Peru is a major global destination for hiking and trekking of all kinds. All mountain towns, from Cusco and Ayacucho to Huaraz and Chachapoyas, have everything from easy half-day hikes to challenging multi-day treks.

But there are differences too: Cusco region treks tend to focus on visiting archeological sites, while treks near Huaraz in the Cordillera Blanca; and Arequipa are more about mountaineering and glaciers, with Arequipa’s added bonus of volcanos.

Difficulty

Multi-day treks require good fitness, both for the rugged, steep trails and for the altitude. Keep in mind that most trails were designed by the Inca and were part of the Qhapaq Ñan, the system of trails that linked most of South America. The trails were not necessarily designed to be the easiest way from point A to point B. They were a functional road system for people who lived at altitude and hiked the mountains every day of their lives.