Hiking in Peru: The Ultimate Guide

December 08 • 2023

Considering hiking in Peru? From the legendary Inca Trail to the sacred slopes of Ausangate Mountain, exploring the glorious landscapes of this South American gem is a common inclusion on many bucket lists.

However, between the stealthy selection of route options, significant altitude changes, and fluctuating temperatures, there is a lot to consider when planning such an adventure. In this article, we share a complete guide to hiking holidays in Peru to help you create the most magnificent adventure in this remarkable part of the world.

Where to Go Trekking in Peru

Incredible views of Machu Picchu

1. Cusco and the Surrounding Area

The city of Cusco in southeastern Peru is widely recognised as one of the best bases for trekking in South America. This region offers a diverse range of trails, catering to everyone from novice hikers to seasoned enthusiasts seeking high-altitude challenges.

The landscape is amazing, encompassing snow-capped mountains, glacial lagoons and high jungles.

Sacred Valley is one of the best areas to start in while hiking in Peru as it offers incredible scenery and has one of the lowest altitudes.

Afterwards, you can move onto tackling the tougher routes such as Salkantay or the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu. Then, you may wish to cap off your hiking trip in Peru by ticking off the legendary Rainbow Mountain, or – even better – the lesser know Ausangate Trail.

Cordillera Blanca; glacial lakes and dramatic skylines

2. The Cordillera Blanca

When it comes to hiking in Peru, the hidden gems can be found in Huaraz. This city is located deep in the Andes Mountain range and has the spectacular snow-capped peaks of the Cordillera Blanca range forming its dramatic eastern skyline.

You’ll find walks for those of all skill levels here, including everything from one-day treks to week-long expeditions. The Cordillera Blanca range boasts excellent hiking trails and an incredible landscape. In fact, it is the most extensive tropical ice-covered mountain range in the world.

While there is a wide range of route options available, the range of high-altitude trails and the extreme weather conditions make this region particularly popular amongst experienced hikers. With altitudes soaring beyond 19,680 feet at times, it promises a thrilling adventure for confident trekkers.

Get away from the crowds and witness the jagged stark beauty of Colca Canyon

3. Arequipa & Colca Canyon

Arequipa is a relatively unknown destination for hiking holidays in Peru. After spending time in the “White City” itself, you can travel around three hours to one of the biggest canyons in the world. At 66,000 feet deep, Colca Canyon is absolutely enormous. Taking a privately-guided expedition led by a local expert enhances your overall experience, and ensures that your trip is as safe as possible.

The 4 Best Treks in Peru

Inca Trail; moderate-difficult hike. You will need a decent base level of fitness

1. Inca Trail

Many dream of hiking the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu in Peru. The route serves up ancient history alongside breathtaking landscapes, promising an unforgettable experience. It leads walkers along the magnificent Sacred Valley of Peru, by centuries-old settlements and the glorious peaks of the Andes before reaching the legendary ancient Incan city of Machu Picchu.

We offer a private tour for travellers looking to tick hike the famous Inca trail off their Peru bucket list while steering away from the crowds and staying in quieter campsites. It takes you on a peaceful journey to all of the most incredible ruins along the Inca Trail, such as LLactapata, Sayacmarca, Phuyupatamarca, Runkuraqay and Winawayna.

This private tour of the Inca Trail then leads through the legendary Sun Gate. Otherwise known as Inti Punk, it is the entrance to Machu Picchu, one of the most fascinating archaeological sites in the world. During this segment of the journey, you’ll be walking in the footsteps of Inca emperors and nobles.

Machu Picchu is awe-inspiring in itself; a recognised UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the New Seven Wonders of the World.

How Hard is it to Hike Peru’s Inca Trail?

The Inca Trail spans 43 kilometres across four intense days. It is considered a moderately difficult trail, with plenty of steep sections and an elevation nearing 14,000 feet in places which can make it quite challenging.

The Inca Trail is one of the places where you cannot go hiking in Peru without a guide. This regulation is in place both to protect the trail and for the safety of walkers. As one of the most popular places for a guided hiking vacation in Peru, you will need to book a tour several months in advance.

The Salkantay Trek; the less-travelled route to Machu Picchu. Get away from the tourist crowd

2. Salkantay Trek

The Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu is another of the best hiking trails in Peru. The route is named in homage to the 20,574-foot-high Salkantay Mountain, the highest peak in the Vilcabamba mountain range in the Peruvian Andes.

The trek provides a somewhat less-travelled route to Machu Picchu compared to the Inca Trail. However, it remains a highly sought-after choice, standing as the second-most popular trail to the ancient city in the country, closely trailing the legendary Inca Trail.

It takes you through stunning landscapes including the cloud forest and Humantay Lake, before leading you to Machu Picchu. Along the way, you’ll encounter alpacas in their natural habitat. The region also boasts natural hot springs where you can rejuvenate and soothe your tired muscles.

The Salkantay trek offers a deep dive into authentic Andean culture. Commencing in the Peruvian city of Cusco. From here, you will depart on a multi-day adventure to the citadel of Machu Picchu.

How Hard is the Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu?

The Salkantay Trek is one of the best hiking trails in Peru but it is also quite demanding. It is approximately 74 kilometres long and reaches an altitude of 15,026 feet at its highest point, making it better suited to travellers who have done multi-day treks before.

While it can certainly be challenging, it does reward you with incredible vistas over the likes of Santa Teresa hot springs, Apacheta Pass and Humantay Lagoon. If you enjoy full-day treks amid stunning natural landscapes, this is one of the best hiking trails in Peru and a spectacular choice.

The Ausangate Trail; opt for a touch of local luxury and stay in Andean Lodges along the way

3. Ausangate Trail

For those organising hiking trips in Peru, The Ausangate route is a brilliant choice. Ausangate Mountain is one of the highest peaks in the country at 6,372 metres high. It held profound significance for the Incas and remains a sacred site for the Quechua people today.

Known locally as “the father of all mountains”, the peak is believed to be a spirit (Apu) that protects people and the surrounding mountain ranges. If you’re looking for a hiking trail in Peru that takes you close to the mountain deities, this could be the route for you.

Along the Ausangate Trail, you can opt to stay at luxury Andean lodges, providing an opportunity to authentically engage with the local life, knowledge, and culture of the area. These high-altitude homes serve as blissful retreats, allowing you to rest and recuperate during your journey.

Experience breathtaking landscapes on a guided hiking trip along the Ausangate Trail. Picture beautiful scenes of snow-capped peaks, glaciers, and vibrant mountain lakes. You may even be able to see the glorious Rainbow Mountain, a striking geological peak famed for its multicoloured stripes.

How Hard is the Ausangate Trek?

The Ausangate Trek is considered to be one of the more strenuous of Peru’s hiking trails. It is a high-altitude route stretching 70 kilometres, with an average altitude of over 13,000 feet. Classified as Grade C, you can expect to spend between 6 and 7 hours hiking per day.

It offers a unique opportunity to go on a hiking trip in Peru that takes you to little-visited, community-based areas that are not centred around the Inca ruins.

The unique and vivid colours of the Rainbow Mountain Trek

4. Rainbow Mountain

The vibrant slopes of Rainbow Mountain mark one of the most unique and beautiful places to go hiking in Peru. Not your average peak, it is striped in turquoise, lavender, bronze and gold. Its unique colouring can be traced to the sediment of minerals throughout the area.

As such a fascinating sight, it comes as no surprise that hiking the famous Rainbow Mountain in Peru is one of the most popular things to do in the country. It has a fast ascent from Cusco and reaches a staggering 17,000 feet above sea level.

Given how rapidly it ascends, it is very common to experience at least minor altitude sickness when hiking Rainbow Mountain. Be sure to take it slow and check in with yourself to see if you are showing any symptoms of altitude sickness.

The weather can also change very quickly on this peak so bring clothing and equipment for all conditions.

How Hard is the Rainbow Mountain Trek?

Rainbow Mountain reaches an altitude of 17,000 feet and is considered a moderate to difficult trek in Peru. Yet, it’s also one of the country’s most popular trails. If you are looking to complete Rainbow Mountain, be sure to take precautions and look after yourself.

Those who do complete the route are rewarded with awe-inspiring views over the mountain’s multicoloured slopes, along with an undeniable sense of achievement for tackling the famously challenging peak.

Discuss with our team the best time to trek to avoid the masses, yet still witness the beauty of nature

Top Tips for Hiking in Peru

Give Yourself Time to Acclimatise to the Altitude

Altitude is one of the most important things to consider when planning Peru hiking trips. An effective strategy for preventing altitude sickness is acclimatisation—gradually adapting to higher altitudes before undertaking treks.

We recommend beginning your holiday by spending a few days in a city close to your route. For example, if you’re gearing up for hiking tours to Machu Picchu through the Salkantay Trek, first explore the nearby city of Cusco.

If you are planning to complete multiple routes during your Peru hiking trip, organise your itinerary so it begins at the lowest altitudes and gradually works up to the highest. Taking the time to acclimatise significantly reduces the likelihood of getting ill when completing high-altitude treks in Peru.

Be Prepared for Temperature Changes

Hiking at high altitudes in Peru often involves dramatic changes in temperature, particularly between day and night. Pleasant daytime temperatures often mean you can trek comfortably in short-sleeved t-shirts and shorts.

However, by the late afternoon, temperatures tend to dramatically shift and leave you extremely cold. Be prepared for these fluctuating conditions. Pack layer-able clothing and breathable fabrics and always have a waterproof jacket at the ready.

Best Time of Year to Go Hiking in Peru

If you’re planning a walking holiday in Peru, you are likely wondering when the best time to go is. May to September is often viewed as the best time for hiking in the country. This period is peak walking season in Peru, with low rainfall and cooler daytime temperatures.

For those of you looking for the quietest time to go hiking in the country, you may prefer to visit between November and March. However, this is not considered the best time for high mountain trekking in Peru, as you have to contend with higher levels of rainfall.

The Inca Trail even closes in February. If you are content with these shortfalls, then this can otherwise be quite a pleasant time to hike in Peru. The trails are quiet and peaceful, prices are lower and the wilderness is lush and flourishing.

Summary

As you can see, there are numerous factors to consider when travelling to Peru for a hiking trip. While this may add some complexity to the planning process, it’s all made worth your while the moment you experience the country’s stunning magnificent landscapes.

Thinking of booking a hiking trip to Peru? Take a look at our Peru Active Adventure which includes several hiking options that take you to local communities, the Inca ruins of the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu, and begin turning your dream hiking holiday into a reality.