The 8 Most Amazing Hiking Trails in Peru

Featuring three distinct geographical regions – mountains, jungle, and arid coast – Peru is a dream destination for outdoor lovers, where every path leads to a stunning hiking experience.

Climbing the Andes at a steady rate rewards you with breathtaking high-altitude lakes of brilliant blue, while exploring the Amazon region reveals a stunning variety of wildlife and plant life away from the beaten path.

At a lower elevation and in a drier climate, the coastal desert near Lima boasts hidden treasures that cater to hikers of all experience levels.

Put on your hiking boots as we uncover the finest trails in Peru – from Machu Picchu to other breathtaking destinations.

1. Inca Trail to Machu Picchu

The quintessential hike in Peru 42 km (26 miles) one way, 3-5 days, challenging

The rugged, high-altitude ancient Inca Trail (Camino Inka) is renowned for its breathtaking scenery and culminates at the iconic Machu Picchu.

Beginning on relatively level ground from Kilometer 82, the classic path gradually climbs through valleys, Andean villages, and mountains, crossing rivers and passing smaller Inca ruins along the way.

The final ascent consists of a series of steps leading to the Sun Gate (Inti Punku), where hikers can finally glimpse Machu Picchu. After touring the site, many hikers spend the night in Aguas Calientes before taking the bus back.

To preserve the trail, a maximum of 500 people are permitted on the 15th-century path each day, with 300 spots reserved for guides and porters. Planning for this hike should begin months in advance (or even a year) due to two key factors: Inca Trail permits sell out rapidly, and with elevations exceeding 4200m (13,780ft) above sea level, proper training is essential.

2. Lost City of Choquequirao Trek

Top off-the-beaten-path hike 45km (28 miles), 4-5 days round-trip, demanding

Genuine and less crowded, Choquequirao offers a more demanding and secluded alternative to Machu Picchu for dedicated hikers eager to explore a path rich in Inca heritage.

Nestled in the Apurimac Valley, this archaeological site—translating to 'cradle of gold'—is thought to be three times larger than its more renowned counterpart and is accessible only on foot, free from the throngs of tour buses that visit Machu Picchu.

The journey begins at the Capuliyoq pass in Abancay, where trekkers descend into the depths of the Apurimac Canyon.

Terraced fields lining the canyon's namesake river gradually transition into a thrilling ascent from arid desert to lush high-altitude jungle as hikers make their way to the site. Upon reaching 3050m (10,006ft) above sea level, you can enjoy a stunning view of the remarkable ruins at eye level.

Less than half of what archaeologists believe remains of Choquequirao has been excavated, yet the twelve visible sectors spread across three hilltops are awe-inspiring—especially when shared with only a few fellow hikers, if any.

3. Lomas de Lúcumo

Ideal family hike 4km (2.5 miles), 2.5 hours round-trip, easy

Surprisingly, just an hour's drive from Peru’s desert capital, Lima, lies the gentle slopes of Lomas de Lúcumo. This unique area is created by a climatic phenomenon that captures ocean mist in the hills, bringing vibrant vegetation to life during the southern hemisphere’s winter months (June to September).

Follow the green expanse along the Los Guardianes trail, the shorter of two marked loops (the longer being the 6.5km Los Lúcumos). Along the way, you'll discover caves with intriguing markings, a rock climbing spot, and various wildlife (if the area isn’t too busy). It’s best to visit mid-week, as weekends can get crowded with students and families.

Situated in the Pachacamac district, this outdoor adventure can be combined with a trip to the Pachacamac archaeological site and a delicious chicharrón (fried pork) sandwich in the nearby town of Lurín.

4. Marcahuasi

Top camping getaway from Lima 8km (5 miles), 6-8 hours, challenging

With its surreal landscapes and striking rock formations, Marcahuasi is an enchanting spot for an overnight camping trip from Lima. The trailhead is about a six-hour drive from the city; although the hike itself isn’t very long and the path is well-marked, the main difficulty lies in adjusting to the altitude.

Perched at 4000m (13,123ft) above sea level, Marcahuasi features a naturally occurring stone forest adorned with fascinating carvings of faces and animals. Many locals believe it possesses healing properties, and the sight of a clear, star-filled night sky is truly breathtaking.

Given the quick elevation gain, it’s crucial for hikers of all levels to acclimatize before making the ascent to Marcahuasi. Horses and donkeys are available for rent upon paying the entrance fee of five Peruvian soles (S5) at San Pedro de Casta.

5. Laguna 69 Trek

Top day hike in Huaraz 13km (8 miles), 5-6 hours round-trip, moderate

Nestled in Huascarán National Park, Laguna 69 is among the most breathtaking spots in Peru—and perhaps all of South America—yet only a small number of tourists take the time to experience it. Surrounded by snow-capped peaks, the tranquil turquoise waters are incredibly beautiful and definitely worth the effort to reach.

The picturesque trek starts with a two-hour drive from the city of Huaraz in north-central Peru. Along the way, you’ll encounter livestock and cattle, cascading waterfalls, and charming meadows, all while being accompanied by the majestic peaks of Cordillera Blanca. The trail gradually ascends for most of the journey, but the final 30-40 minutes present a more challenging climb.

With Laguna 69 sitting at an elevation of over 4600m (15,091ft) above sea level, it's important to spend a day or two acclimatizing in Huaraz before your hike.

6. Full Circuit to Gocta Waterfalls

Top day hike in the northern Amazon 15km (9.3 miles), 6-8 hours round-trip, moderate

Gocta is one of the tallest waterfalls globally, gaining international recognition only in 2002. Cascading from the cloud forest in northern Peru’s Amazonas Region, this two-tiered waterfall stands at 771m (2530ft) and is surrounded by lush vegetation.

To see both the lower and upper falls, start your hike at the trailhead in San Pablo, just a short bus ride from Chachapoyas, where most travelers stay. The well-marked trail winds through small villages and coffee plantations, offering numerous viewpoints of canyons and deep valleys along the way.

While the trek to the upper fall provides a more picturesque experience, the complete view of Gocta from the base of the lower fall is unmatched. The loop concludes in Cocachimba, where you can find transportation back to Chachapoyas.

The ideal time to complete the full circuit to Gocta waterfalls is between April and June, right after the rainy season has ended and before tourist traffic increases.

7. Sangalle Trek to Colca Canyon

Best exploration of one of the world's deepest canyons 8km (5 miles), 2 days round-trip, moderate

The world’s second-deepest canyon, Cañón del Colca, is nestled among desert hills six hours from Arequipa city and is a soaring habitat for the majestic Andean condor. Numerous trails wind down the terraced slopes and back up the 3400m (11,155ft) deep canyon, linking small villages along the way.

While day hikes from the nearby town of Chivay to the hot springs are enjoyable, the experience of camping in the canyon floor should not be missed if time allows.

The Cabanaconde–Sangalle–Cabanaconde route is a popular yet scenic trail, with the village hidden in the canyon offering hikers comfortable overnight stays and refreshing swimming pools.

This hike is not overly extensive and can be tackled without a guide. It’s feasible to complete in one day, but the two-to-three-hour ascent from Sangalle Oasis (2150m/7053ft) back to Cabanaconde (3280m/10,761ft) is best done in the cooler morning hours. Regardless, be sure to carry plenty of water and sunscreen.

8. Cordillera Huayhuash

The ultimate mountain trekking adventure in Peru 120km (75 miles), 12 days, challenging

It has been four decades since Joe Simpson’s remarkable mountaineering tale, Touching the Void, was published, yet adventurers from all over the globe still flock to Peru to craft their own (ideally less perilous) stories along this iconic route.

With its stunning azure glacial lakes, Andean peaks draped in pristine snow, and an unexpected variety of flora and fauna, this nearly two-week trek takes you between 4000-5000m (13,123-16,404ft) above sea level, earning the Cordillera Huayhuash trek its reputation as one of the world's top hiking experiences.

Given the trek's significant length and high altitude, encounters with others are uncommon, aside from locals who inhabit the mountain range, often seen with their alpacas or llamas. Therefore, hiring a guide is highly advisable, regardless of your experience level.

Take time to acclimatize in Huaraz before embarking on your journey to Cuartelwain (a five-hour drive). Each day will involve an average of six hours of hiking until you reach Llámac. This circuit is best undertaken during the dry season, from May to September.