Hiking to Machu Picchu completely changes the experience. Stepping off a train and entering the citadel is not the same as seeing it appear after several days of effort. The question is which way to get there, because each route offers a different journey.
The Classic Inca Trail is the original trail used by the Incas. Lares takes you through villages where people still weave and farm as their grandparents did. Inca Jungle combines cycling, rivers, and jungle before the final hike.
In this comparison, we’ll show you how the routes differ, how demanding each one is, and what kind of traveler will enjoy each route most. That way, you can choose the one that suits you, not simply the one everyone else chooses.
The Three Routes Compared
Before we get into the details, take a quick look at the main differences.
| Feature | Inca Trail | Lares | Inca Jungle |
|---|---|---|---|
| Duration | 4 days / 3 nights | 3 or 4 days | 4 days / 3 nights |
| Hiking distance | About 43 km | 30 to 40 km, depending on the route | About 30 km on foot, plus 50 to 65 km by bike |
| Highest point | 4,215 m above sea level (Warmiwañusqa) | 4,400 to 4,700 m above sea level | 4,316 m above sea level (Abra Málaga, by bike) |
| Difficulty | Moderate to challenging | Moderate | Moderate |
| Special permit | Yes, limited spots | No | No |
| Availability | March through January (closed in February) | Year-round | Year-round |
| Accommodations | Camping | Camping and hotels | Hostels and hotels |
| What sets it apart | Original Inca trail and entry through Inti Punku | Weaving communities and hot springs | Cycling, rafting, zip-lining, and hot springs |
| How you reach Machu Picchu | On foot, through the Sun Gate | By train from Ollantaytambo | On foot from Hidroeléctrica |
Inca Trail: Walk in the Footsteps of the Incas
Of the three routes, this is the only one that follows a trail built by the Incas, with stone steps, tunnels, and archaeological sites accessible only on foot. It starts at kilometer 82 and ends at Inti Punku, the Sun Gate, where you get your first view of Machu Picchu from above.
What You’ll Enjoy Most
- Passing through sites such as Wiñay Wayna and Phuyupatamarca, which aren’t found on either of the other routes.
- Moving from high-altitude landscapes to cloud forest in just a few days.
- Reaching the citadel through the same entrance the Incas used.
Things to Keep in Mind
- Day two is the toughest: you’ll climb to Warmiwañusqa Pass at 4,215 m above sea level.
- Permits are limited and sell out months in advance, especially from May through September.
- The trail closes throughout February for maintenance.
- You can only hike it with an authorized tour operator.
It’s for You If…
You dream of the classic Machu Picchu experience, love history, and don’t mind planning ahead. If you’ve already made up your mind, check out our 4-day Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, with permits and a guide included.
Lares: The Route Through Weaving Villages
Lares may not have a famous Inca trail, but it offers something the other routes rarely do: direct contact with Quechua communities. You’ll hike past lakes, snow-covered mountains, and small villages where families herd llamas and weave by hand using techniques passed down through generations.
Highlights of This Route
- Spending time with local families and seeing traditional weaving up close.
- Relaxing in the Lares hot springs before or after your hike.
- Smaller groups and peaceful trails with very few other hikers.
Before You Choose This Route
- It has the highest passes of the three routes, ranging from 4,400 to 4,700 m above sea level depending on the itinerary, so acclimatizing in Cusco is essential.
- You won’t enter Machu Picchu on foot: the final stretch is by train from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes.
- No special permit is required, so you can book closer to your travel date.
It’s a Good Fit If…
You’re more interested in living culture than ruins, want to avoid crowds, or couldn’t get an Inca Trail permit. Explore our Lares Trek to Machu Picchu and plan your trip without depending on trail permits.
Inca Jungle: Adventure from the Mountains to the Jungle
This route is about more than hiking. On the first day, you’ll bike downhill from Abra Málaga, at 4,316 m above sea level, into the jungle region, covering 50 to 65 km mostly on paved roads. Then come rafting, walks through coffee and fruit plantations, zip-lining, and the final hike alongside the railroad tracks to Aguas Calientes.
Why So Many Travelers Choose It
- It combines several activities in one trip, ideal if you don’t want to hike for days on end.
- You’ll sleep in hostels or hotels rather than tents.
- You’ll finish the second day at the Cocalmayo hot springs in Santa Teresa.
- It’s usually the most affordable of the three options.
Important Details to Know
- Rafting and zip-lining sometimes cost extra, so check what’s included in your package.
- The jungle is hot and has mosquitoes, so bring insect repellent and lightweight clothing.
- From December through March, rain may lead to changes in some activities for safety reasons.
You’ll Love It If…
You’re traveling with friends, looking for an adrenaline rush, or prefer a real bed after each day’s activities. Check out our 4-day Inca Jungle to Machu Picchu and get ready for an exciting journey to the citadel.
Which Should You Choose? Find the Route That Fits Your Travel Style
No route is necessarily better than another. The best one is the one that matches what you’re looking for. Use this table as a starting point.
| If You Are… | Your Ideal Route | Why |
|---|---|---|
| A history and archaeology enthusiast | Inca Trail | It’s the only original Inca trail with archaeological sites along the way |
| A traveler interested in living culture | Lares | You spend time with communities that preserve their traditions |
| A group of friends seeking adventure | Inca Jungle | Cycling, rafting, and zip-lining in one trip |
| Someone planning a trip just weeks ahead | Lares or Inca Jungle | Neither requires a limited-availability trail permit |
| Someone who prefers sleeping in a bed | Inca Jungle | You stay in hostels or hotels overnight |
| Someone who wants to hike into Machu Picchu | Inca Trail | You arrive through the Sun Gate |
| A budget-conscious traveler | Inca Jungle | It’s usually the least expensive of the three |
Still Can’t Decide?
Ask yourself what memory you want to take home. If it’s arriving through the Sun Gate, choose the Inca Trail. If it’s chatting with a weaver in a mountain village, choose Lares. If it’s the thrill of biking down a mountain, Inca Jungle is for you.
And if you’re still unsure, get in touch. We’ll help you choose based on your travel dates, fitness level, and the experiences you want.
Booking, Permits, and the Best Time for Each Route
The biggest difference when planning is the permits. The Inca Trail has a daily limit of about 500 people, including guides and porters, so you need to book several months in advance. Lares and Inca Jungle don’t have that limit; you just need to secure your Machu Picchu entry ticket.
- Inca Trail: book 4 to 6 months ahead, or earlier if you’re traveling between May and September. It’s closed in February.
- Lares: booking a few weeks ahead is usually enough. From June through August, mornings at the high mountain passes are very cold.
- Inca Jungle: you can also book a few weeks in advance. From December through March, rain may affect some activities.
For all three routes, the driest months are April through October. It’s best to arrive in Cusco two or three days before starting, so your body can adjust to the altitude and you can enjoy the trek more.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which Is the Easiest Route to Machu Picchu?
Of the three, Inca Jungle often feels more manageable because it alternates activities and includes hotel stays. Lares and the Inca Trail have long climbs above 4,000 m.
Can I Do Lares or Inca Jungle if I Couldn’t Get an Inca Trail Permit?
Yes. Neither requires a special trail permit, and both end with a guided visit to Machu Picchu.
Which Route Reaches the Highest Altitude?
Lares, with mountain passes reaching 4,400 to 4,700 m above sea level depending on the route. On Inca Jungle, the highest point is where the bike ride begins, not a climb on foot.
Which Route Has the Most Inca Ruins?
The Inca Trail. You’ll pass several archaeological sites before reaching the citadel.
Can You Do Any of These Routes in February?
Yes, Lares and Inca Jungle. The Inca Trail is closed throughout February.
Do I Need Cycling Experience for Inca Jungle?
No. You just need to know how to ride a bike. The descent follows a road, and a support vehicle accompanies the group.
Which Route Do You Recommend for Families?
It depends on the children’s ages. For active families with teenagers, Lares and Inca Jungle are good options. Contact us when booking, and we’ll help you choose.
