Salkantay Trek
Let’s go on and conquer the Salkantay Treks! This epic alternative journey full of amazing views on the way to Machu Picchu has to be your next adventure!
Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu: The alternative route
This alternative route to the Inca Trail, it offers a variety of ecosystems where there are snow capped peaks, cloud forests and amazing views. Hiking this epic terrains will lead you to Machu Picchu with fewer crowds than other routes.
Are you ready to go on this challenge?
Discover the best Salkantay Trek tour for you
Check out the tours we’ve carefully prepared for you, each one is thoughtfully designed to give you an unforgettable experience in the Andes. Whether you’re after a challenging adventure or a more relaxed journey, you’ll find the perfect trek to match your style. Discover your next destination and start planning your trip with us today!
Why choose this trekking route in the Andes?
This trek is only for travelers who like to challenge themselves into new adventures. The good thing is that during the whole journey you get the guidance of experienced professionals committed to ensuring your safety and comfort. These are some reasons why you should definitely go on this trek route:
Breathtaking diversity in landscapes: During this trek you will see a variety of ecosystems as you trek, from dense cloud forests to snow-covered peaks of the Andes. This trek offers the opportunity to witness Peru’s natural beauty up close.
Challenging terrain for adventurers: This trek is perfect for those seeking a physically demanding but incredibly rewarding experience, because you will go on high-altitude paths and rugged trails.
A peaceful journey off the beaten path: This trek offers a more serene route to Machu Picchu, since it’s not as crowded as the Inca Trail. That way, you can connect more deeply with the surrounding wilderness.
How to prepare for salkantay trek
If you’re planning an unforgettable trekking adventure through the heart of the Peruvian Andes, this guide will give you everything you need to feel confident and fully prepared before setting out on your journey.
Physical preparation
The Salkantay pass is a moderate to challenging hike, and it requires you to have some strength level. To be completely ready, you can start training a few months before your trip by doing regular hikes, running, or cycling on your daily routine. To build some strenght in your legs and core, the ideal exercises are lunges, squats, and planks.
Mental preparation
Trekking at high altitudes can be mentally demanding, so setting realistic training goals is important. Visualization techniques can help build confidence, imagine yourself going on high points like the Salkantay Pass (4,600m / 15,091ft) and at the same time enjoying the stunning views. Knowing the route and potential challenges will also help reducing your anxiety and improve your experience.
Packing
Packing the right gear is crucial for a comfortable and successful trek. Choose a 50-60L backpack with adjustable straps to evenly distribute weight. Wear moisture-wicking base layers, insulating mid-layers, and a waterproof jacket to stay prepared for changing weather conditions.
Well-fitted, waterproof hiking boots are essential, and they should be broken in before the trek. A four-season sleeping bag and sleeping pad will ensure warmth and comfort during nights at high altitudes. Carry a hydration system (water bottle or hydration bladder) with purification tablets, and pack high-energy snacks such as nuts, dried fruits, and protein bars to maintain stamina.
Altitude and acclimatization
Altitude sickness is a common concern for trekkers. To minimize the risk, spend at least 2-3 days in Cusco before the trek to allow your body to adjust. Engage in light activities and short hikes during this time. Staying hydrated, avoiding alcohol, and ascending gradually will also help your body adapt.
If you experience symptoms such as headache, nausea, or dizziness, inform your guide immediately. Early detection and proper acclimatization will ensure a safer and more enjoyable trek.
Why choose Machu Picchu Tours for the Salkantay Trek?
One of the best options for the Salkantay adventure is Machu Picchu Tours. Our commitment to quality, safety, and an absolutely remarkable experience has earned us the trust of travelers time and time again.
Expert guides with deep local knowledge
Our guides are true authorities on the history, culture, and geography of the area; they are not just experienced hikers. Their insights will allow you to delve deeply into the local communities’ rich traditions and landscapes, making your trek much more meaningful and immersive.
Seamless and well-organized logistics
At Machu Picchu Tours, the logistics are not what you worry about, because we take care of every detail, from transportation and meals to accommodations and porters. This way you can only focus on enjoying the trek, knowing that all the logistical aspects are taken care of. We handle permits, transportation to the trailhead, and provide nutritious, energy-boosting meals to fuel your hike.
Commitment to safety and health
Your safety is always our first priority. We have guides who are trained to help you in every situation, they know what to do in altitude sickness situation, plus, they carefully monitor each trekker’s condition to be sure they are in well health conditions and enjoying the journey.
Personalized and intimate experience
We truly believe a personalized experience is best for focusing on what each person needs. That’s why we keep our group sizes small. This way, our guides can tailor the trips and make sure every trekker feels comfortable throughout the whole journey.
Book your next adventure with us
We are ready to take you on an experience you will never forget because we make sure you have a guided and worry-free tour.
FAQs about the Salkantay Treks
This trek is a truly remarkable way to reach Machu Picchu, famous for its stunning scenery and deep cultural connections. To help you get ready for this experience, we’ve put together some frequently asked questions below.
1.How difficult is the salkantay trek?
The trek is widely considered moderate to challenging. That’s mostly because of the high-altitude conditions and the varied ground you’ll cover, which includes tough uphill climbs, descents, and mountain passes. So, getting your body ready and truly getting used to the altitude are absolutely vital for a successful trek.
2. When is the best time to do the Salkantay Trek?
The dry season, which lasts from May to September, is unquestionably the ideal time of year to undertake the trek. Trekking conditions are much better during these months because the weather is typically much more stable. The rainy season, which runs from November to March, on the other hand, can make the trails extremely slick and much more difficult, so it’s generally not advised during that time.
3. What kind of altitude changes should I expect during the trek?
The Salkantay Trek begins at about 2,000 meters (6,562 feet) above sea level and ascends to 4,600 meters (15,091 feet) above sea level, the highest point of the trek. The trail then progressively descends to Machu Picchu, which is roughly 2,430 meters (7,972 feet) above sea level. A truly dynamic experience that showcases both high-mountain and tropical ecosystems is provided by the trek’s extensive altitude variation.
4. Is it possible to do this trek without a guide?
Although you could certainly do the Salkantay Trek alone, it’s actually a very wise decision to travel with a guide. In addition to helping you adjust to the high altitude, a professional guide ensures that you stay on the correct route, which isn’t always clear out there. Additionally, they offer fascinating perspectives on the local way of life and the environment.
5. How long is the mountain pass section of the trek?
The Salkantay Trek typically takes five days to complete, though this really depends on the itinerary you choose. Although some companies do provide a 4-day version, it usually spans five days, allowing you enough time to adjust to the different altitudes and terrain.