A Hiker's Guide To The Top Mountains To Climb In Peru

Are you seeking the thrill of conquering majestic peaks? Look no further than the enchanting mountains in Peru.

Thus, South American countries are synonymous with ancient civilizations and awe-inspiring landscapes, and it offers a diverse range of mountains that cater to both novice and experienced climbers. 

So, whether you're drawn to the challenge of high-altitude ascents or captivated by the cultural and natural wonders that surround these peaks, Peru has something for every adventurer.

You can even start with one of our Peru tours here at Skyhook and take in all this beautiful country has to offer.

But first, here are the best Peru peaks that made our bucket list of mountains to climb!

As one of the best mountains to climb in South America, Machu Picchu is an iconic and mesmerising ancient Inca city nestled high in the Andes Mountains of Peru.

It offers a unique and captivating opportunity for you, with an altitude of 2,430 metres above sea level.

Machu Picchu Mountain is renowned for its archaeological significance and breathtaking vistas

The climb is a blend of cultural immersion, historical exploration, and natural beauty.

You are treated to a panorama of rugged mountains, lush cloud forests, and rich biodiversity, coupled with the mystery of ancient Inca ruins.

The Inca Trail is the most famous route - a four-day trek that weaves through a variety of ecosystems for an unforgettable experience.

However, if you want a less crowded alternative, the Salkantay Trek or the Lares Trek offer equally captivating but more serene paths.

The best time to climb this mountain is during the dry season, from May to September, when the weather in Machu Picchu is most favourable.

During this period, days are typically sunny, and nights are cool, making for ideal trekking conditions. 

However, it's crucial to book well in advance, especially for the Inca Trail, which has limited daily permits to preserve the site.

Ready to go? You can start with a Machu Picchu hike with us at Skyhook.

Huascarán is an awe-inspiring 6,768 metres peak in the Cordillera Blanca.

The slopes offer less challenging routes, making it an accessible choice when you're building skills in high-altitude ice and rock climbing.

Each step towards the summit promises not only the thrill of conquering Peru's highest peak but also panoramic views that encapsulate the vast Andean landscapes.

Want a technical climb in Peru? Chopicalqui in the Cordillera Blanca is a 6,354 metre mountain, with steep slopes and crevassed terrain that'll put your skills to the test. It's one of the hardest mountains to climb in South America.

However, the ascent to Chopicalqui's summit rewards you with awe-inspiring views of neighbouring peaks and glaciers, making it a premier choice among the best climbs in Peru.

Nestled in the Cordillera Blanca, Alpamayo is celebrated as the "most beautiful mountain in the world," offering both aesthetic allure and technical challenges for those seeking mountains to climb in Peru. 

With its iconic pyramidal shape standing 5,947 metres, Alpamayo earns its esteemed reputation among mountains to climb in Peru.

You can embark on a spiritual journey by conquering one of Peru's sacred mountains to climb - Ausangate. 

At 6,384 metres in the Ausangate region, this peak blends challenging ascents with cultural immersion as you traverse diverse landscapes and experience the rich Quechuan culture.

Ausangate's allure extends beyond the climb, with the vibrant Rainbow Mountain adding an extra layer of enchantment to this unique and spiritually significant ascent.

Raise your glass to a classic climb among Peru's mountains - Pisco in the Cordillera Blanca. 

At 5,752 metres, Mount Pisco is an ideal introduction to high-altitude climbing. With its straightforward ascent, this peak requires varying skill levels.

With that said, it is an opportunity for both novices and experienced mountaineers to revel in the classic Andean experience - and enjoy panoramic views of neighbouring landscapes.

Explore the symphony of peaks within the Cordillera Huayhuash, a region that features different peaks. 

Yerupajá, for example, has an elevation of 6,617 metres with varied terrain and difficulty levels for you to navigate. 

When in the Cordillera Huayhuash region, you get opportunities for an immersive and dynamic mountaineering experience amid Peru's breathtaking landscapes.

The Pirámide de Garcilaso is a distinctive pyramid-shaped peak in the Cordillera Blanca. 

At 5,885 metres, this mountain offers a unique challenge with its steep faces and intricate ridges.

You can enjoy the technical ascent and be rewarded with panoramic views of the surrounding peaks.

Cayesh is a striking peak in the Cordillera Blanca, at 5,646 metres. 

This mountain features steep granite faces, meaning the climb to Cayesh's summit is a blend of technical proficiency and appreciation for the rugged beauty that distinguishes it among Peru's diverse mountains.

Peru's diverse and famous mountains of the world offer a thrilling blend of adventure, culture, and natural beauty.

From the iconic Machu Picchu to the awe-inspiring peaks of Cayesh, there's a climb for every adventurer.

At Skyhook Adventure, we provide aspiring mountaineers a gateway to these breathtaking experiences, offering guided hiking holidays that seamlessly combine exploration with cultural immersion.

Whether you're a novice or experienced climber, Peru's mountains beckon with their unique challenges and panoramic vistas.

Embark on a journey that transcends physical heights and explores the soul-stirring beauty of the Andes.