If you’re looking for the best hikes to Machu Picchu, there are a few incredible options that range from challenging multi-day treks to shorter, scenic routes. Here are some of the best, along with tips, pros and cons, and the best times of the year to go:
1. Inca Trail (Classic 4-Day Trek)
This is the most famous route to Machu Picchu, and it’s an unforgettable experience. The trek takes about four days, winding through ancient Inca paths, passing stunning mountain scenery, ruins, and cloud forests. You’ll enter Machu Picchu through the Sun Gate at sunrise on the last day.
- Best time to go: May to September (dry season)
- Pros: Iconic route, rich in history, permits entry through the Sun Gate.
- Cons: Must book months in advance; permits are limited and it can get crowded.
- Tips: Get acclimatized to the altitude in Cusco before starting. Bring layers for cold nights and a rain jacket, even in the dry season.
2. Salkantay Trek (5 to 7 Days)
If you want a less crowded alternative to the Inca Trail, the Salkantay Trek is a great option. It’s a bit more challenging, crossing higher altitudes (over 4,600 meters), but the views are breathtaking. You’ll pass through dramatic mountain landscapes, including snow-capped peaks and tropical jungles.
- Best time to go: May to September (dry season)
- Pros: Fewer crowds, stunning variety of landscapes, no permit needed.
- Cons: Higher altitudes can make it tougher; longer and more physically demanding than the Inca Trail.
- Tips: Pack well for both warm and cold weather. Bring altitude sickness meds if needed, as the high passes are challenging.
3. Lares Trek (3 to 4 Days)
For a more culturally immersive experience, the Lares Trek offers a mix of beautiful Andean scenery and the chance to visit traditional villages. This hike isn’t as challenging as the Salkantay or Inca Trail, but it’s still full of stunning views. It ends with a train ride to Aguas Calientes, the town near Machu Picchu.
- Best time to go: May to September (dry season)
- Pros: Authentic cultural experiences, fewer tourists, flexible routes.
- Cons: Doesn’t lead directly to Machu Picchu; requires a train ride at the end.
- Tips: Spend time interacting with local communities to learn about their way of life. This trek is great for those interested in Incan culture beyond the ruins.
4. Inca Jungle Trek (3 to 4 Days)
If you’re into adventure, the Inca Jungle Trek combines hiking with mountain biking and zip-lining. You’ll pass through lush jungles, rivers, and remote areas, with less foot traffic than the traditional Inca Trail. This trek is perfect for those looking for an active and diverse experience before arriving at Machu Picchu.
- Best time to go: April to October (dry season)
- Pros: Variety of activities (biking, zip-lining), great for adventure seekers, fewer crowds.
- Cons: Less historical than other routes, some parts of the trail are rougher.
- Tips: Be prepared for a mix of activities, and pack lightweight gear. This trek is best for those who like an active challenge and want more than just hiking.
5. Vilcabamba Trek (5 to 7 Days)
This one is for serious hikers and history buffs. The Vilcabamba Trek takes you through some of the lesser-known Inca ruins and remote parts of the Andes. It’s considered one of the most difficult treks, but the reward is exploring ancient Inca settlements that most tourists never see.
- Best time to go: May to October (dry season)
- Pros: Off-the-beaten-path, rich in history, fewer crowds.
- Cons: Very challenging and remote; requires physical preparation.
- Tips: Only for experienced hikers. Be ready for long, tough days, but the quiet and historical significance of this trek make it worth it.
6. Short Inca Trail (2-Day Trek)
If you’re short on time but still want to experience the magic of hiking to Machu Picchu, the Short Inca Trail is perfect. It’s a two-day version of the classic Inca Trail, with the final stretch taking you through the Sun Gate to Machu Picchu. You get a taste of the full trek without committing to four days.
- Best time to go: May to September (dry season)
- Pros: Quick and easy, includes the Sun Gate entrance, less strenuous.
- Cons: Requires advance booking, can still be crowded.
- Tips: This is a great option if you’re on a tight schedule but still want the Inca Trail experience. Pack light since it’s a short trek.
7. Choquequirao Trek (8 to 9 Days)
This is one of the toughest hikes, but it takes you to Choquequirao, a remote Inca site often called the “sister city” of Machu Picchu. The trek is grueling, but you’ll be rewarded with fewer crowds and a much quieter experience. After Choquequirao, you can continue to Machu Picchu if you’re up for the challenge.
- Best time to go: April to October (dry season)
- Pros: Secluded, historical, challenging for seasoned hikers.
- Cons: Extremely difficult and remote, long days of hiking, not suitable for beginners.
- Tips: Be in excellent physical shape and prepared for a multi-day trek through challenging terrain. The reward is visiting a truly off-the-beaten-path Inca site.
Best Time of Year to Hike
- Best months: April to October is generally the best time for all hikes. The weather is dry, and the trails are more accessible.
- Peak season: June to August is peak tourist season, with the most visitors and highest prices. If you don’t mind crowds, this is when the weather is at its best.
- Shoulder season: April, May, September, and October are great alternatives to avoid crowds but still enjoy good weather.
- Avoid the rainy season: November to March is the rainy season. Trails can be slippery, and there’s a higher chance of road closures due to landslides.
General Tips for Hiking Machu Picchu
- Book in advance: For the Inca Trail, permits sell out quickly, sometimes six months ahead. For other treks, while permits may not be needed, booking early ensures you get a spot with a good tour company.
- Altitude sickness: Cusco and the surrounding hikes are at high altitudes, so spend a couple of days acclimatizing before starting any trek. Drink plenty of water and take it slow.
- Packing: Bring layers, as temperatures can change drastically from day to night. Also, pack rain gear, even during the dry season, as weather can be unpredictable.
- Fitness: Many of these treks are physically demanding. Make sure you’re in good shape before attempting them, especially for hikes like Salkantay and Choquequirao.
Each of these hikes offers something unique, so whether you’re looking for a challenge, cultural immersion, or just stunning landscapes, there’s an option for everyone!
