Embarking on a trek to Machu Picchu immerses you in the breathtaking landscapes of Peru. While the journey is important, most people embark upon the trek because of their interest in the destination: Macchu Picchu, an ancient Incan citadel nestled high in the Andean Mountains.
Machu Picchu is accessible through several hiking routes, each with its own benefits. These include the renowned Inca Trail, the challenging Salkantay Trek, or the lesser-known Lares Trek.
In this guide, we'll delve into the top three hiking routes to Machu Picchu, outlining their distances, durations, starting points, and what makes each trail distinct.
Hike Machu Picchu: Which Route Should You Choose?
The best Machu Picchu hike depends on experience and preference. The Inca Trail (four days) offers historic ruins and requires a permit. The Salkantay Trek (five days) will take you through more diverse landscapes and doesn't require a permit. The Lares Trek (two days) is a shorter option with fewer crowds.
Each of these Machu Picchu trails has its pros and cons. Let’s get stuck into the detail so you can choose the best hike for you.
Inca Trail
- Distance: 24.8 miles (40km)
- Walking Time: 4 days
- Start Point: The 82nd kilometre marker (Km 82)
- Best For: Following in the footsteps of the Incas
The Inca Trail is the most iconic path to Machu Picchu, following ancient paths laid by the Incas themselves. Trekkers begin at Km 82 and journey through cloud forests and alpine tundra towards the citadel. The trek leads you through the famous Sun Gate (Inti Punku), giving you a breathtaking view of Machu Picchu.
Due to its popularity, the trail can get busy in peak months. To prevent overtourism, hiking permits for the Inca Trail are limited to 500 people per day (including guides and porters), and they often sell out months in advance. It's essential to book early and be prepared for a physically demanding hike that rewards with rich historical insights and stunning vistas.
Salkantay Trek
- Distance: 44.7 miles (72 km)
- Walking Time: 5 days
- Start Point: Soraypampa
- Best for: Those who want a challenge
Despite being voted one of the best 25 treks in the world by National Geographic, the Salkantay Trek is still very much off the beaten path. This route takes you through diverse ecosystems, from snow-capped mountains near the Salkantay Pass (4,650m/ 15,255ft) to lush cloud forests.
Unlike the Inca Trail, the Salkantay Trek does not require permits, making it more accessible for last-minute planners. However, the trail's length and high altitudes demand good physical fitness and proper acclimatisation.
Another point of difference is that the Salkantay Trek ends at the town of Aguas Calientes, rather than Machu Picchu. You can either get a bus up the hill to Machu Picchu, or walk it.
Lares Trek
- Distance: 20.5 miles (33km)
- Walking Time: three days
- Start Point: near Lares village
- Best for: A shorter, less crowded alternative to the Inca Trail
If you’re looking for a short hike to Machu Picchu that avoids the crowds of the Inca Trail, then the Lares Trek might be your answer. The route is best known as a way to experience some Peruvian culture, as it takes you through the traditional Andean villages of the Lares Valley. Many traditional weavers live and work in the Lares Valley, giving the area a reputation for quality handcrafts.
The Lares Trek doesn’t require a permit and is still a lesser-known route to Machu Picchu. Although be aware that it is at a much higher altitude than the Inca Trail, topping out at the 4,830m-high (15, 846ft) Sicllakasa Pass. Like the Salkantay Trek, the Lares route concludes in Aguas Calientes.
Other Machu Picchu Hiking Routes
Beyond these main routes, there are several alternative routes offer unique perspectives and experiences:
- Choquequirao Trek: This challenging trek leads to the impressive Incan ruins of Choquequirao, often called Machu Picchu's sister city. The journey involves steep ascents and descents, crossing the Apurimac River before reaching the ruins, which are perched high in the mountains and remain relatively undiscovered by mass tourism. The trek usually takes 4-5 days, with an option to extend towards Machu Picchu for an epic adventure.
- Vilcabamba Trek: This remote trek takes you deep into the Vilcabamba mountain range. Starting near Huancacalle, hikers pass through lush valleys, cloud forests, and ancient archaeological sites such as Vitcos and Ñustahispana. The trek takes around 5-7 days and is perfect for those looking to explore rarely visited Incan history. It ends in Aguas Calientes.
- Inca Jungle Trek: A multi-activity route combining mountain biking, trekking, and optional activities such as white-water rafting and zip-lining. This trek takes travellers through the jungle, coffee plantations, and up river valleys before arriving at Aguas Calientes, the gateway to Machu Picchu. It typically takes 3-4 days and is ideal for thrill-seekers looking for variety in their journey.
Read More:
- 5 of the Best Hikes in Peru (That Aren't the Inca Trail)
- The Guide to Trekking Choquequirao, Machu Picchu's Sacred Sister
Still not decided on an adventure holiday in Peru? Take a look at the Salkantay Trek itinerary or your other adventure options in Peru.