Top 5 Hikes That Lead To Machu Picchu: Inspire Your Andean Adventure

The ancient Incan citadel of Machu Picchu stands as one of the world's most breathtaking destinations, drawing travelers from across the globe. While many visitors see it via train, hiking to this magnificent site offers a deeper, more rewarding experience. These trails through the Peruvian Andes combine stunning mountain scenery, cloud forests, and Incan history into unforgettable journeys.
Each path to Machu Picchu offers its own unique challenges and rewards. Some routes follow ancient Incan highways, while others take you through remote mountain passes with panoramic views. Whether you're seeking a classic multi-day trek or a shorter alternative, there's a trail that matches your adventure style.

1. The Classic Inca Trail

Where: Sacred Valley, Peru
The Challenge: Hike 26 miles over 4 days through ancient Incan pathways
The iconic Inca Trail is the most famous route to Machu Picchu, following original stone pathways built by the Inca civilization. This moderately difficult trek takes you through diverse ecosystems, from high alpine terrain to lush cloud forest, while passing numerous archaeological sites. The highlight comes on the final day when you enter Machu Picchu through the Sun Gate (Inti Punku) at sunrise.

Why do it?

• Incredible archaeological sites along the way, including Wiñay Wayna and Phuyupatamarca
• A perfect blend of natural beauty and Incan history

• 2. The Salkantay Trek

Where: Cusco Region, Peru
The Challenge: Hike 46 miles over 5 days, crossing a 15,000-foot mountain pass
For those seeking a more challenging adventure with fewer crowds, the Salkantay Trek offers a spectacular alternative. This route takes you around the sacred Salkantay Mountain (the second-highest peak in the region) and through remarkably diverse landscapes. You'll traverse high-altitude passes, hike through cloud forests, and even pass coffee and banana plantations in the lower valleys. We recommend tracking the hike via our Salkantay trek challenge.
Why do it?

• Less crowded than the Classic Inca Trail
• More dramatic mountain scenery and diverse ecosystems
• No permit limitations (though guides are recommended)

3. The Lares Trek

Where: Sacred Valley, Peru
The Challenge: Hike 21 miles over 3 days through remote Andean communities
The Lares Trek offers a perfect combination of cultural immersion and natural beauty. This moderately difficult route takes you through traditional Quechua villages where local life continues much as it has for centuries. You'll see locals farming with traditional methods, weaving colorful textiles, and herding llamas and alpacas. The trail also features hot springs, beautiful mountain lakes, and high passes with views of snow-capped peaks.
Why do it?

• Rich cultural experiences with local communities
• Less physically demanding than other options
• Unique opportunities to learn about Andean traditions and way of life

4. The Choquequirao Trek

Where: Apurimac Valley, Peru
The Challenge: Hike 40 miles over 4-5 days to "Machu Picchu's sister city" before continuing to Machu Picchu
The Choquequirao Trek is for true adventurers seeking remote wilderness and archaeological wonders. This challenging route first takes you to Choquequirao, an impressive Incan site that rivals Machu Picchu in size but sees only a fraction of the visitors. From there, the trail continues through the rugged Vilcabamba range before eventually connecting to pathways leading to Machu Picchu. 
Why do it?

• Experience two major Incan sites in one epic journey
• Extremely remote with very few other hikers
• Challenging terrain for serious trekking skills

5. The One-Day Inca Trail

Where: Sacred Valley, Peru
The Challenge: Hike 7 miles in a single day along the final section of the Classic Inca Trail
Short on time but still want the hiking experience? The One-Day Inca Trail allows you to sample the highlights of the classic route in just a single day. After taking the train to kilometer 104 of the railway, you'll hike uphill to join the Classic Inca Trail, visiting the impressive Wiñay Wayna ruins before entering Machu Picchu through the Sun Gate in the late afternoon.
Why do it?

• Experience the Sun Gate entrance without committing to a multi-day trek
• Perfect for those with limited time or hiking experience
• Combines the convenience of the train with the reward of hiking

Start Your Machu Picchu Adventure

Remember that most routes require advance planning, as permits are limited (especially for the Classic Inca Trail, which sells out months ahead). The best hiking season runs from May to September during the dry winter months, though shoulder seasons can offer fewer crowds with a slightly higher chance of rain.
Ready to track your hikes, connect with fellow hikers, and discover your next challenge? Hike List has you covered. Sign up at HikeList.io and start planning your next adventure today!