Peru is the ideal paradise for adveture lovers, specially for people who likes to trek. This is a guide about the best hiking routes in Peru.
Hiking –also called trekking– is an activity that, in addition to ensuring an experience full of adrenaline and adventure, favors the health of those who practice it. These are some of its benefits: it increases bone density, stimulates cardiovascular health and lowers bad cholesterol.
The Inca Trail to Machu Picchu
Located in Cusco, capital of the Inca empire, it is one of the most respected and acclaimed tours by national and international tourists. The trekking, which aims to reach the Inca citadel, is comprised of 39 km of travel and reaches a maximum height of 4,200 meters above sea level. n. m.
Along the way, it is possible to enjoy buildings built during the Tahuantinsuyo era, including the Wiñaywayna ruins and the Patallacta archaeological complex. Hikers also enjoy amazing scenery created by nature, such as the Vilcabamba mountain range.
Laguna 69
Located at 4600 m a.s.l. n. m. Under the imposing Chacraraju mountain, in Áncash, this natural wonder distills an impressive palette of colors that are propitiated by the minerals found in the depths of its waters.
It receives this name because it is lagoon number 69 of a total of 800 bodies of water that rest on the Cordillera Blanca.
The walk is hard, but it is worth it. For the experience to be totally pleasant, you must have a waterproof jacket and special trekking shoes. Also, you should not miss pills for soroche, water, lemon candies and a light snacks.
The Cotahuasi Canyon
It is located at 200 km northeast of the city of Arequipa and is considered one of the deepest canyons in the world.
During the tour, travelers can come across awesome landscapes, one of them is the Sipia waterfall. It is also possible to interact and learn a little more about the culture and traditions of the Chapo and Velinga peoples, among others.
The Salkantay Trek
It is also one of the most intrepid routes to reach Machu Picchu (considered one of the wonders of the modern world).
It is one of the most important Apus of the imperial capital and, in addition, one of the highest peaks in the entire country. It is located at 6271 m a.s.l. n. m.
In the 70 km of walking, it is possible to appreciate the Salkantay mountain range, the Huamantay geothermal lagoon and the Colcamayo hot springs.
This route is considered by the prestigious National Geographic Adventure magazine as one of the 25 best trekking routes in the world.
Rupac
If you don’t want to stray too far away from the city, this destination –considered by some as the ‘Machu Picchu of Lima’– is perfect for you.
It is located in the district of Altivillos (Huaral) and to access the site it is necessary to enter through the village of Pampas and then hike of almost four hours.
Upon arrival, you come across some imposing stone buildings that exceed ten meters in height. Once there, it is recommended to camp and enjoy the magical views that it offers at sunset and dusk.
During the mornings, if you are lucky, you will be surprised by an incredible view made up of cushions of clouds that will make you believe that you are on the same sky.