Hiking to Machu Picchu

A guide is required if you want to backpack to Machu Picchu. There are several tour companies that offer this service with Porters that will carry your stuff, cooks that cook your meals on the trail, and they set up the tents at each location every night. There are a few different trails you can take to get to Machu Picchu. The most famous trail is the Inca Trail. Most people do the Inca Trail in 4 days, but it is also offered in 3 and 2 day treks. A 4-day trek ends in a sunrise view of the citadel from the Sun Gate. However, there are only so many people that can be on the Inca Trail daily and these spots do sell out. Other options include the Salkantay Trek, Lares Trek, and the Choquequirao Trek. 

1. Inca Trail:

• Description: The classic 4-day trek, following the ancient Inca path and offering stunning landscapes and ruins.

• Highlights: A journey through cloud forests, ancient ruins, and culminating in a sunrise view of Machu Picchu from the Sun Gate.

• Permits: Requires permits, which sell out quickly, so book well in advance.

• Difficulty: Moderate to strenuous, with steep ascents and descents.

• Duration: 4 days. 

2. Salkantay Trek:

• Description: A popular alternative to the Inca Trail, offering diverse landscapes from snow-capped mountains to the jungle.

• Highlights: A trek through the Andes and into the cloud forest, with a final descent to Machu Picchu.

• Permits: No permit limitations, making it a more accessible option than the Inca Trail.

• Difficulty: Moderate to strenuous.

• Duration: 4-5 days. 

3. Lares Trek:

• Description: A less crowded trek that traverses highland communities in the Lares Valley, offering a cultural experience.

• Highlights: Interaction with local villages, vibrant cultures, and abundant llamas and alpacas.

• Permits: No permit limitations.

• Difficulty: Moderate.

• Duration: 3-4 days. 

4. Choquequirao Trek:

• Description: A challenging trek to the Inca site of Choquequirao, followed by a descent to Machu Picchu.

• Highlights: A journey through the steep Apurimac Canyon, with views of the Apurimac River and the ruins of Choquequirao.

• Permits: Requires permits, which sell out quickly, so book well in advance.

• Difficulty: Strenuous.

• Duration: 5-6 days.