The Moonstone Trek vs. the Inca Trail

The Inca Trail. Those three words carry worldwide recognition; this iconic trek through Peru’s jungles to the lost city of Machu Picchu is one of the most famed and prestigious in the world. But it’s not the only one. There are secret paths that wind through the Peruvian Andes, every bit as beautiful as the Inca Trail, but far less travelled upon. This is the Moonstone Trek. Named after an ancient and mysterious stone carving along its route, the Moonstone Trek is the little-known alternative to the Inca Trail. We’re one of the only companies who follow this route at all, so we’re pretty well qualified to speak about the subject! Join us as we break down the differences between the Moonstone Trek and the Inca Trail, and hopefully help you figure out which is right for you.

Get away from the crowds

It’s no surprise that the Inca Trail receives thousands upon thousands of visitors per year. What may surprise you, though, is just how few the Moonstone Trek receives. No less gorgeous than the Inca Trail, the Moonstone alternative is hardly touched. You could very easily follow the route in its entirety and never encounter another group of adventurers. You’ll virtually have the mountains to yourself!

Wild campsitesWild. Remote. Clear. Camping on the Moonstone Trek is a far cry from the busy Inca Trail campsites.

No limits!

Where only human porters are allowed on the Inca Trail, no such limitations exist on the Moonstone Trek; horses will carry your luggage which means you've got a little more freedom in your packing. Weight limits still exist, so don't go packing your whole wardrobe just yet, but you'll be able to grab that extra pair of socks or a few additional layers without worry.

Challenge yourself

The Moonstone Trek is a little higher than the Inca Trail. At these altitudes, every meter counts, so it’s slightly more difficult. You’ll have to be prepared for the extra challenge, but the views and sense of accomplishment at the end are worth it!

No permits

Good news! Unlike the Inca Trail, you won’t need a permit to travel on the Moonstone Trek. This gives you a little more leeway when it comes to booking – it’s more flexible. What’s more, if Inca Trail permits are sold out, the Moonstone Trek can be substituted free of charge!

See Machu Picchu

The end of the Inca Trail is famously the Sun Gate, which dramatically overlooks Machu Picchu. While the Moonstone Trek ends in the dramatic ruins of Ollantaytambo rather than at the Sun Gate, you’ll still get a guided tour of Machu Picchu the following day, and you’ll be able to trek up to the Sun Gate then! The Incas built thousands of kilometres of trails. The Inca Trail known throughout the world today is, in fact, just one of many. If you’re after an adventure into the heart of a lost civilisation, with all the beauty of the Inca Trail but none of the congestion, then the Moonstone Trek is for you.