Did you miss out on permits for the Inca Trail or do you prefer to avoid the crowds of the Salkantay Trek? Don't worry. There are alternative routes to Machu Picchu that offer adventure, culture, and equally stunning landscapes. In this article, you will discover the best trekking routes in Cusco to reach the Inca citadel through less-traveled paths full of history.
The legendary Classic Inca Trail, known for its ancient history and breathtaking views, is limited to only 500 people per day, including porters, guides, and travelers. This means permits sell out months in advance, especially between May and September. On the other hand, the popular Salkantay Trek, while more accessible in logistical terms, also fills up quickly during high season and can be quite crowded.
Given this scenario, more and more travelers are opting for alternative routes to Machu Picchu, not just as a practical solution, but as an opportunity to experience a more authentic, intimate, and transformative journey through the Andes.
Alternative routes do not require government permits with limited spots, so you can organize your trip with less anticipation and adapt the itinerary to your schedule and needs. Perfect for those who travel spontaneously or with more flexible planning.
Unlike the Inca Trail and Salkantay, these routes receive much less traffic, which means you can enjoy the silence of the mountains, open landscapes, and the solitude that every trekker seeks. They are ideal trails for those who want a real connection with nature.
Many of these routes, such as Lares, Ancascocha, or Huchuy Qosqo, pass through Andean communities where locals still live according to ancestral traditions. You will have the opportunity to share with them, learn about their customs, taste their food, and understand their worldview. It’s a unique way to get closer to the soul of the Andean world.
The alternative routes to Machu Picchu will take you through diverse ecosystems:
Highlands with views of snow-capped mountains like Verónica or Salkantay
Cloud forests with orchids and hummingbirds
Sacred Valley of the Incas, with its terraces and ancient villages
High jungle, with coffee plantations, waterfalls, and hot springs
Each route has its own charm and challenge, and many of them end in Aguas Calientes, allowing you to visit Machu Picchu as the perfect grand finale.
Machu Picchu is a dream destination for many travelers around the world. However, the classic Inca Trail, with its limited permits and high demand, is not always accessible. Fortunately, there are incredible alternative routes to reach Machu Picchu that offer stunning landscapes, rich culture, and the tranquility of trekking without the crowds.
In this article, we explore the best alternative treks to Machu Picchu: Inca Jungle Trek, Lares Trek, Inca Quarry Trek, Ancascocha Trek, and Huchuy Qosqo Trek. These trails provide unique experiences, from high mountain passes to Andean communities, and even adrenaline-filled adventures.
The Inca Jungle Trek is much more than a hike: it is a multisensory journey designed for those seeking adventure, nature, and an alternative experience to Machu Picchu with a dose of adrenaline. This route combines trekking with adventure activities such as mountain biking, rafting in Andean rivers, zip-lining through the jungle, and a well-deserved rest in the famous hot springs of Cocalmayo.
Unlike traditional trails, the Inca Jungle offers a varied journey that goes from the snowy peaks of the Andes to the warm valleys of the Cusco jungle, allowing travelers to experience changes in landscape, climate, and vegetation within hours. It is an excellent option for those who enjoy variety and want an active experience without sacrificing Inca history.
During the 4-day trek, you will cross the imposing Abra Málaga (4,350 m a.s.l.), walk along ancient Inca paths surrounded by lush vegetation, and enjoy unforgettable views from the Llactapata viewpoint, where you can see Machu Picchu from a unique and less explored angle.
The Lares Trek is much more than a path to Machu Picchu: it is an immersion into the living roots of the Andes. This alternative route is notable for its cultural value, ideal for travelers who want more than landscapes: an authentic connection with people, stories, and traditions.
Along the trail, you will walk through paths where time seems to have stopped. You will pass through high Andean communities such as Cuncani and Quiswarani, where Quechua remains the primary language, women hand-spin wool with ancestral techniques, and children cheerfully greet you from potato and quinoa fields.
You can observe traditional textile art, talk to llama and alpaca shepherds, and share moments with families who will open their homes and hearts. Additionally, you will enjoy unforgettable Andean landscapes: turquoise lagoons, hidden waterfalls, flower-filled valleys, and high mountain passes like Abra Pachacutec (4,700 m).
One of the most special stops is Maras, where you can see the ancient Inca salt mines, and Ollantaytambo, the last inhabited Inca town, before taking the train to Machu Picchu.
The Inca Quarry Trek, also known as Inca Cachicata Trek, is one of the most mysterious and less explored alternative routes to Machu Picchu. This 4-day journey takes you along ancient Inca paths used to extract and transport the enormous stones that built temples, fortresses, and ceremonial centers in the Sacred Valley.
During the trek, you will visit the archaeological site of Racaypata, still largely unknown, and ascend to the impressive Inti Punku (Sun Gate), a natural viewpoint that offers one of the most privileged views of the sacred Veronica Mountain.
You will also discover the Perolniyoc Waterfall, surrounded by lush vegetation and mystical atmosphere, and spend nights in quiet camps under a sky free of pollution. The trek ends at the majestic town of Ollantaytambo, one of the last living Inca towns, from where you will take the train to Machu Picchu.
Why choose Inca Quarry Trek?
Because it is a hidden gem in the Sacred Valley mountains. You will walk through a path that not only takes you to Machu Picchu but also to the heart of Inca engineering and symbolism, with memorable landscapes and a sense of discovery at every step.
The Ancascocha Trek is an epic route, considered one of the most challenging and beautiful alternative hikes to Machu Picchu. Located in a remote region of the Vilcabamba mountain range, this journey takes you through dramatic and silent landscapes, where every step is a personal conquest.
Selected by National Geographic as one of the 20 Dream Hikes in the World, this route combines high-altitude trekking with the majestic beauty of the Andes: snow-capped peaks like Salcantay, turquoise lagoons, deep valleys, mountain passes above 4,600 m, and original paths of the Qhapaq Ñan, the ancient Inca road system.
Why choose Ancascocha Trek?
Because it is the perfect trek for those seeking a deep, introspective, and wild experience. An opportunity to walk an ancestral path without crowds, accompanied only by condors, valleys, glaciers, and the Inca history that remains alive in every carved stone.
The Huchuy Qosqo Trek is the perfect option for those who want an authentic Andean experience in a short time, without the need for demanding physical preparation or prolonged acclimatization. It is a short but deeply meaningful trek, following ancient Inca paths, quiet landscapes, and one of the lesser-known archaeological treasures of the Sacred Valley of the Incas.
In just 3 days, this journey connects Tambomachay, near Cusco, with the town of Lamay, passing through Qoricocha Lake and the impressive Huchuy Qosqo archaeological site, whose name in Quechua means “Little Cusco.” This place, built on a plateau with privileged views of the valley, was an important political and agricultural center during the time of Inca Wiracocha.
Why choose Huchuy Qosqo Trek?
Because it is one of the most accessible and cultural alternative routes to Machu Picchu, ideal if you have a few days but don’t want to miss the magic of the Andes. It combines archaeology, landscape, and tradition without the demands of other higher-altitude or longer hikes.
The dry season (May to October) is ideal for its stable weather and clear skies. If you prefer fewer crowds, April and November are also good months. During the rainy season (January to March), some routes like Inca Jungle restrict activities like rafting.
| Route | Duration | Difficulty | Culture | Landscape | Adventure | Ideal for... |
| Inca Jungle | 4 days | Moderate | ★★☆☆☆ | ★★★☆☆ | ★★★★★ | Young adventurers, adrenaline seekers |
| Lares | 4 days | Moderate+ | ★★★★★ | ★★★★☆ | ★★☆☆☆ | Cultural immersion, families |
| Inca Quarry | 4 days | Moderate | ★★★★☆ | ★★★★☆ | ★★☆☆☆ | Hiking and archaeology |
| Ancascocha | 5 days | High | ★★★☆☆ | ★★★★★ | ★★★☆☆ | Experienced mountaineers |
| Huchuy Qosqo | 3 days | Easy | ★★★★☆ | ★★★☆☆ | ★☆☆☆☆ | Inexperienced travelers |
The best route depends on your fitness level, interests, and time available. If you seek adventure, Inca Jungle is ideal for its activities like cycling and rafting. For living culture, the Lares Trek is perfect, as it passes through Quechua communities. If you are passionate about archaeology, the Inca Quarry Trek connects you with the Inca Empire's construction roots. Ancascocha is excellent for experienced mountaineers who want solitude and challenge. If you have limited time, Huchuy Qosqo is the most accessible. All these routes end at Machu Picchu, but each offers a unique experience.
Yes, acclimating in Cusco (3,400 m a.s.l.) for at least 2 days is essential before trekking. Although some routes like Huchuy Qosqo are less demanding, most exceed 4,000 m and can cause altitude sickness (soroche). Sleeping at altitude, walking slowly, and staying well-hydrated are key. It is also recommended to do easy hikes beforehand, like the Rainbow Mountain or Humantay Lake, to prepare your body. Do not underestimate the altitude, even if you are in good physical condition.
The easiest option is the Huchuy Qosqo Trek. It has a short duration (2 to 3 days), gentle slopes, and moderate altitudes. It does not require technical equipment or previous experience, making it ideal for families, couples, or travelers with limited time. You could also consider the Lares Trek, which, despite having more demanding days, is done at a slower pace with logistical support. Avoid routes like Ancascocha or Salkantay if you are not used to long hikes or altitudes above 4,500 m.
If you seek solitude and tranquility in the Andes, the Ancascocha Trek is one of the most remote routes. It is considered a hidden gem for its landscape, difficulty, and low tourist traffic. Also, the Inca Quarry (Inca Cachicata Trek) is very little visited, allowing for an introspective hike with an archaeological connection. Unlike the classic Inca Trail, where you may cross paths with hundreds of hikers daily, these alternative routes provide a more intimate and quiet environment.
Yes! One of the main advantages of alternative routes is that they do not require limited permits like the Inca Trail. You can organize your trip even just a few weeks in advance, depending on the season. This gives you the flexibility to adapt the trek to your schedule. You only need to book entry to Machu Picchu and the return train from Aguas Calientes, which can sell out during the high season. Therefore, it is always recommended to book the package with a reliable local agency.
The best season is from May to September, during the dry season in the Andes. You will enjoy clear skies, stable weather, and safer trails. However, it is also the period with the most tourists. If you prefer fewer people and greener landscapes, the months of April and October are excellent alternatives. Avoid the heavy rainy months (January to March), as the trails can be slippery or have dangerous river crossings. Each route has its best moment, and choosing wisely makes all the difference.
Technically yes, but it is not recommended for most routes. Some, like Huchuy Qosqo, can be done independently if you have a good map and experience. However, routes like Ancascocha, Lares, or Inca Quarry cross areas of difficult orientation, with no signage or assistance. Additionally, trekking with a certified local guide not only guarantees your safety but also enriches the experience with historical explanations, cultural contact, and professional logistics. If it’s your first time, the best choice is to go with an operator like Huillca Expedition.
A complete package usually includes:
With Huillca Expedition, you can also enjoy comfortable campsites, contact with local communities, and experiences such as hot springs or cultural workshops. Everything is designed for you to enjoy an authentic and safe journey.
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