Peru's Best Trekking Companies
If Machu Picchu is one of your dream destinations, then you're in luck! Believe it or not, many of the top trails to the iconic citadel require little to no experience. Learn more about the famous Inca Trail, and other trekking adventures in this majestic region of the world. On this page, you'll find some of the best trekking companies in the country.
Top hiking and trekking companies in Peru
With more than 25 tour operators and trekking agencies, you can find your next adventure easily!
Unu Raymi Expeditions
46 reviews
Bamba Travel
1,287 reviews
TreXperience
434 reviews
Crossover Peru
10 reviews
CondeTravel
63 reviews
Inkayni Peru Tours
606 reviews
G Adventures
13,672 reviews
Peru Trek 4 Good
17 reviews
Alpaca Expeditions
278 reviews
Action Peru Treks
26 reviews
Intrepid Travel
8,850 reviews
World Expeditions
260 reviews
How to climb Machu Picchu and trek the Sacred Valley
How do I prepare for Machu Picchu?
The best way to prepare for a trek to Machu Picchu is to participate in plenty of cardiovascular activity. Activities such as swimming, cycling, or long-distance running will put you in a strong position to complete the trek with ease. Remember; a happy heart makes for a happy hiker. Learn more.
When should I climb Machu Picchu?
Machu Picchu can be climbed year-round, but travellers should be aware that the Inca Trail is closed in February every year for necessary maintenance. The most popular time to hike the Inca Trail is from June to August, which is known to be quite crowded. Learn more.
What permits do I need?
Only 500 permits are allocated per day for the Inca Trail due to the overwhelming popularity of the route and must be booked in advance. Other trails and routes in the area do not need a permit. Learn more.
Do I need a guide to climb?
From 2001, it became a compulsory requirement that travellers on the Inca Trail, in particular, must travel with a registered guide. Many of the alternative trails, however, do not require a guide, and you can hike as you wish unassisted. Learn more.
How do I get to Machu Picchu?
The best way for travellers to reach Machu Picchu is to fly into Cusco, Peru. Spending a few days in Cusco before embarking on a trek to Machu Picchu will help travellers to acclimatise, and reduce the impacts of altitude sickness. Learn more.
What should I pack and what equipment do I need?
Walking poles, hiking boots, waterproof clothing and plenty of layers are just a few of the essentials that you will need for your hiking adventure. As for tents and cooking equipment, be sure to check with your tour operator as this may be provided for you. Learn more.
Inca Trail
One of the most popular (and famous) treks in Peru, the Inca Trail is the only route that will take you directly to Machu Picchu. The journey may feel like a rollercoaster, filled with steep ascents and descents (including the infamous Dead Woman’s Pass), but it is most certainly a rewarding journey.
Distance: 45 kilometres
Average duration: 4-5 days
Average difficulty: Moderate difficulty. There is no experience required for this type of journey, but you should be in relatively good shape, able to comfortably walk for 5-7 hours at a time, and prepared to sweat. The success rate of completing this trek is high, however, travellers should take time to acclimate before hiking, to reduce the chance of altitude sickness while on the trail.The Lares Trek
For hikers looking to avoid the crowds, the Lares Trek is an equally-impressive route with substantially fewer visitors. Enjoy the peace and quiet on this trail, which allows for sightings of llamas and alpacas, local villages, agricultural terraces, and striking scenery.
Distance: 33-45 kilometres, depending on what route you choose
Average duration: 4 days
Average difficulty: Moderate difficulty. There is no experience required for this type of journey however you should be in relatively good shape and able to comfortably walk for 5-7 hours at a time, and prepared to sweat. The success rate of completing this trek is high, but travellers should take time to acclimate before hiking to reduce the chance of altitude sickness while on the trail.The Salkantay Trek
One of the most popular alternatives to the classic pilgrimage route of the Inca Trail, the Salkantay Trek will take you on a journey alongside the glacial lake of Humantay and past the Salkantay Mountain, all while showcasing the natural beauty of the Andean Jungle.
Distance: 55 kilometres
Average duration: 5 days
Average Difficulty: Challenging. Previous trekking experience is highly recommended, as the days will feature 6-8 hours of hiking and you may be trekking at an altitude of over 3,500m. You need complete confidence in your ability to trek for many days over difficult terrain. The success rate of completing this trek is high, but travellers should take time to acclimate before hiking to reduce the chance of altitude sickness while on the trail.The Choquequirao Trek
Set your sights on the ruins of Choquequirao, vast forests, and empty trails on this unique journey. If you’re dreaming of a trek that is both challenging and rewarding, the Choquequirao Trek is a step in the right direction.
Distance: 65 kilometres
Average duration: 8-10 days
Average Difficulty: Challenging. Previous trekking experience is highly recommended, as the days will feature 6-8 hours of hiking and you may be trekking at an altitude of over 3,500m. You need complete confidence in your ability to trek for many days over difficult terrain. The success rate of completing this trek is high, but travellers should take time to acclimate before hiking to reduce the chance of altitude sickness while on the trail.The Vilcabamba Trek
One of the best-kept secrets of the Sacred Valley, the Vilcabamba Trek is reserved mostly for experienced trekkers. If you’re ready to tackle the three consecutive high mountain passes before descending onwards into the jungle, then this could be the perfect route for you.
Distance: 62 kilometres
Average duration: 5 days
Average Difficulty: Challenging. Previous trekking experience is highly recommended, as the days will feature 6-8 hours of hiking, and you may be trekking at an altitude of over 3,500m. You need complete confidence in your ability to trek for many days over difficult terrain. The success rate of completing this trek is high, but travellers should take time to acclimate before hiking to reduce the chance of altitude sickness while on the trail.The Huchuy Qosqo Trek
A short but sweet journey, the Huchuy Qosqo Trek is ideal for travellers who are short on time. Aside from the major draw of the Huchuy Qosqo ruins, hikers can enjoy low foot traffic and marvellous scenery during the journey to reach Machu Picchu.
Distance: 20 kilometres
Average duration: 3 days
Average difficulty: Moderate difficulty. There is no experience required for this type of journey, but you should be in relatively good shape, able to comfortably walk for 5-7 hours at a time, and prepared to sweat. The success rate of completing this trek is high, but travellers should take time to acclimate before hiking to reduce the chance of altitude sickness while on the trail.The Quarry Trail
You might not have heard about the Quarry Trail before, but it should definitely be top of mind when considering an alternative to the Inca Trail. Travellers can expect to see impressive Andean scenery, local villages for unique cultural encounters, and much more.
Distance: 26 kilometres
Average duration: 4 days
Average difficulty: The Quarry Trail is challenging, but definitely manageable. Like many treks in the Sacred Valley, you don't need any experience but should feel comfortable walking 5-7 hours at a time. The success rate of completing this trek is high, but travellers should take time to acclimate before hiking to reduce the chance of altitude sickness while on the trail.
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