Welcome to Peru, a land of captivating landscapes, rich history, and breathtaking trails. Lace up your running shoes and embark on an unforgettable journey through the heart of the Andes, where ancient ruins and natural wonders await. From the challenging peaks of the Cordillera Blanca to the mystical trails of the Sacred Valley, Peru offers a runner’s paradise like no other. Immerse yourself in the vibrant culture, awe-inspiring landscapes, and the spirit of adventure as you explore the remarkable running destinations of this South American gem.
When To Run In Peru
Peru’s diverse climate and topography make it a year-round destination for runners. The dry season, from May to September, is particularly popular, with mild temperatures and clear skies. This period is ideal for high-altitude runs in the Andean mountains, including the famous Inca Trail. The shoulder seasons of April and October offer pleasant weather and fewer crowds. The wet season, from November to March, brings lush greenery to the landscapes but also occasional rain showers. Whether you choose the dry or wet season, Peru’s enchanting trails will leave you spellbound.
The Must-Run Spots In Peru
Discover the must-run spots that showcase the best of Peru’s natural and cultural wonders:
Cusco: Gateway to the Inca Trail
Begin your Peruvian adventure in Cusco, the gateway to the iconic Inca Trail. Explore the ancient city’s cobblestone streets and acclimate to the high altitude before embarking on this legendary trail. Run through lush cloud forests, traverse ancient Inca staircases, and witness the sunrise over the majestic ruins of Machu Picchu. The Inca Trail is a bucket-list trail running experience that combines history, breathtaking views, and a sense of awe-inspiring achievement.
Huascarán National Park: Alpine Paradise
Journey to Huascarán National Park, home to the towering peaks of the Cordillera Blanca. Immerse yourself in the beauty of this alpine paradise as you navigate challenging trails that lead you through glacial valleys, turquoise lakes, and snow-capped mountains. Experience the thrill of high-altitude trail running and be rewarded with panoramic views that will take your breath away. Huascarán National Park is a haven for adventure seekers and trail running enthusiasts looking to push their limits.
Sacred Valley: Mystical Trails
Explore the mystical trails of the Sacred Valley, where ancient Inca ruins and traditional villages dot the landscape. Run along ancient terraces, through picturesque valleys, and beside rushing rivers as you uncover the secrets of this sacred land. Experience the transformative energy of sites like Pisac, Ollantaytambo, and Moray, where centuries-old ruins blend harmoniously with the natural surroundings. The Sacred Valley offers a unique blend of cultural immersion and trail running that will leave a lasting impression.
Run Travel Events in Peru 2023
July
Strive Trips – Running To Machu Picchu – July 20 – 29, 2023
Combine challenging, beautiful runs throughout Peru’s Sacred Valley with cultural experiences at famous artisan markets, an Inca citadel, hot springs, and, of course, a day at Machu Picchu.
Ongoing
This 9-day running adventure will introduce you to ancient ruins, Peruvian culture, and breathtaking scenery before you finish with a run to one of the new Wonders of the World, Machu Picchu, to delve even further into the ancient Inca ruins.
Stops include the Pisac Hilltop Ruins, the city of Chinchero, the Moray Circular Ruins, Pumamarca Ruins, and Machu Picchu.
Expand Your Running Horizons
Peru is just the beginning of a world filled with extraordinary running adventures. Embark on a trail running expedition in the rugged landscapes of New Zealand, experience the mystical allure of Morocco’s trails, or discover the hidden gems of Mexico’s running routes. Explore our supporting articles to unlock a world of exhilarating running destinations across the globe.
More about running in Peru
Here are our recent stories about running experiences in Peru.