The Inca Trai to Machu Picchu is a world famous trek in Peru. People spend a substantial amount of time getting mentally and physically prepared for this once in a lifetime experience. So, obviously to make this an unforgettable experience, you will want to make sure you choose the best Inca Trail tour operator for your adventure. One with a good reputation, that fits your budget, and that offers the style of trek you really want.
Choosing the right tour operator can greatly influence your experience, and that is why we have done the research for you. We have handpicked the best Inca Trail tour companies based on their solid reputation, years of experience, top-notch equipment, and satisfied customers.
With our recommended tour operators, you can rest assured that you will have a safe, comfortable, and unforgettable journey to the ancient ruins of Machu Picchu. So, let’s dive into our top picks and find the perfect tour operator for your adventure!
How to know if the Inca Trail company is licensed?
The Inca trail tour companies that operate in the Inca Trail Network must register and have the authorization of the National Service of Natural Protected Areas by the State (SERNANP) to operate officially. This year 2023 there are exactly 197travel companies operating the Inca trail.
We have put together a list (below) featuring some of the best TOP rated Inca Trail operators based in Peru, based on a few different criteria. This includes personal experience with a number of companies (be it trekking, kayaking or other); recommendations from friends and colleagues working within the Peruvian tourism industry, especially in Cusco; and positive reviews in travel guides like Machu Picchu Travel Guide, , google and travel websites, like TripAdvisor and travelers’ blogs.
There are also agencies that have been operating the Inca trail for many years, like Orange Nation and Sam Travel. These agencies are given a 7–10-year permit. The more established agencies are usually the ones that have groups every day and guarantee your trip to the Inca trail. They are the most reliable and dependable.
We don’t claim that this is a definitive list; there are certainly other tour companies, both new and old, that probably deserve to be featured here but aren’t. You can recommend a company in the comments section below and we can add that one too.
Other things to consider from a Best Rated Inca Trail Tour Operator
As noted earlier, there are plenty of Inca Trail operators out there. We suggest you browse their websites, have a look at whats on offer for yourself and get in contact them. This way you can test their efficiency and effectiveness.
As for non Peruvian international Inca Trail operators, they typically offer this trek as part of a larger package. These larger international tour operators often use local operators like Orange Nation Peru to actually run their Inca Trail treks.
Generally speaking, if you just want to book a trek along the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, it’s best to use a local company. But if you want a full travel package (e.g, Lima – Cusco – Machu Picchu – Lima, all inclusive), try companies like SAM CORPORATIONS. They offer package tours to all major spots around Peru. Including hot spots like Iquitos, Huacachina, Paracas, Puno, Areiquipa, Colca Canyon and Lake Titicaca among many other locations.
What requirements should a tour company meet to be an Inca Trail operator?
Inca Trail operator licences are only given to local Peruvian companies that have a business address in Cusco City. International travel trekking companies have to outsource their groups to local operators.
Also, Inca Trail tour companies should have storage facilities with all equipment needed for Inca Trail. Such as, first aid aquipment, dinning tents, kitchen tents, cooking equipment, mattress, and cloths for the porters. Sernanp (the entity in charge on Inca Trail), they visit each companies storage site yearly to supervise.
List of the Best Inca Trail Tour Operators, based on information from 2023 – 2024
1. Sam Travel Peru
Over 80 trips Completed | Regional Expert Service level: top
- Small intimate groups of 2 to 8 person
- Guaranted and Secure Trips
SAM TRAVEL PERÚ is a family-owned Travel Company & Tour Operator located in Cusco, Peru that creates customized uniquely designed adventure treks and tours to untouched wilderness places, OFF THE BEATEN TRACK, in the High Andes Mountains of Peru. Our many years of experience is demonstrated in our excellent reviews!
Explore website
2. Orange Nation Peru
Over 45 trips Completed | Regional Expert Service level: Standard
- Small intimate groups of 2 to 8 person
- Guaranted and Secure Trips
ORANGE NATION is Peruvian owned Travel Company that specializes in tour and trekking in Cusco Peru. They are experienced in offering small group personalized service for tours from the BREATHTAKING ANDES MOUNTAINS TO THE MAJESTIC MACHU PICCHU CITADEL. Making your experience beyond what even you could have dreamed!
Explore website
3. Spider Travel Peru
Over 45 trips Completed | Regional Expert Service level: Standard
- Small intimate groups of 2 to 8 person
- Guaranted and Secure Trips
SPIDER TRAVEL PERU is an innovative adventure travel company in Cusco Peru that offers UNPARALLELED EXPERIENCES TO UNTOUCHED WILDERNESS AREAS. Our adventure treks and tours are specific and carefully designed to cater to budget and personal needs!
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4. Glamping Peru Treks
Over 45 trips Completed | Regional Expert Service level: Luxury
- Small intimate groups of 2 to 8 person
- Guaranted and Secure Trips
Glamping Peru Treks creates treks and tours that offer unsurpassed luxury and comfort while hiking off the beaten track. All accommodations, food, and services are of the highest quality and standards. If you are looking for something UPSCALE AND LUXURIOUS while trekking or touring, this is the absolute best option for you. Do not be afraid to work with their service operators to create your dream personalized luxury trek or tour. The company group size averages 2 to 4 persons, not exceeding 8 people. If you love your privacy, be sure to ask for a private tour.
Explore websiteMore Inca Trail Tour companies to Consider:
- Wayki Trek
- Explorandes
- Llama Path
- Trek Experience
- Alpaca Tours
- XtremTourbulencia
How to know if a travel company is good?
We recommend you checkout tripadvisor reviews, independent blogs and if its actually a registered business. Each company offers a different type of service. Some lead large groups, whereas others lead smaller more personalized groups. The size is usually a big factor in determining pricing and service standard. I have come across sad group tours, with more than 20 people. At the front is the guide with his earpiece, relaying information as loud as he poosibly can. Whilst at the back is a few people who can´t hear a word of what is being said and I just wishing for the whole experience to end.
Note: Believe it or not, all travel agencies offer the Inca trail, even though they do not have a permit. Those who do not have permission, only pass their passengers to companies that have permission. It is not advisable to book with them. Better to book with a direct local company like Orange Nation Peru
There are 4 key you should be considered when you deal with Travel Agency
Professionalism
When looking for a local tour company based in Cusco, professionalism is the most inportant, and the best to proof it, is by reading the possitive reviews on TripAdvisor, Google, blogs and forums. Also make sure the communication skills are good and speedy asnweres.
You want a local travel company that is easy to deal and makes it clear what is included in their local tours.
Experience of years!
Look for a local tour company with years of experience and knowledge of the Inca trail and Inca cultural history. Having a local company and guides will make a big difference in your hiking experince.
Cost
The Inca Trail can vary widely depending on the company and your tour type normally the price will be around 750$
Book with a local tour operator
Book with a local tour operator that will add more value to your trip, an amazing local experience & better competitive price ( Orange Nation Peru ect)
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