There is no doubt that the Inca Trail is one of the largest excursions in the world. The four or five-day trek, which zigzags through the snow-covered Andes Mountains, the lush Amazon jungle and a host of other beautiful lands, culminates with the ultimate reward: a majestic view of Short Inca trail to Machu Picchu 2 days. And after a few enthralling days of sweating along the path, there is no greater feeling than watching the dramatic complex of ruins and its surrounding peaks as the fog rises. That being said, only 500 people are lucky enough to turn on the trail every day. For the rest of us who are tied up for days off and money or simply procrastinators (you have to book fast-selling tickets months in advance), we saw a handful of equally epic alternatives to the sacred Inca site. From a spectacular view to a wild fauna that leaves you speechless, each one of them makes the extra mile.
1. Salkantay
The Salkantay Trek could only be the most popular substitute of the classic, and with good reason. Just like the Inca Trail, this five-day journey to Machu Picchuit also concerns diversity. During the epic journey, hikers will cross the Mollepata valley and cross the snow-capped peaks, thermal springs, tropical jungles, ruins and, of course, the 20,500-foot namesake, Mount Salkantay. But the spectacular Andean views are not easy. Although mules are present along the way to help weary travelers drag their belongings along, the arduous hike reaches a height of over 15,000 feet at times. To put things in perspective, the Inca Trail never exceeds 13,800 feet. Talk about taking things to new levels – literally.
2. Lares
Think of this picturesque trek from three to five days as a natural elliptical. And while you could burst into abundant sweat, the evocative scenery is worth it. Usually starting from the small town of Lares Trek 4 days, hikers can expect to cross remote villages full of farmers and artisans and come face to face with various hot springs, river valleys and breathtaking peaks, including the 19,000-foot Mount called Monte Veronica. Keep an eye on a range of animals (llamas, alpacas and chinchillas, to name just a few). Regardless of your taste, the whole experience will surely arouse great envy among your friends and Instagram followers at home.
3. Choquequirao
Choquequirao translates into a “golden cradle” and it won’t take long after you’ve started trekking to feel like you’ve hit the jackpot. Nicknamed the little sister of Machu Picchu, this street is certainly the quietest (read: less touristy) of the two brothers. During the arduous journey up and down, hikers will travel through an astonishing mix of old villages, verdant slopes, swooping gorges, imposing mountains and more before landing in Choquequirao, the ancient lost ruins that stretch over 10,000 feet high. Those who have the time on their side can continue the journey to conquer even Machu Picchu.
4. Ausangate
It is more likely to come across a llama and alpaca herd than other backpackers on this excursion. Less crowded, but equally astonishing, this trail takes travelers through the Cordillera Vilcanota mountain range, which boasts high altitude peaks, low valleys and Peruvian villages with locals dressed in bright colors. Lakes fed by glaciers, thermal springs and magnificent condors are also among the characteristics of passage to ooh and ahh, but the main attraction is the sacred Ausangate Trek to Rainbow Mountains of 20,900 feet. The journey can be combined with a trip to Machu Picchu. And don’t worry if your legs get tired – the horses come for the ride to give you and your belongings a lift.
5. Vilcabamba
From the moment you take this steep hike, solitude and serenity dominate everyone. Whether you are sailing on a rocky mountain range, crossing rivers and valleys, cutting through ruins and tropical jungles, or traveling along well-preserved Inca trails, you will feel very distant from the rest of the world. And this slice of peace comes with a great help for history. In fact, Vilcabamba is what the American explorer Hiram Bingham was looking for when he stumbled upon Machu Picchu. But don’t worry: you’ll also see the famous tourist destination. The entire trek is crowned by a short walk or a train journey to the wonderful wonder of the world.
Andean Path Travel Agency 