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running trips: your next adventure awaits image

Running Trips

running trips: your next adventure awaits

Take your running journey to new heights with unforgettable trips that break away from the ordinary. Discover personalized running adventures that allow you to explore iconic landscapes across the globe. Perfect for those who seek adventure, these trips combine physical endurance with cultural immersion, leading you off the beaten path to experience destinations in their purest essence.

ExplorandesNov 19, 2024

Running Trips 

 

Running isn’t just about the miles—it’s about the journey, the landscapes, and the connections we make along the way. For those who crave adventure, running trips blend physical endurance with cultural immersion, taking you beyond the usual routes to discover destinations in their truest form. 

 

Best Running Destinations 

 

From mountain trails to coastal paths, there are countless places worldwide that cater to runners of all levels. Countries like Switzerland, Italy, Japan, and New Zealand have well-marked paths suited for all kinds of running, offering everything from flat, beginner-friendly trails to challenging high-altitude runs. 

 

Notably, Peru boasts a network of trails that often follow ancient pathways left behind by ancient civilizations like the Incas. This region is steeped in the chaski running culture, a tradition where skilled runners, or "chasquis," would carry messages and goods across vast distances using an extensive network of trails known as the Qhapaq Ñan, or the Great Inca Road. Embracing this heritage, runners in Peru can experience a modern twist on these routes. The varied altitudes and climates create unique training opportunities, while the stunning scenery, including terraced hillsides and vibrant local communities, enhances every run. This combination of natural beauty and cultural history makes running in Peru a remarkable experience.  

 

Running Trails 

 

Trail running offers a break from urban landscapes, allowing runners to traverse mountains, forests, deserts, and more. Unlike running on pavement, trails invite runners into wild, often untouched areas.  

 

Trail running also offers a variety of technical challenges, from managing elevation changes to navigating narrow, winding paths that require quick footwork and focused attention. For those who crave a combination of endurance and exploration, trail running offers a profound sense of accomplishment at every turn. 

 

Running Abroad 

 

Every trail has a story. From paths worn by centuries of travelers to secluded routes that reveal nature’s hidden wonders, running abroad allows you to connect with the soul of each location and opens the door to new cultural experiences. It’s a way to see a different side of the countries you visit, often bringing you off the beaten path and away from typical tourist destinations.  

 

Many regions worldwide have become famous for trail running events, drawing travelers to race through stunning locations that vary in difficulty, catering to both novice and experienced runners. Countries like France, Spain, and Peru, with its stunning Andean mountain routes, have rich running cultures that welcome runners from around the world. The Andes Race in Cusco, Peru offers a particularly exhilarating challenge, with race distances ranging from a challenging 13K to a grueling 100K. The event, which is held annually during the month of August to coincide with the dry season, caters to both ambitious newcomers and seasoned ultrarunners. Each course takes participants through rugged terrain and remote villages, making it a unique cultural and physical journey that captures the spirit of Peru’s mountain landscapes. 

 

Joining a local race can enhance your travel experience by connecting you with like-minded people and offering scenic routes that leave unforgettable memories. 

 

Multi-Day Running 

 

Multi-day running is ideal for those who want to immerse themselves deeply in a region while building endurance over several days. These trips often cover extensive terrain, providing varied daily challenges, but with manageable daily distances. Spanning 3-5 days, you’ll encounter countless opportunities to navigate ascents and descents, uncovering new perspectives and breathtaking views. 

 

In Peru, the Choquequirao-to-Machu Picchu route is a prime example. This four-day, 72-km trail leads runners through remote Andean terrain, past ancient ruins, and culminates at the world famous site of Machu Picchu—a perfect blend of physical challenge and cultural immersion. 

 

Running Vacations 

 

Imagine a running vacation where every detail is expertly planned—so all you have to do is show up, enjoy the trails, and take in the beauty around you. 

 

Running vacations are tailored trips that balance running with relaxation, allowing travelers to indulge in their passion without missing out on a true vacation experience, like enjoying high-quality accommodations, gourmet meals, and exploration off the trail. A running vacation usually comprises small groups with expert guides, and daily running options that are suitable for all abilities.  

 

Running Trip Planning 

 

Planning a running trip involves more than just booking flights and accommodations. Here are a few steps to ensure a smooth journey: 

  1. Route Research: Understand the trail difficulty and necessary permits, if any.  
  2. Packing Essentials: Prioritize comfort, durability, and weather-appropriate gear. Trail shoes, lightweight clothes, hydration packs, and navigation tools are key. 
  3. Acclimation and Training: If your trip involves high-altitude routes (like those in Peru), acclimating to the altitude a few days before starting is crucial for your comfort and safety. 
  4. Environmental Awareness: Runners often venture into pristine environments, so respecting local regulations and minimizing environmental impact is essential. 


By planning carefully, a running trip can be a highly fulfilling journey that combines personal challenge, natural beauty, and cultural exploration. Whether you’re considering the iconic trails of the Andes in Peru or runs in another corner of the world, there’s no shortage of thrilling, picturesque routes awaiting runners. 

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ExpertTraveler'sBlog
this season featured experiences
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inca-trail-to-machu-picchu-image
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March - December

5 days / 4 nights

This 5-day journey begins at Km 82, the marker that signifies the start of the famous Inca Trail to Machu Picchu. Our highly trained guides, who are deeply familiar with these ancient Inca footpaths, will expertly lead us through the magnificent Andean terrain. Along the way, we’ll traverse breathtaking high alpine passes, lush valleys, dense cloud forests, and rushing rivers. We’ll pass through ancient Inca remains of Andean settlements, ultimately arriving at Machu Picchu via Inti Punku (the Sun Gate). Each night, our team of porters and skilled cooks will have a delicious hot meal and a comfortable camp already set up for your convenience. Since we highly value sustainable tourism, we’ll have very little impact on the land, communities, and environment we encounter along the trail, and we will also take steps to enjoy a tranquil hike, avoiding crowds of fellow trekkers. On the final day, a guided tour of the citadel will bring Machu Picchu to life, as we explore and immerse ourselves in the magic and beauty of this ancient, mystical site. Our version of the Inca trail to Machu Picchu trek is truly an unforgettable experience you’ll reminisce about for years to come.
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1290
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huayhuash-trek-image
huayhuash trek

April - October

12 days / 11 nights

The Huayhuash Trek is an amazing journey to the very heart of the Cordillera Huayhuash, the second highest tropical mountain range in the world. A trekker's paradise, this terrain is remote, wild, and stunningly beautiful. The film Touching the Void, the tale of climbers Joe Simpson and Simon Yates, was made about their harrowing experience as the first mountaineers to scale Siula Grande, which is part of this mountain range. This version of the Huayhuash trek crosses six high passes over 4500 m (14,763 ft) and two that are higher than 5000 m (16,404 ft)! Throughout the 12 days of the trek, we camp next to stunningly beautiful alpine lakes and in broad, grassy valleys replete with wildflowers and rushing alpine creeks, while basking in the imposing presence of the White Mountains looming over us, with peaks at elevations above 5000 m (16,404 ft) and 6000 m (19,685 ft). At least three days of acclimatization hikes in the area are strongly recommended to be able to enjoy the trek.
From
1750
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ancascocha-trek-image
ancascocha trek & the short inca trail

March - December

5 days / 4 nights

National Geographic Magazine has rated this Inca Trail alternative trek as one of the top hikes in the world! This Ancascocha Trek & the Short Inca Trail is truly the road less traveled by, for those who crave time away from crowds, amidst the beauty of nature. The journey begins at the Parpishu Footbridge and ascends amidst the dramatic backdrop of Mts. Salkantay and Verónica. Crossing through rugged terrain, remote mountain communities, ancient ruins, and diverse ecosystems for around 37 km (23 mi), the trek culminates at the village of Camicancha, near Km 77 on the railroad tracks to Machu Picchu. On day 4, we will board the train to Km 104 to walk along the pathway that covers the final stretch of the Inca Trail, where you will have a taste of the famous longer Inca Trail hike, and the thrill of entering Machu Picchu through Inti Punku, the Gate of the Sun. On our last day of the Ancascocha Trek & the Short Inca Trail, we will spend time exploring Machu Picchu, one of the ancient wonders of the world.
From
1290
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HIKING&TREKKING
running-inca-trails-image
running the inca trails - choquequirao to machu picchu

April - November

8 days / 7 nights

On this run, we will traverse an incredible Inca highway consisting of over 125 km (77.7 mi) of ancient roads. The activities include trail running, enjoying the tranquility of nature, and exploring two amazing and enigmatic archaeological sites. We will cross through highly varied terrain of diverse ecosystems: from majestic rivers at 1500 masl (4921 fasl) to high mountain passes at 4650 masl (15,256 fasl); from tropical rainforests to imposing glaciers; from the territory of the endangered spectacled bear to the skyways of majestic condors in flight; all combining to make this a unique and memorable experience. The route begins in the town of Capuliyoc and passes through the famous archaeological complex of Choquequirao. We’ll visit small villages along the route, running lightly over intact Inca paths winding through the mountains, and ending at the mystical ancient citadel of Machu Picchu.
From
2310
/ Per Person
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