Inca Trail vs Inca Jungle Trek: Which One Should You Choose?
When I was planning my trip to Machu Picchu, I faced the big question: Should I do the Classic Inca Trail or the Inca Jungle Trek?
After choosing the Jungle Trek and hearing stories from other travelers along the way, I can finally share my honest thoughts to help you decide.
✅ If You Want Tradition and History: Go for the Classic Inca Trail
The Inca Trail is the iconic route — it follows original Inca stone paths and passes through ancient ruins along the way.
Travelers I met said they loved the sense of walking through real history, and of course, finishing right at the Sun Gate for that first magical view of Machu Picchu.
But:
- It’s more expensive 💰
- You need to book months in advance
- It’s 4 days of solid hiking, and some days are pretty tough (like Dead Woman’s Pass at over 4,200 m).
✅ If You Want Adventure and Variety: Pick the Inca Jungle Trek
I chose the Inca Jungle Trek because I wanted something more adventurous — and honestly, I loved every moment.
- Biking down from snowy mountains? Check.
- Optional rafting and ziplining? Check.
- Hiking through jungle paths and crossing rivers? Check.
It felt like a multi-sport adventure rather than just a hike. Plus: - It’s cheaper and easier to book, even last-minute
- The altitude is generally lower after day one, which helped me avoid major altitude sickness
- And I got to relax in hot springs on day 3 (big win after hiking!)
🚩 So, Which One Should You Choose?
- Choose the Classic Inca Trail if you care most about history, want the traditional Machu Picchu arrival, and are ready to book early and take on a tough hike.
- Choose the Inca Jungle Trek if you love variety, adrenaline, meeting other adventurous travelers, and want a cheaper, more flexible option.
🎒 My Verdict:
For me, the Inca Jungle Trek was perfect — fun, dynamic, and full of surprises. I didn’t miss the Inca Trail because I got my Machu Picchu moment and an adventure-packed journey.
But if I ever go back? Maybe I’ll try the Inca Trail next time — just to experience that historic route myself. 😉
