When we think of Machu Picchu, the first image that often comes to mind is the Inca citadel wrapped in magical mist, with Huayna Picchu rising in the background. However, what we often overlook is that the journey there is also a crucial part of the experience. While the classic Inca Trail is an unforgettable adventure, many travelers today seek less crowded routes with equally breathtaking landscapes and a closer connection to nature and Andean communities.
Do you dream of reaching Machu Picchu without the crowds too? Keep reading, because here you’ll find everything about the best alternative routes.
1. Salkantay Trek: Between Glaciers and Jungle
The Salkantay route is considered by many as the best alternative to the Inca Trail. It’s a challenging trek, yes, but also one of the most visually stunning.
What makes it special?
- You’ll cross the mighty Salkantay snow-capped peak (6,271 m), one of Cusco’s sacred Apus.
- The landscape changes constantly: from high mountain terrain and glaciers to cloud forest.
- Fewer tourists, more tranquility.
- Duration: 4 to 5 days
- Difficulty level: High
- Approximate distance: 70 km
- Highest point: Salkantay Pass (4,650 m a.s.l.)
- Requirements: Good physical condition, prior acclimatization in Cusco; not suitable for people with heart or respiratory conditions.
- Restrictions: Not recommended for small children or older adults without trekking experience.
- Final destination: You’ll arrive at Aguas Calientes (base town for Machu Picchu).
2. Lares Trek: Living Culture at Every Step
If your thing is connecting with people, the Lares Valley route will steal your heart. This trek passes through Quechua Andean communities that still preserve their language, clothing, and traditions.
Why is it different?
- You’ll visit villages like Huacahuasi or Patacancha, where tourism is still sustainable and respectful.
- You’ll learn firsthand about textiles, traditional farming, and life at high altitude.
- Spectacular views of turquoise lagoons and snow-covered peaks.
- Duration: 3 to 5 days
- Difficulty level: Medium to high
- Distance: 33 to 40 km (depending on the itinerary)
- Highest point: Ipsaycocha Pass (4,450 m a.s.l.)
- Requirements: At least two days of acclimatization, tolerance to cold, ability to walk long distances.
- Restrictions: May not be ideal for people with vertigo or altitude sensitivity.
- End of the trek: You’ll reach Ollantaytambo by bus or train, and from there, continue to Aguas Calientes.
3. Inca Jungle Trek: Extreme Adventure to the Citadel
If you can’t sit still and love adrenaline, the Inca Jungle Trek is for you. This route combines trekking with activities like mountain biking, rafting, and ziplining.
What makes it unique?
- You start by biking down from the Andes into the jungle.
- You can go rafting in the rivers near Santa MarĂa.
- You’ll hike through coffee, banana, and cacao plantations.
- Duration: 3 to 4 days
- Difficulty level: Medium (but physically demanding due to activity mix)
- Total distance: 50 km (including biking and hiking)
- Highest point: Abra Málaga (4,316 m a.s.l., by bike)
- Requirements: Ability to ride a bike, love for adventure, minimum physical condition.
- Restrictions: Not suitable for people with fear of heights or heart problems. Some activities have age restrictions.
- Final leg: You’ll arrive at Aguas Calientes via Santa Teresa.
4. Short Inca Trail: History Without the Exhaustion
Not everyone has the time or fitness level for the full Inca Trail. That’s why there’s an express version that still lets you enter through the iconic Sun Gate (Inti Punku).
Highlights of the route:
- Walk along original Qhapaq Ă‘an (Inca trail network) paths.
- Visit Wiñay Wayna, a beautiful lesser-known archaeological site.
- Arrive at Machu Picchu on foot, without the full 4-day trek.
- Duration: 2 days
- Difficulty level: Medium
- Distance: About 10 km
- Highest point: 2,700 m a.s.l.
- Requirements: Advance permit required, good physical condition for a long day of hiking.
- Restrictions: Limited spots; often sold out months in advance.
- Ending: Direct arrival at Machu Picchu via the traditional pedestrian entrance.
5. Huchuy Qosqo Trek: The Hidden Gem
Few routes are as unknown-and magical-as the Huchuy Qosqo trek. This ancient Inca administrative center hangs above the Sacred Valley with stunning panoramic views.
What’s special about it?
- Hike along original Inca trails.
- Camp under the stars in the middle of nowhere.
- Walk through areas where you’ll likely not see another tourist.
- Duration: 2 to 3 days
- Difficulty level: Medium
- Distance: 17 to 20 km
- Highest point: 4,200 m a.s.l.
- Requirements: Warm clothing, basic acclimatization, readiness to camp.
- Restrictions: Unpredictable weather, limited tourist services.
- Final route: From Lamay, continue to Ollantaytambo and then to Machu Picchu.
Tips for Choosing Your Route
- Assess your fitness level. Routes like Salkantay or Lares require prior acclimatization in Cusco.
- Plan ahead. Some routes, though less traveled, still require permits.
- Support sustainable tourism. Choose local agencies and operators that work with communities.
- Check the weather. The best trekking season is from April to October (dry season).
- Bring the right gear. From sturdy boots to a good backpack, every detail counts.
What About the Classic Train?
If none of the trekking options suit you, you can always take the train from Cusco or the Sacred Valley to Aguas Calientes. From there, you can reach Machu Picchu by bus or on foot. Though it's the most common option, you can combine it with short hikes and still enjoy the Andean magic.
In Summary: A Thousand Paths, One Destination
Like every great journey, what truly matters isn’t just the destination—it’s how you choose to live the journey. Whether you go through glaciers, remote villages, extreme adventures, or misty hidden trails, all these alternative routes offer a unique experience, rich in culture, nature, and discovery.
Choose the one that resonates most with you, put on a good pair of trekking shoes, take a deep breath… and let the Andes guide you.
