If you have already chosen Peru as your next destination and do not know which are the best multi-day treks in Peru, you risk missing out on epic treks. In the Andean country, the best treks are the classic Inca Trail, Salkantay trek, Lares trek, Huayhuash trek, Choquequirao trek, and Ausangate trek.
At Travel Peru Agency, we explain each one so you can choose the best option according to your expectations, physical condition, and travel date.
The Best Multi-Day Treks: A Quick Overview
| If you want… | Choose |
| The most iconic, cultural, and challenging experience to reach Machu Picchu on foot. You access archaeological sites that can only be reached by walking. This trek can only be done with an authorized professional guide who is permitted to visit the area. | Classic Inca Trail |
| High-mountain landscapes with more flexibility in travel dates. It is one of the few treks that you can do independently or with a guide. | Salkantay |
| Andean communities, textiles, and a more private experience. This trek has no fixed camping points or marked trails, so it is necessary to go with a guide. | Lares |
| Remote Inca ruins and a challenging hike. Despite its grandeur, it is less visited, so you need to book at least one month in advance. | Choquequirao |
| Glaciers, hot springs, turquoise lakes, and high altitude. Due to its challenging routes and impressive landscapes, this route should be done with a professional guide. | Ausangate |
| The most spectacular snow-capped mountains in the Andes. It requires very good physical condition and guidance from a professional team. It is considered one of the most beautiful treks in the world. | Huayhuash |
| Machu Picchu and the Peruvian Amazon in one trip. It is usually a trip of more than 4 days that allows you to see the highlights of Machu Picchu and the Amazon rainforest. | A short trek + Amazon tour |
Best Multi-Day Treks in Peru
1. Classic Inca Trail
It is considered one of the best treks in all of South America. The Inca Trail (Qhapaq Ñan) covered 6 countries in Latin America and is currently one of the best examples of Inca architecture and engineering.
The 4-day classic Inca Trail stands out as one of the most complete routes, reaching impressive places such as Sayaqmarca and Intipunku, before arriving at Machu Picchu surrounded by privileged views.
Learn about the key aspects you should know before booking:
- The most important rule: daily entries are limited to 500 people, so you must book at least 6 months in advance. Of the 500 entries, only 200 are allocated to tourists; the remaining entries are for cooks, porters, and guides.
- The Inca Trail closes in February for maintenance work.
- Permits are usually personal and non-transferable.
At Travel Peru Agency, we work directly with Inca Trail operating companies, which guarantees that your trek is well organized and safe. Book your next Inca Trail here.
2. Salkantay trek
The favorite route for those who prefer to combine high-mountain landscapes with the rainforest. It is one of the most popular alternatives to the Inca Trail. It is also one of the few trekking routes that you can do completely independently because along the way you will find places to camp as well as places to stay.
- You will go around the impressive Salkantay snow-capped mountain and visit impressive lakes such as Incachiriasqa, Humantay, and Qoyllor.
- You will experience the transition from cloud forest to Machu Picchu, walking along trails surrounded by flora and fauna.
Not sure if the Salkantay trek is right for you? Contact us and we will provide personalized advice.
3. Lares trek
The ideal option for those who want to combine culture with hiking. Compared to the Inca Trail and Salkantay trek, it is a less challenging option. In addition, it is the only trek to Machu Picchu that begins with a relaxing bath in hot springs.
- You will reach impressive snow-capped peaks such as Pituiray and Colque Cruz.
- You will visit turquoise lakes and Andean waterfalls.
- Along the trek, you will walk near alpacas and llamas, the protectors of the Andes.
Take the Lares Trek to Machu Picchu with us, make your reservation here.
4. Choquequirao trek
This Inca citadel, despite its grandeur, is little visited. It is one of the few trekking routes that crosses two departments, Apurimac and Cusco.
- It is one of the most challenging trekking routes that exists.
- Surrounded by cloud forest, along the way, with luck you may spot the Andean condor, Andean cock-of-the-rock, or spectacled bear (Andean bear).
- The most experienced trekkers choose to combine this route with Machu Picchu.
Embark on an adventure to Choquequirao with us, request a quote here.
5. Ausangate trek
Despite being one of the most beautiful trekking routes, it is one of the least visited in Cusco. This is because it is part of a high-mountain circuit.
- Complete the 7 Lakes circuit in the Pacchanta area.
- Immerse yourself in the local culture.
- Relax in the hot springs of Pacchanta.
This trek is available in small groups or private tours. Get a quote for the Ausangate trek here.
6. Huayhuash Trek
Near Lima, in Huaraz, it is recognized as one of the wildest, most beautiful, and spectacular treks in the world. It is a highly demanding circuit, so it is recommended for experienced trekkers. However, every route is totally worth it.
- Available in packages of 8 to 12 days.
- Characterized by its landscapes with turquoise lakes, glaciers, and imposing snow-capped peaks.
- For experienced hikers and summit enthusiasts, the complete itinerary allows you to summit peaks such as Nevado Diablo Mudo and Nevado Pumarinri.
7. Machu Picchu and the Peruvian Amazon
It is the only route that combines Machu Picchu and the Peruvian Amazon in Manu National Park.
- Visit the highlights of Cusco such as the Sacred Valley, Machu Picchu, the Red Valley with the 7 Colors Mountain.
- Visit the Manu Biosphere, recognized as a Natural World Heritage Site by UNESCO.
- Take part in activities such as birdwatching, sport fishing, and night walks.
Want to know more about this trek? See the complete itinerary here.
What alternative treks are recommended for beginners?
There are several alternatives. Here we tell you which ones you can do if you are a beginner.
- Inca Jungle Trek to Machu Picchu.
- Huchuy Qosqo trek.
- 4-day Manu Cultural Zone.
Stop reading about the best multi-day trekking experiences in Peru and experience the route your way. Request a personalized itinerary. Get a quote for your favorite trek from our advisors.
Frequently Asked Questions
How far in advance should I book my trek?
That depends on the destination.
- For most treks, if your destination is Machu Picchu, book at least 4 months in advance.
- If your destination is Machu Picchu but you want to do the classic Inca Trail, book 6 months in advance. We have reservations open for the 2027 Inca Trail.
- Trekking trips to places such as Choquequirao, Ausangate, and Manu can be booked a few weeks in advance.
- For the Huayhuash Trek, we recommend booking at least 2 months in advance.
What is the best trek to Machu Picchu for beginners?
The Lares trek to Machu Picchu.
How much does a multi-day trek in Peru cost?
There is no single price, as this depends on factors such as the duration of the trek in days, group size, route, and season. Therefore, we recommend comparing the itineraries and reading the inclusions before booking. At Travel Peru Agency, we have the best multi-day treks in Peru starting from USD 300 per person.
