Alternative Treks to Reach Machu Picchu: Salkantay, Lares, and More

When most travelers think about reaching Machu Picchu, the legendary Inca Trail immediately comes to mind. And while this iconic route is indeed a once-in-a-lifetime experience, it is also highly regulated, requires booking months in advance, and is often fully booked.

Fortunately, Peru offers several alternative treks that are equally breathtaking—some even more diverse in landscapes and culture—yet less crowded. These routes provide adventurous travelers the chance to experience the Andes in their purest form, interact with local communities, and arrive at Machu Picchu with a sense of discovery that feels entirely their own.

Let’s explore some of the most fascinating alternative treks:

The Salkantay Trek: Adventure Among Snow-Capped Peaks

Often ranked among the world’s top 25 treks, the Salkantay Trail offers a dramatic and varied landscape.

Duration: 4 to 5 days.
Altitude: Up to 4,650 meters (15,255 feet) at the Salkantay Pass.
Highlights: The turquoise Humantay Lake, views of the sacred snow-capped Salkantay Mountain, cloud forests, waterfalls, and lush jungle valleys.

Unlike the Inca Trail, this trek does not require a special permit, making it more accessible. However, it is physically demanding, and best suited for travelers with good fitness levels. The reward is unparalleled: diverse ecosystems, spectacular mountain scenery, and an eventual connection to the small town of Aguas Calientes, the gateway to Machu Picchu.

The Lares Trek: A Cultural Journey

If you’re looking to combine trekking with authentic cultural immersion, the Lares Trek is a perfect choice.

Duration: 3 to 4 days.
Altitude: Around 4,400 meters (14,435 feet).
Highlights: Remote Andean villages, interactions with Quechua-speaking communities, thermal hot springs, and mountain passes with spectacular views.

Unlike other routes, the Lares Trek doesn’t end directly at Machu Picchu. Instead, it leads you to the Sacred Valley, from where you take a train to Aguas Calientes. What makes this trek special is the chance to witness traditional Andean life, from weaving textiles with natural dyes to shepherding alpacas across high-altitude pastures.

The Inca Jungle Trek: For Adventurers Who Like Variety

The Inca Jungle Trek is an alternative designed for thrill-seekers who want more than hiking.

Duration: 3 to 4 days.
Altitude: Varies, generally lower than Salkantay or Lares.
Highlights: Mountain biking, river rafting, zip-lining, and trekking through lush jungle trails.

This route combines adrenaline with nature, offering panoramic views, tropical fruit plantations, and paths that eventually connect to Machu Picchu. It’s a unique way to experience the Andes while mixing outdoor adventure with culture.

Choquequirao Trek: The Lost Sister of Machu Picchu

For experienced trekkers seeking a challenging and less-traveled route, the Choquequirao Trek is a gem.

Duration: 7 to 9 days.
Altitude: Around 3,050 meters (10,000 feet), but with steep ascents and descents.
Highlights: The remote ruins of Choquequirao, often called “Machu Picchu’s sister city,” vast mountain valleys, and incredible solitude.

This trek does not directly lead to Machu Picchu but offers the chance to explore an equally impressive archaeological site, still being excavated and far less crowded. Some longer itineraries even combine Choquequirao with Machu Picchu for the ultimate Inca journey.

Why Choose an Alternative Trek?

Less Crowded: These routes don’t have the same daily limits as the Inca Trail.
Variety of Experiences: From high mountain passes to lush jungles, each trek offers a unique combination of landscapes.
Cultural Encounters: Many treks include direct interaction with local communities, offering a deeper understanding of Andean life.
Flexibility: Unlike the Inca Trail, many alternatives can be booked closer to your travel dates.

Practical Tips for Trekkers

Acclimatize in Cusco: Spend at least two days in Cusco or the Sacred Valley to adjust to the altitude.
Pack Smart: Bring layers, rain protection, and comfortable trekking shoes. Weather can shift dramatically.
Travel with a reputable guide: Local tour operators not only ensure safety but also enrich the journey with cultural and historical insights.
Respect the environment: Carry reusable bottles, avoid single-use plastics, and follow the principle of leaving no trace.

A Journey Beyond the Destination

Choosing an alternative trek to Machu Picchu is not just about finding another route. It’s about embracing a journey that blends adventure, culture, and nature, often in a more personal and intimate way than the traditional Inca Trail.

Each step, whether through snowy mountain passes, quiet highland villages, or vibrant jungle paths, becomes part of the memory that makes Machu Picchu even more special when you finally arrive.

After days of adventure and discovery on your chosen trek, you’ll want a place where you can relax, recharge, and reflect on your incredible journey. The Casa del Sol Machu Picchu Boutique Hotel, located in the heart of Machu Picchu Pueblo, offers boutique comfort, authentic Andean hospitality, and the perfect riverside setting to complete your experience in the Andes.

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.

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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