Hiking in Peru

For trekkers headed to South America, Peru should be at the top of the list, offering some of the world’s most remarkable hiking trails in Peru — including the legendary Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, the ultimate route for adventurous hikers. The country’s mountainous spine, the Andes, provides a dramatic backdrop for many of these trails, where stunning scenery meets remnants of ancient Inca civilization. These awe-inspiring mountains host a wide range of unforgettable hikes, though the high altitudes demand time for acclimatization. It’s also important to plan around the weather—many of the best hiking trails in Peru are far more enjoyable during the dry season, with May to November being ideal months to avoid rain-slicked paths and muddy terrain.

The best hiking trails in Peru

Wherever your adventure takes you along the hiking trails in Peru, you’re guaranteed incredible landscapes, rich culture, and captivating remnants of the pre-Colombian era. We’ve gathered a selection of ideas for walking in Peru, from scenic short hikes to multi-day treks across dramatic terrain. And if your favorite trail isn’t featured, don’t worry – the beauty of tailor-made trips are that our local experts can customize your itinerary to include the very best hiking trails in Peru that suit your interests and experience.

Around Puerto Maldonado

The beauty of exploring hiking trails in Peru’s Amazon region lies not in the distances covered, but in the discoveries made along the way. From your jungle base, trails might lead to a Brazil nut plantation or a clay lick where vibrant birdlife gathers each morning. Other hiking routes take you to canopy viewing platforms or meandering waterways equipped with kayaks, offering a fresh perspective on one of the most biodiverse corners of the world. These hiking trails in Peru offer an unforgettable way to experience the magic of the Amazon up close.

Hiking in Ollantaytambo

A short but moderately tricky hike out of Ollantaytambo takes you to the ruined Inca granaries which are visible on the hillside above town. The path is mostly stone steps, and takes you to see the ancient storehouses close up, and also provides access to various viewpoints over the town and its fortress. Allow around two hours in total. Other hikes from here include a six hour round trip to the beautiful Perolniyoc Waterfall, a fairly strenuous walk but worth the trek; and a four-five hour round trip to the hillside ruins of Pumamarca with views over the confluence of two rivers.

Read more: Discover mouthwatering Peruvian cuisine

The Sacred Valley

Whether you are warming up for the main event – the Inca Trail – or just after something different, there are plenty of other hikes of various lengths in and around the Sacred Valley. One of the most impressive one or two-day hikes around Cusco which encompasses a smattering of Inca ruins, sweeping mountain views, and local culture in rustic villages is the trek to Little Cusco. The archeological site itself is sizeable and is only accessible to visitors arriving under their own steam, so it never gets crowded, and the location allows incredible views. To do this six-hour hike in a single day, use the local knowledge of our Peru experts to organize transport back to the point of origin.

Hiking in Cusco

Only revealed a few years ago by receding ice, Vinicunca – also known as Rainbow Mountain – has quickly become one of the most iconic hiking trails in Peru and a favorite on Instagram. When the weather cooperates, its multicolored mineral layers set against dramatic high Andean peaks make for a truly stunning sight. Getting there from Cusco requires determination – a long drive followed by a two-hour high-altitude hike. Starting at 4,600 meters and ascending to 5,200 meters, this trail is not to be underestimated. Like many high-altitude hiking trails in Peru, proper acclimatization in Cusco is essential before attempting the trek.

Hiking in Lima

Peru’s capital city is known for its architecture, culture, and fine food, not for its hiking possibilities, but not far from the city, there are some wonderful trails to enjoy. The dramatic ravines and peaks of Lomas de Lucumo are often shrouded in mist but this means that the area is jewel bright with greenery – a fabulous contrast to the urban jungle of Lima just 35 kilometers away. The Lomas de Lucumo Park has a network of walking trails suitable for day hikes taking in abandoned mines, Inca relics, and cave paintings.

Machu Picchu

The classic approach to Machu Picchu is via the legendary Inca Trail, one of the most iconic hiking trails in Peru. Typically completed over four days, this trek ends with an unforgettable arrival at the Inca’s mountain citadel, a masterpiece of ancient engineering. While it’s one of the best-known and most popular hiking routes in the world, its status is well-earned. The trail is demanding, especially at altitude, so a good level of fitness and proper acclimatization are essential. Permits are limited and sell out months in advance, making early planning crucial. Keep in mind that this celebrated trail is closed each February for maintenance.

Read more: Beyond Machu Picchu, 5 authentic ways to experience Peru

Hiking around Puno and Lake Titicaca

This stunning lake straddles the border between Peru and Bolivia at an altitude of 3,800 meters, and it is known for having thin air, so major hikes are hard work. There are, however, some great shorter hikes on the shores of the lake and on the islands. From Puno, an interesting and accessible area for walking is the Sillustani archeological site, with relics dating back to pre-Incan times. Explore the circular funerary towers left behind by the Qulla civilization while hiking in the area and enjoying the amazing views of the lake.

Hiking in Arequipa

One of the most spectacular areas to hike in the whole country is located a couple of hours’ drive from Arequipa: the Cotahuasi Canyon, a majestic gorge that cuts down to double the depth of the Grand Canyon. Between Cotahuasi Canyon and neighboring Colca Canyon, there are plenty of hikes to choose from, including shorter day hikes right through to multi-day treks. Highlights include the awe-inspiring scenery, the local culture, river views, waterfalls, and for lucky hikers, the mighty Andean Condor.

Make it happen

If, like many hiking enthusiasts, you have your sights set on the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu or any of the other incredible hiking trails in Peru, look no further. With up-to-the-minute local expertise on your side, TravelLocal’s handpicked partners are the ideal people to help plan your adventure. Share a few details and they’ll create a bespoke itinerary tailored to your trekking goals and preferences.