The Best Alternative Treks
Planned your vacation last minute and couldn’t get Inca Trail permits? Don’t worry! Machu Picchu Soul offers the best alternative treks to Machu Picchu. While these routes won’t take you through the Sun Gate, most will still lead you to Machu Picchu. Some treks include a train ride, while others take you on an incredible hike to Aguas Calientes, where you’ll spend the night before visiting this legendary Inca site the next day. Let us help you find the perfect adventure!
FAQs About Alternative Treks to Machu Picchu
What are the best alternative treks to Machu Picchu?
If Inca Trail permits are sold out or you’re looking for a different adventure, top alternative treks include:
- Salkantay Trek (5D/4N or 4D/3N) – A scenic high-altitude trek featuring glaciers, cloud forests, and hot springs.
- Lares Trek (4D/3N) – A cultural trek through remote Andean villages, allowing interactions with Quechua communities.
- Inca Jungle Trek (4D/3N) – A mix of hiking, biking, rafting, and zip-lining for adventure lovers.
- Choquequirao Trek (8D/7N or 5D/4N) – A challenging trek to the ‘sister city’ of Machu Picchu, perfect for experienced hikers.
- Huchuy Qosqo Trek (3D/2N or 2D/1N) – A short, off-the-beaten-path trek combining Inca ruins and stunning landscapes.
Do alternative treks go through the Sun Gate to Machu Picchu?
No, only the Classic Inca Trail enters Machu Picchu through the Sun Gate (Inti Punku). Alternative treks end in Aguas Calientes, the town below Machu Picchu. From there, you take a bus or hike up to the site the following day for your guided tour.
How do alternative treks reach Machu Picchu?
Most alternative treks end in Aguas Calientes, and from there, you either:
- Take a short train ride (if the trek doesn’t go all the way like the Lares trek, the Huchuy qosqo trek).
- Hike directly to Aguas Calientes (as in the Salkantay and Inca Jungle treks) Reach Hidroeléctrica and hike along the train tracks for about 3 hours to the town.
Are alternative treks harder than the Inca Trail?
Difficulty varies:
- Salkantay and Choquequirao Treks are more challenging due to high altitude and long hiking days.
- Lares Trek is moderately difficult, but less crowded and culturally immersive.
- Inca Jungle Trek is a more relaxed adventure, mixing different activities.
- Huchuy Qosqo Trek is the easiest option, great for beginners.
What permits do I need for alternative treks?
Unlike the Inca Trail, alternative treks don’t require special permits. However, Machu Picchu entry tickets must be booked in advance, as they sell out quickly, especially during peak season (May–October).
What is the best time to do an alternative trek to Machu Picchu?
The best time is the dry season (April–October) when trails are clearer, and the weather is more stable. The rainy season (November–March) offers fewer crowds but can make trails slippery and challenging.
Do I need a guide for alternative treks?
Yes, a licensed guide is required for most treks, and joining a guided tour ensures:
- Safety and logistics (transportation, meals, campsites).
- Local cultural insights and a better understanding of the route.
- Entry to Machu Picchu, which requires an official guide.
What should I pack for an alternative trek to Machu Picchu?
Essentials include:
- Hiking boots, warm layers, rain gear, and a hat for changing weather.
- A small backpack with water, snacks, sunscreen, and insect repellent.
- A sleeping bag (for camping treks) and a camera for breathtaking views