5 reasons to visit Salkantay and discover rural life in the Andes

Traveling the Salkantay offers you a deep connection with Peruvian nature. You will notice that this trail is much more than a physical challenge toward Machu Picchu. For this reason, we share 5 reasons to visit Salkantay and see its rural life up close.

1. You will experience daily life in Mollepata up close

This district is the starting point of our adventure through the mountain range. There, you will see how families maintain their customs despite the growth of tourism.

The lifestyle in the high-Andean homesteads

We will walk through areas where livestock is the main engine of the economy. You will see how the residents raise alpacas and sheep on the mountainsides.

These homesteads are usually far from the noise of the cities. Thanks to this, you will enjoy absolute silence during the first hours of the hike.

• You will observe houses built with local materials like adobe.
• You will notice the use of traditional clothing made of natural wool.
• You will learn about the grazing system they have practiced for centuries.

The fundamental role of local muleteers

At Trails to Machu Picchu, we work directly with the local inhabitants. They are in charge of leading the horses that carry the equipment.

Their work is vital because they know every stone on the path. In addition, they will help you understand the local geography thanks to their daily experience in the hills.

You will notice that their connection with the pack animals is very respectful. Therefore, we highly value their effort so that your luggage arrives safely at each campsite.

2. You will observe the environmental impact on the Salkantay Snow-capped Mountain

This mountain is one of the most imposing in the Vilcabamba Mountain Range. During the journey, you will witness the changes the Andean ecosystem is undergoing.

Glacial retreat on the Salkantay Snow-capped Mountain

We tell you that a 2021 INAIGEM report showed concerning data regarding the melting. The glacier has lost a significant surface area due to climate change.

In practice, this means that you will see new lagoons formed by the meltwater. For this reason, we recommend that you observe these summits with great respect and environmental awareness.

1. You will identify the marks the ice has left on the rocks.
2. You will hear the sound of water running from the high peaks.
3. You will understand why water is so valuable for local farmers.

Temperature variation during the hike

You will notice that the weather changes drastically every few hours. You will go from intense sun in the valleys to a piercing cold near the snow-capped mountain.

Added to this is the humidity that increases as you descend toward the jungle. For this reason, we suggest that you always dress in layers throughout the journey.

Mornings in the puna

The cold is usually intense before the sun comes out. Therefore, you should have your thermal clothing at hand when waking up.

Afternoons in the cloud forest

As you head down toward Santa Teresa, the heat becomes heavier. You will feel how the environment fills with life and tropical vegetation.

3. You will learn about agricultural traditions in the valleys

The route crosses different ecological zones with very varied microclimates. This allows the residents to grow a great diversity of organic products.

Coffee farming in Santa Teresa

Upon reaching the lower areas, you will see extensive coffee plantations. Many local producers have won international awards for the quality of their beans.

We usually visit these farms so that you can learn about the harvesting process. In addition, you will be able to taste a freshly roasted cup together with the farmers themselves.

It is one of the best 5 reasons to visit Salkantay and support the local economy. Thus, your trip has a direct and positive impact on the community.

Medicinal plants of the Andes

During the hike, your guides will show you various herbs that grow wild. The inhabitants have used them since ancient times to cure common ailments.

For example, you will see muña, which is ideal for relieving digestive problems. You will also find chilca, frequently used to reduce muscle inflammation after walking.

• We will teach you how to identify the cantuta flower.
• You will learn to differentiate the types of orchids in the cloud forest.
• You will be able to smell the natural essences that perfume the high trails.

4. You will discover the history of the Vilcabamba Mountain Range

This region was the last refuge of the Incas during the Spanish conquest. For this reason, every corner holds a very important historical weight for our culture.

Local beliefs about Apu Salkantay

For the people of the Andes, mountains are protective deities called Apus. You will feel that special energy when standing in front of its white summit.

The community members still perform coca leaf offerings to ask for permission when walking. We invite you to participate in these rituals with great humility and respect.

According to a 2022 UNSAAC study, these practices strengthen community identity. Therefore, they are a living part of the history that you will get to know.

Birds and fauna of the cloud forest

As we descend, the landscape transforms into a vibrant high jungle. It is home to hundreds of species that only live in this ecosystem.

If you are lucky, you will see the flight of the Andean cock-of-the-rock. This is the national bird of Peru and stands out for its intense red color.

1. You will look for footprints of the spectacled bear among the trees.
2. You will hear the song of various species of jungle hummingbirds.
3. You will observe brightly colored butterflies crossing the humid paths.

5. You will enjoy typical food and physical well-being

Nutrition during the trekking is fundamental to keeping your energy high. We make sure that you try fresh local ingredients in every meal.

Authentic flavors on the Salkantay route

Your breakfasts and lunches will include products like quinoa and kiwicha. These Andean grains are world-famous for their high nutritional value.

You will also try dishes made with various varieties of native potatoes from Cusco. Thanks to this, you will discover the gastronomic richness that Andean rural life offers.

You will notice that the flavor of the vegetables is much more intense here. This is because they are grown without chemical fertilizers in the high lands.

Acclimatization and effects of altitude

Walking at more than 4,000 meters above sea level is a challenge for your body. However, the physical effort improves your circulation and lung capacity.

We recommend drinking plenty of water and getting enough rest each night. This way, your body will better adapt to the limited oxygen of the high mountains.

• You will feel how your endurance improves as the days go by.
• You will enjoy a deep rest thanks to constant exercise.
• You will notice a sense of personal achievement when reaching the highest pass.

Prepare for your adventure with us

We hope that these 5 reasons to visit Salkantay motivate you to plan your trip. This experience will allow you to see an authentic and human side of our region.

At Trails to Machu Picchu, we organize every detail so that you only worry about enjoying yourself. We accompany you from Mollepata to the foothills of the Inca citadel with safety, contact us.