Making the trek to Machu Picchu in Peru is both an epic and enormous undertaking, with multiple ways to get there. Wondering which route is right for you? This guide breaks down the Classic Inca Trail, Short Inca Trail, the Salkantay Trek, and the Lares Trek. Each trail has its own unique challenges and highlights. Read on to find your perfect route!

Overview of Routes to Machu Picchu

Each route to Machu Picchu is suited for different skill levels and experiences, and trekking to the ancient city is a bucket-list item for hikers around the world. When choosing a route, consider factors such as physical fitness, time availability, and budget. These will significantly impact your trekking experience.

Classic Inca Trail

The Classic Inca Trail is a widely renowned route to Machu Picchu, boasting a variety of breathtaking landscapes and archaeological sites. Hikers spend an average of 3-4 days on this 27 mile (43 kilometers) journey, hiking between 5-9 hours each day.

Highlights along the Inca Trail include the Runkurakay Ruins, the formidable Dead Woman’s Pass, and finally, the Sun Gate, where hikers catch your first glimpse of Machu Picchu. From high-altitude passes to ancient Inca ruins, every step on this trail is steeped in history and natural beauty.

Key Highlights:

• Runkurakay Ruins – A fascinating Inca site.
• Dead Woman’s Pass – The highest point on the trail, offering panoramic views.
• Sun Gate (Inti Punku) – The first place where you’ll catch a breathtaking view of Machu Picchu.
• With its combination of challenging terrain, ancient ruins, and beautiful scenery, the Classic Inca Trail offers a deeply rewarding adventure.

Short Inca Trail

The Short Inca Trail is a 2-day trek option suitable for beginner hikers or families with younger children. Despite its shorter duration, this route offers a rewarding experience, combining moderate hiking with the opportunity to explore some of the region’s most iconic sites.

This shorter route covers about 8 miles and takes between 6-7 hours to reach Machu Picchu. The Short Inca Trail provides a perfect balance of adventure and accessibility, making it an ideal choice for those who wish to visit Machu Picchu with limited time or less hiking experience on the Machu Picchu hike.

Key Highlights:

• Enjoy the scenic beauty and archaeological treasures along the trail.
• Visit the Chachabamba Ruins and Wiñay Wayna, two of the most famous sites on the Inca Trail.
• The Short Inca Trail ends at the Sun Gate, where you'll get your first unforgettable view of Machu Picchu.
• This trek provides an ideal balance of adventure and accessibility while still delivering the iconic Inca experience.

Salkantay Trek

The Salkantay Trek is known for stunning scenery like snowy mountaintops, dense cloud forests, and lush jungles. Its highest point is at the Salkantay Pass at 15,190 feet (4,630 meters).

About 46 miles long and taking between 4-5 days to complete, the Salkantay Trek is a challenging adventure generally considered more challenging than the Classic Inca Trail. This scenic alternative route takes hikers into and out of valleys, over mountains, and through cloud forests while offering sprawling Peruvian views.

Key Highlights:

• Salkantay Pass – The highest point at 15,190 feet (4,630 meters), offering sweeping vistas of the surrounding mountains.
• Traverse diverse ecosystems, from high-altitude mountains to tropical jungles.
• The Salkantay Trek is considered more challenging than the Classic Inca Trail and is perfect for experienced trekkers.
• This trek provides a less-crowded and more rugged adventure while still leading to Machu Picchu.

Lares Trek

The Lares Trek is a lesser-known alternative to the Classic Inca Trail, offering a more authentic experience. This route provides opportunities to engage with local communities and their traditions and lifestyles. Hikers traverse breathtaking landscapes, including Andean mountains, lush valleys, and vibrant agricultural terraces on this 26 mile (42 kilometers) trail over 4-5 days.

The combination of cultural immersion and stunning scenery makes the Lares Trek a unique and enriching adventure. This trek is ideal for those seeking a deeper connection with the local culture while enjoying the natural beauty of the Andean region.

Key Highlights:

• Experience authentic Andean culture through visits to local villages and traditional weaving communities.
• Hike through breathtaking Andean mountain ranges, lush valleys, and vibrant agricultural terraces.
• Ideal for those interested in cultural immersion alongside natural beauty.
• This route offers a slower pace, a more serene experience, and a deeper connection to the people of the Sacred Valley.

Rainbow Mountain & Ausangate to Machu Picchu Trek (New Option)

For a truly unique adventure, the Rainbow Mountain Ausangate to Machu Picchu Trek is an 8-day journey combining dramatic landscapes with cultural encounters. This newly introduced trek is perfect for those looking to venture beyond the typical routes while still reaching Machu Picchu.

Key Highlights:

• Trek through the Ausangate Mountain, known for its colorful slopes and stunning natural beauty.
• Explore the famous Rainbow Mountain, an otherworldly landscape known for its vibrant hues.
• Hike through traditional villages where local culture and life remain untouched by modernity.
• The route provides an amazing way to connect with both the landscapes and the local communities of the Andes before reaching Machu Picchu.

This trek is ideal for those who are physically fit, looking for an extraordinary trekking experience, and wanting to see some of Peru's most famous landscapes.

Choosing Your Machu Picchu Route

Choosing the best trek depends on your preferences, fitness level, and the experience you want. If you’re after a classic Inca journey, the Classic Inca Trail or Short Inca Trail might be your best bet. For a more challenging, scenic experience, the Salkantay Trek or Rainbow Mountain Ausangate to Machu Picchu Trek are exceptional choices. If you're interested in cultural immersion and a quieter, more authentic route, the Lares Trek offers a great opportunity.

No matter which route you choose, each trek offers its own unique experience and unforgettable views of the majestic Machu Picchu.

Physical Fitness and Experience

Honestly assessing your fitness and experience ensures a more enjoyable and safe trekking experience. Each Inca Trail route presents its own physical challenges. Training is crucial for preparing for the physical demands of whichever trail you choose, with an emphasis on both cardio and strength. Training with a weighted backpack helps build the strength needed for the trek’s steep sections.

Time Availability

The duration of each trek significantly impacts your choice of route. Higher fitness levels make harder hikes more enjoyable, impacting your choice based on how many days you can hike in a row, how hard you want your hiking days to be, and how much time you can commit to the trek.

Hiker slots can sell out up to six months in advance, so be sure you can commit when scheduling your trek. Considering your time availability helps you select a route that fits your schedule and enhances your experience.

Budget Considerations

Budget is an important consideration when planning your trek to Machu Picchu. The cost for a guided slot via the Classic Inca Trail typically ranges between $550 and $980, depending on group size and tour options.

The cost of the Salkantay Trek can vary based on the services included and ranges from $650 to $980 per person. Planning your trek involves accounting for all other associated costs as well including flights, accommodations, permits, and additional services.

‍

Booking Your Machu Picchu Trek

Depending on your route, booking your Machu Picchu trek involves securing permits, choosing a reputable tour operator, and selecting the best time to hike.

Permits and Regulations

A government-issued permit is necessary for all hikers, tour guides, and support staff on the Classic Inca Trail. Permits are limited to 500 per day to ensure the preservation of the trail and the quality of the experience, so booking in advance is essential. The booking process requires going through a licensed tour operator, who will handle the reservation of dates and securing of permits.

Routes like the Salkantay Trek and the Lares Trek do not require permits (unless the route intersects with the Inca Trail), offering more flexibility for hikers, but selecting a tour operator for any Machu Picchu route is recommended to ensure a safe and enjoyable trek. Reputable operators provide experienced guides, quality equipment, and support services that ease and enhance your trekking experience.

Choosing a Tour Operator

Choosing a reputable tour operator is crucial for ensuring a safe and enjoyable trek to Machu Picchu for both safety and guidance. Look for operators with experienced guides, positive reviews, and a commitment to responsible tourism.

Guided tours offer additional benefits, such as insights into the history and culture of the region, assistance with logistics, and the convenience of pre-arranged accommodations and meals. Choosing a trustworthy operator lets you focus on enjoying your adventure without worrying about the details.

Best Time to Hike to Machu Picchu

The best time to visit Peru and hike the Inca Trail is during the dry season, specifically from May to October. Peak conditions are typically during June and July. However, crowds are also at their peak during the dry season. It’s wise to secure your spot around six months in advance.

Preparing for Your Machu Picchu Adventure

Proper preparation is key to a successful Inca Trail adventure. This includes acclimating to high altitudes, packing essential backpacking gear, and taking necessary health and safety precautions. Taking the time to prepare for your trek will have a positive impact on your adventure.

Acclimatization Tips

Acclimatization to high altitude is another important consideration, ideally spending 2-3 days in a higher elevation area like Cusco — 11,152 feet above sea level — before starting the trek to Machu Picchu.

Spending time at these elevations helps your body adjust and reduces the risk of altitude sickness. Avoiding strenuous activity and alcohol in the days leading up to your trek further aids acclimatization.

• Eat light meals
• Avoid strenuous activity
• Stay hydrated
• Drink tea from coca leaves
• Avoid alcohol
• Take deep, intentional breaths

Machu Picchu Packing Essentials

Packing the right essentials for multi-day adventures is vital for a comfortable and safe experience. Some gear is provided by tour companies when you book their guided services, but you’ll be responsible for all of your own clothing and some other basics.

Basic packing recommendations for hiking Machu Picchu include a quality sleeping bag, trekking poles, a hydration system, layered clothing, rain gear, extra socks, and a small duffel bag. For clothing and footwear, you’ll need quality hiking boots, base layers and thermal layers, sun protection like a rash guard and a hat, and weather protection like a rain jacket and rain pants.