Planning a trip to Peru is exciting, especially when Machu Picchu is the highlight. But once the excitement settles, one big question usually comes up — which trek should we choose? There are several Machu Picchu treks, and while they all look breathtaking, the right one really depends on us. Our fitness level, our expectations, and the kind of journey we want all matter more than we think.

At True Mountain Traveler, we’ve guided people from all walks of life. Some are experienced hikers, others simply love to travel. What makes the difference isn’t being the fittest person in the group — it’s choosing a route that genuinely matches our ability and comfort.

Take an Honest Look at Your Activity Level

Before booking any trek, it helps to be realistic with ourselves. Do we stay active during the week? Are we comfortable walking uphill for a few hours? Have we ever done long hikes before?

Multi-day treks often involve 6 to 8 hours of walking each day on uneven terrain, sometimes climbing steep mountain passes. They’re incredibly rewarding, but they do require preparation and steady stamina. If we already enjoy hiking or cardio workouts, we’ll likely adapt well.

If not, that’s completely fine. There’s no rule that says we need to push ourselves to the limit to have an unforgettable experience.

Don’t Underestimate the Altitude

One thing many travelers don’t expect is how much altitude changes the experience. The Andes are beautiful, but hiking above 3,000 meters can feel very different from walking at sea level. Even fit travelers may feel short of breath or need more breaks — and that’s perfectly normal.

That’s why proper pacing and acclimatization are so important. At True Mountain Traveler, we carefully plan itineraries so we can adjust comfortably and actually enjoy the journey, instead of struggling through it.

There’s No “Perfect” Trek — Only the Right One for You

Some of us are looking for a challenge — early mornings, mountain passes, and that strong sense of accomplishment after days on the trail. Others prefer arriving at Machu Picchu feeling refreshed and energized rather than exhausted.

A shorter guided experience or scenic train journey can be just as meaningful. Standing before Machu Picchu for the first time is powerful, no matter how we get there.

Choose What Feels Right

The best trek is the one that excites us, not the one that feels intimidating. When we choose based on our comfort level, we’re far more likely to enjoy every step of the journey.

After all, the goal isn’t simply to reach Machu Picchu. It’s to arrive feeling proud, present, and ready to take in the moment fully.