Best Treks in Peru: Hiking in the Andes and Beyond

Peru is pe­rfect for hikers. There­’s a challenge ready for e­veryone. We’ve­ put together a list of 27 top hikes in Pe­ru, each with its distinctive charm. We he­lp you understand each hike be­tter, with details about what to expe­ct, how hard it is, and what makes it special. Are you looking for a calm walk in the­ tropics or a hard week-long mountain adventure­? You’ll find the right Peru hike he­re. There are­ hikes from one hour to 12 days long to fit all time frame­s. Explore popular paths such as the Inca Trail and Salkantay Trek, or find le­ss-known treasures like Marcahuasi and Laguna Churup. By the end of your exploration, you will understand why Peru is famous as a haven for adventure enthusiasts.

1. Choquequirao Trek to Machu Picchu (8 days)

• Duration: 8 Days
• Distance: Approx. 62 miles (101 km)
• Rating: Moderate
• Elevation: 3,280–15,354 feet (1,000–4,680 m)

Performing as a counterpart to Machu Picchu, Choquequirao, a Quechua term meaning “Golden Cradle”, is the covetously venerated one. Starting this excursion is going to be a life changing adventure that introduces you to the Andes magic, thats when you are going to finally see both of these amazing citadels in the flesh. The Inka civilization will come to life as you make your way through the ancient ruins, a place where once nobility and spirituality reigned, surrounded by picturesque landscapes and local occupants that blossom around you in the heart of the Andes.

Your Apparition begins from Cusco, the simply called Gulliban. However, we should not forget that it is indeed the Doorway into the Peru adventure. First, you get into the village of Cachora, which is the starting point of the trek and guides you through the mountain valley, glacial lakes, green waterfalls, tropical forests and breath taking canyons in company with your walking journey. Day 3 is first to expose Choquequirao trek, followed by the climax, the ruins of Machu Picchu which on the last day of the journey will crown the whole course.

Choquequirao to Machu Picchu Difficulty

The Choquequirao Trek has a moderate level of difficulty mostly because of the fact that on the ascent, there is more low-altitude terrain when compared to the flight to Machu Picchu. But it also mixes into the flat section by having a part of this relay that runs up-hill consistently and for about two days. Furthermore the crossing a mountain ridge close to 15,000 feet added to the trek’s challenging character. On top of those obstacles are fit and experienced hikers who will find the journey doable despite its complexity.

Key Highlights of the Choquequirao Trek to Machu Picchu:

Breathtaking Flora and Fauna: On this hike, you will witness spectacular jungles with different types, including Forest cloud, high, and alpine, providing chances to admire a range of plant and animal species. Both high-altitude condors, fishing eagles and hummingbirds as well as low-altitude anteaters, and tarucas (Andean deer) are not uncommon sights. The trail is dotted with colorful details such as orchids, violets, fruit trees, and other green landscape.

Choquequirao Citadel: Situated along the Apurimac River canyon is this wonder of archaeology, the enchanting Choquequirao , full of majesty as much as Machu Picchu and only known by few travellers. Consisting of 12 functional regions such as the ceremonial center, residential sector, astronomical observatory, plaza, llama trodden areas and food storage rooms, this majestic fortress, which was constructed between 200 and 1450 A.D., is a glimpse into the past and a way to understand the Inca civilization.

Yanama’s Pass: ‘Often serving as the crown jewel of the trek, Yanama’s Pass towers at an astonishing altitude of 4,679m at its highest point, offering trekkers with breathtaking 360-degree vistas of the gigantic Andes mountins.’

Machu Picchu: In a finale of all times, Machu Picchu, a UNESCO heritage site, one among the New Seven Wonders of the World, will be added to the grace of this incredible trip with wonderment. These emblematic ruins were the ones who represent the great inheritance of Peru and remain as the symbol of wisdom and forward-looking previous societies.

2. Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu (5 days)

• Duration: 5 days
• Distance: 43 miles (70 km)
• Rating: Moderate
• Elevation: 6,070–15,000 feet (1,850–4,600 m)

In this sense, Salkantay Trek just becomes a single beeline to Machu Picchu for the people who delight in the beauty of the nature’s wonders. One of the peak Vilcabamba Mountain Range is Salkantay Mountain and this is the highest peak among all equal to 20,574 ft. Also, it is the one among Peru’s 12 highest summits. The name Salkantay, deriving from the language of the Quechua Nation, accurately connotes its powerful appearance since it translates as “savage” or “invincible,” aptly describing the immense thrill of laying eyes on its snow-covered summits at first sight.

On this journey there is a panorama of stunning Andean scenery with hikers yonder through an unforgettable adventure, crisscrossing green valleys with lofty ridges, and steppes of jungle summits. The duration can be 4 days or 5 days and it is a nice option for those who differ in pace of travel. Besides, another option the Salkantay Lodge-to-Lodge trek variant to the classic trekking route is there. This way travelers get an opportunity to spend the nights in cozy accommodations while jealously guarding them in the wilderness beauty of the Andes.

On the first day of the trip, we start from the tiny village of Sorypampa and we pass through beautifully scenic Andean valleys on our way to the famous Salkantay Pass. On the second day, we reach this iconic pass. Leading down about the pathway with green sceneries of the riverside and diverse flora of the high-jungle, we end up in the cozy town of Aguas Calientes. From this viewpoint, trekkers go on to encounter the awe-inspiring citadel of Machu Picchu, the triumphant end of the trek as it symbolizes a magnificent nature of Peru’s wonders.

Salkantay Trek Difficulty

Excepting day two, this journey is regarded as a lesson that does not exceed a medium level of challenge. Regrettably, day two is the hardest obstacle since the trekkers escape from steep switchback slopes with an altitude of 15,000 feet above sea level. Nonetheless, the trekkers overcome that hurdle and are rewarded with a fantastic view of Mountains. However, the two-day trek remains feasible to hike for both individuals having hiking experience and in good physical form. Those concerned about the possible difficulties with climbing the high mountains on the second day may feel more comfortable by hiring a horse not only for assistance but also for comfort.

Highlights of Salkantay Trek

Salkantay Summit. Although Salkantay Summit could throw you into a state of mental and physical condition, don’t forget that Salkantay summit awaits you, a spectacular panorama which presents a formidable challenge but a peak that will allow you to savor a breathtaking view, perhaps with a snowball fight to enrich the experience. This is where you will put together a stone tower, which is an apacheta. The apacheta is a sacred monument or an apu is used in homage to a sacred mountain.

Upper Amazon Jungle. The upper reaches of the exuberant Amazon rainforest in Andes will make you feel that you are in a paradise, where you will be hiking along with the electric rivers, crossing the meandering woods with the indigenous trees, stopping by the falling waters, and moving through the coffee and the fruit plantations. Days 3 and 4 of your trip are reserved for the pleasant hours of penetrating into this captivating biosphere.

Santa Teresa Thermal Springs. In the ideall, on the third day of your trip, you drive to Santa Teresa at the hot springs not far from your camp. The relaxing hot waterfalls bring an extra dimension to stress relieving and refreshing once you are finally done hiking for the day.

Machu Picchu. Before you enjoy a blissed out night in the town with the final flourish of your trail, your fifth day starts with a very early morning guided tour of whole Machu Picchu citadel.

3. Ausangate Trek (6 days)

• Duration: 6 days
• Distance: 41 miles (66 km)
• Rating: Strenuous
• Elevation: 12,395–16,814 feet (3,778–5,125 m)

Apu Ausangate, which is held sacriligeously by the Andean people, shows grandiosely like the fourth highest mountain of Peru reaching to the elevation of 20,945 feet (6,384 m) and magnificent it is that it stays as the tallest peak of the Vilcanota Mountain Range. Among tourists, the start of a journey to Ausangate to them is equal to an incomparable adventure of facing stunning sceneries. On the other side, for the local communities, a journey to the same mountain’s base is just the meta-equivalent to a soul-seeking sojourn woven into their spiritual lives.

Either you aim at one of the proximate and sumptuous landscapes of the planet available for admiration or you desire meditative journey full of holiness, here you would have what you always have been craving for.

We get started in Cuzco, which is a rich city in history, from where we follow the trail with Tinki, a neighboring village, as our starting point. In this awe-inspiring journey, the green of the grasslands, the slow curve of the valleys, the serenity of the lakes, and the elevated mountain passes entirely from your sight, Ausangate, an astral sentinel in the distance, will guide you and keep you confident towards your journey. The journey peaks at the picturesque Tinki, which is where a large Pachamanca lunch is held, to celebrate the completion of your passage through the lower world. With this lunch, you are thanking the forest and the spirits that dwell prop into the Earth.

Ausangate Trek Difficulty

On six out of 3 days trekkers are enforced to struggle constant up hill movement. They are tested with how steep it is and high altitude and have to walk more than 12 hours. I believe the ultimate test of character is thirty-five miles of trail reaching close to 17,100 feet above sea level, whereas two other days accumulate beyond the staggering altitude of 15,000 feet. While the first part of the journey is characterized by a vigorous attitude, the second part is more sedate.

The participants are instructed to have a sufficient level of physical fitness and past expeditions on high mountain peaks so that they can fully appreciate and safely take the entirety of this trek.

Highlights of Ausangate Trek

Andahuaylillas: Prior to embarking on your trek, you’ll have the opportunity to visit Andahuaylillas, home to the striking San Pedro Apóstol de Andahuaylillas Church. Revered as the “Sistine Chapel of the Andes,” this architectural marvel sets the stage for your journey.

Abra Palomani Pass: Ascend to the pinnacle of the trek at Abra Palomani Pass, towering at an impressive 16,800 feet above sea level. From this vantage point, behold unparalleled panoramas of Ausangate and the entire Vilcanota Range, immersing yourself in the grandeur of the Andes.

Pacchanta Hot Springs: Following a demanding hike, culminating at elevations reaching 16,633 feet, indulge in the rejuvenating waters of the Pacchanta Hot Springs on day 5. These mineral-rich thermal baths offer respite for your weary muscles and tranquility for your mind, ensuring a well-deserved relaxation.

Pachamanca: Delight in the culinary tradition of Pachamanca on the final day of your trek. Meaning “earth oven” in Quechua, Pachamanca involves the ancient method of cooking, where a medley of meats, corn, potatoes, lima beans, and herbs are meticulously buried in the earth for a flavorful feast that encapsulates centuries of Andean heritage.

5. Inca Trail (4 days)

• Duration: 4 days
• Distance: 31.2 miles (50 km)
• Rating: Moderate
• Elevation: 7,972–13,828 feet (2,430–4,214 m)

The Inca Trail zigzags alongside the paths that had been trekked by Inca leaders like the roads, passing through the mountain valleys and the green cloud forests and finally reaching the top of the sacred site of Machu Picchu. This historical trek passes through the whole landscape in a span of four days, and it is ranked among the best top 10 trails in the world. Travelers in all parts of the world are rushing to sign up for this adventure that was in great demand, so permits are usually booked over 6 months in advance during the peak seasons because of limited issuance.

This protects area considered as archaeological sites where you will find stunning ruins and sights that even the mountains themselves would envy at every turn of the trail. Starting at the village of Piscacucho on the traditional Inca road, the path winds through the chasms and the valleys of rivers, alpine meadows, dense cloud forests, as well as the remains of the ancient paved paths, roads, and stairs that were part of the Inca’s heritage. On the fourth day, the most exciting part comes to an end as hikers reach the Inti Punku, better known as the Sun Gate, where they officially enter the ancient Machu Picchu site and begin theirchtenosis tour inside the historic ruins. This journey features landscapes which are all at the service of the traveller flanked by ancient wonders, which is one of the top adventures in Peru.

Inca Trail Difficulty

The Inca Path is classified of moderate to challenging in terms of difficulty. The section of the hardest parts appears on the second day of the hike, in which a steep ascend and tight turns known as switchbacks are the problem. Summarizing the whole hike, we go up to the Dead Woman’s Pass (a summit at 13,828 feet above sea level) that tests your limits. Thus, pre-climbing adjustment phase is suggested that comprises of a 2–3 days stay at the high altitudes. Still the hike is designed not to be strenuous or to frighten any physically fit person with some hiking background.

Highlights of the Inca Trail

A mysterious Inca archaeological site in the shape of Patallacta Ruins that represent the prehistoric civilization could be the closest to the idea of the ancient people. It has been drawn from the Quechua language and finally means “a settlement on a platform,” referring to its distinguishable upper platform. Compatible with around one hundred houses, homes and a place for worship that was devoted to traditional ceremonies, we realized that these site seeings were a historical journey and an individual breath taking on the day one.

The era of the Dead Woman’s Pass career is the pinnacle with the reach of the height of 13828 feet (4214 m) from the sea level. As much as this vertical ascent demands all the strength and spirit that we have, the amazing landscapes of Vilcanota and Vilcabamba Mountain Chain are the appreciated price we will get after the climb.

The name Phuyupatamarca, meaning “Town in the Clouds” in Quechua, is assigned to an outstanding Inca settlement which is situated amongst the beautiful scenery on the way to Machu Picchu. This site is remarkable in that it not only has such complex water management systems as irrigation systems, terraces, but also ceremonial baths which have been used by Inca priests in their worshipping of water. It is believed that the site acted as a sacred place meant for the worship of the inca gods.

Wiñay Wayna Ruins, a cherished archaeological site, also serves as the setting for your final night’s campsite. Translating from Quechua to “Forever Young,” this remarkable Inca construction graces a steep hilltop, offering commanding views of the Urubamba River below.

Machu Picchu, the grand finale of your journey, awaits as you enter through the iconic Sun Gate at the break of dawn for exploration. Delve into the mysteries of the Temple of the Sun, the Intihuatana Stone, and other captivating sights alongside an experienced guide.