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6 unforgettable treks in Cusco

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Visiting Cusco to welcome a new year is much more than seeing temples and colonial streets. It’s hitting reset—letting your body and mind breathe among towering mountains, colorful lagoons and ancient pathways. And if there’s one way to truly connect with this destination, it’s through walking it.

If you’re planning to start the year with intention and unforgettable landscapes, these 6 treks will recharge you from the inside out.

1) Humantay Lagoon: deep blue among Andean giants

A true Cusco classic. The trek begins in Soraypampa surrounded by snow-capped peaks, and the contrast between turquoise waters and glaciers creates a powerful sensation of “new beginnings”—as if the landscape itself invites you to close one cycle and open another.

Essentials

  • Altitude: ~4,200 m a.s.l.
  • Duration: Full day (3 hrs of hiking total)
  • Trek level: Moderate
  • Best season: January–March (vivid colors, softer sunlight)
  • Pro tip: Bring trekking poles and layers; trails are humid this time of year.

 

Why start the year here
That reflection of the Humantay glacier is the definition of “renewing your energy.”

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2) Rainbow Mountain (Vinicunca): nature that looks painted

A geological phenomenon unlike anything else. This time of year, there are fewer crowds, more silence and plenty of moments to take everything in at your own rhythm.

Essentials

  • Altitude: ~5,036 m a.s.l.
  • Duration: Full day (3–4 hrs of hiking)
  • Difficulty: Medium–high (mostly due to altitude)
  • Best season: Andean summer (crisp landscapes after rain)
  • Pro tip: Acclimatize in Cusco for 2 days beforehand.

 

Why start the year here
The scenery is greener, the air is fresher, and everything feels more peaceful.

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3) Piuray Lagoon: serene trekking near the city

A quiet and surprisingly beautiful walk. The lagoon mirrors the sky like glass and the setting invites you to disconnect.

Essentials

  • Altitude: ~3,700 m a.s.l.
  • Duration: Half day
  • Difficulty: Easy–moderate
  • Best season: January–April (lush and vibrant)
  • Pro tip: Combine it with a cultural visit to Chinchero.

 

Why start the year here
Perfect for clearing your mind, breathing pure air and enjoying a peaceful spot without crowds.

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4) Perolniyoc Waterfall: history and nature in the same trail

A trek that blends the energy of a waterfall with the mystique of pre-Incan ruins. A great option if you don’t want long-distance hiking.

Essentials

  • Altitude: ~3,460 m a.s.l.
  • Duration: Half day
  • Difficulty: Moderate
  • Best season: Summer (higher water flow)
  • Pro tip: Great for cloudy days; stable trails.

 

Why start the year here
It feels intimate, authentic and uncrowded—an ideal nature–culture mix.

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5) Short Inca Trail: an unforgettable classic

The one-day version lets you experience its essence without the multi-day trek. Reaching Machu Picchu through the Sun Gate is a moment you never forget.

Essentials

  • Altitude: 2,600–2,700 m a.s.l.
  • Duration: Full day trek
  • Difficulty: Moderate
  • Best season: Book in advance; pleasant cool weather during rains
  • Pro tip: Reservations required.

 

Why start the year here
It’s a symbolic and powerful way to begin—walking toward one of the world’s wonders.

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6) Qenqo Forest: nature and mysticism close to the city

Accessible and meaningful. A natural setting with rocks, trees, caves and panoramic views over the city.

Essentials

  • Altitude: ~3,600 m a.s.l.
  • Duration: 1–2 hrs
  • Difficulty: Easy
  • Best season: Summer afternoons; beautiful photo lighting
  • Pro tip: Best near sunset.

 

Why start the year here
Reflective, tranquil and perfect for a calm connection with nature.

A place to connect, rest and plan more adventures

Cusco is meant to be walked, breathed and felt — but also rested. At Atoq San Blas, we want that same serene energy to continue: a complete breakfast to recover after hiking, wide city views that inspire peace, quick access to starting points for treks, and spaces designed to unwind, sip something warm and end the day in calm. It’s not just lodging; it’s keeping the essence of trekking alive with comfort and silence, right in the heart of San Blas.