10 Best Multi-Day Hikes And Treks In Peru’s National Parks
Peru offers a hiker’s paradise where ancient civilizations and breathtaking landscapes converge. From misty Andean peaks to lush cloud forests, the country’s diverse terrain provides world-class hiking experiences.
What makes Peru special is its blend of pristine wilderness, indigenous cultures and ancient history. Ancient Inca stone paths wind through mountain passes, connecting archaeological wonders that dot the spectacular Andean highlands of Peru.
Peru’s hiking trails offer transformative journeys for all types of adventurers. This guide explores Peru’s top ten multi-day hiking trails, with options to plan your own hiking trip or book a guided trekking adventure.
1. The Inca Trail to Machu Picchu
The legendary Inca Trail represents the ultimate historical trek to one of the natural wonders of the world. This meticulously engineered stone pathway leads through diverse ecosystems and archaeological sites before reaching magnificent Machu Picchu.
The 43-kilometer journey begins in the Sacred Valley of Peru and passes through cloud forests filled with orchids and exotic birds, alpine tundra with panoramic mountain views, and ancient Inca ruins.
The Inca Trail offers more than just a destination—it’s a perfectly choreographed journey. Each day builds anticipation for the grand finale: entering Machu Picchu through the Sun Gate at sunrise.
Key Details
- Length: 43 km (26.7 miles)
- Duration: 4 days/3 nights
- Difficulty: Moderate to challenging
- Maximum Altitude: 4,215 m (13,828 ft) at Dead Woman’s Pass
- Best Time: May to September (dry season)
- Permits: Required and limited to 500 people daily
- Highlights: Cloud forests, multiple Inca ruins, Machu Picchu
Permits sell out months in advance, especially for peak season. All hikers must join an authorized tour operator, with prices ranging from $600-$1,000 depending on services.
Day two presents the greatest challenge—a steep ascent to Dead Woman’s Pass that tests endurance and altitude adaptation. Acclimatize in Cusco for 2-3 days before starting.
Camping facilities are basic but adequate at designated scenic locations. Tour operators provide tents, meals, and porters. Weather can be unpredictable even in the dry season, with cold nights at higher elevations.
2. Salkantay Trek
The Salkantay Trek offers a more rugged alternative to the Inca Trail. Named after majestic Salkantay Mountain (6,271 m), considered a deity by locals (the name is a Quechua word meaning savage or invincible mountain) this trek immerses you in the sacred geography of the Peruvian Andes.
What makes Salkantay extraordinary is its remarkable ecological range. You begin the trek in the high Andean plateau, descend through multiple climate zones, and end in semi-tropical terrain with coffee plantations and colorful butterflies.
Without permit limitations, Salkantay remains less crowded than the Inca Trail because it is a much more challenging trek for experienced hikers. The hiking route offers authentic encounters with Indigenous communities along the way who maintain their traditional language, cultural and agricultural practices.
Key Details
- Length: 74 km (46 miles)
- Duration: 4-5 days
- Difficulty: Challenging
- Maximum Altitude: 4,630 m (15,190 ft) at Salkantay Pass
- Best Time: April to October
- Permits: No advance permits needed
- Highlights: Mountain views, Humantay Lake, diverse ecosystems, Machu Picchu
This trek’s accessibility without permits makes it perfect for flexible itineraries. Tours range from $350-$600, with premium options offering “glamping” experiences.
The crossing of Salkantay Pass on day two combines high altitude with steep terrain—the trek’s most challenging section. Temperature variations require careful layering, from near-freezing at the pass to warm humidity in lower valleys.
Accommodation varies from basic camping to comfortable lodges. The final night in Aguas Calientes offers hot springs—perfect relief before visiting Machu Picchu.
3. Ausangate Trek
The Ausangate Trek offers Peru’s most spectacular high-altitude adventure. Circling majestic Ausangate Mountain (6,384 m), which is the highest peak in the Cusco region and sacred in Andean cosmology (it translates from Quechua as “the father of all mountains“), this multi-day trek showcases geological wonders, including the famous Rainbow Mountain.
Unlike hiking treks focused on archaeological sites, Ausangate delivers pure wilderness. Glaciers descend from towering peaks, turquoise lakes reflect the sky and natural hot springs provide relief for weary hikers.
For centuries, Ausangate has been revered by Quechua communities as a powerful deity. Trekkers often encounter local herders with alpaca and llama flocks, offering glimpses into an indigenous lifestyle largely unchanged for centuries.
Key Details
- Length: 70 km (43.5 miles)
- Duration: 5-6 days
- Difficulty: Challenging to difficult
- Maximum Altitude: 5,200 m (17,060 ft) at Palomani Pass
- Best Time: May to September
- Permits: No permits required
- Highlights: Rainbow Mountain, turquoise lakes, hot springs, glaciers
Ausangate is one of Peru’s most challenging hikes as the entire route stays above 4,000 meters. Proper acclimatization is essential, with at least 3-4 days in Cusco recommended before starting this multi-day hike.
The remote trail offers minimal facilities. Camping is the only accommodation option, with basic sites near lakes or in sheltered valleys. This isolation means difficult emergency evacuation.
Temperatures often drop below freezing at night, even during the dry season. Snowfall is possible year-round at higher elevations. These challenges are balanced by extraordinary rewards with awe-inspiring night skies revealing the Milky Way.
4. Huayhuash Circuit
The Huayhuash Circuit stands as Peru’s premier wilderness trek for serious mountaineers. This epic journey circles the compact but spectacular Cordillera Huayhuash, a mountain range that gained international recognition through Joe Simpson’s survival story “Touching the Void.“
The multi-day hiking circuit offers consistently dramatic mountain scenery. Seven summits exceed 6,000 meters, turquoise lakes lie beneath towering peaks and imposing glaciers descend into dramatic valleys.
This multi-day trek takes you deep into Peru’s backcountry and this remote circuit preserves a genuine sense of exploration for experienced hikers looking for an unforgettable challenge. The circuit’s challenging nature—crossing multiple high passes at consistently high altitudes—creates a powerful sense of accomplishment.
Key Details
- Length: 130 km (81 miles)
- Duration: 8-12 days
- Difficulty: Difficult
- Maximum Altitude: 5,100 m (16,732 ft) at multiple passes
- Best Time: May to September
- Permits: Yes, obtainable locally
- Highlights: Mountain scenery, high passes, turquoise lakes, hot springs
Huayhuash demands serious preparation. The trek maintains high average altitude, with most campsites above 4,000 meters and multiple passes exceeding 4,800 meters.
Acclimatize for 3-4 days in Huaraz (3,050 m) before attempting the circuit, ideally including day hikes to higher elevations. The trek begins with a 4-5 hour drive from Huaraz to Llamac or Quartzelhuain.
All supplies must be carried in, either by trekkers or pack animals arranged through local guides. Weather conditions can be extreme, with freezing nights and occasional snowfall even during dry season.
5. Santa Cruz Trek
The Santa Cruz Trek offers the perfect introduction to multi-day Andean hiking. This balanced trek takes hikers through the heart of Huascarán National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
The trail’s genius lies in its efficient layout, showcasing diverse landscapes in just 3-4 days. Lush valleys with native quenuales, high-altitude passes with panoramic views, crystalline lakes reflecting surrounding peaks.
The centerpiece is stunning Punta Unión Pass (4,750 m), offering views of multiple 6,000m+ peaks, including pyramid-shaped Artesonraju, which is the legendary mountain in the Paramount Pictures logo.
Key Details
- Length: 50 km (31 miles)
- Duration: 3-4 days
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Maximum Altitude: 4,750 m (15,617 ft) at Punta Unión Pass
- Best Time: May to September
- Permits: Yes, entrance fee to Huascarán National Park
- Highlights: Punta Unión Pass, mountain views, emerald lakes, lush valleys
The trek begins in Vaquería and ends in Cashapampa (or vice versa). The traditional direction from Vaquería to Cashapampa offers a more gradual ascent to Punta Unión Pass.
The well-marked trail can be hiked independently by experienced trekkers. Guided services can be organized in the town of Huaraz and typically range from $300-$450 for a 4-day trek, including transportation, equipment, meals, and porters.
Weather patterns create clear mornings with potential afternoon clouds even during dry season. Nights at higher elevations can drop below freezing. The moderate altitude profile still requires proper acclimatization.
6. Choquequirao Trek
The Choquequirao Trek leads to what many archaeologists consider Machu Picchu’s equal, which is a massive Inca complex dramatically perched above the Apurímac River. The name translates as “Cradle of Gold” in Quechua.
The journey itself is remarkable as this multi-day hike follows a challenging route crossing one of the world’s deepest canyons. The dramatic topography creates a remarkable ecological progression from high-altitude terrain to lush cloud forests.
Choquequirao remains only partially excavated, with approximately 30-40% revealed and the rest still embraced by jungle. Among its most remarkable features are the Llamas del Sol, which are stone terraces adorned with white stone llama figures.
Key Details
- Length: 40-64 km (25-40 miles) round trip
- Duration: 4-5 days
- Difficulty: Moderate to challenging
- Maximum Altitude: 3,050 m (10,000 ft)
- Best Time: April to October
- Permits: No advance permits, entrance fee to site
- Highlights: Choquequirao ruins, Apurímac Canyon, stone llama carvings
The trek begins in Cachora, approximately four hours from Cusco by road. The traditional route is out-and-back, though ambitious hikers can continue to Machu Picchu on a challenging 7-8 day traverse.
The primary challenge lies in the topography. The trail descends approximately 1,500 meters to the Apurímac River, then climbs an equivalent distance to reach Choquequirao—a pattern reversed on the return journey.
Most hikers arrange their adventure through Cusco operators, with prices from $400-$700 for a standard 4-5 day trek. The Peruvian government has discussed plans for a cable car to make Choquequirao more accessible.
7. Colca Canyon Trek
The Colca Canyon Trek offers a unique perspective. Instead of climbing mountains, trekkers descend into one of the world’s deepest canyons, twice as deep as the Grand Canyon in some sections.
What distinguishes Colca Canyon is its combination of natural grandeur with living culture. The canyon is home to communities maintaining traditional agricultural practices on ancient terraces, some dating back over 1,500 years.
The canyon is renowned for its wildlife, particularly the Andean condor. These magnificent birds, with wingspans exceeding 3 meters, can be observed at close range from viewpoints like Cruz del Condor.
Key Details
- Length: 22-31 km (14-19 miles) depending on route
- Duration: 2-3 days
- Difficulty: Moderate to challenging
- Maximum Altitude: 3,500 m (11,483 ft) at the rim
- Best Time: May to November
- Permits: Entrance fee to Colca Canyon area
- Highlights: Canyon landscapes, condor viewpoints, traditional villages, oasis
The trek typically begins in Cabanaconda, approximately 3-4 hours from Arequipa. The standard route involves a steep 1,000-meter descent to the canyon floor on the first day, an overnight stay at the Sangalle oasis, and a challenging pre-dawn climb back to the rim on the second day.
For deeper cultural immersion, 3-day itineraries allow exploration of traditional villages like San Juan de Chuccho and Cosñirhua. The trek can be arranged through Arequipa operators ($150-$300) or done independently.
Weather varies significantly between day and night, with hot days and cool evenings. The microclimate at the canyon bottom is notably warmer than the rim, creating a pleasant environment for the oasis.
8. Laguna 69 Trek
The Laguna 69 Trek has become Peru’s quintessential day hike, offering an ideal balance of challenge and reward for travelers with limited time. This adventure leads to a stunning turquoise alpine lake nestled beneath snow-capped Chacraraju (6,112 m).
The vibrant blue color, created by mineral deposits from surrounding glaciers, creates a scene so picturesque it seems almost artificially enhanced. Laguna 69 is a natural masterpiece that has become one of Peru’s most photographed landscapes.
What makes this trek special is its efficiency in showcasing the Cordillera Blanca’s beauty in a single day. Begin in a valley with pastoral scenes, climb through increasingly dramatic terrain, and arrive at breathtaking Laguna 69. You can also do this as a multi-day trek if you want to experience more of Huascarán National Park.
Key Details
- Length: 14 km (8.7 miles) round trip
- Duration: 1 day (5-6 hours hiking)
- Difficulty: Moderate to challenging
- Maximum Altitude: 4,600 m (15,092 ft)
- Best Time: May to September
- Permits: Entrance fee to Huascarán National Park
- Highlights: Turquoise lake, snow-capped peak views, alpine scenery
The trek is typically done as a day trip from Huaraz, with early morning departure (5:00-6:00 AM) allowing sufficient time for the hike and return journey. Most visitors join organized tours including transportation to the trailhead.
The main challenge is the altitude as the entire route lies above 3,900 meters. This makes the hike significantly more strenuous than the distance suggests. Acclimatize for at least 2 days in Huaraz before attempting the trek.
The trail begins with a gentle valley walk before gradually increasing in difficulty. The final approach involves switchbacks that test endurance but are manageable for reasonably fit hikers. Weather changes rapidly in these mountains so make sure you bring layered clothing.
9. Rainbow Mountain Trek
The Rainbow Mountain (Vinicunca) Trek leads to one of Peru’s most visually striking natural phenomena that features a mountainside where mineral deposits have created surreal stripes of red, gold, green, and blue.
What makes Rainbow Mountain extraordinary is the story it tells about Earth’s geological processes. The vibrant colors result from different mineral deposits laid down over millions of years. These layers, once hidden beneath ice and snow, have been revealed by climate change.
The trek takes place in a high-altitude landscape that feels almost lunar in its stark beauty. The route offers expansive views of Ausangate Mountain (6,384 m), which is considered one of the most sacred peaks in Andean cosmology.
Key Details
- Length: 7.9 km (4.9 miles) round trip
- Duration: 1 day (3-4 hours hiking)
- Difficulty: Moderate to challenging
- Maximum Altitude: 5,200 m (17,060 ft)
- Best Time: May to October
- Permits: Entrance fee to Rainbow Mountain
- Highlights: Colorful mineral striations, Ausangate views, unique landscapes
Rainbow Mountain is typically visited as a day trip from Cusco, with very early departure (3:00-4:00 AM) allowing time for the 3-hour drive and the hike itself. Most visitors join organized tours including transportation, breakfast and a guide ($30-$80).
The primary challenge is extreme altitude, as the entire route lies above 4,500 meters, making this one of Peru’s highest day hikes. Proper acclimatization is essential, with at least 3 days in Cusco recommended.
The hiking trail is relatively short but strenuous due to altitude and sometimes muddy conditions. Horses are available for rent at the trailhead for most of the trail, though the final ascent must be completed on foot.
10. Lares Trek
The Lares Trek, often called the “Weavers Route,” offers perhaps the most authentic cultural immersion of any major Peruvian trek. While other routes focus primarily on natural beauty or archaeological sites, Lares takes hikers through living communities.
What makes Lares special is the opportunity for meaningful interactions with local communities. The route passes through remote villages where families create textiles using techniques passed down through generations.
The trek’s varied landscape encompasses high mountain passes, serene alpine lakes, lush valleys with traditional agriculture, and natural hot springs. This environmental diversity, combined with cultural encounters, creates a multidimensional experience.
Key Details
- Length: 33-41 km (20.5-25.5 miles) depending on route
- Duration: 4-5 days
- Difficulty: Moderate to challenging
- Maximum Altitude: 4,830 m (15,846 ft) at Sicllakasa Pass
- Best Time: May to September
- Permits: No advance permits needed
- Highlights: Traditional villages, local weavers, mountain landscapes, hot springs
Lares offers multiple route variations, with the classic version beginning near the town of Lares (2-3 hours from Cusco) and ending either at the Lares hot springs or continuing to Ollantaytambo for train connections to Machu Picchu.
The trek’s physical demands are moderate to challenging, with high passes testing endurance and acclimatization. The highest point on the traditional route is Sicllakasa Pass at 4,830 meters.
Most visitors arrange their Lares adventure through Cusco operators ($400-$700 for 4-5 days). The absence of permit limitations makes Lares an excellent alternative when Inca Trail permits are sold out.
Preparing for Your Peruvian Hiking Adventure
Peru’s best treks take place at elevations with significantly less oxygen than at sea level. Altitude sickness can affect anyone regardless of fitness level, making proper acclimatization your most important preparation.
Spend 2-3 days in Cusco (3,400 m) or Huaraz (3,050 m) before trekking, stay hydrated and avoid alcohol, and consider day trips to higher elevations, returning to sleep lower.
Medical approaches include acetazolamide (Diamox) to help prevent and treat mild altitude sickness and coca leaf tea, traditionally used throughout the Andes for altitude symptoms.
Peruvian treks demand specific physical preparation. Begin training 3-6 months before your trip, focusing on cardiovascular endurance, leg strength, and hiking-specific training.
The variable weather and temperature extremes of the Andes require thoughtful packing. Essential gear includes quality hiking boots, layered clothing system, sleeping gear for camping treks, appropriate backpack, sun protection, and hydration supplies.
Your trekking approach depends on your experience, preferences, and the specific route. Guided treks provide comprehensive support including transportation, equipment, meals, porters, and knowledgeable guides.
As visitors to Peru’s natural and cultural treasures, hikers have a responsibility to minimize their impact. Follow Leave No Trace principles, respect local customs, and support local economies.
Explore The Natural Wonders of Peru
Peru’s diverse hiking trails offer far more than physical challenges and scenic views, they provide journeys of transformation that connect travellers to the profound natural and cultural heritage of the Andes.
What makes Peru’s trekking experiences exceptional is their multidimensional nature: physical challenges of crossing high mountain passes, cultural experiences with descendants of the Inca and natural wonders from glacial lakes to cloud forests.
Each trail offers its own character and rewards. The Inca Trail provides historical resonance walking ancient pathways, Ausangate immerses trekkers in pristine high-altitude wilderness and Lares offers authentic cultural encounters with weaving communities.
As you plan your Peruvian adventure, consider combining famous highlights with less-traveled paths. Seek opportunities for cultural exchange that create genuine connections with local communities.
The mountains of Peru have shaped the cultures that inhabit them for thousands of years. By approaching these trails with respect, preparation, and openness to both challenge and wonder, you open yourself to experiences that may rank among life’s most profound adventures.
I have been running mindful hiking retreats for the last 7 years that integrate mindful awareness, experiential learning and community building practices.
I have been an experiential learning designer for over a decade through my company DIY Genius, which helps creative people productize their expertise.
I love flying my drone and sharing my adventures on my Instagram.
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