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Salkantay Treks Hiking the Salkantay Trail to Machu Picchu

Salkantay trekking.

The Salkantay Trek is one of the most spectacular trekking routes in the world. The Salkantay hiking trail goes deep in the snow capped Salkantay mountain range, visits the emerald Humantay glacial lake, an indigenous coffee farm, and travels through several microclimates. The unique glamping accommodations and private campsites are unlike any other tour: Glass Cabanas bring stargazing into full view, Hobbit Houses with outdoor jacuzzis and hot showers, and camping literally overlooking mystical Machu Picchu at Llactapata. Wow! All this, while you are hiking an ancient trade route right into the local town at the foot of Machu Picchu itself!

The Best Salkantay Treks Start with Indigenous Tour Operator Alpaca Expeditions

You are traveling with the award-winning, #1 tour operator in Cusco for all treks to Machu Picchu. Our Salkantay Trek stands out from all other companies with its unique glamping accommodations during your trek – our Glass Cabanas and Hobbit House. You will get top-quality camping equipment , exceptional, nutritious meals on the trail prepared by professional chefs, and leading safety procedures on every trek . We are a local, indigenous, and sustainable company – 100% Peruvian and the leader in supporting our local communities through social projects and porter welfare .

Salkantay Availability

All Salkantay Treks are available for daily tour departures, March – January. Optimal trekking season is April -October. No special permits are needed, unlike the Classic Inca Trail.

How Inca Trail Permits Work

Salkantay Trek FAQs - See the top questions and answers about hiking the Salkantay Trail

1. how challenging or difficult is the salkantay trek.

The Salkantay Trek is a challenging trek in the Andes Mountains range of Peru and offers trekkers the opportunity to experience some of the most breathtaking landscapes in the country. Trekkers who prepare for 5 days of hiking from 12km to 22km (7.5 miles to 13.7 miles) daily, and are in reasonable physical fitness can accomplish this beautiful, remote trek.

The trek takes place at high altitude, which can be challenging for many individuals when not acclimated even just a few days in advance. High altitude can cause symptoms such as headaches, fatigue, and difficulty breathing. The hiking paths include rocky footpaths, steep mountain trails, uneven terrain, and depending on the season, deeply rutted, muddy paths.

This five-day trek starts at the height of 3,800 meters (~12,500 feet) and finishes at 4,200 meters (13,776 feet) at Machu Picchu. The trek’s highest point is the Salkantay Pass at 4,600 meters (15,092 feet). Trekkers will hike to the Salkantay Pass on the very first day of trekking. The typical Salkantay trek is five days, so day one is the highest altitude point on your trek. The night before your trek starts, your Glass Cabanas accommodations are at 3800 meters above sea level.

During the trek, trekkers will face a wide variety of weather conditions, including cold temperatures and strong winds in the Salkantay mountains on the first 2 days, and hot, humid rainforest conditions on the subsequent hiking days to Machu Picchu. This can make the Salkantay trail even more challenging. Having the proper hiking equipment and clothes for trekking is essential.

If you are fit and have trained for this trek, you should have no problems except possibly for altitude acclimatization. Note that altitude acclimatization is independent of physical fitness! If you are not an uber athlete, but are in reasonable physical condition, this is a very doable hike if you come prepared to spend up to 8 hours or more hiking, in order to complete the daily mileage. Fast hikers may get to camp by mid afternoon, and slower hikers tend to get to camp by the very end of the day.

Acclimatizing to high elevation before you start your Salkantay Trek is really important, especially because the 5 day trek has all the highest elevation on days 1 and 2. You don’t have a chance to work up to the highest elevation over the first few days, as a result. We strongly recommend that you arrive in Cusco at least 2 if not 3 full days before your trek so you can better acclimatize to the high altitude. Cusco elevation is 3353 meters or 11,000 feet.

2. How does the Salkantay Trek Compare to the Inca Trail Trek?

The Salkantay Tour is more difficult than the Inca Trail tour because it has a longer average daily hiking distance, is 5 days instead of 4 days (4 days of actual hiking versus 3 days of hiking on the INca trail, with the last day spent touring at Machu Picchu) and goes to higher altitude. The Salkantay total distance hiked is over 60 kilometers (37+miles) whereas the classic Inca Trail total distance is about 40 kilometers (25+ miles).

With Alpaca Expeditions, the Salkantay Trek is five nights and five days, with 2 of those nights camping in tents at private campsites where you will not see any other groups. The other 3 nights are in unique glamping accommodations along the hike – Glass Cabanas on the first night and Hobbit Houses on the 3rd night. The final night is at a hotel in Aguas Calientes, the local town at the foot of Machu Picchu. It has become a busy town focused exclusively on tourism and travelers to Machu Picchu. In contrast, the Inca Trail Trek is 4 days and 4 nights, and all found nights are camping in tents at group campsites along the Inca Trail. Note that all the trekking companies use the same group campsites, so hikers will be camping with many other travelers each night.

Here is a quick comparison of the Salkantay 5 Day Trek and the Inca Trail 4 Day Trek:

• Salkantay 60+km/ 37+ miles
• Inca Trail 40+km / 25+ miles

AVERAGE DAILY HIKING:

• Salkantay 12-22 km/ 7.5 -13.7 miles
• Inca Trail: 10-16 km/6.2-10 mi

MACHU PICCHU ACCESS:

• Salkantay – Hike into Aguas Calientes town at base of Machu Picchu on Day 4. Walk or bus to Machu Picchu on day 5.
• INca Trail: Hike into Machu Picchu on Day 4 through the Sun Gate

ACCOMMODATIONS:

• Salkantay: 2 nights tent camping, 2 nights glamping, 1 night hotel
• Inca Trail: 3 nights tent camping

COOKING CLASSES

• Salkantay: YES
• Inca Trail: YES

EMERGENCY HORSE for Tired Trekkers

• Salkantay: YES day 1 (hardest longest day)
• Inca Trail: no

HIGHEST ELEVATION

• Salkantay: Salkantay Pass at 4,600 meters (15,092 feet)
• Inca Trail: Dead Woman’s Pass 4,000 meters (13,200 feet)

3. Are there Facilities for Showers Available During the Salkantay Trek?

Typically yes, there are some showers on the Salkantay Trek. The availability of showers on the trek depends, though, on what kind of Salkantay Trek you are doing: tent camping only, glamping & traditional camping, or mountain lodges. If it’s an exclusively tent camping trek, typically there are no showers at all. Alpaca Expeditions’ Salkantay Trek is a glamping trek.Trekkers enjoy showers on night 1 at the Glass Cabanas, on night 3 at the Hobbit Houses, and on night 5 at the hotel in Aguas Calientes before your final day touring Machu Picchu. If you are trekking the Salkantay trail via a mountain lodge path, you will typically showers at the lodges. Salkantay Treks options vary, so it’s really about your budget and trekking style.

4. What are the Bathroom Options on the Salkantay Trek?

There are several minimalist bathroom facilities along much of the Salkantay Trek, especially with how Alpaca Expeditions runs its glamping and camping 5 day trek.

Remember to bring your own toilet paper though, as you cannot be assured of TP in any of these facilities! Along the trek, there is typically a public or private bathroom opportunity at the lunch stop; otherwise, there are no bathrooms.

Night 0 – Pre Trek

• The first night at Alpaca Expeditions’ Glass Cabanas has a bathhouse with flush toilets, and running water for sinks and showers. Note – this is the night before day

DAY 1 – Trekking

• On the first day of trekking to the Salkantay Pass, there is a small and clean bathroom one-third of the way up the pass that costs one sol to use. It is maintained by local villagers who manage the small drink and snack station (and souvenirs) there beside it, as well.
• Also on day 1 of hiking, right before the top of the pass, there is another public bathroom facility that you can use. It is really just a little shack with a flush toilet in it, and it is not regularly managed or cleaned. While it’s not in excellent condition, it is a flush toilet! You will want to remember to always carry extra toilet paper for your personal use on the trek.
• This 2nd night on the Alpaca Expeditions’ Salkantay Trek is tent camping in the middle of the mountains. There is a small bathroom stall with a flush toilet, and initial toilet paper supplies. Remember to supplement with your own toilet paper.

DAY 2 – Trekking

• During the 2nd day of the trek, you will have lunch at a little roadside picnic area with clean bathrooms with flush toilets. The bathrooms cost 1 or 2 soles to use, it’s worth it because they are well maintained!
• In the morning and afternoon while hiking, there are no public bathrooms, so mother nature is it.
• The 3rd night is at the Hobbit Houses with bathrooms with flush toilets and hot showers. Bring your own TP to be sure you don’t run out.

DAY 3 – Trekking

• On Alpaca Expeditions’ Salkantay Trek, during this 3rd day of hiking you will hike along the river and then to a really cool indigenous coffee farm. Well maintained bathrooms with flush toilets are available there, and you’ll enjoy a wonderful lunch, cooking class, make your own roasted coffee beans, and also tour the coffee farm.
• This is the 4th night of your 5 day, 5 night trek, and it is tent camping at Llactapata high up in the mountains and next to a closed lodge. Trekkers can use the two adjacent bathroom stalls with flush toilets and running water sinks there at the lodge facility.

DAY 4 Trekking

• Hiking during the morning is down into Hydroelectrica. There are no bathrooms along the way in the morning – mother nature is it.
• Clean bathrooms are available at the lunch stop, before the walk to Aguas Calientes along the train tracks in the afternoon.
• THere are a few places along the train tracks route that have bathrooms, have your own toilet paper and be prepared to pay 1 or 2 soles. Otherwise, mother nature is it.
• The 5th night is at a hotel in Aguas Calientes.

Day 5 – Machu Picchu Tour

• Machu Picchu has a large restroom facility OUTSIDE the entrance gate. There are NO bathrooms inside Machu Picchu.
• Be prepared, if you are hiking up Huayna Picchu during your Machu Picchu visit, the entrance to Huayna Picchu is at the very farthest side of the Machu Picchu complex, away from the entrance and only restrooms. You will be assigned a start time to do the steep, but intensely rewarding, hike up the peak, and you must make that start time or you may not get to climb. Plan accordingly if you want to use the bathroom before starting your Huayna Picchu climb and get to the entrance gate to use the restroom. You will need to show both your Machu Picchu and Huayna Picchu tickets in order to get back into the Machu Picchu complex. There are no bathroom facilities on Huayna Picchu Mountain.
• This is also true of hiking up Machu PIcchu Mountain – plan accordingly if you need/want to use the restroom before you start your hike up that mountain from your Machu Picchu tour. There are no bathroom facilities on Machu Picchu Mountain.

5. What is the Elevation of Salkantay Pass?

The Salkantay Pass is situated at an altitude of 4,600 meters (15,092 feet) above sea level. Trekkers will hike to the Salkantay Pass on the very first day of trekking. The typical Salkantay trek is five days, so day one is the highest altitude point on your trek. The night before your trek starts, your Glass Cabanas accommodations are at 3800 meters above sea level. This means you are hiking an additional 800 meters, or 2625 feet up and down in one day.

Acclimatizing to high elevation before you start your Salkantay Trek is really important, especially because the 5 day trek has all the highest elevation on days 1 and 2. You don’t have a chance to work up to the highest elevation over the first few days, as a result. We strongly recommend that you arrive to Cusco at least 2 if not 3 full days before your trek so you can better acclimatize to the high altitude. Cusco elevation is 3353 meters or 11,000 feet.

6. What Does Salkantay Mean?

Salkantay comes from the Quechua Salka, which means “Wild.” This name is attributed to the geography of the place; since crossing the pass, all the geographic space is a cloud forest full of vegetation and a wide variety of trees and animals typical of the jungle.

Long before the Salkantay route was made available for tourism, this was a mule track for the muleteers with horses that made frequent use of this route. They transported different products such as vegetables, fruits, and other goods brought from the jungle of Cusco. These muleteers were skilled in navigating the treacherous terrain, and they used this route as a means of transporting goods and supplies to different parts of the region.

Salkantay Trek Magazine: See the spectacular Salkantay hiking trail to Machu Picchu in this full color magazine!

The salkantay trek magazine.

The Salkantay Trek is an amazing alternative hiking trail to Machu Picchu than the popular Classic Inca Trail. It is a favorite for trekkers, especially because it’s far less crowded, has extraordinary scenery in the Salkantay Mountain range, and traverses through several micro climate ecosystems. We’re excited to share this beautiful trek experience with you. Download our 44-page, full color Salkantay 5-Day/5-Night Trek Magazine and see for yourself what it’s like!

Get Your Salkantay Magazine here

Salkantay Trekking Map: Elevations, Landmarks, Campsites, Altitude Profile & More

See where The Salkantay Trek Trail is in Peru, and trace your hiking route to Machu Picchu with these useful Salkantay Trek maps.

SALKANTAY MAP

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Awards , Recognized as the Best Travel Agency in Peru

Trekkers Blogs The best way to understand the experience of traveling with Alpaca is reading and watching what others have experienced with us.

More than 2K trips made safely with our Satellite Phones

Cooking classes are on all our camping treks . Learn to cook traditional, delicious dishes in open air classroom of the magical Andes mountains!

Explore All Salkantay Hiking Tours: Classic 5 Day, Salkantay + Inca Trail 7 Day, and Humantay Lake 1 Day

Find the Salkantay tour that best suits your interests. Do you want to hike the entire Salkantay Trek away from the crowds of the Inca Trail? Then choose the classic 5 day Salkantay Trek. Want to also hike into Machu Picchu through the famous Sun Gate? Then choose the Salkantay + Inca Trail 7 Day tour! Are you short on time or not keen on hiking a lot but really want to see the beautiful Salkantay Mountain range in person? Then go for the Humantay Lake 1 day hiking tour.

Salkantay Trek + Inca Trail 7D/6N

Ultimate Classic Salkantay Trek 5D/5N

Humantay Blue Lagoon Day Hike

Salkantay Trek Peru – 6D/5N

Salkantay Trek to Machu picchu 7D/6N Only Women

Check 4, 5 & 7 day inca trail availability, get in touch, alpaca expeditions recognitions, iso (international organization for standardization).

In the pursuit to stand out from the rest, Alpaca Expeditions has obtained four ISOs plus our carbon footprint certificate to date. These achievements result from our efforts to implement the internationally-recognized integrated management system. They also represent our commitment to all of our clients and staff of operating sustainability and responsibility in every way possible.

World Travel Awards

Alpaca Expeditions is internationally recognized as a leading tourism company in Peru. As proof, we have been awarded the World Travel Award for Peru´s Best Tour Operator 2021 for the second time.

TRIPADVISOR RECOGNITIONS

Our goal at Alpaca Expeditions is to create the best experience for all of our clients. We create journeys that are to be remembered for a lifetime. Journeys you can be proud of and can share with everybody around you.

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Hotel to Hotel service

Regarding the transportation provided by Alpaca Expeditions, we are committed to delivering a quality service. We strive to ensure that passengers feel supported throughout their journey. To achieve this, we coordinate closely with our guides and representatives to ensure timely pick-up at the start of their tours. Additionally, we have representatives responsible for escorting our passengers to their hotels at the conclusion of any tour.

Our drivers are not only trained in customer service but also come properly uniformed, and many are fluent in English.

Typically, all transportation types are included in each of our services. For instance, if you have booked a trekking tour, we will pick you up early, typically between 4 AM and 5 AM. When visiting Cusco, it's important to note that traffic here is generally moderate. However, there are peak traffic times, such as between 7 AM and 8 AM, which coincide with school hours, and in the evening between 6:00 PM and 8:00 PM. Therefore, if you have a flight during these times, it's crucial to be at the airport at least 2 hours in advance. The drivers of Alpaca Expeditions ensure their vehicles are prepared with all necessities before each service. They are acutely aware that delays can lead to missed trains, flights, or other connections. Consequently, they are always more than punctual, arriving at least 10 minutes before the scheduled time for any service, understanding the responsibility they carry in executing these tasks.

Personal Porter of 7KG

Remember that Alpaca Expeditions offers an extra 7 kg allowance for your personal belongings on any of our tours. We include a personal porter who is responsible for carrying your duffel bag without any additional fee. You will not have access to your duffel bag until you reach your evening campsite. The bag should not exceed 7 kg, which includes 4 kg for clothes and 3 kg for your sleeping bag and sleeping mat.

Each Alpaca Expeditions porter is paid directly after each trek, allowing them to return home more quickly. They receive better wages than our competitors, health insurance, and all their equipment free of charge, including hiking boots, pants, jerseys, fleeces, jackets, hats, flashlights, sleeping bags, and high-quality food. We ensure each of our porters has a comfortable bed in a pleasant room to sleep in before and after each trek. We also visit the communities they live in, providing toothpaste, toothbrushes, soap, and other necessary supplies to their families, along with books for their children.

This is just the beginning for us, and we are always looking for ways to do more. While the government allows each porter to carry up to 25 kg, we limit this to 20 kg to prioritize their health and safety. Each porter carries up to 15 kg of company equipment and 5 kg of personal items. This is why it is crucial to keep your personal duffel bag weight under our 7 kg limit. You might see other companies allowing their porters to carry more than the allotted weight, but at Alpaca Expeditions, we strictly adhere to these limits to ensure our porters' well-being.

Clases de Cocina

Alpaca Expeditions offers its passengers the chance to experience local cooking. We aim to immerse trekkers in Inca life by walking them through the original Inca paths and teaching them about Inca culture. Food is a significant part of Inca life, making it a special element in any tour or trek with Alpaca Expeditions.

In 2022, Alpaca Expeditions introduced a cooking class as part of each of our treks, conducted by our amazing trekking chefs and interpreted by our guides.

We will transform your dining tent into a makeshift kitchen, providing all the necessary supplies to prepare a Peruvian specialty. Your chef will guide you step by step through the process of making a traditional Peruvian meal, such as Lomo Saltado, and share some essential mountain cooking tips.

Peru is recognized as a top culinary destination, largely thanks to the popularity of our renowned beef dish, Lomo Saltado. This is most often the meal you will learn to cook, but there is also the opportunity to learn how to prepare other dishes like traditional Peruvian ceviche or even our signature drink, the pisco sour.

Cooking Class on the Inca Trail: These classes are voluntary and designed to be a fun, educational experience. Our clients consistently marvel at the amazing ability of our chefs to create culinary magic on a mountaintop. As you learn to prepare and cook Peruvian specialties, you will also see firsthand how such elaborate meals can be created on a small campsite stove.

Enjoy a cooking class in the mountains and be sure to take plenty of photos, just in case your friends won't believe your incredible experience.

Satellite Phones

The best way to hike in the mountains of Peru is to completely disconnect from technology, especially the internet and cell phones. The most impressive and exciting aspect is the opportunity to experience the true and wonderful nature that we often miss when we are at home, watching TV or absorbed in our cell phones during our leisure time. The feeling of being disconnected from work and the daily routine left at home is incredible.

However, this remoteness means limited access to emergency resources. That's why Alpaca Expeditions has invested in satellite phones for every trek.

We are prepared to assist you in case of any emergency, particularly health-related issues. For this reason, Alpaca Expeditions has invested in satellite phones, as they are one of the most crucial tools for any operator trekking in remote areas where telephone or television signals are absent. This means that every guide on our treks will be equipped with a fully charged satellite phone as well as radios. While these are primarily for emergencies, we allow our clients to use them at any time.

We ask that you cover the cost, which is $2.50 per minute. This fee can be paid in cash at our office or via PayPal once you have completed the trek.

Being just a phone call away from any doctor, hospital, or friend helps everyone feel assured of their safety. Radios, which all our guides carry, have limited reach, so Alpaca Expeditions includes satellite phones to ensure that we can connect no matter where we are on the mountain.

Portable private toilet

We understand that our clients will need restroom facilities at various times and locations during their journey. Along the Inca Trail, there are restrooms available, particularly those belonging to the communities near the trail. Alpaca Expeditions provides portable toilets to enhance this service, which will be set up at each meal site or campsite.

As with any mountain trip where we are exposed to nature, it is possible to use natural areas as restrooms. However, it is crucial to be mindful of the waste we generate, such as toilet paper or wet wipes used for cleaning. These should be carried with us and not discarded on the ground or left along the trail. Remember, the Inca Trail is a protected area overseen by a government institution. In places where garbage bins are unavailable, particularly at our camps, we provide special plastic bags for waste. Our porter team will be responsible for carrying out our waste.

Please be aware that although there are designated bathrooms for men and women, in practice, both genders often use the same facilities. Functionally, there is no significant difference between men's and women's bathrooms. Therefore, it is common for people of all genders to use whichever bathroom is available.

Cusco Salkantay Treks

SAFE TRAVEL CERTIFICATION AND AWARD OF MIRADAS PERU

SAFE TRAVEL CERTIFICATION In 2021, we received the international safety certification against COVID-19. We have implemented health protocols that are aligned with WTTC’s Global Safe Travels Protocols, so that your trip with us is not only the best but the safest. MIRADAS AWARD OF PERU K.B. Adventures received the Miradas Award in 2023, which is ontere of the highest innational rewards the Latin Communications Corporation gives to tourism companies, which distinguish themselves in the development of their activities.

Why Booking With Us?

We have created comfortable campsites for you to guarantee a high standard experience during your trek. Besides, our highly professional guides will take care of you while you are having an unforgettable experience in the high Andes Mountains. We commit to a sustainable development and support our local communities. Be part of our K.B. Adventures family and join us on our next trekking adventure!

ABOUT K.B. ADVENTURES

K.B. Adventures is a local tour operator specialized in trekking in the Andean region of Peru. We have over 20 years of experience in trekking and adventure tours, such as Machu Picchu, the Inca Trail and the Salkantay Trek. Join us on our next trek!

SALKANTAY TREK TO MACHU PICCHU

Recently named among the Top 25 Treks in the World by National Geographic Adventure Travel Magazine, the Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu is a great alternative to the traditional Inca Trail. The Salkantay Trek is ideal for travelers who are looking for new challenges. You will admire snow-capped mountains, turquoise colors lakes such as the Humantay Lagoon and Salkantay Lake, and pass through the cloud forest and the Peruvian jungle, making this one of the most beautiful and interesting trek of Peru.

SALKANTAY TREK TO MACHU PICCHU 5 DAYS

SALKANTAY TREK TO MACHU PICCHU 4 DAYS

SALKANTAY TREK TO MACHU PICCHU 3 DAYS

HUMANTAY LAKE PLUS SALKANTAY PASS 2 DAYS 1 NIGHT

PRIVATE SALKANTAY TREK 5 DAYS

PRIVATE SALKANTAY & INCA TRAIL 7 DAYS

Differences between these two wonderful journeys.

Discover the key differences between these two incredible journeys so you can choose the one that best suits your preferences and needs. Both itineraries offer unique and memorable experiences, but each has its own charm and distinctive features. Ensure you select the journey that best fits you, considering your interests, level of adventure, and expectations.

SALKANTAY TREK

The Salkantay Trek is known for its diverse and spectacular landscapes, including snowy mountains, lagoons, and tropical jungle. It typically lasts 5 days and covers approximately 74 km (46 miles). Unlike the Inca Trail, it does not require permits to be obtained well in advance and is less regulated, offering more flexibility. It reaches higher altitudes, with the highest point being the Salkantay Pass at 4,650 meters (15,200 feet) above sea level.

The Inca Trail is famous for its ancient Inca ruins, stone-paved paths, and tunnels. It is a route rich in history, following the same path used by the Incas centuries ago. It typically lasts 4 days and covers approximately 42 km (26 miles). It offers spectacular views of the jungle and the Andes, but focuses more on the archaeological ruins along the way.

INCA TRAIL TO MACHU PICCHU

The Classic 4 Days Inca Trail to Machu Picchu is a truly lifetime experience for all those adventurous hiking lovers, wanting to hike Peru’s number one trekking route and one of the most popular hikes in the world. However, there are plenty of alternatives for adventurous trekking lovers!

Start From $630

INCA TRAIL TO MACHU PICCHU 4 DAYS

Start From $420

SHORT INCA TRAIL TO MACHU PICCHU 2 DAYS

Start From $900

PRIVATE INCA TRAIL 4 DAYS

Start From $35

HUMANTAY LAKE FULL DAY HIKE

SACRED VALLEY VIP OF THE INCAS FULL DAY

Start From $55

PALCOYO RAINBOW MOUNTAIN DAY HIKE

See our camps.

Discover our unique campsites, designed for comfort and immersion in nature. Each camp offers stunning views, sustainable facilities, and a perfect base for your trekking adventures.

2-STAR HOTEL

Welcome to our cozy 2-star hotel, where comfort and convenience come together to provide you an enjoyable stay. Our hotel is the perfect choice for travelers seeking affordable accommodation without…

SORAYPAMPA CAMP

Soraypampa is the first base camp located in Cusco, Peru, at an altitude of 3,900 meters above sea level. This place is known as the first rest stop on the…

COLPAPAMPA CAMP

Colpapampa Camp is the second resting point on the Salkantay trekking route, located in the Cusco region of Peru. Situated at an altitude of approximately 2,900 meters (9,514 feet) above…

LUCMABAMBA CAMP

Lucmabamba is the third base camp on the Salkantay route to Machu Picchu, located at an altitude of approximately 2,100 meters (6,890 feet). This camp provides panoramic views from its…

SETS US APART

We are a team dedicated to providing an exceptional experience to our passengers.

We offer services such as safe transportation and comfortable accommodation in well-equipped campsites.

Nutritious and delicious meals, carefully tailored to the dietary needs and preferences of our hikers, ensuring an exceptional gastronomic experience.

Historical Information

We provide local insights to enrich the adventure with historical and cultural information, adding depth and context to the experience.

Expert guides

Expert guides with extensive knowledge of the terrain, providing safe and insightful guidance throughout the trek.

Celebrate our anniversary with us and get 5% off!

Enjoy a 5% discount on all our tours throughout the entire month of September. Don’t miss out! Offer valid only during the month of September.

WHAT THE PEOPLE THINKS ABOUT US

Salkantay 5-day trek with rubén.

It truly exceeded my expectations. I recommend it 100% and would book another experience with them. Guide Rubén was incredibly attentive, explaining the history of this journey at every step. We felt supported and safe throughout this amazing experience every day. I leave here happy, filled with joy, and with a peaceful soul. Thank you […]

An incredible experience

We just completed the Salkantay tour with KB Adventures and loved it. It’s not an easy hike, but our guide Carlos always kept spirits high, helping out and providing super interesting information about Inca history and nature facts. It’s truly an unforgettable experience reaching Machu Picchu this way, guided by the best.

Madrid, España

Unforgettable Salkantay trek.

Spectacular Salkantay trek!!! Everything was amazing, incredible hostels, breathtaking views, and a super welcoming group ❤️ Guides Ricardo and Whashinton were incredibly friendly, encouraging us and guiding us throughout the trek 👏🏼🥰

Barcelona, España

A beautiful trekking experience.

Great experience. KB Adventures has professionals who accompany you at all times, and the company is 100% local. I recommend taking this tour with them to avoid intermediaries. If you can do the 5-day tour, it’s worth it.

Salkantay guided by Rene was incredible

The Salkantay trek is an unforgettable adventure through the Peruvian Andes, expertly provided by KB agency. Starting from Mollepata and traversing landscapes ranging from tropical jungles to snow-capped peaks, the experience is enriched by abundant flora and fauna and interactions with Andean communities. Guide Rene, with his knowledge and dedication, made all the difference, ensuring […]

Sheila Nogueira d

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¡Descuento del 5%!

Por el aniversario de la empresa, disfruta de un 5% de descuento en todos los tours.

Salkantay Sky Camp has the most incredible exclusive campsites for hikers to relax after a long day of trekking.

On the Salkantay route, you’ll have the opportunity to spend a night under the stars in our Sky Camp located in Soraypampa, our Andean Huts in Chaullay, our exclusive Mountain Sky View in Collpapampa, and our Jungle Domes around the nature.

Explore Salkantay Trek with local TREKKING SPECIALISTS!

Salkantay Trek is one of Peru’s leading tour operators trusted for professional, efficient, and highly friendly services. We focus on Treks and Adventure tours to Machu Picchu only, which encourages us to polish our itinerary and improve our service continually. With a focus on discovery , cultural immersion and personal achievement , our adventure travel holidays will challenge and inspire you while you bond with other like-minded travelers who also share a love for exploring new places and cultures.

We are a passionate team of travel specialists with a reputation for delivering premium travel experiences to Salkantay , Inca Trail , Choquequirao , Huchuy Qosqo , Lares Trek and Rainbow Mountain . We know every individual is unique, which is why we take time to understand what you are looking for to ensure we deliver you the trip of a lifetime .

We keep our tours small and pay close attention to our service and quality. We believe in " Small Groups & Big Adventures. "

Why book trip with us?

• Local Tour Operator based in Cusco
• 100% Trekking & Expeditions Specialists
• Small Groups & Big Adventures
• Guaranteed fixed departures
• Safety is our #1 Priority
• Reliable, consistent and timely customer service
• Sustainable and responsible hiking
• Fantastic meals and top of the line hiking Gear

We are the operators! We are a licensed Tour Company. There is no middleman on a trip with us!

Chosen for great knowledge of their country, and a passion to make your trip extraordinary.

Our owner and all of our staff are local to Peru and care about its environment, people and culture.

Education and conservation are our passion. We aim to create lifelong ambassadors for the protection of all wilderness areas.

Average groups of 10; solos, couples and friends, united by a desire for authentic experiences.

Our Lodges in the trek

Located in Soraypampa, at 3,900 meters above sea level, our authentic camp is made up of glass domes that are located in front of the Apus or sacred mountains: Humantay and Salkantay, and allows the perfect union of heaven and earth. You will be able to recharge your energy in front of the protective gods and rest with an exceptional 360° view of the Andean sky.

Andean Huts

The Andean Huts are adapted to the natural environment without generating audiovisual impact. These huts are located in Chaullay (2,900 m) and are built from local resources: Peruvian grass (ichu) and wooden poles, which guarantee protection from cold nights and a pleasant rest.

Mountain Sky View

Discover our new exclusive camp, Mountain Sky View, located in Collpapampa (2,950 m / 9,680 ft). Here, you´ll have spectacular panoramic views of the landscape without the need to leave your lodge while enjoying the excellent comfort of glamping.

Jungle Domes

The Jungle Domes are a project that has grown since its inception, following sustainable principles to protect the planet. We are fully committed to the ecological care of the area; therefore, these charming and green structures are built in harmony with the natural environment.

The best campsites on the Salkantay route

Sky camp | mountain sky view | andean huts | jungle domes, exclusive & private campsites.

Salkantay Trekking has the most incredible exclusive campsites for hikers to relax after a long day of trekking. On the Salkantay route, you’ll have the opportunity to spend a night under the stars in our Sky Camp located in Soraypampa, our Andean Huts in Chaullay, our exclusive Mountain Sky View in Collpapampa, and our Jungle Domes around the nature.

On other routes, you’ll find that we have private campsites away from other groups and, in some cases, accommodation in the homes of local families for a truly unique experience.

You won't have to worry about being surrounded by other large groups, so you can enjoy the peace of our exclusive campsites.

More Information

Our best seller

Soraypampa | salkantay pass | machu picchu.

If you have a love for adventure and enjoying some of the best hiking routes in the world, our Salkantay Premium Private Trek to Machu Picchu 5 Days is for you. It combines the most exciting trekking trails with the most incredible scenery you can imagine. Join us on your own, in a couple, or as part of a group.

Salkantay Trek + Mountain Sky view

If you have a love for adventure and enjoying some of the best hiking routes in the world, our Salkantay Trek 5 Days is for you. It combines the most exciting trekking trails with the most incredible scenery you can imagine. Join us on your own, in a couple, or as part of a group.

The Greatest Hiking Trails in Cusco

Enjoy the best treks and hiking adventures to machu picchu, the lost city of the incas..

Each of our tours is operated by our certified and experienced guides who will take you along the world-famous Trek to Machu Picchu via the Salkantay Trail and Inca Trail. Whether you travel with a small group of like-minded adventurers, or an intimate party of family and friends, our full-time staff is on call around the clock, ready at any time to provide you with everything you need for the journey of a lifetime.

Classic Salkantay trek Machu Picchu

Soraypampa - Salkantay Pass - Chaullay - La Playa - Hidroelectrica - Machu Picchu

After spending some time in the capital of the Inca Empire, Cusco, join us on the Classic Salkantay Trek to the World Wonder of Machu Picchu. The best alternative route to the Inca citadel will take you to the stunning Humantay Lake, the imposing Salkantay Mountain, through the fascinating cloud forest, and then to the edge of the Peruvian jungle.

• Max group size: 12
• 5 days trekking
• Max altitude: 4,630 m.
• For Adventure Seekers

Short Salkantay Trek Machu Picchu

After acclimating in the city of Cusco, capital of the majestic Inca Empire, join us on the express version of the ultimate trek to Machu Picchu, the 4 Days Salkantay Short Trek. This incredible route will take you to the glorious Humantay Lake, the savage Salkantay Mountain, down through the mysterious cloud forest, and to the brow of the Peruvian jungle.

• 4 days trekking

Salkantay & Rainbow Mountain Trek

Humantay Lake - Salkantay Pass - Cusco Rainforest - Machu Picchu - Rainbow Mountain

After spending some time in Cusco, the capital of the Inca Empire, join us on Salkantay and Rainbow Mountain trek, also known as Rainbow Mountain, Seven Colors Mountain, or Vinicunca.

• 6 days trekking
• Max altitude: 5,100 m.

The Imperial Salkantay Trek

City Tour - Sacred Valley - Humantay Lake - Salkantay Pass - Rainforest - Machu Picchu

Cusco is a beautiful city that was once the capital of the Inca empire, which means it has a lot of history and many interesting sites to visit to learn all about ancient cultures. The city boasts an eclectic mix of Inca and European architecture, and you’ll want to see as much as possible while you’re here. Most visitors come to Cusco to visit Machu Picchu, one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. If you have the time, an adventurous trek to the ancient citadel will make your trip to Peru one to remember for a lifetime.

• 8 days trekking

The Salkantay way

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ENJOY THE MAGIC OF THE ANDES

Salkantay trekking.

Salkantay Trek. Explore The Andes with the Best Team .

Peru Adventure Tour Operator

Salkantay Trek : We are official and certified operators in the City of Cusco , and specialists in adventure travel throughout the region, due to its great diversity of mountainous landscapes, we organize personalized and inspiring trips for you. likewise we have professional guides, adventure lovers and highly certified for this work.

Our programs focus on the wonder of the world ( Machu Picchu ). Also offer trips to other regions of Peru. We are among the most diverse countries on the planet and are willing to show you every corner and place of this beautiful country. We are heirs to a wonderful culture. Our work objectives include supporting the local population and being part of their social and cultural development. Our company, Salkantay Expeditions, is committed to providing a service according to world tourism standards. Tourist friend, adventurer, hiker, we invite you to be part of this adventure in the Andes. Enjoy the Salkantay trek.

THE BEST SALKANTAY HIKING

Our best selling program is the Salkantay trek 5 days, the most popular alternative trek, after the classic Inca trail, this is our most popular package. This trip is the most exciting of all the alternative routes that exist, here you will walk through mountains and tropical jungles, along turquoise rivers and lakes, and the views are impressive, you will enjoy the best camps during this trip, sleeping in Andean cabins , domes and tents. Live the magic of the Andes with local people and professionals who love their culture.

Classic Salkantay Trek 05 Days

Short Salkantay Trek 04 Days

Salkantay Magic 03 Days

Our best local cusco treks .

At Salkantay Trek, you will find the best alternative hiking adventures in the Andes to Machu Picchu. Do you want other hiking alternatives to Machu Picchu? Here you can search for some exciting trails , with many of the same experiences as the 5 days salkantay , diverse landscapes with stunning views, history, tradition and culture in every place you visit, remember that we are 100% direct operators, with a group of Certified professionals at your disposal who will make your trip an unforgettable experience.

Salkantay Cultural Trek

Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu

Rainbow Mountain

Lares Trek to Machu Picchu

Choquequirao Trek

Ausangate Trek

Salkantay trek & inca trail 07 days.

A good option to enjoy the 2 trails, most visited in the Cusco region, the Salkantay trail and the classic Inca trail, a unique adventure in the Andes. Salkantay Expeditions, recommends this program, because it is a trail of wonderful landscapes, impressive views of the Salkantay mountain, and enjoy the original Inca trail.

OUR BEST CLASSIC TOURS CUSCO

These excursions are the best and classic in the city of Cusco! You can enjoy the tours with great tranquility and explore every corner. Salkantay Trail offers you this classic alternative, with the idea that you can acclimatize your body and mind before to make an adventure walk through the Andes of the Cusco region.

Machu Picchu Tours

Sacred Valley Tour

City Tour Cusco

Maras Moray Tour

Waqrapucara Day Trek

Inca Jungle Experience

These are our social projects.

Sustainable tourism is committed to having a low impact on the environment and the local cultural industry, while helping to generate income and employment for the local population. Solidarity tourism is understood as a way of traveling that is based on travelers’ respect for the people and places visited for a deeper reality of the country and a closer cultural exchange between both parties. In the organization of all our tours we incorporate the universal principle of tourism; protect the environment and benefit the local community and culture. That’s why Salkantay Expeditions. Creates jobs for local people; Porters, cooks, porters, guides. We provide educational support to children in communities. We are a professional team of travel specialists, who have a reputation, chosen in the years of work, our programs are oriented to all adventure routes in our region. Offering unique experiences to our clients during their adventure trip, we respect nature and support the local population. our motto: “ Enjoy the Magic of the Andes”

We are committed to the local community and children, the future of the world.

We are protectors of the environment and we are committed to the reforestation.

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Responsible Travel Agency

Responsible travel is at the heart of all the programs we offer as a core philosophy.When you book one of our adventures, you are supporting true sustainability in protecting local communities.

Happy People & Big Family

Our groups are usually small, and are generally a mixture of travelers, friends traveling together and couples, all of different ages, backgrounds and nationalities. Get ready to make many good friends

5 Star Services & Quality

Our service is 5 stars before, during and after your trip. Salkantay Expeditions, is dedicated to providing excellent customer service, where adventure experiences. They are unique, and the memories lived, memorable and eternal

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The savage mountain trek to machu picchu, the salkantay trek.

Discover a world surrounded by magical moments while experiencing Peru’s real outdoors and its rugged elements.

Explore the Salkantay Trek

The more scenic & lesser-trodden trail to machu picchu.

The Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu is one of the best alternative routes to the world famous Inca Trail . Long the way you’ll see some of the most incredible landscapes as well as enjoy the adventure of a lifetime. You’ll walk through the Andean mountains surrounded by snowy peaks to the warm and humid jungle.

There are plenty of different species of wildlife and some beautiful flora for you to see, in addition to witnessing Andean life in small villages.

The snowy peak of Salkantay itself is sacred and appreciated by all who live in the area. It’s 125km northeast of Cusco and sits at 6,264 masl. Professional climbers have been hiking the mountain since the year 1952. This is because it’s very easy to access from Cusco.

Locally Owned & Operated

We are the operators! We are a licensed Tour Company. There is no middleman on a trip with us!

Expert Local Guides

Chosen for great knowledge of their country, and a passion to make your trip extraordinary.

Fantastic Meals

Our owner and all of our staff are local to Peru and care about its environment, people and culture.

Eco-Friendly Tours

Education and conservation are our passion. We aim to create lifelong ambassadors for the protection of all wilderness areas.

Small Groups

Average groups of 10; solos, couples and friends, united by a desire for authentic experiences.

An adventure travel company you can trust

Our best seller.

If you have a love for adventure and enjoying some of the best hiking routes in the world, our Salkantay Trek 5 Days is for you. It combines the most exciting trekking trails with the most incredible scenery you can imagine. Join us on your own, in a couple, or as part of a group.

The Classic Salkantay Trek

After spending some time in the capital of the Inca Empire, Cusco, join us on the Salkantay Trek to the World Wonder of Machu Picchu. The best alternative route to the Inca citadel will take you to the stunning Humantay Lake, the imposing Salkantay Mountain, through the fascinating cloud forest, and then to the edge of the Peruvian jungle.

You’ll spend each night in comfortable accommodation and enjoy some of the tastiest food around - in the middle of the mountains! Experienced guides will be with you all the way to teach you about the history and nature of the region. Enjoy this route in comfort and great company.

Salkantay Trek Tours

With the Salkantay Trek being so popular, you’ll find there are many different lengths available. These range from 3 days and up to 7 days, which includes a part of the Inca Trail as well. If you don’t want to end at Machu Picchu, you can also go on a 2 day trip to hike to the Salkantay Pass. Here you’ll find all the tours on offer:

The Best Adventure Combinations in Peru

Every journey we design is carefully curated and completely bespoke, fine-tuned to your passions and interests. Experience jaw-dropping natural wonders, mysterious ancient civilisations, diverse indigenous culture and unique wildlife with some of the best trek combinations in Peru and South America.

Salkantay Honeymoon Trek 5 Days

Hey there love birds! They say that your honeymoon should be an experience you’ll never forget, so why not pair it with the most unforgettable adventure in the world?

The Salkantay Trek is listed as one of the 25 best treks in the world by National Geographic Adventure Travel Magazine and is the best alternative route to the New Wonder of the World, Machu Picchu.

We guarantee that you and the person you love most in the world will have a life-changing experience as you hike amongst the mountains and celebrate with some of our beloved Andean wedding traditions. We’ll do everything we can to accommodate you to ensure you receive all the comfort and privacy you desire!

The Salkantay trek to Machu Picchu is one of the best ways to reach the Inca Citadel and takes you through a range of incredible landscapes. The ecosystem offers a wide range of biodiversity, and you’ll get to witness some outstanding mountain scenery, unique flora and fauna, and rural communities that reside in this region.

On this incredible journey, you’ll pass through the snowy mountain tops and then descend through the fascinating and unique cloud forest to the Peruvian jungle. With each step, you’ll be making your way closer and closer to the New Wonder of the World and Lost City of the Incas, Machu Picchu.

Along the way, you’ll stop at some amazing destinations, including Humantay Lake, the Salkantay Pass, Llaqtapata archaeological site, and, of course, Machu Picchu. Your knowledgeable guide will give you the ultimate tour of the UNESCO World Heritage Site before you and your love get to explore by yourself or embark on one last hike up Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain.

This is a once-in-a-lifetime, unique experience for you to remarry the love of your life below the sacred mountain god of Salkantay, surrounded by the magic of the mountains and the stunning Humantay Lake.

The Salkantay Premium Trek to Machu Picchu 5 Days

The salkantay premium private trek to machu picchu 5 days.

After spending some time in Cusco, the capital of the Inca Empire, join us on the Salkantay trek to the Wonder of the World, Machu Picchu. The best alternative route to the Inca citadel will take you to the impressive Humantay Lagoon and the imposing Salkantay Mountain through the fascinating cloud forest, and then to the edge of the Peruvian jungle.

Each night you will spend in comfortable and exclusive lodges where you can enjoy the tastiest meals in the middle of the mountains. Experienced guides will accompany you all the way to explain the history and nature of the region. Enjoy this route with excitement and great company.

Salkantay Trek + Short Inca Trail 6 Days

The Salkantay Trek and Short Inca Trail is one of the best routes that you should do at least once in your life. This program will take you out of the routine to transport you to wonderful places that only the Peruvian Andes have for you. You will visit several tourist attractions, including the magical turquoise waters of the Humantay Lake and the imposing Salkantay snow-capped mountain. Around the mountains, you will explore the tropical forest and appreciate its diverse flora and fauna. Finally, you will visit Machu Picchu, one of the wonders of the modern world, and learn about the ancient history of the Incas. Without a doubt, this is a complete itinerary to recharge your energy and enjoy it to the fullest.

Salkantay and Rainbow Mountain Trek 6 Days

After spending some time in Cusco, the capital of the Inca Empire, join us on Salkantay and Rainbow Mountain trek, also known as Rainbow Mountain, Seven Colors Mountain, or Vinicunca.

This is the best route to explore the magical Humantay Lake, the imposing Salkantay Mountain, the majestic Inca citadel of Machu Picchu, and the authentic Rainbow Mountain. The best tourist attractions of Cusco are in this itinerary. You´ll also witness the immensity of the highest sacred mountain in the Cusco region, Ausangate (6,372 m / 20,905 ft).

Salkantay Trek & Inca Trail 7 Days

Are you finding it hard to decide between the Salkantay Trek and the Inca Trail? Well, twiddle your thumbs no more. Our Salkantay and Inca Trail 7 Days trek combines the two routes to Machu Picchu in one awesome trip. Both treks are considered in the top twenty-five treks in the world by National Geographic and put together form one of the most epic journeys of all.

It’s no surprise that this combo will challenge you to the max and test your limits. However, when it all comes to a climax at the astounding Inca Citadel, Machu Picchu, you’ll realize all your efforts were worth it. You’ll feel a huge sense of achievement and fulfillment as you wander among the ancient city and look out over the beautiful panorama that is Peru’s dense jungle.

Our Salkantay and Inca Trail 7 Days trek is the perfect choice for those pondering over the two routes. You get the best of both worlds and can enjoy following in ancient footsteps on the Inca Trail and witness some of the most epic views you’ve ever seen on the Salkantay route. Enjoy this ultimate experience by yourself, as part of a group, or as a couple.

You’ll begin your adventure on the Salkantay trail and visit the stunning Humantay Mountain that sits like a jewel among the white mountain peaks. Next, you’ll make your way to see the imposing Salkantay Mountain before diverging and joining the ancient Inca Trail.

Along this ancient path, you’ll learn all about the fascinating, innovative Inca culture from your knowledgeable guide and stop off at some of the most important Inca archaeological sites that played a huge role in their empire.

To top it all off, you’ll end your challenging trek with a visit to one of the New Seven Wonders of the World and UNESCO World Heritage Site, Machu Picchu.

Salkantay Imperial 8 Days

If you’re looking for the ultimate vacation in Cusco that includes everything, our 8-day Imperial Salkantay is the best choice. Come and explore the historical city in the company of our knowledgeable guides and venture on the exciting Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu with like-minded travelers from across the world. This package is an excellent option whether you’re traveling alone, with a partner, or in a group.

Cusco is a beautiful city that was once the capital of the Inca empire, which means it has a lot of history and many interesting sites to visit to learn all about ancient cultures. The city boasts an eclectic mix of Inca and European architecture and you’ll want to see as much as possible while you’re here. Most visitors come to Cusco to visit Machu Picchu, one of the New Seven Wonders of the World.

The Andean Explorer 9 Days

Discover the greatest in Cusco's architectural design on our 9-day Salkantay & Rainbow Mountain tour. This journey takes you to Machu Picchu, one of the World's New Seven Wonders, and Peru's Rainbow Mountain, also known as Vinicunca. Before beginning the Salkantay Trek, you'll also have the chance to take a guided tour of Cusco and a one-day journey to the Sacred Valley of the Incas to adapt to the high altitude.

Why Travel With Us?

We are dedicated and commited to our clients, to the environment, and to our fellow compatriots

Our Horsemen & Horses

All of our horsemen are from Mollepata, which is the starting point of our trek. We make sure to employ responsible people that are serious about what they do. This way, they do an excellent job at transporting everyone’s items along the trail with mules and are in charge of getting your gear safely to each campsite where it will be waiting for you.

Our horsemen are very content with us receiving a good salary and benefits at the end of each season. Salkantay Trekking provides all the mountain gear and uniforms to the horsemen. These guys can be of great help in an emergency because they know the area and trail like the back of their hand.

In addition to the trekking and camping equipment, each horse carries 40kg of the trekkers’ belongings. You’ll have 7kg of allowance for your gear.

Knowledgeable Tour Guides

Salkantay Trekking relies on an extensive network of highly trained guides and expert ambassadors as a premise to guarantee excellence in our services. We are fully conscious that an excellent guide is key to making your trip a memorable experience, which is why we are extremely demanding when recruiting and regularly training our guides.

In all of our trekking trips, the chef ensures high-quality meals on time, an adequate diet both in its quality and quantity. The secret lies in the careful selection of our team of chefs, whose top-quality restaurant background, creativity and passion for their jobs provide an unequalled touch to all of our meals. We do not have set menus since we wish to give our chefs the chance to create, innovate and surprise our clients through delicious dishes in every trip.

The Best Trekking Food in Peru

We do not have set menus since we wish to give our chefs the chance to create, innovate and surprise our clients through delicious dishes in every trip. We provide general guidelines, guest information on dietary restrictions and preferences and, most especially, the tools for a constant updating of our cooks’ knowledge in both Peruvian and International cuisine through specialization courses and training.

Exclusive & Private Campsites

Salkantay Trekking has created the most amazing exclusive campsites for our trekkers to relax in after a long day on the trails. On the Salkantay route, you’ll stay in our Sky Camp under the stars, our Andean Huts in Chaullay, and our Jungle Domes in the middle of nature in the jungle.

On other routes, you’ll find we have private campsites away from other groups and in some instances, homestays with local families for a truly unique experience.

Responsible

Knowledgeable, tour guides, andean chefs, best hiking meals, exclusive & private, find the perfect destination in peru.

With astonishingly varied landscapes, stunning scenery, compelling history, and a legacy of fascinating cultures, there is truly something for everyone. Our expeditions in Peru are designed to showcase all that this country has to offer.

Our expeditions in Peru are designed to showcase all that this country has to offer.

Choquequirao

Rainbow mountain, salkantay trek travel guide.

Before You Go, What You Should Know

We hope that this Peru & Salkantay Trek travel guide will serve as a reference for you to prepare for and undertake an exceptional and seamless journey through this “Empire of Hidden Treasures.”

Salkantay Packing List

Salkantay weather, salkantay frequently asked questions, salkantay highlights.

Here are the top highlights that you’ll enjoy on the excursion:

• Conquer the trail of the 7 snakes to reach the Salkantay Pass and take in the glorious view.
• Spot some of the most beautiful Andean flora and fauna along the way.
• Hike through the Andean mountain range and see some of the best landscapes you’ll ever see.
• See the incredible Humantay Lake that sits like a turquoise jewel in the middle of the snowy mountains.
• Make new friends along the way from across the globe.
• Try local dishes prepared in the middle of the mountains by great cooks.
• End your trip at one of the New Seven Wonders of the World: Machu Picchu.

What to Expect on the Trail

When booking a trek like Salkantay, you want to be as prepared as you can be. To help you, we’ve come up with a few of the things you should expect when taking this tour.

Feel the Altitude

You’ll be hiking at very high altitude, and going up to a little over 4,600 masl. This can mean you feel light-headed, tired easily, nauseous, headaches, and more. To avoid feeling like this, you should take the proper precautions, which we’ll go over below.

Find Some Parts a Challenge

This trek is relatively moderate overall, and most people can complete it if relatively fit, however day 2 is a real challenge. The steep and winding climb up to the Salkantay Pass takes a lot out of you. The rest of the day is downhill but can take its toll on your knees and ankles as you endure a full 10 hours walking this day.

Enjoy Your Surroundings

The Salkantay Trek is one of the top choices for many hikers because of the beautiful landscapes and views you see throughout. From snowy mountain peaks to thick jungle, you’ll get to enjoy a whole range of sights. Don’t forget to take a good camera to capture all the flora and fauna.

Experience Different Climates

You’ll need to be well prepared when it comes to clothing as you will experience very cold temperatures during the first day and a half, but will then get very warm as you head down into the jungle. You may also see some rain.

See Plenty of Trekkers

This is the second most popular trail to Machu Picchu, and there’s no limit on numbers like there is for the Inca Trail, so, as you can imagine, it can get busy. This is particularly true during the dry season from May to October.

You need a lot of energy to keep your strength up at such high altitude. Thankfully, a full team of cooks will join you and you’ll be amazed at the food they whip up in the middle of the mountains. There’s no doubt you’ll eat plenty of delicious food on the trek.

Learn a Lot

Your guide will be informing you all along the way about the history and more regarding your surroundings. Be prepared to come away knowing a lot about the Incas as well as the Andean flora and fauna.

Where is Salkantay?

Salkantay is the highest of the peaks in the Vilcabamba mountain range in the Andes. It’s in the region of Cusco and sits about 60km from the city to the north-west.

Difficulty Level

The Salkantay Trek is rated moderate to challenging. You’ll find some days easier than the others, but it can be difficult. To make sure you’re well prepared you should do some training beforehand and make sure you’re in good shape. You’ll also need to prepare for the altitude so it affects you as little as possible.

Salkantay Facts

To help you know more about this trek, we’ve got some interesting facts to share with you.

• The locals call the mountain Apu Salkantay, which means ‘Holy Lord above the valleys.’
• The highest point of the trek is the Salkantay Pass at 4,600 masl.
• The trek starts in Mollepata and ends at Aguas Calientes.
• The classic trek that lasts five days is over a distance of 74km/46 miles.
• The Salkantay Trek is the second most popular hike to Machu Picchu after the Inca Trail.
• You don’t need a special permit for this trek.
• The average altitude along the trail is 3,000 masl.

Salkantay Tips

To save you from asking too many questions about your trip, we’ve put together some tips to help you with preparation.

• Get to Cusco 2-3 days before your trek. This way, you can adjust to the altitude and take it easy before you head out on the trail.
• Do some exercises daily before you come to strengthen and prepare your muscles.
• To make sure you’re ready for the altitude, you should speak with a doctor at home for advice and see about getting pills to help you.
• Check out a packing list to make sure you pack as efficiently as possible. You will have a weight limit and need clothing for different climates.
• When you get to Cusco, try to limit your alcohol intake, or better yet, don’t drink any at all. The effects are strong at high altitude and it could make you very sick.
• Walking poles are a good idea to help your joints throughout the trail.
• Remember that the trek is not a race, and you should go at your own pace. Everyone is different, and you will never be left behind. Going too fast can make you feel ill and make the rest of the trip difficult.
• You need to stay well-hydrated because of the altitude and the distance you’re walking. Take plenty of water each day.

Recommendations

Finally, we share with you some recommendations, to make sure your trip goes smoothly and you don’t come up against any issues later on.

Plan Ahead of Time

pointing-left, some travellers book the trail once they arrive to Cusco, but this sometimes means there’s no space left or that they don’t get to go on the day they had planned. This can be really disappointing when you were looking forward to the trek.

If you plan and book the trek ahead of time, it will give you more time to relax in the city. Your vacation will also be less stressful as everything is already taken care of.

Check Which Season You Want to Travel In

In Peru, we enjoy a dry season and a wet season. Dry season is from May to October, and November to April is wet season. It can rain a lot in those months, so keep that in mind if you want to come during wet season. The temperature tends to be warm from November to April, however.

In the dry season, you see less rain, but it does get very cold at night. You can also expect to see more hikers on the trail. Consider these facts when booking your trip.

Be Careful When Packing

As we mentioned before, there are weight limits to your luggage. Make use of a packing list so you bring the right amount of each thing to not go over the weight and to ensure you have everything you need.

Take Out Travel Insurance

Many agencies and operators won’t let you on the trek if you aren’t insured. If they do, they probably aren’t very reputable. If anything does happen to you and you aren’t insured, the health care in Peru can be very expensive.

Take Extra Snacks

You’ll get snacks along the way and plenty of food, but it’s always a good idea to take extras, like dried fruits and nuts, as you never know when hunger will strike.

Consider Tipping

Most trekkers will tip the guides, cooks, and horsemen. Consider their work and how tough it is when thinking of an amount. It’s up to you.

Quality Service

For us quality of experience is only second to safety.

We are committed to providing world-class trekking experiences for our guests that go way above and beyond the mass-produced tours so common today.

I had the most fantastic trek with my family. It was one of the best experiences in the mountains, hiking to Machu Picchu. The weather was with us, and we all had a great experience with unique landscapes.

Inspiring Stories

Get a glimpse of what you can experience.

Here you will find useful tips, travel news and experiences that will make from your experience in Peru more enjoyable and complete.

Humantay Lake & Salkantay Pass

Salkantay trek experience in the rainy season, the mountains are calling in cusco, and i must go, how to prepare for the salkantay trek, travel associations & certifications.

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Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu – One Of The World’s Best Hikes

Back in September 2022, I hiked the Salkantay route to visit Machu Picchu . I also spent over a month in Cusco .

In this article, I've compiled the most up-to-date and comprehensive information on the Salkantay trek based on my own experience and extensive research. 

I've included guidance on the route, costs, the tour operators, how to do the Salkantay without a guide, when to go and much more.

Let's jump in.

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Start planning your Machu Picchu hiking holiday.

Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu - One of the World's Best Hikes

A brief overview of the salkantay trek.

The Salkantay trek (also known as the Salkantay trail) is the most popular alternative trek to Machu Picchu . And with good reason - it offers hikers an incredibly diverse trekking experience. 

National Geographic Adventure Magazine rated the Salkantay trek as one of the 25 Best Treks in the World. 

The trail is relatively easy to access from Cusco. Unlike the Inca Trail , there are no permit limitations. In fact, the Salkantay trek can be completed without the use of a guide or tour agency.

See more in our guide on how to do the Salkantay Trek unguided . 

The trail journeys through incredible landscapes with lowland jungle giving way to highland alpine settings and glaciated mountains. 

See our handy route map below outlining the various checkpoints along the Salkantay trek. 

How long is the Salkantay Trek?

The Salkantay Trek is approximately 69 kilometres / 42.87 miles long. There are some variations on route depending on where you start and the company you trek with. 

The trek is typically completed on a 5 Day / 4 Night itinerary with a visit to Machu Picchu on the fifth and final day. However, it is possible to do the trek on a 4 Day / 3 Night itinerary too. 

You can also  combine the Salkantay trek with the Inca Trail for a challenging, 7-day hike.

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 .

Is the Salkantay Trek Difficult?

The Salkantay trek is not too difficult and considered a long hike with some moderate to challenging ascents. The Salkantay trail is generally said to be more difficult than the  4-day Inca Trail  since it is almost twice the distance.

After hiking the Salkantay, I would say it is not especially challenging. There are no technical parts and only two long uphill climbs. Many of the days include long sections trekking downslope.  

With that said, you will need to be physically fit to take on this hike. Some form of training is necessary (see more in our section on training and preparation below). 

I would also suggest you first take on some tough day trails (more than 15km / 9 miles) and shorter overnight hikes. Huaraz in North Peru is a great place to prepare for the Salkantay trek. 

The most difficult part of the Salkantay trek is on Day 2. This is when you ascend the pass to  Salkantay Mountain (6,271m / 20,574 ft). During this part of the trek, make sure you drink plenty of water and stop often to catch your breath.

Day 4 is another long day with a steep hike in the morning. I found the 2-hour descent to Hidroeléctrica (1,890m / 6,200 ft) to be particularly tough on my knees. Take it slow and walk in small zigzags down the path. 

Day 2 of the Salkantay Trek - The top of Salkantay pass.

What Makes Salkantay Mountain Special?

What makes Sakantay trek special is its most notable landmark - Mount Salkantay, for which the trail is named. 

Mount Salkantay (or Nevada Salkantay / Salcantay) is the most iconic mountain near Cusco. It is also the highest mountain in the Willkapampa range. 

Trekkers on the Salkantay trail approach the mountain from the south. On the first night, you can sometimes hear avalanches from camp in the valley below this snowy summit. 

On the second day, hikers scale the Salkantay Pass (4,630m / 15,190 ft). At the top of this pass, you will be in close proximity to the mountain. This altitude also provides amazing views into the valley below. 

This mountain is held sacred within Peruvian culture. It is not easily scaled and there have been few summit expeditions.

South-west face of Nevada Salkantay, as viewed from the Salkantay trail.

What Is the Salkantay Trek Itinerary?

The Salkantay trek set out below is for a typical 5 Day / 4 Night itinerary using an official tour company. With these treks, arrieros (horsemen) are employed to carry gear for hikers. 

This route is the most common. You may see some variations from tour company to tour company. 

Stone Cairns left by previous trekkers at the Salkantay Pass (4,600m / 15,092 ft).

Day 1: Cusco - Mollepata - Soraypampa

• Total trek distance: ~12km / 7.45 miles
• Total time walking: ~6 hours

Most Salkantay tours depart by bus or private car from Cusco city (3,399m / 11,151 ft) early on day one. You will be picked up from your hotel or meet at the company office around 4:30 / 5:00. 

From Cusco, it is a 2-hour drive to the town of Mollepata (2,900m / 9,514 ft). Here is the first checkpoint where you will need to pay Salkantay entrance fees (which costs about 20 soles). This money goes directly to the community. In Mollepata, you will likely stop and have breakfast.

It is possible to start the trek from Mollepata but most tour operators don’t. This is because this lengthens day one by a few hours. Also, the beginning of the trail is along a rather unpleasant road.

Most operators will take you to the trailhead at Challacancha (3,600m / 11,811 ft). You may also start slightly further on at Sayllapata. Both these start points are around 3,600m (11,811 ft) above sea level.

From here, trekkers follow a gradual trail that climbs upwards. It takes about 3-4 hours to reach Soraypampa (3,850m / 12,631 ft).

Soraypampa is where you will meet your support team. The first good views of Salkantay and the Apurimac River valley are visible from here.

This is where most trekking groups will stop to have lunch. After lunch, you may trek up to Humantay Lake situated at 4,200m / 13,779 ft (1.5 hours up the pass) before returning to Soraypampa to camp for the night.

Alternatively, some companies start from Soraypampa Camp (3850m / 12,631 ft). In this case, the first day is a short but challenging ascent of 3km (1.8 mi) to Humantay Lake.

After spending some time at the lake, you will hike back down to your camp for the night.

There are a few companies that continue on to Salkantaypampa Camp (4,100m / 13,451 ft) for the first night. In this case, Humantay Lake may be skipped altogether during a Salkantay trek.

Buses at Soraypampa camp.

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

• Total trek distance: ~ 22km / 13.67 miles
• Total time walking: ~7 hours

Day two is the longest ascent, so prepare to be challenged.

After waking early, you will begin the trek from Soraypampa / Salkantaypampa to Soyrococha (4,600m / 15,091 ft). This stretch takes about 2-2.5 hours. It starts gradually and gets steeper.

After about an hour of trekking, the trail begins zigzagging. These switchbacks are called the 7 Culebras (7 snakes), making this one of the toughest parts of the trail.

Many guides refer to this section as the ‘Gringo Killer’. Don’t let that scare you! In the cool hours of the morning, the ascent is totally manageable if you take it slow. After my trek, my entire group agreed that the slope was not as difficult as it had been made out to be.

Please Note: There is an option to ride a mule or horse up this section (at an extra cost of 100 soles). If you are already struggling with the altitude, consider taking this ‘mountain taxi’ for the rest of the way up.

At the top of the Culebras, you might notice that the temperature is cooler. Wear a hat and sunscreen as the sun is more intense at this altitude.

The views of Salkantay from here onwards are breathtaking. Make sure you have enough film and battery life. After this, you will reach Soyrococha before 10 am.

You might be exhausted as the air is thin at this altitude. There is still a significant climb ahead, so dig deep in your reserves!

Salkantay Mountain

You will continue for another hour upwards, with Salkantay on your right. Finally, you will reach the Salkantay Pass (4,630m / 15,190 ft). You can enjoy the feeling of immense satisfaction and pride at this exquisite height.

On a clear day, you will get amazing views of Salkantay Mountain to your right and Humantay Mountain (5,917m / 19,413 ft) to your left.

One of many camps at Chaullay. You can enjoy a well-deserved rest here after a mammoth day of trekking!

Here’s the good news. From the Salkantay Pass, it is all downhill. You will descend 2-3 hours to Wayraqmacchay (3,912m / 12,834 ft) for a lunch break. It is possible to stay overnight here. However, most tours continue further for 3 more hours down to Chaullay (2,920m / 9,580 ft) or Collpapampa (2,850m / 9,350 ft).

As you get lower in the valley, you will notice that the landscape changes dramatically. Andean mountain terrain becomes a lush tropical forest.

Day 3: Collpapampa - La Playa

• Total trek distance: ~18km / 11.19 miles

Day 3 is considered fairly easy-going. You may even rise later than usual to depart from the campsite at Collpapampa.

There are some ascents at the beginning of the hike. However, most of the trail is along even ground towards Playa Sahauyaco (2,064m / 6,771 ft). The route is a little more populated than the earlier trails. The area sits firmly within the tropical forest zone.

Some friendly advice : douse yourself with insect repellent before you begin hiking. My legs looked like a war-zone, covered with bites from nasty little sandflies.

Playa Sahauyaco is a small campsite bordering the Salkantay River and the Santa Teresa Valley. With that said, it is a lot bigger than any of the other campsites you would have stayed at. For this reason, some trekking companies like to continue on for 30 minutes to Lucmabamba. Other trekkers catch a minibus to Santa Teresa .

You should reach your camp by lunchtime. Some companies include a short coffee tour before or after your meal.

Jungle trail along the river on Day 3 of the Salkantay Trek.

Day 4: La Playa – Hidroeléctrica – Aguas Calientes

• Total trekking distance: ~17 km / 10.56 miles
• Total time walking:   ~7 hours

Some companies offer Day 3 activities on the morning of Day 4. After these activities, tour groups are then transported directly to Hidroeléctrica (1,890m / 6,200 ft).

However, it is more common to trek over the mountain on Day 4. You will then arrive at Hidroeléctrica on foot.

Wake up early and hike from Playa Sahauyaco or Santa Teresa through aromatic coffee plantations. This is a long and challenging hike uphill. Some of this trail goes up the original Incan steps.

The views from the lookout points are spectacular and you will see flocks of green parrots along the way.

First view of Machu Picchu in the saddle.

It will take you around two hours to reach the viewpoint of Machu Picchu. Do not skip this lookout! You can catch your first glimpse of the ancient city - nestled between the Huayna Picchu and Machu Picchu mountains in the distance.

From the top, it is around 20 minutes down the mountain to the Llactapata Ruins (2,702m / 8,864 ft). The site is still covered by vegetation in some areas. It gives a good sense of what Machu Picchu must have looked like when  Hiram Bingham stumbled upon it in 1911.

The route descends steeply for 2 hours from the site to the Hidroeléctrica Station.

Here, you will stop for lunch before catching the train (which costs about $25) or trekking another 2-3 hours (10km / 6.2 mi) along the rails to Aguas Calientes.

See more in our guide on how to travel to Machu Picchu . 

Where to stay? Here are 5 of my favourite accommodation options in Cusco: 

• Sonesta Hotel  
• Antigua Casona San Blas
• El Mariscal Cusco  
• Hotel Paradis
• Quechua Hostel Recoleta

See more Cusco accommodation options .

Day 5: Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu – Cusco

Aguas Calientes (2,040m / 6,693 ft) is the town that sits below Machu Picchu. You will stay overnight here in a hotel – ah, a real bed and shower! The next morning, you will make your way to Machu Picchu.

See more in our guide on best Machu Picchu hotels in Aguas Calientes .

From Aguas Calientes, there are buses that run regularly up and down between the town and Machu Picchu (2,430m / 7,972 ft).

Aguas Calientes, the town below Machu Picchu (often referred to as Machu Picchu town).

The first bus departs around 05:30 and tickets cost about $12 each way. Queues for buses can start before 05:00 during the peak trekking season (May-September), so get there early. A one-way bus trip takes 30 minutes.

It is also possible to walk up to Machu Picchu. This takes a good hour and a half and involves scaling over 1,700 steps!

For many, it is a goal to witness the sunrise from Machu Picchu’s Sun Gate (Inti Punku) situated at 2,730m / 8,956 ft). You will need to get one of the first buses to the Citadel and then briskly walk up the trail leading to the Sun Gate. It is well marked and takes about 45 minutes at a good pace.

The view of Machu Picchu from Inti Punku (the Gate of the Sun).

Please remember your passport and your ticket as you will need them to enter Machu Picchu. If you have booked the Salkantay trek with a company, you will have a 2-hour tour around Machu Picchu with your guide.

After the general circuit, you will have free time to explore Machu Picchu . The route you take depends on your ticket. You may also have booked a hike up one of the mountain viewpoints.

The view of Machu Picchu from Huayna Picchu (aka Wayna Picchu or Wayna Pikchu).

You need to book early if you want to climb Huayna Picchu. Machu Picchu Mountain is less popular but equally challenging. Permits are also required, so make sure you book well in advance.

When you finish exploring Machu Picchu, you can either walk back down to Aguas Calientes (which takes about 1 hour) or catch a bus. Buses depart regularly, but expect queues during and just after lunchtime. This is when most trekkers head back to catch trains to Cusco.

Queues for buses at Machu Picchu start forming around lunchtime and waits can be as long as an hour on bad days.

If you are with an organised tour, you will likely have train tickets booked for Ollantaytambo (2,792m / 9,160 ft). From Ollantaytambo, you will catch a minibus / private car back to Cusco, which takes approximately 1.5 hours.

If your tour doesn’t include the train (i.e., you booked the ‘return by car’ option), you will need to walk back along the rails to Hidroeléctrica. This will take another 2-3 hours.

From Hidroeléctrica, the van ride to Cusco is 7-8 hours with a stop for a snack. I highly recommend taking motion sickness tablets for this windy ride.

Other Things to Do During the Salkantay Trek

Many Salkantay Trek companies also offer additional activity options.

Whether you're looking for adventure or relaxation, there's something for everyone venturing along the Salkantay trek. 

Option 1: Hot Springs in Colcamayu

The first option is the most relaxing. Particularly if you are feeling shattered after 3 days of hiking. A bus will take you to the thermal baths in Colcamayu. This is roughly a 45-minute drive from the town of Santa Teresa.

Spend a few hours soaking your sore muscles whilst enjoying jungle surroundings. You may want to take extra cash for cocktails.

Price Range: ~50 soles / $16 (including transport)

Option 2: Zip-lining at Cola de Mono

This option is for adrenaline-seekers. Trekkers are transported to Cola de Mono, the site of South America’s highest zip-line.

Here you will fly down 5 different lines between 12 platforms. The steel cables are approximately 250 meters (820 feet) above the ground.

Price Range: ~100 soles / $30

What is The Salkantay / Inca Combo?

The Salkantay / Inca Trail Combo combines the best of both worlds. This is where the extraordinary mountain scenery of the Salkantay Trail meets the authenticity of the Classic Inca Trail.

Although the route has a similar first day to the Salkantay Trail, it soon departs from the Classic route by heading east around Salkantay. The route is longer and more challenging than the classic Salkantay trek. It is typically completed on a 7D/6N itinerary. It is sometimes called the 7-Day Inca Trail and requires an Inca Trail permit.

See more in our guide on the full itinerary for the Salkantay-Inca Trail .

Salkantay Trek Altitude Profile

Here are some more details about the route followed on a typical Salkantay trek. After most trekkers reach Soraypampa, the trail tends to split in western and eastern directions depending on the trekking itinerary.

The Western trail follows the Salkantay trail up and over El Paso and around Playa Sahauyaco. The Eastern trail showcases the Salkantay / Inca Trail Comb trek by climbing over the Incachiriasca Pass to join the Classic Inca Trail at Wayllabamba (3,000m / 9,842 ft).

There are also some excellent route maps available in the Trailblazer Inca Trail Guidebook .

Here is our handy altitude profile for the Salkantay Trek. As you can see below, the first two days are tough. After this, the gradient evens out from Chaullay onwards.

When Is the Best Time to Do the Salkantay Trek?

There are two main seasons in the subtropical Peruvian Andes:

• The dry season, which runs from late April through to early October.
• The wet season, which starts around mid or late October and draws to a close in April.

The peak trekking season to Machu Picchu occurs during the dry season. The Inca Trail is very busy during these months and permits sell out months in advance.

Those who don’t get permits for the Inca Trail typically overflow onto the Salkantay trail or the  Lares trail . This means that between May and September, the Salkantay route can be busy.

That being said, you will not get a sense of overcrowding which can be the case on the Inca Trail. There are usually around 6 groups (8-20 people each) hiking the trail at a time on the Salkantay. These are spread out as groups start the day at different times and walk at different paces, which still allows you some tranquility during your trek.

Technically speaking, the Salkantay trek can be completed all year round. Although, I highly recommend avoiding the months of December, January, and February. This is when rainy days are the norm, which can make trekking extremely dangerous due to landslide risk.

The best trekking times run from the shoulder wet months (March / April). Good weather continues up to the shoulder dry months (October / November).

Temperatures throughout the year follow a very consistent pattern. The days are warm, reaching the high twenties in Celsius (70-80°F). The nights and early mornings are cold. After dark, temperatures are usually single digits and sometimes go below 0°C (32°F).

Temperature fluctuation is further exacerbated by the dominant micro-climates in the region. The first night is particularly icy below Salkantay Mountain. It gets warmer as you descend into the tropical forest on the following days.

Layering your clothes is key to staying comfortable throughout your trek. See more in our equipment packing list section below for details on ideal clothing requirements for the Salkantay trek.

Full charts on historic weather patterns in and around Machu Picchu can be seen here .

What To Know Before Hiking the Salkantay Trek

Acclimatization and altitude sickness on the salkantay trek.

The Salkantay trek is a high-altitude hike and comes with altitude sickness risks.

The highest altitude that you will reach on this trek is just over 4,600m / 15,092 ft) (4,900m / 16,076 ft if you do the Salkantay / Inca Trail Combo). This might be the highest altitude you have ever gone to outside of an airplane, which is remarkable when you think about it.

At this altitude, available oxygen per breath is nearly 45% less than what is available at sea level. This results in a number of physiological impacts.

It is difficult to predict how a higher altitude will personally affect you. There is very little correlation between altitude sickness symptoms and age, fitness, or gender.

However, we do know that going too high too fast is a key determinant of altitude sickness. Given enough time and adequate spacing, the body can adapt to higher and higher altitudes – this is called acclimatisation.

The trouble with treks to Machu Picchu is that most, if not all trekkers, start their journey from Cusco (3,399m / 11,151 ft). This city is already at a high altitude, making the potential of altitude sickness even greater.

It is important that you spend a few days (2 at a minimum) acclimatising in Cusco. You could also stay in the Sacred Valley before starting your trek. This area is nearly 1,000m / 3,281 ft below Cusco.

See more in our guide on acclimatisation and altitude sickness .

What Do I Pack for the Salkantay Trek?

There are a few key equipment items that you will need to take with you on your Salkantay trek.

I have written a very comprehensive packing list for the Inca Trail . This checklist is identical to what is needed for the Salkantay trek.

The only key difference is that mules are used to carry gear on the Salkantay trek instead of porters like on the classic Inca Trail.

The weight distribution between porters and mules is very similar. You will be given a tog bag and allowed to pack up to 5kg / 11 lbs. (7kg / 15.4 lbs. including a sleeping bag).

Basically, you will be packing a few changes of clothes and your toiletries. Include a small towel and warm layers for the evenings.

During the day, you will be carrying a daypack. This should contain your waterproof jacket, camera, snacks, hat, sunscreen, and other essentials.

Please Note: Don't pack anything delicate as the bags get fastened onto the mules and your items could be crushed.

Do I Need to Train for the Salkantay Trek?

The Salkantay trek is a moderate to tough hike, so you don’t need to be super-fit or a marathon runner. However, you should be in relatively good shape all the same. It will help to train for a few months before arriving in Cusco.

The best type of training you can do is aerobic cardiovascular exercise. This includes long-distance jogging, swimming, or cycling. Click here to read our  hiking training program . This provides some useful guidance on how best to prepare for the Salkantay trek.

Are There Toilets and Showers On The Salkantay Trek?

The Salkantay Trek goes through small villages and rural areas. Along the way, at regular intervals, you will find flushing toilets that you can pay 1 sole to use. Most of these bathrooms are fairly clean but don’t expect to find toilet seats or toilet paper. Be sure to pack a toilet roll in your backpack.

There are showers at almost every camp, particularly as you head towards Machu Picchu. Most of these are fairly basic and only have cold water. At some campsites, it is possible to pay up to 10 soles to have a hot shower.

• Hotel Paradis  
• Quechua Hostel Recoleta  

Is There Drinking Water On The Salkantay Trek?

It is not advisable to drink water along the trail. Rivers in this area pass through communities and there are many animals around. It’s better to be safe than sorry with drinking water on the Salkantay Trek.

If you have booked with a more expensive tour company, the chefs will boil water to refill your bottles each day. Budget Salkantay companies do not provide water.

You will have loads of opportunities to buy bottles of water at camps and along the trail. However, these are sold with a huge markup. A 1-litre bottle of water will cost between 6-10 soles. This adds up quickly if you are traveling on a tight budget.

I recommend being prepared and bringing a water bottle with a filter attached. Purification tablets are usually okay but are not 100% effective in every case, making filters more reliable.

Either way, fill up your bottle from high in the catchment or where the water is clean and flowing well. Never take water from below houses or where grazing animals are located.

How Much Does The Salkantay Trek Cost?

Like most treks to Machu Picchu, the costs vary quite dramatically. Here is a brief overview of the types of operators you will come across and their prices:

• Local Operators: $250-600 per person
• International Trek Operators: $400-$700 per person
• Private / Luxury Salkantay Treks: $800-$2000 per person

When it comes to local operators, it is important to note the quality of treks. There are huge variations in terms of service, equipment, guiding, facilities, and safety.

There are over 200 local trekking companies in Cusco alone. Generally, they are split into two types:

• Cheap local operators
• Responsible local operators

Cheap Local Operators

At the bottom of the market are the cheap local operators. These guys often cut corners and pay questionable wages to their staff. Their services often don’t stack up to their promises.

Cheap operators base prices on large groups of up to 16 trekkers. If they don’t reach this number, they will combine treks with another company.

Booking with a cheap operator doesn’t necessarily mean that you will have a bad experience. But the likelihood of poor service is much higher. If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is.

Prices for this type of operator often exclude certain key tour items. Usually, these are the bus tickets to Machu Picchu and return train tickets. Make sure you check what is included beforehand.

Responsible Local Operators

There are a number of great local trekking companies. These companies offer excellent services and run responsible operations.

Finding a responsible trekking company for the Salkantay Trail can be tough. I have picked out some of my favourite Salkantay trekking companies .

World Nomads has you covered so you can trek worry-free

Do You Need Insurance For The Salkantay Trek?

Insurance for your trek to Machu Picchu is a must. Most operators will require you to carry sufficient travel insurance for your trek.

As most trails to Machu Picchu go over high 4,000m / 13,123 ft passes, you will need to make sure your insurance covers you for high-altitude hiking (up to 6,000m / 19,685 ft).

We have reviewed a number of travel insurance providers and the most affordable and best by far is World Nomads .

I hope that I have answered many of your questions about the Salkantay trek. If you have any unanswered questions, please leave a comment below and we will respond within 24 hours.

Please feel free to share this page with friends and family or link to it from your blog. We always appreciate a shout-out on your social media page!

We very much welcome questions or feedback so that we can keep this article up to date. Thanks!

Tags: Salkantay Trek, Salkantay Trail, Salkantay Trekking, Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu, Salkantay Trek Peru, Camino Salkantay, Salkantay Pass, Salkantay Peru, Salkantay Trail Peru, Salcantay trail

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.

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Hi! I’m currently looking into doing the Salkantay trek at either half November or half December (around the 15th). I will be in Peru from the beginning of next week, so I could fly from Lima to Cuzco and do this trek at the beginning of my trip. Or, I will end with it, after traveling around for four months. I’m very worried about the weather in December, but on the other hand don’t know if it is “smart” to start Peru with the Machu Picchu (because of the altitude). Furthermore, I don’t know if there are any tickets still available. What is your opinion? Hoping to hear from you and thank you for your time.

Hi Noa, The weather can be quite unpredictable in December – usually there is quite a bit of rain, but you may get a glorious week. The altitude risk is really highest in Cusco. I recommend spending a few days relaxing in Cusco or the Sacred Valley before hiking the Salkantay – that way you can pre-acclimatise for the Saklkantay pass, which is the highest altitude you will reach. You should still be able to secure Machu Picchu entrance tickets – but worth checking with a few operators now instead of booking last minute.

I found this and the initial article re the Salcantay walk exceptionally good and informative, and clarified a great deal. I am in my early sixties fit and have hiked in NZ and Nepal, and would loke to trek in south America , the Salkanty, and the O or W track in Chile, and this article was very encouraging in respect to my aspiration to trek solo or at least independently of a tour group. I'm also trying to marry this up, no pun intended with travelling with my wife who is no so keen on extended day treks . Could she possibly take the train to Aguas Calientes, so we could do the last part of the trek to Machu Pichu together , then travel back together on the train/bus ?

Hi Warren, thanks for your kind feedback. Yes, your wife could take the train to Aguas Calientes to meet you. She’ll obviously need to hang around Cusco for 3-4 days whilst you hike the Salkantay. From Aguas Calientes it’s a relatively short and easy walk up to Machu Picchu. Most people take a bus for this section, but you and your wife could easily walk. You’ll probably want to stay the night in Aguas Calientes on the day of arrival and then hike up to Machu Picchu, do a guided tour and then get a train back. Hope this helps!

Hi! Great article! I’m thinking think to travel to Peru in mid March-April or in November, since I work from May to October. What do you think is a better month for trekking? I’ve seen the ‘rain’ chart and it seems that April would be my best option; but, in terms of landscape, do you think it will be nicer in April, after rain season, or in November, after dry season? Also, I would like to leave my backpack in Cuzco so I don’t have to carry too much weight during the trail, do you think this is possible?

Thank you very much!

Hi Alex, I would go in April, this is a better month than March – weather-wise – and the scenery is great too. In terms of your backpack, almost all hotels offer a storage facility for hikers so you shouldn’t have a problem leaving it in Cusco. All the best!

Hi Alison, you've written a great blog about the Salcantay trail! So very helpful! Such a gift! A couple of questions: I'm 66, in shape but no marathoner, and am wondering if I'm a suitable candidate for this hike? I'm thinking of taking the 8 day Cusco & Salkantay Trekking to Machu Picchu with your recommended outfit, Inkayni travel. An ignorant question: how do I dial their number from the US (California)? Thank you so much! Lori

Hi Lori Thank you so much for the response. I’m glad to know the info is useful! Yes, you are absolutely OK to do this hike. Just be sure to spend a few days in Cusco acclimatizing to the altitude. Also, take it easy and drink lots of water and coca tea. I suffered a bit from altitude sickness on one of my early hikes in Peru, it doesn’t discriminate by age and fitness level!

I have personally never tried dialing Peru from the USA but I believe you need to Dial 011 51 933 839 757. Hopefully that works.

Have an amazing trip!

Wow ! All great information ! Do I nedd to make some camp site reservation if i'll like to hike de Salkantay by my own? For a first experience, do you recommed with a guide tour or I can organise everything by my own? Thnaks

Hi Odrey, you are most welcome! From my experience, camp site reservations are not usually necessary. However, this trail gets busier every year and things change. If you can track down a number for camping/ accommodation, I’d say try to call. Of course you can do it on your own (it’s very manageable and the trail is easy enough to follow) but I sometimes find it’s nice to hike with a group. The social aspect is fun plus it takes away all the stress of planning. It’s up to you and depends on your travel style but, if it’s your first multi-day trek and you don’t speak any Spanish, I’d lean towards the guided option. If you do want to enquire about guided trips, I’d recommend checking out Skyhook Adventures. Hope that helps!

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Guide had excellent knowledge of perú and inca`s history, he was very friendly and provided an excellent service, the lunch was overall good and the ceremonies were excellent especially the cleansing ceremony., miss elizabeth kemp bronwyn, our tour guide was very concise with the information. he gave us great explanations; he kept us all walking a good pace, very approachable. food was good for the energy required to complete the trail. edwind is a fantastic tour guide, i loved the inca trail and the group we had; once in a lifetime opportunity., miss kristen barbara murphy, our guides were excellent, very knowledgeable and willing to stay back and take pictures, food was very good a big variety to choose from, was very nice being able to participate in the ceremonies, build the rock’s tributes was very interesting. all the tour was very amazing and breath taking views, once in a life time trek., mr ciancarl rodrigues, our tour guides were very informative, friendly, knowledgeable and willing to slow down and take pictures, we had a good amount of food, ceremonies were nice specially the rock ceremonies, the entire tour was amazing, once in a life experience,thank for guiding us, it will be recommended, salkantay (5 days - 4 nights).

The Salkantay Trek is truly spectacular with stunning views of Cusco second highest mountain; the Apu (Andean deity) Salkantay. The word Salkantay means “wild” in the Quechua language and as you approach to the jagged peaks, the big deeps carved out by its glacier and the glacier itself you can see why. We will camp by the Salkantay’s base to be near this sacred protector and will also be able to enjoy the company of hummingbirds and butterflies as we get into the high jungle area located at lower altitude. This is a trek of extremes ...   Read more

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Peru´s leading tour operator dedicated to providing wellness and adventure tours with a focus on healing. We offer our clients a unique experience, blending the excitement and challenge of the tours with the harmony and health effects of nature, mysticism and richness of culture found in Peruvian lands. TRAVEL & HEALING is a company that believes you should get the most out of your travels, which is why we have incorporated elements of well-being and growth in each and every one of our seven product lines.

T&H offers more than just a hike, horse ride or standard Machu Picchu tour. All of our programs are integrated with Peruvian shamanic ceremonies; our participants go deeper into the culture and soul of Peru, learning about and healing themselves in the process. This can only happen in the presence of skilled and experienced facilitators. As such, we only employ guides and shamans of the highest standard, and our horses are well cared for and frequently checked by veterinarians. Travel with us and have a Peruvian experience like no other.

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Salkantay trek operator; Is a local operator company from Cusco, 100% Peruvian, managed, and guided by local professional tour guides; adventure trips expert, specialized in: adventure hikes in Peru such as: Machu Picchu hiking tours, Humantay lake, Ancascocha hike, Choquequirao hike, day trips and expeditions in Cusco, and all paths running by this fantastic mountain range.

This is the highest peak of the Cordillera Vilcabamba, part of Peruvian Andes, located at about 60 km (40 miles) north-west of Cusco City, above valleys, which are tributaries of the Amazon River.

It is the 2 nd highest mountain of the region, the 38th highest Andes peak, second most topographically prominent peak, the twelfth highest mountain in Peru, situated in deeply incised terrain, with a great vertical relief, where doing hiking is pleasant.

This mountain was associated to concepts of rain, and fertility, Considered to be one of the principal deities, controlling the weather of the region, creating fascinating landscapes, where also is situated the wonderful Humantay lagoon, which is at an snow mountain slopes.

By Salkantay trek and Humantay lake tour guides

There are several old paths that leads to villages, sacred mountains, shrines, holly places, lakes, and to the sacred valley, to places such as: Ancascocha lake, and Machu Picchu, which with a knowledgeable local guide is absolutely more meaningful.

Some of our paths are new, trails that stays unknown by other companies, we are glad to be here, to organize you tours, by this fantastic land.

We are a group of tour guides, with many years of experience in cultural, day tours, and hiking; where our specialty are the trekking in the region.

We operate directly the hiking tours such as: Ancascocha trek, and all trails; that are connecting to the inca trail, and the sacred valley, cusco day hike, inca bridge, etc.

Partner of Inka Challenge Peru, we operate adventure journeys in the area, including shamanic ceremonies, cleansing rituals, day sightseeing’s, cultural journeys, Inca quarry tour, Vinicunca hike, short inca trail , choquequirao trip, and all Machu Picchu hiking tours.

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The name of our Company, comes for salkantay mountains, which means:  SALKAN = The Wildest, savage, and invincible and TAY = holly, Father, in (Runa-Simi = inca language). We are experts organizing trips through Salkantay range, trail such as the Ancascocha, and the trip to Humantay lake.

Come and take our service: all organized in private services, small groups, and large groups, providing personalized service, our adventure journeys goes by paths, known only by few local tour guides.

Daily departures for the fascinating Humantay lake , a nice blue color lagoon, situated below of a snow peak named Humantay, leaded in private tour, that engages every visitor who has done this hike.

For more information regarding our Salkantay trek, just write us; we will feedback ASAP.

Ancascocha trek to sacred valley, 5 days amazing hike by magnificent landscape,  offered only by few local companies.

5 days, classic hiking program to machu picchu, includes the visit to humantay lake,  all leaded by expert peru local guides

The humantay lake tours, is our day trip from Cusco, it brings you to enjoy the beauty of a fascinating blue lake in a full day program

Llamacancha Humantay Lake, 5 days new trip in Peru, by incredible paths, our exclusive new Cusco trekking trail, hike a secret path leaded by expert guides

4 days and 3 nights tour, from Salkantay to Machu Picchu, see wonderful landscapes, 2nighs in tent, and 1 in hotel, leads by the classic path, in short period

Hike connecting to the traditional inca trail, 6 days tour that starts at soraypampa, and joins the famous path on the 3th day, and reaches machu picchu

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Throughout the trek, hikers encounter diverse ecosystems, including lush cloud forests, barren high-altitude plains, and subtropical valleys. The trail passes through remote Andean villages, providing opportunities to interact with local communities and learn about their traditional way of life. Many trekkers are captivated by the hospitality and warmth of the Peruvian people they meet along the way.

As the Salkantay Trek approaches its final stages, trekkers make their way to the village of Aguas Calientes, also known as Machu Picchu Pueblo. From there, they have the option to visit the awe-inspiring Machu Picchu ruins, one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. It’s a truly magical experience to explore the ancient Inca citadel, marveling at its architectural brilliance and the incredible mountain backdrop.

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Salkantay Trek is a renowned trekking route in the Cusco region of Peru, offering adventurers a thrilling and picturesque journey through the Andes Mountains. Named after the majestic Salkantay Mountain, which reaches an impressive height of 6,271 meters (20,574 feet), this trek has gained popularity as an alternative to the traditional Inca Trail leading to Machu Picchu.

The Salkantay Trek is known for its diverse landscapes, challenging terrain, and breathtaking scenery. It typically takes around five days to complete, covering a distance of approximately 74 kilometers (46 miles). The trek starts from the town of Mollepata, located at an elevation of 2,800 meters (9,186 feet), and concludes at the famous archaeological site of Machu Picchu.

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The Salkantay Trek is a popular alternative trekking route to Machu Picchu in Peru. It's named after the stunning Salkantay Mountain, which is one of the highest peaks in the Andes mountain range. This trek is known for its breathtaking landscapes, diverse ecosystems, and challenging terrain. Here's some key information about the Salkantay Trek:

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Our experienced team has been leading tours through this breathtaking landscape since 2006, and we’re committed to providing you with an unforgettable experience. From the rugged terrain to the diverse flora and fauna, our expert guides will help you navigate this incredible route, ensuring your safety and enjoyment every step of the way.

We offer a range of tour packages to suit any budget and preference, including both group and private tours, as well as a variety of trekking routes to choose from. And with our commitment to sustainability and responsible tourism, you can feel good knowing that you’re making a positive impact on the local community and environment.

So whether you’re an experienced trekker or a first-timer, join us on the adventure of a lifetime. Book your Salkantay Trek with Salkantay Trekking today and discover the beauty of Peru like never before.

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Salkantay Treks Peru  is a travel agency based in Cusco, Peru that specializes in organizing guided treks and tours to Machu Picchu and other popular destinations in the Andean region. Specifically, Salkantay Treks offers treks along the Salkantay route, which is an alternative to the classic Inca Trail trek.

The Salkantay trek is a challenging but rewarding 5-day trek that takes you through diverse landscapes, from high Andean mountains to lush cloud forests, before reaching the famous ruins of Machu Picchu. Salkantay Treks offers several variations of this trek, including the classic Salkantay trek, the Salkantay trek with a visit to Humantay Lake, and the Salkantay trek with a visit to Llaqtapata ruins.

In addition to the Salkantay trek, Salkantay Treks Peru also offers other tours and activities in and around Cusco, such as city tours, Sacred Valley tours, and visits to other Inca ruins like Pisac and Ollantaytambo.

OUR LOCAL GUIDES

Our guides are all local experts, born and raised in Cusco and well-versed in the area’s history and culture. They possess a wealth of knowledge on the city’s hidden treasures, the top spots to dine, shop, and discover. Their goal is to curate a customized, genuine experience that caters to your specific interests and desires, ensuring it’s unforgettable.

With the aid of our knowledgeable guides, you’ll be able to explore the historical Inca ruins of Machu Picchu and the Sacred Valley, as well as the vibrant markets and neighborhoods of Cusco. You’ll gain an in-depth appreciation of the city’s rich heritage and customs, departing with cherished memories that will last a lifetime.

OUR SPECIALIAZED CHEFS

Not only are our chefs skilled in culinary arts, but they are also proficient in catering to dietary restrictions and preferences. Whether you’re a vegan, vegetarian, or have other dietary requirements, our chefs strive to create mouth-watering meals that accommodate your needs.

When you’re miles away from civilization, having a specialized chef on your trek implies you can indulge in delicious, home-cooked meals. Our chefs will ensure you’re satisfied and energized throughout your journey with hot breakfasts and delectable dinners.

We believe that the appropriate food is crucial for a successful trek, and we take great pride in selecting and training our specialized chefs. So why settle for uninspiring and unappetizing meals on your trek when you can relish the culinary creations of our talented chefs? Reserve your trek with us today and experience the difference for yourself.

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Salkantay Treks to Machu Picchu

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.

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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.

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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

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Salkantay Trek & Machu Picchu

• Hiking & Trekking
• Mountain Hikes
• Fully Guided

Traveled in August 2022

Places You’ll See

• Explore Cusco on your arrival day
• Hike the Salkantay Trail with mountain views
• Camp under the stars in the Andes
• Catch first glimpse of Machu Picchu at Llactapata
• Tour Machu Picchu before returning to Cusco

• Introduction
• Day 1 Cusco
• Day 2 Cusco/Salkantay Trek (1B, 1L, 1D)
• Day 3 Salkantay Trek (1B, 1L, 1D)
• Day 4 Salkantay Trek (1B, 1L)
• Day 5 Machu Picchu/Cusco (1B)

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Download this tour’s PDF brochure and start tour planning offline

What's Included

• Accommodation
• Additional Services

Where You'll Stay

Hotel de la Villa Hermoza

Hotel Wiracocha Inn

Customer Photos

Operated by

G Adventures

Number of tours

12 to 90 years old

Response time

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G Adventures gives you the opportunity to explore interesting and unusual places at a great price. The G Adventures reviews show high ratings from satisfied customers for all aspects of the trip, so you can be assured that you will be in good hands. If you have any questions at any time during...

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Cancellation policy.

A transparent overview of applicable fees.

Customer Reviews

• Overall Rating Excellent 4.9
• Itinerary Excellent 4.6
• Guide Excellent 5.0
• Transport Excellent 4.8
• Accommodation Excellent 4.3
• Food Excellent 4.9
• Tour Operator G Adventures 4.7
• Most Recent
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• A Gareth Davis · 6th October 2022 I cannot recommend this tour highly enough. We were pushed outside our comfort zone and challenged each day but were eternally grateful for it. Did nit feel touristy or like cattle at any point. Peru is my 47th country I've visited and this tour... Show more Trip date: May 2022 Review collected by G Adventures
• A Sarah Lock · 6th October 2022 Amazing! So glad I opted for the Salkantay Trek and our guide (Eva) made the whole experience even better! Trip date: May 2022 Review collected by G Adventures
• A Jack Szumowski · 6th March 2022 It was a wonderful experience that helped me to connect with new people from all walks of life and cultures. I hope to become a better person after seeing how the highland people interact with each other treating everyone as brother and sister. How it... Show more Trip date: May 2022 Review collected by G Adventures
• A Rachel Smith · 6th March 2022 My experience exceeded my expectations. I enjoyed every part of my trip, and I?m lucky to have had such a great CEO that provided so much information about the local cultures and historic sites. Trip date: May 2022 Review collected by G Adventures
• A Gwendolyn van den Berg · 6th May 2022 Great adventure, not easy but definitly worth it! Well organised and nice to be with a small group in order to learn about each other, but also to enjoy the surroundings Trip date: May 2022 Review collected by G Adventures

Dates & Availability

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What our customers ask about this tour

We strive to accommodate dietary restrictions, please inform us in advance so arrangements can be made.

Yes, travelers under the age of 18 must be accompanied by an adult, and there are specific fitness requirements due to the nature of the trek.

The cancellation policy varies based on how close to the departure date the booking is cancelled. Details are provided during booking or upon request.

Ensure your travel insurance covers medical expenses, emergency evacuation, and repatriation to your home country, covering at least $200,000 per traveler.

Payments are securely processed and we accept major credit cards. For more details, you can inquire directly on our booking platform.

Meals are provided during the trek. Specific meal arrangements can be discussed during the trek briefing.

The group sizes can vary, but typically, we accommodate smaller groups to ensure a personalized experience. Please check for specific tour dates for exact group sizes.

Prices vary depending on the season and availability. Please refer to our website or contact us directly for the most accurate pricing.

You must attend the welcome meeting on day one around 5pm, but can physically join the tour on day two.

This is indeed a backpacking adventure. Daily hike distances vary, but comprehensive details can be provided upon request.

Good to Know

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• These are only indications, so please visit your doctor before you travel to be 100% sure.
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• Yellow fever - Recommended for Peru. Ideally 10 days before travel.
• Unfortunately we cannot offer you a visa application service. Whether you need a visa or not depends on your nationality and where you wish to travel. Assuming your home country does not have a visa agreement with the country you're planning to visit, you will need to apply for a visa in advance of your scheduled departure.
• Here is an indication for which countries you might need a visa. Please contact the local embassy for help applying for visas to these places.
• For any tour departing before 24th October 2024 a full payment is necessary. For tours departing after 24th October 2024, a minimum payment of 20% is required to confirm your booking with G Adventures. The final payment will be automatically charged to your credit card on the designated due date. The final payment of the remaining balance is required at least 45 days prior to the departure date of your tour. TourRadar never charges you a booking fee and will charge you in the stated currency.
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• Salkantay Trek

Salkantay Trek Information

Find out what this trek is all about. Giving you an overview of the route, terrain, length and what’s involved in this section will help you decide if this trek is right for you.

About the Salkantay Hike

The Salkantay Trek is a high mountain pass trek that will challenge you more than our other experiences over a 5D/4N Route. It is the most popular trek, 2nd only to the Inca Trail   as it allows you to not only end up at cloud forest to behold the amazing Machu Picchu but also travel through snowy mountains passes and descend into warm tropical rainforest. The route boasts the famed Salkantay Mountain / Nevada Salkantay, which is one of the highest mountains in the Peruvian Andes. Another basis for its appeal is to see this majestic snow capped peak. You have no need to purchase a permit to undertake this trek, unlike the Inca Trail

Sites on the Salkantay Route

The Salkantay Trek is rated by ‘The National Geographic’s adventure magazine’ as one of the best 25 hikes in the world. So if you are an avid hiker, explorer, nature lover or photographer and want to push yourselves with extremes, this is the trek for you. Unlike other treks you will see a wider variety of Flora and Fauna due to the drastic change in landscape. We would classify the Inca Trail trek as a historical and cultural tour with elements of hard trekking, however, our Salkantay route is predominantly focused on nature, the environment and on the challenging hike through diverse landscapes, with bonuses of cultural and historical sites.

Considerations

Salkantay can be an arduous trek which is why may choose to go through a tour operator and be accompanied by experienced guides. However, due to the fact there is no permit required you are able to undertake this route alone. You will still need to pre-purchase Machu Picchu if you which to visit this at the end of your trek. We strongly advise if you are wanting to pursue this adventure without a guide or through a company then; go in minimum party of 2, have knowledge of navigation, have a high level of fitness and purchase the correct equipment (including a map) and food.

When is the best season to do Salkantay Trek?

The wet season between November-April will guarantee you rain, you may be in luck with showers between November and December. However, January to March you are going to encounter some fairly big downpours. This is the warmer season so if you are not put off by rain you get the benefits of warmer days and nights. The dry season between May and October graces you with wonderful sunshine in the days and clearer skies which means you be able to see the views without cloud and fog. Although, at night the temperature can drop close to freezing or below. 

How to make a Booking

Contact Email of lead participant Name of lead participant Passport number of lead participant Country of nationality (If mixed within the group, please you nationality of lead participant) Numbers attending (Adults and Children) How you wish to pay (This will not automatically create payment)

Have Any Question?

• +51 084 268688
• +51 984496050
• info@southernperuexplo rers.com
• Caller Garcilaso 265 - Cusco Peru

Flora and fauna of the Inca Trail

Inca Jungle Information

Inca jungle information 2024, are you ready for the adventure of a lifetime.

Contact us for quotes or help you need. We are here to help you 7 days a week and respond within 24 Hours.

Our Top Line of gear

 We recognize that quality gear can make or break an outdoor adventure experience, and have hand-selected the top quality products to ensure you have the best possible experience on your adventures with us. ​

Salkantay Trek: The Best Tour Operators

There are 177 authorized companies that offer treks, and they are published in a list on the INC website (you need to enter their intranet as a guest). Inclusion on this list does not in any way guarantee that the company will provide a quality service, and many of the companies listed we have never heard of.

It should be noted that operating licenses are only issued to Peruvian trekking companies that meet minimum requirements. Licenses are not issued to overseas tour operators. This means that if you book your trek with a company outside of Peru then one of the companies included on the list will operate your tour.

Being listed in one or several guide books is probably the best indication that previous travellers have been satisfied with the services provided, although recently established companies providing a good service may take a while to develop a reputation. A great looking website does not always equate to a great tour.

Where to Find the Best Tour Operators?

In the past, we have included some of the most popular Inca Trail tour operators. For this 2018 update, we have tried booking via FindLocalTrips , a search and comparison website for tours and activities across South America, and we have been more than pleased with the service provided. As we have experienced first hand, the companies listed on their platform have been diligently evaluated and selected .

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