Cusco, the ancient capital of the Inca Empire, offers some of the world’s most spectacular trekking routes. From short hikes to multi-day expeditions, this Peruvian region combines stunning Andean landscapes, unique archaeological sites, and exceptional biodiversity that attract adventurers from all over the globe.
Cusco’s geography presents an extraordinary variety of ecosystems, from sacred valleys to snow-capped peaks exceeding 6,000 meters in altitude. This diversity makes the region a paradise for trekking enthusiasts, offering experiences ranging from family-friendly walks to extreme challenges for experienced mountaineers.
In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the best trekking routes in Cusco, classified by their duration and difficulty, providing detailed information to plan your next Andean adventure safely and memorably.
Long Treks in Cusco
Long-duration treks in Cusco are true expeditions that require physical and mental preparation. These routes, which can extend between 3 and 8 days, offer the opportunity to fully immerse yourself in Andean culture and experience landscapes that change dramatically each day.
Inca Trail to Machu Picchu
The Classic Inca Trail is undoubtedly the most famous trekking route in South America. This 4-day, 3-night expedition follows the original paths built by the Incas over 500 years ago, culminating with sunrise at Machu Picchu from the Sun Gate.
The route covers 43 kilometers of stone-paved trails that traverse diverse ecosystems, from cloud forests to alpine tundra. The highest point of the journey is Warmiwañusca Pass (Dead Woman’s Pass) at 4,215 meters above sea level, considered the trek’s greatest physical challenge.
Important Note: Only 500 people per day can enter the Inca Trail, including guides and porters. It is essential to book 3-6 months in advance, especially for the dry season.
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Duration | 4 days / 3 nights |
| Distance | 43 kilometers |
| Maximum Altitude | 4,215 meters |
| Difficulty | Moderate to difficult |
| Best Season | May to September |
| Approximate Price | $600 – $800 USD |
Along the route, important archaeological sites such as Runkurakay, Sayacmarca, and Wiñay Wayna are visited, each with unique architectural features that demonstrate the Incas’ advanced engineering. The experience includes camping at specific locations with basic services and the company of guides specialized in history and archaeology.
Choquequirao
Known as the “sacred sister of Machu Picchu,” Choquequirao is one of the most challenging and rewarding treks in Cusco. This Inca citadel, built in the 15th century, remains much less visited than Machu Picchu, offering a more intimate and authentic experience.
The traditional trek to Choquequirao requires between 4 and 5 days, crossing the deep Apurímac River canyon. The route involves steep descents followed by steep ascents, with altitude changes ranging from 1,500 to 3,050 meters above sea level.
- Day 1: Cusco – Capuliyoc – Chiquisca (1,200-meter descent)
- Day 2: Chiquisca – Playa Rosalina – Marampata (crossing the Apurímac River)
- Day 3: Marampata – Choquequirao – Marampata (archaeological site exploration)
- Day 4: Marampata – Chiquisca (start of return)
- Day 5: Chiquisca – Capuliyoc – Cusco (final ascent)
Salkantay Trek
The Salkantay Trek is considered one of the best alternatives to the traditional Inca Trail. This 5-day route circles the majestic snow-capped Salkantay (6,271 meters), one of the most sacred mountains for the Incas, and ends with a train ride to Machu Picchu.
This trek offers an extraordinary variety of landscapes: it starts in dry puna ecosystems, crosses glacial mountain passes, descends into cloud forests, and finishes in the high jungle. The highest point is the Salkantay Pass at 4,630 meters above sea level.
Salkantay Advantage: No special limited permits are required, unlike the Inca Trail. It can be done year-round and offers more flexible travel dates.
A unique feature of the Salkantay Trek is the chance to enjoy natural hot springs at Cocalmayo, ideal for relaxing your muscles after intense hiking days. The route also passes through local communities where travelers can interact with Quechua families and learn about their ancestral traditions.
Ausangate
The Ausangate circuit is one of the most spectacular and demanding treks in the Peruvian Andes. This 6 to 7-day trek completely circles the Ausangate mountain (6,384 meters), the highest peak in the Cusco region and considered a sacred Apu (mountain spirit).
The Ausangate trek stands out for its pristine landscapes, including turquoise and emerald lagoons, hanging glaciers, natural geysers, and the famous rainbow mountains. The entire route is above 4,000 meters, with several passes over 5,000 meters.
| Day | Route | Maximum Altitude | Distance |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Tinqui – Upis | 4,450m | 12 km |
| 2 | Upis – Arapa Pass – Pucacocha | 4,850m | 16 km |
| 3 | Pucacocha – Ausangate Pass – Ananta | 5,200m | 18 km |
| 4 | Ananta – Palomani Pass – Jampa | 5,100m | 14 km |
| 5 | Jampa – Jampa Pass – Pacchanta | 5,040m | 15 km |
| 6 | Pacchanta – Hot Springs – Tinqui | 4,300m | 10 km |
Along the way, you may spot vicuñas, alpacas, llamas, and a wide variety of Andean birds. Local communities maintain a traditional lifestyle based on camelid herding and the cultivation of Andean tubers, offering an authentic view of contemporary Quechua culture.
Short Treks in Cusco
Short hikes in Cusco are ideal for travelers with limited time, families with children, or those who prefer less intense but equally rewarding experiences. These routes, which can be completed in a single day, offer spectacular landscapes and meaningful cultural experiences without requiring camping.
Rainbow Mountain Trek in Cusco
Vinicunca, also known worldwide as Rainbow Mountain, has become one of the most photographed destinations in Peru. This unique geological formation, located at 5,200 meters above sea level, owes its vibrant colors to the oxidation of various minerals deposited over millions of years.
The hike to Vinicunca begins in the village of Phulawasipata (4,600 meters) and requires about 3 hours of ascent on a well-marked trail. The total route is 6 kilometers round trip, with a 600-meter elevation gain that represents a moderate challenge for most visitors.
Altitude Tip: It’s recommended to spend at least 2-3 days in Cusco before attempting this trek to better acclimate. High altitude can cause symptoms of altitude sickness in unaccustomed individuals.
The most prominent colors include red (iron oxide), yellow (sulfur), green (chlorite), purple (goethite), and white (sandstone). The best time to appreciate these colors is during clear mornings when the sunlight enhances the mountain’s natural contrasts.
Palcoyo Rainbow Mountain Walk
Palcoyo is an excellent alternative to Vinicunca for those seeking a less crowded and physically demanding experience. This colorful mountain range offers equally impressive views but requires only a 45-minute walk from the starting point.
Palcoyo’s main advantage is accessibility: the trail is relatively flat, and the maximum altitude reaches 4,900 meters, 300 meters less than Vinicunca. From here, you also get panoramic views of the Ausangate glacier and the Stone Forest—natural rock formations that resemble giant sculptures.
- Total distance: 2 kilometers round trip
- Hiking time: Approximately 1.5 hours
- Difficulty: Easy to moderate
- Maximum altitude: 4,900 meters
- Best season: April to October (dry season)
Pallay Punchu Rainbow Mountain Trek
Pallay Punchu, which means “colored blanket” in Quechua, is the most recently discovered of the accessible rainbow mountains near Cusco. Newly introduced to tourism, this formation offers a more intimate and authentic experience, with colors some consider even more vibrant than Vinicunca.
The hike to Pallay Punchu begins in the village of Checacupe and requires approximately 2 hours of moderate ascent. The trail passes through traditional Andean landscapes where llamas, alpacas, and vicuñas are commonly seen grazing freely on mountain slopes.
A distinctive feature of Pallay Punchu is the presence of rock formations that create perfect natural frames for photography. Additionally, the lower number of tourists allows for a quieter experience and photo sessions without crowds.
Hike to Humantay Lake in Cusco
Humantay Lake is a turquoise gem nestled at 4,200 meters above sea level, at the foot of the majestic Humantay glacier. This glacial lake offers one of the most photogenic experiences in Cusco, combining intensely turquoise waters with a backdrop of snowy peaks.
The hike starts in Soraypampa (3,900 meters) and takes approximately 1.5 hours of uphill walking on a well-marked trail. The total route is 3 kilometers round trip, with a 300-meter elevation gain, representing a moderate challenge for most visitors.
Magical Moment: Early morning offers the best photography conditions, when the lake’s surface acts as a perfect mirror reflecting the Humantay glacier.
Humantay Lake is part of the Salkantay ecosystem and is considered sacred by local communities. It’s common to see small stone offerings (apachetas) left by visitors as a sign of respect for the Apus, or mountain spirits.
| Feature | Vinicunca | Palcoyo | Pallay Punchu | Humantay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Maximum Altitude | 5,200m | 4,900m | 4,800m | 4,200m |
| Hiking Time | 1.5 – 2 hours | 45 min – 1 hour | 3 – 4 hours | 1.5 – 2 hours |