If you’re planning your dream trip to Machu Picchu but discovered that the classic Inca Trail permits are already sold out — don’t worry! Each day, only 500 people (including guides, porters, and cooks) are allowed to enter the 4-day Classic Inca Trail. Even the Short Inca Trail—with just 250 spaces per day—often sells out months in advance.
But that doesn’t mean your adventure ends there. Peru offers several incredible Alternative to Inca Trail Machu Picchu that are just as breathtaking — and in some cases, even more authentic and less crowded. These routes take you through remote Andean villages, glacier-covered peaks, and lush cloud forests before reaching the legendary citadel of Machu Picchu.
In this guide, we’ll explore the best alternative hikes to the Inca Trail, including the Lares Trek, Salkantay Trek, Inca Jungle Trail, Choquequirao Trek, Ausangate Trek, Poques Trek and more. Each offers its own unique mix of adventure, culture, and natural beauty — giving you a once-in-a-lifetime experience off the beaten path.
Whether you’re a passionate hiker, a cultural explorer, or a traveler seeking new perspectives, these Machu Picchu alternative treks provide unforgettable journeys through the heart of the Andes.
Keep reading to discover which trek suits your travel style, physical level, and adventure goals best.
Alternative to Inca Trail Machu Picchu — All Tours
Poques Trek 3 Days – The Hidden Andean Route to Machu Picchu
For travelers seeking a truly authentic and exclusive alternative trek to Machu Picchu, the Poques Trek 3 Day / 2 Nights offers a one-of-a-kind experience that few have ever heard of. This hidden route was created by local guide Silvio Tunqui, a native of the Poques community near Pisac. Through Tunqui Expeditions, Silvio proudly shares his ancestral lands and traditions with travelers looking for something beyond the typical trekking routes and the best Alternative to Inca Trail Machu Picchu.
The Poques Trek 3 Days combines breathtaking natural beauty with genuine cultural connection. You’ll hike alongside llamas through the Andes, explore unexplored lagoons near Pisac, pass the famous Salineras de Maras (Salt Mines), and finally make your way toward Machu Picchu.
Unlike other routes, the Poques Trek allows you to walk through untouched landscapes known only to local communities, with the guidance of people who have lived here for generations. It’s a sustainable, community-based trekking experience that supports local families while preserving Andean traditions.
Poques Trek 3 Days – Itinerary Highlights
- Day 1: Begin your adventure from the Poques community near Pisac. Hike with llamas through scenic highland valleys, visit hidden lagoons, and learn about the Andean way of life from your local guide.
- Day 2: Continue through ancient trails used by the Incas, discovering unexplored mountain lakes and panoramic views of the Sacred Valley. Visit the famous Maras Salt Mines (Salineras) and descend toward the Urubamba River.
- Day 3: Travel by train or trek to Machu Picchu, where you’ll enjoy a guided tour of the legendary Inca citadel before returning to Cusco.
Why Choose the Poques Trek?
- Exclusive route created by Silvio Tunqui, local guide and founder of Tunqui Expeditions.
- Community-based trek supporting local families in Poques.
- Walk with llamas through pristine Andean landscapes and hidden lagoons.
- Visit Pisac, Salineras de Maras, and Machu Picchu in one unforgettable journey.
- Ideal for travelers seeking authentic, off-the-beaten-path adventures.
Lares Trek – A Cultural Journey Through Andean Villages
If you dream of hiking through remote Andean landscapes while connecting with local Quechua communities, the Lares Trek to Machu Picchu is your perfect adventure. Unlike the crowded Inca Trail, this route takes you deep into the Sacred Valley of the Incas, where you’ll pass by traditional stone villages, meet local weavers, and witness centuries-old traditions that remain untouched by modern life.
The Lares Trek is more than just a hike — it’s a cultural exchange. As you walk alongside herds of alpacas and llamas, cross high mountain passes, and soak in natural hot springs, you’ll experience the soul of the Andes. Every step reveals stunning mountain scenery, turquoise lagoons, and a lifestyle preserved since Inca times.
Whether you want to combine it with Machu Picchu or explore only the Lares Valley, there’s a perfect option for every traveler.
Lares Trek Packages You Can Choose From
Lares Trek to Machu Picchu 4 Days (With Llamas and Machu Picchu Visit)
Experience a unique 4-day Lares Trek journey through authentic Andean villages where llamas accompany you along the trail. This version ends with a guided tour of Machu Picchu, combining cultural immersion with one of the world’s most iconic wonders.
- Highlights: Llamas as pack animals, local family visits, hot springs, Machu Picchu tour.
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Duration: 4 Days / 3 Nights
Classic Lares Trek 4 Days (Traditional Route to Machu Picchu)
This Classic Lares Trek 4 Days follows the traditional path through the Lares Valley and the Sacred Valley before taking the train to Machu Picchu. It’s the ideal choice for those seeking both authentic culture and breathtaking landscapes.
- Highlights: Traditional villages, Andean weavers, mountain passes, Machu Picchu entrance.
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Duration: 4 Days / 3 Nights
Lares Trek with Inca Trail 5 Days (Best of Both Worlds)
Can’t decide between the Inca Trail and the Lares Trek? This 5-day itinerary combines both! You’ll hike through the Lares Valley’s scenic routes and join the Short Inca Trail on the way to Machu Picchu. Perfect for those who want a bit of everything — nature, culture, and Inca history.
- Highlights: Lares villages, Inca Trail ruins, Wiñay Wayna, Sun Gate (Inti Punku), Machu Picchu.
- Difficulty: Moderate to Challenging
- Duration: 5 Days / 4 Nights
Lares Valley Hike 3D/2N (Lares Valley Only)
For travelers short on time, this 3-day trek offers a deep dive into the Lares Valley’s cultural and natural beauty without continuing to Machu Picchu. Ideal for those who wish to explore rural Peru and visit hot springs and weaving communities.
- Highlights: Hot springs of Lares, local markets, Andean landscapes, traditional villages.
- Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
- Duration: 3 Days / 2 Nights
Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu – The Best Inca Trail Alternative
The Salkantay Trek is widely recognized as the best alternative to the classic Inca Trail, offering stunning mountain scenery, diverse ecosystems, and a thrilling sense of adventure. Named after Mount Salkantay or Salcantay (6,271m / 20,574 ft) — one of the most sacred peaks in Inca mythology — this trail takes you from snow-capped summits to lush tropical rainforests, ending at the awe-inspiring Machu Picchu.
Unlike the Inca Trail, no special permit is required for Salkantay, which means you can embark on this adventure at almost any time of the year. It’s perfect for travelers who love nature, enjoy a physical challenge, and prefer a route that’s less crowded but equally rewarding.
Along the way, you’ll hike past glacial lakes, cross high mountain passes, soak in hot springs, and visit remote Andean villages before reaching the legendary Inca citadel. The Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu is an unforgettable blend of adventure, culture, and breathtaking landscapes.
Salkantay Trek Packages You Can Choose From
Ultimate Classic Salkantay Trek 5 Days
The Classic 5-Day Salkantay Trek is the most popular version of this route — and for good reason. It combines every highlight of the Andes, from the turquoise waters of Humantay Lake to the jungle trails leading to Aguas Calientes, the town below Machu Picchu.
- Highlights: Humantay Lake, Salkantay Pass (4,650m), tropical valleys, coffee plantations, and Machu Picchu guided tour.
- Difficulty: Moderate to Challenging
- Duration: 5 Days / 4 Nights
- Perfect for: Adventurous travelers who want the full Salkantay experience with comfort and scenic diversity.
Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu – Women Only 5 Days
Designed exclusively for women, this empowering Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu – Women Only 5D/4N creates a supportive and inspiring environment to explore the Andes. Hike alongside other female travelers while sharing unforgettable moments — from the glacial peaks of Salkantay to the magical sunrise over Machu Picchu.
- Highlights: Women-led group, cultural exchange with local Andean women, Humantay Lake, Salkantay Pass, and Machu Picchu.
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Duration: 5 Days / 4 Nights
- Perfect for: Solo travelers and women seeking connection, adventure, and self-discovery in Peru.
Short Salkantay Trek 4 Days
Short on time? The Short 4-Day Salkantay Trek offers a condensed version of the classic route — without sacrificing its most iconic highlights. You’ll still hike over the impressive Salkantay Pass, visit Humantay Lake, and finish with a guided exploration of Machu Picchu.
- Highlights: Salkantay Pass, Humantay Lake, lush valleys, and Machu Picchu.
- Difficulty: Challenging
- Duration: 4 Days / 3 Nights
- Perfect for: Travelers on a tighter schedule who want an epic adventure from mountains to jungle in fewer days.
Ausangate Trek – Discover the Sacred Mountain of the Andes
If you’re seeking an adventure that goes beyond the classic Machu Picchu routes, the Ausangate Trek is a truly authentic Andean experience. Located in the heart of the Vilcanota mountain range, Mount Ausangate (6,384 m / 20,945 ft) is one of the most sacred peaks in Inca mythology and remains a place of pilgrimage for local Quechua communities.
This trek offers some of the most spectacular high-altitude scenery in all of Peru — turquoise lakes, herds of alpacas, glaciers, and vibrant rainbow-colored hills. Far from the crowds, you’ll walk through remote Andean landscapes where ancient traditions are still alive.
The Ausangate region is also home to the world-famous Rainbow Mountain (Vinicunca), and many treks combine both for an unforgettable multi-day journey through Peru’s most colorful terrain.
Whether you have two days or a full week to explore, there’s an Ausangate Trek package to match your travel style and adventure level.
Ausangate Trek Packages You Can Choose From
Classic Ausangate Trek 5 Days
The Classic 5-Day Ausangate Trek is the ultimate high-Andes adventure. This challenging route takes you around the entire Ausangate massif, passing glacial lakes, mountain passes over 5,000 meters, and small herding communities that keep traditional Andean life alive.
- Highlights: Ausangate mountain circuit, turquoise lakes (Puca Cocha, Jatun Pucacocha), hot springs, glaciers, and local culture.
- Difficulty: Challenging (high-altitude trek)
- Duration: 5 Days / 4 Nights
- Perfect for: Experienced hikers looking for solitude, stunning mountain views, and authentic Andean experiences.
Ausangate Trek to Rainbow Mountain 4 Days
This 4-day adventure combines the dramatic beauty of Mount Ausangate with a hike to the spectacular Rainbow Mountain (Vinicunca). It’s a perfect blend of culture, color, and challenge — finishing with one of the most photogenic views in Peru.
- Highlights: Rainbow Mountain viewpoint, Ausangate lakes, high passes, local alpaca herders, and Andean wildlife.
- Difficulty: Moderate to Challenging
- Duration: 4 Days / 3 Nights
- Perfect for: Hikers who want a shorter trek with iconic views and natural color landscapes.
Ausangate Trek 6 Days
For those who want to explore deeper into the Vilcanota range, this Ausangate Trek 6-days version offers a slower pace and additional scenic detours. You’ll have more time to acclimatize and enjoy the spiritual serenity of the Ausangate region.
- Highlights: Extended mountain circuit, remote valleys, local Andean rituals, and stunning panoramic viewpoints.
- Difficulty: Challenging
- Duration: 6 Days / 5 Nights
- Perfect for: Serious trekkers and photographers who love immersive wilderness experiences.
Ausangate Trek 2 Days
Short on time? The 2-Day Ausangate Trek is ideal for travelers who still want a taste of this high-Andes wonder without committing to a long expedition. Enjoy crystal-clear lakes, alpaca pastures, and the peace of the mountains in just two days.
- Highlights: Ausangate base hike, local Andean villages, and thermal baths.
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Duration: 2 Days / 1 Night
- Perfect for: Travelers on tight schedules or those acclimating before longer treks.
Ausangate Trek and Rainbow Mountain 3 Days
The 3-Day Ausangate and Rainbow Mountain Trek is one of the most popular short versions — combining the area’s best highlights into an unforgettable journey. You’ll trek through glacial valleys, spot wildlife like vicuñas, and reach the top of the world-famous Rainbow Mountain.
- Highlights: Rainbow Mountain, Ausangate lakes, Andean wildlife, and thermal springs.
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Duration: 3 Days / 2 Nights
- Perfect for: Adventurous travelers looking for a short, colorful, and high-altitude trekking experience.
Choquequirao Trek – The Hidden Inca City Adventure
If you crave a true off-the-beaten-path adventure, the Choquequirao Trek is your ultimate journey. Known as the “sister city of Machu Picchu”, Choquequirao (meaning “Cradle of Gold” in Quechua) is one of the last Inca strongholds — perched dramatically above the Apurímac Canyon in southern Peru.
Unlike Machu Picchu, this ancient site receives only a handful of visitors each day, offering a rare chance to explore Inca ruins in total peace. The hike to Choquequirao is physically demanding, but the reward is extraordinary: terraced slopes, temples, and plazas hidden in the cloud forest — all without the crowds.
The Choquequirao Trek is a powerful combination of history, culture, and challenge, making it perfect for explorers who want to walk in the footsteps of the Incas. Whether you trek for four days or combine it with Machu Picchu in a week-long expedition, every step feels like a discovery.
Choquequirao Trek Packages You Can Choose From
The Classic Choquequirao Trek 5 Days
The 5-day Choquequirao Trek is the most popular way to visit the hidden city of Choquequirao. This route leads you through the spectacular Apurímac Canyon — one of the deepest in the world — before climbing up to the archaeological site itself. You’ll spend a full day exploring the ruins with your guide before returning via the same trail.
- Highlights: Deep Apurímac Canyon, Choquequirao archaeological site, condor sightings, and stunning Andean scenery.
- Difficulty: Challenging (steep ascents and descents).
- Duration: 5 Days / 4 Nights.
- Perfect for: Adventure lovers seeking a remote and authentic Inca experience.
Choquequirao Trek 4 Days
For those short on time but eager to visit this hidden gem, the 4-day Choquequirao trek is an intense yet rewarding journey to the lost Inca city. You’ll descend into the Apurímac Canyon, camp near the river, and climb up to the Choquequirao ruins for an unforgettable guided tour.
- Highlights: Quick but immersive hike to Choquequirao, breathtaking canyon views, and archaeological exploration.
- Difficulty: Challenging (ideal for fit hikers).
- Duration: 4 Days / 3 Nights.
- Perfect for: Experienced hikers who want to explore Choquequirao with limited time.
Choquequirao Trek to Machu Picchu 7 Days
For the ultimate Inca adventure, the 7-day Choquequirao to Machu Picchu Trek connects two legendary Inca cities through remote Andean trails. This challenging route crosses mountain passes, lush cloud forests, and small Quechua villages before reaching the Sun Gate of Machu Picchu — a journey few travelers ever complete.
- Highlights: Choquequirao ruins, remote valleys, lush forests, Inca Trail connection, and Machu Picchu tour.
- Difficulty: Very Challenging (multi-day high-altitude trekking).
- Duration: 7 Days / 6 Nights.
- Perfect for: Passionate trekkers and history enthusiasts seeking the most epic route between two sacred Inca sites.
Huchuy Qosqo Trek – The Hidden Inca Trail of the Sacred Valley
If you want to experience the beauty of the Andes and Inca history without long, strenuous trekking days, the Huchuy Qosqo Trek is the perfect choice. Meaning “Little Cusco” in Quechua, Huchuy Qosqo is an impressive archaeological site located high above the Sacred Valley, offering sweeping views of the snow-capped Andes and the Urubamba River below.
This trek is ideal for those who prefer a short, scenic, and culturally rich experience. Along the way, you’ll pass through ancient Inca paths, remote villages, and beautiful mountain lakes, while enjoying the peaceful landscapes of the Cusco region.
With its gentle terrain and easy access, the Huchuy Qosqo Trek is suitable for families, first-time trekkers, and travelers who want a taste of the Andean highlands without the crowds of the Inca Trail.
Huchuy Qosqo Trek Packages You Can Choose From
Huchuy Qosqo with Inca Trail 4 Days
The 4-Day Huchuy Qosqo with Inca Trail package combines two incredible experiences — the scenic Huchuy Qosqo route and the world-famous Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu. It’s an unforgettable journey that connects you directly with ancient Inca history.
- Highlights: Huchuy Qosqo ruins, remote Andean villages, Inca Trail ruins (Wiñay Wayna), and Machu Picchu.
- Difficulty: Moderate.
- Duration: 4 Days / 3 Nights.
- Perfect for: Travelers who want both culture and adventure with a visit to Machu Picchu.
Huchuy Qosqo Trek to Machu Picchu 3 Days
The 3-Day Huchuy Qosqo Trek is the classic version of this route, offering a perfect balance of hiking, culture, and nature. You’ll cross high mountain passes, visit the Huchuy Qosqo ruins, and end your journey in the Sacred Valley — with an optional train ride to Machu Picchu.
- Highlights: Lamay Valley, Huchuy Qosqo ruins, Andean lakes, and traditional Quechua communities.
- Difficulty: Easy to Moderate.
- Duration: 3 Days / 2 Nights.
- Perfect for: Hikers seeking a short trek with authentic Andean culture and stunning scenery.
Huchuy Qosqo 2-Day Camping Trek
Short on time? The 2-Day Huchuy Qosqo Trek is one of the most accessible adventures in the Cusco region. You’ll camp under the stars in the Andes and visit the fascinating Huchuy Qosqo ruins before returning to Cusco.
- Highlights: Highland lakes, mountain passes, Huchuy Qosqo archaeological site, and peaceful camping experience.
- Difficulty: Easy.
- Duration: 2 Days / 1 Night.
- Perfect for: Families, beginner hikers, or travelers looking for a quick outdoor escape from Cusco.
Inca Jungle Trail – Adventure, Biking, and Ziplining to Machu Picchu
If you’re looking for an adventure that goes beyond hiking, the Inca Jungle Trail is the most exciting and action-filled route to Machu Picchu. This unique trek combines mountain biking, hiking, rafting, and ziplining — giving you a perfect mix of nature, adrenaline, and culture.
The journey begins high in the Andes Mountains and descends into the lush cloud forests and tropical valleys that surround Machu Picchu. Along the way, you’ll experience local coffee farms, Inca archaeological sites, and breathtaking jungle landscapes.
The Inca Jungle Trek is ideal for adventure seekers who want a fun and active way to reach Machu Picchu, without the crowds of the traditional Inca Trail. It’s also a great choice for travelers who love variety and outdoor sports.
Inca Jungle Trail Packages You Can Choose From
Classic Inca Jungle 4 Days
The Classic 4-Day Inca Jungle Adventure is the most popular version of this trek — and for good reason. You’ll start your journey with an exhilarating downhill mountain bike ride from the Andes into the jungle, followed by river rafting, hiking, and ziplining before reaching Machu Picchu.
- Highlights: Mountain biking, river rafting, hiking through coffee plantations, ziplining, and a guided Machu Picchu tour.
- Difficulty: Moderate.
- Duration: 4 Days / 3 Nights.
- Perfect for: Adventure enthusiasts who want an active, diverse experience leading to Machu Picchu.
Inca Jungle Trek to Machu Picchu 3 Days
Short on time but still want the excitement? The 3-Day Inca Jungle Trek offers a condensed version of the classic route — perfect for those with tight itineraries. You’ll still enjoy mountain biking, scenic hikes, and a visit to Machu Picchu.
- Highlights: Biking, jungle trekking, local villages, and Machu Picchu exploration.
- Difficulty: Moderate.
- Duration: 3 Days / 2 Nights.
- Perfect for: Travelers who want a thrilling adventure to Machu Picchu in less time.
Hidden Inca Routes: Unique Alternative Treks to Machu Picchu
Beyond the famous Inca Trail, Peru hides a network of lesser-known but equally breathtaking trekking routes that lead to the majestic Machu Picchu. These trails offer a perfect blend of adventure, history, and authentic Andean culture — ideal for travelers who want to escape the crowds and experience something truly special.
From the ancient Inca quarries of Ollantaytambo to the remote valleys of Vilcabamba, and the epic combination of Choquequirao, Vilcabamba, and Machu Picchu, each of these routes unveils a different side of Peru’s past and its spectacular mountain scenery.
Whether you’re looking for a moderate 4-day adventure or an intense 9-day expedition through lost Inca cities, these alternative treks to Machu Picchu will take you deep into the heart of the Andes — where history, nature, and spirituality meet.
Classic Inca Quarry Trek 4 Days
The Classic Inca Quarry Trek 4 Days is one of the least-crowded alternatives to the Inca Trail, offering a perfect mix of history, culture, and natural beauty. Over 4 days, you’ll hike through remote Andean villages, ancient Inca quarries, and breathtaking mountain passes before arriving in the Sacred Valley. This route ends with a scenic train ride to Machu Picchu.
- Highlights: Cachicata Inca quarries, Sun Gate (Inti Punku), Andean communities, and Machu Picchu visit.
- Perfect for: Travelers who want a quiet, off-the-beaten-path trek rich in Inca history.
Vilcabamba Trek to Machu Picchu 5 Days
The Vilcabamba Trek to Machu Picchu 5 days follows the footsteps of the last Inca rulers through lush valleys and remote highlands. This challenging 5-day expedition takes you through the historic region of Vilcabamba, the final refuge of the Inca Empire, before reaching Machu Picchu.
- Highlights: Hidden Inca sites, mountain passes, local Quechua villages, and Machu Picchu tour.
- Perfect for: History lovers and experienced hikers looking for a genuine Inca Trail alternative.
Choquequirao, Vilcabamba & Machu Picchu Trek 9D/8N
This Choquequirao 9-day trek is the ultimate Inca adventure — linking three of the most legendary sites in Peru: Choquequirao, Vilcabamba, and Machu Picchu. It’s a demanding journey through deep canyons, remote valleys, and lush cloud forests, retracing the lost paths of the Incas.
- Highlights: Explore Choquequirao ruins, trek across Vilcabamba Valley, and finish at Machu Picchu.
- Perfect for: Passionate trekkers and explorers seeking the most complete Inca experience in Peru.
