For adventurous travelers looking to explore new cultures, Peru is the ideal destination. The country boasts some of the world’s most beautiful and diverse hiking trails, offering intrepid travelers plenty of opportunity to immerse themselves in breathtaking natural beauty.
From Machu Picchu to Rainbow Mountain, here are the top 10 hikes you don’t want to miss when visiting Peru! From the multi-day Inca Trail through the Andes to the Quitapenas Lake trail with its Andean wildlife, Peru has something for everyone.
Whether you’re a hardcore trekker or a casual hiker, these hikes will give you plenty of opportunities to explore and experience the incredible culture of Peru. So put on your hiking boots and get ready for an unforgettable adventure!
Traveling To Peru
Peru is a popular destination for tourists, known for its rich cultural heritage and diverse landscapes. The country is home to ancient Inca ruins, colonial architecture, and stunning natural wonders such as Machu Picchu, the Amazon rainforest, and the Andes mountain range.
Getting around Peru can be done by plane, bus, or car. The country has a well-developed network of roads and highways, making it easy to travel by car.
Also when it comes to accommodation, Peru has something to offer for every budget. From high-end hotels to budget-friendly hostels, there are plenty of options to choose from. It’s also possible to find homestays and traditional guesthouses in rural areas, offering a unique cultural experience.
Is Peru Safe To Travel?
Peru is a country full of diverse, vibrant cultures and beautiful, awe-inspiring nature. A visit to Peru will quickly be remembered as an experience of exotic sights, sounds, and tastes.
From the ancient Incan city of Machu Picchu to the incredible wildlife of the Amazon rainforest, from the bustling markets of Lima to small Andean village life, you will find something amazing to explore in your Peru travel destinations.
With plenty of adventure and lush landscapes to explore, Peru is a traveler’s dream. Whether you’re seeking relaxation, culture, or adventure, there’s something for everyone in this vibrant South American nation.
A few things that we need to be aware of, as with any travel plans are listed below:
- Pickpocketing and petty theft can be a problem in major tourist areas, so it’s essential to keep an eye on your valuables and avoid carrying large amounts of cash.
- In some areas, such as the Machu Picchu Historical Sanctuary and the Inca Trail, it’s mandatory to hire a licensed guide. It not only helps to preserve the sites but also can guarantee your safety.
- Some areas of the country, such as the VRAEM (Valley of the Rivers Apurímac, Ene, and Mantaro) and the border regions with Colombia and Brazil, have a higher crime rate. It’s best to avoid these areas or to exercise caution if you do decide to visit.
- Some areas of the country, such as the Amazon, can have a higher risk of insect-borne diseases and other health hazards. It is important to take precautions and to be aware of the potential risks.
It’s always a good idea to check the latest travel advice from your government’s foreign office or similar before traveling to any destination. And also, it’s a good idea to take out travel insurance before your trip, in case of any unexpected events.
Hiking In Peru
Peru offers a wide range of trekking and hiking options for all skill levels, from the Andes mountains to the Amazon rainforest. The most famous hike in Peru is the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, a four-day trek that covers around 26 miles and requires a good level of fitness.
Other popular treks include the Salkantay Trek, Lares Trek, and Colca Canyon. The Manu National Park in the Amazon rainforest also offers a wide range of hiking and trekking options.
It’s worth noting that most of the treks require hiring a guide and getting a permit, especially the Inca Trail and Machu Picchu, so it’s best to plan and book in advance.
Overall, hiking and trekking in Peru offer a chance to explore the country’s stunning landscapes and rich cultural heritage.
Top 10 Hikes In Peru To Explore
- Inca Trail to Machu Picchu: The most famous hike in Peru, the Inca Trail takes you through the Andes to the ancient city of Machu Picchu. The trail is a four-day trek that covers around 26 miles and requires a good level of fitness.
- Salkantay Trek: A popular alternative to the Inca Trail, the Salkantay Trek offers a more remote and less-crowded experience. The trek is around 70 miles and takes around 5 days to complete.
- Lares Trek: The Lares Trek is a quieter and less-crowded alternative to the Inca Trail that takes you through the Andes and allows you to see the local culture and traditional communities. The trek is around 45 miles and takes around 4 days to complete.
- Choquequirao Trek: This trek takes you to the lesser-known Incan ruins of Choquequirao, which are often referred to as the “sister” of Machu Picchu. The trek is around 55 miles and takes around 5 days to complete.
- Ausangate Trek: This trek takes you to the base of Ausangate, the highest mountain in the region, and offers spectacular views of the Andes and traditional Andean communities. The trek is around 60 miles and takes around 6 days to complete.
- Colca Canyon: The Colca Canyon, located in the Andes, is one of the deepest canyons in the world and offers a variety of hiking trails for all skill levels. The most popular hike is the two-day trek to the bottom of the canyon.
- Huaytapallana: This trek takes you to the summit of Huaytapallana, a mountain located in the Andes, and offers a challenging climb with stunning views of the region.
- Huayna Picchu: This hike takes you to the summit of Huayna Picchu, the mountain located behind Machu Picchu, and offers a challenging climb with stunning views of the ancient city.
- Vilcabamba: The Vilcabamba trek takes you to the last capital of the Inca Empire and offers a chance to see the remote Incan ruins in the region.
- Manu National Park: The Manu National Park is located in the Amazon rainforest and offers a wide range of hiking and trekking options, from day hikes to multi-day treks. The park is known for its rich biodiversity and offers a chance to see a wide variety of wildlife.
It’s worth noting that most of the treks mentioned above require hiring a guide and getting a permit, especially the Inca Trail and Machu Picchu. It’s best to plan and book in advance, as the permits are limited and can sell out quickly during the peak season.
Best Time To Travel To Peru
Traveling to Peru for hikes is an unforgettable experience and the best time to visit depends on what type of hikes you would like to do. For shorter and easier trails, the months of May-September are the best due to mild temperatures and sunny days.
For higher elevation treks and mountain hikes, April-October offers the best weather conditions with lower levels of precipitation and limited snowfall. However, hiking in Peru’s jungles is possible year-round, with year-round temperatures in the low 80s (30°C) making it a great destination for a tropical escape.
Ultimately, no matter when you decide to go, Peru has some amazing hikes to offer and is sure to provide a memorable adventure!
There’s also a shoulder season, which is the transition period between the two seasons. It can be a good time to visit if you want to avoid the crowds and high prices of the peak season but still have good weather.
It’s also worth noting that Peru’s high season coincides with the northern hemisphere’s summer and the low season with the northern hemisphere’s winter.
If you are looking for a warm weather destination during the winter, Peru is a good option.
Ultimately, the best time to visit Peru depends on your personal preferences and travel plans. If you’re planning to hike or trek to Machu Picchu, for example, the dry season is the best option. If you’re interested in wildlife and the rainforest, the rainy season can be a good time to visit.
So, if you’re looking for an unforgettable adventure, Peru is the ultimate outdoor playground! From the awe-inspiring Inca Trail to Machu Picchu and the lesser-known Choquequirao Trek, there’s something to suit trekkers of all skill levels.
Embark on a journey through the imposing Andes mountains and explore ancient Incan ruins or delve deep into the Amazon rainforest to discover a plethora of wildlife. Before setting off, bear in mind that most treks in Peru require guides as well as permits, so be sure to book ahead.
With so much on offer, don’t miss out on a hiking and trekking experience like no other!
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Feature photo courtesy of Pexels
