Inca Trail Student Discount 2026: Prices, Requirements & How to Save
Hiking the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu is the adventure of a lifetime, but it doesn't have to break the bank. For 2026, university students can access an official student discount of $20 USD on their trekking permits.
In this updated guide, we explain the Inca Trail prices for 2026, the strict new document requirements, and how to ensure your student ID is accepted by the Peruvian government to secure your discount.
1. Inca Trail Prices 2026 (Official Rates)
Inca Trail pricing directly reflects service quality and compliance with labor laws in Peru.
| Service Type | Price Range (USD) |
|---|---|
| Standard Inca Trail | $700 - $850 |
| Luxury (Glamping) | $1,500 - $2,800+ |
| Student Discount | -$20 USD off the adult rate |
2. Critical Requirements for the Student Discount
To have your discount validated by the Peruvian government in 2026, strict rules apply:
- Age Limit: You must be under 25 years old (maximum 24 years and 11 months) at the time of starting the trek. If you turn 25 before day one, the adult rate applies.
- Valid University ID: Only the original PVC Student ID card with a valid 2026 expiration date is accepted. It must show your full name and university logo.
- ISIC Card Policy: ⚠️ Important: ISIC cards are no longer accepted. You must provide your official University ID.
3. What is Included in Your 2026 Expedition?
A high-quality tour must guarantee:
- Official Permits: Entrance to the Inca Trail and Machu Picchu (Circuits 1 or 2).
- Transportation: Hotel pickup, trailhead transfers, and the Tourist Return Train.
- Mountain Life: Professional camping gear, gourmet meals, and a team of porters treated with dignity.
4. Important Legal Notice (Government Policies)
The Inca Trail is regulated by the Peruvian State under strict conditions:
- Non-Refundable & Non-Transferable: Once the permit is issued under your name and passport, no changes are allowed.
- Physical ID Required: You must present your original student ID at all checkpoints. Failure to do so will result in denied entry.
"At Tierras Vivas, we specialize in student expeditions. If you are unsure if your ID is valid, send us a photo via WhatsApp and our experts will verify it for you for free."
BOOK YOUR STUDENT TREK 2026 NOW
Inca Trail Tours
Many are the routes that take you to Machu Picchu, but none is like the Inca Trail Tours, the most famous pedestrian path in the Americas. After flying from the capital of Perú, Lima, you will arrive in Cusco to walk for four days along a path through forests and dense fog, millenary stone steps and discovering the ruins of ancient fortifications and Inca cities, and all the time enjoying majestic views.
- Salkantay Trek
- Hiking the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu 5 days
- Inca Quarry Trail 4 Days
- 2 Day Inca Trail Tour
- 2 Day Inca Trail with Camping
- 3 Day Inca Trail
- Vilcabamba Hike to Machu Picchu 6 days
- Choquequirao trek to Machu Picchu 9 days
- Ausangate trek 7 days
If you want to visit Machu Picchu, we recommend you to book your Machu Picchu Ticket in advance, so you will enjoy your Vacation in Machu Picchu without any problem.
When is the best time to hike the Inca Trail?
The best season is during the dry season, which covers the months April to the end of September. In October the rains begin and you can find Machu Picchu covered by clouds. If you travel in June, we recommend you to book the Inti Raymi Tour that takes place in June 24th, and also hike the Palcoyo Mountain Tour, which is an incredible Rainbow Mountain located in the Andes.
