Alternative treks to Inca Trail, Peru

Alternative treks to Inca Trail, Peru

What to do when the Inca Trail is sold out…

Permits gone

When those 500 much sought after permits are sold, often many months in advance, then that’s it. They are gone. But don’t despair – our alternatives are all great treks in their own right and are in fact preferred by many to avoid the hordes on the well-trodden paths.

Alternatives

We suggest you acclimatise for a minimum of 3 days and 3 nights in Cusco before starting any of these treks, because of the high altitudes involved.

Our Huchuy Qosqo, Lares, Salkantay and the Moon Temple trek all take you through the heart of the high Andes and include a guided visit to Machu Picchu. Alternatively choose to hike the remote Ausangate trek that takes you well off the beaten track and can still be combined with a visit to Machu Picchu before or after the trek.

Lares: (5 days) 

The Lares trek goes through a traditional weaving & farming area close to the Sacred Valley. You will see people dressed in authentic highland Peruvian clothing, farmers at work, herds of llamas etc. You also have the opportunity to bathe in some hot springs.

For a more upmarket In Style Lares trek, please see our Lodge to Lodge trek.

Mountain pass, Lares trek, Peru

Salkantay:  (5 days)

The Salkantay option is a bit more rugged and tougher, with higher passes. Starting off at 3,600ms this trek goes up to 4,600ms and then drops down into the high jungle before coming in the back door to Machu Picchu. A stunning high-mountain walk with great views of the big snow-capped peaks in the area and ending at Machu Picchu.

Or for a more upmarket In Style Salkantay trek, please see our Lodge to Lodge trek.

Humantay peak, Salkantay trek, Peru

Ausangate: (5 days)

This trekking adventure features a spectacular 5-day walk around Mount Ausangate in the remote and stunning Vilcanota Range. Fully supported, this trek features hot-springs, stunning mountain scenery and turquoise lakes – making it one of Peru’s finest hiking circuits.

You should be fully acclimatised before starting to walk as we will be camping in Altiplano well over 4,000m and crossing several passes at around 5,000m.

Or our Lodge to Lodge Ausangate trek.

Pack horse grazing with Ausangate peak behind

Moon Temple Trek: (5 days)

This Moon Temple trek is a great alternative to the Inca Trail, taking in some remote Inca ruins and many stunning mountain views on the way to Machu Picchu. This trek is truly off the beaten track. For anyone wishing to get away from other trekkers and to experience the beauty and rich culture of the Andes this is a perfect option.

Moon Temple Inca site, Peru

Huchuy Qosqo: (3 days)

Huchuy Qosqo is a fantastically varied and short trek with Inca Trails and archaeological sites en route to Peru’s jewel, Machu Picchu.  It is perfect for those seeking an alternative and interesting trek to Machu Picchu, but who don’t want to hike the longer trekking routes.

Inca terraces, Huchuy Qosqo, Peru

More information

If you’d like some more information about other alternative treks, itineraries, accommodation or tailor made options, as well as pricing information and the best time to go, please get in touch and we’ll be happy to help.

Contact us for more.