HIKING PERU: TIPS TO CHOOSE THE PERFECT SHOES AND BEYOND

Hiking Peru means traversing a landscape that ranges from the rugged Andean highlands to the Exuberant Rainforest, and the importance of lacing up the right footwear for adventure can’t be overstated. Therefore, the decision between hiking shoes and trekking shoes involves many factors that impact your comfort and performance.

In this blog, we show the differences between these two types of footwear, providing insights to aid in your decision-making process for the diverse pathways throughout Peru.

Hiking Shoes: A Versatile Companion for Different Trails

Hiking shoes are the Swiss Army knife of footwear, suitable for hiking Peru through a variety of terrains, from well-groomed trails along the short inca trail to wide paths from the Huchuy Qosqo hike. Here are the key characteristics of hiking shoes:

• Low-Cut Design: Hiking shoes often feature a low-cut design, providing flexibility and freedom of movement around the ankle. This design is perfect for one-day hikes such as the rainbow mountain and Humantay lake, owing to these trails are less strenuous and your ankle support may not be a crucial factor.
• Lightweight and Agile: Hiking shoes prioritize agility and comfort. They are ideal for passengers who prefer a nimble feel underfoot and are suitable for short hikes in the phenomenal jungle.
• Breathability for Comfort: Many hiking shoes are designed with breathable materials to ensure your feet stay comfortable, especially in warmer environments as the boundless jungle. This feature becomes particularly valuable when exploring natural treasures in lower elevations in Peru.

Trekking Shoes: For Challenging Terrain

Trekking shoes, on the other hand, are designed to provide robust support and stability, making them suitable for more demanding and rugged terrains such as Salkantay trek or Choquequirao trek. Here are the distinguishing features of trekking shoes:

• Mid to High-Cut Design for Ankle Support: Trekking shoes often come with a mid to high-cut design, offering additional ankle support. This design proves beneficial when trekking the inca trail and rocky terrains, a common feature in parts of the Andean region.
• Durability and Stability: Recognizing the challenges of more demanding trails, trekking shoes are crafted with durability in mind. They provide a robust structure designed to endure the challenges of rugged trails, providing better stability on steep surfaces and protection from potential hazards while hiking Peru.
• Waterproofing for Unpredictable Weather: Many trekking shoes get equipped with waterproof or water-resistant features, a valuable asset when trekking through many climates such as the trek from Salkantay Glacier to The Phenomenal Jungle where you encounter unpredictable weather conditions. This feature is especially beneficial for those exploring the Andean highlands.

Hiking Peru to Appreciate Diverse Landscapes

Peru boasts a sort of landscapes, ranging from the high Andean mountains to the wonderful rainforest and the coastal regions; therefore, you must get to know the following considerations when selecting your footwear:

• Andean Highlands: For treks along the Andean highlands such as Inca Quarry Trail to Machu Picchu, where rocky paths and uneven terrain are common, trekking shoes with ankle support and durability are highly recommended to ensure stability and protect against potential injuries.
• Amazon Rainforest: If your journey takes you into Tambopata rainforest, where high humidity and the potential for wet conditions exist, lightweight and breathable hiking shoes may be more suitable to keep your feet comfortable in this tropical environment.
• Coastal Regions: Coastal regions in Peru may feature a mix of sandy paths and well-maintained trails. Therefore, hiking shoes could provide the necessary comfort and flexibility for these terrains. Although, if you get The Andean Trail to the Jungle package, you must bring with you trekking shoes, due to this journey goes through coast, Andes and jungle.

Long-Term Comfort and Preferences

Beyond the technical features, the choice between hiking and trekking shoes for hiking Peru ultimately boils down to personal comfort and preference. Factors such as your typical hiking style and any specific foot-related concerns should guide your decision.

Moreover, consider the duration of hiking Peru. For multi-day excursions where you’ll be covering extensive distances, ensuring long-term comfort becomes paramount. The appropriate choice of footwear can significantly impact your endurance and enjoyment during your tours in Cusco or journeys along Tambopata.

In addition, it’s essential to test and break in your chosen footwear before embarking on a significant trek within mountains and jungles. This helps prevent discomfort, blisters, and other issues that may arise if your shoes do not fit your feet properly.

Hiking Peru may be tough, but now you’re prepared

Choosing the right footwear is an important step in ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable adventure in Peru’s diverse landscapes. Whether you are up for the versatility of hiking shoes or the robust support of trekking shoes, understanding the main differences and considering the specific demands of your journey will help you make an informed decision. 

Finally, your choice of footwear is not just a practical consideration but a crucial companion in the discovery of Peru’s outstanding natural wonders.

So, lace up your chosen pair, hit the trails, and let the breathtaking landscapes of Peru become the backdrop for your unforgettable exploration with us. Click here to get in contact!