Best 10 Treks In Peru

Are you yearning for an unforgettable adventure, a journey that will test your limits and reward you with breathtaking vistas? Prepare to embark on a trek of a lifetime! The diverse and dramatic landscapes of Peru offer some of the most incredible trekking experiences on the planet. Discover ancient pathways, towering mountains, and vibrant cultures that will leave you spellbound.

Highlights

• Venture into the abyss of the world’s deepest canyon, Cotahuasi, plunging to a staggering depth of 3354 meters. Experience the raw power of nature as you gaze upon its immense scale.
• Embark on an epic 5-day journey through Salkantay, a magnificent mountainous alternative to the iconic Inca Trail. Discover hidden valleys, snow-capped peaks, and breathtaking panoramic views.
• Conquer the challenging yet profoundly rewarding Choquequirao trek, leading to the sister city of Machu Picchu. Uncover the secrets of this ancient citadel, a testament to the ingenuity of the Inca civilization.
• Answer the call of adventure and rise to the challenge of one of the legendary treks near Peru’s hiking hotbed, Huaraz. Immerse yourself in the heart of the Andes Mountains and witness unparalleled natural beauty.

Overview

We have meticulously curated this ranking of treks in Peru, carefully considering a combination of factors that contribute to an exceptional trekking experience. Natural beauty, the sheer diversity of the landscapes encountered, opportunities for cultural immersion, and the overall quality of the experience, balanced against the potential for overcrowding, have all been taken into account.

A note about the Inca Trail

The Inca Trail undeniably holds its place as one of the world’s most revered and famous treks. It promises a deeply rewarding experience for anyone fortunate enough to traverse this classic route. However, its popularity has led to significant crowding, which is the primary reason it has been excluded from our main list. Nevertheless, we acknowledge its significance and the unforgettable journey it offers. If you are considering this iconic trek, be sure to research the options available. There is the classic 5-day version, a truly immersive experience, and also the Short Inca Trail, offering a condensed, yet still remarkable, adventure. Given the high demand, permits for the Inca Trail often sell out well in advance. For those seeking alternatives, we have compiled a detailed list of great alternative treks to Machu Picchu, ensuring that you can still experience the magic of the region even if permits are unavailable.

#1 Ausangate, Andahuaylillas, Cusco

Enshrined deep within Inca mythology, the majestic 6380-meter peak of Ausangate stands as the centerpiece of what is arguably Peru’s most visually stunning trek. Embark on a five-to-seven-day journey that completely encircles the slopes of this sacred mountain, reaching incredible heights of over 5000 meters. Prepare to be mesmerized by the stark rainbow-colored rock strata that define this landscape, at points fanning away in breathtaking ripples of color, ranging from the deepest black to the richest copper, stretching as far as the eye can see. Located near Andahuaylillas and Cusco, this trek is a true immersion into the spiritual heart of the Andes.

#2 Cotahuasi Canyon, Arequipa

Prepare to be humbled by the sheer scale of Cotahuasi Canyon, a geological marvel that plunges to depths more than twice that of the Grand Canyon. This colossal chasm carves its way between two imposing 6000m+ massifs, located a scenic three-hour drive northwest of Arequipa. The region offers a diverse array of trekking options, catering to all levels of experience. Choose from invigorating one-day hikes, immersive four-day adventures predominantly focused on hiking, or an epic six-day trek that truly explores the canyon’s depths. Aside from the prestige of conquering the planet’s greatest canyon, the longest trek leads you to the breathtaking 150-meter-high Cascada de Sipia waterfall, suspended hanging bridges that sway precariously over the churning Cotahuasi river, and unparalleled opportunities to witness the majestic Andean condor soaring effortlessly through the sky. Engaging a local guide is highly recommended, as they possess invaluable knowledge of the region’s cultural quirks, where isolation has fostered the preservation of some truly fascinating customs.

#3 Choquequirao, Abancay, Cusco

Whispers abound of a future where a cable car effortlessly whisks visitors up to the magical Inca ruins of Choquequirao in a mere 15 minutes. However, for now, this remains a vision of the future. The four-day out-and-back trek stands as the sole means of reaching this extraordinary site, a journey that will forever remain the most awe-inspiring approach. Begin your adventure with a two-day up-and-down tramp around and across the dramatic Apurimac valley, transporting you from Cachora, situated north of Abancay, up to this ancient citadel. Perched upon a verdant ridge at an altitude of 3050 meters, Choquequirao is believed to have been the last refuge of the Inca, a testament to their resilience and ingenuity. This trek offers a unique opportunity to connect with history and experience the untouched beauty of the Peruvian Andes.

#4 Cordillera Huayhuash, Huaraz

For hikers making their way to the trekking mecca of Huaraz, the Cordillera Huayhuash stands as a dream destination. The allure of tackling this nine-day, 115 km circular route is undeniable, encompassing all the most captivating aspects of these magnificent mountains. Compared to the Cordillera Blanca, the Cordillera Huayhuash typically sees fewer travelers, primarily due to its greater distance from Huaraz and the demanding nature of the trek (it’s considered one of the most challenging hikes in the Americas).

Prepare to be awestruck by the presence of glaciers and a multitude of peaks soaring above 6000 meters. The landscape is further adorned with a scattering of pristine mountain lakes, creating a breathtaking panorama at every turn. The round-trip nature of the trek adds to its appeal, simplifying logistical planning and ensuring a seamless adventure.

#5 Kuelap, Catarata de Gocta and Vira Vira Trek, Chachapoyas

The vibrant northern Peruvian town of Chachapoyas is actively establishing itself as a prominent trekking center, rivaling the likes of Huaraz or Cusco. If you harbor a yearning for an adventure reminiscent of an Indiana Jones expedition, then embarking on treks to the numerous archaeological sites scattered throughout the cloud forest surrounding the town is undoubtedly your calling.

These immersive seven to ten-day treks encompass the region’s most renowned ruin, Kuelap, but also lead you to several other significant sites, including the virtually unknown complex of Vira Vira, boasting an impressive collection of some 200 structures. Another highlight, only discovered in 2006, is the majestic Catarata de Gocta, the world’s third-highest waterfall, which plunges an astonishing 770 meters over cliffs amidst the dense and verdant jungle.

#6 Santa Cruz Trek, Huaraz

High up in the precipitous Cordillera Blanca, most peaks are known as nevados (literally, snow-covered), and it’s no wonder this trek is so popular: it transports hikers to the very best viewing points of one of the world’s most photogenic expanses of mountains. This four-day trek through the heart of Huascaran National Park is a must-do for any avid hiker.

This classic, and comparatively well-signed four-day route, threads below summits brushing up to 6400m high, and connects a ream of ice-blue lakes with side trips to glaciers. Rare wildlife inhabits zones close to the path, including the Andean spectacled bear. The trek begins in Cashapampa and ends in Vaqueria, offering a unique perspective on the diverse ecosystems of the region.

#7 Quilcayhuanca & Cojup Valleys, Huaraz

The sublimely beautiful alternative to the Santa Cruz trek makes you work harder than any other hike in the Cordillera Blanca. One challenge is that pack animals can’t make it on a route ascending to 5000m, so you’ll be carrying your own gear: up into severe elevations. Starting near Huaraz, this trek demands physical endurance and a spirit of adventure.

The three-day slog winds through groves of russet-trunked qeňuas, thought to be the trees growing at the highest altitudes of any in the world and passes lakes as lovely as those on the Santa Cruz trek whilst negotiating the tiniest fraction of the crowds. A guide is nigh-on essential to find the way. This trek, beginning in Pitec and ending in Llupa, offers unparalleled solitude and breathtaking views.

#8 Huaytapallana Trek

Wedged between Huaraz (northwest) and Cusco (southeast) are the less-frequented Central Andes. This five-day trek ushers you east from the city of Huancayo up to the startling glacial lakes of Huaytapallana, with a stretch walking along a glacier. This journey into the heart of the Central Andes offers a unique and challenging adventure.

Llama shepherds help with the toughest stages of this challenging, often barren hike, mostly in the 4200m-4800m contours, for which you require a guide. You’ll finish by descending into lush jungle at the point where the Amazon basin rushes up to meet the mountains. Beginning in Virgen de las Nieves and ending in Racracalla, this trek offers a stunning contrast of landscapes.

#9 Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu, Cusco

Perhaps the most fascinating alternative to the Inca Trail, this five-day approach to Machu Picchu has you traversing a 4460m ridge, confronting tangles of cloud forest, stopping off to harvest then drink your own organic coffee whilst meeting the farmers who cultivate the crop and bypassing the ruins of Llactapata. This trek, originating near Cusco, offers a blend of adventure, culture, and natural beauty.

All the while, vistas of the 6272m summit of Salkantay are woven in. The trek begins in Soray Pampa and ends at the Hydroelectrica, providing a unique perspective on the journey to Machu Picchu.

#10 Lares Trek to Machu Picchu

Inca sites dot the mountains around Cusco and this four-day, seldom-trod hike to Machu Picchu encompasses one of these (Pumahuanca) as well as a 1300m initial ascent, the spectacular mountain lake of Yanacocha and the trek highlight, the inviting thermal springs of Lares. Starting near Pumahuanca and ending in Aguas Termales, Lares, this trek offers a chance to experience the cultural heart of the Sacred Valley.

An intriguing aspect to this route can be the stop in a village along the path, Cuncani, where trekkers get the chance to chat to locals and immerse themselves in the local culture. This trek is perfect for those seeking a more authentic and off-the-beaten-path experience.

Ready to start planning your trek?

Are you feeling inspired to explore the majestic trails of Peru? Do you dream of conquering challenging peaks, discovering ancient ruins, and immersing yourself in vibrant cultures? Don’t wait any longer to turn your trekking dreams into reality. Start planning your unforgettable adventure today!

Let the journey begin!