Cusco, the ancient capital of the Inca Empire, is much more than Machu Picchu. This magical region in southern Peru offers some of the most spectacular trekking routes in the world, where each trail tells a millennia-old story and every summit rewards you with breathtaking views. From challenging hikes to moderate routes, there’s an adventure for every type of traveler.
1. Classic Inca Trail to Machu Picchu
Duration: 4 days / 3 nights
Difficulty: Moderate to difficult
Maximum altitude: 4,215 m (Warmihuañusca Pass)
The most iconic trek in South America—and for good reason. This legendary 43-kilometer route follows the same path the Incas walked over 500 years ago. It’s not just a hike; it’s a journey back in time.
What makes this route special?
- Cross three high mountain passes with stunning panoramic views
- Discover over 20 hidden Inca archaeological sites
- Experience dramatic ecosystem changes: from Andean puna to subtropical cloud forest
- Arrive at Machu Picchu through the legendary Sun Gate (Inti Punku) at sunrise
- Walk on original Inca stone stairways carved centuries ago
Highlighted archaeological sites: Llactapata, Runkurakay, Sayacmarca, Phuyupatamarca, and Wiñay Wayna.
Important: Permits are limited (only 500 people per day, including guides and porters) and sell out months in advance. Book at least 6 months ahead, especially during peak season (May–September).
2. Salkantay Trek: The Sacred Mountain Route
Duration: 5 days / 4 nights
Difficulty: Difficult
Maximum altitude: 4,650 m (Salkantay Pass)
Considered by National Geographic as one of the 25 best treks in the world, the Salkantay Trek is the perfect alternative for those seeking extreme adventure without needing permits in advance.
What makes this route special?
- Face the imposing Salkantay snow-capped peak (6,271 m), regarded as an apu (sacred mountain) by the Incas
- Experience extreme climate contrasts: freezing temperatures to tropical heat
- Pass by the stunning turquoise Humantay Lagoon
- Descend into the high jungle through coffee, avocado, and tropical fruit plantations
- Enjoy natural hot springs in Santa Teresa
- End your adventure at Machu Picchu with fewer crowds than the Inca Trail
Ecosystems: High Andean puna, cloud forest, jungle fringe, and high jungle.
Fun fact: The name “Salkantay” comes from Quechua: “Salqa” (wild) and “Antay” (avalanche maker), showing the respect the Incas had for this mountain.
3. Lares Trek: Andean Cultural Immersion
Duration: 4 days / 3 nights
Difficulty: Moderate
Maximum altitude: 4,450 m (Ipsaycocha Pass)
For those seeking to deeply connect with the living culture of the Andes, the Lares Trek is your best option. This route takes you through Quechua communities where time seems to have stood still and ancestral traditions remain alive.
What makes this route special?
- Visit authentic Andean communities where Quechua is still spoken
- Observe traditional weaving techniques, alpaca herding, and ancestral agriculture
- Enjoy natural hot springs in Lares with medicinal properties
- Hike among turquoise and emerald Andean lagoons
- Interact with local families and learn about their Andean worldview
- Fewer tourists = a more intimate and authentic experience
Communities you’ll visit: Huacawasi, Patacancha, Quiswarani, where locals wear colorful traditional clothing and maintain Inca customs.
Perfect combination: Often combined with a train to Aguas Calientes and a visit to Machu Picchu.
Essential Tips for Your Trekking in the Cusco Andes
Acclimatization: Your Best Ally
Altitude is real and can ruin your experience. Plan at least 2-3 days in Cusco before starting any trek. Symptoms of altitude sickness include headache, nausea, fatigue, and dizziness. Coca tea is your friend.
Best Season for Trekkings
- Dry season (April-October): More stable weather, sunny days, cold nights. The best season, especially May-September.
- Rainy season (November-March): Greener landscapes, fewer tourists, but slippery trails and frequent rain. February: the Inca Trail closes for maintenance.
What to Pack in Your Backpack
- Layered clothing: Temperatures vary drastically between day and night
- Quality raincoat: Even in the dry season, showers can occur
- Trekking poles: Reduce impact on knees, especially during descents
- Sunscreen and UV glasses: The mountain sun is intense
- Personal first aid kit: Include altitude sickness medication (acetazolamide)
- Energy snacks: Nuts, chocolate, energy bars
- Ziplock bags: To protect electronics from moisture
- Power bank: Most campsites have no electricity
Hydration and Nutrition
Drink at least 3-4 liters of water per day. Dehydration worsens altitude sickness symptoms. Bring water purification tablets or a filter. Eat complex carbohydrates and avoid alcohol during the first few days.
Hire Responsible Operators
- Make sure they are certified and pay fair wages to porters
- Read recent reviews on reliable platforms
- Ask about environmental policies (Leave No Trace)
- Confirm exactly what the package includes (equipment, meals, entrance fees)
Cultural and Environmental Respect
- Do not leave trash; carry out everything you brought
- Respect archaeological sites: do not touch or climb on structures
- Ask for permission before photographing local people
- Buy crafts directly from communities
- Learn a few words in Quechua: locals appreciate it
Why Cusco is a Paradise for Trekkings
Cusco is not just a destination; it is a transformative experience. Each trail connects you with a 500-year-old history, each summit offers views that no photograph can capture, and every encounter with local communities reminds you of the richness of ancestral cultures that still thrive.
The Cusco Andes are an open-air living museum, where every carved stone tells the story of an extraordinary civilization. From the experienced hiker seeking extreme challenges to the casual traveler trying their first mountain trek, Cusco has the perfect route waiting for you.
Ready for your adventure? The mountains are calling. The apus await. Cusco is ready to show you why the Incas chose this place as the navel of the world.
