Her City View

Alpaca Expeditions, the 100% Indigenous-owned and operated Peruvian trekking operator, encourages travelers to look beyond the well-known Machu Picchu Inca Trail.

Alpaca Expeditions's curated trek collection routes are designed to foster a deep cultural connection with Peru, while committing to high standards of sustainability and environmental stewardship.

“Machu Picchu is only the beginning of Peru’s story. At Alpaca Expeditions, we invite travelers to discover the caminos menos conocidos — the less-known paths — where the true magic is found in the people, the culture, and the land. Our promise is to protect these treasures through sustainable travel, so that future generations can enjoy this authentic connection, just as we do today”, says Raul Ccolque, Alpaca Expeditions’ founder and president.

Unlocking Machu Picchu: Five Different Routes

Salkantay Trek

A High-Altitude Adventure for seasoned hikers. A breathtaking alpine route recognized globally as one of the top alternative treks to Machu Picchu.

The popular Women-Only Salkantay Trek ($995 USD per person), introduced in summer 2024, is a 6-night/7-day journey that empowers and unites women through unique shared experiences and deep connections with female guides, porters, chefs and like-minded fellow female travelers.

Another best-seller in that collection is the Ultimate Classic 5-night/5-day Salkantay Trek ($650 USD per person), for all hikers in good physical form to enjoy.

Lares Trek

Culture at a Slower Pace. A culturally rich journey through remote Quechua-speaking communities that offers an intimate connection to Peru’s living traditions and customs immersed in jaw-dropping natural beauty.

The 3-night/4-day Lares Trek to Machu Picchu Trek ($650 USD per person). The journey offers a rare look into the Andean culture. Trekkers visit family homes, soak in natural thermal baths, hike near gigantic waterfalls and salt mines to conclude at the sacred Inca ruins of Machu Picchu.

Choquequirao Trek

The Sister City of Machu Picchu. A more challenging route that offers a raw and majestic experience through an archaeological wonder still untouched by mass tourism.

The lesser-known 4-night/5-day Choquequirao Trek ($700 USD per person) a peaceful and immersive journey into the heart of Incan history.

Visitors can also opt for a 5-night/6-day Choquequirao and Machu Picchu Expedition Trek ($825 USD per person) which explores both iconic sites in one action-packed adventure.

Rainbow Mountain & Ausangate Region

A Surreal Escape. This is a geological marvels and an inspiring journey for those craving dramatic terrain and fewer crowds.

The 3-night/4-day Ausengate, Rainbow Mountain and Machu Picchu Trek ($750 USD per person) was created for travelers wanting both Rainbow Mountain and Machu Picchu in a single adventure.

This lesser-known trek offers magical views of the Ausangate Mountain, colorful lagoons, and wildlife viewing opportunities where alpacas, llamas and Andean condors can be seen in their natural habitat.

Huchuy Qosqo Trek

Hidden Inca Jewel of the Sacred Valley. A shorter but impactful adventure that is ideal for travelers with limited time to explore Cusco and the Andes.

The 2-night/3-day Huchuy Qosqo Tour ($630 USD per person) reveals one of the Sacred Valley's best-kept secrets. Called the “Little Cusco”, this hidden Inca jewel offers a short but well-rounded Andes trekking and camping experience, full of history, spectacular nature, and rich cultural connections.

*Prices are based on shared occupancy and exclude airfare, gear rental, and tips.

Alpaca Expeditions Season FYI

Alpaca Expeditions encourages travelers to plan a trekking journey ahead and choose the trek and the season wisely. Machu Picchu entrance tickets and Inca Trail permits must be booked in advance through Alpaca Expeditions, as availability is limited and can sell out six months ahead.

The high season is from May to mid-October and the shoulder from April to late October when there are fewer crowds, lush scenery, and lower airfare.

The slow season is from November to February when trekkers can opt for weather-friendly options like the Lares Trek or a train journey to Machu Picchu.

Important to know that in February the Inca Trail is closed for annual maintenance, but Machu Picchu remains open year-round.

Learn more, visit - www.alpacaexpeditions.com/alternative-treks-to-machu-picchu/