The Best Trekking Routes in Peru: Unmissable Adventures in the Land of the Andes

Peru is a country brimming with history, culture, and incredible adventures. Its rich natural diversity—from the coast to the mountains and the jungle—has long attracted outdoor enthusiasts. The Peruvian Andes, running like a backbone through the center of the country, offer fascinating landscape variations that make Peru one of the best trekking destinations in the world. Cloud forests, Andean mountain ranges, the world’s deepest canyon, and remarkable ancient ruins await exploration.

Highlights of Trekking in Peru

• Hike one of the top ten treks in the world: the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, 42 km.
• Trek through the world’s deepest canyon in Arequipa.
• Explore Salkantay, a scenic 4- or 5-day alternative to the Inca Trail.
• Take on the challenging yet rewarding trek to Choquequirao, Machu Picchu’s sister city in Cusco.
• Embrace the challenge of legendary treks near Peru’s adventure hub, Huaraz.

Inca Trail to Machu Picchu (4 or 5 Days)

On the 4-day Inca Trail, you’ll hike approximately 42 km (26.7 miles) over 25 hours. The highest point reaches 4,215 m (13,828 ft).

The Classic Inca Trail to Machu Picchu is renowned as one of the top ten treks in the world. Follow the footsteps of the Incas while discovering extraordinary ecological diversity and numerous archaeological treasures. The Historic Sanctuary of Machu Picchu spans 13,000 hectares and includes:

• A network of Inca roads.
• Dozens of archaeological sites.
• 10 ecological zones, ranging from glacial peaks to tropical forests.
• Over 450 bird species and 200 orchid species.

Rainbow Mountain Trek (1 Day in Cusco)

A natural marvel, Rainbow Mountain is nestled in the Peruvian Andes. Its stunning, colorful beauty has made it one of the most popular treks in Cusco. Nearby, you can also explore the striking Red Valley. This hike can be done in just one day, and you can find the tour even last minute.
The tour consist in leaving early before sunrise, then you drive along the South Valley passing through Andean Villages, the ride lasts 3 hours or so, arriving at the basecamb you hike for around 3 hours back & forth (You can opt for a horseback ride, that cost around S/100 PEN or $30 USD). Finally, you come back to Cusco by 5 pm.

Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu (4 Days)

The Salkantay Trek is the second most popular hike in Peru, the perfect option if you could not get Inca trail pertmits, it is a challenging and scenic route to Machu Picchu. You reach as high as 4600 masl, this ancient path winds through subtropical jungles and high-altitude mountains.

This trek let you experience a mix of climates, revealing an incredible contrast of Peruvian landscapes along the way. Treks could last from 2 to 7 days, featuring undesribable views such as the the magestic Apu Salkantay Mountain and the vibrant turquoise waters of Humantay Lake, surrounded by eternal Andean glaciers.

Highlights include:

• Humantay Lagoon.
• Diverse wildlife.
• Lesser-known Inca ruins.

Santa Cruz and Laguna 69 Trek (Huaraz)

Located in the Cordillera Blanca near Huaraz in northern Peru, the Santa Cruz trek is one of the most beautiful mountain hikes in the country. It features:

• Native Andean wildlife.
• Stunning alpine landscapes.
• The famous Laguna 69.

Colca Canyon Trek (Arequipa)

The Colca Canyon, more than twice as deep as the Grand Canyon, is the second deepest canyon in the world. This strenuous trek rewards hikers with:

• Stunning waterfalls.
• Colorful flowers.
• Majestic birds.
• Fascinating pre-Inca ruins.

Ausangate Trek (Cusco

This 4, 5, or 7-day trek circles the sacred, snow-covered Ausangate Mountain in the heart of the Andes. The trail reaches a maximum altitude of 5,200 meters (17,060 feet) and passes:

• Glaciers.
• Azure glacial lakes.
• Panoramic mountain views.

Highlights along the way include Rainbow Mountain, the Red Valley, and the Seven Lakes.

Choquequirao Trek (Cusco)

While most visitors flock to Machu Picchu, its “little sister,” Choquequirao, offers a hidden gem for adventurers. Similar in design to Machu Picchu, Choquequirao features impressive stone structures nestled deep in the Andes. However, reaching it requires a 3- to 4-day trek, or for longer options to get to Machupicchu the 8 day Choquequirao trek is the perfect option. Its remoteness guarantees a more intimate and less crowded experience.

Huayhuash Circuit (Huaraz)

Once considered a dangerous route, the Huayhuash Circuit has gained popularity due to improved safety measures. This challenging trek features:

• Pristine glacial lakes.
• Snow-capped mountains.
• Encounters with native communities.

Though demanding, the rewards are unparalleled, and you’re likely to see few other trekkers along the way.

Lares Trek to Machu Picchu (Cusco)

This trek combines breathtaking scenery with rich cultural experiences. It takes you off the beaten path to:

• Remote Indigenous communities that preserve Inca traditions.
• Stunning glacial landscapes.
• Majestic waterfalls.
• Llamas and alpacas in their natural habitat.

A perfect option offering a cultural and arqueological experience is the 5 day Lares + Short Inca Trail.

Whether you’re a seasoned trekker or just starting to dream about your journey to Peru, contact us to plan your adventure with our local experts!