The Different Treks in Peru

The treks to Machu Picchu

The Incan ruin site of Machu Picchu is something that’s certainly worth seeing in your lifetime. The site was built in the 15th century then left abandoned, and the use for it remains a mystery.

There are several different treks you can do to get to Machu Picchu.  No matter which trek you choose you will experience the Peruvian culture while trekking through stunning scenery.

The most popular is the Inca Trail which usually takes 4 days. The other options are the Salkantay trek, the Lares trek or the Choquequirao trek. You can read more about them all here, see how they compare and which one is right for you.

Jungle trek to Machu Picchu

If you’re looking for a slightly more adventurous, off the beaten path sort of trek, why not trek your way through the jungle to get to Machu Picchu? Here you’ll trek along the Urubamba river to Santa Teresa. Along the way you can try mountain biking, zip lining and relaxing in hot springs.

Find out more about this thrilling adventure in this guest blog.

The Lost City trek

Looking for something a little more unusual than the popular Machu Picchu trek? The Lost City trek will also take you to an ancient Inca ruin, the city of Choquequirao, the best preserved one after Machu Picchu. This is the perfect trek for anyone who wants to be a bit more off the beaten path and avoid the crowds of the Inca trail. The trek is also spectacular because of the varied nature along the way. Moving up and down through valleys, the climate changes from one day to the next as does the scenery. If you’re still not sure which trek to choose you can read our blog post here that compares the two treks.

The Huayhuash Circuit trek

If you’re after something slightly more challenging and long for those snow-capped mountain peaks, Peru’s Cordillera Huayhuash might be the trek for you. Certainly a mountain climbers dream come true, and located in one of the most remote sections of the Andes, it’s not the trek for beginners, but might just be the most spectacular of them all. If you’re after wilderness, challenging treks and sleeping under the stars, this might be the trek for you. You might even want to take the opportunity to trek to Machu Picchu first, then do this afterwards.

Alpamayo Circuit trek

The Cordillera Blanca mountain range in Peru might be one of the most stunning in the world, and the Alpamayo peak especially is breathtakingly beautiful. The range has over 50 peaks, is 170km long and here you can find the greatest concentration of tropical zone glaciers on earth - turquoise waters with giant vertical granite walls. Your campsites will overlook the glaciers below as you sleep under the stars. This trek is simply so beautiful you have to see it to believe it, providing endless photo opportunities. The Almamayo Circuit trek is perfect for anyone up for a more challenging, adventurous two weeks.