Cusco

Freesolo Adventures / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY 2.0)

A remote, high-altitude circuit around the sacred Apu Ausangate mountain, featuring vibrant rainbow-colored mountains and massive glaciers. The trail is known for its stark, otherworldly beauty and encounters with local alpaca-herding communities.

Access. Starts from Tinki, reachable by road from Cusco; best done with a local guide due to the remote nature of the terrain.

Notes. Very high altitude, often exceeding 5,000 meters; requires excellent physical condition.

Cusco

Johnattan Rupire / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 4.0)

Often called the 'sister city' of Machu Picchu, this site is reached only by a grueling multi-day trek across a deep canyon. The trail is far less crowded, offering a raw, adventurous experience through varied ecosystems, from arid canyon walls to high-altitude cloud forest.

Access. Starts from Cachora, a village accessible by road from Cusco.

Notes. Physically demanding due to the massive descent and ascent required; less infrastructure than the Inca Trail.

Arequipa

Nad Hemnani santtd / Wikimedia Commons (CC0)

One of the world's deepest canyons, this area offers dramatic trekking routes that descend from the rim to the river floor and back up through terraced villages. The landscape is characterized by arid, steep walls, soaring Andean condors, and traditional mountain culture.

Access. Accessible via bus from Arequipa to Cabanaconde, the primary trailhead for canyon floor hikes.

Notes. Steep, strenuous terrain with significant elevation change; hot during the day and cold at night.

Amazonas

Martin St-Amant ( S23678 ) / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY 3.0)

A stunning hike through cloud forest leads to the base of one of the world's tallest waterfalls, which drops in two massive tiers. The trail is lush, humid, and teeming with diverse birdlife, including the elusive Andean Cock-of-the-rock.

Access. Trailheads are located near the village of Cocachimba or San Pablo, accessible from Chachapoyas.

Notes. The trail can be muddy and slippery; best visited during the drier season.

Ancash

TMbux / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 3.0)

Widely considered one of the most spectacular alpine treks in the world, this circuit circles the jagged, glaciated peaks of the Cordillera Huayhuash. Expect strenuous high-altitude trekking, turquoise glacial lakes, and massive snow-capped ridgelines.

Access. Typically starts from the town of Huaraz, requiring a multi-day guided expedition or experienced independent trekking logistics.

Notes. Extremely high altitude; requires significant physical fitness and acclimatization.

Cusco

Sergei A · Pexels

The most iconic trek in South America, this multi-day journey traverses high Andean passes and lush cloud forests before arriving at the Sun Gate. Hikers experience a blend of ancient stone-paved paths, dramatic mountain vistas, and historic archaeological sites.

Access. Requires a licensed guide and permit booked months in advance; starts from km 82 near Ollantaytambo.

Notes. Closed every February for maintenance; high altitude requires acclimatization in Cusco.

Ica

Petr Meissner / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY 2.0)

A unique coastal desert landscape where the arid dunes meet the Pacific Ocean. Trails here offer sweeping views of dramatic cliffs, secluded beaches, and abundant marine wildlife, including sea lions and migratory birds.

Access. Located near the town of Paracas; accessible by tour or private vehicle from the park entrance.

Notes. Very windy; limited shade, so sun protection is essential.

Ancash

TMbux / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 3.0)

A classic 4-day trek through the heart of the Cordillera Blanca, crossing the high Punta Union pass. The route showcases spectacular views of iconic peaks like Alpamayo and Taulliraju, alongside pristine alpine meadows and glacial lagoons.

Access. Starts from Vaqueria or Cashapampa, both accessible from the trekking hub of Huaraz.

Notes. High altitude; best done between May and September to avoid the rainy season.