6 Alternative Routes to Machu Picchu

Discover lesser-known trekking routes to Machu Picchu, as featured by National Geographic:

• Salkantay: A 5-day trek through high mountain passes (~4,600 m), glacial lagoons, cloud forests, and luxury camping options.
• Lares: A 4-day hike offering deep cultural immersion, traditional Andean villages, thermal baths, and views of Mount Veronica.
• Ancascocha: Known as the ‘Hidden Inca Trail’, this 5-day route offers remote landscapes, waterfalls, and the beautiful Ancascocha lagoon.
• Huchuy Qosqo: A shorter 3-day trek in the Sacred Valley, leading to the lesser-visited Inca site of Huchuy Qosqo with panoramic views.
• Choquequirao: A 6–7 day challenging trek to a massive Inca site considered even larger than Machu Picchu, perfect for adventure lovers.
• Inca Quarry Trail: A 4-day route that visits ancient stone quarries, including Cachicata, with scenic views of Mount Veronica and fewer crowds.