Machu Picchu and the Sacred Valley

One of the most popular (and famous) treks and hikes in Peru, the Inca Trail is the only route that will take you directly to Machu Picchu. The journey may feel like a rollercoaster, filled with steep ascents and descents (including the infamous Dead Woman’s Pass), but it is most certainly a rewarding journey. 

Distance: 28 miles
Average duration: 4-5 days 
Average difficulty: Moderate difficulty. There is no experience required for this type of journey, but you should be in relatively good shape, able to comfortably walk for five to seven hours at a time, and prepared to sweat. The success rate of completing this trek is high, however, travelers should take time to acclimate before hiking, to reduce the chance of altitude sickness while on the trail. 

For hikers looking to avoid the crowds, the Lares Trek is an equally-impressive route with substantially fewer visitors. Enjoy the peace and quiet on this trail, which allows for sightings of llamas and alpacas, local villages, agricultural terraces, and striking scenery. 

Distance: 20-29 miles, depending on what route you choose
Average duration: 4 days 
Average difficulty: Moderate difficulty. There is no experience required for this type of journey however you should be in relatively good shape and able to comfortably walk for five to seven hours at a time, and prepared to sweat. The success rate of completing the Lares Trek is high, but travelers should take time to acclimate before hiking to reduce the chance of altitude sickness while on the trail. 

One of the most popular alternatives to the classic pilgrimage route of the Inca Trail, the Salkantay Trek will take you on a journey alongside the glacial lake of Humantay and past Salkantay Mountain, all while showcasing the natural beauty of the Andean Jungle. 

Distance: 34 miles
Average duration: 5 days 
Average Difficulty: Challenging. Previous trekking experience is highly recommended, as the days will feature six to eight hours hiking and you may be trekking at an altitude of 11,000 feet. You need complete confidence in your ability to trek for many days over difficult terrain. The success rate of completing the Salkantay Trek is high, but travelers should take time to acclimate before hiking to reduce the chance of altitude sickness while on the trail.

Set your sights on the ruins of Choquequirao, vast forests, and empty trails on this unique journey. If you’re dreaming of a trek that is both challenging and rewarding, the Choquequirao Trek is a step in the right direction. 

Distance: 40 miles
Average duration: 8-10 days 
Average Difficulty: Challenging. Previous trekking experience is highly recommended, as the days will feature six to eight hiking and you may be trekking at an altitude of over 11,000 feet. You need complete confidence in your ability to trek for many days over difficult terrain. The success rate of completing the Choquequirao trek is high, but travelers should take time to acclimate before hiking to reduce the chance of altitude sickness while on the trail.

One of the best-kept secrets of the Sacred Valley, the Vilcabamba Trek is reserved mostly for experienced trekkers. If you’re ready to tackle the three consecutive high mountain passes before descending onwards into the jungle, then this could be the perfect route for you. 

Distance: 39 miles
Average duration: 5 days 
Average Difficulty: Challenging. Previous trekking experience is highly recommended, as the days will feature six to eight hours hiking, and you may be trekking at an altitude of over 11,000 feet. You need complete confidence in your ability to trek for many days over difficult terrain. The success rate of completing  is the Vilcabamba Trek is high, but travelers should take time to acclimate before hiking to reduce the chance of altitude sickness while on the trail.

A short but sweet journey, the Huchuy Qosqo Trek is ideal for travelers who are short on time. Aside from the major draw of the Huchuy Qosqo ruins, hikers can enjoy low foot traffic and marvellous scenery during the journey to reach Machu Picchu.  

Distance: 12 miles
Average duration: 3 days 
Average difficulty: Moderate difficulty. There is no experience required for this type of journey, but you should be in relatively good shape, able to comfortably walk for five to seven hours at a time, and prepared to sweat. The success rate of completing the Huchuy Qosqo Trek is high, but travelers should take time to acclimate before hiking to reduce the chance of altitude sickness while on the trail.

You might not have heard about the Quarry Trail before, but it should definitely be top of mind when considering an alternative to the Inca Trail. Travelers can expect to see the impressive Andean scenery, local villages for unique cultural encounters, and much more. 

Distance: 16 miles
Average duration: 4 days 
Average difficulty: The Quarry Trail is challenging, but definitely manageable. The success rate of completing the Quarry Trail is high, but travelers should take time to acclimate before hiking to reduce the chance of altitude sickness while on the trail.