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Welcome, passionate traveler! If you’re here, it’s because the call of adventure and exploration has led you to seek new alternative treks to Inca Trail. We know that the legendary Inca Trail is a dream for many, but we also understand that sometimes the classic routes need an unexpected twist, a new challenge, a unique experience that will be etched in your memory forever.
In this blog, we invite you to explore Inca Trail alternatives. From hidden trails in the Amazon rainforest to routes that traverse snowy peaks and ancient villages, each journey offers a different perspective of the majestic beauty of the Peruvian Andes. Here you’ll find detailed information, practical advice, and inspiring stories to help you plan your next great adventure.
Are there alternative treks to Inca Trail?
As we all know, the Inca Trail is the most famous route in Cusco to reach Machu Picchu, which is why many travelers and travel agencies compete to secure a spot. However, due to this high demand, new routes have emerged as Inca Trail alternatives, offering an equally incredible yet distinct experience.
These alternative treks to inca trail stand out for their easier reservation process, additional activities, new destinations, lower difficulty, and the opportunity to learn more about Inca culture from a new Andean perspective.
Adventure options to reach Machu Picchu are waiting for you!
Salkantay Trek
What is the Salkantay Trek?
It is the second most famous trekking route in Cusco, only surpassed by the incredible Inca Trail. This route is a great alternative for those travelers seeking an experience focused on landscapes and nature, as you will traverse various environments, from the famous Salkantay Mountain to the warm jungle area of Cusco.
The sacred Salkantay mountain will greet you during your journey.
Difficulty of the Salkantay Trek
Although this route takes you to altitudes above 4,000 meters (13,123 feet), like when passing by Salkantay Mountain, you don’t need to worry because this trail is designed for tourism. It has a moderate to challenging difficulty, meaning that anyone with a moderate level of fitness can complete it without any problems.
Technical Details of the Salkantay Trek
- Length: Approximately 74 km/124 miles.
- Maximum Altitude: 4,630 meters/15,190 feet.
- Minimum Altitude: 1,800 meters/5,906 feet.
- Duration: 5 days/4 nights (Classic Version).
Highlights of the Salkantay Trek
To understand why the The Salkantay Trek is one of the best alternative treks to Inca Trail, here are some highlights of this trekking route and why you should consider it:
- The Salkantay route is considered one of the top 25 hikes in the world by National Geographic Adventure Travel.
- It offers impressive places and landscapes such as: Humantay Lake, Salkantay Mountain, and Llactapata.
- You’ll encounter waterfalls, glaciers, snow-capped mountains, cloud forests, and unique flora and fauna.
The scenic beauty and diversity of the Salkantay Trek is truly unique.
Summary of the Salkantay Trek Classic Version Itinerary
- Day 01: Cusco – Mollepata – Challacancha – Soraypampa – Humantay Lake.
- Day 02: Soraypampa – Salkantay Pass – Huayracmachay – Collpampa.
- Day 03: Collpampa – La Playa – Lucmabamba.
- Day 04: Lucmabamba – Llactapaca – Aobamba – Hidroeléctrica – Aguas Calientes.
- Day 05: Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu – Ollantaytambo – Cusco.
Inca Jungle Trek
What is the Inca Jungle Trek?
Known as “The Adventure Route to Machu Picchu,” the Inca Jungle Trek quickly became one of the best Inca Trail alternatives. It’s a trail full of sporting activities that will fill you with adrenaline as you venture into the Cusco jungle, finally reaching Machu Picchu.
An adventure in the middle of the jungle and beautiful landscapes awaits you!
Difficulty of the Inca Jungle Trek
Compared to other Inca Trail alternatives, such as the Lares Trek or Salkantay Trek, the Inca Jungle Trek was created as a trekking route that offers the opportunity to enjoy outdoor sports like cycling, rafting, and ziplining. You don’t need to be an expert since you’ll have highly qualified professionals available to ensure your enjoyment and safety in all activities.
Regarding the trekking portion, you will traverse short trails with gentle slopes, and at the same time, the route is at lower altitudes, below 3,000 meters (9,843 feet), making it a moderately difficult experience.
Technical Details of the Inca Jungle Trek
- Length: Approximately 50 kilometers/31 miles.
- Maximum Altitude: 4,350 meters/14,271 feet.
- Minimum Altitude: 1,400 meters/4,593 feet.
- Duration: 4 days/3 nights.
Highlights of the Inca Jungle Trek
- The Inca Jungle Trek is the only route that combines hiking with exciting sports activities that will push your adrenaline to the limit.
- You will walk along ancient Inca paths while the jungle surrounds you with its flora and fauna.
- Enjoy fresh local fruits and products as you pass through various agricultural centers.
- Relax in the crystal-clear thermal waters of Cocalmayo.
The Inca Jungle is the perfect opportunity to unleash your sporty and adventurous side with unique activities along the trail.
Summary of the Inca Jungle Trek Classic Version Itinerary
- Day 01: Cusco – Abra Málaga (Cycling) – Santa María (Rafting).
- Day 02: Santa María – Santa Teresa (Cocalmayo Hot Springs).
- Day 03: Santa Teresa (Zip Line) – Hidroeléctrica – Aguas Calientes.
- Day 04: Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu – Ollantaytambo – Cusco.
Lares Trek
What is the Lares Trek?
This trekking route is a favorite among travelers looking for an adventure in the Andean mountains, with crystal-clear lagoons and the opportunity to immerse themselves in living cultures and customs in the different villages along the way. It is one of the best alternative treks to Inca Trail, and it also allows you to visit Machu Picchu.
The opportunity to interact with local communities on the Lares Trek makes it an enriching experience like no other.
Difficulty of the Lares Trek
Given that this trekking trail takes place at an average altitude of 2,800 meters (9,186 feet) and on the second day, you will reach above 4,800 meters (15,748 feet), you might think it’s one of the most challenging routes. The trek is considered moderate to challenging as it usually doesn’t have steep ascents, and with fewer travelers, you can hike at your own pace.
Technical Details of the Lares Trek
- Length: Approximately 37 kilometers/23 miles.
- Maximum Altitude: 4,700 meters/15,420 feet.
- Minimum Altitude: 2,500 meters/8,202 feet.
- Duration: 4 days/3 nights.
Highlights of the Lares Trek
- One of the best alternatives to the Inca Trail, ranking third among the most traveled routes.
- A peaceful journey accompanied by the sounds of waterfalls and Andean winds.
- A great opportunity to immerse yourself in Andean culture and its living traditions.
- Relax in the medicinal Hot Springs of Lares and soothe your muscles.
Photographic opportunities will be present at every step you take.
Summary of the Lares Trek Classic Version Itinerary
- Day 1: Cusco – Lares Hot Springs – Kiswarani Village
- Day 2: Kiswarani – Condor Pass – Cancha Cancha Community
- Day 3: CanchaCancha – Huaran – Ollantaytambo – Aguas Calientes
- Day 4: Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu – Ollantaytambo – Cusco
Choquequirao Trek
What is the Choquequirao Trek?
The Choquequirao Trek route is a grand adventure leading to a destination as incredible as Machu Picchu: the impressive Choquequirao Archaeological Complex, which means “Cradle of Gold.” This Inca citadel is as imposing as its bigger sister, Machu Picchu. That’s why it has become one of the most important alternative treks to Inca Trail, standing out for its dense vegetation in the middle of the cloud forest, which ultimately covered and hid it from civilization.
Capture and discover the most hidden archaeological complex in all of Peru.
Difficulty of the Choquequirao Trek
Unlike other Inca Trail alternatives, the Choquequirao Trek is considered moderately challenging because it is shorter and takes place at lower altitudes, below 3,000 meters (9,843 feet). This means that the lack of oxygen or possible altitude sickness won’t be an issue, but the steep sections will test your physical endurance.
Technical Details of the Choquequirao Trek
- Length: Approximately 32 kilometers/20 miles.
- Maximum Altitude: 3,350 meters/10,990 feet.
- Minimum Altitude: 1,500 meters/4,921 feet.
- Duration: 4 days/3 nights.
Highlights of the Choquequirao Trek
- Escape the large crowds of travelers and explore an incredible trail to Choquequirao.
- Discover and explore one of the most important Inca sites in Cusco, whose mystery remains part of its charm.
- Become one of the few adventurers who have hiked this trail and visited Machu Picchu’s little sister.
- The flora and fauna will accompany you every step of the way, so take advantage and snap the best photos.
- Descend into one of the deepest canyons in Peru, the famous Apurímac Canyon.
Your journey through the Choquequirao archaeological complex is a unique and impressive experience.
Summary of the Choquequirao Trek Classic Version Itinerary
- Day 01: Cusco – Cachora – Capuliyoc – Chiquisca.
- Day 02: Chiquisca – Playa Rosalinas – Santa Rosa – Marampata.
- Day 03: Marampata – Choquequirao Archaeological Complex.
- Day 04: Marampata – Santa Rosa – Playa Rosalinas – Chiquisca.
- Day 05: Chiquisca – Capuliyoc – Conoc Hot Springs – Cusco.
Conclusion
After considering the various alternative treks to Inca Trail, it is clear that each one offers its own charm and unique challenges. Whether you choose the classic route from kilometer 82, the Salkantay route with its stunning landscapes, or the Lares route with its cultural interaction, all will take you through spectacular landscapes and provide an unforgettable experience in the Peruvian Andes.
So, go ahead! Whichever route you choose, we invite you to immerse yourself in this unique adventure, connect with nature and the rich history of the Incas, and marvel at the beauty of the surrounding landscapes. Don’t wait any longer to embark on this exciting journey!
