Alternatives to the Classic Inca Trail

Most people who travel on South America travel tours to Peru have Machu Picchu as their primary site of interest to visit. Many of these are interested in hiking there, particularly on the Classic Inca Trail. There are other treks that can be done in the area, however, that are also worth considering, especially if the Inca Trail turns out to be sold out. There are only 500 permits per day for the Camino Inca, and some of these are for support staff, so for Peru travel to Machu Picchu be sure to do your research. While these sell out fast, the good news is that you don't have to give up on trekking during your travel if you can't secure a permit.

Salkantay Trek

One of the most popular treks in the area, after the Inca Trail, has to the Salkantay Trek. Also known as the nature trail, this trek made it to the list of National Geographic's top 25 in the world. Instead of archaeological sites, this one is known for the variety of landscapes that you pass through which includes snow-capped mountains, valleys, lakes, rivers and waterfalls. On the route you will also see a great deal of fauna and flora. The trek is far less congested than the Inca Trail and no permit is required.

The trek is sometimes done in four days but is more commonly done in five, arriving the fourth night in Aguas Calientes and going up to tour Machu Picchu on the morning of the fifth. With the trek peaking at 4800 m, the hike is a particularly challenging experience. Therefore, it is important that you spend two to three days in Cusco to acclimate before attempting it. As with other treks to Machu Picchu, you will take the train back to Cusco when you are done with your tour. You could stay at Aguas Calientes for an extra night but speak to your tour operator ahead of time to keep them in the loop.

Lares Trek

After Salkantay, Lares is the next most popular trek to do in the Cusco area. In this case, however, you will not hike into Machu Picchu or into Aguas Calientes. You will be trekking in the mountains near Cusco and take the train from the Sacred Valley to Aguas Calientes. This isn't a direct route to your destination but you do get the opportunity to be up close and personal with some of the most renowned sites in the country and this region.

This particular trail is a cultural trek as it passes through several small Andean communities. Any inhabitants you see are likely to be living the same way their ancestors did a century ago. While you are visiting them, you will also get a chance to learn about their traditional weaving techniques. A highlight of this trail is the hot springs at the community of Lares. On the 3rd day of the trek, you will take a train in the afternoon to Aguas Caliente and have your tour of Machu Picchu the following morning. The trek doesn't go to such a high altitude, and it is shorter than Salkantay, so it might be a good compromise if you're not sure about the Salkantay trek.

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