December 3, 2024

Top 3 Tips for Hiking the Peruvian Andes

Latin America Hiking & Trekking Travel Tips & Inspiration

Two people in outdoor clothing stand on a rocky mountain ridge in the Peruvian Andes, with snow-capped peaks and a turquoise lake in the background under a partly cloudy sky, perfect for capturing hiking tips.

I had the amazing opportunity to travel throughout Peru this past summer and explore some of the best trails in the Andes. This was my second trip to Peru (this time I was able to bring my partner!) and I could visit countless more times. Starting in Cusco and finishing in Huaraz, I hiked amid ancient ruins, alongside glacial lakes, and beneath snowcapped 20,000-foot peaks. Here are my top three tips to prepare for life on the trail in the Peruvian Andes.

Two hikers with walking sticks and a dog trek a mountain trail in the breathtaking Peruvian Andes, snow-capped peaks soaring in the background under a clear blue sky. — Typical hiking day attire: cap, sunglasses, buff, t-shirt, sun hoodie, insulated vest, hiking pants, hiking shoes (or boots), adjustable hiking poles, and daypack. Trail dog was an added bonus.

1. Remember to Pack Layers!

Be prepared for daytime temperatures in the 60s/70s and evening temps in the 40s. Include lots of layers in your luggage. I hiked in a merino wool t-shirt and a sun hoodie most days, but always kept a light puffy or vest at the top of my pack. A rain jacket can not only protect in case of inclement weather, but also add a bit of warmth from the wind. Bring a good daypack for extra layers while on the trail and hiking poles to help with steep descents. If you’re trekking up above 10,000 feet, bring some light gloves and even hand warmers in case it’s extra cold in the morning and evening.

Panoramic view of Sacsayhuamán, an ancient stone fortress complex in the Peruvian Andes near Cusco, with large stone walls and people walking on the grassy open area under a blue sky with clouds.

2. Take Your Time—The Altitude in the Andes is no Joke!

I spent a week in and around Cusco (6,000-10,000 feet), and the first couple days were challenging just exploring nearby ruins. I was wiped out after taking a bus to nearby Sacsayhuaman and the short one-mile walk back to my hotel.

Amid the ancient stone ruins under a partly cloudy sky, a lone hiker stands near the structure on the right, offering a glimpse into the mysteries of the Peruvian Andes.

I spent another three days acclimating on day hikes around Huaraz at 10,000-15,000ft. And once I began my trek in the Huayhuash, I spent the majority of a week between 13,000-16,800ft. There are pros and cons to taking Diamox worth chatting about with your physician, but more importantly, take extra time to acclimate slowly—there’s no need to rush it!

Hikers with trekking poles navigate a rocky mountain path under a partly cloudy sky in the breathtaking Peruvian Andes. Jagged peaks and snow-capped mountains rise majestically in the background, offering an unforgettable hiking experience.

3. Wear Proper Footwear—Trails are Rugged

Whether walking along an ancient Inca Trail or up above treeline, you’re in for a treat. Trails themselves can vary drastically. The ancient Inca trails can be reminiscent of Spanish colonial “caminos” with large stones lining, if not comprising, the walking path.

A person is hiking up a steep, stone staircase surrounded by lush, green foliage reminiscent of the Peruvian Andes.

Three people with backpacks ascend a rocky mountain trail in the Peruvian Andes, using ropes amid mossy rocks and sparse vegetation, offering a thrilling hiking experience.

Trails are frequently much steeper than those you might find in the US, like this fun via ferrata section (pictured right) on the hike to Laguna Churup. We recommend hiking boots with ankle support for our hiking and trekking adventures in Peru.

Peruvian topography also means steep sided canyons—don’t look down! And there’s an even better reason to not look down…the views are breathtaking! Here’s just a handful of my favorite photos.

If you’re thinking about hiking in the Andes or have an upcoming trip to Peru, these tips will help ensure that you are best prepared for the amazing experiences this unique region holds.

—Text and photos by WT staff Matt Zelin. Learn more about our hiking/trekking trips in Peru here.