Peru Mountains
Peru's mountains offer you an incredible getaway, and some outdoor bragging rights. Next to the Himalayas, the Andes are the highest mountain chain on Earth. They run down the center of Peru and form four separate mountain ranges, or 'cordilleras,' which are known as the Blanca, Negra, Oriental, and Central. If you're looking to hit the trail and explore the outdoors, then you couldn't ask for a better destination.
In addition to scenic hiking, you'll see amazing sights during your treks. Where does salt come from? Discover the answer at the Inca salt mines outside of Urubamba. Enjoy the lively markets of Huaraz, where people can still be heard speaking Quechua. When you're ready, you can take a multi-day hike in the exquisite surrounding mountains.You might think you've walked into a postcard setting, but really, you've entered the picturesque town of Chivay — a lovely hub for exploring the Colca Valley and Colca Canyon.
Peru's mountains dominate the skyline, and these towns place you steps from birdwatching, wildlife observation, rafting, and of course, hiking. On your next getaway, take the scenic route and experience the majesty of Peru's mountains one step at a time.
The best places to visit in Peru Mountains
Cusco
Nestling in the dip of the Watanay River Valley, from above the city of Cusco takes the shape of a puma, which some historians theorize was a purposeful design. As the city expands, its borders creep up the sides of the surrounding mountains, but puma statues, fountains, and signs keep the big cat’s status of unofficial city mascot.
Puno
Puno is Lake Titicaca’s only major city, and most travelers will pass through here while heading towards other destinations around the lake. The city is only mildly attractive, but is surrounded by seriously spectacular scenery.
Aguas Calientes
Aguas Calientes is the closest town to Machu Picchu. Staying here for a night or two will give you intimate access to this incredible Inca site.
Arequipa
The name Arequipa comes from "Ari, Quepay," which means "Yes, you may stay" in the local Quechua language. Not surprisingly, Arequipa is very welcoming and well worth the visit with its amazing architecture, bustling city center, and friendly atmosphere.
Urubamba
The town of Urubamba is located in the middle of the Sacred Valley. Despite its central location, the town is mellow and relaxed. It makes for a good home base while exploring Peru’s most beautiful valley.
The Sacred Valley
The first inhabitants of the Sacred Valley treasured this land not only for its dramatic landscapes and sweeping vistas—the Sacred Valley also offered ample opportunities for agriculture, and had plentiful water just beyond the reaches of the parched desert. Its fertility was the result of a sunny climate and the Río Urubamba coursing through the valley.
Chivay
Chivay, a traditional market town set in a picturesque patchwork of agricultural farmlands, constitutes the main hub of the Colca Valley. Chivay acts as a gateway for exploring the beautiful Colca Canyon.
Huaraz
Huaraz offers travelers a true Andean experience in the heart of the Cordillera Blanca. It has a vibrant city center, traditional culture, and an absolutely gorgeous setting.
Chachapoyas
The indigenous population of the city of Chachapoyas has a reputation for being some of the most friendly and hospitable people in Peru. While in Chachapoyas, which is famous for its cloud forests, visitors can delve into the rich history of the “cloud people,” including visits to an immense stone ruin known as the “Machu Picchu of the North,” and also see some of the most impressive mummies in Peru.
Ollantaytambo
Ollantaytambo is a busy little Andean village situated at the northeastern end of the Sacred Valley. It’s famous for its Perurail train station (delivering visitors to Machu Picchu), traditional market and impressive Incan ruins.
Peru Mountains itineraries from local insiders
Explore hand-picked Peru Mountains itineraries designed by local insiders who know every hidden corner. Each trip is completely flexible, customized to your pace, travel style, and budget.
Family Expedition Across Peru
Elisa and her Greek family explored Peru’s diverse landscapes on a memorable 20 day adventure. They journeyed from the Paracas desert and Huacachina dunes to the high Andes of Arequipa, Colca Canyon, Lake Titicaca, and Machu Picchu. Friendly local guides shared traditions and stories, letting the family feel Peru’s warm hospitality and leaving them with a deeper appreciation for its vibrant heritage.
Peru
Andean Peaks to Lake Titicaca
The Anywhere team was planning and helping us thru out the process. Right from picking us up from the airport to dropping us back to the hotel. They created a WhatsApp group to communicate with us every day and answered our questions within a few minutes. Thanks to Lisbeth and Jose in Cusco. Eduardo in Machu Pichu, Anna Maria in Puno and Sara and Samuel in Lima. They are worked like a team to ensure our trip was well planned and executed. Big thanks to Cesar for the great planning and suggestions along the way.
Peru
Excursion Together
Laura explored Peru’s diverse landscapes on a curated 10‑day adventure that blended culture, history, and nature. She began in Lima’s coastal desert, visited the Palomino Islands for sea‑lion spotting, then trekked the high‑altitude ruins of Cusco and the Sacred Valley before sailing on Lake Titicaca’s shimmering plateau. Guides shared local customs and stories, letting her taste dishes and feel the timeless rhythm of Peruvian life, leaving her with an appreciation for the country’s vibrant heritage.
Peru
Peru for Two on a Budget
Embark on a vibrant Peruvian adventure where bustling city life meets ancient Andean wonders, contrasting modern Lima’s coastal energy with the mystique of the Sacred Valley. You'll wander Lima’s historic streets, then soar to Cusco’s high-altitude charm before trekking to the misty ruins of Machu Picchu and the colorful heights of Vinicunca Rainbow Mountain. Guided by knowledgeable locals, you'll taste traditional cuisine, hear Andean legends, and leave with a deeper connection to Peru’s rich heritage and breathtaking landscapes.
Peru
Our Multigenerational Journey
My sister and her family want to come next year, and possible another friend's family as well, so will definitely tell them to use Anywhere!!!
Peru
We Conquered Huayna Picchu
This was a very personal experience and Anywhere.com does an amazing job of having agents who are cultured and/or very familiar with the country to which you wish to visit. This allows the agent to listen to what you want to experience and then match you up with the right outfitter, vendor, excursion group, etc...I felt like Sara Nizama truly listened to my wants/needs and made them a reality. I am so happy with my Peru experience, thanks to Sara and her team. I want to go back soon and explore more of Peru with the help of Sara and her team. Thank you!
Peru
Wow, We Did it!
Excellent coordination and very helpful staff throughout the trip. Sara is the boss...she has good command of all aspects of our trip and provided the necessary help & support ...right from planning stage to boarding our flight back to US.
Peru
Experience The Heart of Peru
Very professional service, very good organization overall. Everything went smoothly. We ABSOLUTELY will recommend Anywhere.com to our friends. And for our future trips, we will first look at what anywhere.com is offering before looking elsewhere.
Peru
Romance in The Andes
After debating on which country to visit for our special trip, we finally decided on Peru. It was the best decision ever. Anywhere.com helped us arrange and make the most of our dream vacation!
Peru
More Peru Mountains
There's always more to discover in Peru. From off-the-beaten-path gems to well-loved classics, these peru mountains are worth adding to your itinerary.
Cajamarca
Cajamarca is a charming city in northern Peru. Set within the Andes at an elevation of about 9,000 feet (2,750 m), Cajamarca is one of the best destinations in the Northern Highlands. Despite rapid growth due to the gold mining industry, Cajamarca still retains a historic feel. Villagers stroll down cobblestone streets in traditional attire, passing by old churches and colonial houses as they make their way towards the Plaza de Armas.
Destination
Pisac
Pisac is a charming mountain town set near the top of the Sacred Valley. The town is well known for its daily artisan market and Inca ruins.
Destination
Chinchero
Chinchero is a peaceful little Andean village situated 18 miles (30 km) from Cusco. It enjoys views of the Sacred Valley and the snow-capped peaks of the Cordillera Vilcabamba. The village itself consists of a cluster of adobe house-lined streets where locals maintain their traditional weaving and dress.
Destination
Huancayo
Huancayo is a midsize town situated in Peru’s Mantaro Valley. The town itself is fairly nondescript, but it provides travelers with wonderful access to the cultural and naturally impressive Mantaro Valley.
Destination
Calca
Located on the northern tip of the Sacred Valley of the Incas, Calca offers pristine hikes and opportunities for mountain biking through an ancient valley. Calca is a great place to get an idea of what indigenous Andean cities would have looked like before the Spanish arrived. There are two main plazas in the center of town, a traditional feature of Inca city planning – cities planned by the Spanish typically have only one plaza.
Destination
