Are you dreaming of hiking the legendary Inca Trail to Machu Picchu but feeling overwhelmed by the number of tour companies available? You’re not alone!
As of 2025, there are 226 officially authorized Inca Trail tour operators in Peru, each offering different packages, prices, and levels of service. With so many choices, it can be challenging to decide which company truly offers the best experience — one that combines safety, sustainability, knowledgeable guides, and excellent customer care.
In this updated 2025–2026 guide, we’ll help you find the best Inca Trail tour companies that stand out for their professionalism, reputation, and commitment to responsible tourism. You’ll also discover:
- The Top Inca Trail Operators recommended for an unforgettable hiking experience.
- The essential factors to consider before choosing your trekking agency — including permits, equipment, guides, and ethical practices.
- A complete, updated list of all authorized Inca Trail companies for 2025 and 2026, verified by the Peruvian authorities.
Whether you’re a first-time traveler or an experienced trekker, this guide will help you confidently choose a reliable Inca Trail tour company that matches your travel style and expectations.
So, lace up your boots and get ready to discover the best tour operators for the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu — your unforgettable Andean adventure awaits!
How to Choose the Right Inca Trail Tour Operator
Selecting the ideal Inca Trail company can make the difference between an unforgettable adventure and a disappointing experience. When evaluating your options, consider these essential factors to ensure your journey to Machu Picchu is safe, ethical, and truly memorable.
Ethical Treatment of Porters
One of the most important aspects to look at when choosing an Inca Trail operator is how they treat their porters — the unsung heroes of the trail.
A responsible company ensures fair wages, proper food, decent accommodation, and reasonable weight limits for the loads they carry. Always choose a tour provider that demonstrates respect and care for its porter team, as their well-being directly impacts the overall quality of your trekking experience.
Quality and Condition of Equipment
The gear provided by your tour company — from tents and sleeping mats to cooking equipment — plays a major role in your comfort and safety along the trail.
Top-rated Inca Trail operators regularly maintain and upgrade their equipment, ensuring it’s clean, reliable, and suitable for the varying Andean weather conditions. High-quality gear can turn a challenging hike into an enjoyable adventure.
Group Size and Guide-to-Traveler Ratio
Smaller hiking groups offer a more personalized experience and better access to your guides.
Companies that limit their group sizes to around 8–12 trekkers often provide more attention, flexibility, and stronger camaraderie among participants. Large groups may feel less intimate and slower-moving, which can impact your overall enjoyment of the trek.
Safety Standards and Professional Expertise
Safety should always be a top priority when hiking the Inca Trail. Reputable companies employ experienced, certified guides trained in first aid, altitude sickness management, and emergency response.
Make sure your operator carries oxygen tanks, satellite communication devices, and other emergency equipment. A company with a long track record of successful expeditions is usually a trustworthy choice.
Flexibility and Customization Options
Every traveler is different — and the best Inca Trail companies understand that.
Look for tour operators that offer custom itineraries, special dietary options, and the ability to adjust pace or logistics to match your group’s needs. Whether you’re an avid hiker or a first-timer, flexibility ensures a smoother, more enjoyable trekking experience.
Verified Online Reviews and Reputation
Before booking, always check recent online reviews on platforms such as TripAdvisor, Google, and TourRadar.
Authentic feedback from other travelers can reveal a lot about a company’s reliability, service quality, and ethical practices. Consistently positive ratings and genuine traveler testimonials are strong indicators of a reputable Inca Trail operator.
Top 10 Best Inca Trail Tour Companies in Peru
Choosing the right Inca Trail tour company is essential for ensuring a safe, memorable, and ethically responsible journey to Machu Picchu. Below, you’ll find a list of some of the top-rated and officially authorized tour operators in Peru for 2025–2026 — known for their professionalism, sustainability, and excellent service.
Tunqui Expeditions – Responsible & Sustainable Travel
Founded by Silvio Tunqui, a local guide and tourism expert from the Poques community in the Sacred Valley, Tunqui Expeditions is a proudly Peruvian-owned company focused on authentic, sustainable travel experiences. They emphasize small group adventures, organic local cuisine, and deep cultural connections with Andean communities.
Tunqui Expeditions stands out for its commitment to responsible tourism, ensuring fair treatment of porters and eco-friendly trekking practices. If you’re looking for a genuine and ethical Inca Trail experience with a true local touch — this is an excellent choice.
Website: www.tunquiexpeditions.com
Price: Inca Trail 4 Days – from $795 USD
Group Size: Maximum of 12 people
G Adventures – Global Leader in Sustainable Travel
A worldwide favorite, G Adventures is known for its strong sustainability standards and well-organized small-group adventures. Their Inca Trail to Machu Picchu tours offer reliable logistics, expert local guides, and community-based experiences that support local economies.
Perfect for travelers who value eco-conscious tourism and a professionally run international operator.
Website: www.gadventures.com
Price: Inca Trail 4 Days – from $780 USD
Group Size: Maximum of 16 people
Intrepid Travel – Responsible and Immersive Experiences
Intrepid Travel, is another global leader in responsible travel. Their Inca Trail packages are designed to balance comfort, culture, and sustainability, with a focus on supporting local communities and reducing environmental impact.
They’re ideal for adventurers who want a socially responsible trekking experience with a trusted, international brand.
Website: www.intrepidtravel.com
Price: Inca Trail 4 Days – from $1101.00 USD
Group Size: Maximum of 8 people
Exodus Travels – Expertly Guided Adventure Holidays
With decades of experience organizing adventure tours worldwide, Exodus Travels offers a premium Inca Trail experience. Expect professional guides, quality camping gear, and an excellent support team. Their small group sizes make for a more intimate journey through the Andes.
Website: www.exodustravels.com
Price: Inca Trail 4 Days – from $1775.00 USD
Group Size: Maximum of 12 people
AB Expeditions – Locally Owned and Authentic Local Experience
AB Expeditions is a Cusco-based operator that provides customizable Inca Trail and alternative treks. They focus on small groups, flexible itineraries, and high-quality service — perfect for travelers who value a more personalized and less commercial experience.
Website: www.abexpeditions.com
Price: Inca Trail 4 Days – from $795 USD
Group Size: Maximum of 16 people
Alpaca Expeditions – Top-Rated and Highly Reviewed
One of the most recognized Inca Trail companies in Cusco, Alpaca Expeditions is known for its exceptional porter welfare programs, high-quality camping equipment, and superb food. Their guides are friendly, knowledgeable, and fluent in English.
This company is frequently ranked among the best Inca Trail tour operators on TripAdvisor and Google.
Website: www.alpacaexpeditions.com
Price: Inca Trail 4 Days – from $795 USD
Group Size: Maximum of 16 people
Salkantay Trekking – Specialists in Classic and Alternative Routes
Although famous for the Salkantay Trek, this company also operates Inca Trail tours with high standards of safety and comfort. They provide top-quality gear, professional chefs, and diverse itinerary options that combine culture, adventure, and luxury.
Website: www.salkantaytrekking.com
Price: Inca Trail 4 Days – from $795 USD
Group Size: Maximum of 12 people
TreXperience Peru – Sustainable and Socially Conscious
Founded by a former guide, TreXperience Peru combines adventure with social responsibility. The company invests in local communities, supports educational programs, and offers one of the most well-managed Inca Trail services in the region.
Website: www.trexperienceperu.com
Price: Inca Trail 4 Days – from $795 USD
Group Size: Maximum of 16 people
Apus Peru – Tailor-Made Small Group Adventures
Apus Peru specializes in off-the-beaten-path trekking and personalized experiences. With a strong focus on responsible travel and porter welfare, they’re an excellent choice for travelers seeking a more private, authentic experience.
Website: www.apus-peru.com
Price: Inca Trail 4 Days – from $1299 USD
Group Size: Maximum of 08 people
Wayki Trek – Authentic Cultural Journeys
Wayki Trek offers a blend of adventure and cultural immersion. Their small group tours emphasize Andean traditions, local interaction, and sustainable practices. A great choice for travelers who want to connect deeply with Peruvian culture.
Website: www.waykitrek.net
Price: Inca Trail 4 Days – from $1,200.00 USD
Group Size: Maximum of 6 people
Honorable Mentions
- Llama Path – Renowned for high-quality service and ethical standards.
- Amazonas Explorer – Specialists in luxury adventure and active travel.
- Inkayni Peru Tours – Friendly team with great attention to detail.
- Sam Travel Peru – Reliable operator with diverse Inca Trail packages.
- Action Peru Trek – Locally run company offering personalized treks.
Frequently Asked Questions About Inca Trail Tour Companies
If you’re planning to hike the legendary Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, you probably have a few questions before booking your trek. Below, we answer some of the most common queries travelers ask about Inca Trail tour companies in Peru, helping you make an informed and confident decision.
How do I know if a tour company is officially authorized to operate on the Inca Trail?
Only companies that hold an official license from the Peruvian Ministry of Culture are authorized to operate treks on the Classic Inca Trail. These permits are renewed every year.
Before booking, always check the company’s website or ask them directly for their official authorization number. You can also verify it through the official government list of licensed Inca Trail operators for 2025–2026.
When should I book my Inca Trail tour?
Permits for the Inca Trail are strictly limited and sell out quickly — especially for the peak months of May to September. It’s best to book at least 7–8 months in advance to secure your spot. Reputable companies will handle the permit application process on your behalf once your booking is confirmed.
What’s included in an Inca Trail tour package?
Most Inca Trail packages include:
- Entry permits for the trail and Machu Picchu
- Professional bilingual guides
- All meals during the trek (often freshly cooked and locally sourced)
- Camping equipment (tents, mats, dining tents, etc.)
- Porter service to carry shared equipment
- Transportation to and from Cusco
Some companies also include hotel accommodation, airport transfers, or Huayna Picchu tickets for an additional fee.
Are porters treated fairly by all companies?
Unfortunately, not all companies treat porters fairly. It’s essential to choose a tour operator that prioritizes porter welfare, ensuring they receive fair wages, proper meals, and appropriate gear.
Ethical companies such as Tunqui Expeditions, Ab Expeditions, and TreXperience Peru are well-known for their responsible tourism policies and commitment to porter well-being.
How difficult is the Inca Trail hike?
The Inca Trail is considered a moderate to challenging trek, depending on your fitness level. The route covers approximately 42 kilometers (26 miles) over 4 days, with high-altitude passes reaching up to 4,200 meters (13,800 feet).
Most travelers can complete it with some prior hiking preparation and good acclimatization in Cusco.
What happens if I can’t finish the trek?
If you’re unable to continue the trek due to altitude sickness or injury, your guide and company staff will assist you in safely returning to Cusco or Aguas Calientes.
Reputable operators always carry first-aid kits, oxygen tanks, and communication devices to handle emergencies.
Can I hike the Inca Trail without a guide or tour company?
No. Since 2001, independent trekking on the Inca Trail has been prohibited by Peruvian law. All hikers must be accompanied by a licensed tour operator with authorized guides and porters.
What are the best alternatives if Inca Trail permits are sold out?
If the Inca Trail is fully booked, don’t worry! Peru offers several spectacular alternative routes, such as:
- Salkantay Trek – More scenic and less crowded.
- Lares Trek – Cultural and community-focused.
- Inca Quarry Trail – Shorter and off-the-beaten-path.
Many licensed companies offer these routes with similar high-quality service and Machu Picchu access.
How much should I expect to pay for a quality Inca Trail tour?
Prices vary depending on the level of service and company reputation. Generally, reliable Inca Trail tours cost between $700 and $1,200 USD for the 4-day trek.
Be cautious of very cheap offers — they often indicate poor equipment, underpaid porters, or lack of proper licensing.
What makes a good Inca Trail tour company?
- A trustworthy Inca Trail operator should be:
- Officially licensed
- Committed to fair treatment of porters
- Transparent about prices and inclusions
- Highly rated by travelers on TripAdvisor and Google
- Focused on sustainability and safety
Choosing wisely ensures your Machu Picchu trek is not only enjoyable but also supports local communities and the environment.
Inca Trail Tour Companies (Full List 2025–2026)
Discover the complete list of officially licensed Inca Trail tour companies operating in Cusco, Peru. Each of these operators is authorized to lead treks along the legendary route to Machu Picchu, ensuring safety, sustainability, and authentic Andean experiences. Use this directory to find the right company for your adventure on the Classic Inca Trail, Short Inca Trail, or alternative routes across the Sacred Valley.
| Company 1 | Company 2 | Company 3 | Company 4 | Company 5 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| AB Expeditions E.I.R.L. | Action Peru Treks E.I.R.L. | ADV Gregory Cusco Peru S.A.C. | Adventours-SAS E.I.R.L. | Adventure Peru Tour Operator S.A.C. |
| Agencia De Viajes Ecotime Peru E.I.R.L. | Agencia De Viajes Y Turismo Apu Salkantay E.I.R.L. | Agencia De Viajes Y Turismo Ethnias Peru E.I.R.L. | Agencia De Viajes Y Turismo Peru Top Adventure S.R.L. | Agencia De Viajes Y Turismo Raices Tours E.I.R.L. |
| Agencia Prueba S.A.C. | Agencia Turismo K.B. Adventures S.A.C. | Allyn Pacha Travel E.I.R.L. | Alpaca Expeditions E.I.R.L. | Alpaca Tours Peru E.I.R.L. |
| Altura Travel S.A.C. | Amazin Adventures E.I.R.L. | Amazon Andes Peru S.C.R.L. | Amazonas Explorer S.A.C. | America Trek S.A.C. |
| Andean Adventures S.R.L. | Andean Amazon E.I.R.L. | Andean Expeditions & Adventures S.A.C. | Andean Killa Tours S.A.C. | Andean Treks & Adventures S.A.C. |
| Andean Hiking | Andes Amazon Trails Peru E.I.R.L. | Andina Travel Treks & Eco Adventure E.I.R.L. | Apu Andino Travel E.I.R.L. | Apu Travel Service E.I.R.L. |
| Apumayo Expediciones S.A.C. | Apus Peru Adventure Travel Specialists S.A.C. | Auqui Mountain Spirit E.I.R.L. | Auqui Peru Mountain Spirit E.I.R.L. | Ausangate Travels S.R.L. |
| Aventuras Ecotrek Peru E.I.R.L. | Aventuras X-Treme Tourbulencia En Cusco E.I.R.L. | Andean Spiritual Path E.I.R.L. | Best Andes Travel S.R.L. | Caminos De Llama S.A.C. |
| Camping Tours E.I.R.L. | Ceci’s Travel E.I.R.L. | Chaska Tours Agencia De Viajes Y Turismo E.I.R.L. | Chaski Tours S.A.C. | Conde Travel E.I.R.L. |
| Condor Travel S.A.C. | Corporation BECRI S.A.C. | Crossover Peru S.A.C. | Cultural Immersion Travel Peru E.I.R.L. | Culturas Peru Viajes Y Servicios S.R.L. |
| Cusco Native Travel Agency E.I.R.L. | Cusco Peruvian Adventures S.A.C. | Cusco Sunrise Peru Trek Tour Operator E.I.R.L. | Cusi Travel International S.C.R.L. | DHSG E.I.R.L. |
| Daily Tours E.I.R.L. | Danzak Peru E.I.R.L. | Destinos Turisticos Group Peru S.A.C. | Discover South America E.I.R.L. | Eco Path Trek E.I.R.L. |
| Eco Wayky’s Tour Aventura E.I.R.L. | Ecoandes Adventures S.R.L. | Inkanatura Travel S.A.C. | Inkayni Peru Tours S.C.R.L. | Instinct S.C.R.L. |
| Intense Peru S.A.C. | Inti Kuntur E.I.R.L. | Into Paths | Inti Sun Trek E.I.R.L. | Inversiones Inca Trail Reservations E.I.R.L. |
| Inversiones Arsa Tours S.R.L. | Inversiones Cusco Explorer’s E.I.R.L. | Inversiones En Turismo Coavoy Peru Travel E.I.R.L. | Inversiones Mako’s S.R.L. | Inversiones Receptour S.A. |
| Inversiones TP E.I.R.L. | Inversiones Turisticas Andean Explorer’s Cusco E.I.R.L. | Inversiones Turisticas K’intu E.I.R.Ltda. | Inversiones Turisticas Maza E.I.R.L. | Inversiones Turisticas Peruinca Explorer E.I.R.L. |
| Inversiones Unitours S.A.C. | Ittacca Experience S.A.C. | Inca Trail Company S.A.C. | Journey Experience S.A.C. | Karavaniers Peru E.I.R.L. |
| Katachillay Travel E.I.R.L. | Kaypi Peru S.R.L. | Killa Expeditions E.I.R.L. | Kondor Path Tours E.I.R.L. | Kusa Treks Peru E.I.R.L. |
| Kusisqa Travel E.I.R.L. | Liberty Peru S.A.C. | Lima Tours S.A.C. | Llama Path E.I.R.L. | Llama Tours Peru S.R.L. |
| Lorenzo Expeditions E.I.R.L. | Machete Tours S.R.L. | Machu Picchu INC E.I.R.L. | Machupicchu & Beyond E.I.R.L. | Machupicchu Mega Travel E.I.R.L. |
| Machupicchu Reservations S.A.C. | Peru Andes Top Grupo | Path of the Andes E.I.R.L. | Peru By Locals S.A.C. | Peru Eco Adventures And Cultural Trips E.I.R.L. |
| Peru Fantastic Travel E.I.R.L. | Peru Grand Travel E.I.R.L. | Peru Inka’s Collection S.R.L. | Peru Nao Tours S.A.C. | Peru On Road E.I.R.L. |
| Peru Top Times S.R.L. | Peru Sur Nativa E.I.R.L. | Peru Tours And Adventure S.A.C. | Peru Tours Incorporation S.A.C. | Peru Travel Conexion S.A.C. |
| Peru Travel And Healing S.A.C. | Peru View Tours S.R.L. | Peru Winayhuayna Adventure E.I.R.L. | Peru XP Travel S.A.C. | Peruvian Highland Trek Expedition E.I.R.L. |
| Peruvian Sacred & Adventure S.R.L. | Peru Travel Dos Manos S.R.L. | Private Machupicchu E.I.R.L. | Pukupuku Travel S.R.L. | Pumadventures S.A.C. |
| Pumapath Adventures Peru E.I.R.L. | Peru Unique Destination E.I.R.L. | Qhapaqnan Adventure S.A.C. | Quechua Treks Peru E.I.R.L. | Quechuas Expeditions Peru S.A.C. |
| Q’ente South American Trek Tours E.I.R.L. | Raices Peru Operadores Mayoristas S.A.C. | Rasgos Cusco Tours Operator E.I.R.L. | River Explorers E.I.R.L. | Royal Crown Adventures E.I.R.L. |
| Saca Expeditions Servicios Turisticos S.C.R.L. | Salkantay Trekking E.I.R.L. | Sam Travel Peru Expeditions E.I.R.L. | Scenic Peru E.I.R.L. | Sky Viajes Y Turismo S.R.L. |
| South Adventure Peru Tours E.I.R.L. | South American Travel Services S.R.L. | Southern Peru Explorers E.I.R.L. | Southwild S.A.C. | Sun Gate Tours S.A.C. |
| Sunshine Travel Peru E.I.R.L. | Terra Explorer Peru E.I.R.L. | Tierra Biru Expeditions S.A.C. | Tierras De Los Andes S.A.C. | Tierras Vivas E.I.R.L. |
| Tour in Peru E.I.R.L. | Trexperience Peru E.I.R.L. | Tucano Corporation S.A.C. | Tucano Representaciones Peru Latin Trails S.A.C. | Tucanos Peru E.I.R.L. |
| Tunqui Expeditions E.I.R.L. | Turismo Perufull E.I.R.L. | United Mice Tour Operator E.I.R.L. | Valencia Travel Agency S.A.C. | Valentin’s Pachamama Journeys S.R.L. |
| Vamos Expeditions S.A.C. | Viajes Colon E.I.R.L. | Viajes Pacifico S.A.C. | Viajes y Servicios Turisticos Flamenco S.A.C. | Viracocha Turismo Internacional S.A.C. |
| Wake Up Peru Trekking E.I.R.L. | Wari Adventures S.A.C. | Wayki Trek Transportes Turisticos S.A.C. | Welcome South America Travel E.I.R.L. | Worldwide Exotic Adventures S.A.C. |
| Www Happy Gringo Tours E.I.R.L. | Yupi Adventure E.I.R.L. |
