Machu Picchu, the jewel of the Inca Empire and one of the Seven Wonders of the Modern World, is the dream destination of many adventurers. But before you marvel at its terraces and temples, there’s a crucial decision to make: What’s the best route to get to Machu Picchu? The two most popular options to arrive on foot are the Inca Trail and the Salkantay route.

Both offer breathtaking landscapes, unique cultural experiences, and an unforgettable trip, but they differ in difficulty, access, type of experience, and more. Here, we take an in-depth look at both paths to help you decide which one best suits your adventure style.

Scenic stone path on the Inca Trail overlooking green mountains and clouds.
Hikers walking on a mountain trail with the snowy Salkantay peak in the background.

The Inca Trail: Living History Beneath Your Feet

The Inca Trail is the most iconic and traditional route to reach Machu Picchu. This ancient trail was part of a vast network of roads in the Tahuantinsuyo that connected different regions of the Inca empire.

Distance and duration

  • Length: Approximately 43 km.
  • Duration: 4 days and 3 nights.
  • Maximum height: 4,215 m (13,828 ft) at the Abra Warmiwañusca (“Dead Woman’s Passage”).

Characteristics of the route

  • It passes through impressive archaeological sites such as Runkurakay, Sayacmarca, Phuyupatamarca,  and Wiñay Wayna.
  • It culminates in the arrival at Machu Picchu through the Sun Gate (Inti Punku) at dawn: a magical moment.
Group of hikers posing in front of the Wiñay Huayna Inca ruins and terraces.
View of the Andean mountains and valleys from the Inti Punku or Sun Gate.
Two hikers sitting and looking at the Machu Picchu ruins with their arms raised.

Difficulty Level

Moderate to demanding, due to steep climbs and altitude. It requires basic physical preparation.

Limitations

  • Travel allowed only with an authorized agency.
  • Daily entrance quotas limited to 500 people (including guides and porters).
  • Sells out 3 to 6 months in advance, especially in high season (May-September).

Salkantay Route: The Alternative and Wild Adventure

The Salkantay Trek is the favorite alternative for those looking for a road less traveled, more challenging and with diverse landscapes ranging from snow-capped peaks to tropical jungles.

Hikers walking on a mountain trail with the snowy Salkantay peak in the background.
Two male hikers with backpacks posing on a rocky trail in the Salkantay mountains.
A hiker with trekking poles pointing towards the snowy Salkantay mountain.

Distance and duration

  • Length: 70 – 74 km (depending on the variant).
  • Duration: 5 days and 4 nights (4-day versions are also available).
  • Maximum height: 4,650 m (15,255 ft) at the Salkantay Pass.

Characteristics of the route

  • Start in Mollepata, pass through the imposing Nevado Salkantay, and then descend towards the high jungle in Santa Teresa.
  • Visits to the Humantay Lagoon, natural thermal baths and coffee plantations.

Difficulty Level

More physically demanding than the Inca Trail, especially because of the altitude and the long days of hiking.

Panoramic view of the majestic snow-capped Salkantay mountain under a blue sky.
Landscape of the Andes mountains with clouds covering the snowy peaks.

Advantages

  • It does not require advance permits like the Inca Trail.
  • Fewer tourists, more authentic and adventurous experience.
  • Optional: you can add zip lining, biking or thermal baths.

When to do these routes?

Dry season (April to October):

Ideal for both routes. Less rain, better visibility.

Rainy season (November to March):

Risk of landslides. The Inca Trail closes in February for maintenance.

Which one is best for you?

  • Do you love Inca history and culture? → Inca Trail
  • Do you like adventure, extreme nature and avoiding crowds? → Salkantay
  • Short on time or looking for an iconic experience? → Inca Trail
  • Do you want to improvise or not find places for the Inca Trail? → Salkantay

Conclusion: There is no wrong way to Machu Picchu

Both routes are spectacular and will take you to the same sacred destination. The Inca Trail is more spiritual and historical, while the Salkantay Trek is a scenic and wild trek. Whatever your choice, you will arrive with your soul full of landscapes and your heart vibrating with the ancestral energy of the Inca Empire.