The 7 Best Hiking Trips to Machu Picchu
Peru is a country connected by ancient trails that have witnessed the passage of time. These paths, many of them ancestral, are still used in daily life, with several built with precision, showcasing expertise in engineering and hard manual labor. Today, walking these trails will take you through some of the most beautiful landscapes on the planet.
Among the countless treks this country offers, the most rewarding ones allow you to explore the Cusco region, often leading you to the majestic citadel of Machu Picchu, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Others take you to spectacular Andean landscapes, such as the impressive Ausangate, a hidden gem in the Cusco region. Choose the adventure that inspires you the most and explore the most wonderful corners of the heart of the Inca Empire!
Below, we present the 7 Best Hiking Trips to Machu Picchu and a bonus trek you’ll find at the end:
1. Inca Trail
The Inca Trail, or Qhapaq Ñan, is a network of roads over 700 years old, created to connect the entire Inca Empire. This iconic section takes you from the Sacred Valley to the famous Sun Gate, the original entrance to Machu Picchu.
It is the only hike that allows you to enter the citadel through the Sun Gate, offering unparalleled views of the cloud forest and exclusive access to archaeological sites. This ancient trail is very popular, so permits are limited, and you must plan ahead.
Typical Duration | 2 days (short), 4 days (classic), 5 days (premium) |
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Best Time | Dry season (May to September) |
Recommendations | Book months in advance, bring clothing for warm and cold weather, and sunscreen. |
Maximum Altitude | 4,215 meters (Warmiwañusqa Pass) |
Permits | Required (limited, book in advance) |
Difficulty | Moderate, with some challenging sections due to the altitude. |
Climate | Sunny days, cold nights. Possible rains from November to March. |
2. Salkantay Trek
The Salkantay Trek, considered by National Geographic as one of the top 25 treks in the world, is a less crowded option than the Inca Trail but no less spectacular. It starts in the snow-capped peaks of the Andes and takes you through diverse ecosystems to the cloud forest, passing by the stunning Humantay Lagoon.
It is a less regulated trek, more accessible, and offers opportunities to enjoy a glamping experience in a breathtaking natural setting. At the end of this adventure, you can also visit Machu Picchu.
Typical Duration | 5 days |
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Best Time | Dry season (April to October) |
Recommendations | Bring warm clothing, a flashlight, insect repellent, and consider altitude sickness. |
Maximum Altitude | 4,630 meters (Salkantay Pass) |
Permits | Not required |
Difficulty | Challenging, especially due to the altitude and weather changes. |
Climate | Varied, from extreme cold in the mountains to warmth in the cloud forest. |
3. Lares Trek
The Lares Trek is an ideal option for those seeking a more cultural and serene experience. Along the trail, you’ll have the opportunity to interact with local communities that keep ancient Andean traditions alive, such as weaving and herding.
This trek offers an authentic experience of life in the Andes, combined with stunning views and, if desired, the option to continue to Machu Picchu.
Typical Duration | 4 days |
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Best Time | Dry season (May to September) |
Recommendations | Bring clothing for varied weather, be in good physical condition, and book accommodation in Aguas Calientes if continuing to Machu Picchu. |
Maximum Altitude | 4,420 meters |
Permits | Not required |
Difficulty | Moderate, but the heights can be demanding. |
Climate | Generally sunny in the dry season, with cold nights. |
4. Ancascocha Trek
The Ancascocha Trek is a hidden gem. Nicknamed the Hidden Inca Trail, this lesser-known hike offers spectacular landscapes and a peaceful route, away from the crowds. Along the way, you can enjoy waterfalls, rivers, and the breathtaking Ancascocha Lake.
Typical Duration | 5 days |
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Best Time | Dry season (May to September) |
Recommendations | Bring proper high-altitude gear, walk slowly to avoid altitude sickness, and carry enough water. |
Maximum Altitude | 4,650 meters (Huayanay Pass) |
Permits | Not required |
Difficulty | Challenging due to altitude and rugged terrain. |
Climate | Sunny during the day, cold at night, especially in the mountain passes. |
5. Huchuy Qosqo Trek
The Huchuy Qosqo Trek is a less crowded option that starts in Cusco and takes you through the Sacred Valley to the archaeological site of Huchuy Qosqo. It’s a short trek but filled with panoramic views and deep cultural significance.
From here, it’s also possible to extend your adventure to Machu Picchu.
Typical Duration | 3 days |
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Best Time | Dry season (May to September) |
Recommendations | Ideal for those seeking a shorter hike. Bring comfortable clothing, some warm layers, and a water bottle. |
Maximum Altitude | 4,350 meters (León Punku Pass) |
Permits | Not required |
Difficulty | Moderate, with manageable slopes and great views. |
Climate | Sunny in the dry season, with cool nights. |
6. Choquequirao Trek
The Choquequirao Trek is one of the most challenging yet rewarding. Choquequirao, known as the “cradle of gold” in Quechua, is an archaeological complex even larger than Machu Picchu and is only accessible on foot. This trek offers an intense adventure that will connect you with the history and splendor of the Incas.
Typical Duration | 5 days |
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Best Time | Dry season (May to September) |
Recommendations | A good physical condition is required. Bring plenty of water, insect repellent, and sunscreen. |
Maximum Altitude | 3,050 meters (Choquequirao) |
Permits | Not required |
Difficulty | Challenging, due to the length and steep slopes. |
Climate | Warm during the day, cool at night. Possible rains outside the dry season. |
7. Inca Jungle
The Inca Jungle is an adventure for adrenaline lovers, combining hiking with biking, rafting, and zip-lining through the lush landscapes of the high jungle. Plus, you can relax in the Cocalmayo hot springs in Santa Teresa. At the end, you’ll also enjoy the incomparable visit to Machu Picchu.
Typical Duration | 4 days |
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Best Time | Dry season (May to September) |
Recommendations | Bring light clothing, insect repellent, sunscreen, and gear for adventure activities (bike, zip-lining, etc.). |
Maximum Altitude | 4,316 meters |
Permits | Not required |
Difficulty | Moderate, but includes additional activities like biking and rafting, adding to the adventure level. |
Climate | Hot during the day and rainy in the jungle during the wet season (November to March). |
Bonus: Ausangate Trek
The Ausangate Trek is perfect for hikers seeking a physical challenge and spectacular landscapes. Circling the sacred mountain of Ausangate, this trek will take you through glacial lakes, towering glaciers, and the famous Rainbow Mountain (Vinicunca). Along the route, many travelers opt for a Llama trek, where llamas, traditional pack animals in the Andean region, accompany you during the hike, helping carry gear and adding an authentic cultural touch. Walking alongside these noble creatures amidst such a stunning environment adds a unique dimension to the experience, further connecting you with the Andes’ heritage.
This trek does not lead to Machu Picchu, but it is an unmatched experience in the Cusco region for nature and adventure enthusiasts.
Typical Duration | 5 days |
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Best Time | Dry season (May to September) |
Recommendations | Consider altitude sickness, bring thermal clothing, and be prepared to hike above 5,000 meters. |
Maximum Altitude | 5,200 meters (Palomani Pass) |
Permits | Not required |
Difficulty | Challenging due to extreme altitude and low temperatures. |
Climate | Intense cold at high altitudes, with possible snowfall. |
Choose Your Adventure with Peru by Locals!
No matter which trek you choose, each will take you through breathtaking landscapes, whether in the Cusco region or reaching the imposing citadel of Machu Picchu. With Peru by Locals, your experience will be completely personalized and authentic, accompanied by expert local guides who will connect you with the history and culture of the Andes. Get ready for an adventure that will change your life and leave you with unforgettable memories!