7 Best Machu Picchu Hiking Tours 2024: Ultimate Guide

Embark on a journey of discovery as we unravel the enchanting world of Machu Picchu Hiking Tours.

Whether you're a novice adventurer or an experienced trekker, this comprehensive guide provides detailed insights, lists, tables, and summaries for an unforgettable exploration of the iconic Inca site.

What will you find here?

1. Machu Picchu hikes and treks
2. Inca Trail
3. Salkantay Trek
4. Lares Trek
5. Ancascocha Trek
6. Huchuy Qosqo Trek
7. Choquequirao Trek
8. Inca Quarry Trail
9. Machu Picchu hiking tips
10. WHAT TO DO and WHAT NOT TO DO

Machu Picchu hikes and treks

Explore the diverse range of Machu Picchu hiking tours, each offering a unique experience. Here's an overview:

Inca Trail

The Inca Trail is one of the most famous trekking routes in the world, leading to the renowned Incan citadel of Machu Picchu in Peru. It's celebrated for its stunning combination of mountain scenery, subtropical jungle, and fascinating Incan ruins.

• Inca Trail highlights
  • Duration: 4 days
  • Terrain: Diverse landscapes, from cloud forests to ancient ruins
  • Typical Length: 4 days, 3 nights.
  • Variations: Shorter 2-day or longer 5-day options are also available.
  • Level: Moderate to challenging.
  • Terrain: Steep mountain paths, uneven steps, and high altitude.
  • Altitude: Peaks at 4,200 meters (13,780 feet) at Dead Woman's Pass.
  • Diverse Landscapes: Cloud forests, alpine tundras, and subtropical jungles.
  • Archaeological Sites: Phuyupatamarca, Runkurakay, and the iconic Machu Picchu.
  • Temperature Variations: Daytime temperatures can range from 12°C to 24°C (54°F to 75°F), while night temperatures can drop below freezing at higher elevations.

In the same way, experiencing the Inca Trail immerses you in the rich history of the Incas.

Salkantay Trek

The Salkantay Trek is a renowned alternative to the classic Inca Trail, offering a breathtaking route through diverse Peruvian landscapes and culminating in a visit to the iconic Machu Picchu.

• Salkantay Trek features
  • Snow-capped peaks: Majestic views of the Andean peaks.
  • Diverse landscapes: From high-altitude plains to lush cloud forests.
  • Typical Length: 4 days, 3 nights.
  • Variations: Shorter 2-day or longer 5-day options are also available.
  • Level: Moderate to challenging.
  • Terrain: Steep mountain paths, uneven steps, and high altitude.
  • Altitude: Peaks at 4,200 meters (13,780 feet) at Dead Woman's Pass.
  • Diverse Landscapes: Cloud forests, alpine tundras, and subtropical jungles.
  • Archaeological Sites: Phuyupatamarca, Runkurakay, and the iconic Machu Picchu.

Moreover, the Salkantay Trek is a nature lover's paradise, offering diverse ecosystems.

Lares Trek

The Lares Trek is a scenic and culturally enriching hiking route in the Cusco region of Peru, offering a less crowded alternative to the more famous Inca Trail, with a strong emphasis on cultural interaction.

• Lares Trek highlights
  • Duration: 4 days
  • Cultural immersion: Visit traditional Andean villages.
  • Typical Length: 4 days, 3 nights.
  • Variations: Shorter 2-day or longer 5-day options are also available.
  • Level: Moderate to challenging.
  • Terrain: Steep mountain paths, uneven steps, and high altitude.
  • Altitude: Peaks at 4,200 meters (13,780 feet) at Dead Woman's Pass.
  • Diverse Landscapes: Cloud forests, alpine tundras, and subtropical jungles.
  • Archaeological Sites: Phuyupatamarca, Runkurakay, and the iconic Machu Picchu.

Along the same line, the Lares Trek provides a unique cultural journey, connecting you with local communities

Ancascocha Trek

The Ancascocha Trek is a spectacular and less frequented hiking trail in the Peruvian Andes, offering an immersive experience for those seeking solitude and unspoiled natural beauty on their way to Machu Picchu.

• Ancascocha Trek advantages
  • Remote trails: Less crowded, offering solitude.
  • Scenic beauty: Breathtaking views of the Andes and valleys.
  • Typical Length: 4 to 5 days.
  • Variations: Some itineraries can extend up to 6 days, including a visit to Machu Picchu.
  • Level: Challenging.
  • Terrain: Steep trails, remote paths, and high-altitude passes.
  • Altitude: Includes high-altitude passes, with the highest point reaching over 4,600 meters (15,090 feet).
  • Remote Beauty: Less-traveled trails offer pristine and unspoiled landscapes.
  • Mountainous Terrain: Impressive views of the Andes, including snow-capped peaks and high-altitude lagoons.

Even more, the Ancascocha Trek is a hidden gem for those seeking a more secluded adventure.

Huchuy Qosqo Trek

The Huchuy Qosqo Trek is a relatively shorter and less strenuous route in the Cusco region of Peru, leading to the fascinating Inca archaeological site of Huchuy Qosqo.

• Huchuy Qosqo Trek overview
  • Duration: 3 days
  • Inca Ruins: Explore the lesser-known Inca site of Huchuy Qosqo.
  • Typical Length: 2 days, 1 night.
  • Variations: Day treks are available, but they offer a more condensed experience.
  • Level: Moderate.
  • Terrain: Mix of flat valleys and moderate climbs, with some steep sections.
  • Altitude: Highest point reaches around 4,000 meters (13,123 feet), with some sections at high elevations.
  • Andean Landscapes: Panoramic views of the Sacred Valley and the Urubamba mountain range.
  • Cultural Immersion: Interaction with local communities along the route.

In addition to the above, the Huchuy Qosqo Trek offers a unique perspective on Inca history.

Choquequirao Trek

The Choquequirao Trek is an adventurous journey to one of the most remote and lesser-known Incan archaeological sites in the Peruvian Andes.

• Choquequirao Trek features
  • Archeological site: Explore the ruins of Choquequirao.
  • Challenging hike: A longer and more strenuous trek.
  • Typical Length: 2 days, 1 night.
  • Variations: Day treks are available, but they offer a more condensed experience.
  • Level: Moderate.
  • Terrain: Mix of flat valleys and moderate climbs, with some steep sections.
  • Altitude: Highest point reaches around 4,000 meters (13,123 feet), with some sections at high elevations.
  • Andean Landscapes: Panoramic views of the Sacred Valley and the Urubamba mountain range.
  • Cultural Immersion: Interaction with local communities along the route.

In the same manner, the Choquequirao Trek rewards adventurers with a sense of accomplishment.

Inca Quarry Trail

The Inca Quarry Trail is an alternative trekking route to Machu Picchu, offering a unique and less crowded path compared to the more famous Inca Trail.

• Inca Quarry Trail Insights
  • Andean scenery: Experience the beauty of the Andes.
  • Typical Length: 3 to 4 days.
  • Variations: Some itineraries may extend to include additional exploration of surrounding areas or a visit to Machu Picchu.
  • Level: Moderate to challenging.
  • Terrain: Combination of ancient stone paths, steep mountain trails, and high-altitude passes.
  • Altitude: Reaches a high point at around 4,450 meters (14,600 feet) at the top of the Quarry pass.
  • Diverse Landscapes: Ranging from lush cloud forests to rugged highland terrain and panoramic mountain views.
  • Archaeological Sites: Features lesser-known Inca ruins, including the Quarry itself, an ancient stone quarry used by the Incas.

Moreover, the Inca Quarry Trail combines history with stunning natural landscapes.

Machu Picchu hiking tips

Planning a Machu Picchu hiking tour? Here are essential tips for a seamless and enjoyable experience:

1. Choose the Right Trek: There are several routes to Machu Picchu, including the classic Inca Trail, Salkantay Trek, Lares Trek, and others. Each has different difficulty levels, durations, and scenery. Research and choose one that suits your fitness level and interests.

2. Book in Advance: For popular treks like the Inca Trail, permits are limited and can sell out months in advance. Book early to secure your spot.

3. Acclimatize Properly: Many treks involve high altitudes. Arrive a few days early in Cusco or another high-altitude location to acclimatize and reduce the risk of altitude sickness.

4. Pack Wisely: Bring layers of clothing as temperatures can vary greatly. Essentials include a good pair of hiking boots, a waterproof jacket, a hat, sunscreen, insect repellent, and a headlamp. Also, pack a reusable water bottle and water purification tablets.

5. Hire a Guide or Join a Group: While some treks are possible independently, a guide or tour group can provide valuable insights, handle logistics, and enhance the safety of your journey.

WHAT TO DO and WHAT NOT TO DO

Let's explore the dos and don'ts of Machu Picchu hiking tours:

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) 

Can I hike to Machu Picchu without a guide?

No, hiking to Machu Picchu requires a licensed guide to ensure safety and adherence to regulations.

When is the best time to hike to Machu Picchu?

The dry season (May to September) is ideal, offering clear skies and better trail conditions.

Are there age restrictions for Machu Picchu hiking tours?

While there are no strict age limits, participants should be in good physical condition, and age restrictions may apply to certain treks.