Salkantay Trekking stands out as one of the most scenic alternative routes to Machu Picchu, offering a more adventurous and diverse journey through the Andes via the Salkantay Trail. The route passes towering snow-capped peaks, glacial valleys, alpine meadows, and lush cloud forests that display the natural beauty of Peru. The Salkantay trek to Machu Picchu presents a challenging experience that suits trekkers with strong fitness, as the trail reaches elevations above 4,600 meters and requires steady pacing across rugged terrain. Growing interest in the Salkantay hike continues as trekkers seek dramatic landscapes, cultural immersion, and a less crowded path to one of Peru’s most iconic destinations, the ultimate Machu Picchu hike.
4,650 meters (15,255 feet) at Salkantay Pass
72 kilometers (45 miles) for the standard 5-day route
4 to 5 days, depending on chosen itinerary, with 5 days being the most popular option
Why Choose the Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu?
The Salkantay Trek offers an adventure through diverse ecosystems, combining high-altitude mountain scenery with subtropical valleys and the ultimate reward. The route provides flexibility, accessibility, and encounters with local Andean communities, making it a meaningful alternative to the classic Inca Trail.
Authentic Andean Experience
Interact with local communities, see traditional farming practices, and submerge in Andean culture.
No Permit Restrictions
The Salkantay Trek does not require government quotas, unlike the Inca Trail, allowing flexible booking.
Spectacular Mountain Scenery
Snow-capped peaks, turquoise glacial lakes, and panoramic views of Mount Salkantay (6,271m).
Less Crowded Adventure
Enjoy peaceful trails with smaller groups and fewer tourists compared to the Inca Trail.
Challenging Yet Rewarding
Suitable for fit trekkers, with the highlight being the crossing of the Salkantay Pass at 4,650m.
Diverse Ecosystems
Experience alpine terrain, cloud forests, waterfalls, and subtropical valleys in one trek.
Trek Overview
The Journey
- The salkantay hike begins in Mollepata, ascending through Soraypampa and crossing the dramatic Salkantay Pass at 4,650 meters. The trail descends into cloud forests and subtropical valleys, passing waterfalls, coffee plantations, and small villages. The journey culminates with a scenic walk along the train tracks to Aguas Calientes, followed by the unforgettable visit to Machu Picchu.
Challenge Level
- Difficulty: Moderate to Challenging. The trek requires good physical fitness and proper acclimatization to altitude.
- Best Time to Visit: May to September (dry season). Accessible year-round, but the wet season (November to March) brings muddy trails and cloudy views.
Best Price Packages
Choose the perfect Salkantay Trek To Machu Picchu Peru Salkantay trekking adventure.
5-Day Classic Salkantay Trek
Per Person
Difficulty: Challenging
Package Inclusions:-
- Professional English-speaking guide
- All meals in trek (breakfasts, lunches, dinners)
- Camping equipment (tents, sleeping mats) or lodge accommodations
- Porter or mule service for camping gear
- Entrance ticket to Machu Picchu
- Train ticket (Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes)
- Round-trip bus to Machu Picchu
- First aid kit and oxygen bottle
4-Day Short Salkantay Express
Per Person
Difficulty: Challenging
Package Inclusions:-
- Professional English-speaking guide
- All meals in trek (breakfasts, lunches, dinners)
- Camping equipment (tents, sleeping mats) or lodge accommodations
- Porter or mule service for camping gear
- Entrance ticket to Machu Picchu
- Train ticket (Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes)
- Round-trip bus to Machu Picchu
- First aid kit and oxygen bottle
5-Day Luxury Salkantay Experience
Per Person
Difficulty: Challenging
Package Inclusions:-
- Professional English-speaking guide
- All meals in trek (breakfasts, lunches, dinners)
- Camping equipment (tents, sleeping mats) or lodge accommodations
- Porter or mule service for camping gear
- Entrance ticket to Machu Picchu
- Train ticket (Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes)
- Round-trip bus to Machu Picchu
- First aid kit and oxygen bottle
Ready for Your Salkantay Adventure?
Join thousands of trekkers who have discovered the magic of the Salkantay Trail. Limited spots available for peak season!
Salkantay Trek To Machu Picchu, Peru Review
This review of the Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu shares firsthand insights into the trail’s scenery, difficulty, organization, and overall experience, helping travelers understand what to expect from this iconic Andean adventure from mountain passes and glacial lakes to the unforgettable arrival at Machu Picchu.
Salkantay Trek Difficulty
The Salkantay trek is regarded as a demanding adventure that
requires strong physical conditioning and careful acclimatization. Hikers encounter high-altitude
environments with the trail’s highest point at Salkantay Pass, reaching 4,650 meters, where thinner air
triggers altitude-related challenges. The route combines steep climbs, rugged descents, and dramatic
shifts in climate, from icy mountain to warm, humid jungle terrain. It covers long daily stretches of 6
to 9 hours, and the trek tests endurance, balance, and mental resilience across its varied terrain.
4,650 meters (15,255 feet) at Salkantay Pass
4 to 5 days (depending on itinerary choice)
76 kilometers (47 miles)
Challenging
The Difficulty of the Salkantay Trek by Fitness Level
| Fitness Level | Difficulty Rating | Recommendation | Preparation Time | Details |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Beginner | Very Challenging | Not Recommended | 6+ months of intensive training | High altitude (up to 4,650m) and steep terrain make the trek extremely difficult for beginners. |
| Intermediate | Challenging | Possible with Preparation | 3–4 months training | Achievable with proper acclimatization and conditioning. Expect fatigue and altitude effects. |
| Advanced | Moderate | Recommended | 1–2 months training | Well-suited for experienced hikers. Manageable with pacing and altitude awareness. |
| Expert | Manageable | Highly Recommended | Maintain regular fitness | Comfortable experience for seasoned trekkers. Altitude is the main challenge. |
Overall Difficulty Assessment
The Salkantay Trek is classified as challenging due to its high altitude, long daily distances, and
rugged terrain. The difficulty stems from reduced oxygen levels above 4,000 meters combined with
steep ascents and descents. Climatic variation, from snow-covered passes to humid jungle, adds
additional strain on trekkers.
Day-by-Day Difficulty Breakdown of the Salkantay Trek
| Day | Distance | Duration | Max Altitude | Elevation Change | Difficulty | Terrain Type |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Day 1 | 14 km | 6–7 hours | 3,800 m | +800 m | Moderate | Gradual climbs through valleys and campsites |
| Day 2 | 22 km | 8–9 hours | 4,650 m | +850 m / -1,500 m | Very Challenging | Steep ascent to Salkantay Pass, long descent into cloud forest |
| Day 3 | 16 km | 6–7 hours | 2,900 m | -700 m | Moderate | Jungle paths, river crossings, humid conditions |
| Day 4 | 18 km | 7–8 hours | 2,400 m | -500 m | Moderate | Rolling jungle terrain, coffee plantations, village paths |
| Day 5 | Travel Day | 2–3 hours | 2,000 m | Not applicable | Easy | Train/bus travel and Machu Picchu visit |
sustained descent.
Physical Challenges and Mitigation on the Salkantay Trek
| Challenge Category | Maximum Exposure | Severity | Potential Symptoms | Mitigation Strategies |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Altitude | 4,650 m | Very High | Headache, nausea, dizziness, short breath | Spend several days acclimatizing in Cusco, ascend slowly, hydrate frequently |
| Distance | Up to 22 km daily | High | Muscle fatigue, blisters, joint stress | Use broken-in boots, pace evenly, stretch daily |
| Terrain | Steep rocky passes | High | Knee pain, ankle strain, slips | Use trekking poles, wear supportive boots, watch foot placement |
| Weather | Freezing nights, strong sun | High | Hypothermia risk, sunburn, dehydration | Dress in layers, apply sunscreen, carry rain gear |
| Remote Camps | Limited facilities | Moderate | Fatigue, stomach discomfort | Maintain hygiene, rest well, treat water |
Altitude Sickness Warning
Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS) is common above 4,000 meters. Symptoms include severe headache,
nausea, loss of appetite, and sleep disturbances. Immediate descent is required if breathing
difficulty or worsening symptoms appear.
Success Tips
Maintain a slow and steady pace while hiking, fuel your body with carbohydrate-rich meals, and
communicate any symptoms clearly with your guides. Make sure to rest in peak sun hours to avoid
exhaustion, and carry electrolytes to stay hydrated consistently throughout the journey.
Fitness Requirements and Training Guide for the Salkantay Trek
| Fitness Aspect | Requirement Level | Recommended Training |
|---|---|---|
| Cardiovascular Endurance | Very High | Jogging, cycling, or swimming 45–60 minutes several times weekly |
| Leg Strength | Very High | Squats, lunges, stair climbing with a weighted backpack |
| Core Stability | High | Planks, balance exercises, and weighted carries |
| Mental Resilience | High | Long hikes in mixed weather and practice discomfort tolerance |
| Altitude Tolerance | Variable | Early arrival in Cusco with acclimatization hikes |
3 Month Training Plan
Months 1 to 2: Build cardio fitness with regular workouts and begin leg strength training.
Complete weekend hikes between 10 and 15 km.
Month 2: Increase workout length and add a weighted backpack to hikes. Practice hiking on
consecutive days.
Month 3: Maintain conditioning while reducing injury risk. Complete one long hike over 20 km
three weeks before departure.
Throughout: Stretch daily, sleep well, hydrate consistently, and train with trekking boots
and gear.
Essential Preparation for Salkantay Trek
- Practice multiple hikes longer than 15 km
- Train with a backpack matching trek weight
- Break in hiking boots fully
- Test clothing and gear before travel
- Strengthen ankles and knees
- Schedule a medical checkup
- Confirm vaccinations
- Practice hydration and trail nutrition
The Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu is considered a demanding high-altitude journey that requires strong physical preparation and endurance. Trekkers face elevations reaching up to 4,650 meters at Salkantay Pass, where oxygen levels drop, and the risk of altitude sickness increases. The full distance covers about 76 kilometers over five days, with daily sections ranging from 13 to 22 kilometers. Each stage presents unique terrain, from rocky mountain paths to humid jungle trails, requiring stamina and adaptability.Hiking days average 6 to 9 hours, with conditions shifting from freezing nights in the Andes to warmer, wetter climates in the cloud forest. Adjustment in Cusco before departure helps reduce altitude risks, while endurance training supports long walking hours. Proper gear for cold and tropical environments is required to handle rapid climate changes. The trek rewards hikers who complete it with views of snow-capped peaks, valleys, and the final arrival at Machu Picchu. The challenge is best described under the classification of Salkantay Trek Difficulty, highlighting the reputation as one of the most challenging yet most rewarding alternatives to the Inca Trail.
The Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu lasts 5 days and 4 nights, covering 76 kilometers (47 miles) from the Andes to the cloud forest before reaching the Inca citadel. Travelers choose the standard 5-day itinerary, which includes a gradual ascent to the Salkantay Pass at 4,650 meters, followed by a descent through valleys and jungle terrain. Shorter options exist (a 3-day express trek) for trekkers with limited time and a 4-day classic trek that balances challenge and comfort. Each version maintains the core highlights, the Humantay Lake, the high pass, and the final approach to Machu Picchu.Day-by-day schedules of Salkantay vary slightly, but the structure remains consistent. Day 1 begins with the hike to Humantay Lake, Day 2 crosses the Salkantay Pass, Day 3 transitions into jungle trails and Santa Teresa hot springs, Day 4 leads to Aguas Calientes, and Day 5 concludes with a guided visit to Machu Picchu. The breakdown helps trekkers gauge walking hours, altitude changes, and recovery time, ensuring they select the itinerary that best matches their fitness level and travel plan.
Yes, the Salkantay Trek is suitable for beginners, but only for trekkers who commit to proper preparation and understand the physical demands of high-altitude trekking. The route reaches 4,650 meters at Salkantay Pass, where oxygen levels are lower, and altitude sickness is a risk. Daily walking stretches between 6 and 9 hours, covering steep climbs, rocky descents, and varied terrain from cold mountain passes to humid jungle paths. The trek becomes achievable and rewarding, without training and acclimatization, trekkers struggle, yet with the right approach.First-time trekkers must train consistently, focusing on cardio exercises (running, cycling, or swimming) to build stamina. Strengthen legs and core through squats, lunges, and weighted hikes to prepare for uneven terrain. Acclimatize in Cusco for at least two days before starting to reduce altitude risks. Pack smart by carrying layered clothing for cold nights and humid days, sturdy boots for rocky paths, and hydration supplies to maintain energy. Pace the trail, rest when needed, and fuel with balanced meals. Trekkers transform the challenge into a manageable adventure and gain the confidence to complete the trek successfully by following the steps.
When is the Best Time to Do the Salkantay Trek?
The best time to do the Salkantay Trek is the dry season. The dry season from May to September is the best time to trek to Salkantay. Trekkers experience clear skies, mountain views, dry trails, and optimal hiking conditions. The reliable weather and scenery make it worthwhile, but the season is busier and more expensive. June and July provide the most stable conditions, but nighttime temperatures drop. The experience is marked by dependable trekking conditions, making the period the Best Time To Hike And Climb Machu Picchu.
FAQ About Salkantay Trekking