Looking for the best places for hiking in Machu Picchu ? Look nowhere else!

Machu Picchu, the iconic 15th-century Inca citadel nestled in the Andes Mountains of Peru, is one of the most sought-after hiking destinations in the world. Hiking to this UNESCO World Heritage Site is an unforgettable experience, offering breathtaking scenery, ancient ruins, and a deep connection to the rich history and culture of the Incas. While there are several ways to reach Machu Picchu, each route provides its own unique challenges and rewards. This guide will explore the best trials for hiking in Machu Picchu, including what to expect, the difficulty levels, and the best times to visit.

6 Best Trails For Hiking In Machu Picchu

1. The Inca Trail

• Length: 43 km (4 days)
• Difficulty: Moderate to Difficult
• Best Time to Hike: May to September

The Inca Trail is the most famous and classic route to Machu Picchu, following ancient pathways once used by the Inca people. This four-day trek is a bucket-list hike for many adventurers, winding through lush cloud forests, over high mountain passes, and past impressive Inca ruins such as Wiñay Wayna and Runkurakay. The trail culminates at the Sun Gate (Inti Punku), where hikers are rewarded with their first glimpse of Machu Picchu at sunrise—a truly magical experience.

The Inca Trail is a challenging hike, with steep ascents and descents, including the notorious Dead Woman’s Pass at 4,215 meters (13,828 feet). Due to its popularity, the trail is limited to 500 people per day (including guides and porters), and permits must be booked months in advance, especially during peak season. While the hike requires a good level of fitness, the cultural and historical significance of the trail, combined with the stunning landscapes, make it a once-in-a-lifetime journey.

2. Salkantay Trek

• Length: 72 km (5 days)
• Difficulty: Difficult
• Best Time to Hike: April to October

For those seeking an alternative to the crowded Inca Trail, the Salkantay Trek offers a more rugged and adventurous route to Machu Picchu. This trek takes hikers through diverse landscapes, from high-altitude mountain passes to tropical cloud forests. The trek’s highlight is the Salkantay Pass, which reaches a staggering 4,630 meters (15,190 feet), offering breathtaking views of the snow-capped Salkantay Mountain, one of the highest peaks in Peru.

The Salkantay Trek is longer and more physically demanding than the Inca Trail, but it’s less restricted, meaning permits are not required. The route is also less traveled, allowing hikers to enjoy more solitude and closer encounters with nature. The trek finishes at Aguas Calientes, the town at the base of Machu Picchu, from where hikers can catch a bus to the citadel. For those looking for an epic and less commercialized experience, the Salkantay Trek is an excellent choice.

3. Lares Trek

• Length: 33 km (3-4 days)
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Best Time to Hike: May to September

The Lares Trek is another great alternative to the Inca Trail, offering a more culturally immersive experience as it passes through traditional Andean villages, where hikers can meet local Quechua people and witness their way of life. The trek traverses the Lares Valley, known for its stunning mountain scenery, glacial lakes, and rich cultural heritage.

While the Lares Trek doesn’t end directly at Machu Picchu like the Inca or Salkantay treks, hikers are typically transported to Ollantaytambo after completing the trek, where they can take a train to Aguas Calientes and visit Machu Picchu the next day. This trek is less challenging than the Salkantay Trek but still involves high altitudes and cold nights, so preparation is key.

4. Choquequirao Trek

• Length: 64 km (4-5 days)
• Difficulty: Difficult
• Best Time to Hike: May to October

The Choquequirao Trek is one of the most challenging but rewarding hikes to Machu Picchu. This trek leads to the lesser-known Inca site of Choquequirao, often referred to as Machu Picchu’s “sister city,” due to its similar structure and importance. Located in the remote Vilcabamba region, Choquequirao receives far fewer visitors than Machu Picchu, offering a more authentic and secluded experience.

The trek to Choquequirao involves steep climbs and descents, crossing deep river canyons and passing through varied ecosystems. After reaching Choquequirao, hikers can continue on an extended trek that connects to Machu Picchu over several additional days, though this option requires a high level of fitness and experience in long-distance hiking. The trail is still relatively undiscovered, making it a great choice for adventurous hikers who want to explore the less-visited parts of the Inca Empire.

5. Inca Jungle Trek

• Length: 43 km (4 days)
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Best Time to Hike: April to October

The Inca Jungle Trek is perfect for adventure enthusiasts who want a more varied and adrenaline-pumping route to Machu Picchu. This multi-activity trek combines hiking with mountain biking, rafting, and zip-lining, offering a unique way to explore the Andean landscape. The trek begins with a thrilling downhill mountain biking ride from the high-altitude Abra Malaga Pass, followed by a mix of hiking, rafting, and zip-lining through the lush jungle.

While the Inca Jungle Trek is not as focused on history and culture as the Inca Trail, it offers plenty of excitement and beautiful scenery. The trek eventually leads to Aguas Calientes, where hikers can visit Machu Picchu on the final day. This trek is less physically demanding than the Inca or Salkantay Treks, making it a great option for those who want a more laid-back, yet adventurous, journey to the citadel.

6. Vilcabamba Trek

• Length: 72 km (7 days)
• Difficulty: Very Difficult
• Best Time to Hike: May to October

The Vilcabamba Trek is one of the most challenging and least-known for Hiking in Machu Picchu, taking hikers through the remote Vilcabamba region, the last refuge of the Incas after the Spanish conquest. The trail passes through dense jungles, high mountain passes, and ancient ruins, including Vitcos and Ñusta Hispana, two important Inca sites.

This trek is a true wilderness adventure, far from the crowds of the Inca Trail. It requires excellent fitness and stamina, as hikers must endure tough climbs and long days. The Vilcabamba Trek ends in the town of Lucmabamba, where hikers can catch a train to Aguas Calientes and visit Machu Picchu. Due to its remote nature and historical significance, this trek is ideal for those looking for an off-the-beaten-path experience.

Tips for Hiking in Machu Picchu

• Acclimatization: All of the Machu Picchu treks involve high altitudes, so it’s essential to acclimatize for at least 2-3 days in Cusco or the Sacred Valley before starting your hike. Altitude sickness can affect even the fittest hikers, so take it slow and stay hydrated.
• Permits: The Inca Trail has limited permits (500 per day), so it’s crucial to book months in advance, especially during the peak season (June-August). Permits for other routes are generally more flexible, but it’s still a good idea to plan early.
• Packing Essentials: Whether you’re hiking for a few days or a week, make sure to pack light but carry all the essentials. This includes proper hiking boots, warm clothing (especially for high-altitude nights), sun protection, and plenty of water.
• Best Time to Hike: The best time for hiking in Machu Picchu is during the dry season, from May to September. The weather is clear, making for better hiking conditions and spectacular views. The rainy season (November to March) can make trails muddy and difficult to navigate, though it’s still possible to hike at this time.
• Guided vs. Independent: While the Inca Trail requires hikers to go with a licensed guide, other treks like the Salkantay or Lares can be done independently or with a tour operator. Hiring a guide ensures a safer experience and deeper insight into the Inca culture.

Conclusion

Hiking in Machu Picchu is an unforgettable experience, with several diverse routes to choose from depending on your fitness level, interests, and desired level of adventure. Whether you opt for the classic Inca Trail, the remote Salkantay Trek, or the adventurous Inca Jungle Trek, each route offers its own unique rewards. With careful planning, preparation, and a sense of adventure, you’ll embark on a journey that will leave you in awe of the beauty and history of the Andes Mountains and the Inca civilization.