The Best Alternative Treks to Machu Picchu

The Best Alternative Treks to Machu Picchu

Looking for a more authentic, less crowded way to reach Machu Picchu? Peru offers a remarkable network of alternative treks to Machu Picchu—routes that deliver dramatic Andean scenery, cultural immersion, and a deeper sense of exploration beyond the Classic Inca Trail.

At Inca Land Adventures, we specialize in expert-led alternative Machu Picchu treks, designed for travelers who value quality logistics, safety, sustainability, and unforgettable landscapes. This guide is your complete, SEO-optimized resource to choosing the right trek—written to help you compare routes, understand difficulty, and book with confidence.

High-Altitude Adventures with Inca Land Adventures

Alternative treks offer powerful advantages:

• Fewer crowds and more wilderness

• Flexible departure dates (no Inca Trail permit limits)

• Diverse landscapes: glaciers, hot springs, cloud forests

• Strong cultural encounters with Andean communities

• Excellent value without sacrificing quality

The Salkantay Trek is consistently ranked among the best treks in South America. This route showcases Peru’s most dramatic alpine scenery, highlighted by the sacred Salkantay Mountain and the turquoise waters of Humantay Lake.

Why travelers love it

• Snow-capped peaks over 6,000 m

• Humantay Lake & Salkantay Pass (4,650 m)

• Salkantay inca trail pass 4920 m

• Perfect balance of challenge and comfort

• Ends with a visit to Machu Picchu.

• Best for: Adventure travelers, first-time trekkers, photographers
  Difficulty: Moderate to challenging

Why Choose an Alternative Trek to Machu Picchu?

1. Salkantay Trek – The Most Popular Inca Trail Alternative

2. Lares Trek – Hot Springs & Cultural Immersion

The Lares Trek is ideal for travelers seeking a cultural and wellness-focused trek. This route passes through traditional Quechua villages and finishes with relaxing thermal baths.

Highlights

• Natural hot springs (Lares Valley)

• Authentic Andean communities

• Less altitude stress than Salkantay

• Connects easily to Machu Picchu

Best for: Cultural travelers, couples, relaxed hikers
Difficulty: Moderate

3. Choquequirao Trek – The Ultimate Expedition

For true explorers, the Choquequirao Trek is unmatched. Often called the “sister city of Machu Picchu,” Choquequirao receives a fraction of the visitors and delivers an epic, off-the-grid experience.

Why it’s legendary

• Massive Inca archaeological complex

• Deep Apurímac Canyon landscapes

• Minimal crowds, maximum adventure

• Extendable to Machu Picchu (long expedition)

Best for: Experienced trekkers, explorers
Difficulty: Challenging

4. Ancasqocha Trek – High Andes & Solitude

The Ancasqocha Trek is one of Peru’s most scenic and least-traveled routes, crossing high passes and remote valleys before joining the Classic Inca Trail.

Why it stands out

• Remote, uncrowded high-Andean scenery

• Alpine lakes and glacier views

• Ideal for photography

• Seamless connection to Machu Picchu

Best for: Experienced hikers, photographers
Difficulty: Challenging

5. Moonstone Trek – History Without the Crowds

The Moonstone Trek follows ancient Inca paths through archaeological sites rarely visited by tourists, ending in the Sacred Valley.

Highlights

• Inca ruins like Killarumiyoc

• Cultural storytelling with expert guides

• Quiet trails and sacred landscapes

• Excellent Inca Trail alternative

Best for: History lovers, culture-focused travelers
Difficulty: Moderate

Why Book with Inca Land Adventures?

At Inca Land Adventures, we don’t just guide treks—we craft experiences.

Our Difference

• Licensed, expert local guides

• High-quality camping & meals

• Ethical porter treatment

• Small groups & custom departures

• Safety-first altitude protocols

We specialize in alternative Machu Picchu treks, ensuring you reach the Lost City with knowledge, comfort, and unforgettable memories.

Which Alternative Trek Is Right for You?

If You Want…Choose This Trek

Iconic landscapes Salkantay Trek

Hot springs & culture Lares Trek

Extreme adventure Choquequirao

Remote photography AncasqochaInca

history & solitude Moonstone Trek

Start Your Journey to Machu Picchu Today

Choosing an alternative trek means choosing freedom, authenticity, and discovery. Whether you’re looking for high-altitude adventure, cultural immersion, or quiet mountain trails, Inca Land Adventures has the perfect route for you.

👉 Contact us today to secure your dates, customize your trek, and experience the best alternative treks to Machu Picchu—done right.