Peru inspires with its breathtaking mix of snow-covered Andean peaks, mystical Inca sites and vibrant cultures. For trekking fans, the country is a true paradise where both beginners and experienced hikers will find great routes. With solid preparation, the right equipment and some altitude acclimatization, nothing stands in the way of an unforgettable hiking experience.
The Santa Cruz trek, which starts in Cashapampa or Vaquería (near the city of Huaraz), is relatively short at 4-5 days, but the scenery is all the more impressive for it. Along the way, you will pass shimmering turquoise mountain lakes such as Laguna Jatuncocha, while the 6,000-metre peaks of the Cordillera Blanca rise up on the horizon. The highlight is the crossing of the Punta Unión pass at around 4,750 meters, from where you can enjoy the perfect view of the legendary Alpamayo. Despite the altitude, the route is considered feasible for anyone who has a good basic level of fitness and has acclimatized in Huaraz beforehand.
The most famous trekking route in Peru is undoubtedly the Inca Trail. However, those who prefer a shorter and less strenuous variant can start at kilometer 104 on the railroad line between Cusco and Aguas Calientes. The trail leads through lush cloud forests past impressive Inca ruins such as Wiñay Wayna and finally ends at the Sun Gate (Inti Punku), where Machu Picchu is revealed in all its splendor for the first time. The two-day tour thus offers a condensed experience of the historic Inca trails. Important to know: Official permits and a licensed guide are mandatory for the Inca Trail.
Away from the crowds, the Lares trek offers an authentic encounter with the people of the Peruvian highlands. The 2-4-day hike often starts in Lares or Calca, around two to three hours from Cusco. On narrow paths and over passes between 4,000 and 4,500 meters above sea level, you will pass through traditional Quechua villages where colourful textiles are still woven and old customs are still practised. This focus on culture is a welcome alternative to pure nature treks. Many hikers complete the Lares trek with a train or bus ride to Aguas Calientes to visit Machu Picchu.
A popular alternative to the classic Inca Trail, the Salkantay Trek (4-6 days) leads from Mollepata over the 4,600-metre-high Salkantay Pass to the subtropical valleys near Machu Picchu. Passing high alpine landscapes, glacial lakes and fog-shrouded forests, you will cross all the climatic zones of the Peruvian Andes. The view of the Salkantay peak, which is over 6,200 meters high, is undoubtedly one of the highlights. Although this is a challenging route, it is easily manageable with a solid level of fitness and appropriate altitude acclimatization. Many offers end directly at Aguas Calientes, giving you the opportunity to visit Machu Picchu.
Choquequirao, in the highlands far from the tourist trails, is often referred to as the "second Machu Picchu", but is far less developed. From Cachora, around four hours from Cusco, a steep but scenically magnificent path leads through deep valleys and dense cloud forests to the mystical ruins. At an altitude of over 3,000 meters, there are impressive Inca terraces and ceremonial sites that have only been partially excavated. You will need a good level of fitness for the hike, which takes around 4-5 days, but you will be rewarded with an original Inca experience that few visitors get to see.
The trekking options in Peru are as varied and impressive as the landscape. Whether you want to experience the classic highlights such as Machu Picchu or venture into remote mountain regions - thanks to good preparation, an appropriate choice of route and a little adventurous spirit, your trek in Peru is guaranteed to be unforgettable.
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