Plan exploreInca Trail to Machu Picchu
El morro solar: a "peak" into lima's culture and history
el morro solar: a "peak" into lima's culture and historyMention “El Morro Solar” in Lima and locals will have more than a few things to say about the city’s iconic peak. The politically-minded will comment on the Christ of the Pacific statue gifted by ex-President Alan Garcia or mention the historic Battle of the Pacific that unfolded there, while the socially conscious will spout statistics about one of Peru’s poorest barrios that calls the mountain slope home. If you’re not already catching on, El Morro Solar is much more than a pretty Pacific view or a day hike to pack in while you tour Peru. It’s full of enlightening culture, monumental Peruvian history, and heart-pumping adventure.
The Enlightening Culture
Hugging the hillside of El Morro Solar is the community of Alto Peru, a place once synonymous with poverty, delinquency, crime, and drugs. Since 2008, the NGO Alto Peru has been using sport, mainly surfing and muay thai, to help inspire and ignite change in the youth of the Alto Peru community. And it’s working. Today (with a proper guide we should note), it’s possible to tour the community, meet some of the locals, and witness the ongoing transformation firsthand, all while en route to El Morro Solar’s tempting peak.
The Monumental Peruvian History
During the War of the Pacific, El Morro Solar was the scene of one of the war’s bloodiest battles, the Battle of San Juan and Chorrillos. War monuments bedeck the hillsides, including the 22-meter-tall (72 ft.) stone obelisk dedicated to the unknown soldiers who lost their lives in the battle. The other major monument is that of Miguel Iglesias who became a national hero after he steadfastly defended the hill during the war.
The Heart-Pumping Adventure
At 251 meters tall (823 feet), El Morro Solar is more than just a hill. The zig-zagging trails to its summit will get the heart racing a bit, whether or not the rest of your Peru adventure took you to heights far, far higher. The views of the Lima coastline from the top are truly picturesque and the list of historic and religious monuments to check out once there is a long one.
Join Explorandes for a Half-Day Adventure to El Morro Solar
Explorandes offers a well-rounded half-day activity to El Morro Solar. The itinerary starts with a locally-guided tour of Alto Peru, continues with an ascent of El Morro Solar to the Christ of the Pacific statue, and finishes on the sandy shores at the hill’s base where fishermen and seabirds alike are busy catching fish. For information about this and the other Peru tours we offer, get in touch with us today.
Plan exploreDestino Cusco
this season featured experiences
HIKING&TREKKING
huayhuash trekThe Huayhuash Trek is an amazing journey to the very heart of the Cordillera Huayhuash, the second highest tropical mountain range in the world. A trekker's paradise, this terrain is remote, wild, and stunningly beautiful. The film Touching the Void, the tale of climbers Joe Simpson and Simon Yates, was made about their harrowing experience as the first mountaineers to scale Siula Grande, which is part of this mountain range. This version of the Huayhuash trek crosses six high passes over 4500 m (14,763 ft) and two that are higher than 5000 m (16,404 ft)! Throughout the 12 days of the trek, we camp next to stunningly beautiful alpine lakes and in broad, grassy valleys replete with wildflowers and rushing alpine creeks, while basking in the imposing presence of the White Mountains looming over us, with peaks at elevations above 5000 m (16,404 ft) and 6000 m (19,685 ft). At least three days of acclimatization hikes in the area are strongly recommended to be able to enjoy the trek.
April - October
12 days / 11 nights
From
$ 1750
/ Per PersonHIKING&TREKKING
ancascocha trek & the short inca trailNational Geographic Magazine has rated this Inca Trail alternative trek as one of the top hikes in the world! This Ancascocha Trek & the Short Inca Trail is truly the road less traveled by, for those who crave time away from crowds, amidst the beauty of nature. The journey begins at the Parpishu Footbridge and ascends amidst the dramatic backdrop of Mts. Salkantay and Verónica. Crossing through rugged terrain, remote mountain communities, ancient ruins, and diverse ecosystems for around 37 km (23 mi), the trek culminates at the village of Camicancha, near Km 77 on the railroad tracks to Machu Picchu. On day 4, we will board the train to Km 104 to walk along the pathway that covers the final stretch of the Inca Trail, where you will have a taste of the famous longer Inca Trail hike, and the thrill of entering Machu Picchu through Inti Punku, the Gate of the Sun. On our last day of the Ancascocha Trek & the Short Inca Trail, we will spend time exploring Machu Picchu, one of the ancient wonders of the world.
March - December
5 days / 4 nights
From
$ 1290
/ Per PersonHIKING&TREKKING
running the inca trails - choquequirao to machu picchuOn this run, we will traverse an incredible Inca highway consisting of over 125 km (77.7 mi) of ancient roads. The activities include trail running, enjoying the tranquility of nature, and exploring two amazing and enigmatic archaeological sites. We will cross through highly varied terrain of diverse ecosystems: from majestic rivers at 1500 masl (4921 fasl) to high mountain passes at 4650 masl (15,256 fasl); from tropical rainforests to imposing glaciers; from the territory of the endangered spectacled bear to the skyways of majestic condors in flight; all combining to make this a unique and memorable experience. The route begins in the town of Capuliyoc and passes through the famous archaeological complex of Choquequirao. We’ll visit small villages along the route, running lightly over intact Inca paths winding through the mountains, and ending at the mystical ancient citadel of Machu Picchu.
April - November
8 days / 7 nights
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$ 2310
/ Per PersonCULTURALCLASSICS
journey to the heart of titicacaEmbark on a unique journey through one of the most mystical and culturally rich regions of the Andes. Our 4-day/3-night program takes you on a deep dive into the heart of Lake Titicaca, the highest navigable lake in the world, known for its breathtaking landscapes, ancient traditions, and spiritual significance.
This immersive experience blends adventure with cultural exploration, guiding you through the iconic Uros Floating Islands, the historical Isla Taquile, and the serene community of Luquina Chico. Along the way, you’ll engage in traditional activities, connect with local communities, and hike ancient Inca paths that lead you through the stunning altiplano.
Whether you’re hiking the sacred trails of the Inca, meditating on the shores of the lake, or sharing stories by the fireside, this program offers an unparalleled chance to experience the timeless spirit of the Andean world.
April - October
4 days / 3 nights
From
$ 810
/ Per Person