Imagine waking up from the sun slowly warming your tent, the air is crisp and fresh as you take in a deep breath, filling your lungs with mountain air. As you open your tent, you come face-to-face with rugged, snow-capped mountains towering over a valley of turquoise lakes. The wild flora and fauna surrounds you on all sides, as far as the eye can see. You are quietly greeted by your guide who hands you a steaming cup of coca tea and says, “Allin p’unchay” which is good morning in Quechuan, the indigenous language spoken in the mountain communities of the Andes.
Whether you are looking for extreme adventure or cultural immersion, Perú offers a variety of trekking options. But if you’ve never been before, it can be daunting to select the right trek. We think the three treks below are perfect for those looking for a reasonable challenge, awe-inspring scenery and time to bask in the beauty of nature. Don’t hesitate to be in touch if you have other questions, we are always happy to talk about travelling in Peru.
Santa Cruz Trek
National Geographic has rated this one of the best treks in the world, and we have to agree. This is one of the most iconic trails in Peru and traveler Jonas described it best, “Crossing turquoise lagoons, giant white-capped mountains, sweeping valleys and ancient villages, and watching waterfalls cascade down granite walls, as whitewater streams weave through the valley floors, makes this trek an unforgettable experience.” It features a few challenging climbs, with the highest reaching 15,000 ft at Punta Union, but overall is accesible to most. The Santa Cruz trek starts and ends in Huaraz, so be sure to take plenty of time to acclimatize before setting out.
Trips leave: May 19th, June 2nd, June 9th, June 23. With many more in July and August.
Huayhuash Circuit
Truly one of the most incredible circuits in the Cordilleras because of its access to glaciers, stunning peaks over 6000 meters high and sparkling mountain lakes. While it’s definitely more challenging, the resulting pictures alone will be worth it. Also, an added benefit is the ability to enter and exit the circuit at many points, so the Huayhuash circuit can be completed in 8 – 13 days or shortened to as few as 5 days for those with less time. Whichever way it’s undertaken, this is a truly mesmerizing high-altitude, multi-day trek.
Trips leave: June 12th, June 17th, June 21st with different variations, so get in touch with us today to learn more.
Salkantay Trek & Machu Picchu
Salkantay isn’t just an alternative to the Inca trail, it’s a beautiful and challenging trek in its own right. The peaks are higher, the trail longer, and the scenery that much more rewarding on this 5 day trek to Machu Picchu. You will camp next to glaciers, and stroll past coffee and fruit plantations on your way to Machu Picchu. While this trek isn’t for the faint of heart or those lacking in physical fitness, it is less crowded than the Inca trail and offers just enough of a challenge without being too intense. As with any trek in Perú, be sure to acclimatize sufficiently. Note, this expedition starts and ends outside of Cusco.
Trips leave: May 19th, May 21st, May 28th and frequently throughout June, July and August.
Don’t hesitate to be in touch with questions! Contact us at info@projectcordillera.org or email Natalia, natalia@projectcordillera.org, to book a specific trip.
