The Machu Picchu archaeological site is one of the most famous sites in the world. World-renowned, it represents the most recognised icons of the Inca civilisation.
According to archaeologists, the city was built around 1450, and was abandoned during the Spanish conquest. It is has been listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site and has become the largest tourist attraction in South America.
To reach Machu Picchu, there are many different routes depending on your interests and physical condition. The traditional Inca Trail remains the most famous trek, but it requires booking well in advance as the Peruvian Government has set a limit of 500 people allowed on the trail each day to preserve the path.
Here are four lesser-known (yet no less amazing) Trek to Machu Picchu that many people have never heard of, but are incredible ways to experience the Andes en route to Machu Picchu:
One alternative to the Inca Trail Trek is the Jungle Adventure. This trek offers the possibility to do different activities such as biking, rafting, or zip-lining on your way to Machu Picchu. You will pass through little villages and discover the local life in the mountains. Enjoy the chance to immerse yourself in the culture and the traditions of Inca villages. This trip is the perfect combination of trekking and getting your adrenaline rushing with exciting activities. You have the choice of including or not the rafting and zip-lining activities.
(Physical Requirement: 3)
This is the most physically challenging trek to reach the fantastic archaeological site of Machu Picchu. You will trek at a high altitude and cross a high pass at 4,650 meters above sea level, passing by the majestic Humantay and Salkantay mountain peaks standing over 6,000 meters. You will pass through indigenous villages named Soraypampa and Santa Teresa and discover their communities. You will get the chance to marvel at a fabulous sunrise at the magical site of Machu Picchu and take unforgettable pictures of the Inca site. This trek can be done in 4 or 5 days. The 4-day tour costs more than the 5-day one because it includes more transportation along the way.
(Physical Requirement: 4)
Another excellent alternative to the Inca Trail is the Lares Trek. This low-altitude trek is aimed at people interested in discovering remote local communities and their way of life. You will immerse yourself in the Peruvian countryside and the local culture. This trek will offer you fascinating views of the Andes Mountains, villages, and glacier lakes. You will be passing through Peruvian villages where people still live as the Incas used to. Enjoy getting off the beaten path and immersing yourself in local culture and traditions.
(Physical Requirement: 3+)
This is a newly discovered route traversing the Andes mountains towards Ollantaytambo, where you can hop on the train to reach Aguascalientes’ town. This trek will offer you amazing sceneries with waterfalls and Inca ruins, as well as the chance to pass by a beautiful remote Sun Gate and visit breathtaking archaeological sites en route to Ollantaytambo. From Ollantaytambo, you will take the train along the striking Urubamba River Valley with spectacular views to reach Aguascalientes. Choose to do this trek in 3 or 4 days.
(Physical Requirement: 3+)