YOU CAN STRENGTHEN YOUR BODY AND ENRICH YOUR SOUL WHILE HIKING AND TREKKING IN PERU

As more of us around the world become constantly more surrounded by screens, modern technology, and huge cities, there’s increasing interest in finding physical activities that allow us to connect closely with nature.
Physical activities that were once part of everyday life are surging in popularity, as people long for meaningful breaks to escape the hectic pace of modern urban life. Trekking and hiking have become two preferred outdoor activities for many people worldwide.  And many travelers come to the Cusco region to enjoy the many great hikes and treks that are available, on the ancient network of roads and trails once used by Inca and pre-Inca native people.
Here we’ll attempt to shed some light on the rewards of hiking and trekking in Peru, and on some subtle differences between these activities.

What is hiking about?
Hikers aim to enjoy a natural setting, often along established routes, for a few hours. Shorter hikes are usually along more popular, well-traveled trails, and many excellent short hikes are available for you near Cusco city and in the Sacred Valley.
Hiking can take place in forests, mountains, deserts or even large urban parks, where the walkers can focus on communing with nature, recharging one’s body and spirit for a few hours, and returning home, to a hotel, or to any other comfortable setting.
 
How is trekking different than hiking?
Treks involve multiple-day trips on routes that are more remote and less traveled, but also more natural and wilder. Trekking is for the more adventurous walker. It involves a deeper commitment to planning, more time, carrying more gear with you, overnight stays, and putting up with some physical fatigue and possible discomfort.
Some of the most scenic mountain trekking routes in the world are in the Cusco region, including the Inca Trail, which can often be crowded. We consider the route around Mt. Ausangate to be the very best and most spectacular trek that southern Peru has to offer.
 
Hiking vs Trekking vs Mountaineering
Mountaineeringis for more experienced and physically fit mountain adventurers, at a higher level of challenge.
Mountaineering requires some technical training, skills and equipment to take you to steep slopes, ice fields and rugged peaks, which in Peru often rise over 5,000 meters above sea level, such as Mt. Ausangate.

Trekking equipment
So, maybe you’re pondering and planning your next great outdoors adventure to be in Peru!
Be sure to familiarize yourself with what to take, what clothes to wear and what gear to bring with you at the links we provide here.
 
What we do at Andean Lodges
At Andean Lodges we’re experts in organizing and operating first-rate tours where you can trek, hike and climbing one of the most beautiful and impressive mountain ranges in the world, magnificent Mount Ausangate, for the mountaineering adventure of a lifetime.
Yes, our tours can be challenging, but the immense rewards are most definitely well worth the effort.
We focus on environmentally friendly practices that protect the sacred mountain that welcomes us, and we work closely with local Quechua native communities, whose helpful and hospitable members are involved in every aspect of our operations.
Don’t even hesitate, book a trip with us and start 2019 with the best possible adventure in Peru!