salkantay trek vs kilimanjaro

Comparing the Salkantay Trek and Kilimanjaro

The Salkantay Trek and Kilimanjaro are two of the most popular treks in the world. Both treks offer breathtaking views, unique experiences, and an unforgettable journey. But while they both promise incredible adventures, they also have their differences. In this article, we compare the Salkantay Trek and Kilimanjaro to help you decide which trek is right for you.

The Salkantay Trek is a four- or five-day trek in the Peruvian Andes. It takes trekkers from the foothills of the majestic Salkantay Snowy Mountain to the ruins of Machu Picchu. Along the way, trekkers have the chance to take in some of the most beautiful mountain scenery in the world.

Kilimanjaro, on the other hand, is a seven-day trek in Tanzania. It takes trekkers to the summit of Africa’s highest peak, where they can enjoy spectacular views of the African plains and savannahs. During the trek, trekkers will pass through five climate zones, each with its own unique atmosphere and flora and fauna.

A Look at the Differences and Similarities

The Salkantay Trek and Kilimanjaro have several differences. The Salkantay Trek is shorter and easier, making it suitable for those with less experience. Kilimanjaro, on the other hand, is longer and more challenging, making it better suited for experienced trekkers. The terrain of the two treks is also different, with the Salkantay Trek featuring more rugged terrain and Kilimanjaro featuring more gradual slopes.

At the same time, there are also several similarities between the two treks. Both treks are incredibly scenic and will provide trekkers with an unforgettable adventure. Additionally, both treks involve camping and sleeping in tents, while providing food and guides to ensure that trekkers are safe and comfortable.

Whether you choose the Salkantay Trek or Kilimanjaro, you’re guaranteed to have an amazing experience. Both treks will provide you with incredible views, unique experiences, and an unforgettable journey. By doing some research and comparing the two treks, you can decide which trek is right for you.

About The Author

Kilimanjaro Centre For Trekking

Related posts, trekking kilimanjaro: the best route.

Climb the highest peak in Africa - Mt. Kilimanjaro - with the best route!

Read More »

Climbing Kilimanjaro: An Inspiring Adventure Awaits!

Climb Kilimanjaro and unlock an inspiring adventure!

Exploring Kilimanjaro: Trek Reviews & Tips

Experience the wonders of Kilimanjaro with our trek reviews & tips.

Safari Sunrises: Experience Kilimanjaro’s Wildlife Wonders

Experience Africa's wildlife wonders at sunrise on a Kilimanjaro safari!

Essential Gear for Climbing Mount Kilimanjaro

Essential gear for climbing Mt. Kilimanjaro: Clothing, shoes, and more.

Climbing to New Heights: The Kilimanjaro Hike

Climb to new heights with a Kilimanjaro hike! An inspiring journey awaits.

Climbing Kilimanjaro: Exploring Africa’s Richest Map

Climbing Kilimanjaro: Unlock Africa's richest map!

Live View From Mount Kilimanjaro: A Webcam Perspective

Witness the majesty of Mt. Kilimanjaro with a live webcam view.

Newland Trekking

Phone/WhatsApp

Comparing the Salkantay Trek and Kilimanjaro December 14, 2023 Posted by: mohamed Category: Mount Kilimanjaro No Comments The Salkantay Trek and Kilimanjaro are two of the most popular treks in the world. Both treks offer breathtaking views, unique experiences, and an unforgettable journey. But while they both promise incredible adventures, they also have their differences. In this article, we compare the Salkantay Trek and Kilimanjaro to help you decide which trek is right for you. Comparing the Salkantay Trek and Kilimanjaro

The Salkantay Trek is a four- or five-day trek in the Peruvian Andes. It takes trekkers from the foothills of the majestic Salkantay Snowy Mountain to the ruins of Machu Picchu. Along the way, trekkers have the chance to take in some of the most beautiful mountain scenery in the world.

Kilimanjaro, on the other hand, is a seven-day trek in Tanzania. It takes trekkers to the summit of Africa’s highest peak, where they can enjoy spectacular views of the African plains and savannahs. During the trek, trekkers will pass through five climate zones, each with its own unique atmosphere and flora and fauna.

A Look at the Differences and Similarities

The Salkantay Trek and Kilimanjaro have several differences. The Salkantay Trek is shorter and easier, making it suitable for those with less experience. Kilimanjaro, on the other hand, is longer and more challenging, making it better suited for experienced trekkers. The terrain of the two treks is also different, with the Salkantay Trek featuring more rugged terrain and Kilimanjaro featuring more gradual slopes.

At the same time, there are also several similarities between the two treks. Both treks are incredibly scenic and will provide trekkers with an unforgettable adventure. Additionally, both treks involve camping and sleeping in tents, while providing food and guides to ensure that trekkers are safe and comfortable.

Whether you choose the Salkantay Trek or Kilimanjaro, you’re guaranteed to have an amazing experience. Both treks will provide you with incredible views, unique experiences, and an unforgettable journey. By doing some research and comparing the two treks, you can decide which trek is right for you.

Contact us at the Consulting WP office nearest to you or submit a business inquiry online.

The Salkantay Trek: How to Hike to Machu Picchu

By Author Steph Dyson

Posted on Last updated: 20th February 2024

Hiking to Machu Picchu is a bucket-list destination for many. But what many visitors to Peru don’t realise is that there are far more options than just the Inca trail for reaching this world-famous Inca city tucked high into the Andes – such as my new favorite, the Salkantay trek to Machu Picchu. 

The Inca trail is the most famous of all the hikes to Machu Picchu and follows the route of the Qhapaq Ñan or Royal Road. This Inca stone pathway weaves through valleys and across mountains to arrive at the Sun Gate, a doorway into Machu Picchu that sits high above the city.

But, for me, a fan of beyond-the-beaten-path destinations , it is the Salkantay trek that I’ve been long waiting to experience. 

I’d been bewitched by the idea of hiking to Machu Picchu via this alternative route ever since I first lived in Cusco back in 2015. However, life got in the way and I never stepped foot on the path. 

But this year, when Alpaca Expeditions asked me to join them on the Salkantay trail, I jumped at the chance. With the country now fully open to tourists (albeit numbers down to 30% of pre-pandemic levels), there has probably never been a better time to go to Machu Picchu, particularly as there are far fewer hikers on the trails than you would traditionally find. 

Whether you’ve been dreaming about reaching Machu Picchu via this lesser-known route or have had to switch up your plans because the Inca trail is fully booked, here’s everything you need to know about hiking the Salkantay trek. 

Click to navigate this article:

Key facts about the Salkantay trek

How many miles is the salkantay trek.

The Salkantay is a roughly 66-kilometre (41-mile) hike that starts in the sleepy hamlet of Soraypampa and ends at Aguas Calientes, the town below Machu Picchu. There are various different routes that you can take, depending on how many days you want to walk and which company you’re hiking with. 

The most common route is the five-day, four-night route, whereby you leave Cusco around 4 am and start on the trail around 8 am, scaling the Salkantay Pass on day one and arrive in Aguas Calientes on the evening of day four to spend the final day at Machu Picchu. 

Alpaca Expeditions, like a handful of other companies, have their own glass-roofed huts at Soraypampa, where the trek begins. This means that they take their groups to the trailhead the day before (departing at 3 pm from Cusco) to allow you to start early and beat the other hikers to the trailhead. As a result, they advertise their trek as a five-day/five-night Salkantay hike . 

Their hikes also include the route up to Lago Humantay, which adds an extra three hundred metres of ascent and descent to the first day’s hike, plus the incredible scenery of this turquoise lake. 

What is the elevation of the Salkantay trek?

The Salkantay trek starts at Soraypampa at an elevation of 3,900 metres above sea level. The elevation profile for the rest of the hike is as follows:

Day One: Soraypampa (3,900 metres) – Humantay Lake (4,200 metres) – Soraypampa (3,900 metres) – Salkantay Pass (4,620 metres) – Wayramachay (3,800 metres)  Distance covered: 20 kilometres (12.5 miles) Total elevation gain: 1,020 metres Total elevation loss: 1,120 metres

Day Two: Wayramachay (3,800 metres) – Loreta (2,200 metres) Distance covered: 20 kilometres (12.5 miles) Total elevation gain: 200 metres Total elevation loss: 1,600 metres

Day Three: Loreta (2,200 metres) – Llactapata (2,700 metres) Distance covered: 12 kilometres (8.7 miles) Total elevation gain: 600 metres Total elevation loss: 400 metres

Day Four: Llactapata (2,700 metres) – Hidroelectrica (1,820 metres) – Aguas Calientes (2,000 metres) Distance covered: 15 kilometres (9.3 miles) Total elevation gain: 180 metres Total elevation loss: 880 metres

The first night sleeping at altitude you’re inside a cabin, with a sleeping bag (either your own or rented) and it’s pretty cosy. The second night was also at altitude and despite the sleeping bag, extra blankets, two sleeping mats and hot water bottle that Alpaca provided, I was still a bit cold and ended up sleeping in my down jacket. 

I highly recommend bringing a down jacket (mine is this one from Jack Wolfskin but you can find plenty of down jackets at REI ) plus a waterproof coat (mine is this one from Patagonia ; for men from Patagonia | REI | Backcountry ).

They did give us rain ponchos but frankly, any sort of plastic coat is a recipe for sweaty hiking, so I much prefer to have a breathable, lightweight coat that’s great as a windproof layer at high elevations and also as protection against any downpours. 

How fit do I need to be to hike the Salkantay trek?

The Salkantay trek is a moderate hike. The challenge comes from the amount of ascent and distance you’re required to cover on day one, as well as the altitude at which you’re hiking. 

The toughest day by far is day one. Not only do you gain 300 metres to reach the dazzling waters of Lago Humantay, but you lose them again as you drop back off the mountain and then climb a further 720 metres to reach the Salkantay Pass. Because you’re hiking at altitude, it won’t be long until you realise how thin the air feels (and how little of it seems to be going into your lungs). If you’re relatively fit and can cope with covering 20 kilometres (12.5 miles) in a day, you shouldn’t have any issues. 

Many of my group who had flown straight from home to Peru and hadn’t had time to acclimate beforehand in Cusco for a couple of days really struggled with the first day of the trek. 

Therefore I strongly recommend spending at least two days in Cusco before the hike for acclimatisation purposes and also speaking to your doctor to get a prescription for Diamox – tablets that help your body cope at high altitudes. You’ll want to take the tablets once per day, starting 24 hours before you start the trek and continuing until day three when you won’t need them anymore. 

How can you prepare for the high-altitude Salkantay trek?

While being moderately fit and physically able to walk at least 20 kilometres (12.5 miles) at lower elevations is essential, preparing for high-altitude trekking is challenging. This is because you can’t predict how your body will react when it’s faced with these conditions – particularly as it’s not impacted by how fit, young or healthy you are. In fact, even the fittest people can suffer horrible altitude sickness.

As a result, the best preparation for hiking the Salkantay trek is to arrive in Cusco at least two days before the trek begins to give your body time to acclimate. Get plenty of sleep, stay hydrated and be sure to get some Diamox to help your body adjust. 

Do I need to book the Salkantay trek months in advance like the Inca trail?

Unlike the Inca trail, where there is a limit of 400 trekkers per day and so tickets can be sold out up to six months in advance, there are no limits for the Salkantay trek. This makes it an excellent alternative if you’d been hoping to hike the Inca trail but have found that there isn’t any space. 

The only restriction you’ll face is on the availability of entry tickets to Machu Picchu, so it’s still worth trying to book at least a few weeks in advance, particularly if you’re travelling between June and August. As a result, you’ll find it a good idea to book your trek in advance before you arrive in Peru; you can also check out what we think are the best times to visit Machu Picchu  before deciding when to travel.

Better still, while an unlimited number of hikers allowed on the trailhead doesn’t sound fun, if you trek with Alpaca Expeditions, you’ll likely not see anyone else. This is because they schedule the trek to avoid all of the other tours leaving from Soraypampa. Through this wizardry, during the entirety of the five-day trek, we met only six other hikers.

The five-day Salkantay trek to Machu Picchu

The Inca trail is famous for taking you along a stretch of the Qhapaq Ñan or Royal Road, a path used by Inca royalty as well as pilgrims and other administrators to travel between Cusco and Machu Picchu. 

However, what you probably didn’t know is that the Salkantay actually travels along a stretch of Inca road on day three, allowing you to have a little bit of the same experience, just without sharing it with anyone else.

Planning Your Trip to Peru?

Save time, stress & money with a customized travel itinerary planned for you by a Peru expert

What previous clients have said:

Going to a new and exciting place is an adventure AND has its challenges. Being able to carve out an in-depth plan with someone that has been there and whom you can trust was extremely helpful. We felt comfortable embarking on a six-week backpacking trip with kids ages 8 and 11 with Steph on our team. Her expertise and ability to hear what we wanted gave us a great jumping point for planning. Her advice and wide array of options also allowed us to be flexible. It also gave us peace of mind knowing that we had someone we could call if our plans went awry. Every one of Steph’s recommendations panned out to be incredible pieces of our trips and we would highly recommend her!

The scenery is also spectacular and involves a little bit of each of the microclimates that are found surrounding Cusco, and which pay host to everything from spectacled bears (the inspiration for Paddington!) to llamas, alpacas, condors and vizcachas (chinchilla-like rodents).

You travel from high mountain passes to lush cloud forest in just over a day, while you’re always far enough away from towns and villages to have gorgeous starry skies at night. 

Want a cheeky 5% discount on the Salkantay trek?

Alpaca Expeditions  are not only one of the most sustainable companies offering Salkantay and Inca trail treks to Machu Picchu, but their guides, porters and chefs are the ultimate hosts.

They’re now offering Worldly Adventurer readers a 5% discount on all of their hikes – use discount code WorldlyAdventurer when you enquire!

Best of all, unlike on the Inca trail, you don’t share campgrounds with other groups. In fact, we saw only six other hikers from when we started the hike to when we reached Hidroelectrica and began the final trek along the railway line. Therefore, if you’re like me and prefer hiking in destinations where you aren’t surrounded by others, this is the perfect route for you. 

But what’s the hike like day by day? Here’s an itinerary of what you can expect on the Salkantay trek. 

Day Minus One: Pre-trek information session

• Distance hiked: 0
• Total elevation gain: 0
• Total elevation loss: 0
• Time on the trail: 0

I started my Salkantay trek experience two days before we actually started hiking. This is because Alpaca Expeditions invited all of my group to their office in Cusco for a short information session to go over everything we needed to know before we started the hike. 

It was a quick, 15-minute meeting with our guide, Isao, where we were given our lime green duffel bags (for up to seven kilograms of clothes and other items for the hike that would be taken on mules), bright green rain ponchos and rucksack rain covers.

We were also able to reserve a sleeping bag, sleeping mat and trekking poles at this stage, while they made recommendations for essentials we needed to bring (bug spray – bring plenty!).

If I’d been sensible and brought some with me, I would have started taking Diamox this evening or on day zero to help prepare my body for the altitude. Don’t be like me: I highly recommend discussing Diamox or similar with your doctor if you’re planning a short trip to Peru to hike the Salkantay. This is because going directly from sea level to an altitude of up to 4,620 metres (15,157 ft) can be extremely dangerous – trust me: you don’t want to feel as shit as those people in my group who did this.

Day Zero: Cusco to Soyrapampa

On day zero you’ll have time for a relaxed morning and lunch in Cusco, before you’re picked up at your hotel by the Alpaca Expeditions team around 3pm. The minibus will head directly out of Cusco for the spectacular drive through the Andes to the first night’s accommodation.

It’s three and a half hours of serpentine roads with sheer, vertiginous roadsides and lush valleys lined with avocado plants. Keep your eyes peeled for the first glimpses of Nevada Salkantay; we saw it sink into darkness as the sun set behind its snow-laden peak before our van began gaining altitude quickly.

After about two and a half hours you’ll stop in Mollepata, a tiny town en route, to use the toilets and then stock up on any remaining items you might have forgotten, before an hour later reaching the first night’s accommodation: Soraypampa and its glass-roofed cabins. 

If luck’s on your side, the stars should be bright and your chef, sous chef and their merry band of porters will quickly rustle up a delicious two-course meal, giving you plenty of time to head to bed and sleep beneath the stars before an early wake-up call the next morning. 

Day One: Soraypampa – Humantay Lake – Salkantay Pass – Wayracmachay

• Distance hiked: 20 kilometres (12.5 miles)
• Total elevation gain: 1,020 metres (3,346 feet)
• Total elevation loss: 1,120 metres (3,674 feet)
• Time on the trail: Around six hours, plus lunch and breaks 

Day one starts early. At 4.30 am, you’ll be woken up by a knock at the door. For us, it was by Juan Carlos, our second guide, bearing coca tea (coca leaves infused in water) to help settle heads and stomachs from any potential altitude sickness. 

While there are flushing toilets at this accommodation, showers there are not, but your guides will ensure you have hot water for washing hands and faces at every mealtime along the trek.

There will be time for a filling breakfast – omelettes, pancakes, cereal and bread – and to pick up snacks and water ready for the day. Today will be the hardest of the entire trek – there’s no gentle first day to ease you into it – so eat plenty and stay hydrated. You’ll need all the energy you can get. 

At this stage, your body, with the help of Diamox, should be starting to acclimatise to the altitude and be ready for the two-hour climb up to Lago Humantay. Mine felt ok, but as we began the trek, climbing a gentle gravel road that became a steep trail as it emerged out of the valley and up to the shores of Lago Humantay, my lungs were burning and the effort of hiking was already beginning to feel like a challenge. 

At the top, there’s time to relax, take copious photos and dive into your snacks, before you head back down the way you came, joining the main Salkantay trail back at the bottom of the valley.

For us, we began the ascent to the Salkantay Pass around 10 am, relieved to discover that the other groups of hikers for that day’s walk were long gone, leaving us the trail to ourselves as we passed meadows filled with llamas and then the barren slopes of Nevada Salkantay. 

Keep your eyes peeled for stone-coloured vizcachas hiding in the rocks alongside the trail; these chinchilla-like rodents live in this otherwise empty landscape. 

After a further 4.5 hours, and about an hour from the top, you should arrive at your first lunch: prepare to be amazed by what your chef and porters can put together, despite being miles from civilization. 

Our chef, Sergio, his sous chef and porters had prepared us an extensive lunch of roast chicken, salads, rice and plenty of vegetables to help give us enough energy to get over the pass. If you’re lucky and well acclimatised, you’ll be feeling extremely hungry right now, so fill your boots and also have a good few cups of coca tea – they’ll help stave off any incoming headache. 

From lunch, it’s a thankfully short final hour to reach the Salkantay Pass. At 4,620 metres above sea level (15,157 feet) and in the shadows of snow-capped Salkantay,  it’s the highest point on the trek and you deserve to celebrate here.

We followed Quechua traditions and made an offering to the Apus (the Gods of the mountains) of some coca leaves given to us by our guide, Isao, while making three wishes. I’m fairly certain at least a few members of the group were wishing to get out of there quickly!

After the pass, it’s a long, two-hour hike down the camp, through the quickly changing scenery that passes from barren rock to become a verdant river valley flushed with powder blue lupins. It’s a dramatic contrast between the hike up and the scenery as you come down. 

When you arrive, finally, at Wayracmachay, your first camp on the trek, your camp fairies (aka the porters, chef and sous chef) will have been busy preparing the camp. Our tents had been filled with our mats and sleeping bags, plus the welcome addition of fluffy alpaca blankets and, when it was finally time for bed, some extremely welcome hot water bottles. You’ll find flushing toilets, but no showers, here, too. 

Dinner will be another feast of hearty, filling Peruvian food that’ll put you to sleep early, ready for another pre-dawn start.

Day Two: Wayracmachay – Colpapampa – Loreta 

• Total elevation gain: 200 metres (656 feet)
• Total elevation loss: 1,600 metres (5,249 feet)
• Time on the trail: Around seven hours, plus lunch and breaks 

Today, you’ll rise before dawn again, ready for a big breakfast of pancakes, omelette, bread and the obligatory coca tea to help you start the day. 

While day two of the Salkantay trek is as long as day one, the vast majority of the trail is downhill, so you’ll find it much less taxing. 

From Wayracmachay, it’s a gentle downhill hike along a gravel path. As a group, we had decided that downhill sounded too boring for the day (!) so Isao and Juan Carlos took us off-piste to climb another hill (just a 100 metres of ascent this time).

By this stage, the scenery had changed dramatically, and we’d dropped far enough down to find ourselves in thick, lush cloud forest, filled with butterflies and bromeliads suspended from the trees. 

If your guides offer you this detour, I strongly suggest taking it. The payoff for climbing this extra hill is some seriously incredible views back across the valley towards Salkantay and then down into the next valley, where lunch and your accommodation for the night are located.

The views change by the second; the clouds move rapidly as the valley and the mountains beyond appear and disappear in turn. 

From this incredible vantage point, it’s a steep downhill – through cloud forest thick with orchids and hummingbirds to finally hit the road beneath and lunch at Colpapampa. For us, it was mango ceviche followed by mountains of lomo saltado , vegetables, salads and rice.

The final few hours to reach your accommodation are along a flat gravel road that follows the Rio Salkantay as it weaves through the valley.

Finally, you’ll descend down an incredibly steep path to reach your home for the night: Alpaca Expeditions’ very own hobbit holes, complete with lime green, round front doors and comfy beds. There are even hot showers available and, the pièce de résistance : jacuzzis. 

We saluted a long but incredible day with some cervezas (beers) and even a small pisco sour prepared unexpectedly for us by our chef, Sergio. It’s fair to say we slept like babies – you will too. 

Day Three: Loreta – Lucmabamba – Llactapata

• Distance hiked: 14 kilometres (8.7 miles)
• Total elevation gain: 600 metres (1,968 feet)
• Total elevation loss: 400 metres (1,312 feet)
• Time on the trail: Around five and a half hours, plus lunch and breaks 

Day three starts with a gentle walk through a clutch of villages tucked into the cloud forest, where you’ll meet the resident dogs, chickens and any other livestock that’s wandering around.

Today will be a fairly relaxed day and give you the opportunity to hike a stretch of the Inca trail that clambers up through lush forest and coffee plantations and, for some parts, still consists of worn stone steps. 

As you climb this five-hundred-year-old stone staircase into the mountains, you’ll realise quite how relieved you are that you didn’t do the Inca trail. It’s tough going on your thighs (perhaps even more so than the climb up to the Salkantay Pass), but a fairly gentle incline up to lunch at a coffee farm, where you’ll also have the chance to pick, toast and grind your own steaming cup of Joe alongside the owner, Paulina.

Support sustainable tourism, porters’ rights and female empowerment by booking the Salkantay trek with Alpaca Expeditions and get a 5% discount on the cost of the hike by using discount code WorldlyAdventurer!

Your chef will also give a demonstration about cooking a traditional Peruvian dish (in our case lomo saltado , with fake meat for the vegetarians), before you dine again like kings, with incredible views across the valley. 

In the afternoon, it’s a tough, sweaty climb up, up and up, although you’ll take plenty of breaks and have the chance to enjoy the pretty flowers and picturesque valley views that characterise this part of the hike.

After around three and a half hours of walking, you’ll finally reach the brow of the hill, from where it’s a short hike down to Llactapata.

An Inca site, it sits across the valley from Machu Picchu – the Inca liked to be able to see this city from other parts of their Empire – which you can see in the distance. It’s here that you’ll suddenly realise just how far you’ve come and how close you are to the end of the hike. 

After half an hour learning a little about this site, which would have acted as a waystation for the chaskis (the messengers of the Inca, who ran along the Inca roads delivering messages across the Empire), it’s a 20-minute hike down the mountain to reach perhaps the most surreal of you campsites.

Offering even closer views of Machu Picchu from its lofty position, the campground below Llactapata is the most remarkable of the whole trip. It’s possible to spend hours here, watching as the sun slips away past the mountains in the west and bathes the Cordillera de Vilcabamba in which Machu Picchu lies in gentle evening light. 

If you can tear yourself away from the view, you’ll be delighted to learn that after a sweaty day’s hike there are hot showers at this campsite (costing around S/10), and mountains of food to help you sleep soundly. 

Because you’re still far away from any towns, there’s very little light pollution, so if the skies are clear, you can expect a sensational view of the Milky Way and the night’s sky. 

Day Four: Llactapata – Hidroeléctrica  – Aguas Calientes

• Distance covered: 15 kilometres (9.3 miles)
• Total elevation gain: 180 metres (590 feet)
• Total elevation loss: 880 metres (2,887 feet)

You’ll wake early again today in time to eat breakfast as the sun’s rays climb above Machu Picchu and bathe you in their glorious light.

There will be time to enjoy the views while your team packs up camp and you should be on the trail by about 7 am, for a snaking, tough-on-the-knees, steep climb down the mountain and along the Río Ahobamba to reach Hidraelectrica, the hydropower station that produces electricity for Aguas Calientes and Machu Picchu itself. 

Here you stop for a final leisurely lunch with your porters and cooking team, before it’s time to bid them farewell and continue along the side of the railway line that connects Hidroeléctrica with Aguas Calientes and beyond, Ollantaytambo. 

While the hike itself is hot and sweaty and feels like you’re starring in the film Stand By Me (yes, you do need to keep an eye out for trains as it’s a functioning railway line – although they do tend to make an awful lot of noise on the approach to allow you to get out of the way), it takes you through the deep mountain canyon that is the Urubamba Valley, with the dramatic steep valley sides rising high above you. 

Along the way, you’ll find the occasional shops operated by those who live in houses dotted along the railway line, where you can pick up snacks of fresh watermelon or ice-cold drinks. 

It’s around 10 kilometres (six miles) along the railway line and a three-hour hike. Finally, you’ll reach the edges of Aguas Calientes, the small but picturesque town that sits beneath the Inca city.

Here, you’ll be checked into your hotel and have some downtime to explore the town or just take a long, hot shower, before heading out for dinner with your group. 

Day Five: Machu Picchu

• Distance hiked: Depends; the path around Machu Picchu is a couple of miles 
• Total elevation gain: Roughly 10-20 metres (32-65 feet)
• Total elevation loss: Roughly 10-20 metres (32-65 feet)
• Time on the trail: Depends; around three hours if just exploring the site. Add a further two hours if hiking to Huyana Picchu. 

Today’s the day you’ve been waiting for: Machu Picchu. To get on the first bus up to Machu Picchu, you’ll wake around 4.30 am and aim to be at the bus stop by 5.30 am, read when it leaves.

It’s a 30-minute drive up to the entrance and definitely worth taking the bus (the tickets are included in the cost of your tour): the walk looked exhausting and takes at least two hours. 

At the top, your guide will show your tickets and you’ll climb the final few steps of Inca stone up into Machu Picchu, a former summer retreat for the Inca emperor and a remarkable example of Inca architecture.

At the viewpoint at the top of the site, if the weather’s clear, you can watch as the sun rises over the mountains, showering the stone buildings and Huayna Picchu, the mountain that sits behind, with morning light.

If it’s not clear, don’t worry: when we arrived, it was cloudy, but the weather came and went quickly, giving us good opportunities for capturing photographs and absorbing the surreal feeling of standing above Machu Picchu. 

In total, you will have around three or four hours in Machu Picchu, which will involve a guided tour by your guide to learn more about life in Machu Picchu, the architecture and the key buildings dotted around.

Since the pandemic, they’ve introduced a very strict route around the site, so you don’t have as much opportunity to explore as you once had. However, it definitely felt like plenty of time for visiting and learning more about the Inca Empire. 

If you want to hike up Huayna Picchu, this will take around two hours and you can expect an alternative view of the site from the top. As my tour was booked quite last-minute, I didn’t manage to get these tickets (it’s recommended to buy them at least a couple of months in advance as they sell out; book them here selecting “Circuito 4 + Waynapicchu”), but other members of my group highly recommended it. The path up is very steep, so definitely not for the faint of heart. 

Around noon, you’ll catch the bus back down to Aguas Calientes for a final lunch. This wasn’t included in our tour, but there are plenty of restaurants within the town. I recommend Chullos Craft Beer & Homemade Food for great local food and beautiful views of the river. 

Early afternoon, you’ll board the train to Ollantaytambo, a stunning, two-hour journey that takes you along the Urubamba Valley and, thanks to the train’s large windows, gives you dazzling views of the surroundings. 

At the station in Ollantaytambo, a bus will be waiting to take you back to Cusco, a final two-hour journey through the mountains. Be sure to have your accommodation booked ready for you when you in the town. You’ll be exhausted but still reeling from an incredible six days!

Preparing for the Salkantay trek

When to travel to cusco and machu picchu.

Unlike the Inca trail, which needs to be booked at least six months in advance, the Salkantay is a trek that can be organised with a lot less advance notice. This is because permits are not required to hike along this trail; instead, you’ll just need to make sure you’ve got a ticket for Machu Picchu.

That said, if you’re planning on visiting between the peak months of May and September, you’ll likely need to reserve this trek at least a few weeks in advance to ensure that there’s time for the company to book Machu Picchu tickets for your dates. 

It’s possible to hike the Salkantay trek all year round, but for the best conditions (and to get those iconic views at Machu Picchu on the final day), try to avoid the rainy season, which is between November and February. 

Alpaca Expeditions do run this trek from the start of March through the middle of January, but as someone who has lived in Cusco and knows how hard it can rain here, I imagine trekking during the rainy months would be a very soggy experience. 

Choosing a sustainable and ethical tour company

One of the main reasons I chose to hike with Alpaca Expeditions is because of their attitude towards their staff. They pay some of the highest wages for porters and guides; the minimum wage for porters by law is S/44 per day, while Alpaca pays them S/180 per day.

As many of their staff come from indigenous and often poor Andean villages scattered across the region, Alpaca Expeditions have also built a house in Ollantaytambo where their staff can stay the night before or after a trek, with its own resident doctor offering them healthcare. 

What’s more, due to limits on entering Machu Picchu, porters who accompany groups of hikers aren’t allowed to enter the site, and many can’t afford the expense of visiting Machu Picchu on their own dime. This means many have spent years hiking to Machu Picchu but have never actually gone in.

To address this injustice, Alpaca Expeditions take groups of their porters, chefs, guides and their families to Machu Picchu twice a year, ensuring that all of their staff can experience the culture of their ancestors and learn about their own history. 

Alpaca Expeditions are also leading the way when it comes to female employment. They were the first tour company to introduce female guides (2017) and then porters (2018) onto the Inca trail and now have women working in every role on the trek and in their office, with an aim to employ an equal number of men and women in the future. 

They’re also doing some amazing work to allow local communities to visit sites such as Machu Picchu, as well as the archaeological sites of Pisac, Ollantaytambo and others in the Sacred Valley .

To achieve this, every Sunday they pay to take a group of 15-17 local children from Cusco or surrounding villages to visit some of these sites and learn more about their heritage, ensuring that they have the same access to their history as the thousands of tourists who explore the region each day.

I followed along for one of these days and it was wonderful to see the kids soaking everything in and even getting to experience the incredible Alpaca Expeditions outdoors lunch, too!

All in all, I found the experience on the trail with Alpaca Expeditions to be even better than I had expected. Their staff are absolute heroes: our guides were good-humoured and extremely supportive when the going got tough on the first day and the rest of our team of chefs and porters ensured that every single meal and camp felt like we’d stepped into our own private resort, no matter how remote the location. 

The cost of hiking the Salkantay trek

The cost of the trek varies depending on the company with whom you go. Alpaca Expeditions isn’t the cheapest and nor is it the most expensive. They offer the five-day/five-night tour that I did at a cost of just $650 USD per person and you can potentially have a group size of up to 16 people. We had nine in ours and it felt like a really comfortable size.

They also commit to running a hike even if they just have two people signed up, which means you’re less likely to get your tour cancelled if they don’t manage to sell other tickets. 

To secure your place on the trek, you will need to make a deposit of $400 USD per person either through PayPal (who’ll charge a 5.5% PayPal fee) or by wire to Bank of America or Citibank (free if you bank with either of these companies). Therefore, it’s worth being aware that the trek may well cost a little more when you’ve factored in the transfer cost. 

Alcohol isn’t included in the cost of the hike but there are places en route where you can buy beers, ranging from a cheap S/5 to a more eye-watering S/20. If you think you’ll want a cold cerveza to celebrate a long day’s hiking, then bring extra soles (small notes preferably as change can be an issue) with you.

Tipping on the Salkantay trek

Before departing for the trek, it’s important to budget into your trip the cost of tipping. While it’s certainly not obligatory, tipping was brought up quite a few times during the hike and our guide made recommendations for the amount of money we should consider tipping per person.

This worked out around S/50 soles per porter (we had four for a group of nine people), $20 USD for both the chef and sous chef, and $40 USD each for our guides. 

It’s worth bearing in mind that there’s often a limit of around S/750 soles (around $200 USD) per day that you can withdraw from ATMs in Cusco, so it might be sensible to bring dollars with you for tipping purposes if you also need to withdraw cash to pay for your tour when you arrive.

Another area to consider when it comes to hiking costs is whether your travel insurance covers hiking up to 4,600 metres.

My travel insurance with World Nomads * required me to pay for additional coverage up to their level three (camping up to 4,500 metres and hiking up to 6,000 metres), which cost an additional $75.33 for my two-week trip to Peru. 

Packing for the Salkantay trek 

If you book before you arrive in Cusco, you should get sent a packing list covering what they recommend you bring. In short, it includes:

• Your passport. You will need to show the original document to get into Machu Picchu. Don’t forget it, otherwise the hiking will have been in vain!
• A day pack. I brought my Osprey 40-litre pack ( REI | Amazon | Osprey ), which comfortably fitted my camera, down jacket, waterproof coat and a couple of other bits and pieces for the day. You could comfortably get away with carrying a 25-litre or 30-litre pack, as the majority of your belongings go into your duffel bag that’s carried by mule. 
• A cosy sleeping bag. You can actually hire one of these for $25 USD for the duration of the trek, so unless you’re particularly attached to your own, then it’s probably easier to just pay this cost. I found the one I rented to be warm and comfortable. I generally recommend the Nemo Disco 15 for women ( REI ) and men ( REI ) if you want to buy one.
• Air mattress. Again, this can be rented for $25 USD. If you want to buy your own, I recommend this one from Therm-a-Rest ( REI | Amazon | Backcountry )
• Trekking poles. I made the mistake of turning these down when I was offered to rent them. Don’t be like me. They’re really helpful for the first day in getting you up the Salkantay Pass and absolutely ESSENTIAL in helping you get back down. Rent them for $25 USD or buy these lightweight ones ( REI | Amazon | Backcountry ). 
• Well-broken-in hiking boots. I can’t stress enough how important it is that you wear hiking shoes that you’ve used before on this trek. Days are long and there’s absolutely nothing worse than getting a bad blister on the first day. All of the downhill can also wreak havoc with your toenails, so they need to be comfortable. I’m a convert of Salomon (women’s: REI | Amazon | Backcountry ; men’s: REI | Amazon | Backcountry )
• Five pairs of walking socks. Seriously, you need a clean pair for each day. I recommend Darn Tough socks (women’s: REI | Amazon | Darn Tough ; men’s: REI | Amazon | Darn Tough )
• Sandals. These are for the evenings when you’ll want to allow your feet to breathe. I love my Teva sandals (women’s: REI | Amazon | Backcountry ; men’s: REI | Amazon | Backcountry )
• Warm clothing. A down jacket (I wear this one from Jack Wolfskin; you can find plenty of others at REI ) and a lightweight waterproof coat (mine is this one from Patagonia ; for men from Patagonia | REI | Backcountry ) are essentials for this trek. I also had a midweight walking jumper and a fleece jumper (women’s: REI | Amazon | Backcountry ; men’s: REI | Amazon | Backcountry ). 
• Two or three pairs of hiking trousers. You want lightweight trousers that won’t be too hot for the warmer days. I like these ones from prAna ( REI | Amazon | Backcountry )
• Long-sleeved hiking tops. I didn’t bring any of these and it was a mistake. Not only do they protect you from the sun (which is fierce at this altitude) but they can protect you from the mosquitos, too. We only really encountered these a little bit in the evening at Loreta (day three) and during the hike through the cloud forest on day four. 
• Headlamp. This is essential for the camps, as many of them don’t have electricity. You don’t want to trip over and injure yourself when going to the bathroom in the middle of the night. I recommend this one .
• Camera. This hike is incredibly photogenic, so make sure you’ve got a couple of spare batteries for your camera. I travel with the Sony A7iii , an 18-135 lens and a spare battery. 
• Phone charger and adapter plug. There is electricity on days zero, three and five. I use this universal adapter plug .
• A sunhat and sunglasses. Don’t burn your head or hurt your eyes. 
• Mosquito repellent. You will want this for evenings on days three onwards and at Machu Picchu. I use Sawyer insect repellent ( REI | Amazon )
• Dry sacks. While Alpaca did give us plastic bags that we could put our clothes into to protect them from the rain in transit, I prefer to travel with a couple of dry sacks ( REI | Amazon ), as they’re reusable and more environmentally friendly!

Other options for hiking to Machu Picchu

Still not sure which is the right hike for you? Here’s a round-up of the other treks that can get you to Machu Picchu. 

The Inca trail

• Length: 48 kilometres (29.8 miles) 
• Hiking time: Four days/three nights
• Cost: From $695 USD

The best-known trek of all, the classic Inca trail is a four-day, three-night trek up and down the stone pathway of the Inca, stopping at a handful of other Inca sites before arriving at Machu Picchu at dawn on the fourth and final day through the Sun Gate.

This is the only trek that allows you to approach the site through this entrance and have the first dawn views of Machu Picchu.

Read all about the Inca trail to Machu Picchu for more information about this trek. 

It’s also possible to extend this trip to five days/four nights to allow you to take a slower approach to the hike (perfect if you’re travelling with your kids), or do a shortened version of the Inca trail if you’ve got less time but still want to hike this fabled road.

You can even combine a bit of Salkantay with the Inca trail for a seven-day/six-night adventure . 

The Inca Jungle trek

• Length: 89 kilometres (55.30 miles) 
• Cost: From $450 USD

Keen to visit Machu Picchu but want to get your adrenaline pumping even more? The Inca Jungle trek is a route that combines mountain biking, rafting, hiking along sections of the Inca trail, and even ziplining.

It’s not a trip organised by Alpaca Expeditions but there are other companies based out of Cusco who do. 

The Lares trek

• Length: 33 kilometres (20.5 miles) 
• Cost: From $600 USD

Perhaps the least-known of the three main treks to Machu Picchu, the Lares is another alternative route that takes you through Andean villages around the Sacred Valley, where you’ll soak in natural hot springs and climb up into the mountains to a 4,680-metre (15,354-foot) pass.

Considered a little easier, slower-paced and much shorter than the Salkantay and the Inca trail, it’s a good option for families, as well as those who aren’t sure about their fitness levels! Alpaca Expeditions have a four-day/three-night itinerary . 

The Choquequirao trek 

• Length: 100 kilometres (62 miles) 
• Hiking time: Nine days/eight nights
• Cost: From $1,250 USD

For the really adventurous, the trek to Machu Picchu via Choquequirao is a truly once-in-a-lifetime experience. Taking you first to the archeological site of Choquequirao, a mountaintop series of Inca buildings that is only visited by a handful of tourists and where you can camp just beneath, you then continue to Machu Picchu, combining two of the region’s finest Inca cities. 

The hike has plenty of uphill to reach Choquequirao and is a long slog: 100 kilometres (62 miles) in total.

We’ve got information about hiking it independently in this guide to hiking to Choquequirao , while Alpaca Expeditions offer a shortened six days/five nights version of the trek .

I was a guest of Alpaca Expeditions  on this tour, but the experiences, opinions and unfettered enjoyment of the trip are my very own. I don’t promote tours or experiences that I don’t believe to be 100% sustainable, ethical or high-quality.  

* World Nomads provides travel insurance for travelers in over 100 countries. As an affiliate, we receive a fee when you get a quote from World Nomads using this link. We do not represent World Nomads. This is information only and not a recommendation to buy travel insurance.

Wednesday 4th of October 2023

Thanks for the article Steph! I would like to give a tip to your readers. If you buy the 5-day Salkantay trek online you pay anywhere between $500 - $700. On the other hand, if you simply walk in to the many tour agencies around Cuzco's Central Plaza (Plaza de Armas), you can get the same trek for between $250 - $300. Everything included. I walked into a few agencies and they were all around the same price. Seriously. I'm not trying to be an A-hole, just trying to save your readers some money. And you don't even need to wait for a spot. I walked into the tour agency and I was on the trail two days later. So my advice is...don't buy it online. Wait until you get to Cuzco and buy it in the agency. Just saying :)

Steph Dyson

Thursday 23rd of November 2023

Hi Gabriel, yes that definitely is an option. However, there's no guarantee the quality of the company you're travelling with and there are some pretty rubbish companies in Cusco who go for low prices and high tourist numbers without any consideration towards quality. Steph

Taylor Nelson

Saturday 3rd of June 2023

Great article Steph! Stoked we were part of your group and you captured the experience magnificently. Arriba, abajo, al centro, sexy movimiento, ADENTRO!

Monday 5th of June 2023

Thanks so much Taylor! I think I captured a lot of photos of the pair of you in the distance as you marched on at incredible speed😉It was great to share the experience with you! Steph

Seamless Connectivity In Argentina: Exploring Esim Cards And Beyond For Travelers

By Mony Apr 2,2024

Geneva To the Alps: A Journey Through Culinary Delights and Alpine Wonders

By Suman Apr 2,2024

How Far is Austin from Houston? And Why You Should Visit Both

By sagnika Mar 30,2024

The Best Museums In Austin For Every Interest And Age Group

Family Tours To Israel: Explore The Rich History And Culture Of The Holy Land

By Mony Mar 29,2024

From Cocktails To Kickflips: Must-Try Activities In San Diego

By Ankita Mar 29,2024

Smart Travel Solutions: Surprising Car Accessories To Enhance Your Journey

Romance in the Big Easy: 20 Things to Do in New Orleans for Couples

The Top 10 Museums in New Orleans You Can’t Miss!

By Ankita Mar 28,2024

Sorry, but nothing matched your search " ". Please try again with some different keywords.

Trekking Kilimanjaro & Salkantay

Ariana smith.

Jan 12, 2021

Trekking across mountains and rolling hills is always a pleasureful practice, but there are certain trips that will always stand out. The Kilimanjaro climb is often considered one of the best in the world, and an excellent means through which to experience Africa . But other, slightly lesser-known treks, such as the Salkantay Trek are special and challenging in their own right.

The Kilimanjaro climb is an infamous one for its challenge. It’s a five-day climb at minimum for the average backpacker, with most people making it to the peak in an average of six days. The African searing heat and the mountain’s vegetation are often what cause this reduced pace – and what separates a mountain like Kilimanjaro from a climb in the Tatras.

Kilimanjaro: What you need to know

Kilimanjaro is the highest peak in all of Africa, and a rather hefty trek for any experienced traveler. It peaks at 5,895 meters (19,340 ft) and has attracted all sorts of visitors over the years. It’s worthy to note that whilst not the most dangerous climb, it would still do one well to be careful whilst making the trek, as an average of ten deaths are reported on the mountain every year. Altitude sickness tends to be the main risk factor – making the climb is more so recommended for the experienced mountaineers.

Not to say that it isn’t entirely friendly for beginners too. But it’s important to remember that the mountain never be underestimated by any means. The Kilimanjaro climb is attractive for its beauty and its relative difficulty – and both are exactly what you ought to expect during the long trek.

The Marangu and Lemosho Routes to Kilimanjaro

There are various routes to choose from, with various guides to book along the way. The Marangu route is a particularly popular one when it comes to the Kilimanjaro climb, after taking around seven days to traverse. It’s one of the shorter ways of course, alongside such routes as the Rongai route and Machame route, both of which usually take an average of eight days to travel.

There are some longer routes, for the travelers interested in enjoying the climb and putting some focus on admiring the gorgeous surroundings. Examples of this would be the Lemosho route, averaging at about 10 days of travel. All the routes up the isolated Mount Kilimanjaro have their own variations in terms of length and difficulty, but regardless of this, whichever route fits you best – only you can determine. You will have to fly to Kilimanjaro airport, which is quite close to Moshi, the starting point of the Kilimanjaro climbs. When you get delayed you will be able to get compensation through Aviclaim .

The Salkantay Trek and why it is Everyone’s Favourite?

The Salkantay Trek is an equally friendly and famous trek, found in the breathtaking mountainous region in Cusco, Peru. The city of Cusco is famed mostly for its elevation, located at an altitude of 3,399 meters – and renowned as the historic capital of the Inca Empire until the 16 th century. The entire city is a world heritage site, and home to one of the finest treks the world has to offer.

The Salkantay Trek is of course a means through which to reach the esteemed Machu Picchu, and it serves as an excellent alternative to the well-traveled Inca Trail. It serves to know that the majority of treks in Peru, including the Salkantay Trek, are a bit more difficult than your average mountain routes. Traveling here comes with a heavy recommendation of good health and some minor experience at the very least.

The Salkantay Trek is much longer, and much more difficult than the Inca Trail thanks in large part to the general height and length. It’s known to be twice as long as the Inca Trail, meaning that you’ll find yourself walking around and pausing for rest breaks on more frequent occasions. As well as this, the Salkantay Trek goes much higher in altitude, making the nights all the colder and the risk of altitude sickness all the greater. Remember – altitude sickness was the very same threat that led to the deaths of people on Kilimanjaro, and that risk remains here if you’re not careful and don’t respect the dangers of the mountain.

The Scenic Beauty on the Salkantay Trek

Don’t let these facts convince you that this is anything but an easy-moderate path, which can be navigated without a guide if you know what you’re doing. Not to mention that the views, both at the peak and along the journey to it, are some of the finest you’ll ever have the pleasures of seeing. It’s these factors that lead to the great popularity of the Salkantay Trek, which has become almost as well known as the Kilimanjaro climb throughout the years.

The Salkantay Trek has been wonderfully preserved by the Peruvian people, and to this day serves as one of the country’s finer means to access natural beauty and breathtaking sights. The best time to go by the Salkantay Trek is typically between March and October time. Of course, this is bound to be the busiest season, but that fact has its reasons – it just so happens to be the country’s dry season.

How to Prepare for the Trek according to Experts

Weather on the mountain will range from daringly hot, demanding wide-brimmed hats and sunscreen, to horribly cold. It’s also worthy of note that the mountain is known to have a disturbing quantity of mosquitoes flying around, and as such, long-sleeves and closed-toe shoes are more than recommended. I’d go so far as to say they’re necessary! But you’ll mostly come across these at Santa Teresa and Aguas Calientes, so it’s not a disaster if all you bring is mosquito repellent.

Whether you take the Salkantay Trek up Machu Picchu or try your hands at the Kilimanjaro climb, you’ll find yourself having undergone a journey unlike any other. The fauna and flora on the way to the peaks are unforgettable, and will always add to the joy of the experiences. If ever, on the way up, you find yourself feeling tired, don’t forget to use that as an opportunity to remember where you are, and give a moment of wonder to the surrounding landscapes. It may be the last time you see them – or only the first of many.

• The Best Tips To Travel Around The World
• Travel Tips To Help You Out In Asia

Share this:

• Click to share on Twitter (Opens in new window)
• Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window)
• Kilimanjaro
• Adventure Flagstaff

Share on Social Media

Ariana Smith is a blogger who loves to write about anything that is related to technology, She also has interest in entrepreneurship & Digital marketing world including social media & advertising.

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Notify me of follow-up comments by email.

Notify me of new posts by email.

POST A COMMENT

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

latest 

• Travel Guides
• Travel Blog
• Destinations

Top 10 Most Popular Paraguay Food That You Must Try

By Sarmind Sep 21,2021

Top 13 Famous Wonders Of India That You Must Visit! [Updated 2023]

By Ankita Jul 26,2022

10 Useful Malayalam Words To Learn Before Traveling To Kerala

By Ariana Oct 11,2021

5 European Destinations Negatively Impacted By ‘Over-Tourism

By Ariana Sep 14,2017

Discovering the Wild: Best African Safari Tours for an Unforgettable Adventure

BY  Ankita Tripathy Feb 13, 2024

If you've ever dreamt of witnessing the breathtaking beauty of Africa's untamed wilderness up close, then embarking on one of the best African safari tours is an absolute must. From the iconic savannahs of the Serengeti to the lush forests of Rwanda, Africa offers an array of safari experiences that promise adventure, discovery, and a profound connection with nature. In this guide, we'll explore some of the top African safari tours, focusing on Tanzania, a country renowned for its spectacular wildlife and pristine landscapes. Safari ventures are one of the coolest activities that you can do and share the experience with your loved ones, be it your family, friends and loved ones. It is a thrill and excitement rolled into one! A lot of these safari tours have been created based on the preferences of the visitors. The extraordinary experience created through these safari experiences brings together an amazing journey where you get to learn a lot! visitors become more aware of the adventure along with the living beings, animals, birds and plants.  The visitors learn a lot about how to give the animals a safe environment along with the global need to save them. The experience is about learning the extinction rate and the way it will benefit the overall landscape of living beings sustaining the changing environment and climate! Let’s delve into the beauty of Africa! The Magic of Tanzanian Safaris Located in East Africa, Tanzania is a safari enthusiast's paradise. Home to some of the most iconic national parks and wildlife reserves on the continent, Tanzania offers an unparalleled safari experience that draws travelers from around the globe. Whether you're seeking the thrill of witnessing the Great Migration or hoping to encounter the Big Five in their natural habitat, Tanzania has something to offer every type of safari adventurer. The national park is well known for its untamed beauty especially because it is situated at the heart of Africa giving visitors a journey of a lifetime. The biodiversity of Tanzania is unmatched and the reason why it is the most popular is because of the authentic safari experience! with no boundary fences, the wildlife experience is wild! Serengeti National Park No list of the best African safari tours would be complete without mentioning the Serengeti National Park. Renowned for its vast plains, abundant wildlife, and dramatic annual migration of wildebeest and zebra, the Serengeti is a bucket-list destination for safari enthusiasts. Visitors to this iconic park can expect to witness incredible scenes of predators on the hunt, herds of elephants grazing peacefully, and stunning sunsets painting the sky in hues of orange and pink. With a collection of about 4000 lions, 550 cheetahs, 1000 leopards and 500 varieties of bird species inhabit this area creating a massive grassy southern plain with unbound beauty. Visitors can also experience raw beauty as there is Grumeti River infested with crocodiles in the west. Another unique element is the black eagle which visitors can check out on this safari! with the Black rhinos, the national park has so much to offer for visitors who have chosen this safari to experience the wildlife! Ngorongoro Crater Conservation Area Another must-visit destination for safari-goers in Tanzania is the Ngorongoro Crater Conservation Area. Formed from the collapsed caldera of an ancient volcano, the Ngorongoro Crater is a natural amphitheater teeming with wildlife. Here, visitors can embark on game drives in search of lions, rhinos, buffalo, and more, all against the backdrop of the crater's dramatic landscape.Why is the crater so in demand? located in the Northern side of Tanzania, there is the big 5 game as it is a home of leopard, elephant, buffalo, lion and rhino! Not just that, there is annual migration of zebras and huge herds of wildebeests who traverse across the national park. If you visit the location, you will also see the livestocks of the semi-nomadic Maasai tribe grazing alongside the wild animals. Furthermore, in the Olduvai Gorge, Hominin fossils have been found which dates back hundreds and millions of years back! Tarangire National Park For those seeking a more off-the-beaten-path safari experience, Tarangire National Park offers a unique opportunity to explore Tanzania's lesser-known wilderness areas. Famous for its large population of elephants and majestic baobab trees, Tarangire is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts. Visitors can enjoy game drives, guided walks, and birdwatching excursions, all while surrounded by the park's stunning scenery. With 1100 square miles, the towering baobab trees give a lush feeling to the place. The national park features a huge number of birds along with a significant number of games because there is only one source of water, the Tarangire river. The park is decorated beautifully, attracting a large number of tourists annually! Choosing the Best African Safari for You With so many incredible safari options to choose from, selecting the best African safari tour for your preferences and interests can seem like a daunting task. However, by considering factors such as wildlife viewing opportunities, accommodation options, and budget constraints, you can narrow down your choices and find the perfect safari experience for you. There are certain things that you need to keep in mind before you choose the best African safari for you. Alongside the breathtaking landscapes, you have to remember your choices or preferences such as luxury, basic needs or requirements. Captivating sunsets count in too if you consider the breathtaking landscapes which intrigues visitors across the world. Read about the aspects that are necessary to consider to bring changes in your outlook to have an amazing and memorable African safari experience. Wildlife Viewing Opportunities One of the primary attractions of an African safari is the chance to encounter the continent's diverse wildlife up close. When choosing a safari tour, consider which animals you most want to see and research the best times and locations for viewing them. Whether you're hoping to spot lions prowling the savannah or witness a herd of elephants crossing a river, each safari destination offers its own unique wildlife experiences. Accommodation Options From luxury lodges to tented camps, African safari tours offer a range of accommodation options to suit every traveler's preference and budget. Whether you prefer the comfort of a boutique safari lodge or the rustic charm of a traditional tented camp, there are accommodations to fit every style of travel. Consider factors such as location, amenities, and price when choosing where to stay during your safari adventure. Connect With A Safari Specialist Your preferences and needs will be considered by the safari specialist concerning luxury, activity, relaxation or excitement! To have an ultimate experience in life, you have to know someone who has the local knowledge for understanding the excursion and inclusion. Budget Constraints While an African safari is undoubtedly a once-in-a-lifetime experience, it's essential to consider your budget when planning your trip. Safari tours vary widely in price, depending on factors such as the length of the tour, the level of accommodation, and the included activities. By setting a budget and researching tour options within your price range, you can ensure that you find a safari tour that offers excellent value for money without breaking the bank. Conclusion Embarking on one of the best African safari tours is an experience that will stay with you for a lifetime. Whether you choose to explore the iconic landscapes of the Serengeti, witness the wonders of the Ngorongoro Crater, or discover the hidden gems of Tarangire National Park, Tanzania offers a safari adventure like no other. With its rich diversity of wildlife, stunning natural beauty, and warm hospitality, Tanzania is the perfect destination for an unforgettable safari experience. So, pack your bags, grab your camera, and get ready to discover the wild wonders of Africa on an unforgettable safari adventure in Tanzania. Read Also: Sands Of Splendor: Luxurious Desert Safari Experiences In Dubai 20 Of The Best Places To Travel In Africa In 2024 6 Best Destinations For A Safari In Kenya

Read More Details

Planning A Hunting Trip To Africa – Here’s what you should Know

BY  Mashum Mollah Jul 19, 2017

Africa is one of the most popular hunting trip attraction centers all over the world. The region has stunning scenery and incredible wildlife. As a result, most people from across the globe are drawn to Africa naturally. It is one of the best destinations for anyone who wants to explore the world.   Some people go to observe the animals in their natural habitat. On the other hand, others go to experience the thrill of hunting some of the world’s most fascinating creatures. You can achieve these two dreams by choosing to visit Africa.   Most of the people who love hunting have a dream of visiting Africa at some point in their life. Taking a hunting safari through this part of the world can test their skills and also challenge their courage. The experience also provides you with an opportunity to experience a different culture.  Great Hunting Opportunities in Africa   If you ask multiple people what time of year you should visit Africa for hunting, you will probably get varying answers. The reason is that Africa has a lot to offer al; year around.   No matter when you decide to visit, there is a high likelihood that you will be able to find the types of animals that you wish to hunt. The region has excellent hunting opportunities for both the locals and the visitors at large.   Read also: Discovering The 11 Most Beautiful Places of Adventure in the World  The Best Hunting Season   However, it still is beneficial to plan your trip during the time of year when hunting is at its peak. Most experts recommend scheduling your safari between early spring and late summer.   It is the dry season in Africa and a perfect time to go hunting. As a result, animals are more likely to come out of hiding and to congregate around water. It makes them much easier to find, and hence you will actualize your dreams.   Another benefit of traveling during the summer is that you can avoid the vast majority of tourists. Most people plan their African safaris during the colder months. From a hunting standpoint, however, summer is one of the best times to visit this destination.   The harsh conditions and lack of vegetation make it much easier to find animals. The reason is that they are more likely to find their way out into the open rather than staying hidden. It is good to visit Africa when animals are out of their hideout if you are planning to go hunting.   Another advantage of going during this time of the year is that you can miss out on the rainy season. Instead of having to worry about having heavy rain ruin your adventure, you can enjoy beautiful, bright days.   Additionally, because these months are less popular with tourists, there is a low possibility that the animals will be hiding out of fear. So, you can practice your best coyote calls and be sure you will be able to benefit and see some.  Despite the hot daytime temperatures during this part of the year, the nights can be quite cold. Be sure to bring along warm clothing so that you don’t wind up feeling chilled.   Often, the best hunting occurs right at dawn or at dusk. Pack appropriate clothing so that you can stay comfortable no matter what the weather is like outside.  The Hunting Regulations   Africa has so many countries and each of them has its own regulations about hunting. It is good to have all thin information at your fingertips so that you don’t violet any of them. You don’t want to violet even a single one of them because of lack of knowledge.   Pouching is a serious crime and you should not find yourself in that category. Do a lot of research about hunting in Africa so that you can comply during your visit. You can be sure of having a great time in Africa on you hunting tour.   Choose the Best Company   Finally, check with the company that is hosting your hunting safari to see what time of year they recommend coming. They give you insider information that allows you to choose the best time of the year for your trip.  Conclusion  With all this information, you are more than ready to go for a hunting tour in Africa. It is the best destination for anyone who loves hunting. The secret is to choose the most appropriate season when the animals are out of their hideouts. Therefore, timing is a critical element when you are planning a hunting trip to Africa. Read Also : Planning A Trip to Las Vegas, USA? Read this blog first 7 Key points Remember while Planning Your Honeymoon Trip What Can You Expect from the New Year’s in Mexico

Travelling Without a Passport

The Ultimate Guide to the Salkantay Trek (What to Bring, How to Do It, What to Expect)

As one of the new seven wonders of the world with its alluring scenery and majestic ruins, Machu Picchu has become an extremely popular destination in South America. The landmark’s overwhelming demand has made the road less travelled (the Salkantay Trek) ever more enticing compared to the busiest route: the Inca Trail.

(discover here the training for Machu Picchu )

The Salkantay Trek will take you on a journey through the flora and fauna of the Andean Jungle to the sacred Salkantay Mountain before reaching the ancient Inca citadel of Machu Picchu.

Travel to: Machu Picchu

Since it can be challenging to discover information on this lesser known route, we have gathered everything you need to know about taking the Salkantay Trek. In particular you will find the perks of choosing Salkantay over the Inca trail, tips for booking your trip and detailed trail information.

Perks of Opting for Salkantay over the Inca Trail:

What can you expect from salkantay tour.

While the Inca Trail may be the most well-known route to Machu Picchu, this does not necessarily mean it is the best trail. The Salkantay Trek has many benefits over Inca that are unrealized by most adventurers.

1. Booking Flexibility

In order to get a permit for the Inca trail, it is advised to book 6 months in advance, which certainly puts a hitch in the plans of spontaneous travelers. This is because the Inca trail only authorizes 500 hikers to enter the trail each day. Salkantay has no permit limitations, which allows for decreased booking lead time and more flexibility.

See Also: What You Need to Take and to Know About Trekking to Machu Picchu

2. Less Crowds

Despite permit limits, the renowned Inca trail can get quite crowded. This can paint the experience with frustrating shades of touristy. The Salkantay trek allows you to go off the beaten path for a more secluded adventure, which means increased space to embrace your inner Inca.

3. Mountain and Jungle Scenery

While the Inca trail offers additional ancient ruins, the Salkantay Trek will allow you to discover some of the most remarkable features of Mother Nature’s beauty. Over the course of the Salkantay Trek, you’ll dip your feet in the beautiful glacial lake of Humantay, traverse past the Salkantay Mountain (the highest peak in the Willkapampa range), descend into the lush, subtropical cloud forest, and harvest and roast your own coffee from the region’s local coffee farm. These nature-rich experiences boast a wide variety of scenery, with the best Inca ruins left as the final reward at the end.

Do you want to travel through Peru as part of a small group tour? Check our options here .

4. Bonus Excursions – Ziplining or Hot Springs

Whether you are an adventure junkie or rejuvenation fiend the Salkantay Trek has the excursion for you. On the fourth day of your journey, you can opt to go ziplining at Cola de Mono (the highest zipline in South America) or to be transported to an oasis where you can get a well-deserved soak in the hot springs of Colcamayu. These excursions are unique to the Salkantay Trek.

5. Cost Effectiveness

Because the Inca trail is in such high demand, it is easier to find a budget-friendly tour via the Salkantay route. Additionally, the money that you do spend will likely go a longer way on the Salkantay Trek.

Guide to the Salkantay Trek: How to Book the Trek

The Salkantay Trek is open all year round, but note how much rain (and mud) you are willing to handle before booking. The Peruvian Andes has two seasons: wet season and dry season.

• Dry Season : late April to mid-October
• Wet Season : mid-October to late April
• Rainiest months : December, January and February
• Peak Season : May to September
• Shoulder Season : mid-March to May; October to mid-November
• Off Season : mid-November to mid-March

The Salkantay trail will be busiest during May to September, but it will still be less crowded than the Inca trail during these times. Consider booking your trip for late April or early October to avoid both rain and trail congestion.

Travel to: Trekking in Peru

Info on Hiking Permits

Hiking permits are not required for the Salkantay Trek, however, you do need a ticket to enter Machu Picchu, the ancient Inca citadel. If you plan on hiking Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu mountain once you reach the final Inca ruin at the end of the trek, a permit for these mountains are required. The Huayna Picchu hike is the more popular trek, restricted to 400 permits per day, so be sure to book well in advance.

Tour or Solo Trek

Note that the Salkantay Trek (unlike the Inca trail) can also be done without a tour. This requires a lot of extra preparation and separate bookings for buses, trains, excursions, Machu Picchu entrance tickets and more. If extensive trip planning, trail meal preparations and negotiations with local are your forte, then the solo trek is for you.

That being said, most people opt for the tour so they can spend less time organizing the trail and more time enjoying it. Either way, choose the option that best suits your trekking style.

Booking Lead Time

It is recommended that you book your tour for the Salkantay Trek as soon as you have decided upon your dates. However, if your plans are subject to change (as is often the case), you can book this trail with many tour companies merely a few weeks in advance or even when you arrive in Cusco (not recommended).

Additional excursions and hikes require more lead time than the Salkantay Trek booking itself (such as the Huayna Picchu hike). If Machu Picchu is the focus of your visit in Peru, do not leave booking until the last minute as spots aren’t guaranteed. Regardless if you decide to book a tour or go solo, we recommend booking your trip as far in advance as possible .

Packing List

• Passport (you need it to enter Machu Picchu)
• Layers of clothes (to account for cold nights/mornings and very warm days)
• Clean outfit (for your day in Machu Picchu after a shower in Aguas Calientes)
• Bathing suit (or clothes to soak in if you opt for the hot springs excursion)

Download the Complete Machu Picchu Packing List Here

See Also: What You Need to Take and Know About Trekking to Machu Picchu

Guide to the Salkantay Trek: Trail Details

Number of days.

The Salkantay Trek is typically completed in 5 days and 4 nights . It is also possible to do it in 4 days and 3 nights if you opt out of certain sites and are willing to go at a faster pace.  

Trail Specs

Difficulty : Medium to Difficult

Maximum Altitude : 4,600m (15,090ft)

Total Distance : 74km (45.98 miles)

As you ascend from Cusco to the peak altitude, you will be moving from warm climate at low elevation to temperatures near freezing. Be prepared for changing and sometimes unpredictable weather.

Dry season temperature :

• Day : 20ºC – 25ºC (68ºF – 77ºF)
• Night : -1ºC – 7ºC (30ºF – 45ºF)

Wet season temperature :

• Day : 17ºC – 22ºC (63ºF – 72ºF)
• Night : 4ºC – 10ºC (39ºF – 50ºF)

Guide to the Salkantay Trek: Trek Overview

Your typical lares trek itinerary.

Travel to: Machu Picchu via the Salkantay Trail

The Salkantay Trek begins in Cusco. Be sure to arrive a day or two before your journey begins to acclimatize yourself with the high altitude.

Day 1 – Cusco – Mollepata – Soraypampa – Salkantaypampa

From the city of Cusco, a 3 hour drive by bus or car will take you to the town of Mollepata. From here you will either hike or take another transport to Sayllapata before trekking to Soraypampa. The first day will end at Salkantaypampa. Day 1 is the gentlest day of hiking, which allows you extra time to adjust to the altitude.

Day 2 – Salkantaypampa – Soyrococha – Abra Salkantay / El Passo – Huaracmachay – Colpapampa

Prepare yourself well for day two as it includes some of the most challenging parts of the entire Salkantay Trek. After hiking from Salkantaypampa to Soyrococha, you will encounter multiple switchbacks that increase in steepness as you climb. This zig-zag trail is called the 7 culebras (7 snakes).

The view of Salkantay from the top of the Culebras is remarkable. While ascending to reach Soyrococha, you may notice the cool, thin air due to the high altitude, be sure to pace yourself and dress appropriately. After continuing upwards, you will finally reach the peak at the Salkantay pass then begin the descent.

Here the scenery will change from the mountainous vista to the dense forest jungle as you go from the Salkantay pass down to Huaracmachay and then to Colpapampa.

Day 3 – Collpapampa- La Playa

Day 3 offers majestic waterfalls, the Ceja de Selva jungle zone, and a wide variety of plants, flowers and birds. The morning will begin with 3 hours of comfortable trekking from Collpapampa, along the Salkantay river to La Playa. La Playa is a small town offering one of the largest lodging on the trail. Depending on your tour, you may spend time on a coffee plantation where you can harvest and roast your own coffee.

Optional : Hot Springs in Colcamayu (in Santa Teresa)

This option is available on either day 3 or day 4

Day 4 – La Playa – Hidroelectrica – Aguas Calientes

Day 4 offers a number of route and activity options for getting to Aguas Calientes, with the Llactapata (Inca Ruin) being the most common. These are typically agreed upon with your tour group before departure.

Option 1 : Hot Springs in Colcamayu

Option 2 : Llactapata (Inca Ruin)

Option 3 : Zip-lining at Cola de Mono

Whichever option you choose, day 4 will end in the town of Aguas Calientes where you will get to stay in a hostel or hotel for the first time on the trip. Be sure to take advantage of the shower before your day at Machu Picchu.

Day 5 – Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu – Cusco

There are two options to get from Aguas Calientes up to Machu Picchu.

Option 1: Take the Steps

The stairs up to Machu Picchu has over 2,000 steps and can take a good 1.5 hours. If you choose this option, be sure to depart early to avoid long queues at Machu Picchu and be prepared to arrive very sweaty.  

Option 2: Take the Bus

The first bus departs around 5:30am with queues beginning at 5am during peak season. The journey takes 30 minutes and tickets cost around USD$20. This is a great option to save your time and energy for the day viewing Machu Picchu.

While in Machu Picchu, there is the option to climb Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu mountain. Recall, both treks require a permit, so be sure to book well in advance. The more popular Huayna Picchu has only two climbing times (7am and 10am). If you have a permit for this hike, plan your schedule for day 5 accordingly.

After exploring Machu Picchu, you can either walk (1.5 hours) or take a bus (0.5 hours or longer with queues) back down to Aguas Calientes. From there a combination of downward trekking and transportation will be required to return back to Cusco.

Tour group travelers will likely have train tickets booked to Ollantaytambo where you will then catch a mini-bus or car back to Cusco. Solo travelers may trek down to take the bus from Hidroelectrica Station to Cusco. This is a longer, but cheaper route than getting a train.

As the trek finishes back in Cusco on day 5, be sure to plan accommodations and a well-deserved day of rest to recover after your Salkantay journey.

"Two roads diverged in a wood and I - I took the one less travelled by, and that has made all of the difference."

- Robert Frost

Featured Image by: Marco Havnanian

Tiana is a travel enthusiast from Canada, passionate about discovering the Earth's beauty through excursions in nature. Over the past year alone, she has completed the West Coast Trail, gone spelunking in the Capital of Caves: Budapest, and went snowshoeing in the Alps (to name a few), with more adventures to come!

Related Articles

• Tips & Tricks

Best Destinations for People with Disabilities

The world and its wonders should be available to one and...

• Destination Guide

Where to See the Northern Lights in February

If you hope to see the Northern Lights in February, you’re...

• North America
• South America

Carnival Around the World

The world goes a little crazy every February when carnival season...

Frequently Asked Questions About Travelling to India, Answered by Indians

Get unlimited access to the world's best travel stories. subscribe now., privacy overview.

Savage Mountain to Machu Picchu: A complete guide to hiking the Salkantay Trek in Peru

An increasingly popular but still far less crowded alternative to the Inca Trail, the Salkantay Trek traverses high mountain passes and stunning alpine scenery to reach the incredible ruins of Machu Picchu. The trek takes its name from Salkantay Mountain, which rises an impressive 6,271m and absolutely dominates the landscape, but the Quechua translation “Savage Mountain” at times feels more fitting (particularly as you puff towards the route’s high point, 4,650m Salkantay Pass).

This stunning mountain is the highest in the region and held great spiritual significance for the ancient Incas, who believed that mountains and their resident  Apu (spirits) were the link between  Kay Pacha  (the human realm) and  Hanan Pacha  (the upper realm). Towering Salkantay remains highly revered as a one of the most sacred  Apu  even today, and it’s impossible to deny its mysticism as you journey along the trail towards Machu Picchu.  Here’s absolutely everything you need to know about hiking the Salkantay Trek, including the trekking itinerary, difficulty of the trail, how to deal with the altitude, what to pack & more.

What's in this travel guide

About the Salkantay Trek

The Salkantay Trek navigates 70km of trail from Mollepata to Aguas Calientes and is traditionally completed in 5 days. However, a number of modifications can be made to this trek thanks to nearby roads/trains, which effectively cuts out the penultimate day for a shortened 4-day trek or a challenging 3-day trek . In an attempt to conserve some energy for my independent Huayhuash Circuit hike , I opted to hike Salkantay in 4 days, driving the section between Playa Sahuayacco and Hidroelectrica, and I felt like I saw the best of the trail on the first 2 days anyway. It’s also possible to take a train between Hidroelectrica and Aguas Calientes to cut out further walking on day 3, but it’s an undemanding walk and I’d recommend just saving your money for alpaca jumpers!

The first day of the trek features a slight detour to the beautiful Laguna Humantay , which sits below a 5,950m peak of the same name, and day 2 involves more superb mountain scenery as you approach Apu Salkantay itself. From here, the scenery transitions to lush cloud forest , and then finally the walk culminates at Aguas Calientes, the tourist town that sits below Machu Picchu, where you’ll spend the night in a hotel. For the grand finale, rise early to make the journey up to Machu Picchu on foot (45min up 1,800 stairs) or via bus.

Solo or guided hike?

Unlike the well-known Inca Trail , the Salkantay Trek has no daily limit on the number of hikers (and is no where near as popular), so it’s entirely possible to book this trek closer to your travel dates or even solo hike this route without a guide . A number of companies offer 3-, 4-, and 5-day Salkantay Treks, ranging from $300-700USD for a tour with comfortable accommodation, delicious food, and horses that will carry a majority of your belongings.

I went on the 4-day tour with Salkantay Trekking , which was $400USD and absolutely amazing! The price includes all meals, luxury camping, entry to Machu Picchu, and transportation to and from Cusco , plus an incredibly knowledgable guide who peppered us with fascinating information along the trail about everything from native flora to ancient Incan rituals. I found it to be excellent value and would 110% recommend this company (and this trek) to anyone.

Machu Picchu bathed in golden early morning light

Salkantay Trek itinerary

Here’s the exact itinerary I followed on my 4-day Salkantay trek with Salkantay Trekking . Most companies follow an identical schedule, although 3-day and 5-day treks will differ slightly. You can also see heaps more photos and read my trail journal from each day of the trek (links below)!

Day 1: Challacancha to Soraypampa & Humantay Lake

Distance:  12km Elevation gain:  670m Highest elevation:  Laguna Humantay (4,200m) Trail hours:  4.5hrs Highlights:  Stunning views of Humantay and Salkantay glaciers throughout the walk; hike up to beautiful Laguna Humantay; sleeping under the Milky Way in the Sky Domes Campsite:  Sky Camp at Soraypampa (3,920m)

Read more: SALKANTAY TREK (DAY 1): CHALLACANCHA TO SORAYPAMPA & LAGUNA HUMANTAY

Day 2: Soraypampa to Chaullay via Salkantay Pass

Distance:  22km Elevation gain:  810m Highest elevation:  Salkantay Pass (4,650m) Trail hours:  8hrs Highlights:  Condor sightings as we climb out of the valley; absolutely insane views of Apu Salkantay; the high point at Salkantay Pass; changing scenery as we descend into the cloud forest Campsite:  Andean huts at Chaullay (2,900m)

Read more: SALKANTAY TREK (DAY 2): SORAYPAMPA TO CHAULLAY VIA SALKANTAY PASS

Day 3: Chaullay to Aguas Calientes

Distance:  26km Elevation gain: 250m Highest elevation:  Chaullay (2,900m) Trail hours:  6hrs Highlights:  Walking through lush, tropical cloud forest; beautiful waterfalls and rivers; our first glimpse of Machu Picchu on the walk to Aguas Calientes Campsite:  Hotel in Aguas Calientes

Read more: SALKANTAY TREK (DAY 3): CHAULLAY TO AGUAS CALIENTES

Day 4: Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu & Huayna Picchu

Distance:  13km Elevation gain:  860m Highest elevation:  Huayna Picchu (2,720m) Trail hours:  2.5hrs Highlights:  Hiking up to Machu Picchu in the dark; sunrise at Machu Picchu; summiting Huayna Picchu

Read more: SALKANTAY TREK (DAY 4): AGUAS CALIENTES TO MACHU PICCHU & HUAYNA PICCHU

Our Salkantay Trekking family

What to expect on the trail

For those who aren’t used to multi-day treks, the 70km distance might feel a bit long— but it’s really the altitude that adds a layer of difficulty to this trek (more on that below). That being said, I still wouldn’t classify Salkantay as a particularly hard hike .

The trail itself is fairly rugged, mostly dirt/dust with a few rocky sections. There are also a couple of steep ascents, specifically up to Laguna Humantay on day 1 and Salkantay Pass on day 2 (plus a knee-killing descent down from the pass). This makes day 2 the most challenging day in terms of elevation gain and loss, but the other days are still reasonably undemanding, so there’s plenty of time to recover. If you are acclimatised and of a reasonable fitness level, you should find these 4 days totally manageable and actually a fun challenge!

Reaching an elevation of 4,650m over Salkantay Pass and involving 2 full days of trekking above 3,500m , many hikers will notice symptoms associated with the altitude, such as headaches, shortness of breath, lethargy, nausea, and difficulty sleeping. It is therefore vital to acclimatise properly prior to setting out on this trek (read more about acclimatisation in this post).

The single best thing you can do to avoid Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS) and its more severe consequences (HACE or HAPE) is to spend time in Cusco before you do the Salkantay Trek. Try to set aside at least a few days to bum around town or take day trips to higher elevation, since these will help you acclimatise for Salkantay.

If you don’t have time to hang around in Cusco or if you know you’ve reacted poorly to high altitude in the past, it’s also possible to take Acetazolamide (Diamox) to aid your acclimatisation and prevent serious altitude sickness symptoms . My parents arrived in Cusco only 16hrs before our Salkantay trek, so they were very thankful to have the assistance of some medication and took it regularly along the trail. Upon the recommendation of our guide, they also used Agua Florida , which is an Andean herbal remedy for altitude sickness found in basically every shop around Cusco for a few soles (and the guides usually have a bottle for you to use).

Weather in the Peruvian Andes is typically grouped into two seasons: a  cool, dry winter (also called the “Andean Summer”) from May to September and a minimally warmer and much wetter summer from October to April . It’s possible to do the Salkantay trek year round, but I’d strongly recommend the Andean Summer, as you’ll be more likely to enjoy clear days and better views of the mountains.

One of the most interesting things about the Salkantay Trek is that you pass through distinct climate zones in just a few days— the first half of the trek is very alpine, which means freezing cold nights and mornings that transition into crisp, sunny days, whereas the second half of the trek crosses through cloud forest with high humidity and much warmer conditions . Definitely keep this in mind when you are packing for your trek, as you will need both hot and cold weather clothing to be comfortable.

Food & water

If you join a guided trek, all food and water will be provided for you along the trail. The standard of trek catering in Peru is extremely high, so expect hot, delicious meals, a variety of juices/teas/coffees, and snacks throughout the day. A typical dinner consists of 8-10 different dishes, including soups, salads and veggies, various meats, and Peruvian classics like  lomo saltado  or  ají de gallina.

Trekking companies also provide boiled water that is safe to drink both at mealtimes and in the mornings to refill your water bottles . Still, I would recommend bringing a water bottle with a filter so you are free to fill up directly from a sink or a stream during the day— I use this LifeStraw bottle on all of my travels and it was perfect for the hike.

Accommodation & facilities

Different companies offer a variety of accommodation, but the standard is generally quite high along the Salkantay trek. Our accommodation with Salkantay Trekking, for example, included a stay in the incredible Sky Domes with clear ceilings and amazing views of Salkantay and the stars (day 1), little Andean huts (day 2), and a nice hotel in Augas Calientes (day 3). The Sky Domes in particular were incredible and we all agreed we would have paid extra money just for the opportunity to sleep there.

The first 2 nights had shared bathrooms with proper toilets and running water (the second night even had hot showers for S/10) , comfortable beds, and warm blankets to put on top of your sleeping bag. Compared to the Inca Trail, this was much more luxurious and couldn’t even really be considered camping so much as  glamping. 

Approaching Salkantay Pass

Packing for the Salkantay Trek

This is a general year-round packing list for a guided Salkantay Trek, either 4 or 5 days. Nearly all companies operate the same way— they will give you a duffel that you can pack full of clothes and sleeping stuff (this will be carried by horses and you’ll get access to it each night at camp), and then you will carry water and other personal items you need frequent access to in your own small daypack.

I’ve linked to all the gear I used below, but if you are looking for more specific recommendations on trekking gear, check out this post: BUILDING THE ULTIMATE OUTDOOR ADVENTURE KIT: THE BEST HIKING & BACKPACKING GEAR FOR WOMEN

To wear on the first day

• Sport shirt
• Light fleece jumper
• Wind jacket
• Down jacket , you’ll want this on the drive, but it can go into your daypack after you start trekking and be worn around camp in the evenings/early mornings
• Tights or hiking pants
• Sturdy hiking boots , with thick wool socks and hiking liners
• Trekking poles , possible to purchase in Cusco or hire from your trekking company for about $20USD if you don’t own any poles; 100% essential in my opinion

To keep in your daypack (~25L)

• Water bladder or bottle , enough to carry 1-2L of water
• Small snacks , like nuts or protein bars (although you will also receive snacks from the trekking company)
• Rain jacket
• Bug spray,  for days 3-4
• Warm gloves , two pairs if you get really cold
• Camera,  plus spare batteries
• Drybag ,  to protect your electronics/other valuables in heavy rain
• Rain cover for your daypack ,  or you can purchase a plastic poncho that will cover you and your pack for a few Soles along the trail

To pack in the duffel (6-7kg, carried by horses)

• 2x spare hiking shirts , short sleeve or singlets
• Mountain jacket ,  great for hiking in chilly weather (since you really don’t want to sweat in your down jacket)
• Spare hiking shorts or tights
• 2x spare hiking socks and liner pairs
• Spare underwear
• Fleece tights or pants, for sleeping (I wore mine over the top of hiking tights on the coldest nights)
• Camp shoes , such as sandals or runners to wear around camp after each day’s hike
• Machu Picchu clothes , which might not be anything other than what you already packed, but maybe you want a sundress or even just clean clothes for your pictures at the ruins (as you can tell from my photos, I did not pack this)
• Toothpaste/toothbrush
• Soap/ shampoo , you have the opportunity to shower the night before you visit Machu Picchu in Aguas Calientes (and also possibly on the 2nd night of the trek)
• Body wipes ,  for a “mountain shower” on the nights before you get to Aguas Calientes
• Acetazolamide/Agua Florida/coca candies, for altitude sickness
• Sleeping bag , rated to -15C or similar; most companies will hire these out for about $20USD if you don’t have one with you
• Camping pillow ,  if you are one of those people who needs 2 pillows when you sleep (like me)
• Headlamp ,  helpful for finding your way around camp in the evening
• Powerbank , for charging your camera/phone
• Passport , essential to enter Machu Picchu
• Soles,  for tipping and optional extras like the bus to Machu Picchu and lunch in Aguas Calientes on day 4 (I’d recommend S/300 just to be super safe, but there are also heaps of ATMs in Augas Calientes and most restaurants accept card)
• Credit card

Read more about trekking in Peru

HIKING TO MACHU PICCHU: COMPARING THE CLASSIC INCA TRAIL VS SALKANTAY TREK

ABSOLUTELY EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT VISITING MACHU PICCHU (& NEW 2019 REGULATIONS)

THE ULTIMATE CUSCO TRAVEL GUIDE: 25 AMAZING THINGS TO DO IN CUSCO, PERU

A GUIDE TO TREKKING AUSANGATE & RAINBOW MOUNTAIN IN PERU

HIGH-ALTITUDE TREKKING: A COMPLETE GUIDE TO PREVENTING & TREATING ALTITUDE SICKNESS IN THE MOUNTAINS

HUANDOY VIEWPOINT & LAGUNA PARÓN: A STUNNING DAY HIKE FROM HUARAZ, PERU

THE ULTIMATE GUIDE TO INDEPENDENT & SOLO HIKING THE HUAYHUASH CIRCUIT IN PERU

HIGHLIGHTS FROM 10 DAYS ON THE HUAYHUASH CIRCUIT

brooke brisbine

I've spent the last decade exploring the world— everything from solo trekking in the Andes to overlanding in Zambia, all while completing a PhD in Biomechanics, teaching at a university & securing permanent residency in Australia. In 2020, I finally fulfilled my dream of becoming a full-time nomad! Whether it’s vanlife in Mexico, scuba diving in the Galápagos, ticking off incredible US National Parks, or climbing in the Dolomites, I hope this blog will inspire your future adventures & help you find wonder in every corner of the globe. xx bb

Leave a Comment Cancel Comment

You may also like, diy inca ruins walking tour: visiting tambomachay, puka pukara, q’enqo & sacsahuamán without a guide, nevado de toluca hiking guide: best volcano climbs in mexico, vanlife diaries #42: la ventana, ensenada de muertos & cabo pulmo national park, baja mexico.

• Best Hikes In The World
• Appalachian Trail
• European Hikes
• Nepal Hikes
• Patagonia Hikes
• See All Hikes
• Mount Kenya
• Mount Kilimanjaro
• Mount Toubkal
• See All Mountains
• South Africa
• New Zealand
• Switzerland
• United Kingdom
• Packing Lists

Salkantay Trek To Machu Picchu (Expert Guide)

Hikes , Machu Picchu , Peru , South & Central America

Welcome to MountainIQ’s guide to hike The Salkantay - one of many great treks to Machu Picchu  located in South America's picturesque mountain ranges .

Here you will find an overview of the Salkantay trail and learn about various options for a typical day-to-day itinerary, the best time of year to do the hike.

You will also find detailed information on what level of fitness is required for the hike, how to train, what to bring on the trek, and how much you should budget for a budget, mid-range or private Peruvian Andes adventure.

Salkantay Trail Overview

The Salkantay trek is the second most popular trek to Machu Picchu, after the  Classic Inca Trail .

Some of the advantages of the trek are its accessibility from Cusco , the physically manageable climb and the diverse, impressive scenery the pathway passes on your way to Machu Picchu.

While most trekkers enjoy the help of a guide company, it is possible to complete this journey on your own. Guidelines for this more daring adventure are also detailed below.

There are several route variations that each add a different flavor to your experience.

Typically, the hike is concluded over a 5-day/ 4-night expedition. Although, it is possible to squeeze the mission into 4 days and 3 nights.

There is also the option of combining the Salkantay trail with the Classic Inca trail, which are outlined further below. 

Mount Salkantay (or Nevada Salkantay/Salcantay), the mountain after which this trek is named, is one of the most iconic mountains in the area surrounding Cusco.

It stands at 6,271 m tall and the Quechua name  Salkantay  literally means  savage  or  wild  . Therefore, it is not conquered by any but the most intrepid mountaineers.

Although the Salkantay Trail fortunately doesn't entail summiting its breath-taking peak, trekkers will spend much of their hike with an impressive view of Mount Salkantay on approach and while scaling the Salkantay Pass.  

The mountain is located 60km North-West of Cusco and is directly south of Machu Picchu.

Although invisible from the Citadel, Salkantay was auspiciously located and was believed to be one of the deities that determined the weather in the region. 

Typical Salkantay Itinerary

Below is the most common 5-day/4-night itinerary used by most tour companies. Although slight variations on this standard itinerary is possible. We have also given extra information for those planning on trying the hike unassisted.

Day 1: Cusco to Salkantaypampa via Mollepata and Soraypampa

• Total distance: ~12 km
• Total time walking: ~ 5- 7 hours.

After an early morning departure from Cusco (3400m), you will drive for about 3 hours to the town of Mollepata for breakfast. If you are hiking without a tour company, you can either organize a private car or use the public bus for this drive.

Some may start the trek from Mollepata but the roads aren’t ideal and most tour operators skip these extra miles and transfer you on a 4 X4 to start from Sayapata (Sayllapata) (3200m).

From Sayapata, you start a gradual 3-to-4-hour climb towards Soraypampa (3850m), where you will probably stop for lunch. Some tour groups set up camp here, while others continue on to reach Salkantaypampa (3900m) in another 2-3 hours.

Day 2: Salkantaypampa to Collpapampa, via Soyrococha, Abra Salkantay and El Passo – Huaracmachay

• Total distance: ~15 km
• Total time walking: ~7-10 hours

Day 2 is going to be the most challenging of the Salkantay trek – so buckle up!

The trek from Salkantaypampa to Soyrococha (4470m) is about 2.5 hours long. The gradient slowly increases, and after about an hour you will reach the windy 7 Culebras (7 snakes), a zig-zagging pathway heading towards Soyrococha. You will probably reach Soyrococha at around 10 am, and you will be feeling the effects of the high altitude by this point. But this is just the start of the challenge. After continuing upwards for about an hour you will reach Salkantay Pass (4600m) with amazing vistas of the mountain. From here you will descend for 3 hours to Huaracmachay (3750m) where you will enjoy a well-deserved lunch. Some tour companies settle down here for the night, but most tours plan to continue for a 3-hour descent to Collpapampa (2850m) to end an impressive day.

Day 3: Collpapampa to La Playa

• Total distance: ~10 km
• Total time walking: ~6-7 hours

After a slight ascent in the early morning, your day will be spend walking down towards La Playa (2050m).

Day 3 might be a little more crowded with fellow trekkers than the previous days. If you are hiking alone it is a good idea for you to leave Collpapampa with another tour group to avoid getting confused by the subsidiary trails which lead off the main path which leads to La Playa.   

La Playa is a small town, so many tour companies keep walking to Lacmabamba to avoid the bustle of locals and tourists.

Day 4: Colcamaya/La Playa - via Lucmabamba - Aguas Calientes

Option 1: colcamaya to aguas calientes.

Day 4 marks the end of the official hiking, but your adventure is not over yet. There are a number of options available to you to be discussed with your tour group beforehand.

If you are really exhausted from a long week of hiking, spending some time relaxing in the Hot Springs in Colcamaya near the town of Santa Theresa.

Here, you can spend the morning soaking your deserving feet, looking out at the scenic jungle. You will then be transported to Hidroelectrica Station from where you can either hike or catch a train to Aguas Calientes.

Option 2: La Playa to Aguas Calientes, via Lucmabamba

Another option for Day 4 is the most popular, means a quick early morning hike from La Playa to Lucmabamba. This option requires a up to 7 hours of trekking.

You will then spend about 2 hours hiking up to Llactapata, an Incan ruin discovered by Hiram Bingham on the same mission that Machu Picchu was discovered in 1911.

This site has not been restored as Machu Picchu has been, so it has the same overgrown appearance that Machu Picchu would have had if left to its own devices.

From here, you will catch your first glimpse of Machu Picchu itself. You will then hike down to the Hidroelectrica Station and catch the train or keep walking on to  Aguas Calientes . 

Finally, you have the option of riding South America’s highest zip-line which rests 150m off the ground in Cola de Mono. Hereafter, you either hike or train to Aguas Calientes.

Day 5: Machu Picchu

After rejuvenating overnight in a hotel in Aguas Calientes, you can take a bus up to Machu Picchu for a day of culture. We recommend heading up as early as possible to make the sunrise and avoid heavy crowds.

You can of course walk to Machu Picchu, but be prepared for a good 90-minute trek is ahead of you. Importantly, remember to bring your passport with you to enter Machu Picchu.

We also recommend either hiring a tour guide, or taking a good guide book alone because an informed walk around the ancient ruins improves the experience exponentially.

Some people also squeeze in a hike of Huayna Picchu, a mountain to the North of the citadel. This is amongst  the craziest hikes in the world !

After your day in the Incan ruin, you can either walk or catch a bus back to Aguas Calientes, train to Ollantaytambo and finally train to Cusco.

If you’re hiking without a guide and are looking to cut costs, you can trek back to Hidroelectrica Station and bus all the way to Cusco via Santa Theresa and Ollantaytambo.

Photo by  Tierras Vivas

Pro Tip:  There is the added convenience that permits are not required to hike the Salkantay Trek as they are for the Inca Trail.

Salkantay / Inca Combo Itinerary

This trek has the beautiful scenery of the Salkantay Trail as well as the historical importance of the Classic Inca trail. The route is longer and tougher than the classic Salkantay Trail, taking 7 days and 6 nights as well as an Inca trail permit.

Day 1: Cusco to Ichupata via Mollepata and Soraypampa

After acclimatising in Cusco for at least 2-3 days, you’ll take a morning drive to Mollepata (3 hours) for breakfast and on for another 2 hours to Soraypampa. From Soraypampa you will hike for ~3 hours to Ichupata.

Day 2: Ichupata to Sisaypampa over the Incachiriasca Pass

Day 2 is tough, starting with a steep hike over the Incachiriasca Pass (4900m) and then a descent down to Sisaypampa (4100m) where you will likely spend the night.

Day 3: Sisaypampa to Ayapata

You will continue downwards to the small Pampacahuana community (3,300m).

You will then continue towards Paucarcancha, an Incan fortress, and then on to Wayllabamba where you will join the Classic Incan trail.

After lunch, you will head up from Wayllabamba towards Warmihuañusca Pass (aka Dead Woman’s Pass).

You will reach half way before setting up camp in Ayapata.

Day 4: Ayapata to Chaquicocha

The climb up Dead Woman’s Pass continues on Day 4, before the descent into Pacaymayo valley (3600m).

You will then traverse a second, easier pass called Abra Runkurakay (3,970m).

After passing the Runkurakay ruin, the Yanacocha Lake and the Sayacmarca ruin (3,624m) you will reach your campsite at Chaquicocha (3,600m).

Day 5: Chaquicocha to Wiñaywayna

Your fifth morning will begin with a climb up Abra de Phuyupatamarca Pass (3,700m).

 After admiring the scenery and historical ruins, you will hike down to Wiñaywayna (2,650m) campsite for the night.

Day 6: Winaywayna – Machu Picchu

Day 6 is the typical “visit Machu Picchu day” and starts early in the morning to catch the sunrise.

You will generally trek to the Inti Punku (the Sun Gate) and thereafter experience a tour of the city, as explained above. 

Photo by  nonodelbosque

Best time to go on the Salkantay Trek

When deciding what time to hike the Salkantay trail, you must decide whether you want to prioritize good weather or relatively empty trails.

The dry months are generally between the end of April and the start of November.

While the Salkantay trek is never quite as busy as the Classic Inca trail, during the dry season some of the crowds do overflow from the Classic Inca trail to the second most popular alternative, the Salkantay Trek.

For this reason, we recommend hiking during the shoulder dry months of March/April and October/November to optimize the hiking conditions.

However, it is possible for you to enjoy you hike at almost all times of the year. Although we would strongly advise against going in the months of December, January and February when the rainfall is high. 

The temperatures remain relatively constant throughout the year, with the average daily highs resting around 21°C and the night-time lows around 5°C.

It is common for temperatures to fall below freezing during the evenings though. So, you must be sure to be adequately prepared by packing layered clothing. See our packing list for advice on how to beat any bad weather. 

If you decide to do a combined Salkantay-Machu Picchu trek, you can see more details about  the best time of year to hike to Machu Picchu .

Salkantay Trail FAQ

Am i at risk from altitude sickness on the salkantay trail.

There is always the risk of getting  altitude sickness  on the Salkantay Trail. Its effects are felt by most at any point above 3,000m above sea level. 

You will spend almost your entire trek to Machu Picchu above this point, reaching 4,600m (for the classic Salkantay Trek) or 4,900m (if you do the Salkantay/Inca combination).

Thus, you can expect to feel some degree of the symptoms with include fatigue, nausea and headaches.

It is impossible to predict your reaction to altitude sickness as it doesn’t have a correlation with your age or fitness level. So being wary of the effects and treatments is essential for a safe climb.

Some of the most important tips that will help in your efforts to avoid altitude sickness is to spend adequate time in Cusco (at least 2 days) or even some time in lower Sacred Valley.

It is important that you drink enough water – at least 2 liters per day, avoid drinking or taking drugs (including sleeping pills), and remember not to hike too fast. 

What should I include in my Salkantay packing list? 

There are a number of essential gear items that you might need to purchase to bring along on your Peruvian adventure along the Salkantay trail. 

See more in our  detailed Classic Inca Trail packing list  as you'll need the same  hiking equipment for the Salkantay trail too. 

Do I need to do any training for the Salkantary Trek? 

You definitely need some training for the Salkantay Trek. The Salkantay and Inca/Salkantay Combo treks are both considered moderate to challenging (particularly the latter).

To ensure that you are in the best possible condition to undertake this adventure, you must be relatively aerobically fit, training about 3 times a week in the gym in the months leading up to your hike.

Exercises like cycling, running and swimming will be great to get your cardiovascular fitness up.

It is also a good idea to go on a few day-long hikes in your own country to harden your muscles, break in your boots and give you a feel for what you should be expecting. 

How much does the Salkantay Trek cost? 

The cost of your Salkantay trek varies hugely depending on the quality of experience and touring company you choose.

You can of course undertake to do the trek alone, but this is not advisable to for an inexperienced trekker. Otherwise, there are tours which cost as low as $450 per person, all the way up to $1,300 per person. 

See more details in our article on Machu Picchu trekking costs .

Do you recommended reading any guidebooks before hiking the Salkantay?

It never hurts to do some light reading on the region you're about to travel to. The Lonely Planet Peru Travel Guide is one of the most detailed, yet easy to digest guidebooks on the Peruvian Andes and has most of the Salkantay treks and routes in it. 

Other Hiking Articles:

• Hiking the Inca Jungle Trail
• Permits for hiking the Inca Trail
• Hiking the Vilcabamba trail
• Trekking the Lares
• South American Hikes
• South American Mountains

About the author 

Mark Whitman

Mark has trekked extensively in Asia, Europe, South America and Africa. He founded Mountain IQ in 2014 with the sole aim to be the best online information portal to some of the most popular mountain destinations around the world. When not writing for Mountain IQ, Mark is out exploring the outdoors with his wife!

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked

We work with local guides to offer great value adventures at unbeatable prices

Northern Circuit

Western breach.

• Acclimatisation
• Packing List
• Climbing Cost
• Coronavirus
• Visa’s, Vaccinations, Malaria
• Kilimanjaro Blog
• Climb for Charity
• Get A Trek Quote

Kilimanjaro Routes – A Complete Overview

Are you trying to work out which Kilimanjaro route to choose for your trek ? Fear not, this page will help you make the right choice.

Each Kilimanjaro route has it's own pros and cons. Some are great for scenery, but not so great for acclimatisation (see: altitude sickness on Kilimanjaro ). Others offer high summit success rates but are also quite busy at certain times of the year.

Let's jump in and look at the various Kilimanjaro routes to the summit. 

Plan your Kilimanjaro trek

Get a quote from our recommended local kilimanjaro operator, kilimanjaro climb routes.

There are six main Kilimanjaro routes that one can use to trek the highest mountain in Africa. The seventh Kilimanjaro route, Mweka, is used for decent only.

Lemosho Route

Machame route, marangu route.

• Mweka Route (descent only)

Rongai Route

Shira route, umbwe route.

In addition to these routes, trekkers can also take the Northern Circuit or the Western Breach.

Kilimanjaro Route Summaries

Which is the best kilimanjaro route.

The best Mt Kilimanjaro route on the southern circuit is the Machame or Lemosho route.

Here's a brief overview of each;

• The Machame route , often described as the 'short and steep' route, is highly recommended for scenic value and has a high success rate, especially if you choose the 7-day itinerary.
• The six-day options is not recommended for first-time trekkers. 
• It is a great Kilimanjaro route for acclimatization as it has a climb high, sleep low opportunity for trekkers on day 3. Here trekkers climb from Shira Camp 2 to Lava Tower at 4,600 meters, where they have lunch and then hike back down to Barranco Camp (3,900 meters) to sleep
• Like all Kilimanjaro routes, the Machame is a challenging trek with stunning scenery through four diverse climatic zones .
• There is a good opportunity to split pre-summit day climb by adding an extra rest day at Karanga Camp (only available to seven day trekkers) to leave hikers well rested before summiting
• The route has however got very popular over the past few years which means it can get busy, especially at Barranco where climbers join up with trekkers from the Lemosho, Shira and Umbwe routes (see details on Barranco Wall )
• The Machame route only offers fully catered camping

The few km's between Karanga and Barafu are not very scenic. Aso be prepared to get blasted by cold, high altitude winds.

Why choose the 7-Day Machame Route? Six day Machame route trekkers skip Karanga Camp and continue straight on to Barafu (Base Camp).This is only only about 4km further, which is fine if you are feeling good. However, if you are tired and suffering from altitude sickness symptoms (as most people are), it means you have very little rest before your midnight summit attempt. The 7-day option is much better for acclimatisation.

• The Lemosho is a beautiful route that departs from the West side of Mount Kilimanjaro
• Due to its route profile the Lemosho can be completed on a seven or eight day itinerary and offers lots of opportunities to properly acclimatize. Because of it’s versatile route profile it is one of the best Kilimanjaro routes and has high summit success rates
• It is also recommended as the starting point is relatively remote and hence provides trekkers with a rather untouched and wild start to their Kilimanjaro adventure. Spotting large wildlife, like antelope, buffalo and even elephant is unusual but not impossible
• The route also provides unparalleled and spectacular views of the dramatic gorges that characterize the western side of Mount Kilimanjaro
• The Lemosho offers trekkers the experience of hiking across the Shira Plateau – one of the largest high altitude plateaus in the world
• Trekkers on the Lemosho typically converge with Machame route on day 3 at Barranco camp and use the Barafu camp route to the summit; however, it is now quite common for Lemosho trekkers to veer north before Lava Tower to join the Northern Circuit (see details below) which circles the north side of Mount Kilimanjaro and follows the summit passage via Gilman’s Point.
• The Lemosho route can also be used by trekkers planning to climb the Western Breach to the summit
• Like the Machame Route, the Lemosho is fully catered camping only

• The Northern Circuit is the longest route on Mount Kilimanjaro, and has one of the highest summit success rates as the route offers lots of climb high, sleep low opportunities, and time to acclimatise
• The route departs from same start point as Lemosho but then joins the Northern Circuit near Lava Tower, before traversing the north slopes of Mount Kilimanjaro
• The summit passage is via Gilman’s Point
• The route can be completed on an eight or nine day itinerary
• If you are looking for a quiet and wild Kilimanjaro experience, then this route is for you.

• The Rongai route is the only northern start point to Kilimanjaro, beginning on the North East side of Kilimanjaro National Park
• The Rongai offers a true wilderness experience on the early stages of the climb, and like the Lemosho route it is possible to see large wildlife like buffalo, antelope and elephant
• The Northern slopes tend to be dryer than the southern slopes which makes the Rongai a great Kilimanjaro Route for trekking during the wet season.
• However, because the northern slopes are dryer they can also be considered less scenic. That being said, a northern approach is often characterized by clear views of Kilimanjaro – something that is not that common from the southern side
• The Rongai is also a flatter route for the first few days which makes for easy trekking. The route is usually completed on a seven day itinerary but has limited climb high, sleep low opportunities which means that acclimatisation opportunities are not as good as on other Kilimanjaro routes
• Typically the Rongai route uses the passage from School Hut up past Hans Meyer Cave and Gilman’s Point to Uhuru Peak
• The route descends via the Marangu route, hence the route has fully catered camping until the last night on the mountain – beers at Horombo Hut anyone?

Easiest route up Kilimanjaro

There is no easy route up Mount Kilimanjaro, but the Marangu Route (i.e. Coca-Cola Route) has a reputation for being the easiest Kilimanjaro route.

Image: Tony Young

• The Marangu route was Nicknamed the ‘Coca-Cola’ route as Coke used to be sold along the way in tea huts
• The route is often selected by unprepared, inexperienced climbers as a result of the reputation for being the “easiest” Kilimanjaro route, attributing to the lower success rate
• It is also the shortest Kilimanjaro route with a relatively poor acclimatization profile, which is a major contributor to the low success rates on the Marangu.
• The six day itinerary does give trekkers an opportunity to climb high, sleep low; however the elevation is moderate and not as effective as other climb high, sleep low opportunities that are present on other Kilimanjaro routes
• Out of all the Kilimanjaro routes, the Marangu route is the only one with dormitory style accommodation in huts for the whole duration of the climb. The huts come with mattresses and basic amenities, making them a popular choice for budget tour operators who don’t have the right equipment to tackle the other Kilimanjaro routes
• The Marangu offers beautiful views from the Saddle but can be considered less scenic than other Kilimanjaro routes due to ascent and descent on same trail

Kilimanjaro Routes I Don't Recommend

• Same as Lemosho, except Shira route offers higher start point and therefore poorer acclimatisation
• It is a route that we wouldn’t recommend because of it’s high start point
• The Umbwe Route has a short and steep beginning profile up to Barranco camp where trekkers join climbers from the Lemosho, Shira and Machame route
• Some Umbwe route trekkers don’t join the southern circuit at Barranco but instead continue north, up to Lava Tower and then onto the Western Breach
• The Umbwe has poor acclimatization opportunities due to its rapid ascent and therefore success rates can be low on this Kilimanjaro route
• Fully catered camping only
• The Western Breach is the most technically difficult approach to Mount Kilimanjaro, but perhaps the most rewarding!
• The approach to the Western Breach usually starts on the Umbwe Route and then continues north and up from Lava Tower
• The Western Breach was closed due to fatal rockfall in 2006, but reopened in 2007 with a new and safer route configuration. Nonetheless, many tour operators don’t offer the Western Breach on their route roster
• Only advised for experienced trekkers – it is recommended that all Western Breach climbers use helmets and it is not uncommon to need point crampons during the wet season and sub-surface ice can be an issue
• Success rates are typically moderate to high as the route is usually only tackled by experienced high altitude trekkers

Kilimanjaro Summit Routes (Passages)

As alluded to above, there are three summit passages on Kilimanjaro.

Stella Point

An especially snowy day at Stella Point (about one hour from the summit).

The first is via the southern slopes of Kibo, up to Stella Point and then west around the crater rim to Uhuru Peak. This approach is used by trekkers on the Lemosho, Shira, Machame and Umbwe Routes. It is the easiest summit passage as it only take one hour from Stella Point to Uhuru Peak.

Gilman's Point

The second passage approaches from the Eastern side of Kibo, up to Gilman’s Point and then west around the crater rim to Uhuru Peak. Trekkers on the Rongai and Marangu Route, and Northern Circuit use this passage to the summit. It takes around two hours from Gilman's Point to the summit proper, making this a harder passage.

Crater Camp (Western Breach)

Thirdly, trekkers can use the more technically challenging approach to the summit via the Western Breach. Trekkers who use the Western Breach usually approach from the Umbwe Route up to Lava Tower, before taking a steep ascent past Arrow’s Glacier and up the Western Breach to Crater Camp and Uhuru Peak. The Western Breach can also be approached using the Machame, Shira and Lemosho Route.

Kilimanjaro Trail Routes FAQ

What is the best kilimanjaro route.

The best Kilimanjaro route is the 8-day Lemosho or the 7-day Machame. Both routes offer good acclimatisation opportunities, and therefore have low incidence of altitude sickness. Summit success rates on these routes are high, and both are very scenic.

What is the easiest Kilimanjaro route?

The Marangu route is often touted as the easiest route on Kilimanjaro. This is because it's the shortest in length and the only route with hut accommodation. But the short time on the mountain does mean that many people who climb Kilimanjaro via the Marangu experience altitude sickness and don't reach the summit. If you choose the Marangu route make sure to go for the 6-day option (not the 5-day trek)

Which Kilimanjaro route has the highest summit success rates?

No Kilmanjaro route is 'easy' but the Machame 7-Day option does offer shorter distances and good opportunity for acclimatization.

The Northern Circuit has the highest summit success rates as it is the longest route and offers lots of time to acclimatise. The 8-day Lemosho and 7-day Machame also have high summit success rates.

More Kilimanjaro guides :

• Kilimanjaro hike guide
• Weather on Mount Kilimanjaro
• When to climb Kilimanjaro
• Training and preparation for Mount Kilimanjaro
• Kilimanjaro climb costs
• Fun Kilimanjaro facts for kids (and adults!)

Mark Whitman

Hi, I'm Mark! Welcome to Climb Kilimanjaro Guide - the Web's No.1 Trekking Guide to Mount Kilimanjaro. This site is your one stop shop for everything Kilimanjaro. To date over 5 million people have visited Climb Kilimanjaro Guide, many of which have gone on to summit Kili! I hope you find all the answers you are looking for, but if you have any questions don't hesitate to drop a comment below!

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked

Name * * * * *

Email * * * * *

I am trying to choose a route to climb. I have looked at all of them and need your expert opinion to help me choose. I am climbing alone although I would join a group if there was one. I want to find the route that will give me the prettiest sights. I have narrowed it to Machame, Umbwe and Lemosho which all combine at Barranco. So, which route would give me the most fascinating first 2-3 days? And if it’s the Umbwe route, how worried should I be about the altitude? Does the fact that it doesn’t have a climb high and sleep low make it nearly impossible or can someone in great shape who takes it slow be ok? I assume the other routes will not be a problem, and I even wonder about the altitude differences in all of them. Can you descend on Umbwe if experiencing AMS and extend the route a day? I know I asked a lot and I thank you for your attention to this.

Hi Corey, Thanks for your comment. The two key things to consider when selecting a route on Kilimanjaro: 1. Make sure that the route duration is long enough to ensure adequate acclimatisation. Five day routes are just too rapid. Ideally I recommend seven day treks; however, six day treks are an affordable alternative. 2. Make sure the route provides a climb high, sleep low option. Again, this is a critical factor in many trekkers success on Kilimanjaro and I highly recommend you go for a route that provides this option. With these two considerations in mind, I recommend either the seven day Lemosho Route which departs from the West of the Mountain and provides ample opportunity to acclimatize. Alternatively, I am also a fan of the seven day Machame Route. If I was pushed I would say the Lemosho is the most scenic of the two (but not by much). Hope this helps. If you would like a trekking quote from our trekking partner check out this page ( https://www.climbkilimanjaroguide.com/go/ ) and we’ll get them to follow up with you. All the best!

I am 60 years old with decent hiking experience.Have done Machu Pichu,Patagonia and Everest base camp till 15000 feet when we were stopped due to snow. What route do you think is best and sucess to sumit Thanks

Hi, I recommend either the 7-day Machame or 8-day Lemosho. If you have more time then you may want to consider the 9-day Northern Circuit. All the best!

Hi there, I (48 yr old female) would like to climb Kilimanjaro with a friend in September. Whilst my friend is experienced at high altitude climbing, I am only used to day hikes in the Alps, up to 3000 m. From what I read, the 7 day Rongai route might be an option – I am not much concerned about scenic beauties, but feasibility… Also our time slot is rather small (20.-28.09.16), so I guess we have to consider a private tour, although I wouldn’t mind a group. So my questions are: would you recommend Rongai as well, or another option? I haven’t seen any summit success rates for this route, but I imagine they might not be too high, due to the fact that inexperienced trekkers like myself tend to choose this one?! And could you possibly also recommend tour operators? And one last question (for the moment ;-): what do you think about the prophylactic use of Diamox? Many thanks, Manuela

Hi Manuela, The 7-day Rongai is a good route, but as you say it is not the most scenic. It also doesn’t provide an excellent climb high, sleep low profile and in my opinion the approach to the summit via Gilman’s Point is more challenging as it is longer and a little steeper than that on the Southern Circuit routes (which use Stella Point). On the whole though it is not a bad route and definitely worth considering. Alternatively I would recommend the 7-day Machame or Lemosho. These two routes are more scenic (especially the latter that starts on the far West side of Kilimanjaro) and do have very good acclimatisation profiles. The Machame is a busy route so if you are trying to avoid people then it is perhaps not the best. The two routes converge at Barranco Camp so you can expect a busier summit night. If I was pushed I would say the 7 or preferably 8-day Lemosho is the best route on Kilimanjaro. If you have the time, the Northern Circuit is also very good from an acclimatisation perspective. To get a tour operator recommendation go here: https://www.climbkilimanjaroguide.com/go/ and for information on Diamox go here: https://www.climbkilimanjaroguide.com/using-diamox-on-kilimanjaro/ . All the best!

I want to do the Rongai Route in August. Since I learned from your overview, the route doesn’t offer the best acclimatisation, so I wonder if it would be wise to do Mt. Meru upfront?

Thank you for your recommendation,

Hi Valentin, The 7-day Rongai route is not too bad when it comes to acclimatisation. I think I was referencing the 6 day on the route guide. That being said, if your have the time then doing Mount Meru before Kili will always benefit your summit success chances and provide the opportunity to summit another iconic African peak!

Hello, Thank you for your nice page and information. I’m still in doubt if I would do the regular lemosho route or start with the lemosho route and then take the northern route. I want the most scenic route. On one hand I kind of like the ‘lonilyness’ of the northern route, on the other hand I heard barranco camp is such a nice place. What would you recommend?

Hi Eva, That’s a tough one. Both routes are fantastic. The key difference is length and popularity. In terms of length the Northern Circuit is longer in distance and days. This can be positive in terms of acclimitisation and hence summit success, but can mean more trekking fatigue as you are on the mountain for longer than the standard Lemosho. The second point is probably more pertinent. The Northern Circuit is significantly less travelled. On the Lemosho the route joins up with all Southern Circuit routes and therefore many more people are on the trail. I would estimate about 50 times more people on the Southern Circuits vs. the Northern Circuit. Finally the summit approach is different on the Northern Circuit as it takes the route up the East side of Kibo via Gilman’s Point. This approach is slightly longer than the Stella Point approach. Either way both routes are great so it really comes done to whether you want a quiet trekking experience or busier camp / trail experience. Hope this helps!

I’m 65, and just back from the Salkantay trek to Machu Picchu, including a 15,000 ft (4600 m) pass, with no problems. In your experience, does having done well at 15,000 ft mean altitude problems on Kilimanjaro are very unlikely, or is the difference so great that it is not predictive? Thanks!

Hi Brian, congrats on completing the Salkantay trail. I have done it too and it was fantastic! It is a good sign that you coped well with the altitude but unfortunately this isn’t necessarily a great predicator of how you will perform at altitude in the future. Kilimanjaro is quite a bit higher than the Salkantay trail and the altitude is much more sustained. Unlike the Salkatay where you go high to get over a pass, Kilimanjaro is sustained ascent so the risk of altitude sickness is much higher. That being said, if you follow best practice by choosing a route that has at least 7 days on the mountain (i.e. the 7 day Machame or 8 day Lemosho) as well as try to take the try nice and slow, then you will give yourself the best chance of summiting without experiencing altitude sickness. Hope this helps. It’s worth reading this article: https://www.climbkilimanjaroguide.com/acclimatization-kilimanjaro/

I am looking to choose a truck up Mount Kilimanjaro. I don’t mind steep but I don’t like cliffs or feeling like I’m on the edge of a very high point which Trails do you recommend for somebody like myself in great condition just not loving the Heights

Hi Heidi, There are no real big exposures on Kilimanjaro. The Southern Circuit routes (Lemosho, Machame) go over the Barranco Wall, which is a slightly exposed scramble, but looks more scary than whht it actually is: https://www.climbkilimanjaroguide.com/barranco-wall-mt-kilimanjaro/ . If you want to avoid the Barranco Wall then the Rongai route is your best option.

Hello, I am Charles, 30 Yrs Tanzanian. I have two big Adventure to accomplish in my life, to drive across all countries in Africa and to Climb Mount Kilimanjaro. I would like to spend my birthday week in September to climb the mountain. I need your recommendations on the best routes which is affordable and safe for me. Kindly assist for me to achieve my life time dream!

Hi Charles, I recommend the 7 Day Machame or 8 Day Lemosho. All the best!

I’m a relatively experienced hiker from coastal Texas. Being that I’ve lived my entire life 60’ above sea level I have spent very little time at altitude. However, this past Thanksgiving I did an hour long hike in Switzerland on the Jungfrau glacier (+13,000) in knee to thigh deep snow with no side effects other than total exhaustion of course. Hiking in snow sucks when you’re from Houston. Anyway, I’m planning a trip to Kilimanjaro and I really really really really want to tackle the Western Breach. I’m the typical stupid Texan with the go big or keep your ass on the porch mentality. I do not however have a death wish so…. Is it possible for someone in my situation to attempt this route having never done a 19er before.

Hi Jennifer, yes, its is possible to attempt the Western Breach. In fact as far as hiking goes the route is much more difficult the standard routes on Kilimanjaro. The reason why people avoid this route is because of rockfall risk and sustained altitude gain which doesn’t help with acclimatisation.

how are the sanitary and higienic facilities during these routs! Do the huts offer the toilets in the dorm?

Hi Boris, all camps have long drop loos. They are generally quite good, as far as camping long drops go. Some tour operators offer portable loos as part of their package. Here is more detail: https://www.climbkilimanjaroguide.com/toilets-on-kilimanjaro/

Hi, I am 76 years old fit and healthy, maybe some arthritis in the knees. I have successfully peaked mt Kinabalu in Sabah 3 years ago and completed the Everest base camp without any problems 2 years ago. I am very active and do walking treks in Sydney, Australia. I need your advice to peak Mt Kilimanjaro. Which routes.? Thanks

Hi Bhoopinder, thanks for getting in touch. You sound super fit for your age. I recommend going for either the 7 day Machame or 8 day Lemosho. Both are well profiled for acclimatisation and have high summit success rates.

Hi, I went to Kilimanjaro Machame 6 days hike in September 28, 2019. I went up to Baraja camp and for some reasons I did not join the summit day hike at night. I had no altitude sickness neither any other physical issues. I came back next morning via Melaka camp. Since then I am extremely repenting for not attempting to summit . I am thinking to go back in Christmas holiday just to reach to the top via Marangu Route. I have no desire to enjoy any scenic views. Just asking your opinion, is that too soon to return to the mountain barely in two months? Or, should I wait for few more months to ensure I will reach to the summit for sure? Please advise. Than Best regards

Hi Sandy, sorry to hear that you didn’t summit. I see no issue going back around Christmas to give it another go. To give yourself the bast chance of summiting though I would recommend a longer route like the 7 day Machame or 8 day Lemosho. These have good acclimatisation profiles and therefore reduce the risk of altitude sickness. All the best!

There are between 3 and 5 of us who will be in Kenya from May 3-17, 2020, and considering hiking Mt. Kilimanjaro afterwards. If you think the weather will allow, is there a tour operator who you can recommend we contact who will give us a great opportunity to get to the top? We’re all quite good hikers. I have been to Everest base camp a few years ago, and the others have ascended Mt. Fuji. We live near the Rocky Mountains and hike there. Thank you.

Hi Robert, sounds great. You can get a tour operator recommendation here: https://www.climbkilimanjaroguide.com/go/

Which route do you recommend for a “shorter/easier” summit? I’ve seen some summits go from Kosovo, instead of a lower camp.

Hi Dave, the 5-day Marangu is the shortest route on Kilimanjaro but has relatively low summit success rates as it doesn’t provide much time to acclimatise. If you are looking for a short route with reasonable summit success rates then I recommend the 6-day Machame.

HI Mark, I have successfully climbed Aconcogua in 1993, Denali in 1995, but was unsuccessful in climbing Kilimanjaro in 1997 reaching the small hill right below the summit, but for some reason was turned back when my group witch had already summited were coming down? I was so disappointed that I went back in Nov. the next year and attempted the great western breach with the same guides. Probably the most dangerous thing I have ever done. The gwb was a 45% snow slope and unlike Denali the guides had no equipment except for one ice axe that they used to cut hand and foot holds in the ice. After several hour we turned around because of impending avalanche danger when the sun hit the slope I shudder each time I think of that experience! I returned with my wife in 2003 on the Marangu Route, she stopped at Kibo, but I reached Gillmans Pt., but because of the footwear I chose I kept slipping and didn’t have time for the summit. The mountain has been my nemesis. I am now 80 years old and would to go for another try. You’ll probably tell me to forget it , but It’s been nagging at me for all these years, so what in my case would be my best option? Best time of year and best route? Jim

Hi James, nemesis indeed – like Ed Visteurs on Annapurna. Your ’98 attempt on the Western Breach sounds frightening. Thankfully the guides and operators on the mountain have professionalized over the last 20 years, so things are a lot safer. It’s a big ask at 80, but you sound very fit so it’s totally doable. Best time to go I would say June-October, and the best route is the 7-day Machame or 8-day Lemosho. Here’s some inspiration: https://www.climbkilimanjaroguide.com/anne-lorimor-oldest-person-kilimanjaro/ . All the best!

I am 62, medium build and fit. I am plannin a Kili hike for the fall of 2023. I was told October might be a good time to avoid the high season of travelers but I would like to incorporate the "great migration" which I believe occurs in December. My girl friend did both in December a few years back. What would the Kili hike conditions be in December (pros & cons) for the Machame Route. PS I am traveling solo as well.

Hi, December is not a bad month. It can see more snow at the summit, but in general you should get relatively good conditions. October usually has better conditions though. For the Wildebeest, see here for a migration map: https://www.climbkilimanjaroguide.com/wildebeest-migration/

Hi. We are planning to hike next summer with our 12-year-old daughter. We are getting mixed opinions on the route we should take. Rongai is highly recommended for children by one company followed by Lemosho which they state is a bit more challenging. However, a second company is recommending the Shira route. Any suggestions on routes for hiking with minors?

Hi Lyn, I would go with either the Lemosho (8-day) or the Rongai (7-day). I wouldn’t do the Shira (this is basically the same as the Lemosho but with a higher starting point).

Hiking the Salkantay Trail in 2024 – What You Need to Know

Often hailed as an alternative to the Classic Inca Trail route , the Classic Salkantay Trail promises to whisk you off the beaten path and into the true wilds of the Cordillera de Vilcabamba mountain range around Machu Picchu. It’s a route that’s sure to be an adventure of a lifetime. As you climb to 15,090 feet (4,600 meters) above sea level, there are ice-capped summits, glimmering alpine lakes, and untrodden valleys filled with rare vicuña herds. 

Tempted? Of course you are. This guide delves into all the details of planning and completing the Classic Salkantay trek. Plus, it’ll also cover a the Hidden Valley Salkantay Trail option – a great alternative to the Classic trek. This guide will have you reaching for the passport and purchasing a new pair of hiking boots in no time at all.

About the Salkantay Trail

The Classic Salkantay Trail is a popular trekking route connecting the ancient capital of the Incas at Cusco to the jaw-dropping wonder of Machu Picchu. The Classic Salkantay trek is 46 miles in length and reaches a maximum elevation of 15,090 feet (4,600 meters) at the Classic Salkantay Pass. The entire Classic Salkantay trek is usually completed in four to six days, but there are extensions that can turn the adventure into a mega eight-day odyssey through the Peruvian Andes if you’d like. 

What’s unique about the Classic Salkantay trek is the remoteness of it all. There’s an average of just 50-100 trekkers on the Classic Salkantay trek on any given day. Couple that with the places you go, from the crystal-clear waters of Humantay Lake to the zig-zagging paths through the deserted Huaracmachay valley. It’s one for those keen on experiencing the more untamed side of South America.

The History of the Classic Salkantay Trail 

The Classic Salkantay Trail is known for its beautiful natural environment and breathtaking landscapes. In addition, you encounter a bit of Incan history along the way. On your journey you will be able to explore the treasured Llactapata ruins. They offer a raw glimpse of what the Incan settlements of the Urubamba Valley really would have looked like. 

The Classic Salkantay Trail also links up with the town of Aguas Calientes. Aguas Calientes sits at the base of Machu Picchu and is the resting place for the tens of thousands of people who visit the ancient Inca citadel each and every year. Most people complete the Classic Salkantay trek with an early-morning ascent to Machu Picchu, which is one of the most popular bucket-list travel destinations in the world. 

What’s more, the mountain of Salkantay itself holds a deep importance in the universe of the Incas. It was thought that the soaring summit was the home of spiritual beings known as Apu , which controlled the weather, herded the wild beasts, and kept watch over settlements like Machu Picchu.

Getting to Machu Picchu

The best way to get to Machu Picchu from the trail route is the five-day Classic Salkantay trail to Aguas Calientes. The route starts at Mollepata and will take you to two famous Inca sites: Llactapata and Machu Picchu. When you reach Hydroelectric Power Station you can either take a short 20-minute train ride to downtown Aguas Calientes or walk approximately one hour to the village center.  The Classic Salkantay Trail is a challenging hike with large variations in altitude and climate – from cloud forest to lush jungle. However, the views are spectacular.

The Best Time to Hike the Classic Salkantay Trail

You can trek the Classic Salkantay trail all year around, but we recommend hiking it in the drier months from April to December. The days are warm, around 62°F (17°C), and cooler at night and in the early mornings around 40°F (5°C).  This path is all about the views of the snow-capped mountains and the verdant valleys that spread through the Andes below, and you’re far more likely to enjoy them without a cloud in sight in the drier months, April through December.

An Overview of the Trek

The Classic Salkantay Trek is 5 days, 4 nights long and we have outlined below the key daily site visits and stops along the trail. 

Classic Salkantay Trek

Day 1 – Cusco / Mollepate / Soraypampa / Salkantaypampa

Day 2 – Salkantaypampa / Soyrococha / Abra Salkantay, El Passo / Huaracmachay / Colpapampa

Day 3 –  Collpapampa / Lucmabamba

Day 4 –  Lucmabamba / Hidroelectrica / Machu Picchu Village

Day 5 – Machu Picchu Village / Machu Picchu / Cusco

Altitude Considerations on the Classic Salkantay Trail 

The Classic Salkantay Trail is one of the higher multi-day trekking options in the region of Machu Picchu. While the Classic Inca Trail route manages a top point of 13,828 feet (4,215 meters) at Dead Woman’s Pass , the Classic  Salkantay Pass elevation is a cloud-splintering 15,090 feet (4,600 meters). What’s more, many of the campsites you stay at along the way are over 6,500 feet (1,981 meters) high. 

It’s a good idea to spend at least two to three days in Cusco before you embark on the trail after flying in from Lima or direct from abroad. That should allow for enough acclimatization to get through the initial two-day push up to Salkantay Pass. After that, the trek descends into more lush and lower-altitude terrain.

Classic Salkantay Trek vs the Classic Inca Trail 

While both trails offer an amazing opportunity to hike some of the most beautiful mountain on the planet as well as experience incredible history, the Classic Salkantay Trail could be a nice alternative depending on the type of trek you are looking for. If you are looking for a more rigorous challenge with higher elevation, then the Classic Salkantay Trail is the trail for you.  The Salkantay Trail is also a good option if you are looking to trek on specific dates, and you find that the permits for the Classic Inca Trail route are already booked. 

Additionally, on the Classic Inca Trail your only option is to sleep in tent camps each night compared to on the Classic Salkantay Trail where you can either stay in tent camps or choose to sleep lodges as well.

The Classic Salkantay Trail is similar to its iconic compadre, the Classic Inca Trail. However, it’s the far more challenging of the two. For starters, it’s almost double the length and takes you more than 1,262 feet (384 meters) higher. The terrain is also considerably more advanced, with much of the walking through more-remote valleys, making for extraordinary views.

Hidden Valley Salkantay Trail Route

Another option for trekkers is to do the Hidden Valley Salkantay Trail option, which is a slight variation on the Classic Salkantay Route. It swaps out the busier paths that weave up the valley from Mollepata for something a little more rustic, more local. Treks begin in the untrodden foothills of the Cusco Andes north of Limatambo, a little to the east of the traditional start point. There, you’ll climb through lush fruit farms tended by local people to higher plateaus that have been used to grow potatoes since ancient times.

The second day of the Hidden Valley trek is the hardest of the lot. You’ll enter the domain of the Andean condor as you gain altitude and conquer the Tocto Pass at a whopping 16,000 feet (4,877 meters) above sea level. There’s a real pinch yourself moment here, as you watch the mighty massif of Apu Salkantay, the holy mountain, come into full view, its avalanche-scarred sides cascading off a gleaming glacier.

The Hidden Valley variation has become increasingly our preferred route for guests in recent years as the classic Salkantay route has gotten busier and busier. We see it as a great choice for trekkers most interested in getting a feel for the human history and culture of the region and a raw sense of the sublime nature of the Andes, all without the booming crowds.

However, no matter what trek you end up deciding to do, it will be an adventure to remember. On the Classic Inca Trail route, you will immerse yourself in the world of the Incan Empire, on millennia-old pa ths. On the Classic Salkantay Trail, you will be walking am ongst the snow-capped peaks and the cloud forests of the mighty Andes mountain. On the Hidden Valley Salkantay Trail, you will experience the authentic local history and culture while basking in the raw beauty of the Andes without the large crowds. You cannot go wrong with any of the options, and there is no doubt you will have an extraordinary experience. Lastly, there is always the option to extend your trip and explore multiple treks, check out our Complete Guide t o Hiking the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu for some inspiration!

If you have any questions on either the Salkantay Trail or The Classic Inca Trail you can contact me HERE !

I hope to see you on the trail!

Jeff Bonaldi Founder & CEO The Explorer’s Passage

About Jeff Bonaldi

Jeff Bonaldi is the Founder and CEO of The Explorer’s Passage, a premier adventure travel company. His mission is to provide travelers with the opportunity to transform their lives and the planet through the power of adventure.

Learn more about Jeff’s story and his company HERE .

Share This Amazing Location!

Related posts.

Expert Guide to Solo Travel & Top Destinations in 2024

Everest Base Camp Trek – 13 Things to Know for Your Trip in 2024

14 Best Places to Visit in Iceland in 2024

19 Things to Know Before Hiking the W Trek in Patagonia’s Torres del Paine in 2024

14 Things to Know Before You Climb Mount Kilimanjaro in 2024

The Ultimate Guide to Inca Trail Permits for 2024

Ultimate Guide to the Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu

The 5 day Salkantay Trek is one of the best alternative trails to Machu Picchu in Peru.

It takes you to stunning glacier lakes and across snow-capped mountain passes. Along the way, you’ll enter cloud forests, walk ancient Inca pathways, and reach Peru’s most famous landmark, Machu Picchu.

I did the Salkantay Trek in July 2023 and was blown away by its beauty.

Yes, it’s a challenging hike. But it’s also incredibly rewarding.

Here’s everything you need to know about the Salkantay Trek, including what to expect along the way and how hard it is. I also share why I chose the Salkantay Trek vs Inca Trail and whether it was really worth it.

Quick Navigation

Salkantay Trek overview

• Total distance: 74 km
• Time needed: 5 days (the 5th day is at Machu Picchu)
• Highest point: 4,630 m at the Salkantay Pass
• Difficulty: Challenging
• Starting point: Cusco

What is the Salkantay Trek

The classic Salkantay Trek is a 5 day hike to Machu Picchu. Named after the Salkantay Mountain, it’s one of the most scenic trails through the Peruvian Andes.

It’s easily accessible from Cusco (I recommend staying here in Cusco before the trek), but the trailhead officially starts in Soraypampa, a 3-hour drive away.

The Salkantay Trek lies in the shadow of the more famous Inca Trail. But the two offer a very different experience.

Salkantay Trek vs Inca Trail

The Salkantay Trek is a popular alternative hike to Machu Picchu.

Below are a few differences and why I chose to hike the Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu (instead of the Inca Trail).

1. The scenery & archaeology

The Salkantay Trek is said to be the most beautiful of the two hikes. It takes you over the mountains and crosses diverse landscapes.

It’s also a higher altitude trek that reaches 4,630 m above sea level. However, you only see ruins and authentic Inca pathways on day 4 of the Salkantay Trek.

2. Tour costs & availability

There are no restrictions to the number of hikers on the Salkantay Trek. This makes it a great option for travelers who don’t have fixed dates yet or who missed out on the Inca Trail.

3. Difficulty

The Salkantay Trek is known to be harder than the Inca Trail.

This is due to the higher elevation, the challenging mountain terrain, and the total walking distance, which is 74 km on the Salkantay Trail vs 42 km on the Inca Trail.

4. Arrival at Machu Picchu

The Salkantay Trek does not actually end at Machu Picchu. Instead, you finish in Aguas Calientes, the closest town to Machu Picchu.

Your last night is at a hotel in this town, and you’ll visit Machu Picchu the next day. You can either take a bus or walk to the main entrance. But regardless, you’ll be joined by every tourist going to the famous site.

With the Inca Trail, you follow the Inca’s route to the iconic Sun Gate before hiking down to the lost city of Machu Picchu.

But there’s a lot more to consider when deciding which to choose. I recommend reading my blog post comparing the Inca Trail to the Salkantay trek.

How long is the Salkantay Trek

There are two options for doing the Salkantay Trek: a 5 day tour or a 4 day tour.

With both of these, you’ll spend the last day exploring Machu Picchu.

5 day Salkantay Trek

The most popular Salkantay Trek itinerary is a 5 day, 4 night hike. I chose this option and recommend you do the same.

This classic route takes you to all the iconic locations, including Humantay Lake, Salkantay Pass, and Llactapata Ruins.

During the 5 day Salkantay Trek, you walk the entire journey from the starting point in Soraypampa to Aguas Calientes town.

Top tip: From my experience, day 4 of the 5 day trek was extremely difficult but 100% worth it. This is the section you’ll miss if you do the 4 day tour. It’s the only day you actually walk parts of the Inca Trail, and the views from Llactapata are incredible.

4 day Salkantay Trek

If you’re short on time, you can opt for the 4 day tour instead.

This is not the ideal option, but it’s still a fantastic tour if you don’t have much time in Peru.

Like the 5 day Salkantay Trek, the 4 day tour starts in Soraypampa and ends at Aguas Calientes.

So what’s the difference?

On day 3, you’ll walk most of the Salkantay Trail. At lunchtime, you’ll separate from the 5 day tour and take a bus to Hidroelectrica Train Station. From here, you’ll walk to Aguas Calientes.

This means you skip the Cocalmayo Hot Springs as well as the hike to Llactapata Ruins.

Things to know about the 5 Day Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu

Here are a few things to consider if you’re planning on doing the Salkantay Trek.

Salkantay trek difficulty

The Salkantay trail is a difficult hike, but it’s achievable for most people.

So, what makes it difficult?

Firstly, the high altitude at the Salkantay Pass, which sits at 4,630 m.

The ascent up the pass is the hardest part of the trek. This is because there’s less oxygen in the air, and it’s a struggle to breathe.

As a result, you’ll walk very slowly, and you may experience symptoms of altitude sickness. The freezing cold temperatures don’t make it any easier.

Secondly, it’s a long distance to walk.

The Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu is a 74 km trail, and you’re averaging 19 km per day over 4 days (because the last day is at Machu Picchu).

This, combined with the hilly terrain, only adds to its difficulty.

Here’s my post on how difficult the Salkantay Trek really is . It covers everything you need to know to get through the 5 day trek.

Best time to hike the Salkantay Trek

It’s possible to do the Salkantay Trek all year round.

But most tour operators don’t offer tours in February. This is because the route is often closed due to maintenance.

Here’s when you should plan your trip.

Dry Season: Best time to do the Salkantay Trail

Hiking season in Peru is from April to September.

During this time, you can expect clear skies and warmer temperatures. It’s a great time of year to be on the trails, and I recommend doing the Salkantay Trek during these months.

July and August is high season and the busiest time to visit Peru. The trails will be teeming with people, and Machu Picchu will be extremely crowded.

However, don’t be put off by this.

I did the Salkantay Trek in July and had a great time. But make sure you get to Machu Picchu early in the day to avoid the crowds.

Rainy Season

The wet season is from December to March. The weather can be unpredictable during this time, and you should be prepared for a few days of rain.

This makes the Salkantay Trek more dangerous, especially as you go up the Salkantay Pass. There is also a greater chance of last-minute cancellations due to bad weather.

Packing for the Salkantay Trek

The most important thing to pack for the Salkantay Trek is your Passport. You need this to enter Machu Picchu and will not be allowed in without it.

In terms of hiking gear, most tour companies provide a small duffel bag to trekkers.

This will allow you to store up to 7 kg of your clothing and personal items for the trek.

Yes – there’s a 7kg weight limit, which includes you’re sleeping bag. This is not a lot, considering it’s a 5 day trek, so you need to pack lightly and smartly.

Accommodation along the Salkantay Trek

The accommodation along the Salkantay Trek differs between tour operators.

This ranges from basic and luxury camping to glass domes and cabins. Your last night is spent at a hotel in Aguas Calientes.

For most tours, there are no showers on the first night. But from night two onwards, you can treat yourself to magnificent hot showers.

My mom and I did the Salkantay Trek with Inkayni Peru Tours , and I highly recommend them.

We camped for the first three nights, but it was more like a glamping experience, and we were extremely comfortable.

Each day, we arrived at our campsite with our tents already set up and offered snacks and hot chocolate as a reward for getting through the day.

One positive about camping is that you have the option of staying higher up the Salkantay Pass on night one. This was a huge advantage as we got a head start to the day and had the Salkantay Pass all to ourselves for sunrise the next morning.

Salkantay Trek highlights

If I haven’t convinced you to do the Salkantay Trek, this next part will!

Here are some of the highlights – most of which you won’t experience on the Inca Trail.

Humantay Lake

The first day of the Salkantay Trek starts with a bang!

After driving a few hours from Cusco, you’ll be dropped off at the trailhead in Soraypampa. Shortly after, the uphill hike to Humantay Lake begins.

Humantay Lake is a stunning turquoise glacier lake that sits at 4,200 m.

It’s a popular day trip from Cusco, so this part of the trek will be busy. But after returning from the lake, you’ll have the trail to yourself.

Salkantay Pass

With an elevation of 4,630 m, the Salkantay Pass is the highest point of the Salkantay Trek.

Getting to the pass takes a lot of mental and physical energy. But standing at the top and looking on to Salkantay Mountain is a feeling you’ll never forget.

From here, the trek only gets easier (well, until day 4) .

Cocalmayo Hot Springs

On the third day, you’ll reach your campsite at lunchtime. This gives you a free afternoon to explore the nearby attractions.

You can either visit the Cocalmayo Hot Springs or do a coffee tour. There’s even zip-lining!

I visited the Cocalmayo Hot Springs, and it’s just what my body needed.

There are four natural pools here with water of varying temperatures. We spent an hour relaxing in them, and it was a great break from the long trekking days.

Outside the hot springs, you’ll find kiosks selling refreshments and snacks.

Most people doing the Salkantay Trek congregate here, and it’s a great place to enjoy a few beers and meet other hikers.

I nearly didn’t visit these hot springs because of what other people said.

Yes, the water isn’t boiling hot.

Yes, it can get crowded on weekends.

But after three days of hiking the Salkantay Trek, your body will not care!

You’ll love the warm waters and will want to sit back and relax.

Llactapata archeological site

Llactapata is an important archaeological site near Machu Picchu. It’s less explored than other Inca sites and offers unspoiled views of Huayna Picchu Mountain.

To get to Llactapata, you follow the same trail the Incas did. This is the only part of the Salkantay Trek that includes the Inca route.

It’s a strenuous uphill hike from Lucmabamba to Llactapata. After exploring the site, you’ll descend the other side of the mountain, which is equally as challenging.

If you do the 4 day Salkantay Trek, you will skip this section of the trail.

Machu Picchu: The Highlight of The Salkantay Trail

And finally, the most iconic site on the 5 day Salkantay Trek: Machu Picchu.

This wonder of the world completely blew me away. I had heard so much about Machu Picchu and thought it might be overrated.

But I can confirm that it is not!

Machu Picchu is a fascinating place, and our exceptional guide, Percy, played a big part in my experience of visiting it.

Over the past 5 days on the Salkantay Trek, Percy had taken us on this incredible journey through time and nature that culminated with the history of Machu Picchu.

He shared stories of Pachamama (mother nature), the Incas, their mystery, and Peruvian culture.

His passion for his country and its people was one of the most beautiful things, and I learned so much from him.

You can visit Machu Picchu without a guide, but you’ll be missing out on so much.

Salkantay Trek itinerary

Below is an outline of the itinerary we followed.

• Day 1: Cusco – Soraypampa – Humantay Lake – Soyroccocha
• Day 2: Soyroccocha – Salkantay Pass – Wayraqmachay – Chaullay
• Day 3: Chaullay – Lucmabamba – Cocalmayo Hot Springs – Lucmabamba
• Day 4: Lucmabamba – Llactapata – Hidroelectrica – Aguas Calientes
• Day 5: Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu – Aguas Calientes – Ollantaytambo – Cusco

Salkantay trekking tours

I booked my Salkantay Trek tour through Inkayni Peru Tours after reading all these positive reviews , and they were fantastic.

Inkayni is a local tour operator specializing in smaller group tours and personalized services. And that’s exactly what I got.

I did the Salkantay Trek with my mom, who is in her 60s. It was a tough hike for both of us, but we made it to the end – and I have no doubt that you will too.

Our guide was patient and kind and offered all the support and encouragement we needed.

Inkayni took care of absolutely everything for us, from the Machu Picchu entrance ticket to the scenic train ride.

This was a special mother/daughter trip that was made extra special thanks to the team at Inkayni Peru Tours.

Other Salkantay Trek tours

Unlike the Inca Trail, the Salkantay Trek doesn’t need to be booked months in advance.

You can arrive in Cusco and book a tour for the next day. That’s how easy it is.

But I do not recommend this.

Every tour offers a different experience and itinerary. So don’t book with the first operator you come across.

If you’re worried about your fitness levels and the high altitude. Or if you’re questioning whether you will be able to finish the hike, I recommend opting for a smaller group tour like the one I did with Inkayni. You’ll enjoy the experience a lot more as you won’t feel rushed or pressured to walk faster.

Some Salkantay tours cater specifically to backpackers. This means you’ll be one of eighteen people in your group, the food won’t be anything to write home about, and you will have less one-on-one time with your guide.

If you’re doing the Salkantay Trek on a budget, this might be your best option.

Do your research

But I cannot stress the importance of researching before booking your tour.

I met a few travelers along the route who complained nonstop about the quality of their food and camping gear provided by their tour company. They also moaned that their guide’s English was not perfect.

I soon realized that they had paid next to nothing for their tour. I’m surprised they were even given food!

I don’t know how their guides and porters are expected to live off that measly amount, and I felt sorry for their trekking team.

If you’re paying for the cheapest tour, you cannot expect a five-star experience. I understand that not everyone has the budget, but you need to be realistic about what you’ll get from a cheaper operator.

Tips for the 5 day Salkantay Trek

• Check whether your tour includes Machu Picchu entrance tickets. If not, book this in advance and choose Circuit 2.
• Spend at least two nights in Cusco to acclimatize to the higher altitude.
• Rent hiking poles, as there are a lot of uphill and downhill sections.
• Tip your trekking team at least 10% of your total tour cost. While tipping is not mandatory, it is expected and means the world to the team.

How long does it take to hike the Salkantay Trek?

The classic Salkantay Trek is 5 days and covers a distance of 74 km. Trekking time is 6 to 7 hours per day, except on the last day when you’re exploring Machu Picchu.

Is the Salkantay Trek worth it?

Yes! The Salkantay Trek is a magnificent trek through the Peruvian Andes to Machu Picchu.

Is the Salkantay Trek harder than the Inca Trail?

The Salkantay Trek is harder than the Inca Trail as it is a much further hike and reaches a high altitude on day two.

Is the Salkantay Trek dangerous?

No, the Salkantay Trek isn’t dangerous. But you need to acclimatize properly to ensure you don’t get altitude sickness as you ascend the Salkantay Pass.

What’s the difference between 4 and 5 day Salkantay Trek?

On the 4 day Salkantay Trek, you take a bus to Hidroelectrica instead of walking. This means you skip Llactapata, which is an archaeological site overlooking Huayna Picchu Mountain.

My Salkantay Trek review

I loved the 5 day Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu.

It has everything you want from a multiday trek. Beautiful scenery where you’re immersed in nature. Challenging sections that will push you to your limits. Incredible archaeological sites that take you back in time. What more do you want?

The Salkantay Trek was one of the best things I did in Peru, and I highly recommend adding it to your itinerary.

Like it? Pin it!

Do you have any questions about the 5 day Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu? Drop me a message in the comments section below!

Looking for more Peru travel inspiration? Check out my other posts!

• The Best Place to Visit the Amazon in Peru
• Laguna 69: Guide to The Best Day Hike in Peru
• How to Get to Laguna Paron in Huaraz
• Ultimate Guide to Laguna Llaca in Huaraz

Hi, I'm Carryn. I’m an adventure travel blogger trying to figure out my way through life by traveling and exploring. Join me as I share my travel guides and tips for life abroad. Find out more about me here .

Salkantay Trek Packing List: 60+ Things you need to pack

Ultimate guide to maipu, mendoza: wineries, restaurants & more, leave a comment cancel reply.

• Destinations
• Travel advice

The complete guide for the Salkantay trek

• July 15, 2022

Table of Contents

From Cusco, you can start several multi-day hikes to Machu Picchu. The Salkantay Trek is the most diverse hike you can do. During the Salkantay trek 5 days you cross different climate zones (from tropical to icy peaks), these are intensive days where you can enjoy the Peruvian hospitality, the beautiful mountain villages, and arrival at Machu Picchu at sunrise.

The Salkantay trekking in Peru is one of the most impressive things you can do during your trip to Peru. We are sure you will be amazed by the scenery from day one. The Salkantay trek is not an easy hike, preparation is essential. In this article, you read everything you need to know about the hike, how to prepare yourself, what to expect, where you should book the hike, and many more tips.

Salkantay trek general information

Before we get into details of what you need to know about the Salkantay trail, here are some quick facts about the trek.

• Location | Peru
• Hike duration | 5 days
• Start | Cusco
• End | Machu Picchu
• Distance | 74 km / 46 miles
• Highest point of the Salkantay trek: 4630 meter
• Highest point of the mountain the Salkantay: 6271 meter

5 days Salkantay trek itinerary

The 5 day Salkantay trek to Machu Picchu gives you the chance to get back to nature, as you walk for hours every day in an impressive area without having to share it with many other travelers. The Salkantay trek is one of the quietest trails in Peru that you can do. The beauty of the Salkantay trekking and Inca trail is that you follow in the footsteps of the Incas to eventually reach Machu Picchu. The views you have during the Salkantay trek are magnificent.

We did this Salkantay trekking tour, which we recommend . Later in this article, you can read why we recommend a tour. The Salkantay trek 5 days itinerary looks like this:

Salkantay trek day 1 : Cusco – Mollepata – Soraypampa | 13 km / 6 hours

The first day is long, as you will be picked up very early in the morning from your accommodation and travel by minivan to Mollepata. Here you will get to know the guide, cook, and the cowboy who takes care of all the stuff (he uses donkeys for this).

Mollepata is located at 2900 meters above sea level, making it important to start slowly. This day you will hike 13 km to an altitude of 4200 meters. This makes the first day tough because you have to get used to the hike and the altitude.

The hike from Mollepata to Soraypampa is a nice walk that goes up evenly. During this part, you walk in open fields which give you beautiful views. Once you have arrived at Soraypampa you can have lunch. After lunch, the hardest part of the first day begins, the hike to Humantay Lake. In this small part, you have to ascend 300 meters. Once you arrive at Humantay Lake, you cannot believe that such a beautiful lake is located here. Together with the guide, you will do a typical Inca ritual in which you will stack stones and ask Pachamama (mother earth) for a prosperous journey.

After Humantay Lake you will walk back to Soraypampa and enjoy dinner and rest in the evening. In the evening it can be cold here because you stay high in the mountains. So dress well.

Salkantay trek day 2 : Soraypampa – Salkantay pass – Huayramachay – Collpapampa | 24 km / 10 hours

The second day is the hardest. With stiff legs, you will walk through the Salkantay pass early in the morning from Soraypampa to eventually arrive at Pra Salkantay, which is the highest point with 4630 meters. You have to ascend about 720 meters this day.

The walk starts at Soraypampa at an altitude of 3900 and you have to walk up a winding path to the first point at Soirococha which is at an altitude of 4400 meters. The best thing about this part is that you can look over the entire valley, it is amazing to see all the snow-capped mountains.

Tip: if you think this part is too difficult, you can use a donkey that will take you from Soraypampa to Soirococha.

Once you arrive at Soirococha you have to walk steeply up to Pra Salkantay. This part is heavy! Walk at your own pace and do not deviate from this. At Pra Salkantay, of course, you have to take a picture to record that you did it.

After this the Salkantay tour becomes a lot easier, you will now descend for 2 hours and you will arrive at a camp where you can enjoy a well-deserved lunch. After lunch, you continue to the Amazon jungle and walk through a cloud forest. Your stop is at Collpapampa.

Salkantay trek day 3 : Collpapampa – La Playa – Santa Teresa | 14 km / 4 hours

The third day is the easiest. After breakfast, you will walk to La Playa. The walk goes through the Santa Teresa valley, this is a great hike because you can see several waterfalls and different plant pieces.

Once you arrive at La Playa, you can visit several plantations where they grow coffee, bananas, and avocados. You can also taste local coffee here.

From La Playa, you will travel to Santa Teresa where you will stay. You can choose to be brought by van or you can walk, of course, the choice is yours. This day is not difficult at all but it is beautiful because of the completely different natural landscape you see.

Salkantay trek day 4 : Santa Teresa – Hidroelectryc – Aguas Calientes | 19 km / 6 hours

The fourth day is a lot of fun because in the morning you can choose to go zip line or visit a hot spring. We chose the hot spring because it is wonderful to relax the muscles. This day is not hard, you have to walk a lot of kilometers, only most of it is flat.

After this, you continue your journey towards Hidroelectrica. This is a beautiful area where you walk past waterfalls and see many fields where they grow cocoa and coffee. Once you have crossed the river you walk along the river towards Aguas Calientes. Aguas Calientes is the village near Machu Picchu from where you can visit the lost city.

You will arrive in Aguas Calientes in the afternoon, after which you will have free time to discover the village or relax. You mustn’t go to bed too late after dinner because the next day you have to get up early to visit Machu Picchu.

Salkantay trek day 5 : Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu – Ollantaytambo – Cusco | 4 km / 1.5 hours

Today the day starts very early because you have to leave your hotel at 04:00 am to join the queue at the bridge at 04:30 am. When the bridge opens, the first travelers can walk up the mountain. This will get you to Machu Picchu at sunrise around 06:00 am, making you one of the first visitors. It is impossible to describe how cool this was, believe us this is a unique experience.

The guide will give you a tour and tell you everything about Machu Picchu. You will visit the palaces, temples, priest houses and other important buildings. It is amazing to see how well everything has been preserved.

After the tour, you will have time to explore Machu Picchu independently. What you will notice is that it is later in the morning, which makes it a lot busier.

After Machu Picchu, you walk back to Aguas Calientes to pack your bag at your hotel and catch the train to Ollantaytambo in the afternoon. At Ollantaytambo, you will be picked up by a minivan that will take you back to your hotel in Cusco.

As you have read, the Salkantay trek of 5 days is very diverse and super cool. We have so many beautiful memories of this trek and recommend this trekking to everyone because this is a trip that will stay with you for a lifetime! If you want to be sure of a spot, you can book the tour that we have done .

Salkantay trek tour or Salkantay trek solo

Normally we recommend to do activities independently where possible. In the case of the Salkantay trek, we recommend doing this with a tour. Read our motivation below.

Hiking Salkantay trek with a group

We are used to traveling alone and determine our own planning for the day. The idea that we were going to do a trek of 5 days with a fixed group, with a fixed timetable, was new for us. The big question that we had was if we were doing the right thing. It turned out to be the best time ever.

If you walk with a group, you walk with a local who knows everything and prepared everything in perfection. They know the way and can offer immediate assistance where necessary. For us, it was important to walk with a group because we were going to walk at high altitudes for the first time so we wanted to have an expert who could see altitude sickness symptoms. Also, they can share information about the environment that you otherwise miss.

In our group, we were with 6 travelers, 1 guide, 2 cooks, and 1 porter (carried the cooking equipment, tents, and other necessities with the help of the donkeys). If you do the same tour as us, the group is small, which makes it great. At some organizations, they walk with 40 people with only 2 guides. We don’t like to walk in such big groups, in our opinion, it makes the whole experience a lot less special.

• Simple, because everything is arranged (tickets to Machu Picchu, accommodations, food, drinks). All you need to bring are your own necessities (more information at chapter what to bring with you for the Salkantay trek);
• Traveling with a well-known organization means that your guides and porters are specialists who know the route well. Above all, they know what to do if things go wrong. After all, they are responsible for your safety;
• A local guide can always tell you first-hand experiences;
• The carriers ensure that you only have to carry a backpack and nothing else. You don’t have to carry your tent, mat, and other heavy gear;
• You meet new people who become your friends.
• It is more expensive compared to doing it independently. For us, the additional cost was more than worth it;
• If you are used to doing everything at your own pace and schedule, traveling with a group can take some time getting used to.

Hiking Salkantay trek solo

It is not uncommon to do the Salkantay trek individually, however, you don’t see a lot of other people doing it individually. Most of the people do it via a group tour.

• The freedom to go wherever you want;
• Often a lot cheaper than a tour.
• You have to carry everything yourself, arrange your accommodation, determine your own route, arrange all your entrances. You have to arrange everything yourself;
• You don’t have an experienced guide with you who can help you in case of an emergency;
• It is always safer to walk in a group than alone;
• For female travelers, we don’t recommend walking alone.

Which Salkantay trek tour do we recommend

There are a lot of agencies that offer the Salkantay trek, which makes it very difficult to choose from. We have searched a lot for the best offer and found it (believe us it took a lot of time!).

When we went to find out our Salkantay trek, we mainly checked whether it was authentic. During our trip, we walked with 6 people the whole trek. For us this is authentic. Believe us, if you see those groups that run with 30 people, you don’t want this. It is also important that everything is well organized, that you don’t encounter any surprises. Finally, the organization needs to be professional and have excellent experience in the trek.

We have all experienced this in a very positive way with our tour and therefore recommend it. In addition, the tour is provided by GetYourGuide, which guarantees high quality. In this case, it is better to pay a little more than buy a ticket locally without knowing exactly what you will get. This will save you a few hours of searching😊.

To clarify for booking : if you want to book the same tour as us, you will be forwarded to the GetYourGuide site. The tour shown first in blue is the tour we recommend.

How difficult is the salkantay trek

In our opinion, the Salkantay trek is not difficult. It is not necessary to have an excellent fitness level, but a basic fitness is required. Because of this, we recommend that you do some extra training at home before the trip. The first two days can be tough, but after that, it’s not hard.

In general, the days are long but not killing. You have enough rest times and a long lunch break. During the evening you have enough time to relax. In the evenings you eat with the group and chat all evening. For us, this was also a very nice part of the trip because you will get to know the people well and can eventually become friends.

Our advice is to build up a fitness level a month before you travel in which you are used to walking for a few hours. The most important tip that we can give is that you do your trip through Peru in the same direction as we did. You find our Peru itinerary here. To prepare yourself physically, it is best to do the Salkantay trek at the end of your trip. As a result, you are used to walk at heights and your legs are also used to walking the meters.

Salkantay trek altitude sickness

Even if you are in top condition, if you exercise daily, this still hasn’t any influence on lowering the risk of altitude sickness. Altitude sickness can affect anyone, regardless of your fitness level. It is therefore important to acclimatize because once you go beyond 3000 meters you will feel it.

The best thing to do is to follow our Peru itinerary . This gradually gets your body used to the height. If you travel from Lima to Cusco and immediately start the Salkantay Trek, you will challenge your body extremely and expose yourself to a high risk of altitude sickness. We speak from experience because in our group were two travelers who did this and had a lot of problems with the altitude throughout the trip.

If you follow our advice, you do the Salkantay trek at the end of your trip, you should be fine. You mustn’t go too fast, take a rest if needed and drink a lot of water.

Where do you stay during the Salkantay trek

The overnight stays during the Salkantay are more than fine. If you are doing an organized tour like us, you don’t have to worry about this. During our trip, we saw different accommodations and recommend the following.

The sleeping facilities during the Salkantay are more than fine. If you do an organized tour like us, you don’t have to worry about this. You stay the first three nights in a tent as you can see in the photo below. The last night you stay in Aguas Calientes is an excellent hotel.

If you want to do the Salkantay trek independently, you can use the accommodations below.

• Day 1 | Soraypampa | camping area (S.10 / $2 per tent) | reservation not necessary/possible
• Day 2 | Chaullay | camping area (S.10 / $2 per tent) | reservation not necessary/possible
• Day 3 | Santa Teresa | camping area (S.10 / $2 per tent) | reservation not necessary/possible
• Day 4 | Aguas Calientes | no camping, only hostels/hotels | Andino Hotel | If you want luxury and want to have a good rest before hiking to Machu Picchu, Casa del Sol Machu Picchu is recommended
• Day 5 | Cusco | Amaru Inca & Illa hotel

What do you need to bring with you for the Salkantay trek

The Salkantay trek is a trekking tour where you pass the 4 seasons. One day you wear a T-shirt and shorts and it is incredibly hot, the next day you wear all your clothes because you are high in the mountains near the snow.

The fact that you walk through all 4 seasons is great, it ensures a different experience and challenges your body. Before the day starts, ask what the guide expects in terms of weather so that you dress well and don’t have to change during the tour.

Only bring what you really need. You really shouldn’t carry more than 10kg on your back. The lighter your bag, the more enjoyable the trip. In terms of clothing, it is important to wear layers instead of very heavy clothing.

We recommend the following Salkantay trek packings list:

• Backpack with rain cover
• Waterproof shoes
• 5 pairs of underwear and 3 pairs of socks
• Hiking pants
• Fleece jacket
• Thermal undershirt
• Thermal pants
• Jacket North Face (you really need this!)
• Gore-Tex Jacket
• Waterproof pants
• 1 Hat, 1 Bandana
• 1 pair of walking sticks
• Personal hygiene products
• First-aid kit
• 2 Water bottles or empty bottles
• Money + snacks (the food is very good during the tour, but sometimes it is nice to have a snack)

If you do the Salkantay trek solo, you should also bring a tent, sleeping bag and mattress in addition to the above.

Best time to do the Salkantay trek

Cusco has two seasons, the dry season and the rainy season. The dry season is from April to October. The rainy season is from November to March. The rainy season is the worst time for hiking the Salkantay trek.

The best months to hike the Salkantay trek is during the dry season between April and October with July and August being the best. It does not rain much and the temperatures are pleasant. July and August are busier due to the summer holidays in Europe and the US. We did the Salkantay trek ourselves in the first week of September and the weather was perfect.

Travel insurance

World Nomads travel insurance policies offer coverage for more than 150 activities. Get a quote, make a claim, or buy or extend your policy while on the road.

Salkantay trek FAQ

1. why should you do the salkantay trek.

The number 1 reason for us to walk the Salkantay trek was the environment you are in. You walk for 5 days in very different environments. In other trekking tours the hike to Machu Picchu, the environment often remains the same which can become monotonous. This isn’t the case with the Salkantay trek at all.

With every step, the landscape changes, and the mountains reveal something new; rolling clouds, the breathtaking terrain, the towering mountains, or the smiling locals.

Walking in the area during the Salkantay trek has something magical. All you have to do is to walk and to enjoy yourself. You don’t have any stress and there aren’t many things that you have to think about during your walk. Just enjoy the walk. Great right?

2. Salkantay Trek vs Inca Trail, which one is better?

One of the most frequently asked questions: which route is the best to hike to Machu Picchu? The Salkantay vs Inca trail is often compared with each other and there are advantages for each route. The reason we chose the Salkantay trek was that the environment was different every day, the height meters were better distributed throughout the day and it would be less stressful for your knees.

The Inca trail has many high steps so you put extra stress on your knees. The Inca trail is of course the most famous trail and the trail that the Incas used to walk to hike to Machu Picchu. The cultural experience of the Inca trail is better, that must certainly be said. The disadvantage is that you have to book months in advance because only 500 number (only 200 trekkers) people per day can start the trip.

Salkantay vs Inca trail in terms of cost the Inca trail ($740 – $900) is more expensive compared to the Salkantay trek ($280 – $400). Many travelers who had walked the Inca trail indicated that the environment during the tour remains fairly the same, with the Salkantay trek one day you walk between the snow peaks and the next day in the jungle. This was important to us so we chose to do the Salkantay trek.

If you want to know more about the Salkantay Trek or the Inca trail , you can read more information via the links.

3. What do you need to know before visiting Machu Picchu?

Officially you are not allowed to bring water and food with you. We actually did bring water with us and this was no problem. The rule is that people don’t make a mess. If you treat this with respect, you will probably be fine.

You are not allowed to bring walking sticks. If you have weak knees, it is best to take the bus back from Machu Picchu to Aguas Calientes.

We have written a separate article where we provide much more information about a visit to Machu Picchu. Read the article here: tips for visiting Machu Picchu .

4. I am not a camping type, will I enjoy the Salkantay trek?

The answer is very simple, yes! We don’t see ourselves as campers either, but we enjoyed it. The first three nights you stay in a tent, in a sleeping bag on a mat. The tour we did had gear from North Face which was excellent. This is important because there are also tours that use poor quality gear. This is the difference between a cheaper and a more expensive tour. We and the other members of the group slept well all nights.

You don’t have to carry and set up the stuff yourself, this is done for you. All you have to do is carry your own backpack and enjoy. We understand that the idea of staying in a tent is something that you need getting used to if you never do this, this was the same for us. Try it, because you want to experience this unique travel experience.

We hope this Salkantay trek guide helped you to convince and inform you to do the same tour as us. It has been one of the most beautiful moments for us during our trip and we hope you will experience it as well.

Are you planning your trip to Peru? Then you can use our Peru itinerary as inspiration to build your own itinerary.

After the Salkantay trek and your visit to Machu Picchu, you will probably travel back via Cusco to Lima. Read our article about Lima here: things to do in Lima .

If you are looking for more general information about hiking, we recommend reading our article about hiking for beginners .

We are curious about your experiences, what do you think of the Salkantay trek? Share it in the comments below.

Did you enjoy this article? Then save it to Pinterest for later!

Hello, we are Cynthia & Alexander, the team behind Travel Your Memories! Traveling is our passion. When it comes to exploration, we love sharing our tips and adventures to inspire you. Welcome to Travel Your Memories, where we share our love for travel with you! Read our story .

Follow our adventure

More to discover.

7 Best things to do in Huacachina

Travel guide Cusco | 12 Best things to do in Cusco

The #14 best things to do in Arequipa Peru

#15 Best places to stay in Peru

Perfect Peru itinerary 2 to 3 weeks

The 16 best tips for the Colca Canyon trek

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Let's get social

Follow our adventures, popular places.

• United Kingdom

2024 Travel Your Memories. Website created by Red Pineapple .

Privacy Policy       Sitemap

Privacy Overview

Follow our adventures on instagram.

You are using an outdated browser. Please upgrade your browser or activate Google Chrome Frame to improve your experience.

• Trip Styles
• Destinations

• Trip Destinations
• Peru Hiking Tours
• Guided Hikes to Machu Picchu

Classic Salkantay Trek

Trip highlights.

• New Trip Offering
• Trek Over 15,000' Elevation
• Stunning Trek to Machu Picchu
• Full Tour of Machu Picchu
• View of Glaciated Mt. Salkantay
• Premier Camping Accommodations
• Wonderful Peruvian Cuisine
• Charming Quechua Culture
• Guides Choice Trip

Description

This classic Peru trek will take you through unique and varying landscapes, from cloud forests to grassy highlands and where sub-alpine passes meet colossal snow-capped mountains. This trek is for the adventurous. Since the ancient Incan times, Mount Salkantay has been considered sacred and the protector of the Quechua people. The name Salkantay derives from the Quechua language and means “Savage Mountain”. Mount Salkantay (20,574 feet) is the highest peak in the Vilcabamba mountain range and in the Cusco area of the Southern Peruvian Andes.

The Salkantay trek begins on the south side of Mount Salkantay and Machu Picchu and circumnavigates the mountain and ancient ruin to the town of Agua Calientes. The Salkantay trek contains parts of the original Inca trail and provides mysterious and magical feelings associated with the history of the Inca. This trek is simply Amazing!

Required Acclimatization Days

For guest safety, due to the high elevations of this trek (15,255′), it is required that you acclimatize (at 10,000 feet or greater) for a minimum of 2 nights prior to the trip start date. This can be accomplished simply by arriving in Cusco (11,200′) 2 days prior. Acclimatizing, being well rested, staying hydrated, and eating well are important steps to helping your body adjust to the higher elevations of this trip. Being well adjusted will give you the best opportunity to have a safe and enjoyable trek. If your looking for acclimatization activities, check out our Cusco and Sacred Valley Acclimatization Day Tours.

$2395 Per Person

$65 single supplement.

The single supplement on this trip applies to 1 night of lodging at Tierra Viva Machu Picchu before our day at Machu Picchu. If traveling solo, you will have a tent to yourself the other nights.

DIFFICULTY LEVEL 4

Scale of 1-5. 1 is least difficult; 5 is most difficult

Hiking Distances:

Up to 10 mi

Backpack Weight:

Moderately Rugged

Max Daily Elev. ↑↓:

Up to 3000 ft

Heights Exposure:

Please Note: Terrain, Elevation Gain and Heights Exposure ratings reflect the section or day of the trip with the maximum difficulty of each. Much of the trip is at easier levels. See the trip itinerary for more detailed information.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS OF THIS TRIP

• Hiking uphill or downhill with a 10-20 lb backpack for 7-8 hours
• Maintaining balance and footing on variable, uneven terrain
• Hiking at high elevations of 15,000+ feet

SOLITUDE LEVEL 3

1 least solitude, 5 most solitude

We rate this Peru hike a solitude 3. You can expect to have hours of solitude at a time while hiking.

•   Peru Day Hikes Near Cusco!

Make the most of your time in Peru with an add-on day hike around Cusco ! Explore a stunning alpine lake with amazing turquoise water ( Lake Humantay ); or one of the most unique and breathtaking mountains in the world with rainbow-colored soils that make for spectacular photography ( Rainbow Mountain ).

Private Trips

Travel in perfect company by booking a private trip exclusively for your group!

Our sliding scale for private trips is based on the final number of guests in your group. Rates are per person and do not include sales tax, national park fees or guide gratuity. The final rate is based on the actual number of guests on the trip and may adjust based on cancellations or additions.

Please Note: you can also enjoy a private trip at our normal scheduled rates by filling any empty tour to capacity. However, if group members drop from the tour those spots will automatically become available on our website for instant booking. By purchasing a private trip at the rates listed below, your trip will remain exclusive to your group regardless of cancellations. 

Private Rates FOr This Trip

• 2 People: Rate x 2.5
• 3 People: Rate x 2
• 4-5 People: Rate x 1.5
• 6-10 People: Rate x 1.15
• 11-12 People: Rate x 1
• 13+ people: contact us for availability and pricing

*all rates are per person and single supplements apply

•  Minimum Guests

Minimum Guests

We require a minimum of 2 guests to confirm this trip. If a trip date is not confirmed yet, you can register and will be notified when the trip is officially confirmed. We recommend not making final travel arrangements until your trip meets the minimum number of guests and is confirmed.

In most cases, if a trip does not reach the minimum number of guests, you may choose to transfer to another trip date or another trip, or be refunded your payments in full. We make the final determination for these trips 65-60 days before the departure date.

Learn About Our Private Trips

• Hiking Mileage: 3.1 miles
• Elevation Gain: 2,084 feet
• Highest Elevation: 14,715 feet
• Trekking Duration: 3-4 hours
• Accommodations: Premier Camping

On the first day of our trek to Machu Picchu we will wake up early and enjoy a light breakfast before departing Cusco around 6am. We will drive roughly 3.5 hours to our trailhead at Soraypampa (12,631′). In route, we’ll stop in the quaint town of Mollepata to use the bathrooms, have a snack and grab a cup of coffee or tea. Once we arrive to Soraypampa, we will meet our gear porters and have a thorough brief on the pertinent aspects of trekking in the Andes and at higher elevations. We will immediately be overshadowed by the towering, glaciated Mount Salkantay (20,574′).

After a nice lunch prepared by our chef, we will begin to slowly ascend a mild incline for roughly 3-4 hours to our camp at Soyrococha (14,715′).

Upon arrival at camp, you will find your tents ready and waiting, as well as hot drinks and snacks. We’ll have some free time to change clothes, get warm and re-hydrate until our dinner is served. This camp is especially beautiful at night, when the milky way is splashed across the sky. Photographers, this is the perfect place to take long exposures of the stars from the Southern Hemisphere!

• Hiking Mileage: 9.9 miles
• Elevation Gain: 540 feet
• Elevation Loss: 5,413 feet
• Highest Elevation: 15,255 feet
• Trekking Duration: 8-9 hours

Today we will wake up to a steaming cup of coca tea and gaze upon the stunning, snow-covered Salkantay Mountain. Today we will travel through a diverse range of climatic zones, from golden grasslands to sub-alpine zones to cloud forests. After a nutritious breakfast we will begin to trek slowly towards Salkantay Pass (15,255′), which takes roughly 1 hour. At the pass we will have a break to drink water, eat snacks and take in the spectacular views of Mount Salkantay. Subsequently, we’ll hike down to Huayracmachay village (12,900′), where we will have a delicious lunch prepared for us by our chef. After lunch we’ll continue hiking down to Collpapampa village (9,842′), where we will camp for the night.

• Hiking Mileage: 8 miles
• Elevation Loss: 3,126 feet
• Highest Elevation: 9,842 feet
• Trekking Duration: 5-6 hours

Today we will be trekking through the tranquil cloud forest. We will hike for about five hours following the Lluskamayo River, with the prospect of seeing a variety of orchids, birds, and a magnificent waterfall. Today’s trek ends at La Playa (6,716′) where we will have lunch and camp for the night. After we relax for a while, we will go meet Freddy the owner of our camp and a local coffee plantation. Here we will be able to pick our own coffee beans, roast them, and make our own coffee. In addition, Freddy will teach us many local traditions of the Quechua people and you can potentially buy some souvenir coffee from him.

• Elevation Gain: 1,978 feet
• Elevation Loss: 2,461 feet
• Highest Elevation: 8,694 feet
• Trekking Duration: 6-7 hours
• Accommodations: Tierra Viva Machu Picchu

After an early breakfast accompanied by Freddie’s local coffee from the farm, we will begin our hike which ascends to the Llaqtapata Inca ruins (8,694′). This section of the trail is part of the Inca Trail, used in the past to connect Machu Picchu with the city of Vilcabamba. Once we arrive at Llaqtapata we will have our first glimpse of the ancient city of the Incas, Machu Picchu. Our local guide and interpreter will introduce us to the history and culture of the Inca and Quechua people. After the lessons we will descend roughly three hours to the hydroelectric power station (6,233′). From the power station, we will take the train to the town of Aguas Calientes (6,692′), where we will take showers, change clothes and go out for an amazing dinner in town. Your guides will deliver the plan for the next morning.

• Hiking Mileage: varies
• Elevation Gain/Loss: minimal
• Highest Elevation: ~11,200 feet (Cusco)
• Accommodations: Tierra Viva Centro

This morning we have some flexibility and a couple of different options depending on how the group is feeling. One option is to wake up early and take the tourist bus to Machu Picchu (7,972′) for the sunrise. Another option is to sleep in a bit, let the tourist crowds subside and take the bus to Machu Picchu around 10 am. We will discuss the options the night before and decide as a group which strategy we want to employ.

At Machu Picchu our local Peruvian guide will lead us on a thorough and fascinating tour of the ancient Inca city for the next 3-4 hours. We will learn about the amazing cultural history of the Inca and Machu Picchu and delve into some of the mysteries that surround the remote mountain city. After our Machu Picchu tour we will head back to Aguas Calientes for lunch. We will then board a train to the historic town of Ollantaytambo. Upon arrival in Ollantaytambo, we board our private van to the town of Urubamba. Depending on the time, we may have dinner in Urubamba or continue on to Cusco (11,200′) where we will have dinner and drop you off at your hotel. What a trip it’s been!

Please Note : We always do everything in our power to follow the set itinerary, however occasionally trips are subject to itinerary changes based on a variety of circumstances, including but not limited to: lodging/campground availability, extreme weather, political or bureaucratic obstacles, earthquakes, fires, flooding and more. Normal  terms and conditions  apply to trips with itinerary changes.

Trip Dates & Booking

Trip dates & booking.

Click on a date to register. You can also click here to request new dates or book through customer service.

AVAILABLE TO BOOK

This trip is available and bookable online! Click on the date to register now or contact us online to book through our award-winning customer service team!

This trip has 1 or 2 spots remaining and is bookable online! Click on the date to book now or contact us online to book through customer service.

REQUEST A RESERVATION

This trip is exclusively booked through customer service due to logistics with lodging, permits, staffing, availability, or something else. Please contact us online or call us at 800-715-HIKE (4453) to request a reservation.

Don't see your dates? Call us! We may be able to add new trip dates.

Trip details, what's included.

• A detailed trip packet that takes the guesswork out of your travel, training, packing, and preparing for the trip
• Trained hiking guide(s) with years of personal wilderness and hiking experience, medical certifications, and a passion for leading people into breathtaking landscapes. See  Guide Bios .
• Transportation for the duration of the tour starting on Day 1 and ending in Cusco on Day 5
• Luxury Vistadome train tickets from Aguas Calientes to Cusco
• Lodging the night before our day at Machu Picchu
• All camping gear and supplies (including a dining tent and kitchen tent)
• Porters to transport all gear, food, and most personal items
• Professional camp chef and waiter
• Drinking water and hot water for washing face, hands…etc.
• Use of a backpack and trekking poles
• Gratuity for in-country crew: Porters, Chefs, Waiters, Wranglers, and Drivers. *Please Note: Gratuities for Guide(s) are not included in trip rate.
• All meals for the duration of the tour (lunch day 1 to dinner day 5)
• Emergency equipment including a company-issued first-aid kit and communication device

What's Not Included

• Transportation to Cusco, Peru
• Airport pick-up/drop-off
• Acclimatization activities (2 days of pre-trek acclimatization required). If your looking for acclimatization activities, check out our Cusco and Sacred Valley Acclimatization Day Tours.
• Lodging before and after the trekking portion of the trip
• Trip insurance  that includes medical coverage and at least $200,000 in evacuation and repatriation coverage (strongly encouraged)
• Bar bills, drink bills, extra snacks, telephone bills, wifi bills and other personal expenses (shopping/ laundry)
• All expenses due to unavoidable events e.g. flight cancellation, personal illness, strikes, etc. (we recommend trip insurance coverage for these variables)
• Clothes, rain gear, and footwear ( see recommendations )
• Sunscreen, toiletries and personal items
• Water bottles and a headlamp or flashlight (disposable plastic water bottles are prohibited; please have refillable water bottles or hydration bladders)
• Guide gratuities are optional and at the discretion of each customer. A suggested guideline is to reward outstanding service with a tip of 10-20% of the total trip cost. Please tip your lead guide and they will distribute responsibly to the crew. Local currency is preferred, or USD is also appreciated.                   *Please Note: Gratuities for Porters, Chefs, Waiters, and Drivers are included in the trip rate.

Click here to see a printable, downloadable trip information packet with more detailed information about what to pack.

Meals: What to Expect

This Peru hiking tour features a combination of in-town meals and meals prepared by your guide. Most meals are prepared on the trail by a professional camp chef. Some staples you may find are potatoes (papas), quinoa, rice, beans, meat, fish, various grains and vegetables.

For optimal taste and energy, we supplement all our meals with spices, herbs, oils, cheeses, butter, sugar, and fruits and vegetables. In addition, we provide you with with an assortment of trail snacks* (nuts, dried fruit, chocolate, & cookies) to eat at your own discretion.

We can often accommodate vegan, vegetarian, kosher and non-gluten diets and make adjustments for food allergies. These and other special dietary requests may require an additional fee, and in some countries may be more difficult to accommodate than others. Please inquire with us for more information about the specific trip you’re interested in.

*Common trail snack brands and items found easily in the US are not readily available in this destination. (i.e. protein bars, trail bars, beef jerky, etc…) We recommend guests that prefer these types of trail snacks to bring a few of their own choice items from home.

Gear We Provide

We provide all group gear which includes the following:

• Trekking poles
• Tents, sleeping bags, sleeping pads
• Company-issued first-aid kit
• Emergency communication device(s)

Guest Packing List

When you register for this tour you’ll receive access to a printable, downloadable trip information packet with a detailed packing list specific to this trip ( click here to see it now.) All trips require a sturdy pair of hiking shoes or hiking boots, rain gear, a recommended clothing system, a headlamp or flashlight, a hydration system (water bottles and/or bladder) and other items specific to each trip.

Trip Logistics

How do i register.

Reserve your spot today! In the Trip Dates & Booking section of this page, the green and red dates are bookable online by simply clicking on the date, and blue dates must be booked through our customer service team for a variety of possible reasons. To email our customer service team, you can  click here  to get the ball rolling. Our adventure consultants will confirm availability, and if you’re ready to register we’ll email you a link to a registration profile. You’ll have 72 hours to complete your profile (and that of any dependents) and pay the deposit.

Feel free to call us for more info – we’re here 7 days a week!

Where Do We Meet?

Unless we tell you otherwise, you will meet your guide and group at the Tierra Viva Centro Hotel in Cusco, Peru for an orientation meeting at 5:30 PM the evening before the trip begins. Your guide will pick you up at any hotel in Cusco the next morning for transport to the trailhead. For Private Tours your guide will meet you at your hotel in Cusco at an agreed upon time. Our Peru communications team will be in contact approximately 45 days before your trip to coordinate your rendezvous and answer any last-minute questions you have.

Click here to see a printable, downloadable trip information packet with more detailed information about flights, shuttles, recommended lodging and more.

Travel to Cusco, Peru

For guest safety, due to the high elevations of this trek (15,255′), it is required that you acclimatize (at 10,000 feet or greater) for a minimum of 2 nights prior to the trip start date. This can be accomplished simply by arriving in Cusco (11,200′) 2 days prior. Acclimatizing, being well rested, staying hydrated, and eating well are important steps to helping your body adjust to the higher elevations of this trip. Being well adjusted will give you the best opportunity to have a safe and enjoyable trek.

Flights to and from Cusco are the guest’s responsibility. Multiple airlines operate flights into Cusco, and nearly all connect through Lima. You can reach Lima from many U.S. and European international airports. Some of the primary U.S. departure cities include Miami, Fort Lauderdale, Atlanta, Washington D.C., Minneapolis, Chicago, New Orleans, Salt Lake City, Phoenix, and Los Angeles. The duration of nonstop flights to Lima is 5-9 hours. The duration of flights from Lima to Cusco is 80 minutes.

We do not recommend planning departure flights on the final day of this tour due to time constraints and the inability to guarantee when we will arrive back to Cusco.

Pre and Post-trip On Request Lodging

We secure limited amounts of pre and post trip lodging in Cusco, Peru as an optional add-on for guests of this trip. This lodging is on request, and is available on a first come, first serve basis. If interested, please reach out directly  to our team to check availability.

For guest safety, due to the high elevations of this trek (15,255′), it is required that you acclimatize (at 10,000 feet or greater) for a minimum of 2 nights prior to the trip start date. This can be accomplished simply by arriving in Cusco (11,200′) 2 days prior. Acclimatizing, being well rested, staying hydrated, and eating well are important steps to helping your body adjust to the higher elevations of this trip. Being well adjusted will give you the best opportunity to have a safe and enjoyable trek. If your looking for acclimatization activities, check out our Cusco and Sacred Valley Acclimatization Day Tours.

Safety Precautions

Your safety is our top priority. Our hiking tours are led by professional hiking guides, all of whom are wilderness-certified first responders or EMT’s, each with years of guiding and wilderness experience. Guides adhere to standardized risk management protocols in case of any potential or actual incident, and all tours carry an emergency communication device and comprehensive first-aid kit. Additionally we have a “24/7” system through which guides or guests can reach Wildland support personnel at any time.

In the interest of your safety, it’s important to refer to the  Center for Disease Control website  for up-to-date recommendations on immunizations before your trip.

Essential Eligibility Criteria

Essential Eligibility Criteria (“EEC”)  have been specifically identified to help you understand the skills and abilities necessary to participate on each Wildland trip, and they apply uniformly to all potential trip participants, irrespective of the presence or absence of any disability.

Once you identify a trip in which you may be interested, please carefully review the  EEC  and itinerary details. If after reviewing the EEC that apply to your desired trip, you determine you need an accommodation in order to meet the EEC, please  contact us  prior to registering to discuss your requested accommodation.

The EEC exist for your own safety and the safety and enjoyment of all participants. If you are unable to meet the EEC for the trip, with or without an accommodation, you are not eligible for that trip. If you register and arrive for a trip for which you do not meet the EEC, you will be disqualified from participation on the trip and will be dismissed or evacuated from the trip without a refund.

Our approach to international travel is to combine the best of two worlds: the dialed-in details, professionalism and consistency Wildland trips are known for; and the cultural immersion and intimate regional knowledge that only locals can provide. To excel with this approach, we vet and hire the best local guides, welcome them into the Wildland family and train them to meet our standard of excellence with every aspect of a trip. But along with managing logistics and safety, your guides will teach you about the area’s history and culture, and provide a level of familiarity and intimate detail only locals can.

Check out our  Meet Our Team  page for staff bios.

Guide Working Parameters

Guides are required to take 8 hours off each 24-hour period to sleep, recuperate, take personal/down time…etc. In addition, as part of the 8 hours off they must sleep/rest or be in their tents/rooms  uninterrupted  for a minimum of 5 hours each night. We ask guests to respect these requirements and to not interrupt guides’ off time and sleep time unless there is a true emergency.

Porter Team

Where are our porters from.

Wildland works with a team of 15-25 porters, mainly from two different villages: Willoq and Cuyo Grande, both located in the Sacred Valley of Peru. The ages of our porter team ranges from 20 to 55 years old. Our porter team is made up of farmers, meaning their main job is farming and the porter work is to supplement income. They grow crops such as potatoes, lima beans, peas, corn and also raise livestock such as cows, sheep, llamas, and alpacas.

Why do they choose to be Porters?

Being a farmer in the mountains is difficult work, especially in the Cusco region. Each of the members of our porter team own a small plot of land that they use for farming. This work is physical, hard and in the end is often not enough to support their families, especially if they want their children to go to school.

Porters try to work 2-3 treks per month. Each trip lasts for 4 days, so they are away from their families and farm duties between 8 and 12 days each month. They prefer to visit with their families, rest, and catch up on farm duties between treks, usually for 4-5 days. They choose when they want to be available for any given trek or set of dates.

What do we provide Porter staff?

We believe that the main ingredient for any successful trip is keeping not only our guests safe and happy, but also our staff. Without one it is impossible for us to have the other. With that said, we have created a set of standards to ensure the safety and happiness of our porter team.

• All porters are provided health insurance. It is purchased through a private company to ensure they are covered for any health-related issues while working for us. During a trek our lead guides are in close contact with all our staff to ensure safety and wellness of the entire team. Any illness or injury to our staff is treated equal to and as importantly as any illness or injury to our guests. All lead guides are trained in wilderness first aid and can properly assist any staff or guest in emergencies or in the case of illness or injury. First aid kits are carried and readily available for staff, the same as they are for guests.
• We provide staff all the gear needed to keep them warm and safe during treks. This includes sleeping bags, sleeping pads, shelter/tent, warm fleece jackets, hiking pants, hiking shoes, hats, backpacks and a brace used for extra back support.
• We understand that the quality work and effort provided by our porters during treks deserves to be matched by the quality of food we provide to them during treks. Porters are provided 3 warm meals a day on treks and the food is planned for them specifically. They are not fed guest leftovers; their food is planned, purchased, and cooked by our chef during a trek. Meals are always planned with physical and nutritional needs in mind.
• Tipping rates are included in our rates to guests and the amounts given to porters are set, fair, and predictable each trip. Of course, our guests can give more if they wish, but tips are already included in their rates and we ensure our team is tipped fairly, in addition to their normal salary.
• Also, we follow strict weight limits to not overburden our Porters. The maximum weight they can carry is 20 kilos/44 lbs.

School Project

Five years ago, Jose Condor, our partner and Peru Program Manager, started a small project called “Improving Education in the Mountains.”

This project was set up to support the schools and children in the villages around the region where our porters come from.  These small communities and villages have schools, but they are basic, and often do not have sufficient supplies.  Every year, we provide supplies for the schools to use for the school year.  We also supply some hygiene items and other gifts.  A portion of each reservation in Peru goes towards this project. The supplies are utilized by hundreds of children between the ages of 3 and 11.

Age Restrictions

Age restrictions on this trip are as follows:

• 12 and older to join scheduled tours (mixed groups)
• 5 and older to join private tours, with final approval and specific logistical requirements (such as porter or stock assist) determined on a case by case basis

Trip Insurance

For your protection, we strongly recommend the purchase of field evacuation, repatriation, and medical trip insurance. International travel is expensive, and the modest cost of trip insurance is a sound investment in an uncertain world.

If you wish to purchase trip insurance, we recommend IMG/iTravelinsured. They are one of the world’s leading providers of travel insurance.

For information on recommended IMG/iTravelinsured policies please  click here .

For even greater information, or if you simply prefer communicating with a real, live person, feel free to contact our exclusive agent Michael Bennett. Michael will help you identify the best product for your needs, and there is no cost associated with his assistance. You may contact him at:

Email: [email protected] US by Phone: 877-305-9083 Direct/International by Phone: 702-448-3664

If you already have insurance or wish to purchase from anyone other than IMG/iTravelinsured, we recommend careful consultation with the provider to ensure appropriate coverage. This is because many providers have a number of policy exclusions.

Weather in Peru

Peru is home to part of the Amazon Rainforest as well as the towering Andes Mountains. Machu Picchu is at an elevation of 7,972 feet (2,430 meters), but most of our treks in the region reach elevations well above 10,000 feet, some reaching nearly 17,000 feet. Because of the significant elevation changes and alpine hiking, the temperatures and weather can also vary widely. At elevations above 10,000 feet you can expect cold temperatures.

The average temperatures and precipitation in the Machu Picchu region are:

• Accommodations

PREMIER CAMPING

Our Peru Treks feature premier camping with comfortable sleeping tents, kitchen tents, dedicated chefs, and a team of porters to carry and set up/break down camp each day. We provide all top-of-the-line gear. Our guests regularly rave about the camping accommodations on our Peru adventures!

TIERRA VIVA MACHU PICCHU

This hotel is in the quietest area of Aguas Calientes, facing the Urubamba River and surrounded by the Forest of Clouds. Modern and stylish, it features spacious and comfortable rooms, a lounge with a fireplace, and wonderful local art hung on the walls of the lobby and rooms.

* These exact accommodations are not guaranteed. In some instances alternative accommodations of similar quality and location may be used.

Trip Reviews

Average customer ratings:.

• 5.0 (2 reviews)
• Most recent

Fantastic trip and guides!

Fantastic trip and guides! The Salkantay Trek is challenging, but you are rewarded with incredible views and the opportunity to hike in a beautiful part of Peru. Top-notch guides (thank you Edgar and Ronald!), food, and camaraderie along the way!

Amazing trip.

Amazing trip. Very well planned, which made it all go smoothly and enjoyable. Edgard and Ronald were great guides, very knowledgeable, experienced and caring for the needs of the group. Life changing experience, thanks for the great work!

See All Guest Reviews!

Related trips, you might also like....

Cordillera Huayhuash Trek

Salkantay Trek Extended Package

Rainbow Mountain Day Hike

• Similar Trips
• day by day itinerary
• logistical and travel information
• gear and clothing lists and more

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

First Name & Last Initial *

Save my name and email in this browser for the next time I comment.

wildland Wires

Sign up to receive our exclusive Wildland Wire emails and stay up to date with Wildland Trekking's promotions, discounts, contests, outdoor tips and tricks, trip reports and more!

• Peru Tour Packages
• Customized Tours
• Destinations
• EN EN ES DE
• +51932671370
• Machu Picchu Tours
• Inca Trail Tours

Salkantay Trek

• Amazon Jungle Tours
• Machu Picchu
• Sacred Valley
• Rainbow Mountain
• Humantay Lake
• Huacachina Oasis
• Huacachina & Paracas
• Lake Titicaca
• Amazon Jungle
• Machu Picchu Guide
• Peru Travel Tips
• Things to do in Cusco
• Things to do in Lima
• Peru Amazon Guide

Home » Salkantay Trek vs Inca Trail: Which Route to Machu Picchu is Best for You?

Salkantay Trek vs Inca Trail: Which Route to Machu Picchu is Best for You?

• 13 March, 2022
• by Oliver Eberlein
• Reading time: 6 minutes

Trekking to Machu Picchu is undoubtedly an unforgettable experience, but did you know there’s more than one trail that leads there?

Most popular among adventure seekers are the classic Inca Trail and the more remote, but just as spectacular, Salkantay route.

Each trail has its own charms, and choosing which one to embark on can be difficult. To help you pick, here’s a quick overview of what each of these beautiful treks has on offer.

Below, you’ll also find a more detailed look at the differences between the two trails.

The classic 5-day Salkantay Trek tour starts with a visit to Humantay Lake. Then, it takes you on an adventure through the Salkantay Pass and the Peruvian jungle. On day 4, you arrive at Aguas Calientes for a good night’s sleep before heading to Machu Picchu.

The total length of the 5-day Salkantay Trek is 37 miles (59km).

Get ready for many spectacular mountain landscapes on both hikes!

The classic Inca Trail starts in the Sacred Valley. You can choose between a 2-day or 4-day tour, depending on your preferences and how much time you’d like to spend hiking.

The 4-day Inca Trail tour leads you through the ancient paths of the Incas, showing you breathtaking ruins and stunning nature. The length of the classic trail is 26 miles (42km).

The 2-day Inca Trail tour takes you through several important archaeological sites and gives you a tour of Machu Picchu. This tour is ideal for travelers who are short on time or don’t have too much hiking experience.

Note: As both treks reach an altitude of over 13,000ft in places, spending at least two days acclimatizing in Cusco is strongly recommended.

The highest point of the Salkantay trek is the Salkantay Pass at 15,255 ft (4,650 m). That said, you’ll be hiking at high altitudes (9,840 ft/3,000 m) for only a couple of days.

Mount Salkantay is one of the highest and most spectacular mountains in the Cusco region.

The Inca Trail has a lower altitude, but you’ll spend a bigger part of the hike above 9,840 ft/3,000 m.

The highest altitude along the way is the Dead Woman’s Pass (13,829 ft/4,215 m).

The trek via the Salkantay route is strenuous, going through steeper and rougher terrains. Each day, you’ll hike for about 6 to 10 hours.

Because of its diverse climate and walking conditions, you’ll need to carefully prepare your Salkantay Trek packing list . The trek takes 5 days, so remember to pack light and smart.

Travelers hiking the Salkantay pass, the hardest part of the second day.

The Inca Trail is considered a moderate hike, and you’ll likely walk around 6 to 7 hours most days. The shortened, 2-day version of the trek is easier and it allows you to see key sights at a more relaxed pace.

The weather on the Trail can be unpredictable, so preparing a packing list for the Inca Trail including all the essentials is a must-have.

The Salkantay trek comes with plenty of varied and beautiful sceneries – turquoise lakes, glaciers, and snow-capped mountain peaks. You will also visit the Amazon jungle and witness rivers, waterfalls, and coffee plantations along the way.

The Inca Trail is nothing short of impressive. It offers travelers centuries-old Inca ruins and sites, mountain views, and cloud forests. On your last day, you get your first glimpse of Machu Picchu through the Sun Gate.

The Inca Trail will impress you with many stunning ruins that you’ll see on the way.

Availability

The Salkantay Trek does not have a strict limit on the number of tourists allowed, offering a wider availability. However, it’s still sensible to arrange and book your trek on time as the best operators get booked fast.

The Inca Trail has a limit on the number of hikers allowed (200 a day), so you must book well in advance.

The peak tourist period runs between June and September, and the Inca Trail permits sell out quickly. May and October are the best time to do the Inca Trail as the landscapes are still green, but the trail is less crowded.

The Salkantay Trek is often less crowded, and that’s a big factor when it comes to facilities.

The trek is ideal for those looking for solitude and an authentic hiking experience, but it’s good to remember that there are no showers or bathrooms set up along the way.

On the first night of the Salkantay trek, you’ll sleep under the stars in the sky domes.

The Inca Trail is the most popular route to Machu Picchu and, as such, it’s equipped to meet basic travelers’ needs.

During your Inca Trail hike, campsites are set up for you. In addition, basic bathrooms and showers can be found along the route and many of them are well-maintained.

The Salkantay trek doesn’t require special permits and, although you need to pay a fee to enter Salkantay, the costs will be lower than those of the Inca Trail.

The average cost of hiking the Salkantay Trek is between $500 and $600.

One of the important factors to keep in mind here is that the Inca Trail is strictly controlled. Because there is limited availability per day and you need to have a permit, Inca Trail tours are more expensive.

Depending on the duration of the hike, the average cost of the Inca Trail tours ranges between $500 and $800.

One more control at the checkpoint we’re ready to go!

How Do I Choose the Right One?

The Peruvian Andes region and its captivating treks to Machu Picchu are a must-visit for any nature lover. When choosing a trek, there are several key things to consider.

Here’s how to figure out which trail is right for you.

Plan Your Budget

Although costs should not be the only factor when deciding on a trekking tour, it’s still something to keep in mind.

As mentioned above, each route has different costs, so evaluate that based on your budget and plan accordingly.

Consider Your Strength and Interests

One of the main factors when choosing a trail will ultimately come down to your interests and what you want to get out of your hike (e.g experiencing the jungle or exploring ancient ruins).

Be sure to take your fitness level into account, as well. The longer and steeper the hike, the more difficult it’s going to be. Here’s a quick breakdown:

• Easy: little to no elevation gain
• Moderate: Steady ascent with some obstacles like roots
• Strenuous: Longer, steeper ascents that likely include numerous obstacles such as rocks

One thing both hikes have in common is the ultimate highlight they include: Machu Picchu.

Do Your Research

To avoid any surprises along the way, be sure to do your research beforehand and find out more about other travelers’ experiences, as well as carefully weigh in the pros and cons of each route.

Before you book, don’t hesitate to get in touch with us. We’re happy to help you out wherever we can.

Get Ready to Explore the Ancient Inca Citadel

Once you’ve decided which route to take, it’s time to get excited about your Machu Picchu adventure.

Ready for the next step? Check out our ultimate Machu Picchu travel guide and find everything you need to know when visiting the lost city of the Incas.

Related Tour

5-day salkantay trek tour to machu picchu.

This 5-day Salkantay trek to Machu Picchu is one of the most stunning tours in Cusco…

• Challenge yourself and hike in the Andean mountains and jungle.
• Enjoy excellent food prepared by professional chefs with years of experience in the mountains.

“The food was excellent, the guide was passionate and took care of each traveler, the service & communucation with exploor was really good!”

Tours in Cusco.

Chris Favre 27 October, 2022 at 10:56 am

I love the comparison of the treks and it is very helpful to get more insights about Salkantay or Inca Trail. But which hike offers more diversity?

Konsti from Exploor Peru 4 November, 2022 at 12:58 am

Hello Chris, thanks a lot for your comment. If you are looking for a trek with more diversity than is our 5-Day Salkantay Trek the perfect choice. You’ll enjoy the perfect combination of: mountains, jungle, nature, ruins and so much more. Feel free to reach out to me if you have any other questions.

Best, Konsti

Leave a comment

Related posts, the ultimate salkantay trek packing list.

• 29 December, 2021
• by    Konsti Sobon

Inca Trail Packing List: What to pack for Machu Picchu

• 14 January, 2022
• by    Oliver Eberlein

Treks to Machu Picchu: Which One To Choose?

• 17 September, 2021

Let’s plan your dream trip to Peru

All of our tour itineraries are 100% customizable . Just let us know your preferences below and we’ll get back to you within 24-48 hours.

• First name* Last name*
• Starting Date* Number of travelers* 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
• Hotels (Optional, multiple choices possible) Luxury Superior Best Value
• Trip Length 3-5 Days 6-8 Days 9-11 Days 12-15 Days 16+ Days Not sure yet
• Comments* 2500 characters remaining

• Salkantay Trek
• Inca Jungle Trek
• Huchuy Qosqo Trek
• Ausangate Trek
• Vilcabamba Trek
• Choquequirao Trek
• Huayna Picchu
• Altitude Sickness
• Packing List
• Humantay Lake
• Lake Titicaca
• Nazca Lines
• Rainbow Mountain
• Get A Trek Quote

Salkantay-Inca Trail Combo – The Best Of Both Worlds

If you can't decide between two of Peru's most popular treks - the Salkantay trek or the Inca Trail , then why not do both? The Salkantay-Inca Trail combo hike (also called the 7-Day Inca Trail) lets you experience highlights from both trails.

This challenging hike to Machu Picchu will leave you breathless. Cross remote landscapes and pass by isolated villages. Look out for unique fauna and flora and get the chance to discover fascinating Inca Ruins .

This article is a complete day-by-day guide on what to expect on the Salkantay-Inca trail.

Get a Machu Picchu trek quote

Start planning your Machu Picchu hiking holiday.

Salkantay-Inca Trail Combo - The Best of Both Worlds

7 day inca trail: faqs.

Before we get into the crux of the article, I thought it would be helpful to first answer some of the most popular questions surrounding the Salkantay-Inca Trail tour. 

How much does the Salkantay-Inca Trail combo cost?

The combined 7-Day Salkantay-Inca Trail is priced from $900- $3000. Cost varies significantly by operator, group size, hiking style and add-ons. See more on Inca trail costs , Inca Trail travel insurance , and the best Inca trail trek companies .

How long is the 7-Day Inca Trail-Salkantay Inca Trail Combo?

The Salkantay-Inca Trail combo trek is a total of 47 miles / 75km, spanning over 7 days and 6 nights.

Are there Porters on the 7-day combined Salkantay-Inca Trail?

Yes, there are porters available at certain points in the 7-day combined Salkantay-Inca Trail trek. From days 1-2, there are horses and mules allowed on the Salkantay section of the trail. When the trails join on day 3, local porters will take over with carrying luggage.

See more in our guide on how much to tip Inca Trail guides . 

What is the accommodation like on the Salkantay-Inca Trail like?

Accommodation on the Salkantay-Inca Trail is relatively basic. You will be staying at campsites on all 6 nights of the combined Salkantay-Inca Trail.

7-Day Inca Trail / Salkantay Combo

The 7D/6N Salkantay / Inca Trail Combo is a brilliant trek for those looking for a proper challenge. In total, you will be covering almost 47 miles / 75km across a variety of terrain.

The trek starts just north of Mollepata. It follows the same first-day trail used on the Classic Salkantay trek. However, after day 1, the trail veers east. It winds around the awe-inspiring Apu Salkantay (Apu means ‘Sacred’) and heads over a tough 4,900m / 16,076 ft Pass.

From here, the trail continues north for 2 days, up towards Wayllambamba. This is where you join trekkers on the Classic Inca Trail.

Looking for a day tour? Here are my 5 favourite day tours around Cusco: 

• Rainbow Mountain day trip (with meals)
• Moray and Salt Mines Quad Bike Tour
• Sacred Valley day tour
• Humantay Lake day tour
• Machu Picchu and Huayna Picchu entrance tickets

See more Cusco day trips .

What You Need to Know Before Booking the Salkantay-Inca Trail

This is a long and challenging trail. You should only consider this trek if you are fit and have experience with multi-day treks.

It is a less common expedition than other Inca Trail alternatives . Because of this, you will usually need to contact the tour operator directly (i.e. there is not always an option to join on existing dates).

Because there are few tours, prices will depend on your group size. Expect to pay around $1500-$2500 per person for two people to $900-$1300 if a larger group (10-12people) is booked.

Hiking the Salkantay unguided is always available, but you will need to check Inca Trail availability for when the trail joins up on Day 3. Permits are limited, so you should book well in advance.

Some tour operators have the option of a 6-day Salkantay Inca Trail. The 6-day Inca Trail skips the first day's itinerary (see below) and begins at Soraypampa instead.

Typical Itinerary for the Salkantay Inca Trail

Day 1: cusco-marccoccasa-soraypampa.

The trail usually begins at Marccoccasa, but some tour companies start at Challancancha instead. At this point, you will meet up with the horses and handlers who will be taking your luggage between camps. A hearty breakfast will help get your energy levels up before hitting the trail.

On the first part of the trek, you will have almost constant views of the Salkantay Mountains and green Andean valleys. Pass through indigenous forests of Queuña trees.

This is a moderate day of hiking. You will gradually be gaining altitude until your lunch stop.

After lunch, walking gets easier as you slowly move down the slopes. Temperatures drop quickly as you get closer to the snowy mountains. Be sure to pack extra clothing layers in your daypack. See more in our guide on Inca Trail clothing . 

Day 1 is approximately 4-6 hours of walking to reach Soraypampa campsite (3800m / 12,648 ft).

You may also like:

• Salkantay vs Inca trail - a unique comparison

Day 2: Soraypampa-Salkantaypampa-Ichupata

Wake up to stunning views of the area's highest glacier peaks, Apus Salkantay (‘Apus’ meaning ‘God’). Your first part of the day will be a slight detour to visit the icy blue Humantay Lake. The trek from the camp to the lake is a 2-hour uphill climb.

After visiting the lake, you continue on to rejoin the main trail towards Salkantaypampa. Along the way, you will be able to see the impressive Salkantay Mountain which is 6125m / 20,095 ft above sea level.

You should arrive at Salkantaypampa in time for lunch. Some trek options camp at Salkantay pampa where hikers can enjoy a light lunch before continuing their trek.

After lunch, you will walk another 2 hours up-slope to Ichupata campsite (4200m / 13,780 ft), which is the highest campsite on the trail. Temperatures can drop to zero degrees Celsius here, so it’s a good idea to dress in warm layers.

On a clear night, this campsite is an ideal place for stargazing. You may even hear avalanches on the nearby Salkantay mountain. But don’t worry, Ichupata camp is safe.

On Day 2, the total distance you will cover is 8 miles / 13km.

Please Note: Some tour operators visit Humantay Lake on day one. These versions of the 7-day trail often press on an extra few kilometres to camp at Pampa Japonesa. This makes day 2 a total of 13.6 miles / 22 kilometres.

Day 3: Ichupata-Inca Chiriaska Pass-Sisaypampa

Day 3 is the most difficult section of the 7-day Salkantay-Inca Trail. You will be hiking 8.6 miles / 14 kilometres and crossing the Inca Chiriaska Pass (sometimes called the Salkantay pass).

Right after leaving camp, you will start the steady climb up this 5000m / 16,404 ft pass. The view from the top is worth the effort. Hikers can sip coca tea from a flask and look out for soaring condors flying overhead.

From here, coming down the pass is much easier. You may take a 30-minute detour to see a glacier before heading towards your lunch spot in the valley.

After lunch, the trail is fairly straightforward. You will walk through green valleys alongside clear mountain streams. You will set up camp on Day 3 at Sisaypampa (4100m / 13,451 ft). This flat area has great views of the surrounding valleys.

You may also like : 

• Inca trail altitude sickness guide
• Inca trail elevation profile

Please Note: You may camp further on at the Pampacahuarina village next to the Incan canal. Camp allocation depends on availability and permits.

Day 4: Sisaypampa-Huayllabamba-Ayapata

On day 4 of your trek, you will be walking around 4-5 hours down into a tranquil, agricultural valley. You will likely pass local farmers working their land.

It won’t be long before you reach the first significant Incan Ruins - the Inkaracay fortress. Your guide will tell you more about these archeological structures.

After the ruins, the vegetation changes as the trail goes into the jungle microclimate. This is a warmer, more humid part of the hike. Following the path through the cloud forest, you will soon reach Huayllabamba. This is the connection point with the 4-day Inca Trail , which is also the usual lunch spot.

From this point, mules and horses may not pass. Local porters will carry your luggage for the remainder of the trail.

When you are done with lunch, it is all uphill from there. Take it slowly on the 9km (5.6 mi) hike up Dead Woman’s Pass. You will stop part of the way up at Ayapata (also called Yuncachimpa) campsite, which is 3300m (10,827 ft) above sea level.

You may also like...

• Hiking the 2-day Inca trail to Machu Picchu
• When to hike the Inca trail
• How fit do you need to be for the Inca trail

Day 5: Ayapata-Runkuraqay Pass-Chaquicocha

Day 5 is a total of 10 miles / 16 kilometres. Start early to continue the final 2 hours up Dead Woman’s Pass, peaking at 4200m (13,780 ft). After some time spent appreciating the view from up there, you will head down the stone stairs into the Pacasmayo valley . This downslope section is particularly beautiful as you will see lots of orchids and hummingbirds.

Near the bottom, you will stop for lunch. After eating, you will once again trek upwards for about 1 hour to the Runca Ruccay Ruins. These oval-shaped ruins are relieved to have once been a watchtower over the valley.

From the ruins, it is another hour of hiking to reach the top of the second pass (4000m / 13,123 ft). Then you will descend to Yanacocha Lake.

From here, you will pass through a pristine cloud forest and another ruin site called Sayacmarca. The traditional Incan houses, fountains, and water channels here are worth taking a proper look at.

After the ruins, it is a short 30-minute walk through jungle vegetation to the Chaquicocha campsite.

Day 6: Chaquicocha- Phuyupatamarca-Wiñay Wayna

Day six of the Salkantay-Inca Trail is relatively easy. The 7km / 4.3 mi hike should take you no more than 5 hours and you will be stopping to look at 3 Inca ruin sites during this time. On this day, you will have a good view of the Urubamba River and the Sacred Valley . 

Hikers can enjoy breakfast at camp with views of the Pumassillo Mountain before a two-hour hike to the Phuyupatamarca ruins. The name ‘Phuyupatamarca’ means ‘cloud-level town’ as it is located on top of the Phuyupatamarca pass. The platform and structures here were set up specifically to study astronomy. There is another set of ruins on the hillside. This is thought to have been a place for agricultural experiments with different crops.

The final 2-3 hours to Wiñay Wayna Campsite are not challenging. You should arrive in time for lunch and a shower. If you arrive early enough, your guide may even take you on a short walk to see the Wiñay Wayna ruins. This is only 5 minutes away and well worth the effort (even if you feel exhausted).

Day 7: Wiñay Wayna-Machu Picchu-Cusco

On your final day, you will wake up before dawn to trek the last two hours to the Sun Gate . The sight of Machu Picchu as you arrive at first light is something that cannot be described. There is an overwhelming sense of pride in accomplishing this epic journey.

You will then proceed to Machu Picchu itself for a 2-hour tour. Usually, you have some free time after this to explore the ruins on your own.

From here, you can take a bus to Aguas Calientes . The final step of your adventure is the train ride to return to Cusco for some much-needed rest and recuperation.

• Facts about Machu Picchu
• What to do at Machu Picchu

Alison Macallister

With a degree in Nature Conservation and experience working with wildlife including the Big 5, Alison works as a guide for a 5-star reserve. She enjoys sharing her passion for all things nature-related. She enjoys hiking, horseriding, 4x4 driving and kayaking.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked

Name * * * *

Email * * * *

Get a quote from our recommended local trek operator in Peru

Best local guides. great value hikes..

• Just Me
• Me + 1
• Me + 2
• Me + 3
• Me + 4
• Me + 5
• More than 6

• Paddleboarding & Kayak
• Multi Day Adventures
• Mountain Biking & E-Biking
• White Water Rafting in Cusco & Peru
• Amazon Adventures
• Multi-Day Family Adventures
• Family Day Tours
• Multi-Day Cultural Tours
• Inca Trail Treks to Machu Picchu
• Day Hikes in Cusco
• 1-2 Day Unique Inca Trail Treks
• Fixed Departures
• Cultural Tours
• Multi-Day Adventure
• Treks to Machu Picchu
• Inca Trail Treks
• All Tours to Machu Picchu
• Cultural Day Trips
• Food Experiences
• Adventure Day Trips
• Art Experiences
• Why Choose Us
• Customer Reviews & Testimonials
• Sustainable Travel Practices
• Risk and Safety
• Terms & Conditions
• Meet the Team
• Design My Trip
• Amazonas Explorer Blog
• USA & CANADA 1 (888) 696-0505

Salkantay Trek or Inca Trail: Which is for You?

The Salkantay Trek and the Inca Trail are undoubtedly the two most famous treks in Peru, and arguably South America. Both treks go to the mystical Machu Picchu, and both treks are tough multi-day hikes. But which is the harder trek? And which suits you best? Let’s start with the basics:

Hike vs Trek

The difference between a hike and a trek comes down to two things: a hike is typically a one-day or overnight experience, along a hiking trail or footpaths out in nature. A trek, however, is a much longer expedition, typically in a more wild environment (although hiking trails are still acceptable) across multiple days.

Both the Salkantay and the Inca Trail are treks, as they last multiple days. However, due to the popular nature of both trails, you can expect well-beaten paths and no “offroading”. If you are more interested in a hike than a trek to Machu Picchu then the 1-Day Inca Trail to Machu Picchu will suit you perfectly.

Check out: Our Lares Trek to Machu Picchu, a 5-day adventure that visits and supports the indigenous people of Peru by passing through their villages and sharing moments, stories, and meals with each other. This is an authentic and ethical way to interact with the real people of Peru.

Alternatively, you can check out our 1-2 Day Inca Trail hikes, or our day hikes in Cusco if it’s not important for you to end up at Machu Picchu.

Salkantay Trek(s)

Distance: 13km or 8 miles.

Distance: 22km or 13.5 miles.

This is the hardest of days across the board, as today is the day that travelers take on the Salkantay Pass, a huge glacial pass that offers exceptional views of the Salkantay Glacier. After the warm-up hike to Humantay yesterday, 4 and 5-day trekkers should find this slightly easier than the three-day trekkers.

Distance: 16km or 10 miles.

The 5-day Salkantay Trek spends day three meandering through the tropical jungles of Peru- a very far cry from the cold and mountainous terrain of days 1 & 2. Day three is a short walking day with an afternoon learning about the coffee farms of Peru, including how to farm and prepare the beans.

Distance: 19km or 12 miles.

Today begins with a hike to Llactapata, ancient Inca Ruins with a uniquely beautiful view of Machu Picchu. After this hike, you will be transferred to Hidroelectrica, and begin the walk along the train tracks to Aguas Calientes, or Machu Picchu town.

Does Salkantay Trek work for Me?

It’s clear that the best option is the 5-Day trek. The 3 and 4-day options require a much higher fitness threshold, and push hikers past the point of enjoyment, into exhaustion. Take it from me, you want to enjoy the trek leading up to Machu Picchu because if you arrive at the citadel exhausted then you simply won’t enjoy it as much as it deserves to be enjoyed.

The Inca Trail Trek

The Inca Trail is a much more structured trek than the Salkantay. The Salkantay has different options for transfers, different coffee farms to visit, different accommodation options (camping, sky domes, and luxury lodges), and horse support throughout the trek. The Inca Trail does not.

In fact, if you are looking for a trek to help you connect with nature and forget about the outside world then this could be your ticket. There are two options for the classic Inca Trail, the 4-Day, which sees three days of hiking and one day in Machu Picchu, or the 5-Day.

Inca Trail 4 Day Stats

Elevation Change- 200m descent, 700m ascent

Starting Point- Piscacucho, KM82 (Ollantaytambo)

Finishing Point- Huayllabamba

Elevation Change- 1150m ascent, 850m descent

Starting Point- Huayllabamba

Finishing Point- Pacaymayo

Elevation Change- 675m ascent, 1475m descent

Starting Point- Pacaymayo

Finishing Point- Wiñaywayna

Elevation Change- 150m ascent, 300m descent

Starting Point- Wiñaywayna

Finishing Point- Machu Picchu

Hike to Machu Picchu difficulty

Neither hike is an easy feat, but the altitude of the Salkantay Trek makes it just that bit harder than the Inca Trail. However, there are several allowances that can be made for the Salkantay that can’t be made for the Inca Trail.

For example, if you hurt yourself on the Salkantay Trek then you can exit the trek fairly easily using horses and car support. On the Inca Trail, this is not possible because horses are not allowed on the trail, and there are no options for exiting the trail. If you hurt yourself then a porter will be forced to carry you either back to the start or to the end of the trek.

Equally, the Inca Trail has more restricted options for things such as accommodation- if you think you can handle the distances but know that camping will be your downfall then perhaps the Salkantay Trek is a better option for you.

The highest point on Inca Trail and Salkantay

The highest point on the Inca Trail is 4,215m above sea level at dead woman’s pass. The highest point on the Salkantay Trek is 4,600m above sea level at the Salkantay Glacial Pass.

Inca Trail Trek Difficulty

The difficulty of the trek depends heavily on how well acclimated you are before you begin ( Check out this guide to Altitude in Peru ). If you are fully acclimatized and accustomed to hiking on wild trails then the Inca Trail is a moderate trek.

If you have never attempted a multi-day hike before then it could be advised that you opt for a trek such as the Lares , which is easier than both the Inca Trail and the Salkantay Trek, as well as has much more developed evacuation routes. You can check out our full guide to the Inca Trail here for more information about the famous trek.

Salkantay Trek Difficulty

The hike also sees a certain amount of getting in the car and driving to the next destination, which may be comforting to some but could shatter the illusion for others.

Inca trek Peru

There are many different Inca Trails around Cusco, but only one leads you down the road into Machu Picchu.

It is the dream of many to challenge themselves to an authentic Inca Trail while visiting Peru, but if the length of time is too long, if the remoteness worries you, or you’re just short on time, there are several other options for travelers that are much shorter. Check our 1-2 day Inca Trails to find another trip at your speed.

Likewise, the Salkantay is a daunting adventure that can catch many off guards and make them simply too tired to enjoy their visit to Machu Picchu. This is obviously not ideal for a once-in-a-lifetime trip, so think carefully before you make your decision. There are other options for beautiful mountainous treks in Cusco that you can take instead.

However, if you feel that neither of these options is challenging enough, then you can check out our ultimate versions of the same names- the ultimate Inca trail trek , and the ultimate Salkantay trek . Or, if you’re really up for something wild, our Choquequirao to Machu Picchu trek takes you on an adventure through the wilderness to the little-known Choquequirao and on through the Andes. Find out everything you need to know about Choquequirao here.

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

• Search for:

Recent Posts

• 4 Days Rafting the Apurímac Canyon- From Personal Experience
• Sponsor a Tree in Peru and Help with Reforestation!
• Christmas in Peru: Local Traditions and How to Visit
• Amazonas Explorer Climate Action Plan
• The Best Multi Day Rafting Trips in Peru
• English Blog
• Mountain biking in peru
• Uncategorized

We create safe, responsibly run adventures in Cusco and the Sacred Valley for lovers of the great outdoors. We are a Certified B Corps and hold all Adventure Licenses for the activities we offer. Sitemap

Enquiries: US/CANADA Toll Free 1 (888) 696-0505 Email: [email protected] Whatsapp: +51 954165014

Emergency: Maria Del Pilar Handa- Operations Manager Tel:+ 51 984765446

Address: Avenida Collasuyo 910, Miravalle, Cusco

Hours: 9am-4pm local time (GMT-5)

Amazonas Explorer Ⓒ 2022  Peru Adventure Experts Since 1985 .

Visit our Blog

View Our Privacy Policy

Terms and Conditions

• Last minute guaranteed trips
• Covid Info Hub
• Info nights & events
• How to book

Machu Picchu treks: Salkantay vs Inca Trail

Trekking to the Lost City of the Incas is a bucket list ticker for many adventurers, but which route is the best?

The famous Inca Trail, rated one of South America's finest treks, allows travellers the chance to follow in the footsteps of the ancient Incas, visiting the impressive ancient Inca sites along the way. The Salkantay trek, an alternate route for Inca trail trekkers, is no less remarkable with an array of breathtaking scenery – from snow-capped mountains to cloud forests – that will make you feel closer to nature.

Whichever route you decide on, both promise to deliver an unforgettable trek up high mountain passes and through lush jungles, with that llama selfie you were probably hoping of taking too. Use our comparison table below to help choose the right Machu Picchu trek for you.

Other treks to consider

Salkantay Base Camp trek to Machu Picchu :  Camp beneath the spectacular Mount Salkantay and on the final day, join the classic Inca Trail for the unforgettable sight of Machu Picchu from the ‘Sun Gate’. This is a variation of the Salkantay trek which is longer and slightly more challenging.

Related Posts

Comments ( 4 )

Please let me know if there is an age limit on this tour. Thanks, Wilma

Hi Wilma, Generally, the minimum age is typically 8-12 years old, with travellers over 70 years old who can participate. It would depend on which walking tour you were looking at doing and your level of fitness. This will be assessed at the time of booking. Let me know which country you are based in and I can put you in touch with an adventure consultant to further assist, otherwise, you can contact us directly at: https://worldexpeditions.com/Contact-Us Cheers, Angela

I was offered the Salkantay Pass trek when a permit was unobtainable for the classic Inca Trail and I have absolutely no regrets. The scenery is beyond spectacular, the people very friendly, the trail uncrowded -- we saw maybe a dozen other groups on the trek. Be forewarned that the "introductory" rating can be misleading. It's hard -- long, slow-going days on the trail, the high elevation saps you, and the weather can get nasty quickly. That said, I did it age 67 at a relatively good fitness level -- definitely train before you go. We ran into a sleet storm atop the pass, limiting views of the mountain. In addition to chilling us, and one person in our group briefly suffered from altitude sickness. Remember the pass is 1,400 feet higher than the classic Inca -- and 700 feet higher than Mount Whitney, the highest point in the U.S. lower 48. But the bad weather was brief, the food terrific, the guides and porters wonderful, and the views across the valley to Machu Picchu amazing. We toured Inca ruins and met really nice folks running little cafes, farms, shops and a coffee plantation. World Expeditions was giving local people little solar-powered lanterns along the way, which were extremely well received (solar is the only source of electricity along most of the trek. Wish I had one myself. Remember that the trek and Machu Picchu are only two facets of the trip. Just as fascinating were Cusco, Ollantaytambo and the Urubamba Valley (aka Sacred Valley) the circular ruins at Moray (an ancient Inca agricultural research site), the salt ponds at Maras, etc., etc. And all the other serendipitous pleasures, like dining on ceviche, cuy (guinea pig), drinking pisco sours, and watching the Peruvian National football team play on big screen TVs in a Lima park along with thousands of screaming fans.

All I can say is the extended Salcantay base camp to Machu Pichu trek is awesome and beyond words to describe the beauty and ruggedness of the region. Only to be topped with our enthusiastic, knowledgable guide to add further to a memorable trek. Just make sure you prepare yourself before hand for some long days at high altitudes that are testing. Highly rated trek.

• Cookie Policy
• Strictly Necessary
• Performance

When you visit any web site, it may store or retrieve information on your browser, mostly in the form of cookies. This information might be about you, your preferences, your device or used to make the site work as you expect it to. The information does not usually identify you directly, but it can give you a more personalized web experience. You can choose not to allow some types of cookies. Click on the different category headings to find out more and change our default settings. However, you should know that blocking some types of cookies may impact your experience on the site and the services we are able to offer.

These cookies are necessary for the website to function and cannot be switched off. They are usually only set in response to actions made by you which amount to a request for services, such as setting your privacy preferences, logging in or filling in forms. You can set your browser to block or alert you about these cookies, but some parts of the site will no longer work. These cookies do not store any personally identifiable information.

These cookies allow us to count visits and traffic sources, so we can measure and improve the performance of our site. They help us know which pages are the most and least popular and see how visitors move around the site. All information these cookies collect is aggregated and therefore anonymous. If you do not allow these cookies, we will not know when you have visited our site.

These cookies allow the provision of enhance functionality and personalization, such as videos and live chats. They may be set by us or by third party providers whose services we have added to our pages. If you do not allow these cookies, then some or all of these features may not function properly.

These cookies are set through our site by our advertising partners. They may be used by those companies to build a profile of your interests and show you relevant ads on other sites and promotional activities through our newsletters. They work by uniquely identifying your browser and device. If you do not allow these cookies, you will not experience our targeted advertising across different websites or via newsletters.

Username or E-Mail

Forget Password?

Do not have an account?

After creating an account, you'll be able to track your payment status, track the confirmation and you can also rate the tour after you finished the tour.

Already a member?

• Trekking and Hiking
• Climbing and Expedition
• Cultural and Historical Tours
• Nature and Wildlife
• Religious and Spiritual Tours
• Cycling and Mountain Biking
• Multiple Activities
• Adventure Sports
• Voluntourism
• ACTIVE ADVENTURES
• EXTREME ADVENTURES
• LUXURY TOUR
• Family Holiday
• MULTIPLE COUNTRY
• SCHOOL TRAVEL
• ECO FRIENDLY
• Why Himalayan Glacier?
• Awards and Recognitions
• Latest Trip Review
• Travel Blog

• TREKKING AND HIKING
• CLIMBING AND EXPEDITION
• CULTURAL AND HISTORICAL TOURS
• NATURE AND WILDLIFE
• RELIGIOUS AND SPIRITUAL TOURS
• CYCLING AND MOUNTAIN BIKING
• MULTIPLE ACTIVITIES
• ADVENTURE SPORTS
• VOLUNTOURISM
• Nepal Travel Guide
• Nepal Travel FAQs
• Tibet Travel Guide
• Tibet Travel FAQs
• Bhutan Travel Guide
• Bhutan Travel FAQs
• India Travel Guide
• India Travel FAQs
• Tanzania Travel Guide
• Tanzania Travel FAQs
• Multiple Country

+1-410-307-0007

• Plan Your Trip
• Inca Trail vs. Salkantay Trek and Lares Trek: Choose the Best Route

Choosing between the Inca Trail vs. Salkantay trek or the Lares trek can be a daunting task. Each route offers unique adventure options with distinct landscapes and difficulty levels. Despite such differences, all of these treks guarantee an equally exhilarating experience, leading to the iconic Machu Picchu. Also known as the Lost City of Incas, Machu Picchu is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most famous travel destinations in the world. It features extraordinary architectural marvels and the wonders of the ancient Incan civilization. And most interestingly, it features an array of intriguing trails leading up to this historic natural site.

Machu Picchu, situated high in the Peruvian Andes, has more than six different trekking routes. Among them, the Inca, Salkantay, and Lares trails are the most famous among trekkers. The Inca trail is known for its historical importance, Salkantay is best known for its diverse landscape, and Lares is famous for cultural immersion. Likewise, each route has unique attractions which we will discuss in detail in further sections. This in-depth comparison between these routes aims to help you choose the best route for your journey to Machu Picchu. 

What are the Alternative Routes for the Machu Picchu Trek?

1. highlights, 2. trek distance and maximum altitude, 3. trek difficulty, 4. crowds and permits, 5. camping and accommodation, comparing difficulty levels: inca trails vs. alternative treks, best times to travel for the inca trail and alternative treks, trekking cost comparison: inca trail vs. alternate routes, inca trail vs. everest base camp vs. kilimanjaro: comparison, 1. what should i pack for the inca trail or alternative treks, 2. what is the best time of the year to trek to machu picchu, 3. is it necessary to book a tour or can i trek independently, 4. how do i obtain permits for the inca trail, and are they limited.

While hiking the Inca trail to Machu Picchu is the famously taken route, there are several other alternative routes to reach there. Each route offers something different, making the trek a unique experience. The table below provides a glimpse into the key characteristics of the Inca trail along with the alternative routes. 

The adventurous Machu Picchu trekking options do not end here. Make sure to check out the combined routes such as the hike to Machu Picchu & Rainbow Mountain and the Salkantay Trek & Inca Trail hike and add thrill to your journey.  

Comparison: Salkantay Trek vs. Inca Trail vs. Lares Trek

Both of these trails are one of the sought-after routes to reach Machu Picchu. Although the ultimate destination led by both paths is the same, the distinct paths make the journey a unique experience. The below comparison, Salkantay Trek vs. Inca Trail provides a detailed understanding of these routes, helping you to make the right choice based on your personal preferences.

• Inca Trail: Its highlights are Inca ruins, an ancient stone-paved route built by Incas, a trail passing through the Sun Gate, and a scenic misty cloud forest.
• Salkantay Trek: It is best known for its diverse landscape and scenic natural beauty. The sight of Salkantay Mountain, Humantay Lake, and Llactapata ruins makes the route admirable.
• Lares Trek: Unlike the two routes, it offers a deeper cultural experience as the route passes through remote Andean villages. 
• Inca Trail: The trail covers 45 km (27.9 miles) of hiking distance that generally takes 4 days to finish. You will reach the maximum elevation of 4,200 m (13,779 ft).
• Salkantay Trek: This 5 days trek will take you through a hiking distance of 55 km (34 miles). The maximum altitude you will cover is 4,600 m (15,091 ft).
• Lares Trek: This is a 4-day-long trek that covers a total hiking distance of 33 km (20 miles). You will reach 4,450 m (14,599 ft) of maximum altitude via Lares Trek.
• Inca Trail: It is considered a moderately difficult trek. It offers a few challenging ascents and descents but at a lower altitude, making it suitable for beginners.
• Salkantay Trek: This one is the most challenging of all three trails. The high altitude ascent, especially in the first two days, makes it a relatively challenging endeavor.   
• Lares Trek: Like the Inca Trail, this one is also moderate in difficulty with some steep terrain. Also, the lower trek altitude makes it less demanding.
• Inca Trail: Most crowded route and requires a permit for entry. Pre-booking of the permit is essential during peak season because it gets quickly sold out. Only 500 people are permitted each day.
• Salkantay Trek: Less crowded than the Inca Trail but requires a permit to enter Machu Picchu. It has no permit limitations and offers more flexibility.
• Lares Trek: The trek requires no permit, besides the entrance ticket for Machu Picchu. It is generally less crowded than the Inca trail.
• Inca Trail: Camping tents are the primary accommodations as there are no hotels or lodges available on the trekking trail.
• Salkantay Trek: Offers both camping tents and lodges for accommodation during the trek.
• Lares Trek: Camping availability along with the opportunities for homestays and lodges accommodations in local villages.
• Inca Trail: The standard 4-day package can cost you from $800 to $1,500.
• Salkantay Trek: The cost of this trek generally starts from $500 for a standard 5-day long trek.
• Lares Trek: The trek cost can range from $600 to $1,000 for a general 4-day trek.

If you wish to grab more information on the trip expenses, check out the Machu Picchu trek cost and plan a perfect trek within your budget constrain.

The journey to Machu Picchu is a rewarding adventure, however, not all routes to this destination are created equal. The differences in various aspects make each route a unique endeavor. One such difference is the difficulty level. Some routes are most challenging while some are relatively easier. While planning your trek to Machu Picchu, determining which route to take as per your trekking ability is a crucial step towards a successful journey. For an elaborative understanding of the challenges of the Inca Trail vs. Salkantay trek and other alternative treks, follow through the pointers below:

• Inca Trail: Moderate difficulty with well-maintained trekking trails. Offers gradual ascents and descents. Suitable for beginners as well as avid trekkers.
• Inca Jungle Trek: Easy trek offering a mix of trekking, biking, and additional activities like zip-line and rafting.
• Salkantay Trek: Moderate to challenging and can be more physically demanding due to high-altitude trekking.
• Lares Trek: Moderate trek with a beginner-friendly trekking route.
• Choquequirao Trek: One of the most challenging treks to Machu Picchu with demanding terrains and remote landscapes. Suitable for avid trekkers.
• Vilcabamba Trek: Difficult trek with rugged terrain and high altitude trek. Suitable for avid trekkers.
• Huchuy Qosqo Trek: This is an easy route offering a relatively easier trekking experience. Beginner-friendly.

For any trekking route to Machu Picchu, the best time to travel is generally the same. The dry season, the months from May to September, is considered the optimal time to trek via Inca Trail or any other alternative route. The weather conditions in Peru are largely categorized into dry and wet. The dry season spans from May to September, while the wet season stretches from October to April. 

Dry months are the most favorable for trekking to Machu Picchu because of the pleasant weather and no risk of heavy rainfall. On the other hand, the wet months present you with the challenges of heavy downpours. Trekking during heavy rainfall season can lead to unexpected accidents due to muddy and slippery paths. Some regions also witness landslides. However, the dry season can be quite crowded with a large number of tourists. Therefore, if you prefer peaceful exploration, you may choose to trek via some easier routes during the off-season. But, for a safe trekking experience, try to avoid the heavy rainfall months, typically between November to March. If you want to learn more, make sure to go through the best time to visit Machu Picchu for a detailed overview.

It’s important to consider the financial aspect of the trek before choosing a trekking route for the journey. The cost generally varies depending on the route and the number of days of your trek. It also depends on the services you prefer during the trek. Taking into consideration the standard trekking days and general services, here are the approximate cost ranges for the trek via the Inca Trail vs. Salkantay Trek and other alternative routes.

• Inca Trail: $800 to $1,500
• Inca Jungle Trek: $1,000 to $1,500
• Salkantay Trek: $500 to $800
• Lares Trek: $600 to $1,000  
• Choquequirao Trek: $400 to $1,500
• Vilcabamba Trek: $700 to $1,500
• Huchuy Qosqo Trek: $400 to $1,000

Inca Trail is among the most famous treks in the world, including Everest Base Camp and Kilimanjaro Trek. Spread across different continents, these three iconic destinations are unique in many ways and differ in several aspects in comparison. Here are some of the highlights of how the Inca Trail is different from EBC and Kilimanjaro Trek. This comparison table represents factors such as geographical factors, climatic variations, landscape, and trekking experiences.

These are some of the general comparisons for your understanding. Also, check out Everest Base Camp Trek and Kilimanjaro Climb for more details on individual treks.

Some of the basic packing lists for the Inca Trail trek include weather-based clothes, extra layers, trekking shoes, waterproof outer layers, hats, sunglasses, extra pairs of socks, and so on. Make sure to check out the essential packing list for Machu Picchu for detailed information. 

The best time to hike Machu Picchu is during the dry season which stretches from May to September. These months offer pleasant weather conditions and ambient landscape for an enjoyable exploration.

Although you can trek to Machu Picchu independently, it’s advisable to book a tour with a reliable tour operator. If you are not well-informed about the landscape, it’s best to book a tour and trek with a guide. Booking a tour will save you from the hassle of arranging accommodation, transportation, permits, and other travel necessities. Moreover, trekking with assistance will enrich your travel experience, helping you understand the place and local communities better.

To obtain a permit for Inca Trail, you must pick an authorized tour operator. As the trail allows a limited entry of only 500 people per day, the permits can get sold out early, especially during peak season (June to August). Therefore, make sure to obtain the permit prior to the trek and secure it as early as possible.

This Inca trail vs. Salkantay trail along with the comparison with other alternative Machu Picchu routes aims to help you make the right choice for an enjoyable trekking experience. If you are still torn about which route to pick or are looking to join our upcoming travel group, make sure to contact us. Make Himalayan Glacier LLC a part of your journey for an unforgettable and hassle-free adventure. We have organized hundreds of successful trips to Machu Picchu backed up by a team of dedicated staff members and well-experienced Machu Picchu expert guides. With our extensive experience, we assure you a safe and exciting trekking experience through the iconic Peruvian Andes. Contact us via WhatsApp ( +1-410-307-0007 ) for more information.

You may also be interested in:

Leave a Reply Cancel Reply

You must be logged in to post a comment.

Recent Posts

• Best Time to Visit Ladakh: Discover the Finest Travel Season
• 13 Best Luxury Travel Destination in 2024
• A Comprehensive Guide to Kailash Mansarovar Yatra from the USA
• How to get a Manaslu trek permit – Costs and Fees?

Post by Categories

• Bhutan (38)
• Client Review (52)
• Climbing (4)
• Climbing and Expedition (46)
• Cultural and Historical Tours (60)
• Festivals (40)
• Guest Post (1)
• Health & Travel (3)
• Hotel and Tourism (7)
• Kailash (4)
• Nepal (158)
• Packing (6)
• Tanzania (31)
• Travel Blog (490)
• Travel Deals (1)
• Travel Gifts (1)
• Travel Tips (40)
• Trekking & Walking (106)
• Uncategorized (1)
• United States (3)
• Volunteering (1)

Planning a Trip?

We have a pool of travel experts working in this industry for more than a decade. Consult to get started.