Explore the Best Hiking Trails in Peru: Snow-Capped Peaks to Tropical Forests

From the historic Inca paths to the snowy peaks of the Andes, Peru offers an abundance of trekking routes. Below is a curated list of some of the finest hikes you can explore during your visit to Peru.

The Inca Trail

The Camino Inca , the Inca Trail , undoubtedly stands out as one of the globe’s most iconic hiking routes. Spanning four days over a distance of 39 kilometers, this journey takes you past captivating archaeological ruins and diverse scenery, culminating in an awe-inspiring finish at Machu Picchu via Intipunku, also known as the Sun Gate. Given its challenging nature, proper preparation and fitness level are essential prerequisites. Additionally, reservations well ahead of time are necessary due to restricted visitor numbers.

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The Salkantay Trek

If avoiding large groups is your preference, then the Salkantay Trek could be an excellent choice for you. Spanning around 4 to 5 days, this journey offers breathtaking views across various terrains such as the awe-inspiring Salkantay Pass standing tall at 4,615 meters, verdant valleys teeming with life, and dense tropical jungles. Although notably tougher compared to the Inca Trail, this route provides a rewarding challenge. ends at Machu Picchu for an unforgettable journey away from well-trodden paths.

The Santa Cruz Trek

Close to the town of Huaraz lies the Santa Cruz Trek, which is essential for enthusiasts of mountain hikes. Spanning either three or four days, hikers have the opportunity to admire the breathtaking views of the Cordillera Blanca, a striking mountain range within the Andes featuring snowy summits and icy lakes. With a moderate difficulty level covering more than 50 kilometers, this trail is ideal for individuals seeking to delve into majestic alpine scenery.

Choquequirao

While not as well-known as Machu Picchu, Choquequirao stands as another Incan settlement tucked into the Andean mountains. The journey here takes between three to five days and presents considerable difficulty due to substantial variations in altitude. However, finishing this arduous hike rewards you with breathtaking vistas of steep gorges and ancient sites seldom visited by others. Thus, this lesser-traveled route provides an exclusive adventure off the beaten path.

The Ausangate Trek

For the more experienced among you, the Ausangate Trek is a demanding 5-7 day adventure around Mount Ausangate (6,384 m), one of Peru's highest peaks at a very high altitude. This trek takes you through a wide variety of landscapes, including colourful lakes, imposing glaciers and the famous Mountain of Seven Colours (Vinicunca).

The Colca Canyon

The Colca Canyon, among the deepest globally at approximately 3,400 meters, offers a remarkable 2 to 3-day hiking experience that blends breathtaking landscapes with rich cultural encounters. As you traverse this route, you might observe soaring condors overhead and explore quaint local communities nestled en route.

The editor’s advice

Hiking in Peru poses significant challenges, and adequate preparation is essential before setting off. Below are some useful suggestions to assist you in planning your journey: 1. Acclimatize properly to avoid altitude sickness. 2. Pack appropriate clothing for varying weather conditions. 3. Ensure you have sturdy footwear suitable for rugged terrain. 4. Carry sufficient water and high-energy snacks. 5. Familiarize yourself with basic first aid techniques. These guidelines should make your adventure smoother and safer.

• The ideal period for hiking in Peru is from May to September when it's the dry season.
• Adapting to the high elevation can pose a difficulty, so make sure to stay at your location for several days prior to starting out.
• Ultimately, anticipate significant fluctuations in temperature.
• Pack suitable attire along with a reliable backpack.