The classic Inca trail is the most popular way to visit Machu Picchu, but due to limited spaces each day there is a lot of people who miss out. Currently the availability is very slim with only limited spaces left through July and then the next available dates are in August. These early months of the Inca trail sell out fast because it's dry season and because it has only just re-opened at the begining of March. Some people are given the impression that you only need to book the trail a month in advance, this all depends on the time of year you are planning on doing the trail. Late October to early December, there is a better chance of getting on the trail with shorter notice, however it is always best to book the trail with as much notice as you can give. With the month's of March and April there is possibility of booking a month in advance but the dates for these months sell speradically, and fast closer to the time. May is the first month to sell out, so If your future plans were to do the Inca trail in May you should book at the start of the year at the latest. For the Months of June through to September, you normally need to book at least 2 months in advance if not 3, this is mainley due to the trail being sold out through May and April, so they are the next available dates come the end of March. Christmas and New year, although in wet season, also sell out a month or 2 in advance.

All this said, for those of you who do miss out on the classic Inca trail, there are alternative treks going to Machu Picchu. These treks are more widely available without the need to book too far in advance, although through the middle of the year in dry season they get very busy. here is a brief description of the three alternative treks we offer:

Lares trek 4 days 3 nights – Trek through traditional villages, over mountain passes, past turquoise lakes and waterfalls before coming to the best hot springs in the area. Final day visit the mystical Machu Picchu.

Salkantay trek 5 days 4 nights – Trek through the Andes past beautiful snow-peaked mountains, then venture through jungle where you will have wonderful views of waterfalls and a variety of fruits and plants. Final day visit the mystical Machu
Picchu.

Vilcabamba trek 5 nights 5 days – Trek along traditional Inca trails and visit original Inca sites, while taking in the sights of all of the different plant life, animals and have spectacular views of snow-peaked mountains. Relax in hot springs after your trek before going to see the mystical Machu Picchu on your final day.

Even though these tours are all from Cusco this information is to help you to be informed of the situation before you get here, to try to avoide any disapointment.