Alternative Machu Picchu Treks

The Huchuy Qosqo Trek (3 days) and the Lares Trek (4 days) are the best options for first-time trekkers. Both reach moderate altitudes (4,200 m and 4,680 m respectively), involve manageable daily hiking distances, and don't require prior trekking experience. The Salkantay Trek is also doable for beginners who are reasonably fit, though the Salkantay Pass at 4,630 m demands good acclimatisation.

No, unlike the Classic Inca Trail, none of our alternative treks require a permit. The Salkantay, Lares, Huchuy Qosqo, Choquequirao, and Rainbow Mountain treks are all permit-free, which means you can book with much more flexibility and without months of advance planning. You will still need a valid entry ticket to visit Machu Picchu itself, which we arrange as part of your package.

The Salkantay Trek is consistently the most popular alternative to the Inca Trail, it crosses a dramatic 4,630 m glacier pass, passes through three distinct ecosystems, visits Humantay Lake, and ends at Machu Picchu. It offers Inca Trail-level scenery without the permit restrictions. That said, "best" depends on what you're looking for: if culture matters most, choose the Lares Trek; if you want total solitude, choose Choquequirao; if high-altitude adventure is the goal, Ausangate is unmatched.

Technically the trail is not restricted, but we strongly recommend going with a licensed guide. The Salkantay Pass reaches 4,630 m and weather conditions can change rapidly, altitude sickness, sudden snowfall, and route navigation at high elevation are real risks. A professional guide also handles all logistics (huts, meals, horses support, train tickets to Aguas Calientes), so you can focus entirely on the experience. Vidal Expeditions guides are all certified, locally trained, and carry first-aid and oxygen equipment.

Difficulty varies by trek. The Huchuy Qosqo is easier than the Inca Trail. The Lares and Salkantay is comparable in difficulty to the Classic Inca Trail, moderate, with one challenging high-altitude pass. The Choquequirao Trek is significantly harder, with steep daily elevation changes of up to 1,500 m. The Ausangate Trek is the most challenging of all, crossing five passes above 5,000 m. None require technical climbing skills — just good fitness and proper acclimatisation..

The best trekking season runs from May to October, during Peru's dry season. Days are clear, trails are dry, and mountain views are at their best. June, July, and August are peak months, busier but reliably good weather. November to April is the rainy season; treks are still possible but trails become muddy and views are frequently cloud-covered. The Rainbow Mountain trek in particular is best avoided in the wet season due to difficult trail conditions above 5,000 m.

All our alternative treks depart directly from Cusco. For the Salkantay and Lares treks, we provide private transportation from your hotel in Cusco to the trailhead, which typically takes 2–3 hours. The Choquequirao Trek starts from Cachora, about 3.5 hours from Cusco. The Rainbow Mountain trek begins near Checacupe, roughly 2.5 hours away.

Because none of our alternative treks require permits, you have more flexibility than with the Classic Inca Trail. That said, we recommend booking at least 4–8 weeks in advance during peak season (June–August) to guarantee availability, especially for private group departures. For travel in the shoulder season (April–May or September–October), 2–4 weeks is usually sufficient.

Altitude is the main health consideration on all our treks. We strongly recommend arriving in Cusco (3,400 m) at least two days before your trek begins Our guides carry supplemental oxygen and are trained to recognise the symptoms of Acute Mountain Sickness. If you have a history of altitude sickness or cardiovascular conditions, consult your doctor before booking and consider the Huchuy Qosqo Trek (max 4,200 m) as the lower-altitude option. Diamox (acetazolamide) is available in Cusco pharmacies and is commonly used as a preventive

Both are popular multi-day alternatives to the Classic Inca Trail, but they offer very different experiences. The Salkantay Trek is a pure hiking route, challenging, remote, and centred on dramatic Andean mountain scenery. The Inca Jungle Trek is an adventure route that combines hiking with mountain biking, optional white-water rafting, and zip-lining as you descend from the highlands into the jungle. The Inca Jungle Trek tends to suit travellers who want adrenaline and variety; the Salkantay suits those who want a more traditional, nature-focused trekking experience.