The best walks and hikes in the Cordillera Oriental Peru Bolivia

There are over 40 hiking routes recorded in the Cordillera Oriental Peru Bolivia on komoot, catering to various skill levels. This includes 12 easy, 20 moderate, and 10 difficult trails, ensuring options for every type of hiker.

The Cordillera Oriental is rich in dramatic natural features. You can explore the vibrant mineral stripes of Rainbow Mountain (Vinicunca), or experience the high-altitude challenges of the Salkantay Pass. Other significant points include the iconic Huayna Picchu near Machu Picchu and the challenging Pico Austria Summit, offering breathtaking views of glaciated peaks.

The trails in the Cordillera Oriental Peru Bolivia are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 330 reviews. Hikers frequently praise the region's diverse and dramatic landscapes, from towering snow-capped peaks and extensive glaciers to unique geological formations and ancient Inca trails.

Yes, many routes in the Cordillera Oriental are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end in the same location. An example is the Rainbow Mountain (Vinicunca) loop from Chillca, a moderate 4.3-mile trail. Another option is the challenging Pico Austria Summit – Laguna Chiar Khota loop from La Rincondada, which offers stunning panoramic views.

The dry season, typically from May to October, is generally considered the best time for hiking in the Cordillera Oriental. During these months, you can expect clearer skies and less rainfall, which makes high-altitude trekking more enjoyable and safer. However, be prepared for cold temperatures, especially at higher elevations.

While many trails are challenging due to high altitudes, there are easier options suitable for families. For instance, the Machu Picchu Viewpoint – Machu Picchu loop from Machu Picchu is an easy 1.2-mile trail that takes about 36 minutes, offering a unique cultural experience. Another easy option is the Hiking loop from Chillca, which is about 2.4 miles long.

The diverse ecosystems of the Cordillera Oriental, ranging from high-altitude mountains to semi-tropical valleys, support a variety of wildlife. Keep an eye out for llamas, alpacas, and vicuñas in the higher regions. Birdwatchers might spot Andean condors soaring overhead, and various species of hummingbirds and other endemic birds in the lower, more vegetated areas.

Absolutely. The Cordillera Oriental is steeped in ancient Inca heritage. The region around Cusco, with its historical cathedral and Plaza de Armas, serves as a cultural hub. Many trails, like the famous Salkantay Trek, follow ancient Inca paths, leading to iconic sites such as Machu Picchu. Bolivia also features historic trails like the Choro Trek, which descends from the mountains to the tropical Yungas.

Elevation gains vary significantly depending on the trail's difficulty. Easy routes, such as the Machu Picchu Viewpoint loop, have minimal gains around 78 meters. Moderate trails, like the Rainbow Mountain (Vinicunca) loop from Chillihuani, involve around 330 meters of ascent. Difficult routes, such as the View of Huayna Potosí loop from Refugio Nuevo Llaulini, can feature substantial climbs, exceeding 1250 meters.

Hiking in the Cordillera Oriental often involves significant altitudes, with many peaks exceeding 5,000 meters. It's crucial to acclimatize properly to avoid altitude sickness. Plan for gradual ascents, stay hydrated, and be aware of symptoms. Trails like the Pico Austria Summit – Laguna Chiar Khota loop are at high elevations and require good physical condition and preparation.

Yes, some of the more popular and protected areas, especially those leading to major archaeological sites like Machu Picchu or within national parks, require permits. It's advisable to research specific permit requirements for your chosen route well in advance, as some, like the Inca Trail, have limited availability and must be booked months ahead.

Access to trailheads by public transport varies. Major towns like Cusco offer various options for reaching popular starting points for treks like the Salkantay or Rainbow Mountain. However, for more remote trails, public transport might be limited, and you may need to arrange private transportation or join an organized tour to reach the trailhead.