GO BEYOND THE INCA TRAIL
Alternative Treks to Machu Picchu
Alternative Treks are amazing hiking tours in the Peruvian Andes that take place on ancient trails that are not the classic "Inca Trail". The Inca Trail itself travels along the mountains to the actual Sun Gate entrance to Machu Picchu. Because Alternative Treks do not go on the classic Inca Trail, they are not regulated by the government and do not require a permit. This means they are easier to book, more readily available, and equally as beautiful and rich in history. They are also less crowded than the classic Inca Trail.
Alternative Treks Usually End with a Bus Trip into Machu Picchu
The one important difference between the Alternative Treks and the Inca Trail Treks is that the hiking portion of your tour will end at or before the town of Aguas Calientes. The last night of the trek is spent in a hotel in the village and on your last day you will bus up to Machu Picchu with your guide for your tour of the ruins.
Option: Add a 2-Day Inca Trail Hike to Your Alternative Trek
You can choose an Alternative Trek and ALSO add on 2 additional days of hiking the classic Inca Trail. This means you will hike scenic and less crowded alternative trek trails and STILL get to walk through the Sun Gate into Machu Picchu in the early morning of your last hiking day! These add-on trek options are indicated by "Trek Name + Inca Trail".
SALKANTAY TREK OPTIONS
Although challenging, the Salkantay trek is a favorite for its stellar views, unique lodging options, and what feels like a truly epic experience from start to finish.
Classic Salkantay Trek 5D/5N
Loadging Type: CampingHighlights: Stellar scenery, coffee farm, glass cabanas
Humantay Lake is The Blue Lagoon on the Salkantay Trail!
Loadging Type: NoneHighlights: Salkantay, Humantay Lagoon
Salkantay Trail & Humantay Lagoon Special 4D / 3N
Loadging Type: CampingHighlights: Salkantay, Humantay Lagoon
Salkantay Tour & Inca Trail 7D/6N
Loadging Type: CampingHighlights: Salkantay + Machu Picchu
LARES TREK OPTIONS
A cultural flare: experience the thrill of hiking the Andes, and spend time in local villages learning more about this incredible culture.
Lares Trek to Machu Picchu 4D/3N
Loadging Type:Highlights:
Lares & 2 Day Inca Trail with Camping- 5D/4N
Loadging Type: CampingHighlights: Lares, short Inca Trail, and Machu Picchu
AUSANGATE TREK OPTIONS
To watch the sun rise over Machu Picchu is a must-do for most, as is the mind-boggling Rainbow Mountain. These trek options bring both this favorites together for you.
7 Lakes trek Ausangate – Full day
Loadging Type: NoneHighlights: Ausangate
Rainbow Mountain Hike & Red Valley Tour – in 1 Day!
Loadging Type: NoneHighlights: Rainbow Mountain & the Red Valley
Ausangate Trek, Rainbow Mountain 3D/2N
Loadging Type: CampingHighlights: Cusco, Peru to Rainbow Mountain
Ausangate Trek, Rainbow Mountain & Machu Picchu – 4D/3N
Loadging Type: CampingHighlights: Rainbow Mountain, Ausangate and Machu Picchu
CHOQUEQUIRAO TREK OPTIONS
Choquekiraw ruins are larger than Machu Picchu, but are currently a hidden gem, and not easily accessible to visitors. Soon, a tram will be built and this will become as popular as Machu Picchu.
Choquequirao Trek + Machu Picchu 6 Days/5 Nights
Loadging Type: CampingHighlights: Choquequirao Ruins & Machu Picchu
Choquequirao Trek 5D/4N
Loadging Type: CampingHighlights: Choquequirao archaeological site
HUCHUY QOSQO TREK OPTIONS
Known as the "Little Cusco" perched above the Sacred Valley, Huchuy Quosqo is one of our prettiest treks and is both shorter and easier for those with limited time. Great for families and those who want a taste of hiking.
HOW TO CHOOSE A TREK
Trekker Planning Resources
Are you ready to plan your Inca Trail journey to some of the most awe-inspiring sights of Peru?
We're taking the guesswork out of the process for you; start here to plan the best Inca Trail or Alternative trek for you—including choosing your hike, information on permits & tickets, fitness & altitude sickness, and FAQs.
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