You planned the trip. You picked your dates. Then… no permits left. During the high season this is one of the most common scenarios travelers face. The Inca Trail has strict daily limits, and permits often sell out months in advance. But here’s the key point:
Not getting a permit does NOT mean missing Machu Picchu, or even missing an incredible trekking experience.
In fact, some of the best and more immersive routes don’t require permits at all.
First: What Are Your Real Options?
If the Inca Trail is unavailable, these are the three strongest alternatives based on experience, scenery, and overall value:
- Choquequirao to Machu Picchu (7 days) → the most remote and challenging
- Lares Trek (3 days) → cultural, quieter, more flexible
- Salkantay Trek (4 days) → the most popular alternative, big landscapes
All three end at Machu Picchu. What changes is the journey.
Quick Comparison: Difficulty & Highlights
| Trek | Duration | Difficulty | Max Altitude | Key Highlights | Best For |
| Choquequirao → Machu Picchu | 7 days | Challenging / strenuous | 4,130–4,600 m | Two major Inca sites, deep canyons, remote trails | Experienced hikers, adventure-focused trips |
| Salkantay Trek | 4 days | Moderate to challenging | 4,600 m | Glacier views, jungle transitions, varied landscapes | First-time trekkers wanting scenery |
| Lares Trek | 3 days | Moderate | 4,400 m | Andean villages, cultural immersion, quieter routes | Travelers prioritizing culture over ruins |
Key takeaway:
- Want the closest thing to the Inca Trail experience? → Salkantay
- Want something more authentic and less crowded? → Lares
- Want a real expedition? → Choquequirao
Option 1: Choquequirao → Machu Picchu: The Hardcore Alternative
This is not a backup plan. It’s a full expedition.
- 7 days of hiking across the Apurímac canyon
- Steep ascents and descents (physically demanding)
- Visit Choquequirao, often called Machu Picchu’s “sister city”
- Far fewer hikers, extremely remote feel
This route is recommended only if you’re in strong shape. It’s described as “formidable” and suited for experienced trekkers
Why choose it:
You want something deeper, longer, and far less commercial.
Option 2: Salkantay Trek: Best Overall Alternative
This is the most balanced option.
- No permit restrictions
- High mountain pass (4,600 m)
- Huge variety: glaciers → cloud forest → jungle
- Ends at Machu Picchu
It’s widely considered a top alternative to the Inca Trail, with bigger landscapes and more flexibility
Why choose it:
You want scenery, challenge, and flexibility without needing months of planning.
Option 3: Lares Trek: Cultural & Quiet
Very different from the others.
- Focus on Andean communities and daily life
- Less emphasis on ruins, more on people and landscapes
- Quieter trails, fewer crowds
- Typically ends with a train to Machu Picchu
Travelers often highlight how isolated and authentic it feels compared to the Inca Trail
Why choose it:
You care more about culture than ticking off famous sites.
So… Did You Actually Lose Anything?
Not really. The Inca Trail is iconic because of:
- The Sun Gate entrance
- The original stone path
- The history
But the alternatives often offer:
- Bigger landscapes (Salkantay)
- More solitude (Lares)
- More adventure (Choquequirao)
Different experience. Not a worse one.
How to Decide
If you’re choosing last-minute, use this:
- Limited time + solid fitness → Salkantay
- Short trip + cultural focus → Lares
- Strong fitness + want something unique → Choquequirao
FAQS
Do all these alternatives still include Machu Picchu?
Yes. All routes end with a guided visit to Machu Picchu, usually entering via Aguas Calientes rather than the Sun Gate.
Which one is closest to the Inca Trail experience?
Salkantay is the closest in terms of multi-day hiking and scenic payoff, though it lacks the continuous Inca stone trail.
Is Choquequirao harder than the Inca Trail?
Yes, significantly. It includes long, steep descents and climbs and requires strong endurance.
Is Lares a “lesser” trek?
Not at all. It’s just different, more cultural, less focused on ruins, and much quieter.
Can I still try for last-minute Inca Trail permits?
Occasionally yes (cancellations), but it’s unreliable. It’s better to commit to an alternative early.
