Whether you are a beginner or a fairly experienced traveler, surely you have heard of the wonder of the world known as Machu Picchu. It is one of the most famous tourist attractions in the Andean country. In itself, visiting Peru and not going through Machu Picchu is a journey that is not complete.
Despite how spectacular these Inca ruins are, there are other equally incredible and impressive alternatives. You can complement your trip with a tour of the following ruins, or in case you have not booked your tickets on time, you can go through the following alternatives. That is why, together with Machu Travel Peru, we have prepared an article about Machu Picchu alternatives.
Some of the best alternatives to the Inca City
- Choquequirao
- Kuelap
- Chan Chan
- Chavín de Huantar
- Ollantaytambo
- Sacsayhuaman
- Sipan
- Vilcambamba
- Huchuy Qosqo
- Waqrapuakara
Choquequirao
This is the best alternative to Machu Picchu; it is practically the “younger brother” of Machu Picchu, although it is considerably larger than it is. It is not as crowded with tourists because it is not usually as popular as the Wonder of the World. It is accessible only by a rather laborious three to four-day hike, but comparable to the “Inca Trail”, even considered by many to be one of the best hikes in Peru.
Choquequirao is located at an altitude of 3,050 meters above sea level. It is an ancient site that rises above the Apurímac River and is located on a flat hill. Practically built at the same time as Machu Picchu. Choquequirao typically attracts fewer than 20 people per day, ensuring a quiet visit. This is the most suitable alternative to Machu Picchu; the ruins are very similar and will give you a similar feeling to what you get from the Wonder of the World.
Kuelap
The mysterious ruins of Kuelap are located high in the hills of northern Peru, and these were formerly inhabited by the “cloud people” belonging to the Chachapoya culture. The Kuelap ruins are one of the archaeological treasures in Peru and are made up of three levels, which were built between 400 BC and 1470 AD, approximately. These ruins are quite unusual due to their circular constructions and contain over 550 structures.
In their excavations, archaeologists found different blonde mummies, which were pre-Inca. Within it, all Kuelap is quite affordable and a perfect opportunity to explore ruins of great magnitude. The only downside is that they are located a bit far, but still, the different tours include transportation, a guide, lunch, and admission. Kuelap also has a wonderful hike that could easily compete with the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu. The accommodations in Chachapoyas are usually quite cheap, making it a very good alternative to Machu Picchu.
Chan Chan
Chan Chan was one of the largest cities in the Pre-Columbian era within all of South America. It was the ancient capital of the Chimor Empire. This incredible city was home to approximately 40,000 to 60,000 people, and its influences spread throughout the Peruvian coast. The Chimú were defeated by the ascending Inca Empire that would later build the well-known Wonder of the World.
Within the many Machu Picchu facts, you will find more reasons to visit it. Although Chan Chan is an excellent alternative.
One of the most interesting features of the city is its impressive ornamental reliefs on the walls, featuring geometric patterns and figures of local flora and fauna. Today, these ruins are a few hours away from the city of Trujillo.
Chavin de Huantar
If you were not lucky enough to get Machu Picchu tickets you can choose to console yourself with a beautiful tour in Chavín de Huantar. Chavín de Huantar was considered an important place for religious pilgrimage.
It consists of a large central square and a temple with several tunnels and underground chambers. At the bottom of the underground labyrinth is the most important relic of the Chavín cult, a carved monolith about 5 meters high, representing the most important deities. One of the best alternatives to Machu Picchu, without a doubt.
Chavín was one of the most important pre-Inca civilizations in ancient Peru. This culture had a relevant and great impact on the Incas, in addition to other later civilizations. Many characteristics that were generally associated with the Incas were actually part of the Chavín civilization. The domestication of llamas, the cultivation of potatoes, corn, and quinoa, as well as religious aspects, were originally part of this culture.
Ollantaytambo
Ollantaytambo is another great alternative to Machu Picchu. Many even choose to visit this wonderful site before embarking on an adventure to the citadel. The town of Ollantaytambo is one of the few that still retains its traditional charm. It has been inhabited since the 13th century and is surrounded by archaeological Peruvian ruins. The nearby site is a kind of temple and fortress. Being able to climb the terraces and enjoy the imposing views is a great spectacle to behold.
Getting to Ollantaytambo is relatively easy, and you can do it from Cusco. You can take a taxi or a bus, both of which are very accessible economically. You can also choose to look for a guided tour that includes transportation. Keep in mind that the Cusco tourist ticket includes the entrance to these wonderful ruins.
Sacsayhuaman
Sacsayhuaman is one of the best alternatives to Machu Picchu. This wonderful and spectacular Inca site has some immaculate views of the city of Cusco. And this is not to mention that it is one of the most visited Inca ruins in Peru.
This large complex of ruins is one of the finest examples of precision Inca stonework and architecture. You will be able to appreciate walls built with giant stones, some of which weigh more than 100 tons. These stones fit together perfectly, leaving no room for even a knife blade between the stones.
Visiting this fortress is highly recommended, whether you visit the Inca citadel or not. If you are planning a trip to Peru, before starting your tour, we highly recommend visiting this imposing site.
Sipan
In case you have missed the magnificent train to Machu Picchu, there is always the option to visit the tomb of El Señor de Sipán. Sipán is located in northern Peru, near the charming city of Chiclayo. Sipán refers to the Lord of Sipán, an ancient mummy found in an excavation at Huaca Rajada. It is believed to date from around the 50s and 700s A.D. Different historians and scholars believe that this mummy was a member of the ancient Moche civilization. This had its place in the north of Peru.
One of the characteristics that makes this mummy so special is that the tomb was completely intact. Something unusual in the region due to the numerous grave robbers in ancient times.
Inside the museum and the archaeological complex, you will be able to appreciate a large number of articles of great historical importance. Among them were gold, silver, and turquoise ornaments that were used to adorn the tomb. All are in excellent condition and are quite a spectacle to behold. One of the best alternatives to Machu Picchu. This wonderful place is worth knowing.
Vilcabamba
Vilcabamba is more than a remote archaeological site; it is a symbol of resistance. After the Spanish captured Cusco in 1533, Manco Inca Yupanqui retreated into the rugged jungles of La Convención province. He set up Vilcabamba as the last Inca capital. It was a hidden place where the Incas fought back against the invaders for over 30 years.
Today, the site most commonly associated with Vilcabamba is Espíritu Pampa, often called “Vilcabamba the Great”. While it does not have the polished stonework of Machu Picchu, its story is important. It shows the determination of a people who would not give up their culture and freedom. Visitors walking through its wild terraces and broken ruins can almost hear the echoes of a civilization’s last stand.
Reaching Vilcabamba requires determination, much like it did centuries ago. The journey often includes driving and hiking through subtropical forests. Here, orchids bloom and rivers cut through valleys. For adventurous travelers, the reward is immense: an authentic encounter with history, away from crowds.
Huchuy Qosqo
In stark contrast to the jungle-covered ruins of Vilcabamba, Huchuy Qosqo, which translates as “Little Cusco”, is perched high on a plateau overlooking the Sacred Valley. Believed to have been built by Inca ruler Viracocha in the 15th century, it served as an administrative and agricultural hub, strategically placed to control the fertile valley below.
What makes Huchuy Qosqo so special is the harmony between its architecture and its environment. Terraces slope down the hills. Adobe and stone walls protect against the wind. Visitors enjoy stunning views of the valley from the site, with snowcapped peaks of the Urubamba range rising in the distance, while the river snakes through the valley floor thousands of feet below.
Hiking to Huchuy Qosqo is an adventure in itself. Several routes lead there: from Tambomachay, near Cusco, passing through highland lagoons and grazing llamas; from Chinchero, with its traditional weaving communities; or from Lamay, climbing steep switchbacks up the mountainside. Whichever route is chosen, the journey offers a glimpse of rural Andean life, where farming traditions remain unchanged for centuries.
For travelers who want an authentic Sacred Valley experience without the crowds, Huchuy Qosqo is a perfect alternative.
Waqrapukara
Perched at more than 4,000 meters (13,000 feet) above sea level, Waqrapukara is one of the most visually striking Inca sites in Cusco. Its name, which means “Horned Fortress”, comes from the twin rocky peaks that rise like horns above the plateau, giving the site an almost mythical presence.
While archaeologists suggest that Waqrapukara served both as a ceremonial center and as a strategic lookout, standing on its terraces feels almost otherworldly. From this natural balcony, visitors gaze over dramatic canyons, vast plateaus, and endless horizons where condors sometimes soar.
To reach Waqrapukara, you need to walk. It is only accessible on foot from Acomayo or Sangarará. The treks can take several hours and involve steep ascents, but they reward hikers with pristine landscapes untouched by mass tourism. Camping overnight at the site lets travelers see the sky change colors at sunrise and sunset; it is a magical experience in the Andes.
“I AM NOT THE SAME HAVING SEEN THE MOONSHINE ON THE OTHER SIDE OF THE WORLD”
Peru has so much to offer, it can be hard to know where to start. With many years of experience in the tourism sector, Machu Travel Peru is happy to help with anything regarding your trip to Machu Picchu and any tours around it. Make your Machu Picchu experience an unforgettable one! Contact Us today to plan your dream adventure!
