Salkantay, a majestic snow-capped mountain nestled in the Andes of Peru, stands proudly at 6,271 meters (20,574 feet) above sea level. Revered by the Inca civilization as a sacred Apu, Salkantay continues to captivate modern-day adventurers. The Salkantay trek, an awe-inspiring alternative to the Inca Trail, offers a challenging yet rewarding journey through diverse landscapes, from rugged high-altitude terrain to lush cloud forests. For nature enthusiasts and trekkers seeking an unforgettable experience, Salkantay mountain and its surrounding vistas are a testament to the breathtaking beauty and rich cultural heritage of the Peruvian Andes.
Here, we reply your doubts and questions about the most popular hike to Machu Picchu, the 'Salkantay Trek.'
The Salkantay trek is a renowned alternative to the Inca Trail, offering breathtaking Andean landscapes and a challenging yet rewarding experience. Its popularity stems from the diverse scenery, from snow-capped peaks to lush cloud forests, making it a favorite among adventurous hikers.
For an average traveller or tourist, Salkantay is considered a challenging but certainly not impossible hike. Due to the physical demands, anyone who wishes to trek Salkantay should at least be moderately fit. Plus, all trekkers should spend at least 2 days in Cusco before the trek, to get acclimatized. Being extremely fit does not grant any immunity from altitude sickness.
The entire hike is approximately 72 kilometers (approximately 45 miles), and this hiking takes place during 4 days and 3 nights. The remaining 1 day of the trek is spent at Machu Picchu. In general, Salkantay is considered to be slightly harder than the Inca Trail. Other trails, such as Choquequirao, are considered to be slightly harder than Salkantay.
The Salkantay Pass, at 14,760123 feet above sea level, is the most difficult section in the trail. Expect wind and cold temperatures. Some hikers might experience symptoms of altitude sickness. Symptoms will disappear as soon as you start your descent. Oxygen will be provided if needed. The Salkantay Pass, at approximately 4,650 meters above sea level is the most difficult section in the trail. These challenges are a result of several factors: the challenge of uphill climbing, bitter cold winds, low temperatures in general, and the fact that you are trekking at a low-oxygen altitude.
The altitude is something that effects everyone differently. We had been at high altitude for a while, and this wasn’t as high for us–so we had no problems :) If you haven’t had experience at this altitude, give yourself 2-3 days of time in Cusco to adapt. Drink lots of water, chew cocoa leaves, and you can even take medicine if it’s really bad. Probably though, the worst you’re going to feel is breathlessness while hiking and headaches and a little nausea.
The Salkantay trek is considered moderately difficult, with varying terrain and altitudes. While it offers a more challenging experience than the Inca Trail, it also appeals to hikers seeking a less crowded and more adventurous route to Machu Picchu.
Due to weather conditions during the rainy season, hiking the Salkantay trek becomes a risky decision. Therefore, we cannot guarantee the availability of Salkantay treks from mid-March to the end of February. If the weather is favorable, we will give the OK for a trek to start. However, if we believe the safety of our muleteers and clients is at risk, we will have to cancel the trek.
The standard Salkantay trek is a 5-day journey, but there are shorter and longer options available, depending on your preferences and fitness level.
Yes, it is possible for a single traveller or a small group to hike the trek by themself, without guides or porters. However, the trail is not clearly marked at all points, which makes getting lost a high possibility. This is one of the biggest advantages of hiring a tour agency like Mystic Salkantay. Our guides know the route very well.
Children under 14 years old are not allowed to do the trek, and children who are over 14 years old should be in good physical shape and used to hiking long distances.
Unlike the Inca Trail, the Salkantay trek does not require permits, offering more flexibility for travelers to plan their trek at any time of the year, subject to weather conditions. However, please note that there is an entrance fee to Salkantay, which costs S/25 soles, payable in Mollepata. Additionally, if you wish to visit the Humantay Lake, a similar cost will apply.
You can choose your hotel by yourself, our guide will visit your hotel a day before the trek and He or She will pick you up from there.
4 nights and 5 days with the 5th night in Machu Picchu. you will go up to Machu Picchu the 5th day and is back in Cusco by 4th night. A very rough estimate is 60 km overall so maybe 12 km on average per day. (Some days are more than others though).
We recommend to make your reservation in advance and we will guarantee your Spaces for this hike. Each reservation needs 50% of deposit as first payment. The final balance(50%) will be paid in Cusco (Briefing Day). About Payment you must choose where would you like to make the deposit: Payment system online ,
We use the money from your deposit to make several important purchases, including the entrance fee to Salkantay, the entrance fee to Machu Picchu, bus tickets, and train tickets. In addition, making a deposit assures us that you will be coming on the trek, and are unlikely to cancel at the last minute. This helps us with knowing how much food to buy, how many of our guides to use for the trek, etc. The deposit is non-refundable once we receive it, because we will immediately use it to purchase the tickets mentioned above.
Please, it is very much important to fill out in the blanks on the attached booking form we email you with a true and updated information so we can make your bookings with the right and appropriate information, as in case of a missing passport or wrong numbers, or name misspelling, we are not able to make any corrections on the official government documents, so you then are not able to get into the park.
It is very important to book this trek in advance!!!
Contact with us, if you would like see the spots available for the Salkantay Trek
YES! It is recommended that you make a reservation for the Salkantay Trek and pay for your entrance fee well in advance.
No, you need to carry your valid ID (passport) to enter the trek park. Make sure you carry your passport with you and get the Machu Picchu stamp at the entrance.
Yes, you also have the following:
The best time for the Salkantay trek is during the dry season, from April to October. The weather is generally more stable, offering clear skies and favorable hiking conditions.
Essential items include sturdy hiking boots, warm clothing for cold nights, a good-quality sleeping bag, a daypack, sunscreen, insect repellent, and a refillable water bottle. Be prepared for changing weather conditions and pack light.
Yes, the Salkantay trek is suitable for solo travelers who are physically fit and enjoy challenging adventures. Joining a guided tour provides a safe and social experience.
The Salkantay trek highlights include the stunning views of Salkantay mountain, the turquoise Humantay Lake, traversing the Salkantay Pass, and the awe-inspiring approach to Machu Picchu through the Cloud Forest.
Find on an unforgettable adventure with the Best Salkantay Trek Tours. Explore the breathtaking landscapes of the Andes, traverse rugged terrains, and witness the majestic Salkantay Mountain. Salkantay Trek Machu offers the best Salkantay tours and a perfect balance of challenge and reward, leading you to the iconic Machu Picchu. Whether you're a seasoned trekker or an adventurous soul seeking a life-changing experience, our trekking tours are designed to create lasting memories and connect you with the natural beauty and rich cultural heritage of Peru. Join us and discover the best of the Salkantay Trek with our experienced guides, top-notch services, and a commitment to sustainable and responsible tourism.
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