inca trail alternatives: other treks to machu picchu
Cusco
Inca Trail Alternatives: Other Treks to Machu Picchu
The Inca Trail is a 42 km (26-mile) trekking route that follows part of the Qhapaq Ñan, the vast Inca road network connecting Machu Picchu. As the only trek that enters the citadel through the Sun Gate (Inti Punku), it has become one of the world's most iconic hiking experiences and a bucket-list adventure for travelers from around the globe.
Its popularity, however, also means limited permits, high demand, and a very specific trekking experience. Fortunately, the Inca Trail is not the only way to reach Machu Picchu. Peru offers a variety of alternative routes, each showcasing a different side of the Andes, from snow-capped peaks and remote valleys to living communities and lesser-known archaeological sites.
At Explorandes, we've carefully designed a selection of trekking experiences for different travel styles, fitness levels, and interests. Whether you're looking for a quieter trail, a greater physical challenge, or a deeper cultural connection, the routes below offer different ways to experience the journey to Machu Picchu.
If you're still deciding whether the Classic Inca Trail is right for you, explore our complete Inca Trail Guide to learn about the route, permits, difficulty, and what to expect before comparing the alternatives.
quick facts: inca trail alternatives
| VARIABLE | FACT |
|---|---|
| Alternative routes covered | Salkantay Trek, Choquequirao Trek, Ancascocha Trek |
| Duration Range | 4 to 7 days, depending on route and itinerary |
| Highest Point Reached | Salkantay ~4,600 m (15,090 ft) confirmed; Choquequirao and Ancascocha ~4,600–4,650 m |
| Difficulty Range | Moderate to strenuous, depending on route and physical condition |
| Group Size | Small groups on all three routes |
| Operator | Explorandes, 40+ years of experience in the Peruvian Andes, B Corp certified |
What is the Salkantay Trek alternative?
For hikers drawn to expansive highland landscapes and dramatic mountain passes, the Salkantay region offers one of the most striking alternatives to the Inca Trail.
Explorandes operates a carefully designed five-day route that begins in the highlands south of Cusco and crosses a series of remote Andean passes, including Tambomachay and Cruzjasa, before gradually linking with sections of the original Inca road network near Paucarcancha.
Rather than following the more commercial Salkantay corridor, this version prioritizes solitude, progressive acclimatization, and scenic campsites in less-traveled areas. Wide alpine valleys, high ridgelines, and panoramic views of snowcapped peaks define the journey.
The trek eventually connects near Piscacucho (Km 82), where travelers continue toward Machu Picchu, combining a remote mountain crossing with a meaningful approach to the historic sanctuary. From Paucarcancha, hikers follow one of the most scenic sections of the Classic Inca Trail toward Wiñay Wayna and Machu Picchu.
See our Classic Inca Trail Itinerary for a detailed day-by-day overview of this section of the route.
Best for: Experienced hikers seeking high-altitude passes and a lesser-traveled route to Machu Picchu
Duration: 5 days / 4 nights
Highest point: Approximately 4,600 m (15,090 ft)
How difficult is the Choquequirao Trek compared to the Inca Trail?
Hidden within the Vilcabamba Range and overlooking the dramatic Apurímac Canyon, Choquequirao is one of the largest and most impressive Inca archaeological complexes in Peru. Far fewer visitors reach it compared to Machu Picchu, making the experience notably more secluded.
Explorandes offers this trek in two distinct formats:
- A 4-day round-trip expedition to Choquequirao
- A more demanding 7-day journey that continues onward to Machu Picchu, linking two major Inca sites in a single expedition
The route requires physical endurance, marked by steep descents into canyons followed by sustained ascents, but rewards hikers with expansive terraces, ceremonial plazas, and a sense of immersion rarely found on more frequented routes.
For those who value exploration beyond the expected, Choquequirao represents one of the most compelling alternatives to the Inca Trail.
Best for: Strong hikers seeking physical challenge and archaeological depth.
Duration: 4 days (round trip) or 7 days (extension to Machu Picchu)
Highest point: Approximately 4,600 m (verify exact pass if needed)
Ancascocha Trek: A Lesser-Traveled Approach to the Inca Trail
Often described as one of the most scenic yet least visited high-Andean routes, the Ancascocha Trek offers a quiet and expansive alternative to the Classic Inca Trail.
The journey begins near Soqma and traverses remote mountain valleys, alpine lakes, and traditional Quechua communities before reaching high passes with sweeping views of the surrounding peaks. Along the way, sections of the original Inca road network reappear, reinforcing the historical continuity of the landscape.
Unlike more trafficked routes, Ancascocha remains notably peaceful. The trek eventually connects with the Inca Trail near Paucarcancha, allowing hikers to complete the final stretch toward Machu Picchu with a sense of having taken a different path.
Operated with small groups and low-impact camps, this route reflects Explorandes’ longstanding commitment to responsible trekking in the Andes.
Best for: Trekkers seeking exclusivity, scenery, and a quieter connection to the Inca road system
Duration: 5 days / 4 nights
Highest point: Approximately 4,650 m (verify exact pass altitude)
Choosing the Right Alternative Trek
Each of these Inca Trail alternatives offers a distinct perspective on the Andes:
- If you value remote high-altitude crossings, the Salkantay route offers expansive mountain terrain and progressive acclimatization.
- If you seek archaeological depth and physical challenge, Choquequirao delivers a truly immersive expedition.
- If you prefer a quieter path that connects with original Inca roads before reaching Machu Picchu, Ancascocha provides a compelling balance of scenery and history.
All are operated by Explorandes with small groups, experienced guides, and a focus on minimizing environmental impact while supporting local communities.
Reaching Machu Picchu does not require following a single path. The journey can be shaped by the type of experience you seek, whether defined by remoteness, archaeology, or mountain landscapes.
To explore which alternative trek best aligns with your goals, contact us and begin planning your Andean journey.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best alternatives to the Inca Trail?
Explorandes operates three main alternatives to the Inca Trail: the Salkantay Trek, the Choquequirao Trek, and the Ancascocha Trek. Each route offers a different experience, from high-altitude mountain passes to remote archaeological sites, while still allowing travelers to reach Machu Picchu.
Is the Salkantay Trek harder than the Inca Trail?
The Salkantay Trek reaches approximately 4,600 meters (15,090 feet), higher than the Inca Trail's highest pass. Over 5 days and 4 nights, it crosses remote Andean terrain with more sustained altitude exposure, making it a physically demanding option better suited to experienced hikers.
How long is the Choquequirao trek to Machu Picchu?
Explorandes offers Choquequirao in two formats: a 4-day round-trip expedition to the archaeological site, or a more demanding 7-day journey that continues onward to Machu Picchu, linking two major Inca sites within a single expedition.
What makes Ancascocha Trek different from the Classic Inca Trail?
The Ancascocha Trek is a 5-day, 4-night route through remote valleys, alpine lakes, and Quechua communities, with far fewer travelers than the Classic Inca Trail. It eventually connects with the Inca Trail near Paucarcancha for the final approach to Machu Picchu.
Which Inca Trail alternative has the fewest crowds?
Choquequirao and Ancascocha both receive significantly fewer visitors than the Classic Inca Trail, which has a fixed daily permit limit. Choquequirao's remote canyon location and Ancascocha's less-traveled valleys make them the quietest options among Explorandes' alternative routes.
Can I combine the Choquequirao Trek with Machu Picchu in one trip?
Yes. Explorandes' 7-day Choquequirao itinerary extends beyond the archaeological complex and continues onward to Machu Picchu, allowing travelers to visit both major Inca sites in a single expedition instead of booking two separate trips.
Which Inca Trail alternative is best for high-altitude landscapes?
The Salkantay Trek is best suited to travelers seeking expansive high-altitude scenery. Its 5-day route crosses remote Andean passes including Tambomachay and Cruzjasa, offering wide alpine valleys and panoramic views of snowcapped peaks before connecting toward Machu Picchu.
