Depending on the amount of time you have, you can embark on an unforgettable multi-day trek of any region in Peru, be it the north, south, or Andean highlands. The most famous trek of all is the Inca Trail, a four-day hike from the Spanish Colonial city of Cusco to the world’s most famous indigenous ruins, Machu Picchu.
The Salkantay Trek is also a nice alternative to the Inca Trail, as it stops at more ruins while still ending up in the same place. But if you’re looking for an adventure away from the tourist crowds, then head to the northern Andes and explore the glacial lakes of the Cordillera Blanca mountains or visit the Huayhuash range, which features a number of stunning landscapes, such as snow-capped Andean peaks and the high-altitude lagoon of Jahuacocha.
Trekking to Machu Picchu is a dream for many travelers—but there's more than one way to get there. The classic Inca Trail lets trekkers walk in the steps of the Incas, while the more remote Salkantay route offers solitude and wildlife. Compare your options for getting to Peru's most famous place on foot, from distance and cost to overnight options.
The Inca Trail gets most of the publicity, but there are also several hikes within the Machu Picchu complex itself, offering more fabulous mountain scenery and some unique perspectives on the ruins. These hikes, ranging from one to three hours in length, can be great ways of escaping the crowds and adding some color to your time in Machu Picchu.
Thousands of people visit Peru every year for a chance to hike one of the world’s most famous treks — the ancient Inca Trail to Machu Picchu. In order to plan a great trek and memorable experience, here’s an insider’s guide on what to expect, what to avoid, and how to get started in organizing your trip.
Peru — a nation with abundant natural diversity, from coast, to mountains, to jungle — has long attracted lovers of the Great Outdoors. The Peruvian Andes, running like a backbone down the centre of the country, contain mesmerizing variations in landscape that make for some of the best trekking in the world. Cloud forests, 5000m+ cordilleras (mountain ranges), the world’s deepest canyon and the striking remains of ancient civilizations all await.
Peru is famous for the Inca Trail and other multi-day hikes, but if you are short on time, there are plenty of excellent day hikes throughout the Sacred Valley. These hikes are a great way to visit some of the rural communities and lesser-visited ruins throughout the Valley.
Avid hiker and kimkim traveler Kristin Monesmith lives in Peru halftime, working remotely and exploring the endless mountain trails. The Ausangate Trek checked all her boxes: incredibly beautiful, essentially devoid of tourists, and enough of a challenge to leave her feeling accomplished at the end. She spoke with us about her five-day adventure circumnavigating one of the most spectacular mountains in Southern Peru.
If you’re looking for the best way to hike the Inca Trail, this classic route offers a unique approach which avoids the main crowds, and follows the ideal schedule for timing your visit to Machu Picchu.
The Salkantay trek is one of Peru’s best alternatives to the Inca Trail. Trek over a beautiful mountain pass at the foot of Mt. Salkantay before stopping at a local organic coffee plantation, followed by a visit to the Llactapata ruins. Finally, get up early the last day to catch sunrise at the ancient Inca citadel of Machu Picchu.
Explore the Cordillera Huayhuash on this 9-day adventure through one of the most impressive regions of the Peruvian Andes. This is one of the lesser-known and uncrowded treks due to the remote location of this beautiful mountain range.
This seven-day journey highlights all of the iconic landscapes, famous Incan ruins, and cultural experiences that make Peru a sought-after destination. Stroll the textile markets of Cusco, visit the floating islands of Lake Titicaca, spend a day at the ancient citadel of Machu Picchu, and more.
From the remote Machu Picchu ruins to the lush Amazon rainforest, this seven-day itinerary brings you to Peru's iconic landscapes. Fly to metropolitan Lima, then connect with the Inca capital of Cusco. Explore colorful textile markets, small towns, and Inca ruins in the Sacred Valley before traveling east to Puerto Maldonado, your launch point to the lush Amazon. Spend three days viewing wildlife, like the giant river otter, river cayman, and vibrant parrot species, while enjoying a comfortable stay at an eco-lodge.
If you’re looking for a beautiful and more remote trek in Peru, the Ausangate trek may be perfect for you. On this 8-day itinerary, you’ll discover the beauty and rugged highlands of the Ausangate region, hike past glacial lakes, and wander amidst herds of alpacas.
Twice as deep as the Grand Canyon, the Cotahuasi is the deepest canyon in the world, cutting through the Coropuna and Surimana massifs. With numerous hiking trails and vantage points, Cotahuasi is a beautiful region that few travelers get to see. With single and multiday tours, you'll get to hike the length of one of the world's greatest natural wonders.
Discover the ancient ruins of Choquequirao, the “sister city” of Machu Picchu, along this challenging yet rewarding trek. The 65 km trek passes through lush jungles, deep canyons, and snow-capped peaks en route to Machu Picchu. If you’re up for the adventure, this is one of the most beautiful treks in the Cusco Region.
A shorter alternative to the Inca Trail, the Lares Trek offers an experience just as stunning. Despite the high altitudes, this trek follows a less rigorous route through local communities, making it ideal for those who are looking for something accessible, unique, and immersive.
Trek the last day of the Classic Inca Trail to Machu Picchu. If you're short on time or permits are sold out for the full Inca Trail, this is a great option for those wishing to experience a taste of this famous route. You'll enter the ruins through the Sun Gate as the sun sets over Machu Picchu, then have a full tour of the ruins the following day.
Experience Peru's rich cultural history and hike through the Andes on this exciting blended trip. Spend several days exploring ancient Inca sites in Cusco, the Sacred Valley, and Machu Picchu. Then continue on foot through the mountains, trekking on and around Ausangate through vast glacial valleys and between herds of wild vicuñas. Spend your nights in cozy mountain lodges operated in collaboration with local communities.
Named after the highest peak in the Vilcabamba mountain range, the Salkantay Trek takes you high in the Andes outside Cusco, providing specular views of snow-capped mountains, glacial lakes, and lush cloud forest. It’s an easy to moderate hike, with some sections of challenging terrain. The trek involves comfortable stays at luxurious lodges in remote locations so that you can enjoy the gorgeous Andean scenery without having to give up your comforts.
Explore the essential highlights of Peru, including visits to Cusco, Machu Picchu, and Rainbow Mountain, on this weeklong adventure. Begin with a night in Lima and head to the Sacred Valley, where you'll enjoy cultural experiences and a tour of the Maras Salt Flats. Hike part of the famed Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, where you'll spend a day immersed in Inca history. End your trip with a special hike to the brilliantly-hued Rainbow Mountain.
The Santa Cruz four-day trek takes you high into the Cordillera Blanca in northern Peru, providing spectacular views of glacier-wrapped peaks, turquoise lakes and fields of wildflowers. It's a demanding hike that will test your body and lungs, but well worth it for the epic scenery. This article will help you make the most of your Peruvian high altitude adventure, and provide information on extending the hike to five or more days.
Journey through an undiscovered land of wild desert landscapes, snow-capped peaks, herds of alpacas, to arrive at the ultimate destination: the rainbow-painted slopes of Rainbow Mountain hidden deep in the Andes.
Explore Peru's remote Huayhuash range in the northern Peruvian Andes during this 9-day adventure. Start in metropolitan Lima, then transfer to Huaraz in the north. Join your trekking group and support team in the village of Pacllón, then hit the trail for a spectacular 5-day hike. You will trek through rugged landscapes, camp beneath a spectacular night sky, and spend afternoons relaxing by turquoise mountain lakes. Alpine meadows and snow-capped mountains that reach 19,685 ft (6,000 m) are the backdrops for this adventure. At night, relax at camp to a hot meal prepared by the camp cook.
This itinerary is ideal for travelers who have a limited amount of time in the Sacred Valley, and really want to make it count. Spend 5 days delving into the beauty and rich culture of the Sacred Valley. Walk in the footsteps of the Inca on the short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, and top it off with an exploration of the ancient ruins of Machu Picchu.
This awesome 12-day adventure takes you to the pristine heartlands of the Cordillera Huayhuash, one of the most stunning mountain areas in Peru. Your lungs will be tested as you cross four passes over 14,700 feet (4480 m)—but the challenge is well worth it for the chance to see colorful lakes, glaciers, wildlife, and Peruvian mountain culture.
From metropolitan Lima to the remote Peruvian Andes, this 5-day adventure brings you to the heart of the mountains. Start in Lima— the capital of Peru—then take a quick flight to Huaraz, a mountain town popular with outdoor enthusiasts. Spend a day exploring the city's history, then head into the mountains to see stunning glaciated peaks, bright blue mountain lakes, and Peru's highest mountain—Mt. Huascaran, which towers at 22,205 ft.
For people who enjoy backpacking in the mountains and beautiful hot springs, this is the ideal multi-day trek. You'll have a local guide who will help you discover Colca Canyon, one of the deepest canyons in the world, with stunning views of the Andes.
In recent years, a number of alternative treks to the Inca Trail have opened up, offering hikers an off-the-beaten-path experience to reach the famed citadel of Macchu Picchu. Treks have also taken on a new face, targeting travelers who are keen on long adventurous hikes but who want all the comforts of a hotel at night. There are a handful of lodge-to-lodge treks available in the Cusco area, offering travelers the perfect balance between adventure and luxury.
Trek through the Lares Valley, where you'll pass between glacier-capped mountains where llamas and alpacas graze in the surrounding hills. You'll visit the town of Lares, a colourful traditional town in the heart of the valley. Combined with the Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, this is a trek that combines two wonderful valleys & mountain ranges with very different ecologies & landscapes.
An activity-filled expedition to the South of Peru. A multi-day tour full of new experiences that excite & challenge. This is a tour for all age ranges, group sizes and all types of experience.
From colonial cities to remote Inca ruins, this 10-day tour of Peru is ideal for travelers who like a bit of history with their adventure. Start by enjoying cosmopolitan Lima before jetting off to Cusco, a former Inca capital later conquered by the Spanish. From there, hit the legendary Inca Trail to Machu Picchu and finish the trip on the shores of mystical Lake Titicaca, where you'll visit floating islands.
Avid hikers, this one's for you! Follow the Camino del Apu Ausangate through the Cordillera Vilcanota mountain range, accompanied by llamas and horses loaded up with gear. You'll overnight in traditional tambo lodges, enjoy authentic Peruvian cuisine, and gain a better understanding of life in Andes.
Cachicata is a relatively new and less-crowded trek in Peru's Sacred Valley. You'll pass beneath beautiful snow-capped mountains, cross over a high pass, and descend down into the Sacred Valley, arriving at the village of Ollantaytambo. From Ollantaytambo, it's a short train journey to Machu Picchu where you can enjoy a private tour of the ruins.
From bustling cities to remote Inca ruins, this 8-day tour of Peru's highlights is perfect for adventurous and fit travelers. Discover Peru's metropolitan culture in the capital city of Lima, then continue to the imperial Inca city of Cusco. Tour the Sacred Valley and explore Inca ruins and colorful textile markets before embarking on a 4-day trek on the Inca Trail. Walk on the same stone steps that Inca engineers built in the 15th century, cross Dead Woman Pass at 13,828 ft (4,215 m), and relax in camp at night with sweeping vistas of the Andes Mountains. Finish your trek at the famed Machu Picchu ruins.
Discover Peru's Cordillera Blanca as you trek, climb, and scramble over snow- and ice-covered moraine rock into the high altitudes of the Andes. Not for the faint of heart, this 19-day itinerary is for the somewhat experienced climber and altogether adventurous spirit. This program includes acclimatization hikes and a basic climbing course to practice the skills required to reach the summit of Alpamayo. It's also an excellent trip for photography lovers — the views are simply breathtaking!
The five-day Lares Trek takes you high up in the Andes, hiking during the day and overnighting in luxurious lodges along the way. Providing impressive views of snow-capped peaks and glacial lakes, it’s a relatively demanding hike that will test your fitness.
From the city to the jungle, this 7-day exploration of Peru is perfect for adventurous travelers. Start in metropolitan Lima, then continue to the ancient Inca capital of Cusco. Explore the ancient Incan streets of Cusco then continue to the jungle for a stay at a jungle lodge. Explore the rainforest, visit a coffee plantation, and hike the Inca Trail to see the Llactapata ruins. Spend a day visiting Machu Picchu, the famed 15th-century citadel. Finally head back towards Cusco to see the colorful Rainbow Mountain.
If you wish to experience the Peruvian Andes with a private guide—and a touch of luxury—then this weeklong itinerary is for you. Starting and ending in Cusco, you'll tour the area's best villages and archaeological sites, take an epic hike to Machu Picchu, and visit a lesser-known Rainbow Mountain at 15,500 feet (4,724 m) above sea level. Of course, each day includes memorable meals on family farms, top-notch restaurants, and even a special train ride to round out this quietly sophisticated adventure.
Explore Southern Peru's most famous region through a uniquely immersive local experience. This tour will allow you to experience the trails, traditions, and daily lives of subsistence farmers while still making time for the more well-known highlights of the Sacred Valley.
From metropolitan cities and ancient Inca ruins to remote jungle lodges, this 16-day exploration of Peru's history and nature is perfect for the adventurous traveler. Start in Lima, Peru's capital city, then continue to the Amazon rainforest. Spend a few days deep in the Amazon exploring the jungle and seeing rare wildlife. Next, head to the imperial Inca capital of Cusco to explore narrow cobblestone streets and 15th-century archaeological sites. Then, embark on the Salkantay Trek to get some breathtaking views of the Sacred Valley. End your trek at Machu Picchu, and spend a day immersed in the beauty and history of its ancient ruins. Reward your hard work with two relaxing days exploring the villages and historical sights of the Sacred Valley. Finally, head back to Cusco and summit the colorful Rainbow Mountain.
For a once-in-a-lifetime adventure in Peru, you'll want to see it all—and this two-week itinerary comes close. After an exciting food tour in Lima, set off for the epic landscapes, starting with a remote lodge in the lush Amazon. Next, fly to the high-altitude Andes for hikes and cultural activities—including time in Machu Picchu—before ending at a Sahara-like desert next to the Pacific Ocean. Along the way, you'll meet local artisans, llama herders, and even marine life in the "Peruvian Galápagos."
On this Peruvian adventure, you'll start in the ancient Inca capital of Cusco. Embark on a rewarding trek to the ancient ruins of Choquequirao, the “sister city” of Machu Picchu, passing through jungles and snow-capped peaks en route to Machu Picchu. If you’re up for a challenge, this is one of the most beautiful treks in the Sacred Valley.
Discover the ancient ruins of Choquequirao, the “sister city” of Machu Picchu, along this challenging yet rewarding trek. The 65 km trek passes through lush jungles, deep canyons, and snow-capped peaks en route to Machu Picchu. If you’re up for the adventure, this is one of the most beautiful treks in the Cusco Region. Top it all off with an in-depth exploration of the ruins, markets, and villages of the Sacred Valley.
This 12-day tour of Peru's highlights is perfect for adventurous and fit travelers. Begin in the imperial Incan city of Cusco, where you'll embark on a 3-day trek to Machu Picchu. Then, explore the Sacred Valley's ruins, markets, and villages before summiting Rainbow Mountain and getting your fill of culture and stellar views at Lake Titicaca.
This 11-day exploration of Peru is perfect for adventurous travelers. Start in metropolitan Lima, then continue to the ancient Inca capital of Cusco. Head into the mountains to challenge yourself on the 4-day Salkantay Trek—a spectacular hike with remote camping and glacial views. End in Aguas Calientes for a relaxing night, then visit the famed Machu Picchu citadel—a marvel of ancient engineering. Finally, head to the Amazon jungle to spot wildlife like macaws, cayman, giant river otters, and tapirs.
The Ausangate trek is beautiful and remote, a great option for travelers keen on avoiding the crowds of the Inca Trail. With this itinerary, you'll start with history and culture in the ancient Incan capital of Cusco. From here, embark on your five-day trek and discover the beauty and rugged highlands of the Ausangate region—glacial lakes, herds of alpacas, and pretty mountain views. Cap off your trek with a day of exploration at Machu Picchu, Peru's most iconic ruins.
Immerse yourself in the beauty and culture of Peru's Sacred Valley on this active 10-day adventure. After a tour of Lima, you'll fly across the Andes to the ancient capital of Cusco—your gateway to the land of the Inca. After exploring remarkable sites like Pisac, Ollantaytambo, and Moray, lace up your hiking boots and set out on a three-day trek along the iconic Lares and Short Inca Trails to Machu Picchu.
Discover Colca Canyon - one of the deepest canyons in the world. Here, you'll find a canyon filled with rivers, verdant forests, and an ancient agricultural tradition. During the trek, you'll have the chance to interact with friendly Andean farmers and taste the typical foods of the region. Enjoy afternoon swims in natural pools and waterfalls before camping overnight in tents in beautiful natural campsites. After your time in Colca Canyon, head to the Inca capital of Cusco and explore colorful textile markets and small towns of the Sacred Valley. Next, embark on the Lares Trek, and hike the short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu. Top it all off with a full day exploring the iconic Machu Picchu Ruins.
This three-week itinerary is ideal for avid hikers looking for a unique adventure. Explore the ancient Incan capital of Cusco before embarking on the 5-day Ausangate trek, a beautiful and off the beaten path trek to Machu Picchu. During the trek, you’ll discover the beauty and rugged highlands of the Ausangate region, hike past glacial lakes, and wander amidst herds of alpacas. After completing the trek, venture to Machu Picchu citadel to explore Peru's most iconic ruins. Next, head out to explore the colonial city of Arequipa, then travel to Colca Canyon, one of the world's deepest canyons. After trekking through the canyon, depart for Lake Titicaca to spend a few days hiking, kayaking, and exploring the region's rich history, culture, and natural beauty.
Explore the essential highlights of Peru's Sacred Valley with this short itinerary. Begin with two days in Cusco, touring the textile markets and ancient ruins that the ancient Inca capital is famous for. Take a guided excursion to the top sites of the Sacred Valley, and enjoy a one-day trek on the Inca Trail, ending in Aguas Calientes. Complete your trip with a full day of exploration in the Machu Picchu citadel complex, the perfect grand finale.
From bustling cities to remote jungles, this tour of Peru's highlights is perfect for adventurous travelers. Discover Peruvian cuisine and culture in Lima, and continue to Cusco and the Sacred Valley. Explore Inca ruins and colorful textile markets before embarking on a short Inca Trail trek, ending at the famed Machu Picchu ruins. Top it all off with a visit the Amazon, spotting wildlife like macaws, cayman, anaconda, and tapir.
Pair a short trek in the Lares Valley with Amazon exploration on this ten-day tour. Spend two days hiking past glacier-capped mountains and grazing alpacas, ending in the traditional town of Lares in the Sacred Valley. Then, walk a short section of the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu before heading to Puerto Maldonado—gateway to the rainforest. Enjoy wildlife and botany tours, ride the river in a dugout canoe, and spend your nights in the comfort of an eco-lodge.
If you’re looking for a beautiful and more remote trek in Peru, the Ausangate trek may be perfect for you. This itinerary gives you some time to explore the ancient Incan capital of Cusco before embarking on this 5-day trek. During the trek, you’ll discover the beauty and rugged highlands of the Ausangate region, hike past glacial lakes, and wander amidst herds of alpacas.
With its pre-Inca farming terraces, 15th-century temples, and Baroque architecture hewn from volcanic stone, Peru is steeped in history. Take in just a fraction of all the country has to offer during this 15-day itinerary. Catch up with modern times, savor ceviche in Lima, and visit an animal sanctuary at the edge of the Sacred Valley before spending a few days in the Peruvian Amazon.
Trek through the Lares Valley, where you'll pass between glacier-capped mountains where llamas and alpacas graze in the surrounding hills. You'll visit the town of Lares, a colorful traditional town in the heart of the valley. Combined with the Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, this is a trek that combines two wonderful valleys & mountain ranges with very different ecologies & landscapes. Next, enjoy a kayaking adventure on Lake Titicaca and delve into the beauty and history of the region.
This active 12-day itinerary combines the cultural highlights of Peru's Sacred Valley with plenty of outdoor adventure. Based in historic Cusco, you'll tour ancient sites like Pisac and Moray then head into the cloud forest for a four-day trek along the Choquequirao Trail. Discover hidden Inca ruins and sleep under the stars as you make your way towards the crowning glory of Machu Picchu. After more downtime in Cusco, end the trip with a final hike up the "Rainbow Mountain" of Palcoyo.
While Machu Picchu is a must-see in Peru, there's more than one way to reach the iconic Inca site. During this 15-day itinerary, take on the lesser-known, more challenging Salkantay Trail on your way to the 15th-century citadel, catching stunning mountain views and visiting villages, coffee farms, and archaeological sites along the way. Once you've completed the trek, kick up your feet for a four-day cruise within the Peruvian Amazon rainforest.
Traveling by car, plane, train, and foot, you'll experience Peru's ancient civilizations and customs on this active cultural adventure. Soak up the vibrant energy of cosmopolitan Lima and explore the former Inca capital, Cusco, then learn about the rituals of ancient civilizations at El Brujo. In Chachapoyas, see the mysterious Karajia Sarcophagi and learn about Peru's pyramids and engineering feats at the Royal Tombs museum. Hike to a hidden waterfall at Gocta, sleep under the stars at Waqrapukara, and stand in awe at Machu Picchu.
This adventurous 10-day itinerary combines the highlights of Peru's Sacred Valley with an unforgettable three-day mountain trek. Flying from Lima, you'll cross the Andes to reach the ancient Inca capital of Cusco—gateway to the wonders of the Sacred Valley. Tour remarkable Inca sites like Ollantaytambo, Pisac Citadel, and the salt mines of Maras, then hit the trails and hike through spectacular mountain scenery to reach the crowning glory of Machu Picchu.
This 15-day trek through Peru's Sacred Valley invites you to explore as the Inca did. From Lima to Cusco, get a glimpse of the country's past and vibrant present, then trek through Amazon cloud forests to marvel at Machu Picchu before you. Learn about Inca culture in Cusco and Ollantaytambo, see modern and energetic Peruvian life in Lima's Miraflores district, paddle board on Lake Piuray, and follow the Inca trail as you hike through Soraypampa.
Discover the heart and soul of Peru with this epic journey through diverse landscapes, ancient wonders, and culinary delights. Over the course of 16 days, you'll hike the famous four-day Inca Trail, uncover the mysteries of Machu Picchu, and experience the enchanting Amazon Rainforest. Between these grand adventures, local guides will show you the food scene in Lima, historical treasures in Cusco, and ancient Inca civilizations at various villages and sites, including Sacsayhuaman and Ollantaytambo.
Discover Peru with a side of luxury on this eight-day tour that kicks off in Cusco with a seven-course gourmet dinner. Spend a day touring the Sacred Valley's llama sanctuaries, artisan markets, and Inca ruins, then gear up for a three-day trek along the Salkantay Trail, passing glacial lakes, snowy peaks, and hot springs. End your trip on the opulent Belmond Hiram Bingham train from Cusco to Machu Picchu, where you'll enjoy a private tour of Peru's most famous landmark.
