How far in advance should I book the 4-day Inca Trail hike? We're planning to go mid-May 2012.

Thanks!

Hi

My name is Sami

I recomend you separate with 6 months in advance.
Do you want to go with a agency from your country, or travel with a peruvian agency.

May is not peak season personally find something locally
with a licensed provider of quality approved by

andeantravelweb.com for up to 50% off.

incalandadventures.com qente.com $300 for me last

if money is no object

perutreks.com llamapath.com are your top 2

they will pressure you to book way in advance.

careful many online touts scammers like #1 on the boards

always pay with CC never wire money and insuremytrip.com

Happy Planning,

May is not the peak season, but it's busy enough that I wouldn't wait until arriving in Cusco to arrange something. You'll see signs for last-minute departures, but can't guarantee that they'll fit into your schedule. I would at least start contacting tour operators late this year for May 2012.

I was definitely planning to book it prior to leaving. Looks like I'll wait until later this year. (I would have tried to book earlier - always trying to err on the side of caution!)

The Inka trail has to be donewith a local authorized agency.
I suggest you book as far ahead as possible as you will not get any discounts by waiting for last minute bookings.Prices are set and if you pay to low, you will be provided with a lowsy service.
The Inka Trail is a one in a lifetime experience, and as such, it deserves to fork out some $$.

Hi shutterbug85,

It's always best to book as early as you can - once you know your travel dates, then go ahead and book it. The Inca Trail is limited to 500 people per day (that includes porters, guides, cooks, and trekkers) by the Peruvian government. May is a shoulder season month, not as busy as June-August, but still very busy.

You can book when you arrive in Cusco, if there are still spots left on the days you want, but I've seen the Inca Trail sell out weeks or even months in advance. You don't HAVE to book with a local authorized agency, because many larger tour companies can negotiate prices with the authorities and book for you, which allows you to book ahead of time.

I do not believe you can book the Inca Trail for 2012 until January 2012, so wait until then! But as Jeff_Costa_Rica says, you can start talking with tour companies and doing your research to get the rest of your trip planned out this year.

Happy travels!

Kaitlin
www.SouthAmerica.travel