Peru captivates travelers with its ancient Incan heritage, including the iconic Machu Picchu, diverse landscapes from Amazon rainforest to Andean peaks, and vibrant culinary scene. This South American gem offers world-class hiking, rich indigenous cultures, and colonial architecture in cities like Cusco and Lima.
Top trails
Routes worth lacing up your boots for.
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1
Inca Trail to Machu Picchu
The world's most famous trek passes through cloud forest, alpine tundra, and stunning Incan ruins before arriving at the Sun Gate above Machu Picchu at sunrise. Permits sell out months in advance and must be booked through licensed operators.
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2
Salkantay Trek
The most popular alternative to the Inca Trail, passing beneath the snow-capped Salkantay glacier through dramatic mountain and cloud forest scenery. No permit required, suitable for fit trekkers, and ends at Machu Picchu.
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3
Rainbow Mountain (Vinicunca) Hike
The hike to Peru's most colorful geological phenomenon requires early departure from Cusco and solid altitude acclimatization. The vibrant mineral striped mountain rewards with panoramic Andean views and surreal color palette.
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4
Colca Canyon Trek
One of the world's deepest canyons offers multi-day trekking through traditional villages, pre-Incan terraces, and condor-soaring viewpoints. The canyon is twice as deep as the Grand Canyon with overnight lodging in small rural communities.
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5
Ausangate Circuit
Epic high-altitude circuit around Peru's sacred mountain Ausangate crossing five challenging mountain passes above 5,000m. The landscape of glacial lakes, hot springs, alpaca herds, and rainbow-colored mountains is breathtaking but demands excellent fitness.
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6
Choquequirao Trek
Access to the 'sister city' of Machu Picchu requires a demanding four-day trek through deep canyon descents and steep ascents. The reward is near-solitary exploration of remarkable Inca ruins visited by only 30-40 people daily.
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7
Lares Trek
Cultural alternative to the crowded Inca Trail passing through remote Andean communities, traditional weaving villages, and thermal hot springs. Less dramatic than Salkantay but richer in cultural encounters with local Quechua communities.
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 Peru.
- Spring
- September to November offers excellent conditions with fewer crowds than peak season. Wildflowers bloom after the rains and trails are drying out. Ideal window for Inca Trail and Rainbow Mountain.
- Summer
- June to August is peak hiking season with dry, clear skies optimal for mountain photography. Busiest period with Inca Trail permits selling out months ahead. Best for high-altitude routes.
- Fall
- March to May transitional period. April and May have fewer crowds with generally good weather, though occasional showers possible. Good value season for accommodation.
- Winter
- December to March is the rainy season with heavy rainfall in highlands making some high trails muddy or impassable. Inca Trail partially closes for maintenance in February. Amazon regions at their best during this period.
Local hazards
What to watch out for on the trail.
Hazard: Altitude sickness (soroche) is a serious risk above 3,000m - acclimatize in Cusco for 2 days before trekking
Hazard: Sudden weather changes at altitude can bring snow, hail, or rain in minutes even in dry season
Hazard: Intense UV radiation at high altitude causes rapid sunburn - use SPF 50+ and reapply every 2 hours
Hazard: Dehydration common at altitude - drink 3-4 liters of water daily on treks
Hazard: Landslides possible on steep mountain trails especially during or after heavy rain
Hazard: Wildlife including pit vipers present on lower cloud forest trails - watch where you step