Peru is known for having some of the most memorable landscapes, ancient sites, and hiking routes in South America.
At Atelier, we love to introduce you to the lesser-known experiences that take you off the beaten path and into the hidden corners of the countries you visit.
Here, we explore some of the most exciting and unique alternatives to the Classic Inca Trail.
The Classic Inca Trail is, of course, the most famous trek in Peru — perhaps in all of South America. And rightly so. You walk through the Sacred Valley along the banks of the Urubamba River, venture into native forest, ascend high mountain passes, and ultimately arrive at the Sun Gate and Machu Picchu itself. It’s a truly iconic travel experience.
Yet, there is so much more to explore in Peru.
Choquequirao is one of the most remote Inca sites in the Andes and offers an incredible off-the-beaten-path trekking experience in Peru. It lies in the Apurimac River Valley of the Willkapampa Mountains, about 60 miles from Cusco.
Excavations at Choquequirao only began in the 1970s and are still ongoing today. This awe-inspiring Inca site is believed to have been one of the last refuges of the Inca people and can only be reached by hiking from the town of Cachora. Some say Choquequirao offers just as much wonder and mystery as the mighty Machu Picchu — and we’d have to agree!
A trek to Choquequirao can take anywhere from 4 to 9 days, depending on the route you choose. You’ll traverse remote mountain paths, thick forests, and rolling hillsides.
The Choquequirao Trek is undoubtedly one of Peru’s greatest adventures — one that feels like stepping back in time.
The landscapes alone set the Ausangate Trek apart as one of Peru’s best-kept travel secrets. Picture multi-colored rock formations, glacial lakes, barren mountains, and more as you hike up to altitudes of 5,000 meters above sea level during six spectacular days.
Along this largely deserted route, you’ll move from flat plains to thermal springs, trek in the shadow of the Vilcanota Mountains, and reach the rainbow-hued slopes of Ausangate Mountain — a true natural wonder of Peru.
This land was once sacred to the Inca, and it’s easy to understand why for anyone lucky enough to experience the magic of the Ausangate Trek.
No matter where you choose to go — regardless of your fitness level or interests — this is just a glimpse of some unforgettable alternatives to the Inca Trail, perfect for those looking to escape the crowds and discover something truly unique.
There’s a lot to love about the Salkantay Trail to the Lost City. This Sacred Valley trek not only takes you along a meandering, lesser-traveled route to Machu Picchu, but it also gives you the chance to stay in some truly wonderful mountain lodges along the way.
Begin with a scenic hike to Salkantay Lodge, beautifully nestled beneath the imposing peaks of the Sacred Valley. It’s the perfect atmospheric starting point — the lodge itself adorned with traditional Peruvian textiles and décor, exposed beams, and stonework.
From there, the Salkantay Trail leads you past the stunning Lake Humantay and up to the Salkantay Pass, where the trek becomes a bit more challenging. But every effort is well rewarded with breathtaking views and magical landscapes — from coffee plantations to cloud forests, and the comfort of boutique lodges awaiting you at the end of each day.
This is a seven-day route, culminating at Machu Picchu — the ultimate finale to a truly unique Peruvian adventure.
Another excellent alternative trail to Machu Picchu is the Lares Trek, with several route options depending on your fitness level and the time you have available. Whichever path you choose, you can expect blissful days of scenic trekking through the Sacred Valley on a 3- or 4-day itinerary.
Along the way, you might visit traditional weaving communities, conquer high mountain passes like Ipsaycocha and Huilquijasa, or walk along the serene shores of Ipsaycocha Lake.
What makes the Lares Trek stand out is its tranquility — with fewer tourists and wide, open landscapes, it offers a genuine sense of solitude and connection with nature, making it a strong and peaceful alternative to the Classic Inca Trail.
Staying within the Sacred Valley, those looking to challenge themselves with a more demanding route to The Lost City will find the Vilcabamba Trek to be the perfect fit.
Crossing a section of the original, ancient Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, this strenuous hike leads you to lesser-known archaeological sites, breathtaking viewpoints, and remote mountain passes over the course of five unforgettable days. Starting from Ollantaytambo, you’ll kick things off with a vigorous day of hiking to the ruins of Rosaspata or Vitcos and Ñusta Hispana, reaching the Asuntina Pass at nearly 4,000 meters above sea level.
From there, you’ll tackle undulating and sometimes difficult terrain, traverse exposed ridgelines, and pass through small Andean villages — offering a truly authentic Peruvian experience. The journey ends in Aguas Calientes, with a well-earned visit to Machu Picchu itself.
Speak to the Peru travel specialists at info@atelier.travel — they’ll craft your dream tailor-made tour.
Toll free: +51 947 831 198
Email: info@atelier.travel