Best Trekking Tours to Machu Picchu

There aren't as many mesmerizing landscapes anywhere on the globe as in Peru. A trekking mecca with soaring, glaciated, and well-kept ancient ruins, Peru has become a prerequisite destination for every aspiring hiker and traveler.

Travelers also have plenty of opportunities to marvel at the pristine water bodies and lush alpine valleys as they go on their long walks. And even with the vast experience the local guides hold, no one can claim to be acquainted with the picturesque South American realm.

However, a couple of trekking tours might interest you and thus help you plan your trip to Peru.

Classic Inca Trail to Machu Picchu

Predominantly the most popular in Peru, it also makes the bucket list for many hikers across the globe. The Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, famously known as Camino Inca/ Inka, is a hiking track in Peru that ends at Machu Picchu. The Classic Inca trail stretches about 26 miles, approximately 42km long, and can be hiked over four days and three nights. Being one of the most sought-after tours, you might need to book months early and obtain the prerequisite permits before arriving in the country.

Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu

The path in the Sacred Valley will take you through the Willkapampa Ranges to one of the most splendid peaks in the Andes. The trek is moderately challenging, with a maximum altitude of over 6000m at Aguas Calientes, taking you 4-5 days to complete.

Lares Trek

A great alternative if you fail to make the Inca Trail, the Lares Trek takes you through the valley from Ollyantambo. It is much less crowded and a much more authentic route. Visitors can bathe in the hot springs and spend time in the Quechua settlements. The maximum altitude is 4550m at Lares, a moderate climb taking three days to complete.

Quarry Trail Trek

The up-and-coming Quarry Trail is fast gaining traction for its lesser-known ruins. Travelers are astonished at the ancient ruins and gravelly structures nearby Ollyantambo town. The trail requires no permit and will take 2-3 days to complete.

Huchuy Qosqo Trek

For something off-the-beaten-track, a day trip from Cusco through the beautiful Andean scenery. Travelers spend a day among nature away from the urban noise while marveling at the artistic stonework Inca buildings called Collcas used for grain storage.

Short Inca Trail

Enjoy the expansive views of the Inca ruins, mountains, lush subtropical vegetation, and ecological varieties. The path stretches through the national park past the Sun Gate with the privilege to site the Machu Picchu Citadel. The trail has a maximum altitude of 2730m and should take two days to complete.

Choquequirao Trek

It was the last city to succumb to the Spanish, and its majestic building is one of a kind. Situated in Cusco and can be seen through thick forests. The trek is pretty challenging due to the steep descent and ascent, with a maximum altitude of 3050m taking you four days to complete.

Ausangate and Rainbow Mountain Trek

Travelers take a path rich with history along the sacred mountain trek, just as the Incas once did. On the track, travelers can enjoy a portion of Peru's Quechua culture and the most pristine sights. The trail has a maximum altitude of 5150m and should take 5-7 days to complete.