I'm not a betting person and I hope the encouraging words from Douglas, Ana and Stefan somehow bring you luck, but I would bet money that you won't get on the trail you desire. ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- For your benefit...any anyone else who asks this question...here is the big answer on how the Inca Trail works these days: ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- The permit system for the 'original' Inca trail that you mention is strictly controlled and limited to 500 permits per day - that includes porters, cooks and guides, not just tourists. So there are really only between 200-250 permits a day for tourists. The permits are given to approved tour operators only, and are on a first-come, first-serve basis. Essentially the Ministry of Culture in Peru controls this now, and determines when certain time frames go on sale. Right now you can buy permits up to January 2012. For trips after January 2012, tour companies can only take 'reservations' for the trail at the moment, not confirmations...as permits are not being given out. ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- For you, availability is the issue. Permits sell out far in advance. Right now the permits are sold out up to September. June, July, August are sold out. ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- I've sold these trips for years and known dozens of people in your situation and none of them have made it on magical 'last-minute list'. ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Additionally, permits must have exact passport name and details matching the traveller that appears at the security check for the trail and if there is a cancellation by a traveller who booked before you, they do NOT re-issue a new permit for last-minute reservations. (Surprisingly...you'd think they'd enjoy receiving multiple payments for the same permit!) ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- SO....two final notes: 1 - Look at the Lares trek...it goes to a higher altitude and is less crowded. Or check out the Salcantay Trek. You'll most likely end up doing the Lares trek...which by no means is second rate to the Classic route (and hey..they're all 'original' Inca Trails...the Incas had more than one little path they walked on.) ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 2 - If, somehow, someone in Cuzco sells you 2 permits for the trail on a date anytime before middle of September...they're fake. ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Need more info on the regulations? The best website, to my knowledge, is at: http://www.incatrailreservations.com/inca_trail/inca_trail_permits_4days.html ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- if the GF is pissed ... then spoil her with a night at one of the luxury hotels like MP Sanctuary or Inkaterra.

Like Douglas said , In Cusco you can book a tour on pretty much every corner of the street... If you have the time just look around for a good deal cause the prices are variable . Dont think it must me a problem to book one a few days in advance . And if you are in Cusco go to Tipon to eat the guinea pig its the best place to try it

Hello Ramon, Prepare for a great adventure! If I were you, would check with local travel agencies upon arriving in Cusco or Aguas Calientes. You may be able to actually score a deal deal on an outgoing group that has a couple of openings. Also, you giht consider checking Intrepid and Gap Adventures now online? Both companies have good reputations and they run these trips frequently. I was in Peru during this time of year and my son and I had a fantastic time. Let me know if you have specific questions that I might can help you with. Good journeys!

write to my friend Noella in Lima: nluna@atlastoursperu.com she works in an travel agency, very professional.

Just book it in Cuzco a few days or a week in advance. The Salkantaytrekking is very beautiful and less populated than the regular inca trail.

Try to contact a travel agency now : incatrail.com it is a good one

hi i´m going there with a friend we booked our walk with peru tourism.com it is not possible to go the inca trail since it was booked till september. but we booked a differnt route 4 days to macchu piccu. i booked it last week and we go on the walk on the 28th. maybe we see you there, if you whant more info you can email me, biggi27@simnet.is

D.G. is spot on if you are dead-set on the "classic" or "original" Inca Trail. There are several alternatives as he points out. These you will likely be able to find a deal on once you arrive in Cusco. I should have read your question a little closer. Good Journeys!