5 hiking trails to best experience Peru
When it comes to the best-hiking destinations, there's no chance one could ever miss out on Peru. Featuring three topographies - jungles, mountains, and arid coasts, this country is a hiker's paradise. To discover the thrilling side of Peru, these five stunning hiking trails are worth bookmarking for some much-needed adventure. Strap on your boots and let's begin!
Lomas de Lúcumo
If you're looking for a short hike, Lomas de Lúcumo is just the one. It is a four-kilometer-long trail that may only take you about 2.5 hours for a round trip. On the way, you will spot some caves, a rock climbing area, and some wildlife too. It is best to plan a hike on a weekday as it is usually packed during weekends.
Full Circuit to Gocta Waterfall
Gocta is one of the tallest waterfalls in the world. To see this 771-meter-tall waterfall, one must begin the trek from San Pablo. The trail is well-marked and you cross a host of small villages, coffee plantations, deep valleys, and canyons. The 15-kilometer long route is moderate, on the difficulty level, and may take you about six-eight hours to complete it.
Laguna 69 trek
Laguna 69 trek is a moderate trek. It is 13 kilometers long and can easily take you five-six hours to reach and come back. It is among the most picturesque hiking trails in Peru, with snow-capped mountains and turquoise water dominating the scenery. The trail eases into an ascent for most of the route, however, the last 30-40 minutes is quite a climb.
Inca Trail to Machu Pichu
This is among the most popular and difficult hiking routes in Peru. Starting off with relatively flat terrain, this trail cuts through valleys, mountains, rivers, and small Inca ruins. The final climb is a set of stairs to the Sun Gate from where you can see Machu Pichu. The trail, which is 42 kilometers one way, may take you about three-five days to conquer.
Cordillera Huayhuash
Cordillera Huayhuash is the ultimate mountain trekking experience in Peru. It is a strenuous hike with a whopping 120-kilometer-long trail that can take you about 12 days to cover it. It is one of the world's highest trekking circuits with an elevation of 3963 to 5020 meters above sea level. On the way, you will see glacial lakes, Andean peaks, and more.
