10 Best Hikes in Peru

1. The Classic Inca Trail to Machu Picchu

Hike Overview

This world-famous trek offers an unparalleled journey into the heart of the Inca empire. You will walk upon ancient stone paths laid down by the Incas themselves, traversing a remarkable range of ecosystems. The route ascends from high Andean plains into ethereal cloud forests, culminating in the unforgettable experience of entering Machu Picchu at dawn through the Sun Gate.

Key Stats

• Duration: 4 days / 3 nights
• Distance: Approx. 43 km / 26 miles
• Difficulty: Moderate to Challenging
• Max Elevation: 4,215 m / 13,828 ft (Dead Woman’s Pass)

Best For

History buffs, bucket-list tickers, and those seeking the iconic, traditional route to Machu Picchu.

Highlights

• Arriving at the Sun Gate (Inti Punku) for the first sunrise view of Machu Picchu.
• Exploring various Incan ruins along the trail, such as Wiñay Wayna and Phuyupatamarca.
• Traversing diverse landscapes from Andean highlands to cloud forest.

Practical Tip

Booking far in advance is absolutely critical for this trek. Government-issued permits are mandatory and regularly sell out 6 to 8 months beforehand. Please note that the trail is closed for maintenance every year during the month of February. For more information on planning your trip, check out our the Inca Trail guide.

2. The Salkantay Trek

Hike Overview

As the most popular alternative to the classic Inca Trail, the Salkantay Trek offers a journey of dramatic contrasts and breathtaking mountain scenery. The route takes you into the shadow of the glaciated, 6,271-meter Salkantay peak before descending through changing climates into the lush warmth of the high jungle, or ‘ceja de selva’.

Key Stats

• Duration: 5 days / 4 nights (standard)
• Distance: Approx. 74 km / 46 miles
• Difficulty: Challenging
• Max Elevation: 4,630 m / 15,190 ft (Salkantay Pass)

Best For

Scenery lovers, adventurous hikers, and those who couldn’t get an Inca Trail permit.

Highlights

• Stunning close-up views of the snow-capped Salkantay and Humantay peaks.
• The turquoise waters of Humantay Lake.
• The dramatic shift in scenery from alpine tundra to lush, tropical coffee plantations.

Practical Tip

Proper acclimatization is essential for your enjoyment and safety, particularly due to the high altitude of the Salkantay Pass reached on the second day. We strongly recommend you spend at least two to three full days in Cusco before beginning the trek.

3. The Ausangate Trek

Hike Overview

This is a high-altitude circuit that circumnavigates the sacred Ausangate mountain, one of the most important ‘Apus’ (mountain gods) in Inca cosmology. The trek is defined by its raw, remote beauty, passing through landscapes painted with vibrant mineral hues and offering genuine interaction with local Quechua communities who maintain a traditional pastoral lifestyle.

Key Stats

• Duration: 4-6 days
• Distance: Approx. 70 km / 43 miles
• Difficulty: Challenging to Strenuous
• Max Elevation: Approx. 5,200 m / 17,060 ft (Palomani Pass)

Best For

Serious trekkers, photographers, and those seeking remote wilderness and cultural authenticity.

Highlights

• The vibrant, mineral-rich colors of Rainbow Mountain (Vinicunca) and the Red Valley.
• Glaciers, herds of llamas and alpacas, and pristine turquoise lakes.
• Experiencing the raw power and spirituality of a sacred Andean Apu.

Practical Tip

Be prepared for the consistently high altitude throughout this trek; it is not suitable for beginners. The nights are extremely cold, often dropping well below freezing, so high-quality, four-season camping equipment and appropriate layered clothing are essential.

4. The Lares Trek

Hike Overview

The Lares Trek offers a deep and authentic dive into contemporary Andean culture. This route is less about archaeological sites and more about people. It winds through traditional farming and weaving villages, offering unique opportunities to interact with local families and understand their way of life in the high mountains. Many who visit this region also explore Cusco.

Key Stats

• Duration: 3-4 days
• Distance: Approx. 33 km / 21 miles
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Max Elevation: 4,650 m / 15,255 ft (Pachacutec Pass)

Best For

Travelers interested in cultural immersion, families, and those seeking a less crowded alternative trek. For those looking for more challenging treks near Cusco, consider the Salkantay Trek.

Highlights

• Visiting remote Andean villages and learning about traditional weaving techniques.
• Interacting with local Quechua-speaking communities and their children.
• Soaking in the Lares hot springs at the beginning or end of the trek.

Practical Tip

If you wish to give something to the local children you meet, we recommend small and useful gifts such as notebooks, pens, or pencils rather than sweets. Always ask for permission before taking photographs of people, as a sign of respect.

5. The Choquequirao Trek

Hike Overview

Often referred to as the “Sacred Sister” of Machu Picchu, Choquequirao is a vast and remote Inca citadel. The trek to reach it is notoriously difficult, involving a steep descent and ascent of the Apurímac Canyon. The incredible reward for this effort is exploring these expansive, largely unexcavated ruins in near-total solitude.

Key Stats

• Duration: 4-5 days (out-and-back)
• Distance: Approx. 64 km / 40 miles
• Difficulty: Strenuous
• Max Elevation: 3,050 m / 10,006 ft (at the ruins, but involves a massive canyon descent and ascent)

Best For

Hardcore hikers, archaeology enthusiasts, and those wanting a true off-the-beaten-path adventure. For a different but equally rewarding adventure, consider the Ausangate Trek.

Highlights

• Having a massive, spectacular Inca citadel almost entirely to yourself.
• The breathtaking, steep descent and ascent into and out of the Apurímac Canyon.
• The potential for spotting Andean condors soaring on thermal updrafts.

Practical Tip

Do not underestimate the physical challenge of this trek. It is a relentless “down-then-up” journey in both directions. The floor of the canyon can be extremely hot during the day, so it is imperative to carry and drink plenty of water.

6. The Santa Cruz Trek

Hike Overview

Located in the Cordillera Blanca near Huaraz, this is the region’s most popular and accessible multi-day trek. It is a showcase of classic high-Andean scenery, guiding you through wide-open valleys, past dozens of jagged, snow-dusted peaks, and alongside brilliant blue, glacier-fed lakes.

Key Stats

• Duration: 4 days / 3 nights
• Distance: Approx. 50 km / 31 miles
• Difficulty: Moderate to Challenging
• Max Elevation: 4,750 m / 15,584 ft (Punta Union Pass)

Best For

Mountain lovers, landscape photographers, and those wanting a classic alpine-style trek.

Highlights

• The panoramic view from the Punta Union pass, surrounded by peaks like Taulliraju and Alpamayo.
• Camping beside the stunning, turquoise Laguna Jatuncocha.
• The dramatic, jagged skyline of the Cordillera Blanca.

Practical Tip

The ideal window for this trek is during the Andean dry season, from May to September. As with all high-altitude treks in this region, proper acclimatization in Huaraz for a few days before you start is non-negotiable for your health and enjoyment.

7. The Huayhuash Circuit

Hike Overview

Widely considered one of the world’s premier alpine treks, the Huayhuash Circuit is a long and demanding expedition. It presents a continuous panorama of spectacular views, crossing multiple high passes with vistas of sheer, ice-fluted peaks and pristine lakes. Its dramatic scenery was made famous by the survival story recounted in the book “Touching the Void”.

Key Stats

• Duration: 8-12 days
• Distance: Approx. 120 km / 75 miles
• Difficulty: Strenuous
• Max Elevation: Over 5,000 m / 16,404 ft at several passes

Best For

Highly experienced, fit, and well-acclimatized trekkers seeking the ultimate alpine challenge.

Highlights

• The iconic viewpoint of the three lakes (Lagunas Carhuacocha, Siula, and Quesillococha).
• Crossing multiple high passes, each offering a new, breathtaking panorama.
• The sheer remoteness and feeling of being deep in the high Andes.

Practical Tip

This is a serious high-altitude expedition that should not be attempted independently. A certified guide and support team with mules are essential for safety and logistics. You must be physically and mentally prepared for extreme and rapidly changing weather conditions at high altitude.

8. The Colca Canyon Trek

Hike Overview

This trek is an experience of immense scale, taking you deep into one of the world’s deepest canyons. The journey involves a challenging descent to the canyon floor, a night in a simple, rustic village in a surprising oasis, and a strenuous climb back out, all while surrounded by the towering canyon walls and with the chance of seeing majestic condors.

Key Stats

• Duration: 2-3 days
• Distance: Approx. 20 km / 12 miles
• Difficulty