Machu Picchu Hiking Tours 2025!
Explore the best Machu Picchu hiking tours, including the iconic Salkantay Trek, the Lares Trek, and more. Fewer crowds, and each hike is tailored to your preference—whether challenging, cultural, or adventurous. At Marfes, we have the perfect way for you to get to Machu Picchu. Choose the best one!
Why Choose our Machu Picchu Hiking Tours?
There are many Machu Picchu hiking tours aside from the world-famous Inca Trail. They are more than just a scenic hike, but unforgettable journeys that will take you through the heart of the Andes, whatever your preference. Ready for a challenging hike filled with spectacular views of mountains and glaciers? The Salkantay Trek is for you. If you enjoy more cultural and experiential experiences and are ready to learn a lot about Inca culture and history, Lares Trek has the best.
If you’re ready for an adventure that will lift your heart and spirits to the heavens, Inca Jungle is your best option. It combines rafting, biking, and hiking, all in a single trek that ends at Machu Picchu. If you want to experience something different, why not try the “Machu Picchu’s twin sister,” the Choquequirao Trek, a highly underrated destination for those who want to explore a citadel much larger than Machu Picchu itself. What are you waiting for?.
At Marfes Tours Peru, we specialize in hiking experiences tailored to every type of traveler. Our carefully designed routes combine the best of every type of trek you’re looking for. From casual hikers to experienced hikers.
Sustanible Tourism
We firmly believe in eco-friendly practices, protecting our Peruvian cultural heritage while providing responsible and sustainable travel.
Fantastic Food
Peruvian cuisine is known throughout the world. Enjoy your trip with authentic and delicious local cuisine.
Expert Guides
Our local, certified guides will lead you through the wonders our country holds, offering you information about the Incas and the hidden gems of the Andes.
Confort and Safety
Ensure a peaceful trip with us. Your comfort and safety are our priority. We offer first-class accommodations, transportation, and 24/7 insurance.
Salkantay trek to Machu picchu
The Salkantay trek to Machu Picchu is the best alternative to the Classic Inca Trail. Adventure, snow-capped peaks, and breathtaking mountains with the best views are just some of the things to look forward to on the trek to Machu Picchu. Perfect if you’re looking for something more adventurous, experience friendly local villages, beautiful views ranging from turquoise to verdant, cloud forests, and the grand finale at the Wonder of the World.
Salkantay trek 5 days -
Best seller
The Salkantay trek to Machu Picchu is the best alternative to the Classic Inca Trail. Adventure, snow-capped peaks, and breathtaking mountains with the best views are just some of the things to look forward to on the trek to Machu Picchu. Perfect if you’re looking for something more adventurous, experience friendly local villages, beautiful views ranging from turquoise to verdant, cloud forests, and the grand finale at the Wonder of the World.
Moderate to Challenging
2 - 12
Trekking, Adventure, Historic
Camping and Hotel
USD 700
per person
1 Day
What You'll Experience on Salkantay trek
Every day on the Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu offers a gem for your photos, breathtaking views, new landscapes, and cultural immersion. Discover Humantay Lake, the Salkantay Pass, and much more. See the beauty you’ll experience on this once-in-a-lifetime trek, challenging you with beauty and connection.
Humantay lake
Salkantay pass
Lucmabamba
Hidroelectrica
Machu Picchu
Lares Trek
Lares Treks is a perfect hike if you want a more culturally rich and less crowded experience. The modern city has yet to reach the towns you visit, so you’ll be able to experience Andean communities as they were in ancient times. Learn about the customs and traditions of the Andean people and immerse yourself in as much culture as possible. You’ll see typical animals of the area, learn the Quechua language, and experience agriculture and weaving.
Lares Trek 4 days
Best Cultural hike
The Lares trek to Machu Picchu is an incredible adventure, full of cultural immersion and time to connect with nature. Here, you’ll begin your adventure at the Lares Hot Springs, where you can enjoy hot baths with healing waters before beginning your hike. Camp in ancient villages and learn about their customs and lifestyles throughout the day.
You’ll also visit beautiful archaeological sites like the 7 Quishuarani waterfalls. Explore the area’s animals, where you’ll see llamas and alpacas, and also villages like the Ollantaytambo fortress. On your last day, you’ll arrive at Machu Picchu and enjoy your two-hour guided tour early to enjoy it without crowds. If you’re looking for something cultural, this is the perfect option for you!
Moderate to Challenging
2 - 12
Hiking, Cultural
Camping and Hotel
USD 550
per person
4 Days / 3 Night
What You'll Experience on Lares Trek
The Lares Trek offers a perfect blend of cultural immersion and scenic beauty. From picturesque Andean villages to lush valleys and ancient ruins, this hike gives you a unique chance to connect with the heart of Peru. Below are some of the unforgettable highlights you’ll experience along this trail.
Hot Springs
Pachachutec pass
Ollantaytambo
Machu Picchu
Choquequirao trek
Known as the “Sister City of Machu Picchu,” it is a hidden and underrated gem of Peru. Away from all the crowds, it is one of the most rewarding experiences in Peru. This trek offers a deep connection with nature and a unique, uncrowded experience. Discover its impressive terraces, ancient Inca history, and spectacular views.
The hike is demanding, but reaching Choquequirao is incredible; the connection with nature makes it worthwhile. Feel how the Incas felt in their time; this trek is much less empty and offers a unique experience. Few people know it, but this city is three times larger than Machu Picchu!
Classic choquequirao trek peru 5 days
Experience the classic Choquequirao Trek Peru for 5 days. This trek will take you through panoramic views of the valleys, stunning Andean trails, and ancient Inca paths. You will discover one of the last hidden gems of the Inca Empire, the twin sister of Machu Picchu, which is three times larger.
This trip will take you from Cusco to the Apurimac Canyon, passing through incredible cloud forests to reach Choquequirao. It is often considered as impressive as Machu Picchu, but with only a fraction of the visitors. Perfect for hikers who want to experience something out of the ordinary and one of the most unforgettable experiences in Peru.
Moderate to Challenging
2 - 12
Trekking, Cultural
Camping and Hotel
US$ 600
per person
5 Days / 4 Night
What You'll See on the Choquequirao Trek
The Choquequirao Trek is not just any hike; it’s a journey back in time along Inca trails. Each day of trekking reveals something new about Inca heritage and Andean culture. Pure beauty and one of Peru’s rarely visited cities are what this trip offers. Check out the best places to visit here!
Capuliyoc
Marampata
Choquequirao
Conoc Hot Springs
Inca Jungle Trek
What are you waiting for to experience an adventure that combines multiple activities and adventure sports? If you enjoy getting your adrenaline pumping while also experiencing spectacular landscapes with an epic finish at Machu Picchu, the Inca Jungle Trek is for you. This 4-day adventure combines adrenaline with natural beauty. Enjoy biking, rafting, and hiking all in one tour, all before reaching the iconic citadel, one of the 7 Wonders of the World! Book now with Marfes!.
Inca Jungle Trek 4 days
The Inca Jungle Trek is the most adventurous way to reach Machu Picchu. We’ll begin with a mountain bike descent into the Andes through the Maras and Salineras valleys. Then, we’ll descend the Vilcanota rivers, where you can do optional rafting.
Along the way, you’ll enjoy the Cocalmayo hot springs, a true jungle experience teeming with birds and fruit. Your final reward will be the entrance to Machu Picchu at sunrise. What an exciting trip! This adventure is calling for you! What are you waiting for? Hiking and trekking all in one tour, all before reaching the iconic citadel, one of the 7 Wonders of the World!
Moderate to Challenging
2 - 12
Hiking, Biking, Rafting
Camping and Hotel
US$ 490
per person
4 Days / 3 Night
What You'll See on the Choquequirao Trek
Each day at the Inca Jungle Trek offers a day with more adrenaline than the last, a unique experience, cultural encounters, and breathtaking landscapes, from biking to hiking through the Peruvian jungle and thermal baths. This is what you’ll enjoy during this unforgettable trip to Machu Picchu.
biking
Rafting
Aguas Calientes
Machu Picchu
Your Essential Machu Picchu hiking tours Guide
If you’re planning to take one of our Machu Picchu hiking tours, this quick guide explains everything you need to know, from the weather to the best time to hike and what to expect on this trek. Our expert team is ready to answer any questions you may have.
Machu Picchu Hiking tours Weater by Months
Whether you’re planning to do the Salkantay Trek, the Choquequirao Trek, the cultural Lares Trek, or the adventurous Inca Jungle Trek, understanding the weather is essential to planning a good trip and ensuring an unforgettable experience. The weather in the Andes and the Peruvian jungle is often unpredictable, but every season offers something unique, whether you travel during the dry or rainy season. Below, we’ll provide a guide to the weather for Machu Picchu Hiking Tours.
November - December: Start of the Rainy Season
During these months, the rainy season begins for all Machu Picchu hiking tours. On the Salkantay Trek, Choquequirao Trek, and Inca Jungle Trail, occasional rain showers and cloudy skies are expected, especially at the end of the day or midday. The trails are still passable, but a rain jacket is now required. Despite the rain, the weather remains mild, averaging around 60°F, but cooler at night.
Juanary - February: Peak Rainy Season
These months tend to be the wettest of the year, with a chance of daily rainfall, especially on the hiking trails. Choquequirao and the Inca Jungle Trail can become slightly more slippery, requiring caution. The Inca Trail is closed in February. However, this is the quietest tourist season, perfect for those looking for fewer crowds and good deals. Temperatures average 62°F.
March - April: Transition to Dry Season
It still rains in March, but the frequency decreases as April approaches. These months bring beautiful vegetation and slightly clearer skies, especially on the Salkantay and Choquequirao treks. The Inca Trail is already open during this month, making the hike a little easier. In April, the weather improves, becoming much more pleasant, and the dry season begins at 64°F. Rain gear should still be brought along in March just in case, but the sun is more common.
May - June: Start of the Dry Season
Welcome to the dry season! May and June offer ideal conditions for Machu Picchu hiking tours: sunny skies, very little rain, and incredible views. This is one of the best times to hike the Inca Trail, Salkantay Trek, and all treks in general. However, nights tend to be cold, especially when camping, and low temperatures average 41°F. Make your reservations in advance, as this is peak season.
July - August: Peak Dry Season
We’re still in the dry season, with consistently dry weather and clearer blue skies on all trails. Hiking is more comfortable, with nighttime temperatures often very cold, reaching as low as 32°F. It’s still warm in Inca Jungle, but Choquequirao and Salaktnay require layering at night. There’s also more activity.
September - October: End of the Dry Season
These months are a hidden gem for those who want to take Machu Picchu hiking tours. The dry season persists, offering warm days and excellent trail conditions for all hikes. At the end of October, the skies begin to cloud over more frequently. It’s a transitional season, so it’s not usually crowded and perfect for traveling. The average temperature is usually around 66°F, and there are few crowds.
Machu Picchu Hiking tours Packing List
It’s essential to bring only the essentials, but only what’s necessary. Here’s a quick list of what you should bring for your Machu Picchu trek. Whichever trek you choose—Salkantay, Choquequirao, or the Inca Jungle Trail—we’ll show you more essential items we recommend for a safe and comfortable experience. You can also check out our full blog.
Essentials
- Hiking boots: Not too tight or too tight, just right.
- Light backpack (30L to 40L)
- Reusable water bottle: 2 liters
- Passport: You will need this for entry
- Personal Medication: pills
Personal Health: toothbrush, shampoo, feminine accessories, soap, wet wipes, towels, etc.
Clothes by Layer
- Waterproof jacket
- Hiking pants
- Long-sleeved shirt
- Change of underwear for every day
- 4 or 5 hiking socks
- Hat and bandana
- Light jacket
Extras
- High SPF sunscreen
- UV protection sunglasses
- Lip balm with SPF
- Wet wipes
- Disinfectants
- Trekking poles (if not renting from us)
- Small snacks
- Cash: For Tipping and small shops.
What to Excpect in your Machu Picchu Hiking tours
- End your trip with a guided tour of Machu Picchu, one of the seven wonders of the world, which you can visit on one of your Machu Picchu Hiking tours.
- Discover lesser-known Inca sites like Choquequirao, known as the “Sister of Machu Picchu,” with fewer crowds and equally impressive views.
- We offer a variety of Machu Picchu hiking tours, whether you want to take the adventurous Salkantay Trek, the cultural Lares Trek, or experience an adrenaline rush on the Inca Jungle Trail. Find the trek that suits your travel style.
- Connect with the Quechua community, with the flora and fauna of Peru, learn about customs and traditions, and enjoy authentic Peruvian cuisine during your hikes.
Machu Picchu Hiking tours Tips and Recommendations
Have you already booked one of our Machu Picchu hiking tours? Make the most of your adventure with the best recommendations you need to know before embarking on any hike, whether it’s the Salkantay Trek, the Inca Jungle Trek, the Choquequirao Trek, or the great Lares Trek. This list is based on our experience and the most common questions our hikers have.
- Book your trek in advance. Although some routes, such as the Lares Trek or the Choquequirao Trek, tend to be less crowded, it’s always best to book in advance so you can gather information and prepare for your trip. The Salkantay Trek or Inca Jungle treks tend to fill up much more quickly, especially during peak season, so booking in advance guarantees the availability of permits, guides, and tickets to Machu Picchu.
- Once on the trail, your adventure has begun. Be sure to check your hiking gear, including warm, layered, or waterproof clothing, toiletries, and sunscreen. Observe the weight limits and recommendations; remember that porters carry luggage that you won’t be able to access until the end of the day.
- Depending on your availability, you should choose the perfect season for you. It’s important to be informed about this. The dry season runs from May to October, with perfect sunshine for trekking, but cold nights and high demand. During the rainy season, from November to April, the days are warmer, there are fewer tourists, and the rains tend to be constant.
- Some agencies require travel insurance for your Machu Picchu hiking tour adventure. It covers medical emergencies and incidents that occur at altitude. Don’t take any risks; find out more about it.
- Although we provide water and some snacks during the hike, remember to bring some extras, such as energy bars and chocolates, to give you energy. Hydration is key; bring a reusable water bottle; we provide water for you throughout the trek.
- Prepare for altitude. In Cusco, we’re usually at 11,150 feet, and most hikes climb higher during its highest peak. Spend two or three days acclimatizing in Cusco and follow the specific recommendations during these days. Drink coca tea, eat light meals, avoid alcohol, and do some gentle walks or light exercise. Talk to a specialist if you want to bring altitude sickness pills.
- Consider tipping your crew. Guides and porters go the extra mile to make your experience as amazing and comfortable as possible. Tips are not mandatory, but are greatly appreciated.
FAQ's About Machu Picchu Hiking Tours
When planning to book one of our Machu Picchu hiking tours, many questions arise. Each trek is unique, whether you’re taking the Salkantay Trek, the cultural Lares Trek, or the adventurous Inca Jungle Trail. You should have many questions to make your trip as perfect and unforgettable as possible. In this section, we’ve compiled the most frequently asked questions our travelers ask when taking one of our hiking tours.
What is the altitude of Salkantay trek?
The Salkantay trek reaches a maximum altitude of 4,630 meters (15,190 feet) at the Salakntay Pass, also known as the “Salkantay Pass.” This is one of the highest points on the Machu Picchu trekking tours. The high elevation can cause altitude sickness, so it is essential to acclimatize in Cusco for 2-3 days and follow the recommendations before starting the trek.
How difficult is the Salkantay trek?
The Salkantay Trek is already considered moderate to challenging, primarily due to the high altitude and long distances. Expect to walk for 6 to 8 hours. With proper preparation and consistent pace, this is a more than achievable goal for most travelers. Don’t worry too much; many people have successfully completed this trek!
How long is Salkantay Trek?
The Classic Salkantay trek to Machu Picchu lasts 5 days and 4 nights. The entire hike covers a distance of approximately 72 kilometers (45 miles). Shorter and longer versions are available, but the most common is 5 days, including the final visit to Machu Picchu.
How much does the Salkantay trek cost?
The price of the Salkantay trek with Marfes Tours Peru is $550. This includes everything you need for the trek (camping, lodge, tickets to Machu Picchu, meals, and certified expert guides). Please note that this price is for a group hike.
What is the difference between Machu Picchu Hiking Tours and the Inca Trail hike?
The main difference with the Inca Trail hike is the permits. Currently, there are 500 permits allowed per day to enter the Inca Trail. Machu Picchu hiking tours, on the other hand, do not require permits. The only thing that must be reserved in advance is the entrance to Machu Picchu, which is where each trek ends. On the Salkantay Trek, the Choquequirao Trek, or the other, you will see hikers doing it alone or in small groups.
However, the Inca Trail requires a certified local operator to enter. On the Classic Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, you can enter the citadel through the Sun Gate. It is the only hike that allows this, entering Machu Picchu in a different way. On each trek, you will encounter landscapes along the way and will end at Machu Picchu.
What is the advantage of booking a Machu Picchu hiking tour instead of the Inca Trail?
It all depends on what you want to experience, your preferences. Choosing an alternative hike to the Inca Trail gives you a little more freedom; you don’t have permit restrictions, there are fewer tourists, and the attractions are more varied. You’ll also have the opportunity to experience more cultural experiences by visiting remote communities and meeting local people, which you can experience best on a hike like Lares.
Is the Salkantay trek worth it?
Of course, the Salkantay Trek is the second most popular hike besides the Inca Trail because of how incredible it is. You’ll see magnificent snow-capped mountains, beautiful turquoise lakes, and cloud forests. It’s more challenging than the Classic Inca Trail due to the distance traveled per day, but all the sites you visit make it worth it. Book your hike now!
What makes Lares Trek such a cultural hike?
Lares Trek offers more than just a hike; it’s a cultural immersion experience, allowing you to experience the Inca culture as it once was. This is because we’ll visit several communities like Quiswarani, where people in these small villages, even without technology, live as they did in Cusco. You’ll see their customs, traditions, and the way they live their daily lives. You’ll learn about their local animals, including llamas and alpacas, their agriculture, and the way they weave. This trip will connect you deeply with the history of our ancestors and the local people; it will be more than just seeing places.
What makes Choquequirao trek so special?
The Choquequirao archaeological site is known as “Machu Picchu’s twin sister.” A fact that few people know is that it’s three times the size of the world wonder. The hike is usually longer and more challenging, but we assure you it’s worth it; you’ll be greatly rewarded. It’s perfect for hikers who want to visit undiscovered ruins and enjoy a unique experience. What are you waiting for? Book now!
How much adventure is there on the Inca Jungle trek?
The Inca Jungle Trek is a combination of epic adventure, incredible lodges, and an exciting finale at Machu Picchu. Perfect for those seeking a combination of adventure and thrills. First, you’ll bike downhill from Cruzpata. You can also optionally experience river rafting. Finally, a grand trek to Aguas Calientes. It combines various exciting adventures that are sure to get your adrenaline pumping.
Find Your Perfect Destination
Didn’t find the perfect Machu Picchu hiking tours? Don’t worry, we have incredible tours for all types of travelers, whether you’re an adventurer, a culture vulture, or just want to explore more of Peru. Check out these alternatives, all with excellent reviews, within our categories.
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