Top 5 Inca Trail Alternative Treks
The Inca Trail to Machu Picchu is one of the most astounding trekking experiences in the world. Walking along a portion of an ancient path that once, and still, connected the Inca Empire through what is now Ecuador, Colombia, Chile, Bolivia, Argentina, and Peru is nothing short of epic. Naturally, it’s the most popular trek in Peru, and every year hundreds of travelers eagerly line up to take on the challenge.
But as amazing as the Inca Trail is, did you know there are other incredible routes that also lead to Machu Picchu? In this post, we’re sharing some of the best Inca Trail alternatives, perfect if the classic trail is sold out or if you're just feeling a little more adventurous and want to venture off the beaten path.
#1 Choquequirao Trek & Machu Picchu (5-day itinerary)
This 5-day trail connects one of the least visited but most impressive archaeological sites in Cusco, the Choquequirao citadel, and combines it with the world-famous Machu Picchu. Even though only about 30% of Choquequirao has been excavated, the site is absolutely majestic.
The trek starts in Cusco and involves hiking between 4 to 7 hours a day during the first four days. On day 4, you'll head to Ollantaytambo and board the train to Aguas Calientes (also known as Machu Picchu Town). The adventure ends with a visit to Machu Picchu on the final day.
This route is perfect for experienced hikers looking to explore a lesser-known side of Cusco. It offers that raw, adventurous feeling since Choquequirao still feels a bit like Machu Picchu must have when it was first rediscovered. Although it’s a challenging trek and requires excellent physical condition, it’s totally worth the effort!
#2 Lares Trek to Machu Picchu (4-day itinerary)
This itinerary stands out from the rest because it’s not just about stunning landscapes, it also gives travelers the chance to connect with traditional Peruvian culture in a meaningful way.
This route will have you hiking around 5 to 8 hours per day, so a moderate level of fitness is definitely recommended. To reach Machu Picchu, you'll board a train to Aguas Calientes on the third day, and then visit the citadel on the fourth day.
The Lares Trek is ideal for those looking for a mix of adventure and cultural immersion, as the route takes you through several Andean communities where you can witness daily life, local traditions, and even textile weaving up close. A true highlight? Hot springs! On route, you can enjoy a relaxing soak in mineral-rich thermal pools in the town of Lares or nearby, great for soothing sore muscles after a long day’s hike.
#3 Inca Jungle Trek (3-day itinerary)
This is a favorite route for many young travelers, as it packs multiple activities into one fun and adventurous itinerary! You’ll start by biking from the Malaga Pass down into the cloud forest, then soak in local hot springs, hike through plantations, and discover interesting sites along the way.
This trek is less physically demanding than some of the other options, and it can be done in 3 or 4 days, depending on your pace and preferences. On the third, you'll take a short train ride from Hidroeléctrica to Aguas Calientes, and finally, you'll explore Machu Picchu on the last day.
#4 Huchuyqosqo to Machu Picchu (3-day itinerary)
This is another great option if you're looking to avoid the crowds on your way to Machu Picchu. Not many travelers know about Huchuyqosqo or this trek, so you’ll likely only run into one or two small groups along the way!
Huchuyqosqo, which means “Little Cusco” in Quechua, is an archaeological site tucked into the Sacred Valley of the Incas. It’s believed to have been an important royal estate during the Inca Empire.
This 3-day trek includes hiking between 5 to 7 hours on the first two days at very high altitude, so it’s highly recommended to spend at least two days acclimatizing beforehand. One of the best parts of this experience? Camping isn’t required, instead, you'll enjoy a cozy homestay with a local family in the Sacred Valley, giving you a more authentic and personal glimpse into Andean life. For this trek, you’ll also board a train to Aguas Calientes and visit Machu Picchu on the last day.
#5 Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu (2-day itinerary)
Starting at Kilometer 104 on the train route from Ollantaytambo to Machu Picchu, the Short Inca Trail has become one of the best alternatives to the classic 4-day trek, especially when spots for the full route are sold out. It’s also a great choice if you're looking for a rewarding but less demanding hike, or if you just don’t have enough time for the full experience.
This 2-day itinerary packs a lot into a short timeframe. On the first day, you’ll hike for 6 to 7 hours (some people do it in 4, depending on their pace and fitness level). And the best part? You’ll actually be walking on the original stone path built by the Incas, passing archaeological sites like Wiñay Wayna before reaching the Sun Gate (Inti Punku) for that unforgettable first view of Machu Picchu.
It’s a shorter hike, but still full of history, beauty, and the magic of the Inca Trail itself.
Important Update:
Starting May 27th, Inca Trail entrance tickets include only the first day's trail access and panoramic citadel views (similar to Circuit 1) upon arrival. To explore the citadel interior, you must purchase an additional entrance ticket. For more information about Machu Picchu entrance tickets, read our ultimate Machu Picchu 2025 Travel Guide.
Now that you know there’s more than one way to reach Machu Picchu beyond the classic Inca Trail, which one would you choose? Whether you're looking for adventure, culture, or a more relaxed hike, there's an option that fits your travel style.
If you need more information or help planning your next trip to Peru, get in touch with us, we’d love to help you find the perfect route.
Happy traveling!
