{"id":5033,"date":"2023-10-27T18:27:48","date_gmt":"2023-10-27T23:27:48","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.salkantaytrekking.com\/blog\/?p=5033"},"modified":"2026-02-20T16:30:52","modified_gmt":"2026-02-20T21:30:52","slug":"the-7-best-treks-to-machu-picchu","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.salkantaytrekking.com\/blog\/the-7-best-treks-to-machu-picchu\/","title":{"rendered":"The 7 Best Treks to Machu Picchu"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<p><strong>Peru<\/strong> is a country connected by walking trails, probably none of which are new. Ancient history was played out along these ancestral paths, and modern man continues to use them to go about his daily business. Some were intentionally built of stone with engineering prowess and manual labor. Others are dirt paths that were trodden down from years of use walking up and down the mountains.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>What they have in common is that they are surrounded by, undoubtedly, some of the most beautiful landscapes on the planet! <strong>This country has an infinite number of spectacular treks to explore<\/strong>, but possibly the most rewarding hikes Peru offers are those that lead to our beloved Wonder of the World. The World Travel Awards has named it the \u201cBest Tourist Attraction in the World\u201d for several years. Of course, I\u2019m talking about UNESCO\u2019s champion, The Historical Sanctuary of <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.salkantaytrekking.com\/machu-picchu-tours\/\">Machu Picchu<\/a><\/strong>!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Trekking to <strong>Machu Picchu<\/strong> is definitely the best way for an able-bodied traveler to get to the citadel. The surrounding mountains were a huge part of Inca culture, and spending time in them will amplify your experience once you actually get to that important site. There are several trail options available to take advantage of this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Here are the 7 best treks to Machu Picchu:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-yoast-seo-table-of-contents yoast-table-of-contents anchor-links\"><ul><li><a href=\"#h-inca-trail\" data-level=\"2\">Inca Trail<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#h-salkantay-trek\" data-level=\"2\">Salkantay Trek<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#h-lares-trek\" data-level=\"2\">Lares Trek<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#h-ancascocha-trek\" data-level=\"2\">Ancascocha Trek<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#h-huchuy-qosqo-trek\" data-level=\"2\">Huchuy Qosqo Trek<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#h-choquequirao-trek-nbsp\" data-level=\"2\">Choquequirao Trek\u00a0<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#h-inca-quarry-trail\" data-level=\"2\">Inca Quarry Trail<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#h-inca-jungle\" data-level=\"2\">Inca Jungle<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-inca-trail\">Inca Trail<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Typical Length:&nbsp;<\/strong>4 days<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Difficulty:&nbsp;<\/strong>Moderate<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>The Inca Trail, or <strong><em>Qapaq \u00d1an<\/em><\/strong>, is a 700-year-old network of roads built to connect the Inca Empire from one end to another, stretching across 6 South American countries! It was a huge factor in the empire\u2019s success as it allowed military mobilization and communication via chaskis, the messengers who ran across these trails.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Today&#8217;s most well-known portion connects the Sacred Valley of the Incas to the original entrance of Machu Picchu at the <strong>Sun Gate <\/strong>above the city. This is the portion you\u2019ll hear referred to as the <strong>Inca Trail<\/strong> today, and it\u2019s won an enormous amount of recognition and awards worldwide. It\u2019s a one-of-a-kind ancestral trail bathed in history, and it\u2019s the only hike that enters Machu Picchu from the Sun Gate. You\u2019ll enjoy seeing the cloud forest from an insider\u2019s perspective and visiting archeological sites only accessible by foot! Because of its popularity, there are a lot of restrictions, <strong>requirements,<\/strong> and important things to know before you go.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Doing the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.salkantaytrekking.com\/trekking-in-peru\/inca-trail\/trek-inca-trail-machu-picchu-cusco-peru\/\"><strong>Inca Trail to Machu Picchu<\/strong><\/a> is an unforgettable experience. It&#8217;s a highly popular adventure, and permits quickly run out, so plan.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-9d6595d7 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:100%\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.salkantaytrekking.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/09\/trek-machu-picchu-inca-trail.jpg\" alt=\"Trek to Machu Picchu by Inca Trail\"\/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">TREK TO MACHU PICCHU BY INCA TRAIL<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:100%\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.salkantaytrekking.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/09\/trail-Inca-Trail.jpg\" alt=\"Trail Inca Trail\"\/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">TRAIL INCA TRAIL<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-salkantay-trek\">Salkantay Trek<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Typical Length:&nbsp;<\/strong>5 days<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Difficulty:&nbsp;<\/strong>Challenging<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Per National Geographic, the <strong>Salkantay Trek<\/strong> is one of the six best alternative treks to Machu Picchu, as well as one of the top 25 hikes in the world. I agree! It boasts more eco-diversity than the Inca Trail and is cheaper, less crowded, and less strict. The expedition offers the best of both worlds. It starts among the grandeur of the Andes\u2019 sacred snow caps and glacial lakes and reaches the tropical jungle and cloud forest. You\u2019ll even visit one of Cusco\u2019s top destinations, <strong>Humantay Lake<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The landscapes on this trail will leave you with your mouth wide open, your camera full of surreal photographs, and your heart content. On top of all that, the Salkantay Trail offers an opportunity to enjoy exotic glamping, and that can really change your experience completely! If you decide to <a href=\"https:\/\/www.salkantaytrekking.com\/trekking-in-peru\/cusco\/trekking-machu-picchu-salkantay-llactapata\/\"><strong>do this trek<\/strong><\/a>, be sure you know how to prepare to have the best experience possible!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-9d6595d7 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:100%\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.salkantaytrekking.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/09\/trek-machu-picchu-salkantay-trek.jpg\" alt=\"Trek to Machu Picchu by Salkantay\"\/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">TREK TO MACHU PICCHU BY SALKANTAY<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:100%\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.salkantaytrekking.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/How-Strenuous-is-Salkantay-805x1024.jpg\" alt=\"Strenuous Salkantay Trek\"\/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">STRENUOUS SALKANTAY TREK<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-lares-trek\">Lares Trek<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Typical Length:&nbsp;<\/strong>4 days<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Difficulty:&nbsp;<\/strong>Moderate<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>The Lares Trek is another of National Geographic\u2019s six best alternative treks to Machu Picchu and is <strong>even less crowded than Salkantay<\/strong>. This trail\u2019s claim to fame is that it provides an opportunity to observe genuine rural life in the Andes. The Lares Valley is home to local farmers and artisans, and along the trail, hikers will interact with them as they go about their tradition-dense daily life: herding, weaving, cooking, etc.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The stunning <strong>backdrop<\/strong> of this scene is snowy Mount Veronica with its glacial lakes, waterfalls, rivers, native trees, and colorful valleys. At the start of the trail, in the town of Lares, you\u2019ll find medicinal hot springs to relax in before <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.salkantaytrekking.com\/trekking-in-peru\/lares-trek\/lares-trek-to-machu-picchu-quiswarani-huaran-cusco-peru\/\">the trek<\/a><\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-9d6595d7 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:100%\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.salkantaytrekking.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/09\/The-Lares-Valley.jpg\" alt=\"The Lares Valley\"\/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">THE LARES VALLEY<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:100%\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.salkantaytrekking.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/09\/lares-trek-classic.jpg\" alt=\"Lares Trek Classic\"\/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">LARES TREK CLASSIC<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-ancascocha-trek\">Ancascocha Trek<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Typical Length:&nbsp;<\/strong>5 days<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Difficulty:&nbsp;<\/strong>Challenging<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>This is an extraordinary trek, <strong>sometimes called the Hidden Inca Trail <\/strong>or Super Inca Trail. As per the nickname, it twists its way through the towering Andes on the original Inca Trail. It was one of 20 Hiker\u2019s Dream Treks written about by National Geographic. It could be the best alternative trek to Machu Picchu as it\u2019s remote and highly scenic. It\u2019s Peru\u2019s best-kept secret, packed to the brim with spectacular Andean landscapes, untouched by human hands.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>You\u2019ll enjoy a high, free-falling waterfall, meander along a charming, rumbling river in open valleys, and then challenge yourself to cross over snowy mountain passes before descending into the cloud forest. Of course, we can\u2019t forget the trail\u2019s namesake: the dazzling <strong>Ancascocha Lake<\/strong>! The trail is mind-blowing! And you\u2019ll have it all to yourself, except for llamas, alpacas, condors, and the locals.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The <a href=\"https:\/\/www.salkantaytrekking.com\/trekking-in-peru\/ancascocha-trek\/ancascocha-to-machu-picchu-trek-5-days\/\"><strong>Ancascocha trek<\/strong><\/a> is an adventure that combines challenges, natural beauty, and a unique cultural experience. It&#8217;s an excellent choice if you want to explore a less-traveled route to Machu Picchu and enjoy nature in its purest form.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-huchuy-qosqo-trek\">Huchuy Qosqo Trek<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Typical Length:&nbsp;<\/strong>3 days<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Difficulty:&nbsp;<\/strong>Moderate<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Here\u2019s another hike for you to do without being overrun by other visitors. It\u2019s in the<strong> <\/strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.salkantaytrekking.com\/traditional\/cusco\/sacred-valley\/\"><strong>Sacred Valley of the Incas<\/strong><\/a> near Cusco and leads to an extensive and highly impressive Inca military and administrative cente<strong>r<\/strong>, an archeological site only accessible by hiking. It\u2019s situated on a vast plateau overlooking the surrounding snow-capped peaks of the Vilcabamba Mountain Range, and the entire path leading there is a pilgrimage through picturesque scenes of the Andes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Its name means \u201cLittle Cusco,\u201d it\u2019s one of the local hikes that uses the ancient Inca Trail and will help you continue to piece together the past as you travel around Peru! This is the only<strong> <\/strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.salkantaytrekking.com\/trekking-in-peru\/huchuy-qosqo\/huchuy-qosqo-trek-to-machu-picchu\/\"><strong>hike to Machu Picchu<\/strong><\/a> that starts in Cusco, itself, beginning in the archeological site of <strong>Tambomachay<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-9d6595d7 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:100%\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.salkantaytrekking.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/09\/The-Lares-Trek-best-alternative-treks.jpg\" alt=\"The Lares Trek-best alternative treks\"\/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">THE HUCHUY QOSQO TREK<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:100%\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.salkantaytrekking.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/09\/The-Lares-Trek.jpg\" alt=\"The Lares Trek\"\/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-choquequirao-trek-nbsp\">Choquequirao Trek&nbsp;<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Typical Length:<\/strong>&nbsp;7 days<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Difficulty:&nbsp;<\/strong>Challenging<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>National Geographic has called this one of the most beautiful hikes in the world and one of the six best alternative treks to Machu Picchu. You\u2019ll visit the archeological complex of <strong>Choquequirao<\/strong>, which means \u201c<strong>cradle of gold<\/strong>\u201d in the native language of Quechua. Would you believe its construction is more impressive and extensive than its sister city, the World Wonder? It\u2019s only partially excavated, so who knows what the future will hold for this amazing site.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>But be warned: this <a href=\"https:\/\/www.salkantaytrekking.com\/trekking-in-peru\/choquequirao\/choquequirao-to-machu-picchu-trek-7-days\/\"><strong>trek\u2019s difficulty<\/strong><\/a> resembles the hike to Mount Everest Base Camp! It\u2019s an incredible historical site, as it was one of the Inca\u2019s last refuges as they retreated into the jungle to escape the Spanish conquistadors. Only multi-day trekkers can experience this place. After visiting the site on day two, you\u2019ll follow in the footsteps of the Incas in their last days, further into the cloud forest across the mountains.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-9d6595d7 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:100%\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.salkantaytrekking.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/09\/The-archeological-complex-of-Choquequirao-cradle-of-gold.jpg\" alt=\"the archeological complex of Choquequirao, which means \u201ccradle of gold\u201d\"\/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">THE ARCHEOLOGICAL COMPLEX OF CHOQUEQUIRAO, WHICH MEANS \u201cCRADLE OF GOLD\u201d<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:100%\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.salkantaytrekking.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/09\/Choquequirao-Trek.jpg\" alt=\"Choquequirao Trek \"\/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">CHOQUEQUIRAO TREK<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-inca-quarry-trail\">Inca Quarry Trail<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>(Also called the Cachicata Trail or Chaski Trail)<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Typical Length:&nbsp;<\/strong>4 days<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Difficulty:&nbsp;<\/strong>Moderate<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>This trek has various names, but it\u2019s another of the top six alternative routes to <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.salkantaytrekking.com\/machu-picchu-tours\/\">Machu Picchu<\/a><\/strong> on National Geographic\u2019s list and a great option for avoiding crowds. It\u2019s unique in that hikers can visit lesser-known Inca archeological sites only seen by other hikers and locals, as well as visit the Cachicata quarry where the famous giant stones of Inca construction projects were collected. You\u2019ll start off visiting a tall waterfall and the <strong>Racaypata site<\/strong> perched atop it before continuing to traverse the mountains and valleys near Ollantaytambo.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>You\u2019ll enjoy interacting with locals who live in the area and observing Andean life up close. The most picturesque moment of your hike will be when you stand inside one of the Incas\u2019 Sun Gates: the perfect frame for the imposing ice-capped Mount Veronica before you. The <a href=\"https:\/\/www.salkantaytrekking.com\/trekking-in-peru\/inca-quarry-to-machu-picchu-trek-4-days\/\"><strong>Inca Quarry trek<\/strong><\/a> is an adventure that combines stunning landscapes, exploration of Inca ruins, and the opportunity to get to know the local culture.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-9d6595d7 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:100%\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.salkantaytrekking.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/09\/The-Cachicata-Trail-Sun-Gate-or-Inti-Punku.jpg\" alt=\"The Cachicata Trail-Sun Gate or Inti Punku\"\/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">THE CACHICATA TRAIL-SUN GATE OR INTI PUNKU<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:100%\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.salkantaytrekking.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/09\/Inca-Quarry-Trail.jpg\" alt=\"Inca Quarry Trail\"\/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">INCA QUARRY TRAIL<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">BONUS:<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-inca-jungle\">Inca Jungle<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Typical Length:&nbsp;<\/strong>4 days<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Difficulty:&nbsp;<\/strong>Moderate<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>This is an adrenaline-pumping adventure that gets you to Machu Picchu not only by trekking but also&nbsp;<strong>by biking, rafting,&nbsp;<\/strong>and<strong>&nbsp;ziplining<\/strong>&nbsp;through the cloud forests of the Andes! For a beautiful mixture of the adventure sports Cusco offers, grab a helmet and hang on for the expedition of a lifetime! To top it all off, you\u2019ll get to spend some time soaking in Cusco\u2019s best hot spring&nbsp;<strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.salkantaytrekking.com\/blog\/the-top-hot-springs-to-visit-when-in-cusco-and-how-to-get-there\/\">Cocalmayo<\/a><\/strong>&nbsp;in Santa Teresa. This trail will give you an&nbsp;<strong>intimate connection with Mother Nature<\/strong>, and you won\u2019t want it to end!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-9d6595d7 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:100%\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.salkantaytrekking.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/09\/Inca-Jungle-Trail.jpg\" alt=\"Inca Jungle Trail\"\/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">INCA JUNGLE TRAIL<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:100%\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.salkantaytrekking.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/09\/Inca-Jungle-Adventure.jpg\" alt=\"Inca Jungle Adventure\"\/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"><br>INCA JUNGLE ADVENTURE<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Take Your Pick!<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>No matter which of these unforgettable experiences you choose, it will be unbelievably breathtaking and exciting! There\u2019s no other feeling in the world that compares to relying on your own two feet to take you to a place like the magnificent citadel of Machu Picchu after crossing through sublime landscapes that most never lay eyes on. You will be so proud of yourself with every step you take on any of these amazing adventures, and the lasting impact of your encounter will stay with you for years to come!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-embed aligncenter is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio\"><div class=\"wp-block-embed__wrapper\">\n<iframe loading=\"lazy\" title=\"Alternative treks to Machu Picchu\" width=\"500\" height=\"281\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/f6Xsq_llT-c?feature=oembed\" frameborder=\"0\" allow=\"accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share\" referrerpolicy=\"strict-origin-when-cross-origin\" allowfullscreen><\/iframe>\n<\/div><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">You might be Interested:<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.salkantaytrekking.com\/blog\/salkantay-vs-inca-trail-which-best-trek-machu-picchu\/\">Salkantay Trek vs Inca Trail: Which is the Best Trek to Machu Picchu?<\/a><\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.salkantaytrekking.com\/blog\/treks-cusco-best-routes-do-peru\/\">Treks in Cusco: The Best Routes To Do in Peru<\/a><\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.salkantaytrekking.com\/blog\/new-year-in-machu-picchu\/\">New Year in Machu Picchu<\/a><\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list lang\">\n<li class=\"es\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.caminosalkantay.com\/blog\/las-mejores-caminatas-a-machu-picchu\/\">ES<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"pt\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.salkantaytrilha.com\/blog\/as-7-melhores-trilhas-para-machu-picchu\/\">PT<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Peru is a country connected by walking trails, probably none of which are new. Ancient history was played out along these ancestral paths, and modern man continues to use them to go about his daily business. Some were intentionally built [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":5071,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[7,1],"tags":[522,313,523,210,66,285],"class_list":["post-5033","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-machu-picchu","category-trek","tag-ancascocha-trek","tag-best-treks-in-peru","tag-choquequirao-trek","tag-lares-trek","tag-machu-picchu","tag-salkantay-trek"],"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO Premium plugin v27.3 (Yoast SEO v27.3) - https:\/\/yoast.com\/product\/yoast-seo-premium-wordpress\/ -->\n<title>The 7 Best Treks to Machu Picchu<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"Peru is a country connected by walking trails, probably none of which are new. 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