What is the best way to get to Machu Picchu? Inca Trail, Inka Jungle Trail and Salkantay

The famous Classic Inca Trail to Machu Picchu is one of the 10 most sought after trekking routes in the world. For this reason, there was a need to limit the number of hikers per day to only 500. If you choose this trail you must make a reservation at least 3 months in advance. The Inca Trail can be done in 2 or 4 days and during the route will pass through 34 archaeological sites. In February the trail closes for maintenance.Salkantay, an alternative

Salkantay Trek is overcoming! The highest, most difficult and longest. The trail is 5 to 7 days, climbing the Peruvian Andes above 4,000 meters. The hike goes through extreme points: from snowy peaks to forests of the Amazon rainforest with rivers and waterfalls, with temperatures ranging from -10ºC to 30ºC.

♦ To make this trail you need to have good fitness

♦ No advance booking required, you can book the tour on time (even cheaper)

♦ Carry appropriate clothing for negative temperatures. It's really cold!

♦ Don't forget: raincoat and waterproof boots

Inka Jungle Trail, An Alternative

The cheapest machupicchu jungle trek departs from Santa Maria and can be done in 2 to 5 days. This trail is ideal for those who like multisports. In addition to hiking, the trail winds through the Urubamba River, where you can go rafting and in the mountains there is the option of cycling.Choquequirao Trek, An Alternative

Choquequirao Trek, meaning Cradle of Gold, is an Incan City built during the late 15th and early 16th century. It is thought that Pachacuti, the Incan Emperor responsible for commissioning Machu Picchu, founded Choquequirao, which was then passed on to his son, Tupaq Inka Yupanki, who then extended and remodelled it.

The site is located above the valley of Apurímac river, 98km from Cusco and in the Willkapamba mountain range, and covers an area of 6 square kilometres.

Restoration of the site began in the 1970s and still continues today. As of 2014, nearly 50% of the site had been excavated.

Vilcabamba Trek, An Alternative

The Vilcabamba trek to Machu Picchu is a hidden treasure that has yet to be heavily impacted by tourism. The trail is remote, very beautiful and super quiet. Trekkers get to pass through snow-capped mountains on a number of original and well-preserved Inca trails.The trek is typically completed on a 5-day itinerary, although there are variations, particularly on the route out to the trailhead.

Recommendations for all trails to Machu Picchu

Best time: December to March, in summer, rains are frequent. If it rains a lot the entrance to Machu Picchu is closed. From June to September, they correspond to times of drought and the rains give a respite. Except Salkantay the weather on the other trails is hot and humid.

Before you make the trail: A good night's sleep is critical. Drinking plenty of fluids, especially coca tea, helps minimize the effects of thin air. Avoid drinking alcohol before going for a walk.

Who can go: Anyone as long as they know the limits of their body. The Salkantay Trail requires better fitness.

Agencies and reservation: Except the Inca Trail the other trails do not need to be booked in advance as they are not controlled by the government. Generally, for security, some agencies require a deposit of 50% of the amount charged to secure the vacancy, but it is not required! There are daily departures from Cusco and hundreds of agencies to meet the demand. Try to choose agencies recommended by other travelers.

Clothing: The Salkantay Trail requires the most attention. During the course the climate changes a lot and temperatures are below freezing. It is therefore very important to maintain body temperature to prevent hypothermia. Bring clothes suitable for low temperature trucks. Also bring cooler clothes for the last two days of jungle walking.

♦ Layered cold clothes

Coat: 1 waterproof anorak + 1 fleece coat + 1 underwear

Pants: 1 fleece pants + 1 underwear. No jeans, huh guys!

Shoes: Boot or new sneakers = bubbles, watch out! Avoid cotton socks. Proper walking socks help perspirate the feet and also prevent unwanted blisters.

Sleeping Bag: If you do not have an appropriate bag for negative temperatures, do not think twice about renting - at the agency itself. When receiving, make sure the zipper is in place. Also ask if thermal insulation is included. It serves to isolate the temperature of the ground with your body.

Backpack: No matter which trail you choose to take, carry only what is needed. A backpack of up to 35 liters is sufficient. In the post how to choose the best backpack to travel , there are several tips. Many Cusco lodgings provide lockers for trekkers . Leave your backpack in the locker and carry the smallest backpack. Delete from your life the thought, "Sometimes I may need this piece, I'll take it." I repeat, take only what is necessary !!! Unless you pay a porter or a mule, which I personally am against this kind of service.