The Mt Machu Picchu hike is the fastest way to summit and observe the entire Inca citadel from a completely different vantage point, allowing you to capture stunning 360° panoramic pictures. This shorter trail is designed specifically for travelers looking to experience Machu Picchu from a unique perspective.
Is it worth climbing Mount Machu Picchu? Absolutely. Reaching the summit allows you to spend a full day admiring the landscape and capturing postcard-perfect panoramic shots.
When I first got to Machu Picchu a years back, I made the mistake most people make: I thought just entering the archaeological site was enough. It wasn’t. The truth is there’s a brutal difference between being at Machu Picchu and seeing it from above.
However, planning ahead is crucial. To hike this trail, you must book the Machu Picchu Ticket Circuit 1 + Machu Picchu Mountain. The entry fee is $80 USD per person, and permits are strictly limited to just 400 tickets per day, so they sell out months in advance.
Alternative Machu Picchu Hikes: Finding Your Route
As a professional tour guide, I often get asked: Are there other hikes to Machu Picchu? The answer is yes—there are plenty of incredible routes, and every guide has their personal favorite.
1. The Classic Inca Trail (My Personal Recommendation)
Personally, I always prefer the Classic Inca Trail. This historic path takes you through diverse microclimates, giving us plenty of time to dive deep into Inca history and local flora.
You won’t be alone on this journey; a dedicated team of local porters and staff will assist you every step of the way. The ultimate highlight is arriving at Machu Picchu through the Sun Gate (Intipunku) right at sunrise—a truly unforgettable sight. Plus, you get to camp under the stars and enjoy authentic Andean meals prepared by talented trekking cooks using fresh, natural ingredients.
2. Popular Alternatives
While the Inca Trail is my top suggestion, other expert guides prefer different routes depending on what you are looking for:
The Salkantay Trek: Ideal for those who love high-altitude alpine landscapes and rugged glacial views.
The Lares Trek or Inca Quarry Trail: Perfect for travelers wanting to connect with local weaving communities and avoid the crowds.
The Short Inca Trail: A great 2-day option that combines a day of hiking with a scenic train ride.
3. Extreme Expeditions for True Adventurers
For seasoned hikers looking for a raw, survival-style challenge, there are deep-wilderness expeditions:
The 9-Day Choquequirao to Machu Picchu Trek: A grueling but spectacular trek connecting two massive Inca citadels.
The Vilcabamba Trek: The last Inca capital. Much less known than Choquequirao. You finish at Machu Picchu on Day 6. Most trekkers don’t even know it exists.
The Salkantay-Inca Trail Connection: A demanding route that cuts through Salkantay, connects via Huayllabamba, and joins the final stretch of the traditional Inca Trail.
