Peru is a country that is well-known for being home to one of the Seven Wonders of the World, Machu Picchu. Serendipitously, it is also a top destination for hiking enthusiasts! With its diverse landscapes consisting of the Andes mountains, Amazon rainforest, and coastline, Peru has a plethora of hiking trails for nature lovers to explore. Whether you're looking to explore ancient ruins, witness breathtaking views of Peru's beautiful landscape, or test your limits with a challenging trek, Peru has something for you! Here are some of the best hikes in Peru that will leave you completely mesmerised.
photo credit: Michael Brawn
1. Inca Trail: The iconic Inca Trail reaches 4215 m (13, 828 feet) and is a must-do hike for many explorers to Peru. This challenging four-day trek of 40 km (25 miles) leads hikers through stunning mountain scenery, high-altitude passes, and ancient ruins that were once the paths of Incan royalty. The highlight of this hike is, of course, the fascinating Machu Picchu, which provides an unforgettable reward at the end of the trail. Hikers can expect to be rewarded with jaw-dropping views of the surrounding mountains and valleys as they follow this ancient path through history.
photo credit: Flo P
2. Salkantay Trek: The Salkantay Trek is a less crowded option compared to the Inca Trail, yet it boasts equally breathtaking views at the maximum elevation of 4600 m (15,090 ft). This five-day 74 km (46 miles) hike traverses through the Andes mountains, including the Salkantay Pass, known for its stunning vistas. Along the way, hikers can marvel at snow-capped peaks, turquoise lakes, and vibrant flora and fauna. The trail culminates at Machu Picchu, merging two famous hikes in Peru into a single, unforgettable experience.
photo credit:Dionisio Manlio
3. Colca Canyon: The Colca Canyon is among the deepest canyons worldwide, with a depth of approximately 3270 m (10,728 ft). If you are a nature enthusiast, this path is perfect for you, as the area is abundant with exceptional wildlife, such as enormous Andean condors. Hikers will traverse a range of environments, from high-altitude mountains to rich valleys. This challenging but worthwhile two-day hike offers breathtaking sights of the canyon, including gorgeous terraces carved into the steep walls.
4. Huayna Picchu: The Huayna Picchu trail is taller than Machu Picchu by 360 m (1,180 ft) and offers hikers stunning views of the iconic site from above. Though it is challenging, the trail is enjoyable with steep climbs, narrow paths, and steep staircases. Upon reaching the summit, hikers will be amazed by the breathtaking views of the site, the surrounding valleys, and the Andes mountain range in the distance.
5. Santa Cruz Trek: The Santa Cruz Trek is a breathtaking four-day hike that takes visitors through the Cordillera Blanca, a region of the Peruvian Andes that is famous for its snow-capped peaks, turquoise lakes, and unique rock formations. The trail passes through remote Andean villages and takes hikers up to an altitude of 4,750 metres (15,580 feet), offering stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
photo credit:Sandy Ysamar Parodi Moncayo
6. Ausangate Trek: The Ausangate trek is a stunning and challenging five-day trek that ranges between 3,150 m (10,334 ft) to 5,120 m (16,800 ft) and takes hikers on a circular route around the Ausangate Mountain. The hike is known for its colourful mountains, glacial lakes, and hot springs. Along the way, you will pass through traditional Andean communities and encounter the friendly locals who reside in these remote parts of Peru. The highlight of the trek is the Rainbow Mountain, a monument of striking hue striations that make it an Instagram-worthy destination.
7. Huchuy Qosqo Trek: This is a two-day hike that takes hikers from the village of Lamay to the ancient Inca site of Huchuy Qosqo. The hike offers beautiful views of the Urubamba mountain range and takes visitors through traditional Andean communities where you can learn about their unique way of life. The highlight of the trek, however, is the Inca site of Huchuy Qosqo, a well-preserved ruin that dates back to the 15th century.
8. Choquequirao Trek: The Choquequirao Trek is a challenging eight-day hike that takes visitors to the ruins of Choquequirao, an Inca city that is often compared to its more famous counterpart of Machu Picchu. The trek is tough at a maximum elevation of 4,668 m (15,315 ft) and is 100 km (62 miles) long , with steep ascents and descents, but the reward is a breathtaking view of the ruins that are perched on a steep ridge overlooking the Apurimac River.
9. Huayhuash Trek: Embark on a 10-day adventure through the stunning Huayhuash mountain range with this trek, 5490 m (18,012 ft) high and 130 km (81 miles) long. It is located in the remote and breathtaking Peruvian Andes, offering hikers a chance to witness high altitude passes, turquoise lakes, and glaciers. Experienced hikers who love a challenge will find this trail to be a popular destination. The highlight of the trek is undoubtedly the towering peaks of Yerupaja, Siula Grande, and Huayhuash, which provide an unforgettable view.
10. Lares Trek: The Lares Trek is a four-day hike that takes visitors through the Lares Valley, an area that is rich in history, culture, and natural beauty. The trail takes hikers through traditional Andean communities where you can learn about the unique lifestyle of the local people. The highlight of the trek, however, is the hot springs at Lares, where you can soak in the therapeutic waters and relax after a challenging hike.
Peru is a dream destination for hikers and nature lovers. It offers a variety of trails with different intensities and scenery, catering to hikers' varied preferences and we hope this list of the best hikes in Peru inspires you to add some of these destinations to your itinerary for your next trip to Peru.
