Cusco is the historic heart of the Inca Empire, a breathtaking Andean city perched at 3,400 meters above sea level in southeastern Peru. The city blends ancient Inca stonework with Spanish colonial architecture, creating a unique urban landscape that has earned it UNESCO World Heritage status. As the gateway to Machu Picchu and the Sacred Valley, Cusco is one of South America's most visited and culturally rich destinations.
Top trails
Routes worth lacing up your boots for.
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1
Classic Inca Trail to Machu Picchu
The world's most famous trek follows original Inca paving stones through cloud forest, past archaeological sites, and over high mountain passes to the Sun Gate above Machu Picchu. The final morning descent to Machu Picchu at sunrise is one of travel's great experiences.
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2
Salkantay Trek
The most popular alternative to the Inca Trail, the Salkantay Trek traverses a high mountain pass in the shadow of the Salkantay glacier before descending through diverse ecosystems from alpine to subtropical cloud forest, ending at Aguas Calientes for Machu Picchu.
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3
Rainbow Mountain (Vinicunca) Day Hike
A dramatic day hike to the famous multicolored Vinicunca mountain, whose mineral-rich slopes create vivid stripes of red, yellow, green, and purple. The trail begins at 4,750m altitude making it extremely challenging without proper acclimatization.
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4
Lares Trek
An off-the-beaten-path alternative to the Inca Trail passing through traditional Quechua communities where weavers in traditional dress continue ancient textile traditions. Less dramatic ruins but more authentic cultural encounters than the Classic Inca Trail.
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5
Choquequirao Trek
The most challenging and rewarding trek in the Cusco region leads to the remote 'sister city' of Machu Picchu. The trail descends steeply into the Apurimac canyon and climbs equally steeply to the partially excavated ruins. The reward is exploring a major Inca site in near-complete solitude.
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6
Ausangate Circuit
A high-altitude circuit around the sacred Ausangate mountain (6,384m) through some of the most spectacular and remote scenery in the Peruvian Andes. Colorful mineral lakes, herds of wild vicuñas, and the extraordinary Rainbow Mountain (accessible from the circuit) make this a premier Andean trek.
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7
Inca Quarry Trail
A shorter and less crowded alternative route to Machu Picchu that passes through the original Inca quarry where the stones for the citadel were cut. Features excellent archaeological sites and diverse landscapes, ending at Aguas Calientes.
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8
Pisac to Cusco Inca Path
A rewarding full-day walk along original Inca paths from Pisac ruins down through the Sacred Valley and back up to Cusco. Passes traditional communities, Inca terraces, and offers spectacular valley views throughout.
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9
Sacsayhuaman to Qenqo to Tambomachay
A rewarding half-day walk connecting the four Inca sites north of Cusco: Sacsayhuaman, Q'enqo, Puka Pukara, and Tambomachay. Each site is distinct and the walk between them follows a scenic high ridge with city views.
Trail difficulty levels
Pick a route that matches your fitness and experience.
Mostly flat, well-marked paths. Suitable for families and casual walkers.
Some elevation gain, longer distances. Requires basic fitness.
Significant climbs and exposure. Requires good fitness and route-finding.
Technical terrain, scrambling, or alpine conditions. Experience essential.
When to hike
Seasonal conditions in Cusco.
- Spring
- September-November: End of dry season transitioning to wet. September is excellent. October mostly good. November increasingly wet.
- Summer
- December-February: Wet season. Many trails muddy and some closed. Rainbow Mountain not recommended. Inca Trail closed February.
- Fall
- March-May: Drying out from wet season. April-May excellent conditions begin. May is peak start of dry season hiking.
- Winter
- June-August: Peak dry season for trekking. Clear skies, no rain, perfect conditions. Book Inca Trail permits 6-12 months ahead.
Local hazards
What to watch out for on the trail.
Hazard: Altitude sickness (soroche) is the primary risk - acclimatize at least 2-3 days in Cusco before high-altitude treks
Hazard: UV radiation is intense at altitude - wear SPF 50+, sunglasses, and a sun hat
Hazard: Afternoon storms are common even in dry season - start early and be off exposed ridges by early afternoon
Hazard: Dehydration occurs more rapidly at altitude - drink at least 3 liters of water per day on trek
Hazard: Hypothermia risk in high-altitude zones even in summer - pack warm layers and waterproof gear
Hazard: River crossings on some remote routes can be dangerous in wet season
Hazard: Llamas on the trail right of way - give them space and let them pass