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Alternative Treks

Lares, Ancascocha, Choquequirao, Ausangate and Rainbow Mountain

Alternative Treks

Quiet trails, weaving communities, remote Inca sites and glacier lakes: our alternative treks are for travelers who want the Andes without the crowds — and they do not need Inca Trail permits.

  • Tours12
  • Duration1–8 days
  • FromUS$130
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Alternative Treks: all our tours

The best alternative treks around Cusco

  • Lares: the cultural trek — weaving villages, hot springs and lakes, then Machu Picchu.
  • Ancascocha: remote high passes that connect with the Inca Trail at Km 82.
  • Choquequirao: the remote "sister" of Machu Picchu above the Apurímac canyon.
  • Ausangate & Rainbow Mountain: glaciers, turquoise lagoons and Vinicunca's colored slopes.
  • Cachicata & Sacred Valley hikes: Inca quarries and trails above Ollantaytambo.

Difficulty

Routes range from moderate (Lares, Cachicata) to demanding (Choquequirao, Ausangate). Each tour page shows the maximum altitude and difficulty so you can choose with confidence.

Why choose an alternative trek?

More flexibility to book, smaller groups, direct contact with Andean communities and landscapes most visitors never see.

FAQs

Frequently asked questions about Alternative Treks

Which alternative trek is the easiest?

Lares and the Cachicata quarry trek are the most accessible multi-day routes; for a single day, Humantay Lake.

Do alternative treks end at Machu Picchu?

Lares, Ancascocha, Cachicata and the 8-day Choquequirao route include Machu Picchu; Ausangate and the 5-day Choquequirao do not.

Do I need permits?

No Inca Trail permit is needed. Entrance fees to archaeological sites and community areas are included.

What equipment do I need?

Broken-in hiking boots, warm layers, rain gear and a sleeping bag suitable for cold nights (rentals available in Cusco).

Choose your adventure

Other ways to explore Peru

Peru Tour Packages10 tours · From US$520 Machu Picchu Tours18 tours · From US$360 Salkantay Trek4 tours · From US$130 Inca Trail to Machu Picchu5 tours · From US$560 Day Tours from Cusco6 tours · From US$70

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