Havasupai Permits 2026: What’s New This Year

If you’re planning a Havasupai trip in 2026, there are some big changes you need to know about. The Tribe has updated the process for selling permits, introduced early access purchasing, added a partial refund option, and officially retired a few older systems that had been confusing in the past. Here’s a simple breakdown of what’s new for Havasupai reservations in 2026 and what it means for you.

Planning tip: Once you’ve secured your permit, don’t miss my complete Havasupai packing list and what to buy guide. It covers everything from hiking gear to camp essentials, so you’re not scrambling before your trip.

Havasupai Lottery 2026: No More Lottery or Transfer Board

The Havasupai permit lottery has officially ended, and the transfer board is no longer in use.

Starting in 2026:

• Havasupai permits are now sold on a first-come, first-served basis.
• Permits cannot be transferred or resold under any circumstances.
• If you’re unable to attend your trip, you must cancel your permit (see the refund rules below).

How to Book in the New 2026 System

⚠️ Important: The Havasupai 2026 booking system is new. Follow these steps carefully when adding permits and Potential Alternative Trip Leaders (PATLs).

1. Visit havasupaireservations.com
   No login or account is required.
2. Click “Book Now.”
3. Select your arrival date, departure date, and number of guests.
   By default, the system only allows 3-night stays. Once selected, the page will refresh to show campground and lodge availability.
4. Click “Book Now” next to your chosen campground or lodge option to add your first permit.
5. Add permits one at a time.
   To book multiple permits under the same name, click “Add Booking” after each reservation. The system will return you to the calendar, where you must reselect your dates for every additional permit.
6. Double-check your dates for each permit before proceeding. The system resets after every booking.
7. Add any Potential Alternative Trip Leaders (PATLs) during checkout.
   PATLs cannot be added or edited later, so make sure this step is completed before payment.
8. Complete checkout.
   Once your booking is finalized, you’ll receive an email confirmation with your permit details.

Havasupai Permits Early Access 2026: January 21-31, 2026

For the first time, the Havasupai Tribe is offering early access to 2026 permits before the traditional February 1 on-sale date. Early access gives hikers a chance to secure Havasupai permits before they sell out.

Havasupai Early Access Dates

• January 21, 2026, at 8:00 a.m. (AZ time)
• Ends January 31, 2026, at 5:00 p.m. (AZ time)

Havasupai Early Access Permit Fees

• Campground: $455 permit + $40 early access fee (per person, 3 nights)
• Lodge: $2,277 permit + $160 early access fee (covers up to 4 people, 3 nights)

Note: Early access fees are non-refundable, and all Havasupai permits must be purchased through the official reservation site.

Havasupai Permits 2026: February 1 Traditional On-Sale

The traditional Havasupai permit sale for 2026 is still happening on February 1, 2026, with the same prices as last year. This is the main on-sale date for hikers who didn’t participate in early access.

February 1, 2026 Sale Details

• Sales open February 1, 2026, at 8:00 a.m. (AZ time)
• No early access fee
• Same permit prices as 2025

Havasupai Standard Permit Prices (2026)

• Campground: $455 per person (3 nights)
• Lodge: $2,277 per reservation (up to 4 people, 3 nights)

Note: Permits tend to sell out quickly, so be ready at the official reservation site when sales open. All Havasupai permits must be purchased through the official reservation site.

New Havasupai Cancellation & Refund Policy (Major Update)

One of the biggest changes for 2026 is the new Havasupai refund policy. For the first time, the Tribe is allowing partial refunds if you cancel early enough.

Havasupai Permit Refund Rules 2026

• Cancel at least 90 days before your trip start date to receive 50% of the permit fee back.
• Early access fees are non-refundable.
• Refunds go back to the original credit card used for purchase.
• No refunds are issued if you cancel within 90 days of your trip. Even if you’re not eligible for a refund, the Tribe asks that you cancel online to indicate you won’t be arriving.
• If you have multiple permits, each permit must be canceled individually to receive the partial refund.

Note: These rules apply to all 2026 Havasupai permits, campground and lodge, purchased through the official reservation site.

Alternative Trip Leader (PATL) Strongly Recommended

When booking your Havasupai permits 2026, you now have the option to add a Potential Alternative Trip Leader (PATL).

Why this matters:

• The original reservation holder does not need to be present at check-in
• As long as a listed PATL checks in with a valid ID, the trip can proceed

Important rules for PATLs:

• PATLs must be added during the reservation process; they cannot be added later.
• This feature acts as a safeguard in case travel plans change, ensuring your hike can go ahead smoothly.

Permit Transfers & Resales Are Strictly Prohibited

To be crystal clear, under the Havasupai permit rules 2026:

• Permits cannot be sold
• Permits cannot be transferred
• No exceptions

Any attempt to resell or transfer Havasupai permits violates Tribal policy and may result in cancellation of your reservation.

Important: Logistics & Protecting Your 2026 Trip to Havasupai

Getting the permit is just step one. Because the Tribe’s new 2026 policy only allows for partial refunds (50% back if you cancel 90+ days out, and 0% if you’re closer to your date), you need to handle your logistics immediately.

1. Get Travel Insurance for Havasupai

Havasupai permits for 2026 are expensive and come with strict cancellation rules. While permits are 50% refundable if you cancel more than 90 days before your start date, anything closer than that is non-refundable, and you still need to formally cancel to avoid issues. Travel insurance helps protect the portion of your Havasupai permit, campground fees, and gear costs that you could otherwise lose if plans change unexpectedly.

Here are the best vetted travel insurance options based on where you live:

For US-Based Travelers

• InsureMyTrip (Compare 20+ Quotes): If you want to shop around for the best price, start with InsureMyTrip. It’s a comparison engine that pulls live quotes from dozens of providers at once so you can find a plan that fits your specific budget. Best part: You can get actual prices instantly without giving them your email address or phone number.

• World Nomads: I recommend World Nomads, a long-time favorite among backpackers. They offer flexible single-trip policies or Annual Travel Insurance plans that cover unlimited trips for a full year, great if Havasupai isn’t your only adventure in 2026.

• Faye Travel Insurance: I also recommend Faye for comprehensive single-trip protection. They’re a US-based company that can help cover the cost of your Havasupai permit, backpacking gear, and medical emergencies. Their 24/7 human support through the app is especially helpful if something goes wrong before or during your Havasu Falls hike.

For International Travelers

• AURAS Travel Insurance: If you’re traveling internationally to hike Havasu Falls, AURAS Travel Insurance is a solid option. They specialize in adventure trekking and offer a 10% discount with code ADM10. If you’re already in the US and forgot to buy insurance, you can still purchase AURAS by checking the “Already Traveling” box, though coverage won’t start for 48 hours.

2. Book Your Stay in Peach Springs

Important: All hikers must check in at the Grand Canyon Caverns Inn to receive their permits and wristbands before heading to the trailhead. The office is open daily from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM (AZ Time!), and you can check in as early as the day before your hike starts.

Note: Arizona does not observe Daylight Saving Time. Make sure to double-check your clock if you are driving in from out of state so you don’t miss the 5:00 PM cutoff!

While you pick up your permits at the Caverns Inn, I personally recommend the Hualapai Lodge (Hotels.com/Expedia) for your stay. It’s only about 15 minutes down the road and, in my opinion, offers a much more comfortable experience with a great final hot shower before you hit the trail!

3. Critter-Proof Your Food

You’ve probably seen me mention this on Instagram or elsewhere on my blog, but this Rat Sack is non-negotiable. The squirrels in the campground are pros at stealing food from hikers.

4. Stay Connected

There is zero cell service from the moment you leave Peach Springs until you hike back out. For safety, I carry a satellite communicator. You can see my Garmin inReach Review for exactly why it’s worth the peace of mind.

Havasupai Permits 2026 FAQs

Is there a permit lottery for Havasupai in 2026?
No. The lottery system has been discontinued. All permits are sold on a first-come, first-served basis.

When do Havasupai reservations open for 2026?
Early access to Havasupai reservations opens on January 21, allowing you to book your adventure for an additional early-access fee. The standard reservation sale begins on February 1.

Can I transfer or resell my Havasupai permit?
No. Permit transfers and resales are strictly prohibited with no exceptions.

Is early access worth it?
Early access gives you a chance to secure permits before the February 1 rush, but it comes with an extra fee. If you have fixed travel dates or limited flexibility, it may be worth it.

Can I get a refund if I cancel my trip?
Yes, but only if you cancel at least 90 days before your permit start date. You’ll receive 50% of the permit fee back. Early access fees are non-refundable.

What happens if I cancel within 90 days?
No refund is issued. However, you should still cancel your reservation online to notify the Tribe.

Do I have to be present to check in?
No. As long as you’ve added a Potential Alternative Trip Leader (PATL) during booking, they can check in with a valid ID.

Where can I find a packing list for Havasupai?
I’ve put together a detailed Havasupai packing list and what to buy guide covering hiking gear, camping essentials, and what’s actually worth bringing.

Final Thoughts on Havasupai Permits 2026

The Havasupai permit system 2026 is more straightforward than ever:

• No lottery
• Optional early access
• Partial refunds if you cancel early
• No transfers or resales

Beyond the rules, visiting Havasupai is an unforgettable experience. The canyon is a deeply spiritual place, with turquoise waterfalls, scenic trails, and natural pools that stay with you long after you leave.

If you’re planning a trip, give yourself plenty of time to prepare, know your dates, and decide whether early access is right for your schedule.

I’ve documented my own Havasupai adventure in this blog post, including a complete packing list and a day-by-day hiking diary, so you’ll know exactly what to expect and how to make the most of your 2026 trip.

Post originally published on January 15, 2026, and last updated on January 28, 2026.