The 5 Best Places to Go Hiking in Cusco

Cusco, the ancient capital of the Inca Empire, is much more than the gateway to Machu Picchu. Surrounded by snow-capped mountains, deep valleys, and trails that the Incas built centuries ago, this region has become one of South America’s great trekking paradises. Here, every hike combines high-altitude landscapes, living archaeology, and Andean communities that keep their traditions intact.

If you love hiking and are looking for an unforgettable experience, you have come to the right place. In this guide we bring together the five best routes for hiking in Cusco, from the classic Inca Trail to the remote heights of Ausangate. Each one has its own level of difficulty, its duration, and its particular charm, so you can choose the one that best suits your fitness level and what you dream of discovering in the Peruvian Andes.

Why Go Trekking in Cusco?

Few places in the world offer the variety of settings you will find in Cusco. Within a single region you can cross cloud forests, traverse mountain passes at more than four thousand meters above sea level, gaze at glaciers, and descend into warm valleys full of vegetation. Added to this natural diversity is a unique component: the chance to walk along original stretches of the Qhapaq Ñan, the extensive network of roads that connected the entire Tahuantinsuyo.

Hiking in Cusco is not just a physical activity, but a cultural and historical journey. Each trail connects the traveler with ancient ceremonial centers, Inca ruins, and communities that still preserve their ancestral way of life. Whether you are a beginner looking for a one-day route or an experienced hiker seeking a great challenge, there will always be a trail waiting for you in Cusco.

The 5 Best Places for Hiking in Cusco

Below we present the routes most recognized and valued by travelers who come to Cusco. All of them stand out for their stunning landscapes, but each one offers a different experience. Take note of their main features to decide which one best fits your plans.

1. Inca Trail to Machu Picchu

The Inca Trail is, without question, the most famous trekking route in South America. Over four days and approximately forty kilometers, the trail follows the original path the Incas built to reach Machu Picchu, crossing archaeological remains, stone tunnels, and landscapes that change with every step. The highest point of the route is the Warmiwañusca pass, known as Dead Woman’s Pass, which rises above four thousand two hundred meters.

This is a demanding hike, with steep sections and numerous descents, though it has several resting points along the way. The great reward comes at dawn on the final day, when the traveler crosses the Sun Gate and gazes upon the citadel of Machu Picchu from above. It is important to remember that this route requires permits that sell out quickly, so it is best to book several months in advance. The classic Inca Trail remains closed throughout the entire month of February for maintenance work.

2. Salkantay Trek

The Salkantay Trek is the most popular alternative to the classic Inca Trail, and many travelers choose it for the impressive diversity of landscapes it offers. Over five days, the route travels through settings that range from snow-capped peaks and high-altitude lagoons to warm valleys and areas of jungle vegetation near Santa Teresa. The great protagonist of this hike is the Salkantay peak, a sacred mountain that rises above six thousand two hundred meters and dominates the horizon throughout much of the journey.

This route is ideal for those who want a complete adventure and were unable to secure a spot on the Inca Trail, since it does not require special permits. It combines physical challenge with a scenic variety that is hard to match, and it usually culminates with a visit to Machu Picchu. Without a doubt, it is one of the most recommended hikes for those seeking to experience the magic of the Andes in all its breadth.

3. Ausangate Trek and the Rainbow Mountain

For the most experienced hikers, the Ausangate Trek represents one of the region’s greatest challenges. This five-to-six-day route circles the imposing Ausangate mountain, considered one of the most sacred tutelary deities or apus of the Andes, and reaches some of the highest passes in the country. Along the way you will find turquoise-toned lagoons, glaciers, hot springs, and Andean wildlife such as alpacas, llamas, and vizcachas.

One of the great attractions of this route is the possibility of including a detour to the famous Rainbow Mountain, also known as Vinicunca, whose mineral bands paint the slope in reddish, golden, and turquoise tones. Due to its altitude and isolation, the Ausangate is a hike recommended for those who already have good acclimatization and experience in mountain trekking. The best time to hike it is the dry season, between April and October.

4. Lares Trek

The Lares Trek is the perfect option for those seeking a deep cultural immersion in addition to natural beauty. Over three to four days, this route passes through traditional Andean villages where time seems to have stood still, allowing the traveler to get a close look at the daily life of the high-Andean communities, their weavings, and their ancestral customs. The landscape combines mountain lagoons, green valleys, and spectacular views of the mountain range.

Unlike other routes, the Lares Trek does not lead directly to Machu Picchu, but it can be combined with a train ride to Aguas Calientes to finish the adventure by visiting the citadel. It is a hike of moderate difficulty, ideal for travelers who value human connection and cultural exchange as much as the natural settings.

5. Choquequirao Trek

Choquequirao is one of the most impressive Inca archaeological complexes in the region, located high on a mountain and with architecture so similar to Machu Picchu that it is popularly known as its sacred sister. Getting there is a true challenge, since it can only be reached on foot after a demanding multi-day journey marked by steep ascents and descents.

Precisely because of its difficult access, Choquequirao receives very few visitors, which guarantees an experience of calm and isolation hard to find on other more crowded routes. For lovers of archaeology and adventure, hiking to this ancient site is one of the most memorable experiences Cusco has to offer. The dry season is the most suitable time to hike this demanding trail.

Recommendations for Your Hike in Cusco

Before setting off on any of these routes, it is essential to keep in mind a few aspects that will make a difference in your experience. The most important is altitude: Cusco sits at a high elevation, so dedicating your first few days to acclimatization is essential to avoid altitude sickness. Take your time before undertaking any demanding trek.

The best time to go hiking in Cusco is the dry season, which runs from May to September, when the trails are firm and the skies are clear. Always bring warm clothing in layers, sun protection, good trekking footwear, and enough water. In addition, for routes such as the Inca Trail it is mandatory to have permits and to complete the route with an authorized agency, so plan ahead to secure your spot.

Experience the Adventure of Trekking in Cusco With Us

Exploring the trails of Cusco is one of the most rewarding experiences you can have in Peru, and at Machu Picchu Viajes Peru we want to accompany you every step of the way. Our team offers personalized guidance to choose the ideal route based on your level, your dates, and your expectations, as well as handling all the logistical details so that you only have to worry about enjoying yourself. Contact us and start planning the hike you have always dreamed of through the heart of the Andes.