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Best Alternative Treks to Machu Picchu–Are all the permits for the Classic Inca Trail sold out for the dates of your Peru adventure vacation? Do not worry!
We have other ideas for your hiking adventure to Machu Picchu. Because of the popularity of the Inca Trail, there are a number of other alternative treks to Machu Picchu which offer more solitude on the trail, breathtaking vistas, some Incan ruins, and include a visit to Machu Picchu. Peru Summit Adventures offers a variety of these hikes to reach to Machu Picchu, which are truly off the beaten path.
Cusco has many amazing trails most of them reach to Machu Picchu, these hiking trails take us on an adventure into the cultural heartbeat of the Andean people and lets us embrace its rich history at each ancient temples along the trail. Our hikes begin in Cusco, the original capital of the Inca civilization. Here we spend some time before our journey acclimating to the high altitude and immersing ourselves in the beauty of this red-roofed city.
From the tundra-alpine of Sacred Valley and Choquequirao to the highlands of Ausangate, our alternative treks to Machu Picchu are designed for those who prefer a hearty hike over a scenic drive. Our expert Trek Leaders/Guide bring you across ancient trails, pilgrim’s paths, and into the world’s most spectacular landscapes.
For those who want to be active, and enjoy the best sights and adventures in a region. We have expert Trek Leaders and private vehicles that get you right into the heart of the great outdoors. We cater to all levels from a beginning young hiker to an experienced mountain trekker, or a boomer with a life-long dream to hike through the Sacred Valley. Whatever the pursuit, our hikes are tailored just for you and yours. Hike past Incan temples along the unknown Inca Trails in the lush cloud forest, Choquequirao Trek, Salkantay Trek or tackle majestic Ausangate. Lace-up your boots and join us!–Best Alternative Treks to Machu Picchu.
Experience Highlights
Since 2014 and since the very first day of our operation, Peru Summit Adventures has been blazing new ways of experiencing in Alternative Treks to Machu Picchu. Our trailblazing is just one reason we are a uniquely qualified local company to ensure you have a trip of a lifetime.
We are the experts when it comes to customizing tours and treks and our incredible private signature series itinerary.
Safety is at the core of everything we do at Peru Summit Adventures. There is nothing that we take more seriously.
Our Guides with a deep knowledge of destination, route, and a focus on customer service makes all difference en route
Let’s make this world a better place for everyone and for everyone that lives in it! All is done in a responsible manner
Every itinerary is designed with precision: private high-grade camping equipment, satellite communication en route, handcrafted gourmet meals prepared with fresh Andean ingredients, and continuous ground logistics coordination from Cusco.
We practice regenerative travel that directly pays above-average living wages to our porters, muleteers and cooks, while protecting delicate Andean trails and preserving indigenous cultural heritage across our mountain communities.
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Read how travelers experienced the landscapes, pacing and local guidance that shape a thoughtfully planned Alternative Treks to Machu Picchu journey..
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So you have decided to trek in Peru but the Inka trail seems a bit crowded for you? You are keen to do an alternative trek but you’re not sure which trek suits best your interests and physical conditions? or which trek is more scenic or can you even combine this trek with a day hike, a day tour in Cusco, or in the Sacred Valley? Take a moment to share your travel goals and interests, one of our travel designers will be in touch shortly!
Use these practical answers to understand timing, preparation, pacing and the route choices behind Alternative Treks to Machu Picchu..
Drier months generally offer clearer trail conditions, while shoulder-season travel can bring quieter routes; permits, weather and access should be checked for the chosen itinerary..
Allow time to acclimatize in Cusco or the Sacred Valley and prepare for sustained ascents, uneven terrain and cold high-altitude mornings..
Routes range from moderate lodge-supported walks to demanding camping expeditions, so duration and support should match experience and fitness..
Expect glacial peaks, stone paths, cloud forest, highland villages and the first views toward Machu Picchu, supported by a route centered on less-traveled Andean routes, high passes, remote communities and rewarding approaches to Machu Picchu..
Cusco has many amazing trails, most of them reaching Machu Picchu. These hiking trails take us on an adventure into the cultural heartbeat of the Andean people and let us embrace its rich history at each ancient temples along the trail. Our hikes begin in Cusco, the original capital of the Inca civilization. Here we spend some time before our journey acclimating to the high altitude and immersing ourselves in the beauty of this red-roofed city.
Alternative Treks to Machu Picchu
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Here we introduce our best and top hikes to get to Machu Picchu which are not Classic Inca Trail, These trails go through the remote places of the Andes, trails connecting the highlands with the cloud forest, and trails which link the ancient Lost Incan Citadels, like Choquequirao (last residence of the Inca Emperor) with Machu Picchu, or trails going around the skirts of the highest peak in Cusco which is Ausangate where life is still intact as used to be years ago. At the heart of the Andes, Peru has some of the best hiking on the continent – the variety of trails is downright staggering. Each exhilarating day of hiking will end at our exclusive camps, where we can enjoy peaceful nights beneath a starry sky. Our fitting finale is a visit to the extraordinary Inca citadel of Machu Picchu. Any of the alternative treks are a true trek into the heart of the Inca Empire. Join us!
Continue from Alternative Treks to Machu Picchu into other regions of Peru, comparing landscapes, culture and travel styles before shaping a complete route..