Machu Picchu a Place of Adventure

Surrounded on all sides by snow-capped mountains, tropical jungle valleys and an abundance of ancient archaeological sites, the sanctuary of Machu Picchu is a hotspot for hikers and nature lovers the world over. If you are a seeking a bucket list adventure to the Lost city of the Incas where you can connect with nature and learn about Andean history and culture, then there is the perfect hike waiting just for you!

This region of Peru is famous for its ancient network of Inca Trails, known locally as Qhapaq Ñan, that meander through the Andes Mountains for over 25,000 miles. The Classic Inca Trail brings thousands of visitors each year to Peru, who seek to embark on a journey of a lifetime to the citadel of Machu Picchu.

While the Inca Trail is celebrated and for good reason, there is also a wide range of treks to Machu Picchu that are often overlooked but are nonetheless worthy of exploration and fame. Here we will provide you with a list of our favourite trail in and around the citadel of Machu Picchu, which will enable you to pick the perfect adventure for you!

Hiking to Machu Picchu

Inca Trail

The famous Inca Trail to Machu Picchu is one of the principal attractions of Peru. Known locally as the ‘Camino Inca’, it consists of a network of ancient Inca paths that lead to the lost city of the Inca’s through the Sanctuary of Machu Picchu. The ‘Classic 4-day Inca Trail‘ is considered to be 1 of the 10 best hikes in the world, and is a 43 km (26 mile) route starting from the check point at Kilometre 82. The trail is notoriously challenging as it ascends and descends over the Andes Mountains, through Amazonian cloud forests and alongside ancient archaeological centers. Therefore, physical ability and thorough preparation, both mentally and logistically is recommended.

The ‘Short Inca Trail’ is a 2-day excursion, starting at the checkpoint of Kilometre 102. The 13km trail takes you on a journey through Inca history, visiting the impressive sites of Chachabamba and Wiñayhuayna, before culminating at the famous panoramic viewpoint atop the Inti Punku Sun Gate. The 2-day tour treats you to not one, but two chances to get to know Machu Picchu, with the in-depth guided tour of the Inca citadel taking place on day 2.

Due to the prestige and popularity of the Inca Trail, we strongly recommend that you book your place in advance and start preparing yourself for the challenge ahead. 

Inca Jungle Trail to Machu Picchu

The Inca Jungle Trail to Machu Picchu offers an adrenaline packed ride down trails and along rivers to the iconic citadel of Machu Picchu. Combining the exhilarating activities of downhill mountain biking, river rafting, zip-lining and hiking, you’ll no doubt arrive at the gates of the citadel with a huge smile on your face. A perfect alternative to the Inca Trail for those seeking an unforgettable adventure on route to the Lost city of the Incas. As well as enjoying a white-knuckle ride through the Andes, this tour will treat you to breathtaking views of the Sacred Valley and the historic Sanctuary of Machu Picchu.

Machu Picchu through the Salkantay Pass

The Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu is considered to be of the 25 best treks in the world by National Geographic. The Salkantay pass at 4,650 meters in altitude, has been a highlight for hikers on the way to Macchu Picchu the world over, and is one of the best alternatives to the Inca Trail for hikers wanting to reach the Lost City of the Incas.

The 4 or 5 day trail takes hikers on an epic 60 kilometer journey through snow-capped glacial mountains and Amazonian jungle valleys. Throughout the trek you will visit the turquoise shores of the glacial lake of Humantay aswell as the Inca ruins of Llaqtapata, which offers a stunning view of the Sanctuary of Machu Picchu from above. The penultimate day of the trail concludes in the town of Aguas Calientes, the official home of Machu Picchu.

Unlike the Inca Trail, access to the Salkantay Pass does not require advanced bookings, special licenses and permits and can even be achieved solo for those looking for a solitary adventure to Machu Picchu.

Trails inside Machu Picchu

Ascent to Huayna Picchu Mountain

Huayna Picchu is the iconic mountain that sits behind the archaeological site. The one you see in all the ‘postcard’ photos. The narrow Inca trail that leads to the top of the mountain, takes approximately 1-hour to climb and offers visitors a chance to get a bird’s eye view of Machu Picchu from above one of its famous peaks. At the top of Huayna Picchu there is a small archaeological site called the Temple of the Moon and a spectacular panoramic view of the Sanctuary of Machu Picchu.

Tickets for Huayna Picchu Mountain are limited to 400 people per day and are popular amongst visitors of Machu Picchu. For this reason, we recommend booking tickets in advance to ensure you get the bucket list moment you are hoping for.

Climb the Machu Picchu Mountain

Machu Picchu Mountain is located on opposing side of the citadel of Machu Picchu than Huayna Picchu Mountain. The 2-kilometre ascent to this mountain is far less steep, but the view of the sanctuary of Machu Picchu from the top is just as breathtaking. The hike usually takes 3.5 hours up and down, but the path is steady, providing visitors with an enjoyable walk. There are 800 spaces available each day for Machu Picchu Mountain, so we recommend that visitors book in advance to reserve their space on the trail.

Hike to Inti Punku

The 2km hike to the Inti Punku Sun Gate, by way of an Andean path and alongside agricultural terraces is also a popular destination for tourists. Upon arrival at the Sun Gate, you will be greeted by the most breathtaking, panoramic view of Machu Picchu. At 2,720 m / 8,923 ft, Inti Punku is strategically located to welcome noble guest of the Inca citadel, acting as a control gate for its elite visitors. As well as offering one of the most stunning views of the sanctuary and its surrounding mountains, the sacred site is also famed for framing the sunrise during the winter solstice in June.

Ascent to Putukusi

Putukusi means ‘Happy Mountain’ in Quechua and is considered to be one of the hidden gems of Machu Picchu since very few people visit it. Along with Huayna Picchu and Machu Picchu Mountain, the Putukusi Mountain makes up one of the mountains that surrounds the citadel of Machu Picchu. It is located at an altitude of 2,560 m / 8,500 ft, and involves a 2-hour hike in each direction from the gates of Machu Picchu. The trail leading the summit is relatively steep, and also involves climbing a set of wooden stairs that are fixed to the side of the mountain. But there is no doubting that once you have reached the top, Putukusi’s visitors will be treated to a panoramic view of the breathtaking landscape of the Sanctuary. 

Machu Picchu by Agency

Machu Picchu Viajes Peru can guide you to Machu Picchu and throughout your entire visit to Peru. We have more than 10 years’ experience in the tourism industry, offering our clients a trustworthy service and a wealth of knowledge about the geography and history of Peru. Our vacation plans and tour packages ensure that you have the most fulfilling experience within the timescales you are visiting, getting to know the country’s most prestigious sites and ticking off all your bucket list desires. Our tours make travelling in Peru cost effective and effortless, thanks to their all-inclusive nature of transportation, accommodation, and pre-determined entrance into the tourist sites. From the moment you contact us, we will ensure you are well informed and looked after, and have the perfect customised package to suit your itinerary. Peru is a magnificent country will an abundance of treasures to see and do, so look no further than Machu Picchu Viajes Peru to make your Machu Picchu dream adventure a reality!