Adventure treks to Machu Picchu
For those craving adventure beyond the beaten path, there’s more than one epic way to reach the legendary Machu Picchu:
The 5-day Inca Trail kicks things up a notch with extra time to explore ancient ruins and soak in the wild beauty of the Andes. If you’re after jaw-dropping mountain views and a serious dose of high-altitude thrill, the Salkantay Trek is your rugged alternative, winding through glaciers, cloud forests, and remote wilderness. Short on time but still want that once-in-a-lifetime hike? The 2-day Inca Trail is a fast-track to the Sun Gate with all the magic packed in. And for a more off-the-grid experience, the Lares Trek delivers breathtaking scenery and rare cultural encounters in traditional Andean villages.
Discover more about each trek:
5D INCA TRAIL TO MACHU PICCHU
The 5-day Inca Trail is perfect for hikers who want a deeper, more relaxed journey along the classic route. This extended version allows extra time to visit incredible archaeological sites like Llactapata, Runkurakay, Sayacmarca, and Phuyupatamarca without feeling rushed. You'll cross iconic Inca stone paths, scale mountain passes, and camp in scenic highland spots—ending with a sunrise arrival at the Sun Gate. Rated moderate to challenging, it’s ideal for history lovers who want to soak in every step of the ancient trail. Check out the full itinerary here:
https://www.qnperu.com/5d-inca-trail
5D SALKANTAY TO MACHU PICCHU
For those who dream of towering peaks and remote landscapes, the Salkantay Trek is the ultimate high-altitude adventure. This challenging trail takes you around the majestic Salkantay Mountain, one of Peru’s highest, with an ascent to the 4,650-meter Salkantay Pass. You'll experience dramatic scenery—from snowcapped peaks and glacial lakes to cloud forests teeming with orchids and hummingbirds. The route finishes with a scenic walk or train ride into Aguas Calientes, making it a thrilling and diverse alternative for nature lovers and seasoned trekkers.
Check out the full itinerary here:
https://www.qnperu.com/salkantay-to-machu-picchu
2D INCA TRAIL EXPRESS
If time is short but adventure still calls, the 2-day Inca Trail offers the perfect blend of culture, scenery, and accomplishment. Starting at Kilometer 104 of the railway, this condensed trek climbs to the archaeological site of Wiñay Wayna before joining the final stretch of the classic trail. You’ll pass through lush forests, cross stone paths, and arrive at Machu Picchu through the iconic Sun Gate—all in just two days. With its moderate difficulty, it’s a great choice for travelers who want the magic of the trail without the full commitment. Check out the full itinerary here:
4D LARES VALLEY TREK TO MACHU PICCHU
For a more cultural and off-the-beaten-track experience, the Lares Trek is a beautiful and heartwarming journey through the high Andes. This moderate trek leads you through traditional Quechua villages where life has changed little over the centuries. Along the way, you’ll meet local weavers, see herds of alpacas, and walk past stunning lakes and high mountain passes. Though it doesn’t end at Machu Picchu itself, the trek concludes with a train ride to Aguas Calientes and a final day exploring the citadel—making it a perfect blend of nature, culture, and history.
Check out the full itinerary here:
Each of these routes offers a unique and exciting path to Machu Picchu, whether you're looking for history, high peaks, local culture, or all of the above.
Interested in any of these treks? Contact our sales representatives to help you plan the best experience for you!