Alternative Routes to the Classic Inca Trail: Salkantay, Lares, and Beyond

The Inca Trail may be legendary, but it’s not the only way to reach Machu Picchu. In recent years, routes such as Salkantay, Lares, Inca Jungle, and Choquequirao have become favorites among travelers seeking pristine landscapes and less crowded paths.

Guests staying at Casa del Sol Machu Picchu Boutique Hotel can finish any of these treks in comfort, enjoying rest, fine dining, and the serenity of Aguas Calientes.

Salkantay – The Route of the Sacred Mountain

The Salkantay Trek is one of Peru’s most breathtaking hikes, traversing glaciers, lush valleys, and remote Andean communities.

Duration: 4–5 days
Highest point: 4,650 m (Salkantay Pass)
Experience: challenging hike for nature and adventure lovers
Highlight: panoramic views of the snow-capped Salkantay and the descent from the Andes into the Amazon jungle.

Lares – The Cultural and Thermal Route

The Lares Trek blends living culture, wellness, and scenic beauty. It passes through traditional Quechua villages where ancient weaving and farming techniques still thrive.

Duration: 3–4 days
Highest point: 4,400 m
Experience: cultural immersion and relaxation in natural hot springs.
Highlight: direct interaction with local families and artisans.

Other Exclusive Routes

Inca Jungle: a mix of biking, rafting, zip-lining, and hiking for adventure seekers.
Choquequirao: a demanding route leading to an astonishing Inca city, still largely undiscovered.

The Perfect Ending at Casa del Sol Machu Picchu

After days of trekking, Casa del Sol Machu Picchu Boutique Hotel offers an elegant retreat:

Rooms overlooking the Vilcanota River
Spa and wellness experiences for recovery
Fine dining inspired by Sacred Valley ingredients

Every route ends with the same reward: reaching Machu Picchu and relaxing in comfort and style.

These alternative routes reveal a more intimate and authentic Peru. Whether you choose Salkantay’s grandeur or Lares’ cultural charm, your journey will end in luxury and serenity at Casa del Sol Machu Picchu Boutique Hotel—where adventure meets elegance.

Wonderful stay

The hotel is beautiful, elegant, and decorated very tastefully. The atmosphere very nice. Very comfortable, spacious room with terrace, jacuzzi, and river view !!Spectacular! The shower a delight. All the staff is very friendly and helpful. Congratulations on having such dedicated and cordial staff. The dinners were delicious, very thoughtful, and original dishes. Our stay at the hotel was memorable.

HAH_2014df

1/5

Excellent

We stayed one night there and really the service has been exceptional. I have nothing but good words for the establishment. We stayed in a suite which was excellent! It had a jacuzzi. Breakfast very good. The staff is always attentive. And the restaurant is a luxury. We took the 4-step menu and it has been spectacular. I would definitely go back and recommend it.

Lola L

2/5

Beautiful hotel and wonderful breakfast!

We enjoyed our stay here while visiting Machu Picchu. The hotel was very clean, the staff very friendly and polite, and the breakfast was amazing! Seriously, the breakfast was really a beautiful spread of so many options. It is in a nice location and easy to explore from there.

Overall a really nice and would recommend it!

Martin

3/5

Unforgettable

I went to Machupicchu with family and stayed at the Casa Del Sol hotel again. The hotel is just beautiful. There have been renovations since I was last there, the dining room is beautiful and crisp! An absolute delight to dine in. But the best part of the hotel is the people. The staff really goes above and beyond to make sure we have every need attended to! The staff welcomed us back like old friends, and even helped us celebrate my mother's birthday with a bottle of wine! We stayed for 2 nights, but we could have stayed longer just to enjoy the rooms and the spa.

Chrissy

4/5

Beautiful Hotel in Aguascalientes

I loved staying at the hotel so much! As soon as we got off our bus we were greeted by very friendly staff and walked less than 100 meters to the hotel. Their food is amazing and staying in this hotel is so relaxing, especially after a day spent in Machu Picchu. Every single one of the staff is so friendly and makes sure you are as comfortable and happy as you can be. I especially loved how the hotel was just next to the river and the beautiful rooms they provided. I hope I can go back someday!

Mikenzie T

5/5