Peru is one of the most impressive trekking destinations in the world. Its unique combination of Andean mountains, glaciers, turquoise lagoons, sacred valleys, and Inca vestiges makes each trek an experience that goes far beyond the landscape. It doesn’t matter if you are a beginner traveler or a lover of high mountain hiking: in Peru there is a route for you. In this article we show you the 5 most incredible treks in Peru, with real data for you to choose the one that best suits your travel style.
What are the 5 most amazing treks in Peru?
1. Inca Trail to Machu Picchu
The Inca Trail is the most famous trek in South America and one of the most coveted on the planet. It connects ancient Inca trails with archaeological ruins and ends, as a finishing touch, in Machu Picchu.
It lasts 4 days and covers approximately 42 km. Along the way, you will pass through mountains, high jungle and archaeological sites that cannot be visited in any other way. The highest point is the Abra Warmiwañusca (4,215 m), known as the Paso de la Mujer Muerta.
You could also take the opportunity to take a complete trip to the Sacred Valley. In our catalog of tours in this destination you can find all the options.
What makes it special is not only the arrival at Machu Picchu, but literally walking along the same routes that the Incas used more than 500 years ago. Places are limited, so it is essential to book in advance. In the article Sacred Valley of the Incas: what is there, where is it and why it is key in a trip to Peru you can find a complete guide to organize your trip to this destination.
2. Salkantay Trek
The Salkantay Trek is the best alternative for those looking for a wilder and less massive trek than the Inca Trail. It lasts between 4 and 5 days and crosses some of the most spectacular landscapes in the Peruvian Andes.
The highest point is the Salkantay Pass, at 4,650 meters above sea level, with direct views of the snow-capped Salkantay, one of the most imposing mountains in the country. During the hike you will cross glaciers, turquoise lagoons and green valleys.
It is ideal for active travelers looking for a more intense experience, without losing the final connection to Machu Picchu.
3. Lares Trek
The Lares trek is perfect for those who want to combine nature, Andean culture and rest. Unlike other trekkings, Lares ends in natural hot springs, a real luxury after several days of hiking.
The route crosses traditional communities where people still live in a very similar way to pre-Hispanic times. It’s not as crowded a hike, allowing for a more intimate and authentic experience.
It has a medium difficulty and is an excellent option for those who want to get away from the most massive tourist circuits without giving up high mountain landscapes.
4. Hike to the Humantay Lagoon
Although it’s a one-day hike, the Humantay Lagoon deserves to be on this list. It is a lagoon of turquoise waters located at the foot of a glacier, at an altitude of more than 4,200 meters.
The trek starts in Soraypampa and takes about 1.5 to 2 hours uphill. The reward is one of the most impressive views of Cusco. On the Humantay Lagoon Tour you can find a unique itinerary where you can find this experience.
It is an excellent option for those who do not have many days but want to live an intense and photogenic mountain experience.
5. Ausangate Trek
The Ausangate is the most challenging hike on this list and one of the most spectacular in Peru. It surrounds the snow-capped Ausangate, a sacred mountain for Andean cultures.
This 5 to 7-day trek crosses landscapes from another planet: multicolored mountains, red and green lagoons, glaciers and passes over 5,000 meters high.
It is not a tourist or comfortable walk. It is for adventurers who are looking for an extreme, almost spiritual experience, away from it all.
Comparison chart of the 5 best trekking in Peru
| Hike | Duration | Difficulty | Maximum height | Landscapes | Ideal for |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Inca Trail | 4 days | Media | 4,215 m | Inca ruins, jungle, mountains | Those who want history, archaeology and walking to Machu Picchu |
| Salkantay Trek | 4–5 days | Medium-high | 4,650 m | Glaciers, lagoons, snow-capped mountains | Active travelers looking for epic scenery and fewer crowds |
| Lares Trek | 3–4 days | Media | 4,400 m | Andean valleys, villages, hot springs | Those who want local culture and a quieter experience |
| Laguna Humantay | 1 day | Media | 4,200 m | Turquoise lagoon, glacier | Travelers short on time who want an intense experience |
| Ausangate Trek | 5–7 days | High | +5,000 m | Colorful mountains, glaciers, lagoons | Adventurers looking for extreme trekking and unique landscapes |
Peru is not only Machu Picchu: it is one of the countries with the greatest diversity of trekking routes in the world. From ancient Inca trails to high mountain circuits between glaciers and turquoise lagoons, each trek offers a different way to get to know the country, its history and its nature.
Choosing the right route doesn’t just depend on your physical level, but on the type of experience you’re looking for: adventure, culture, tranquility, or extreme challenge. The important thing is that, on any of these hikes, you are not just a tourist: you are part of the landscape, the rhythm of the mountain and a tradition that has been going on for centuries.
If you want your trip to Peru to be truly unforgettable, including one of these treks in your itinerary is the best decision you can make.
