't have any problems. Many accept payment of the deposit by credit card or PayPal to their company account.
At the end of the day its all about your experience!
Machupicchu tickets to the Inca Trail must be reserved with a minimum of 5 or 6 months before. However, if you plan to visit during May, June or July; You must make your Inca Trail book 2024 at least 7 or 8 months in advance.
2 day Inca Trail tickets are not that hard to get. It is recommended to make the reservation weeks in advance. In the months of May, June or July; try to reserve a month before.
for the Inca Trail is crucial to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. we can offer some general guidelines to help you find a trustworthy Inca Trail tour operator:
Determine your preferences: Consider factors such as the duration of the trek, level of difficulty, group size, amenities, and additional activities offered. Having a clear idea of what you're looking for will help you narrow down your options.
Research and read reviews: Look for reviews and testimonials from previous travelers who have used the services of various tour operators. Check popular travel websites, forums, and social media platforms for feedback on their experiences. The most important is TripAdvisor.
Inclusions and exclusions: Understand what is included in the tour package and any additional costs you might incur. Check if they provide camping gear, meals, transportation, entrance fees, and other necessary services. Compare the offerings of different operators to make an informed decision.
Price and value: While it's essential to consider the price, don't solely base your decision on it. Focus on the value provided, including the quality of services, reputation, expertise, and overall experience offered by the tour operator.
Verify licenses and permits: Ensure that the tour operator is licensed and authorized to operate Inca Trail Tours. Ask for their permit number and verify it with the appropriate authorities. Licensed operators adhere to regulations and offer a higher level of reliability.
Evaluate safety measures: Inquire about the safety measures implemented by the tour operator. Ask about the training provided to guides and support staff, availability of first aid kits and emergency protocols, and equipment maintenance. A reliable operator prioritizes the safety and well-being of their clients.
Assess environmental and cultural sustainability practices: Look for tour operators that promote responsible tourism, respect local cultures, and follow environmentally sustainable practices. Responsible operators minimize their impact on the environment and support the local communities.
Seek recommendations: Ask for recommendations from friends, family, or fellow travelers who have previously done the Inca Trail. Their first-hand experiences and suggestions can be valuable in making an informed decision.
By following these steps, you'll be able to gather information, compare different tour operators, and make an informed decision based on your preferences and requirements. Remember to book your Inca Trail Tour well in advance, as permits are limited and can sell out quickly, especially during peak seasons.
The following Inca Trail trekking companies have received consistently good reviews:
