Mountain Lodges of Peru Machu Picchu Trip

Why It's Good:

You'll find a lot fewer tourists—and infinitely more cushiness—than you would on the standard Inca Trail.

Why It's Green:

For starters, waste reduction. The company is instituting everything from the trail's first recycling program to water bottle refilling stations (for all local trekkers; not just lodge guests). It also supports sustainable development projects.

Where To Get It:

http://www.mountainlodgesofperu.com |   $2500.00

The Trek of a Lifetime

Though every bit the magical mystery tour prophesied by the collective Inca Trail literature, my first trek to Machu Picchu three years ago was also a litany of grossness and discomfort that included—but was not limited to—four shower-free days, three warmth-free nights, and two spectacularly flatulent Aussies for whom our tents were no containment strategy. However, I've just hiked to Machu Picchu again—this time with Mountain Lodges of Peru—and my friends, I've seen the light. Quite literally...in my room at each of the company's four new lodges, where I also hit the holy grail of hiking: ye olde private lav with shower. To say nothing of the hot tubs, down bedding, and wine list. Not that creature comforts were the sum total of this trek, of course. Far more important—okay, at least as compelling—was the trail itself: an Inca Trail alternative called la ruta Salkantay that's basically the high road (hello, 15,200-foot pass) to Machu Picchu. Presiding over the route is its drop-dead gorgeous namesake peak, the Cordillera Vilcabamba's tallest, with an excellent supporting cast of waterfalls, rivers, orchids, and mules. Regarding these last characters: As hard as you train for this trek—and believe me, you should—there's no way you're carrying your own stuff. —Abbie Kozolchyk