Discover the Famous Treks in Peru: Machu Picchu & Beyond
Embark on an unforgettable adventure through the breathtaking landscapes and rich culture of Peru. Discover famous treks in Peru. Start planning your journey today!
Peru is the ultimate spot for hiking lovers. It has numerous iconic and hidden trails. These let you discover the stunning natural beauty and deep culture of the country. There’s the famous Inca Trail leading to Machu Picchu. Then, you have the incredible Salkantay trek, Choquequirao Trek, and Ausangate treks. This South American gem is full of adventures you won’t forget.
This guide will help you choose the best trek in Peru. It caters to all, from those looking for a tough, multi-day adventure to easier day hikes. Peru’s options are diverse and perfect for any kind of explorer.
Key Takeaways
- Peru boasts a diverse array of trekking routes, from the iconic Inca Trail to lesser-known but equally stunning options.
- The Salkantay, Choquequirao, and Ausangate treks offer unique experiences and challenge levels to suit a range of hikers.
- Many treks in Peru provide the opportunity to explore Inca ruins, snow-capped mountains, and lush river valleys.
- Sustainable tourism practices and expert local guides enhance the safety and cultural immersion of trekking adventures in Peru.
- Peru’s favorable climate and diverse landscapes make it an ideal destination for trekking enthusiasts year-round.
Iconic Machu Picchu and the Inca Trail
The journey on the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu is a famous trek. It lets hikers experience what the Inca people did. They get to the well-known “Lost City of the Incas.” Cusco, Peru’s cultural capital, sees about 2 million visitors yearly. This makes it a top spot for travelers. The Incas made extensive roads in their empire. One of the most famous is the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu.
Huayna Picchu – A Daring Climb
On this path, thrill-seekers can try the bold Huayna Picchu climb. It goes to the top of a striking mountain above Machu Picchu.
Machu Picchu Mountain – Challenging yet Rewarding
There’s also the Machu Picchu Mountain hike for those wanting a big view. It lets hikers see the Machu Picchu ruins from the mountain’s highest point. This trek needs a fair fitness level and some hiking know-how.
Inti Punku (Sun Gate) Hike
The Inti Punku hike takes about an hour and is moderate. It gives hikers a wide view of Machu Picchu. This path is a nice walk for people looking for a less tough hike.
The Iconic Inca Bridge
The Inca Bridge trail leads to a key Inca structure. It used to have logs making a bridge across a gap. This bridge was an escape route for the Incas. Though you can’t cross it today, it’s a favorite for many hikers just to see.
The Classic Salkantay Trek
The [salkantay trek] is a well-loved trail in Peru, a great option if the Inca Trail is fully booked. It lets hikers see beautiful sceneries like the Salkantay Mountain. This adventure lasts 5 days, leading through valleys, passes, and jungles. It ends with a visit to the famous Machu Picchu. This trek is 74 km long, usually taking 4-5 days, with the last day being the Machu Picchu visit. The highest point is 4,580 meters. The toughest part is the climb on the second day, which can take about 9 hours. Despite that, the trek is seen as moderate, good for anyone in good shape and with some hiking experience.
Salkantay Trekking offers several options. For example, the Classic Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu costs US$520 for 4 Days/3 Nights. A longer option is the Short Salkantay Trek for 6 Days/5 Nights at US$900. You can also combine the Salkantay Trek with a shorter Inca Trail Trek for US$1100, lasting 7 Days/6 Nights. The Salkantay & Inca Trail Classic to Machu Picchu is a shorter version, lasting 4 Days/3 Nights at US$780. Finally, the Classic Inca Trail to Machu Picchu is 5 Days/4 Nights and costs US$795.
The Salkantay Trek is a challenge, especially with the high altitudes. So, it’s not the best for those who might get altitude sickness. However, it’s always open, making it a year-round option for trek lovers.
Trek Option | Duration | Price |
Classic Salkantay Trek | 4 Days/3 Nights | US$520 |
Short Salkantay Trek | 6 Days/5 Nights | US$900 |
Salkantay Trek & Inca Trail Short | 7 Days/6 Nights | US$1100 |
Salkantay & Inca Trail Classic | 4 Days/3 Nights | US$780 |
Classic Inca Trail | 5 Days/4 Nights | US$795 |
Humantay & Salkantay Trek | 2 Days/1 Night | US$230 |
Salkantay Trekking has over 15 years of experience. The company works with more than 200 local partners and has organized thousands of trips.
Short but Sweet: Salkantay Trek Variations
Besides the classic Salkantay Trek, you can choose from many shorter options. These give trekkers a quick way to see the beautiful Salkantay route. For instance, the Salkantay Trek Challenge is a tough 3-day trek. It has a steep climb to the Salkantay Pass. If you want something easier, the 2-day Humantay & Salkantay Trek takes you to the stunning Humantay Lake and the Salkantay scenery. It’s a great way to see a lot in a short time.
Salkantay Trek Challenge
The Salkantay Trek Challenge is a tough, 3-day adventure. It includes a hard climb to the Salkantay Pass. This option is great for fit travelers wanting to see the Andes’ beauty quickly.
Humantay & Salkantay Trek
The Humantay & Salkantay Trek is perfect for those who want to see the Humantay Lake and Salkantay’s landscapes. In just 2 days, it lets you enjoy Peru’s nature without a long hike. It’s a quick yet memorable adventure.
Choquequirao: The Sister City of Machu Picchu
Machu Picchu is famed in Peru, but Choquequirao, called the “Cradle of Gold,” is its lesser-known sister. The Choquequirao Trek takes eight days. It lets adventurers discover this stunning Inca citadel. Set in the Andes, it’s surrounded by amazing mountain views. The trek mixes moderate and tough paths. It suits hikers with fitness and some experience.
Choquequirao sits 3000m above sea level, lower than Cusco. The Choquequirao trek is hard. It goes down steep trails to the Apurimac river, then back up. This challenge comes even at its lower altitude. The trek can last 3, 4, or 5 days. Avoid doing it in the rainy season from December to March. This time might have landslides. It’s safer to go on Choquequirao tours in months like November and April. Make sure the weather and trails are safe then.
Apus Peru made the first 9-day Choquequirao to Machu Picchu trek. It’s a top choice for adventurers, history fans, and those seeking inner peace. Apart from the classic 4-day Choquequirao hike, longer ones to Vitcos or from Choquequirao to Machu Picchu are available. These offer a deeper look into Incan culture. The Huanipaca Choquequirao Hike is an alternative. It’s different from the usual 4-day Choquequirao trek.
Normally, Choquequirao sees 10-20 visitors daily. Machu Picchu, on the other hand, welcomes 5,000 daily. Even in its busiest days, Choquequirao gets fewer visitors – 50-60. This is less than Machu Picchu. The Choquequirao trek is perfect for those wanting a more quiet hike. It’s less crowded than the Inca Trail or Salkantay Trek. Choquequirao is up higher, at 3,050m. Machu Picchu is lower, at 2,430m. This makes Choquequirao colder.
Roxner Cardenas says the Choquequirao trek to Machu Picchu is hard. It has big changes in altitude, from over 3,000m to above 4,000m. The trek is about 62 miles long (100km) and takes 9 days. You’ll see both Inca sites and various ecosystems. Choquequirao allows more freedom than Machu Picchu. You can walk around more freely there. Trips to Choquequirao often include camping at special spots. These campsites offer great views of Choquequirao and its mountains. The trek’s route takes you through several days and long distances. You’ll pass many campsites and Inca ruins.
Ausangate: Trekking the Sacred Mountain
The Ausangate Trek takes about six days and leads through the Vilcanota Mountain Range. It’s a journey to one of the Andes’ sacred mountains, Ausangate. This mountain stands at nearly 6400m, the highest in the Cusco area. You’ll cross the Abra Palomani Pass at almost 17,000 feet, seeing amazing peaks. The path also lets you enjoy the Pacchanta Hot Springs and a Pachamanca feast cooked in the earth.
Abra Palomani Pass
The Ausangate trek lasts five days and is roughly 100 km southeast of Cusco. It starts at Tinki. The journey goes over passes nearly 5000m high. At the Abra Palomani Pass, you’ll see jaw-dropping sights of the peaks around you.
Pacchanta Hot Springs
After a tough day’s hike, you’ll visit the Pacchanta Hot Springs. These baths are filled with mineral-rich, warm water. They’re perfect for relaxing and healing sore muscles. It’s a great stop before moving on.
Traditional Pachamanca Feast
The Ausangate Trek ends with a special meal, the Pachamanca feast. It’s a unique Andean way of cooking, where food is buried and slow-cooked. This feast lets you dive into the local food and culture after your big journey.
famous treks in Peru: Beyond the Classics
In Peru, there’s more to explore than the famous Inca Trail and Salkantay Trek. The Vilcabamba/Espiritu Pampa Trek is a 7-day adventure through various landscapes. It includes lush valleys, high jungles, and areas that are almost desert-like. Along the way, you can see hidden Inca ruins. There are also the Inca Quarry Trek and the Lares Trek, offering unique experiences.
Vilcabamba/Espiritu Pampa Trek
This 7-day trek covers about 44 miles and includes heights from 1,945 to 12,664 feet. It leads through rich valleys, dense jungles, and dry places. Plus, you get to visit Inca ruins that are not well-known.
The Inca Quarry Trek
The Inca Quarry Trek is unique, highlighting the quarries where the Incas cut their stones. It’s not as famous but very interesting. On this hike, you’ll see beautiful Andes views and learn a lot about the local culture.
Lares Trek
The Lares Trek is a 4-day hike offering an off-the-beaten-path experience. It goes through Andean villages, letting you meet locals and see their way of life. The scenery is striking, with glacial lakes and snowy mountains.
Best Day Hikes in Peru
Peru offers many great day hikes in addition to its longer treks. These day hikes are perfect for getting a quick look at Peru’s stunning natural sights. You can visit places like the rainbow mountain, laguna 69, and humantay lake in just one day.
Rainbow Mountain
The hike to Rainbow Mountain is a favorite single-day trip. Trekkers reach an impressive 5,020 meters high. There, they see a unique mountain with many colors. The journey offers a view of an amazing natural wonder.
Laguna 69
Don’t miss the hike to Laguna 69, a stunning blue lake in the Andes. It’s a long day, taking about 10-11 hours. You’ll climb to 4,550 meters and see beautiful snow-covered peaks.
Humantay Lake
The walk to Humantay Lake from Cusco is quite famous. It’s a short hike of about 2 hours with a high altitude of 4,200 meters. Starting at Soraypampa, it’s a convenient way to enjoy Peru’s nature in a day.
Planning Your Peruvian Trekking Adventure
When planning a trek in Peru, choosing the season wisely is key. The dry season, between May to September, is perfect for walking. During this time, the weather is nice, and the trails are easier to walk. On the other hand, the wet season, from November to April, has its own beauty.
This season brings lush, green views and fewer people. Besides, trekkers should think about their route’s conditions and difficulty to pick the best time. This way, your trek will be safer and more fun.
To have a good time hiking in Peru, picking the right gear is vital. Make sure to bring waterproof clothes, strong hiking boots, and a backpack for your stuff. Don’t forget a water bottle, snacks, and sunblock. If needed, pack your medicines too. Also, carry warm clothes because it can get chilly, especially in the Andes.
For short hikes in Peru, you can go alone. But, for longer treks, getting a local guide is smart. Guides offer tips, help keep you safe, and share interesting facts about the area. They add to the cultural learning of your trip by telling stories about the place’s history and traditions.
Preserving Peru’s Natural Wonders
Exploring Peru’s incredible natural scenes comes with a big responsibility. It’s vital to follow a “Leave No Trace” mindset. This involves taking all your litter with you and being gentle with the wildlife. It’s also important to reduce the harm you cause to the land and use water wisely. Make sure not to harm any plants or rocks on your journey.
Leave No Trace
Walking through Peru gives you a chance to help the local people. You can do this by employing guides and teams from the area. It supports them and gives you a rich cultural experience. Buying local products and interacting with locals also spreads the benefits of tourism fairly.
Supporting Local Communities
Peru’s mountain views, like Machu Picchu and Inca Trail, are famous worldwide. Nearly all trekkers, about 98%, pick the Inca Trail. Yet, there are other amazing routes like Salkantay and Rainbow Mountain. The Cordillera Blanca and Huayhuash are top for trekking in the world.
The Andes of Peru have two seasons. The sunny time spans mid-April to November, and the rain season covers December to March. In Cusco, temperatures can be as low as 31.5°F (-.3°C) in July and as high as 68.5°F (20.3°C) in October. Rain changes, from 3mm in dry months to 154mm in January.
The Huascarán and Manú National Parks are celebrated worldwide. The Nor Yauyos-Cochas Reserve is near Lima and holds Sima Pumacocha, a very deep cave. The Salinas and Aguada Blanca Reserve is a key place for alpacas and rare birds. Manú Park has over 1,000 bird types, including rare ones like scarlet macaw.
Rainbow Mountain, or Vinicunca, gets its bright colors from mixed minerals under the sun. The Andes are alive with animals like spectacled bears and rare plants. The flamingos find their home in the Salinas and Aguada Blanca Reserve.
Conclusion
Peru is perfect for those who love to hike. It has something for everyone — from beginners to experts. You can take the famous Inca Trail to Machu Picchu. It’s a 26-mile trek that takes 4 days, with its highest point at 13,828 feet. The level of difficulty is just right for many. Or you might prefer exploring Salkantay, Choquequirao, or Ausangate. There’s so much natural beauty and history to see.
To really enjoy your trip, make sure to plan well and bring the right equipment. Also, always show respect for the places you visit and their people. For instance, the Salkantay Trek lasts 5 days. It goes up to 15,091 feet and is not too hard to do. Then, there’s the Ausangate Trek, also 5 days long. It goes as high as 17,060 feet and is known for being tough.
Peru gives you lots of choices. Like the 2-day Inca Trail that is quite doable, covering 9.3 miles and getting to 9,022 feet. Then there’s the Lares Trek. This one is a bit longer, lasting 3 days. It reaches 15,255 feet and is at a moderate level of challenge. No matter your hiking skill, Peru welcomes you to discover its natural and cultural riches.
FAQ
What are the most famous trekking routes in Peru?
The most famous trekking routes in Peru are well-known. They include the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu and the Salkantay. Also, the Choquequirao, Ausangate, Lares, and Santa Cruz treks are popular.
What are the highlights of the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu?
The Inca Trail to Machu Picchu is very special. You can walk where the Incas did, and see Machu Picchu. Highlights include the Huayna Picchu hike and the Machu Picchu Mountain hike. Don’t miss the Inti Punku (Sun Gate) and the Inca Bridge.
What makes the Salkantay Trek a popular alternative to the Inca Trail?
The Salkantay Trek is a top alternate to the Inca Trail. It’s loved for its beautiful landscapes and the Salkantay Mountain. This trek takes you through Andean valleys, over alpine passes, and into the high jungle. It ends with a visit to Machu Picchu.
What are some of the variations of the Salkantay Trek?
There are different ways to do the Salkantay Trek. For example, there’s the Salkantay Trek Challenge, a 3-day tough hike. It includes a steep climb to the Salkantay Pass. And there’s the 2-day Humantay & Salkantay Trek, which shows you Humantay Lake and Salkantay’s beautiful landscapes.
What makes the Choquequirao Trek unique?
The Choquequirao Trek is special because it takes you to Choquequirao. This site is called the “Cradle of Gold”. The 8-day hike is a mix of easy and hard, good for those who are fit and have some hiking experience.
What are the highlights of the Ausangate Trek?
The Ausangate Trek is outstanding for exploring a sacred mountain, Ausangate. It includes high passes, amazing views, and a visit to the Pacchanta Hot Springs. You’ll also enjoy a traditional Pachamanca feast.
What other famous treks can be found in Peru?
Besides the Inca Trail and Salkantay Trek, Peru has many other famous treks. For example, there’s the Vilcabamba/Espiritu Pampa Trek, the Inca Quarry Trek, and the Lares Trek. Each offers its own cultural and natural beauty.
What are some of the best day hikes in Peru?
For day hikes, Peru has some favorites. These include Rainbow Mountain, Laguna 69, and Humantay Lake. They provide amazing views and a shorter hiking experience.
What should I consider when planning a trekking adventure in Peru?
When planning a trek in Peru, think about the best time to go and what to pack. It’s vital to have a good guide, especially for long treks. Remember to leave no trace and help local people.