Cusco, a magical city perched high in the Peruvian Andes, beckons adventure seekers with its breathtaking landscapes and rich history. If you’re yearning to explore the great outdoors while uncovering ancient treasures, you’re in the right place. In this guide, we’ll unveil the 25 best hikes in Cusco, taking you on an unforgettable journey through the heart of the Andes.
The Short Inca Trail offers a one-day hiking experience covering a distance of 15 km with an elevation of 2700 meters. But some people cover it in two days if you want to go further to Machu Picchu.
The Inca Trail is an ideal option for those with limited time. The night before the hike, you’ll receive a briefing from your guide from Hello Peru Tours. They will provide important details like what to bring and the expected duration of the hike.
Let’s break down the first day:
The second day of the Short Inca Trail is dedicated to exploring Machu Picchu and climbing either Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain. Short Inka Trial is one of the best hikes in Cusco for all types of travelers to Peru.
The Classic Inca Trail to Machu Picchu is a legendary trek that weaves through breathtaking mountain scenery and lush cloud forests. This trail offers an unparalleled adventure that culminates in the awe-inspiring Machu Picchu.
The Inca Trail to Machu Picchu is the most renowned hiking trail in South America, attracting adventurers from across the globe. This 4-day journey takes you through hand-hewn stone stairs, past Inca ruins, and alongside rare orchids and diverse bird species.
The trail includes three challenging mountain passes, with the “Dead Woman’s Pass” standing out as a test of endurance. But every step is worth it as you enter the ruins of Machu Picchu, often at sunrise, for a truly magical experience.
Come prepared with cold-weather clothing as temperatures drop at higher altitudes to make the most of your Inca Trail adventure.
Altitude sickness can be a concern, so consider chewing coca leaves, a local remedy. All these make it one of the best hikes in Cusco, Peru.
The Ausangate Trek is not for the faint-hearted. It’s a challenging high-altitude journey that takes you through 70 kilometers of the awe-inspiring Cordillera Vilcanota mountain range. This trek offers some of Peru’s most extraordinary scenery, including Ausangate Mountain, which the Quechua people consider one of the holiest in the Andes.
The Ausangate Trek is a trek for seasoned hikers. You should have experience hiking at high elevations. The route winds through the Cordillera Vilcanota, showcasing Andean vistas, thermal lakes, glaciers, and green passes.
Watch for remarkable wildlife like condors, chinchillas, and vicunas as you trek. You’ll also encounter hidden Andean villages steeped in centuries-old traditions, providing a unique cultural experience amidst the natural beauty.
For the best experience, plan your Ausangate trek between May and September, which marks the dry season in the Andes.
During this time, you can enjoy sunny weather and clear skies. July and August are the driest months, making them ideal for trekking, although it can get crowded.
Rainbow Mountain, also known as Vinicunca, is a natural wonder that showcases the vibrant colors of the rainbow. It’s a stunning sight that’s become Instagram-famous, and you can experience it on the Ausangate Trek.
The Rainbow Mountain trek can be completed in just half a day, making it accessible to most adventurers. The trailhead is a 3-hour drive from Cusco, followed by a 3-4 hour trek through challenging terrain.
Be prepared for high altitudes during the Rainbow Mountain trek, with elevations exceeding 15,000 feet above sea level. Altitude sickness is a concern, so choose a reputable tour operator equipped with oxygen tanks for safety.
Arriving at Cerro Vinicunca, the main rainbow-colored peak, provides ample opportunities for stunning photos. Not only will you witness the rainbow mountain, but you’ll also glimpse Ausangate, the highest mountain in the region, held sacred by locals.
If you’re looking for an incredible day trip from Cusco, the Humantay Lake Hike is a fantastic choice. The trail covers about 7.5 km and takes approximately 1.5 hours to hike up and 1 hour to descend.
In comparison, Rainbow Mountain requires a longer trek, about 2 hours up and 1–1.5 hours to return, partly due to the higher altitude. This short out-and-back trail is of moderate difficulty, making it accessible to many hikers.
While Rainbow Mountain is famous, have you heard of Palccoyo? It’s another mountain filled with beautiful colors but not as well-known. Located in the Cusco department, you can explore it on a day trip from Cusco.
Palccoyo Mountain boasts vibrant colors; the highest point you’ll reach is a chilly 4,900 meters above sea level. To get there, you can arrange transportation to Combapata, followed by a short walk to the mountain.
But worry not, we can arrange tours to the best hikes in Cusco so you start trekking hassle-free. You should also book with us because you don’t want to be on your own in the adventure. Getting an experienced help is always the best.
While the classic Inca Trail is famous, there’s another exciting option – the Quarry Trail. This four-day trek covers about 26 km and reaches a maximum altitude of 4,450 meters above sea level. It offers stunning Andean scenery and archaeological sites, such as the Q’orimarca ruins, with fewer crowds than the Inca Trail.
The Quarry Trail takes you through beautiful Andean landscapes, including lush green peaks, granite boulders, charming villages like Socma, and historic sites like Q’orimarca. You’ll also enjoy panoramic views of the Nevado Veronica mountain and picturesque valleys.
For a quieter experience, visit during shoulder seasons like May or October. Peak times coincide with the Inca Trail – June, July, and August – offering great weather but more crowds. However, you’ll still have the Andes to yourself for much of the journey.
Trekking these trails requires good fitness, especially at high altitudes. It’s essential to acclimatize in Cusco before the journey. Be sure to stay hydrated, take it slow, wear suitable gear like polarized sunglasses and comfortable boots, and pack essential items like a daypack, first-aid kit, and travel documents.
Imagine embarking on a two- or three-day adventure in the high mountains of Cusco, Peru, starting near the charming village of Lares.
This journey, known as the Lares Trek, takes you through the heart of the Lares Valley, a place bursting with traditional Andean culture.
The Lares Valley, nestled in the Urubamba mountain range, is a treasure trove of traditional weavers and farmers. The people here speak both Quechua and Spanish, preserving ancient traditions while embracing modern life.
To reach the start of this trek, you’ll take a scenic bus or van ride from the village of Lares, which lasts about five hours.
While the Inca Trail might be on everyone’s bucket list, the Lares Trek offers a quieter and equally rewarding experience.
Unlike the Inca Trail, you don’t need permits for this journey. It’s slightly shorter and higher in altitude than its famous counterpart, with the highest pass reaching 4,400 meters (14,400 feet) above sea level.
Most travelers choose the Lares Trek because it’s a fantastic alternative to the Inca Trail. But what makes it special is the blend of nature, history, and local culture.
The journey begins in Cusco and leads to the soothing Lares Hot Springs, allowing you to relax before hitting the trail.
As you trek through the picturesque landscapes, you’ll come across Quechua communities like Quiswarani and Canchachanca. Interacting with the locals and learning about their way of life is a highlight of this adventure.
While the Lares Trek isn’t as famous as the Inca Trail, it still leads to the iconic Machu Picchu. After your trek, you’ll take a train from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes, where you’ll spend a day exploring the Lost City of the Incas.
The Salkantay Trek covers about 74 km and typically takes 4-5 days, including a visit to Machu Picchu. It’s a historical route once used by the Incas.
The Salcantay Trek is considered moderately difficult, with challenging sections. While it’s suitable for all hikers, beginners might need some training. You’ll be hiking at high altitudes, sometimes over 15,000 feet above sea level.
Also, the route follows a traditional Inca path, with plenty of ruins to explore. You’ll pass through local villages and get to know the customs and traditions of the Quechua people.
The Inka Jungle Trail in Cusco is perfect for those seeking an adrenaline-pumping journey to Machu Picchu. This trail combines trekking, mountain biking, rafting, and zip-lining, offering a unique way to experience the Andes.
The Inka Jungle Trail is the most entertaining way to reach Machu Picchu. It kicks off with a mountain biking adventure from an altitude of 4,350 meters, descending to 1,900 meters.
You’ll explore Inca ruins, witness waterfalls, and meet local settlers along the way. As you hike through the jungle, you’ll also experience rafting and zip-lining, adding an extra layer of excitement. This trail, known as the Qapaq Ñan, leads you through various activities, making it an unforgettable adventure.
One of the highlights of the Inka Jungle Trail is a visit to the Amazon. You’ll have the chance to soak in therapeutic hot thermal baths, with temperatures ranging from 40ºC to 44ºC, providing relief for ailments like rheumatism and skin problems.
Hidden high in the Quriwayrachina mountain range of Peru, Choquequirao is a real gem waiting to be discovered. Accessible only on foot, this trail offers a challenging 8-day hike through rugged terrain and dense cloud forests.
Choquequirao is often referred to as the ‘Cradle of Gold’ and is three times larger than Machu Picchu.It’s one of the top treks in Cusco without a doubt.
During your trek, you’ll have a full day to explore this ancient Inca city, which includes ceremonial platforms, palaces, terraces, ritual baths, and temples dedicated to nature.
Camp at a beautiful terraced coffee plantation during your Choquequirao adventure. It’s a rare opportunity to stay amidst the stunning Andean coffee fields. You might even get a behind-the-scenes tour of the plantation.
The Choquequirao Trail takes you through the breathtaking Yanama Pass, standing at 4,660 meters above sea level. From here, you’ll be treated to stunning views of the Vilcabamba mountain range and the remarkable Andean scenery.
Imagine a short and easy trek near Cusco, ideal for those with limited time or seeking a gentle hike. Most tours offer a two-day schedule with camping and a visit to Machu Picchu on the third day.
Huchuy Qosqo, meaning ‘Small Cusco’ in Quechua, is an Incan archaeological site above Lamay in the Sacred Valley. It can only be reached on foot or horseback. But it’s one of the best treks in Cusco without a doubt.
Even during peak tourist season, fewer than 50 people visit these ruins each day, providing a unique opportunity to explore Inca history without the crowds. The trek follows parts of the original Inca pathways restored under the Qhapaq Ñan Project.
Imagine going on a day-long adventure to a place called Waqrapukara, which means Horn Fortress in Quechua. It’s a special site in Peru with massive rock formations that have been shaped over millions of years.The rock layers at Waqrapukara tell a story of our planet’s long history, and the site is surrounded by vast agricultural terraces. It’s like stepping into a time machine to learn about the Earth’s evolution.
Waqrapukara is not as famous as some other places in Cusco, making it an excellent choice for travelers looking for unique experiences. You’ll explore ancient history while surrounded by breathtaking natural beauty.
During your journey, you’ll encounter a wide variety of plants and animals, each with its unique charm. Waqrapukara tours are perfect for those who want to make the most of their time and create wonderful memories.
The Maras Salt Mines and Moray Inca ruins are two amazing places you can explore in Peru’s Sacred Valley. Imagine hiking through this beautiful valley surrounded by tall mountains. It feels like you’ve stepped back in time.
These two places are so special that you must visit them when you’re in the Sacred Valley. The best part is that you can do it on your own without a tour. This way, you can take your time, enjoy the scenery, and save money too!
The hike is mostly flat, which means you won’t have to walk up steep hills. But remember, the altitude here is high, over 11,000 feet, so even small inclines can feel tough on your lungs.
You can reach these sites using public transportation. There are signs along the way, and you can even download a map to help you explore more of Peru’s Sacred Valley.
Imagine embarking on a two-day trek to one of the most famous places in the world: Machu Picchu! This adventure includes some of the most stunning landscapes you can imagine.
The Inca Trail is world-famous for its natural beauty, and this route includes part of it. You’ll see mountains, forests, and even mysterious archaeological sites along the way.
During this trek, you’ll connect with nature and experience different types of environments, from deserts to tropical areas. You’ll also discover ancient ruins hidden among the lush vegetation.
If you missed out on the Inca Trail, don’t worry! The Ancascocha Trek to Machu Picchu is another incredible option. It’s a four-day trek through the Cordillera Vilcabamba foothills.
This trek offers stunning natural beauty, Andean village life experiences, glacial lakes, and ancient ruins. You’ll hike on 90% original Inca trail, which is well-preserved and less crowded.
The trek includes a pass higher than the Inca Trail’s highest point and daily hikes of 7 to 8 hours. You’ll also have the chance to take a train to Machu Picchu on the last day of your adventure.
Imagine reaching a place called the Sun Gate, which offers a fantastic view of Machu Picchu. It’s located near Machu Picchu Mountain and sits at 2,720 meters above sea level.
In Inca times, the Sun Gate served as a control gate for people entering or leaving Machu Picchu. To get there, you’ll need to follow signs inside Machu Picchu and walk for about 1.5 to 2 hours.
Whatever trek you choose, each offers a unique adventure in Peru’s stunning landscapes. Whether exploring ancient ruins or hiking through breathtaking scenery, these experiences will leave you with unforgettable memories.
The Vilcabamba Trek offers remote high-altitude trails in the same area where the Inca civilization made its last stand.
On the first day, you’ll visit significant Inca ruins like Vitcos-Rosapata and Ñustahispana (the ‘White Rock’).
This trek is less common, so you won’t encounter many other tourists. The route offers breathtaking mountain scenery, taking you across at least seven passes over 4,000 meters.
The adventure culminates with a visit to Machu Picchu on the last day, making it even more special. However, this trek is challenging due to high altitudes, and you must be cautious about altitude sickness.
DAY HIKES IN CUSCO
