Plan exploreInca Trail to Machu Picchu
Mountains in Peru
a journey through peru’s most famous mountainsPeru, a country of diverse landscapes, is a paradise for mountain enthusiasts. The mountains in Peru are a testament to the country's majestic and varied geography. Home to the Andes, the longest and second-highest mountain range in the world, Peru boasts a dazzling array of peaks, many of which top out above 20,000 feet, attracting climbers, trekkers, and adventurers from across the globe.
From its highest mountain to its famous colorful ranges, the mountains in Peru are rich in history, culture, and natural beauty. Let’s explore some of the country’s most infamous mountains and what makes them so special.
Highest Mountain in Peru
Huascarán
Height: 6,768 meters (22,205 feet)
Location: Cordillera Blanca, Peru
A pinnacle of pride among the mountains in Peru, Huascarán is the tallest peak in the country and one of the tallest points in the Western Hemisphere. Standing at an impressive 6,768 meters (22,205 feet), it is the crown jewel of the Cordillera Blanca mountain range and a must-visit for those seeking adventure at high altitudes.
Located in Huascarán National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this iconic peak is surrounded by one of the most biologically diverse areas in the Andes.
Climbers begin their expedition in the picturesque town of Huaraz, often referred to as the gateway to the Cordillera Blanca. The ascent is technical and demands proficiency in glacier travel, ice climbing, and high-altitude mountaineering. Avalanches and crevasses add to the difficulty, requiring climbers to be highly experienced or accompanied by seasoned guides familiar with the terrain.
On clear days, you can see far into the Amazon Basin to the east and the Pacific coastline to the west, making the climb worth every effort.
Salkantay
Height: 6,271 meters (20,574 feet)
Location: Vilcabamba Mountain Range, Peru
Salkantay, rising to 6,271 meters (20,574 feet), is a favorite for trekkers. Its rugged terrain and status as a sacred apu make it one of the most revered mountains in Peru. The peak is known locally as a protector and provider of life-giving water to the surrounding valleys. The name "Salkantay" comes from the Quechua word meaning "Savage Mountain," reflecting its untamed presence in the Andes.
One of the most compelling aspects of Salkantay mountain is that it is home to the Salkantay Trek. This 45-mile (72 kilometers) route serves as a "backdoor" to Machu Picchu, Peru's most famous archaeological site. The trek takes adventurers through 5 distinct biozones—from high alpine to cloud forest and subtropical—that vary dramatically in altitude, climate, and vegetation. The Salkantay Trek showcases the incredible diversity of the mountains in Peru. Unlike the traditional Inca Trail, the Salkantay Trek avoids the need for a permit, making it an accessible alternative for trekkers.
While Salkantay is primarily known for trekking, it has also attracted the attention of mountaineers. The first recorded ascent of Salkantay was completed in 1952 by a French expedition team. Today, Salkantay is less frequently climbed than peaks like Huascarán, but its imposing stature continues to draw experienced climbers seeking to challenge themselves on one of the most formidable mountains in Peru.
Ausangate
Height: 6,384 meters (20,945 feet)
Location: Vilcanota Mountain Range, Peru
Ausangate highlights the cultural and spiritual importance of the mountains in Peru to Andean communities. Recognized as the twin peak to Salkantay, with both mountains equidistant from Cusco city, Ausangate is also considered an apu, or sacred mountain, in Andean mythology. It is revered for its spiritual significance and serves as a guardian and provider for the surrounding communities. At 6,384 meters (20,945 feet), it is the fifth-highest mountain in Peru.
The Ausangate Circuit offers a challenging trek through remote highland terrain, passing glacial lagoons and herds of alpacas. This peak is particularly famous for its connection to the Qoyllur Rit’i Festival, a spiritual pilgrimage that draws thousands each year. In addition, the Vilcanota Mountain Range, where Ausangate is located, is famous for its colorful geological formations like those found near Rainbow Mountain.
Siula Grande
Height: 6,344 meters (20,814 feet)
Location: Cordillera Huayhuash, Peru
Siula Grande, standing at 6,344 meters (20,814 feet), is one of Peru’s most iconic peaks, known not only for its sheer beauty but also for the gripping tale of survival that unfolded on its slopes. The mountain gained international fame through Joe Simpson’s book Touching the Void, which recounts his and his climbing partner’s harrowing survival story.
The Cordillera Huayhuash, where Siula Grande is located, is often overshadowed by its northern counterpart, the Cordillera Blanca, but it is no less spectacular. This remote mountain is a magnet for climbers seeking to tackle its technical climbs as well as trekkers attracted to its stunning scenery, including the emerald waters of Laguna Siula, which reflect the mountain’s imposing silhouette. Siula Grande is untouched wilderness at its finest and its survival stories make it one of the most unforgettable mountains in Peru.
Ampato
Height: 6,288-meter (20,630-foot)
Location: Arequipa Region, Peru
Ampato is a prime example of how the mountains in Peru blend cultural significance with natural grandeur. In 1995, the frozen mummy of Juanita, the Ice Maiden, was discovered near its summit by a team of archaeologists led by Dr. Johan Reinhard. The mummy, which had been preserved in the ice for over 500 years, helped to shed light on Incan sacrificial practices.
Ampato is part of the Andes Volcanic Belt in southern Peru, which is known for its active geological activity. Although the mountain is considered dormant today, its volcanic origins are evident in the rocky slopes and the geothermal features found in the region. The surrounding areas, including the Colca Canyon—one of the deepest canyons in the world—offer breathtaking views of Ampato's summit, standing in stark contrast to the dry, arid landscape below.
Yerupajá
Height: 6,617 meters (21,709 feet)
Location: Cordillera Huayhuash, Peru
Yerupajá, the second-highest mountain in Peru at 6,617 meters (21,709 feet), is one of the most technically challenging climbs among the mountains in Peru. Located in the Cordillera Huayhuash, this peak is known as "El Carnicero" (The Butcher) due to its sheer, jagged edges which has claimed the lives of several climbers over the years.
Climbing Yerupajá is no small feat. The mountain has earned a reputation for being one of the most technically difficult climbs in the world. The northern ridge is one of the most popular routes, though it requires advanced skills in both rock climbing and glacier navigation. In addition to mountaineers, Yerupajá also draws trekkers, photographers, and adventure seekers who may not be scaling its famous peak but still wish to explore its surroundings.
Chopicalqui
Height: 6,354 meters (20,846 feet)
Location: Cordillera Blanca, Peru
Chopicalqui, with an elevation of 6,354 meters (20,846 feet), is another gem of the Cordillera Blanca and one of the stunning mountains in Peru. It offers a less technical but equally rewarding climb, making it a popular choice for mountaineers aiming to summit a 6,000-meter peak. The views from the top include panoramic vistas of neighboring giants like Huascarán and Huandoy.
Coropuna
Height: 6,425 meters (21,079 feet)
Location: Arequipa Region, Peru
Coropuna, the largest volcano of the mountains in Peru,, stands at 6,425 meters (21,079 feet). The volcano’s last significant eruption occurred thousands of years ago, but its sheer size and massive lava flows are evidence of its once violent activity. The Coropuna Caldera, the crater formed by ancient eruptions, provides a glimpse into the immense power the volcano once had.
Located in the Arequipa region, this now dormant volcano is famous for its sprawling glaciers. The ice and snow that cover Coropuna’s summit are essential for the region’s ecosystem, feeding several rivers that provide water for agriculture for local communities.
Many mountaineers choose Coropuna as a training ground before attempting more technical climbs in the mountains in Peru, as it offers an opportunity to experience climbing on a massive mountain without the extreme difficulty of other peaks.
Huandoy
Height: 6,395 meters (20,981 feet)
Location: Cordillera Blanca, Peru
Huandoy is a stunning four-summit mountain in the Cordillera Blanca, with its highest peak reaching 6,395 meters (20,981 feet). Known for its glacial beauty, Huandoy is a popular destination for climbers and photographers. Its proximity to Huascarán National Park makes it accessible for those exploring the region.
Chinchey and Palcaraju
Height: 6,309 meters (20,699 feet)
Location: Cordillera Blanca, Peru
The twin peaks of Chinchey and Palcaraju in the Cordillera Blanca offer awe-inspiring challenges for experienced climbers. Chinchey stands at 6,309 meters (20,699 feet), while Palcaraju is slightly shorter. Both peaks are surrounded by glacial lakes and rugged terrain, embodying the wild beauty of the mountains in Peru and its highlands.
Huantsán
Height: 6,395 meters (20,981 feet)
Location: Cordillera Blanca, Peru
Often overshadowed by Huascarán, Huantsán is a hidden gem in the Cordillera Blanca. Rising to 6,395 meters (20,981 feet), this peak is the 10th-highest peak in Peru and offers climbers a challenging ascent. One of the most striking features of Huantsán is its sheer isolation.
The mountain is located in a remote area of the Cordillera Blanca, and its access is more difficult than that of many of its neighboring peaks, which contributes to its quiet beauty. For those seeking solitude and adventure, Huantsán offers a truly unique experience among the mountains in Peru.
Colorful Mountains in Peru
Peru is not only home to towering peaks but also some of the most colorful mountains in the world. The famous Rainbow Mountain, or Vinicunca, is a vibrant display of red, yellow, and green mineral layers. Located near Cusco, it has become one of the country’s most popular tourist destinations and a striking example of the diverse geological wonders found in the mountains in Peru.
However, Rainbow Mountain is just the beginning. The Palccoyo Rainbow Mountains offer a less crowded alternative, with equally stunning views and vibrant hues. These colorful mountains in Peru are natural wonders, shaped over millennia by geological activity and weathering.
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Plan exploreDestino Cusco
this season featured experiences
HIKING & TREKKING
inca trail to machu picchuThis 5-day journey begins at Km 82, the marker that signifies the start of the famous Inca Trail to Machu Picchu. Our highly trained guides, who are deeply familiar with these ancient Inca footpaths, will expertly lead us through the magnificent Andean terrain. Along the way, we’ll traverse breathtaking high alpine passes, lush valleys, dense cloud forests, and rushing rivers. We’ll pass through ancient Inca remains of Andean settlements, ultimately arriving at Machu Picchu via Inti Punku (the Sun Gate). Each night, our team of porters and skilled cooks will have a delicious hot meal and a comfortable camp already set up for your convenience. Since we highly value sustainable tourism, we’ll have very little impact on the land, communities, and environment we encounter along the trail, and we will also take steps to enjoy a tranquil hike, avoiding crowds of fellow trekkers. On the final day, a guided tour of the citadel will bring Machu Picchu to life, as we explore and immerse ourselves in the magic and beauty of this ancient, mystical site. Our version of the Inca trail to Machu Picchu trek is truly an unforgettable experience you’ll reminisce about for years to come.
March - December
5 days / 4 nights
From
$ 1290
/ Per PersonHIKING & 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
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$ 1750
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the hidden valleys of salkantayStarting from a little-known valley near Limatambo, we ascend gradually over two days past ancient forests and varied Andean landscapes toward the Cruzjasa Pass at 4,550 meters / 14,927 feet above sea level. Here we will experience the best views of the south and east faces Mount Salkantay, away from the crowds. We descend along a gradual decline toward Mirador Pampaccahuana, accompanied by views of Mount Salkantay and its moraine until we reach Cusichaca Valley, which marks the eastern boundary of the Machu Picchu Historical Sanctuary. As we approach the Sacred Valley, we will begin to see trekkers embarking on the first stretch of famous Inca Trail as we continue our hike downhill toward our private campsite at Chamana. Before finally reaching the Valley floor, we will take a detour to explore Wayna Q’ente and Machu Q’ente, two majestic Inca sites recently restored by the Ministry of Culture which showcase some of the finest Inca terracing and landscaping in the region. Our hike ends at the valley floor where we will be picked up and transported to Ollantaytambo in time to catch the afternoon train to Machu Picchu.
April - December
5 days / 4 nights
From
$ 1290
/ Per PersonHIKING & TREKKING
llama trekking on the north great inca trail
Embark on a journey through time as you explore one of the best-preserved portions of the Great Inca trail that connected Cusco, the ancient ceremonial capital of the Inca Empire, with Tomebamba, her northern sister city that is modern-day Cuenca, Ecuador. Explore over 70 km. of the main artery of the greatest road network in Pre-Columbian Latin America, speckled with archaeological sites in the remote landscapes of Northern Peru’s Central Andes. We’ll begin with a visit to Chavín de Huantar, a mysterious temple where ancient religious ceremonies took place over 3,000 years ago. We will immerse in diverse natural landscapes, crossing the Continental Divide and trek across two departments: Ancash and Huánuco, experiencing amazing vistas along the journey. On our last day we’ll arrive at Huánuco Pampa, the largest Inca administrative center outside the department of Cusco where we’ll marvel at feats of engineering achieved by a civilization whose abilities with stonecutting and placement remain unmatched to this day. This amazing trek will challenge, delight, and inspire you.
April - October
6 days / 5 nights
From
$ 1700
/ Per Person