From the highest tropical peaks to jade-colored crystalline lakes, Peru trekking offers breathtaking views and unforgettable encounters with nature. Peru is home to some of the highest peaks in the Andes and the best trekking routes in the world. These spectacular circuits wet the appetites of hiking enthusiasts everywhere and have become an essential part of any Peru travel.

Take the opportunity to traverse the Caminos del Inca (Inca Roads) while visiting multiple Incan ruin sites and bask in the mysteries of this ancient culture’s civilization. Along with historical wonders, trails also offer abundant and diverse eco-systems sure to leave those on hikers awe-struck with their varied landscapes and mountain views. Pass through remote Quechua villages and interact with these native people. Various options exist to accommodate the hiking amateur as well as challenge avid trekkers. Whatever your pleasure, each trekking adventure is a highlight for any Peru travel.

Classic Inca Trail
The classic Inca Trail is one of the most famous and celebrated circuits in South America. Follow the historic route to the sacred Inca city of Machu Picchu. The stunning combination of Inca ruins, magnificent mountains, exotic vegetation and extraordinary ecology call to trekkers from all over the world. This 4 day/3 night traverses the stone-laid pathway of the ancient Inca people. On the final day of the trek, hikers rise early for a short walk to the Sun Gate to watch the sunrise over Machu Picchu.
Total Distance: 28.0 miles
Highest Altitude: 13,775 ft.

Cachiccata Trek
For those hikers looking for a secluded and less-traversed trail during their Peru travel, the Cachiccata Trek is a great alternative to hiking the classic Inca Trail. This cultural 4 day/3 night trek includes a visit to the Inca temples of Chokekillka and Intiwatana. It also visits local Peruvian communities. In the distance, Mount Veronica reigns supreme over the skyline. The trail ends with a train ride to Machu Picchu. The Cachiccata Trek is an easier, shorter option with hiking at lower altitudes.
Total Distance: 12. 5 miles
Highest Altitude: 12,500 ft.

Ausengate Trek
This Andean trek begins at the river Ocongate and onto the puna (high grasslands) towards Mount Ausengate. The mountain peaks to 20,906 ft. in the skyline. This trek is recommended for moderate hikers seeking varied mountain scenery including grasslands, tumbling glaciers and marshy valleys. The highest point of the trail is Palomani Pass, ascending to 16,564 ft. This 7 day/6 night trek finishes with a visit to the natural thermal waters near the small village of Pacchanta. This circuit is a great option of any Peru travel.
Total Distance: 47.5 miles
Highest Altitude: 16,564 ft.

Salcantay Trek
The Salcantay Trek is a 7 day/6 night circuit that begins in a higher region of Vilcabamba and merges with the classic Inca Trail in the small community of Huayabamba. Because of its mountain scenery and historic significance the Salcantay is a popular trail for many hiking enthusiasts. Before reaching the Inca Trail, enjoy the views of streams and waterfalls, pass by local farmland and admire the beauty and wonder of Salcantay, which towers over the region at 20,551 ft.
Total Distance: ~ 45 miles
Highest Altitude: 15,252 ft.

Cordillera Blanca
One of Peru’s most sought after treks is the Cordillera Blanca. Compacted into a fairly small area, this region has more than 50 peaks 18,700 ft or higher, including Huascaran, Peru’s premier mountain. The Cordillera Blanca offers unforgettable panoramic of soaring Andean summits as well as fluted glacier peak, pre-Inca trails, challenging passes and the twisting trunks of the Queñual and Quisar tree forest. For those hikers looking to spend more time reveling in the Cordillera Blanca, additional days can be added to the trek to give the enthusiast more time exploring the region in their Peru travel.
Total Distance 38.0 miles
Highest Altitude: 15,620 ft.

If you are interested in trekking Peru, Adventure Life Journeys offers a variety of Peru itineraries. Tours include the widely recognized classic Inca Trail, but also venture into the lesser-known regions of Cachiccata, Ausangate, Salcantay and Cordillera Blanca. Whatever circuit you choose it is important to spend some time acclimatizing to the area, and Adventure Life conveniently designs their trekking tours to include a couple of days exploring the celebrated city of Cusco and the Sacred Valley before beginning the trail.

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