Located deep within the towering Peruvian Andes, Cusco has become a rite of passage for any traveler exploring this diverse South American country.
Whilst well-known for its colorful markets, beautiful baroque architecture and its proximity to Machu Picchu, Cusco is also the perfect basecamp for embarking on some truly unforgettable multi-day hikes. This includes hiking over famous snow-capped mountains, visiting glacial lagoons as well as exploring hidden ancient ruins that are otherwise off-limits to the general public.
In this guide, we’ll explore the very best multi-day experiences in Cusco that you can head on, as well as the different hiking seasons you should consider. We’ll also look at how you can book a tour, as well as some preparation tips before you set off on your hike.
The Different Multi-Day Experiences In Cusco
Below, we’ll now jump into the very best multi-day hikes and treks of the Cusco region and why you should consider each one on your own trip to Peru.
The Classic Inca Trail To Machu Picchu (4 Days)
If you are interested in seeing ancient Incan ruins, breathtaking jungle canopy views and potentially spotting wildlife such as Spectacled Bears and the bright orange Cock-of-the-rock Bird – then the Inca Trail is the right trek for you.
Measuring a total distance of 43km, the Classic Four Day Inca Trail retraces the same steps that the formidable Inca civilization once took to get to Machu Picchu, where we will walk along the same stone steps that they once did. Between conversations with cheerful porters and eating hearty Andean meals, we’ll also explore various archaeological sites such as Wiñay Wayna, Sayacmarca, Intipata and Llactapata.
The altitude of the Inca Trail is much lower than other treks of the region (between 2400-4200m), making it a great first one to embark on as you begin to acclimate. Just remember to bring a few extra layers for the evenings, as well as a power bank, as there is no electricity along the route.
The Lares Trek To Machu Picchu (4-5 Days)
The Lares Trek is a great all-rounder hike that isn’t too difficult to hike – where you’ll still be able to tick off all of the usual perks of a hiking circuit within the Peruvian Andes.
Here, we will hike around waterfalls and colorful lagoons, see Andean Condors soaring above valleys, and even meet local farmers along the route. There’s also an option of hiking the Lares Trek combined with the Short Inca Trail (offered by local operator AB Expeditions), where you will get the best of both worlds before culminating your trek at Machu Picchu.
Overall, the Lares Trek is the most flexible of all routes you can embark on in the Cusco region, which can be hiked with no issue during any month of the year (of course, still bring waterproofs if coming during the wet season). The altitude here varies between 2400-4700m, so you’ll want to walk slowly and also acclimate properly beforehand for a few days in Cusco.
The Ausangate Trek To Rainbow Mountain (3-7 Days)
One of the most up-and-coming treks of the region, the Ausangate Hike is a true authentic hiking experience without the crowds – which combines otherworldly glacial landscapes along with raw Andean culture.
Here we will spend various days hiking around the famous peak, which has important spiritual and cultural significance for both local communities as well as the ancient civilisations that once lived in the surrounding regions. Walking around alpine lagoons of multiple colors, we can see herds of Alpacas and Vicuñas roaming free, and on the first day, we can even bathe in hot springs whilst watching the sun set over the Andean mountains.
Up at a higher altitude than the previous two treks, the Multi-Day Ausangate Trek does require more planning and physical preparation. Altitudes hover around the 5000m mark, so it’s important to have acclimated well in Cusco beforehand, as well as making sure you are in good physical shape.
The Best Season For Hiking Around Cusco
It’s important to know that there is both a dry and a wet season in the Cusco region, and each will offer vastly different hiking experiences.
The dry season begins in May and lasts until October. It’s the overall most popular time to go hiking, given there is virtually no rainfall and almost guaranteed blue skies each day. Temperatures can be slightly cooler during this time of year, so you’ll want to pack several layers. If planning a trip around these months, then you’ll want to book well in advance (at least 6 months for treks like the Inca Trail), given they can sell out fast.
The wet season runs from late October until April, and there is a big change in both the weather and surrounding landscapes. Rainfall and storms are more likely here, where they often peak in February (several treks are closed off during this month). Whilst you’ll need to bring a poncho and waterproofs, the advantages of hiking during this time include minimal crowds on the trails as well as some incredible green scenery from the rains.
How To Book A Multi-Day Hiking Tour In Cusco
Whilst usual day trips can be booked a few days before within Cusco, planning a multi-day trek should be done much further in advance.
This is because permits can be limited for certain routes (such as the Inca Trail, which only allows 500 entries per day), and also so that companies can guarantee you the best camping spots, which can be competitive and sell out quickly.
Your best bet is to book online several months in advance before you arrive in Cusco. There are many different agencies that offer the tours mentioned in this article, and one in particular that stands out is AB Expeditions – which is a reputable agency that offers cultural hiking tours all around the Cusco region.
Preparing For A Cusco Multi-Day Trek
Below, we’ll now take a look at some of the most important tips you should follow before and during your multi-day Cusco hike.
How To Avoid Altitude Sickness
Your biggest foe when hiking around Cusco will be the high altitudes, given the trails here can vary between 2500-5000m and above. The higher up we go, the less readily available oxygen becomes, which can often cause unpleasant side effects such as headaches and nausea.
To avoid altitude sickness you’ll first want to acclimate in Cusco properly, which can be done by simply spending 2-3 days in the city as your body begins to adjust. Drinking Coca Leaves will also make this transition smoother with fewer potential symptoms. When heading on hikes, it’s also a good idea to bring Soroche Pills or Diamox, which prevent illness at higher altitudes. As always, it’s important to first speak to your doctor about these medications and only take them under their guidance.
A Packing List For The Cusco Andes
Generally, temperatures are going to be quite warm during the day, and the sun will be very intense, which can often cause sunburns. At this time of the day, you’ll want to wear thin layers and keep reapplying sunscreen. You’ll also want to pack a jumper or poncho if heading during the wet season (as the rains can make you cold quickly). If heading above 4000m then you’ll often need gloves and a hat during the daytime – and especially so if there’s clouds blocking the sun.
The nights are going to be cold regardless of when you go trekking throughout the year, so you’re going to want to pack several warm layers, such as jumpers and a coat. Often on treks (like those with AB Expeditions), you’ll have a warm tent as well as the option of an insulated sleeping bag too – but it’s always a good idea to have extra layers handy in case you need them.
Thanks for stopping by!
Just before you go, you may want to also check out this guide to hiking in Peru.
Magda
xoxo