Machu Picchu Treks

There are plenty of trek options to choose from as the Incas were master builders who constructed over 50,000km of roads across the Andes.

• The Inca Trail
• The Salkantay Trek
• The Lares Trail

1. The Classic Inca Trail

This is seen as one of the greatest treks in the world; see outstanding scenery, cloud forest, jungle, alpine tundra and lots of Inca ruins along the way. The trail snakes its way between the mountains to Machu Picchu. On the last day of the trek you will walk through the famed Sun Gate and see the sun rise above the ancient citadel.

The trail is normally 4 days/3 nights, however you can opt for a shorter 2 day trek. Permits for the Inca Trail sell out quickly, and must be booked in advance.

• Trek Level: Challenging. Good level of fitness needed and you must be properly acclimatised to the altitude.
• Accommodation: Camping.
• Permit Required.
• Maximum Altitude: 4200m (Dead Woman's pass).
• When to Go? April to October. (Closed during February)

2. The Salkantay Trek

This trail passes through 15 types of ecosystems as it winds its ways through the Andes until it arrives near the town of Agua Calientes (the gateway town to Machu Picchu).

The Salkantay trek is quieter than the nearby Inca trail. From the neighbouring mountain Llactapata you will see spectacular views of Machu Picchu. You will see some settlements on route, with local Quechua women walking back from market on the other side of the mountain!

The typical itinerary is 5 days/4 nights, however a shorter 4 day/ 3 night trek is another option.  You can even do a more luxurious 7-day trek, staying in mountain lodges with hot tubs and stunning food.

• Trek Difficulty: Challenging. Good level of fitness required & you need to be properly acclimatised.
• Maximum Altitude: 4600m while crossing the Salkantay pass.
• Best season: April-October. (We did this route in November & had pleasant weather).
• Accommodation: Camping or mountain lodges.
• No permit required.

3. The Lares Trek

A much quieter route through some of the most remote and spectacular scenery in the Andes. You will roam through local Quechua villages and get a real taste of the indigenous Andean culture. Most treks follow a 4 day/3 night itinerary. This trek finishes at the Sacred Valley town of Ollantaytambo where you will then catch a train to Agua Calientes. You also have the option of staying in a mountain lodge 

• Trek Difficulty: Moderate. Good level of fitness and proper acclimatisation required.
• Maximum Altitude: 4,450 m while crossing the Ipsaycocha Pass
• Best time to trek: April to October.
• No Permit Required.

We can plan your trek to Machu Picchu. We can design a Peru holiday to suit you!

EXAMPLE TREKKING ITINERARIES

PERU MAIN PAGE