Peru is a hiker’s paradise, offering some of the most breathtaking and diverse landscapes on Earth. From towering Andes to lush Amazon rainforests and otherworldly high-altitude lagoons, there are some incredible Peru hikes and treks that you need to add to your bucket list immediately.

Whether you’re dreaming of conquering the legendary Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, exploring the hues of Rainbow Mountain, or venturing off-the-beaten path to hidden gems, Peru delivers unforgettable experiences at every turn.

In this post, we’ll guide you through the best hikes and treks in Peru, ranging from day hikes to multi-day treks, showcasing the country’s natural wonders and cultural treasures along the way. Lace up your boots, it’s time to explore.

Best Hikes in Peru

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Peru Hiking Areas

Before we get started with the best hikes in Peru, let’s go over the different hiking areas in Peru. There are three main hiking areas in Peru – Cusco, Cordillera Blanca/Huaraz, and Arequipa.

Cusco region and the surrounding area include all the Machu Picchu hikes from day hikes to multi-day treks. If you embark on any hike in Peru, chances are it will be here first.

Cordillera Blanca/Huaraz is the most well known area for trekking. This is a great area for experienced hikers as you’ll have altitude and extreme weather conditions to deal with.

Arequipa is the gateway to Colca Canyon country. Think hot, desert, dry climate.

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    15 Peru Hikes & Treks to Add to Your Bucket List

    In no particular order these are some of the best treks and hikes in Peru that you won’t want to miss. 

    Multi-day Treks in Peru

    Treks in Peru

    Machu Picchu Peru

    Inca Trail | The Most Iconic Trek in Peru

    • 💪 Difficulty:  Moderate/Strenuous
    • ⏰ Duration: 4 Days
    • 🥾 Distance: 26 Miles
    • ⛰️ Peak Elevation: 13,828 feet
    • ⛰ Elevation Gain: 7,063 feet
    • 📍Peru Hiking Area: Cusco
    • 🦙 Highlights: The Sun Gate, Ancient Inca Ruins, & it’s Iconic.
    • ⚠️ Tickets Permits: Permits & guides required.

    Of course I can’t have a best hikes in Peru list without including the classic Inca Trail. The Inka Trail to Machu Picchu is by far the most famous trek in South America.

    I personally did not trek the Inca Trail because I opted for the Salkantay Trail instead, but I have very good friends that trekked the Inca Trail and it was everything and more. Here’s what you need to know.

    A permit is required to hike the Inca Trail, thus the only way to experience this trek is on a guided tour.  The Classic Inca Trail is considered a moderate/strenuous level hike. The average trek takes four days but it is possible to complete in three or five days.

    The entire trek is 26 miles in total that ends at the famous Sun Gate. You’ll trek up stone steps, past majestic mountains, and through thick cloud forests. If you are looking for a true pilgrimage, plan ahead for this hike in Peru.

    Book a Tour →

    The Salkantay Trek start of Day 2
    Salkantay Trek one of the best Peru Hikes

    Salkantay Trek | My Favorite Trek in Peru

    • 💪 Difficulty: Strenuous
    • ⏰ Duration: 4-5 Days
    • 🥾 Distance: 46 Miles
    • ⛰️ Peak Elevation:15,090 feet at Salkantay Pass
    • ⛰ Elevation Gain: Roughly 6,000 feet
    • 📍Peru Hiking Area: Cusco 
    • 🦙 Highlights: Snow-Capped Mountains, Remote Villages, & Views. 
    • ⚠️ Tickets Permits: No permits required.

    The Salkantay Trek is a 46 mile trail that takes you the alternative route to Machu Picchu. Unlike the classic Inca Trail, the Salkantay Trail doesn’t require a guide or permit, but of course you can always hire one.

    This Peru hike is considered to be one of the top 25 hikes in the world. If you are looking to go hiking in Peru, the Salkantay trail should be on the top of your list.

    The Salkantay Trek takes you through some of Peru’s most beautiful landscaped. Snow-capped peaks, free roaming horses, deep river beds, cascading waterfalls, a cloud forest, and, mesmerizing alpine lakes are just some of the natural beauty you’ll encounter.

    This trail is not for the casual hiker as this trek takes a lot of physical endurance, determination, and mental toughness. You’ll hit a maximum elevation of 15,090 feet at the Salkantay Pass. And if you’re hiking independently, you’ll want to pack light. as this is a long hike and high altitude trek.

    The Salkantay Trek to date is one of my biggest fetes in my hiking career. We even managed to do the Salkantay Trek without a guide, tent, reservations or any sort of training.  

    Book a Tour →

    🥾 If you are interested in trekking Salkantay independently check out these blog posts to help you on this adventure.

    What to Expect on the Salkantay Trek | Hiking without a Guide 

    17 Things to Know Before Trekking Salkantay 

    The Ultimate Salkantay Trek Packing List

    Hiking Colca Canyon
    Colca Canyon one of the best treks in Peru

    Colca Canyon

    • 💪 Difficulty: Challenging
    • ⏰ Duration:  Varies from 1 to 4 days
    • 🥾 Distance: 5-20 Miles
    • ⛰️ Peak Elevation: 10,826 feet in the town of Cabanaconde
    • ⛰ Elevation Gain: 4,000 feet from Sangalle to Cabanaconde
    • 📍Peru Hiking Area: Arequipa
    • 🦅 Highlights: Flying Condors, Hot Springs, & the Oasis
    • ⚠️ Tickets & Permits: $20 USD for Colca Canyon Tourist Ticket

    The Colca Canyon is one of the world’s second deepest canyons and one of the best ways to experience it is on a trek. At the deepest point, the Colca Canyon is twice as deep as the Grand Canyon.

    There are a handful of different routes you can take that traverse you past vast landscapes and small rural towns located deep within the canyon. Trekking routes vary in time from 2-4 days with a few overnights at the local villages you pass along the way.

    I personally hiked a 3 day 2 night trek through the Colca Canyon that totaled 15 miles. Overall the Colca Canyon Trek is pretty challenging no matter which route you choose. Your fitness level, pace, and route will contribute to the difficulty of the trek.

    All treks begin with a grueling descent into the canyon floor. Climbing out of the canyon is a steep climb, completely unshaded, and the high elevation makes it extremely difficult,

    The Colca Canyon was my second long trek in Peru and we also managed to trek Colca Canyon without a guide. The first night we stayed at a lodge on a cliff with hot springs near the river and the second night we stayed at the bottom of the canyon at a place called the oasis. 

    Book a Trek →

    🥾 If you are interested in trekking Colca Canyon independently check out these blog posts to help you on this adventure.

    3 Day, 2 Night Trekking Colca Canyon without a Guide

    Everything you Need to know about Trekking Colca Canyon

    Trek in Peru - Lares Trek

    Lares Trek

    • 💪 Difficulty: Moderate, with a focus on cultural immersion rather than physical challenge.
    • ⏰ Duration: 4 Days / 3 Nights
    • 🥾 Distance: About 20 Miles
    • ⛰️ Peak Elevation: 14,600 feet 
    • ⛰ Elevation Gain: About 4,000 Feet
    • 📍Peru Hiking Area: Cusco Region
    • 🦙 Highlights: Remote villages & Quechua-speaking communities, Hot Springs, & Scenic Landscapes
    • ⚠️ Permits: No permits required.

    Another one of Peru’s multi-day hikes is the Lares Trek. This is another alternative to the Inca Trail, offering a quieter and more culturally immersive journey through the Peruvian Andes.

    This trek takes you off the beaten path through traditional Quechua villages, where you can witness centuries-old customs, colorful textiles, and, warm hospitality. 

    Along the way, you’ll encounter stunning landscapes, glacial lakes, mountain scenery, and green valleys. With fewer crowds than other popular Peru treks, the Lares Trek provides a more intimate connection to the land and its people while still making your way towards Machu Picchu.

    Book a Trek →

    Huayhuash Trek | The Most Adventurous Trek in Peru

    • 💪 Difficulty: Challenging, this Circuit is Demanding
    • ⏰ Duration: 10–14 Days but shorter variations are available.
    • 🥾 Distance: 75–81 miles
    • ⛰️ Peak Elevation: 16,404 feet at Punta Cuyoc Pass
    • ⛰ Elevation Gain: About 32,800–39,370 feet of cumulative elevation gain over the entire trek.
    • 📍Peru Hiking Area: Cordillera Blanca
    • 💡 Highlights: Bucket List Trek for Adventurous Trekkers 
    • ⚠️ Tickets & Permits: Hire a Guide or Join an Organized Tour 

    The Huayhuash Circuit is one of the most breathtaking and challenging high-altitude treks in the world. The trek takes you around Cordillera Huayhuash, some of the most dramatic peaks in the Andes, including Yerupajá, the second-highest mountain in Peru.

    Unlike more popular treks in Peru, the Huayhuash Circuit is remote and sees fewer trekkers, making it a great choice for those seeking solitude and a truly unforgettable adventure. 

    The trek crosses 8-12 high mountain passes, with the highest point being Punta Cuyoc at 16,404 feet. The full circuit typically takes 10-14 days, depending on your route and covers 75-81 miles in total. 

    The Huayhaush Circtui is rated challenging, with steep ascents, high altitudes, and rugged terrain. It’s best suited for experienced trekkers. The trail is remote and poorly marked in some areas, so hiring a guide or joining an organized trek is recommended.

    Book a Trek →

    Choquequirao Trek in Peru

    Choquequirao Trek

    • 💪 Difficulty: Challenging
    • ⏰ Duration: 4 to 5 Days but can be 8 to 9 days if continuing to Machu Picchu
    • 🥾 Distance: About 71 Miles
    • ⛰️ Peak Elevation: 9,950 feet
    • ⛰ Elevation Gain: 5,030 feet
    • 📍Peru Hiking Area: Cusco & the Surrounding Region
    • 🦙 Highlights: The Remote Ruins of Choquequirao, Mountain & River Valley Views.
    • ⚠️ Tickets & Permits: No permits required.

    The Choquequirao Trek is an epic journey to one of Peru’s most remote and awe-inspiring archeological sites, often referred to as the “sister city” of Machu Picchu.

    This challenging trek takes you deep into the Andes Mountains, following steep trails that ascend and descend dramatic valleys, with stunning views of snow-capped mountains and the lush Apurimac River gorge.

    Spanning 4-5 days, the trek involves significant altitude change at Choquequirao itself. The site, still partially uncovered, is a sprawling Inca complex featuring agricultural terraces, ceremonial plazas, and intricate stonework.

    For an added challenge and adventure, you can extend the trek by continuing to Machu Picchu through longer and more challenging routes, making it a multi-week trek.

    Book a Trek →

    Ausangate Trek​

    • 💪 Difficulty: Challenging 
    • ⏰ Duration: 5-7 Days
    • 🥾 Distance: 43 Miles
    • ⛰️ Peak Elevation: 17,060 feet
    • ⛰ Elevation Gain: 13,120 to 16,400 feet over the course of the trek
    • 📍Peru Hiking Area: Cusco & the Sacred Valley
    • 🦙 Highlights: 5th Highest Peak in Peru
    • ⚠️ Tickets & Permits: No official permit, but local communities along the way charge small entry fees. Expect to pay 20-30 soles at these points 

    The Ausangate Trek is one of the most spectacular treks in Peru, known for its dramatic landscapes, glacial lakes, and of course Ausangate Mountain – the fifth highest peak in Peru sitting at 20,945 feet. 

    The trek loops around Ausangate massif, and Rainbow Mountain or Red Valley are often included as optional highlights on this trek. Trekkers will pass by numerous lakes and pass through traditional Quechua-speaking villages, where locals herd alpacas and llamas. 

    This Peru trek features multiple high passes, the highest being Punta Palomino, which reaches an altitude of 17,060 feet. There’s even a night where you’ll stay near natural thermal baths, a welcomed reward after days of trekking through rugged terrain.

    The full circuit takes 5-7 days, depending on the pace & route, and covers 43 miles. The trek includes a cumulative elevation gain of 13,120-16,400, with significant daily ascents and descents. 

    Rated as challenging, the Ausangate Trek requires excellent fitness and prior high-altitude trekking experience. The high passes and thin air make it demanding.

    Spend time in Cusco to acclimatize before starting the trek. While it’s possible to trek independently, the remote nature and lack of signage make hiring a guide or tour company advisable. 

    Gran Vilaya Trek

    • 💪 Difficulty: Moderate to Difficult 
    • ⏰ Duration: 4-6 Days
    • 🥾 Distance: 41.6 Miles
    • ⛰️ Peak Elevation: 11,483 feet
    • 📍Peru Hiking Area: Amazonas region of northern Peru
    • 🦙 Highlights: Chachapoya (Warrior of the Clouds) Ruins
    • ⚠️ Tickets & Permits: No permits required.

    The Gran Vilaya Trek is one of the lesser-known routes yet extraordinary trek in the Amazonas region of northern Peru. This multi-day trek takes you through cloud forests, remote archaeological sites, and villages until you finally reach Kuelap, often referred to as the “Machu Picchu of the North.”

    This trek in Peru explores ancient Chachapoya (Warrior of the Clouds) ruins, many of which remain overgrown and untouched by mass tourism. Unlike the heavily trafficked trails in southern Peru, the Gran Vilaya Trek is remote, offering solitude and a sense of exploration.

    The Gran Vilaya Trek is rated moderate to challenging with steep assets and descents, as well as humid conditionsin the cloud forest. The dry season is the best time to trek, with more stable weather and better trail conditions.

    Santa Cruz Trek Peru Hike

    Santa Cruz Trek

    • 💪 Difficulty: Moderate  
    • ⏰ Duration: 3-4 Days
    • 🥾 Distance: 31 Miles
    • ⛰️ Peak Elevation: 15,584 feet
    • ⛰ Elevation Gain 3,940–4,920 feet
    • 📍Peru Hiking Area: Huascarán National Park in Cordillera Blanca
    • 🦙 Highlights: World-Class Mountain Scenery, Moderate Difficulty, and a Relatively Short Duration
    • ⚠️ Tickets & Permits: No permits required.

    Finishing up our best treks in Peru section is the Santa Cruz Trek. This multi-day trek in Peru can be found in the Cordillera Blanca mountain range within Huascarán National Park.

    This trek in South America is celebrated for its dramatic landscapes, glacial lakes, sow-capped mountains, and relatively accessible trail, making it a favorite for trekkers looking to explore Peru.

    The trek’s highest point is Punta Unión Pass at 15,584 feet. From the pass, trekkers are rewarded with panoramic views of glaciated peaks and lush valleys. 

    The Santa Cruz Trek is considered moderate in difficulty, making it an excellent choice for trekkers with some experience who are looking to challenge themselves at high altitude without committing to a longer or more technical trek.

    Book a Trek →

    Day hikes in Peru

    Hikes in Peru

    Machu Picchu Travel Guide

    Huayna Picchu | The Most Epic Hike in Peru

    • 💪 Difficulty: Moderate
    • ⏰ Duration: 3 Hours to go up and come back down
    • 🥾 Distance: 1.2 Miles
    • ⛰️ Peak Elevation: 8,835 feet at the top of Huayna Picchu
    • ⛰ Elevation Gain: 3,280 feet
    • 📍Peru Hiking Area: Machu Picchu
    • 🦙 Highlights: Views over looking Machu Picchu
    • ⚠️ Tickets & Permits: Separate tickets required to enter Machu Picchu & Huayna Picchu.

    Huayna Picchu Mountain (also know as Wayna Picchu) is one of the best ways to see Machu Picchu as it overlooks the iconic, preserved city. Huayna Picchu is the tall mountain you see in the background of the most famous photographs of Machu Picchu.

    The only way to access this Peru hike is through Machu Picchu in the most northern corner. Huayna Picchu requires its own separate ticket which must be booked months in advance.

    The steep hike loops around the mountain and eventually you’ll reach the top. It takes about an hour to hike to the top of the mountain to the highest point.  As you climb up the high mountain, the stairs will become more steep and narrow. These stairs are known as the “stairs of death.”

    Closer to the top there are different temples, altars and terraces that offer panoramic views and a place to catch your breath. A friendly reminder – you have to go down the same way you come up. To see exactly what it’s like, check out this vlog.

    ☕️ Travel Tip: Book the earliest entry ticket to Huayna Picchu at 7 am to beat the crowds to the top.

    rainbow mountain hike in Peru

    Rainbow Mountain

    • 💪 Difficulty: Strenuous
    • ⏰ Duration: 3 Hours
    • 🥾 Distance: 4.5 Miles
    • ⛰️ Peak Elevation:17,060 feet
    • ⛰ Elevation Gain: 3,937 feet
    • 📍Peru Hiking Area: Cusco
    • 🦙 Highlights: The most popular hike in Cusco with spectacular colors.
    • ⚠️ Tickets & Permits: No permits required, but a guide is recommended.

    Rainbow mountain is one of the most famous hikes in Peru hike located in the Andes Mountains near Cusco. The hike takes you past a vibrant green valley and finally to the stunning seven colored rainbow mountain with the snow capped peak of Apu Ausangate towering in the distance.

    The high elevation and weather conditions make this hike very difficult. The hike to rainbow mountain will take 3-4 hours round trip and totals a distance of 4.5 miles.

    This hike is difficult to access by yourself as you need a four wheel drive vehicle to get there, thus the easiest way to enjoy this hike in Peru is on a tour.

    Every tour operator in Cusco offers excursions to rainbow mountain that booking a day in advance will be suffice. Make sure you acclimate in Cusco at least a few days before trying to take on this Peru hike.

    🦙 If you like to plan ahead, here are a few highly rated Rainbow Mountain Tours.

    I'm Jess Traveling at Humantay Lake

    Humantay Lake

    • 💪 Difficulty: Strenuous
    • ⏰ Duration: 2 Hours
    • 🥾 Distance: 2.6 Miles
    • ⛰️ Peak Elevation: 13,900 feet at Humantay Lake
    • ⛰ Elevation Gain: 1,200 feet
    • 📍Peru Hiking Area: Cusco
    • 🦙 Highlights: Glacial Lake that sits at 14,000 Feet
    • ⚠️ Tickets & Permits: No permits required.

    Humantay Lake (pronounced Uman-Tie) is a stunning glacial lake and is known for its turquoise waters, fed by the melting snow of the surrounding Humantay Glacier. 

    This popular trail that starts from the village of Soraypampa, is a moderate challenge, with a steep ascent that rewards you with panoramic views of towering peaks, lush valleys, and the striking contrast of the lakes vivid colors against its rugged surroundings.

    The strenuous 2.6 miles loop trail takes on average 2 hours to complete and is a popular day trip from Cusco. Although it’s only 2.6 miles, Lake Humantay hike starts at 12,700 feet in elevation and ends at the lake at 13,900 feet.

    Like rainbow mountain, the high elevation makes it very difficult and you easily get short of breath. Throw in possibility of altitude sickness and you’re in for a challenging hike. 

    Along the hike you’ll hike past horses and grazing cows through fields of beautiful alpine flowers. If you’d like to see the suffering for yourself, check out this travel vlog about Day 1 Salkantay Trek to Lake Humantay.

    Laguna 69 hike in Peru

    Laguna 69

    • 💪 Difficulty: Strenuous
    • ⏰ Duration: 6 Hours with lake time
    • 🥾 Distance: 7.2 Miles round trip
    • ⛰️ Peak Elevation: 15,091 feet at Laguna 69
    • ⛰ Elevation Gain: 2,600 feet
    • 📍Peru Hiking Area: Cordillera Blanca
    • 🦙 Highlights: Glacial Lake & Mountain Scenery
    • ⚠️ Tickets & Permits: 30 Soles to Enter the National Park

    Located in Huascaran National Park in northern Peru, Laguna 69 is one of the most breathtaking high-altitude hikes in the Andes. This lake is the crown jewel of the Cordilleras and sits at the base of Chacraraju Mountain. 

    This turquoise glacial lake, set against dramatic mountain scenery, is a must-visit for nature lovers and adventurers. This Peru hike is best enjoyed as an overnight trek, although it is possible to be done as a long day hike.

    The Laguna 69 hike is 3.7 miles one way but that doesn’t make it a stroll in the park. The elevation gain, high altitude, and steep sections make this hike in Peru difficult.  

    Since this hike is located in the Huascaran National Park it cost 30 soles for a single day pass. Like several of the Peru hikes on this list, you will want to be acclimatized before embarking on this adventure.

    LAGUNA PARON a top Peru Hike

    Laguna Paron

    • 💪 Difficulty: Easy
    • ⏰ Duration:  1-3 Hours depending on how much time you spend at the lake
    • 🥾 Distance: 1.1 Miles
    • ⛰️ Peak Elevation: 13,780 feet
    • ⛰ Elevation Gain: 485 feet
    • 📍Peru Hiking Area: Cordillera Blanca
    • 🦙 Highlights: Glacier Lake surrounded by Snow-Capped Mountains
    • ⚠️ Tickets & Permits: 30 Soles to Enter the National Park

    Lesser known, but equally beautiful, Laguna Paron is another turquoise alpine lake that sits at an elevation just shy of 14,000 feet. Located in the Cordillera Blanca hiking area, Laguna Paron is one of the best day hikes from Huaraz.

    Laguna Paron is the largest lake in Huascarán National Park and one of the least visited making it a perfect trail if you dislike crowds. If you are looking for an acclimatization hike with a stunning backdrop, this is your hike.

    The lake is surrounded by dramatic snow-capped peaks, including Artesonraju, often cited as the inspiration for the Paramount Pictures logo. Unlike some of Peru’s more strenuous treks, the trail to Laguna Paron is relatively accessible.

    Most hikers have a taxi drop you off at the Electroperu station at Laguna Paron. From here, it takes about 45 minutes to hike 4,500 meters to the lake. The final stretch involves navigating your way over huge boulders.

    Once at the lake, it takes about 2 hours to ramble around (note you are not able to circumvent the lake as the south shore is extremely dangerous). It is possible to camp or stay in the small lakeside refuge at the lake.

    🚕 Travel Tip:  Make sure to pay to have your taxi driver wait for you to finish the hike as it will be very difficult to find transportation afterwards.

    Sunset atop Pachamama on Amanatani IslandPeru

    Pachamama & Pachatata

    • 💪 Difficulty: Easy
    • ⏰ Duration: 2 Hours
    • 🥾 Distance: 3.4 Miles roundtrip
    • ⛰️ Peak Elevation: 13,600 feet
    • ⛰ Elevation Gain: 1,023 feet
    • 📍Peru Hiking Area: Lake Titicaca
    • 🦙 Highlights: Panoramic views of Lake Titicaca
    • ⚠️ Tickets & Permits: No permits required.

    Climbing to the top of Pachamama (Mother Earth) and Pachatata (Father Earth) on Amantaní Island, located in Lake Titicaca, offers a unique cultural and spiritual experience combined with stunning views.

    These twin peaks are the highest peaks on Amantani Island and are home to ancient pre-inch ceremonial sites. From the summits, you’ll enjoy 360-degree views of Lake Titicaca, the surrounding Island of Taquile, and the Bolivian Andes on the horizon.

    It takes about an hour to trek to the top and this hike is best enjoyed at sunset. Check out this travel vlog where we enjoy a homestay on Lake Titcaca and hike to Pachamama. (Skip to 6:30 minutes if you only want to check out the hike).

    Camping in the desert

    Huacachina Sand Dunes

      • 💪 Difficulty: Easy 
      • ⏰ Duration:  20 Minutes to the top of the dune
      • 🥾 Distance: .5 Mile
      • ⛰️ Peak Elevation: 1,600 feet
      • ⛰ Elevation Gain: 1,600 feet
      • 📍Peru Hiking Area: Huacahina
      • ⚠️ Tickets & Permits: No permits or entry fee required.

      If you have a chance to visit Huacachina in your travels through Peru, climbing the tallest sand dune behind the Wild Rover hostel is worth the trek. This is shortest Peru hike on the list but it doesn’t make it less epic.

      It’s a steep 20 minutes to reach the top. I recommend doing this climb at sunset for a spectacular site. Watch the lights of Huacachina – Peru’s desert oasis light up as the sun sinks below the sand.  

      Check out this vlog as we traverse up the giant sand dunes not once but twice for some epic views of Huacachina below.

      Hiking Huayna Picchu

      Peru Hiking Tips

      Hiking in Peru is an incredible adventure, however the country’s high altitudes, diverse terrain, and remote locations mean preparation is essential. Here are some tips to help you make the most of your Peru hiking experience. 

      ⛰️ Acclimatize to Altitude: Many popular hikes in Peru are at higher altitudes (often above 10,000 feet). Spend at least 2-3 days acclimating before starting a trek. Stay hydrated, avoid alcohol, and take coca tea or altitude sickness medication (Sorojchpills).

      🥾 Choosing the right Trek: 

      • Beginner-Friendly: Short hikes near Cusco or the Sacred Valley
      • Moderate: The Classic Inca Trail or Rainbow Mountain 
      • Advanced: Salkantay Trek, Ausangate Circuit, or one of the Cordillera Blanca Treks.

      🎒 Pack Smart. Essentials include good Hiking Boots, moisture-wicking layers (for cold mornings and warm afternoons), a Waterproof Jacket, Power Bank for electronics and sun protection (hat, Sunscreen, and sunglasses). For longer treks pack Trekking Poles, a hydration pack, snacks, and a first-aid kit. 

      💪 Train for the Trek, even moderate trails can be challenging and requires a lot of physical activity due to altitude. Prepare by building endurance, strength, and stamina before your trip. 

      🌦️ Best Time to Hike in Peru. Peru has two main seasons, the dry season (May to September) and the wet season or rainy season (October to April). Most hikes are best done in the dry season, which coincides with peak season, for clearer trails and safer conditions.

      🫏 Hire a Guide or Join a Tour. While some hikes can be done independently, many multi-day treks are awesome when experienced with a guide from a tour company for safety, logistics, gear like sleeping bags & tents, as well as local knowledge. Some trails like the Inca Trail require a licensed guide and permits.

      💦 Stay Hydrated and Snack Often. Carry plenty of water and snacks. Dehydration is common at high altitudes, and you’ll need extra energy for demanding trails. 

      ♻️ Follow the “Leave No Trace” principles to keep the hiking trails in Peru clean and pristine for future visitors. Don’t litter, stick to marked trails and respect local flora, fauna, and cultural & archeological sites.

      📵 Be Prepared for Remote Conditions: Cell service can be limited or nonexistent. Carry a map or download a map on google maps that you can access offline, compass, or GPS device, especially for less-frequented trails. Maps.me was a lifesaver for offline maps.

      ✔ Secure Permits Early. Popular treks like the Inca Trail require permits that sell out months in advance. Plan and book well ahead of your travel dates. 

      🪂 Make sure you have Travel Insurance that covers remote, high-altitude hiking. I never travel without it. 

      Peru Travel Vlogs

      Would you rather see what it’s like to travel Peru? Joe and I filmed many vlogs during our travels and treks through Peru, like the one above on our second day trekking the Salkantay Trail without a guide, tent, or reservation.

      And please subscribe or give us a thumbs up. It doesn’t cost you anything and really helps us be able to continue creating free content for you to enjoy 🙂.

      🎥 Watch our Peru Series on YouTube

      Hiking Acatenango Volcano
      I'm jess Traveling a travel blogger on Maui

      More Epic Hikes Around the World to Add to Your Bucket List

      👇 Looking for more worldwide trekking adventures? I have only just started to properly document all of my hiking/trekking excursions. Below are a few hikes that stand out from the rest.

      Overnight Trek on Acatenango – This overnight trek in Guatemala has you sleeping on a dormant volcano for a front row views of an active volcano erupting through the night.

      Valbona to Theth Trek – An adventure through the Albanian Alps hiking connecting Valbona and Theth National Park.

      Haleakala Volcano – Hiking into the world’s largest dormant volcano on Maui, staying the night in a cabin and hiking out another route.

      Rysy Peak – Hiking to Poland’s highest peak starting in Slovakia.

      Best Hikes on Maui – After living on Maui for 14 years, these are 21 of the best hikes on Maui

      Bucket List Hike on the Great Wall of China – It doesn’t get more epic than this, and we did it without a guided tour – which was magical.

      Best Hikes in Zion National Park – This is one of my favorite places in the world, you can’t beat the hiking.

      Hiking Rio Celeste Costa Rica – A majestic bright blue waterfall & river in Costa Rica. 

      Peru Travel Guides ↓

      📍 Planning your trip to Peru? I spent 2 months traveling around this beautiful country, check out the travel guides below for more inspiration in planning your travels to Peru.

      Machu Picchu Travel Guide 

      Best Things to do in Cusco

      Best Things to do in Miraflores

      12 Must Eat Restaurants in Cusco 

      Best Things to do in Puno | The Gateway to Lake Titicaca

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      Peru Hikes by I'm Jess Traveling
      Hikes in Peru by I'm Jess Traveling
      Hikes & Treks in Peru
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