Why Trek Salkantay Instead of Other Routes

Why hike the Salkantay is an important question if you are planning a trip to Cusco and are looking to reach Machu Picchu through a trekking experience. Among the available options, this route combines physical challenge, varied landscapes, and flexibility. At Trails to Machu Picchu, we have guided hundreds of travelers along these trails. During our expeditions, we notice that this route offers a freedom that other trails do not allow. Unlike the classic stone path, the environment changes drastically every day. Thus, you will go from imposing glaciers to the dense high jungle in just a few hours.

Choosing the right trek depends a lot on what you hope to get out of the mountain. While the Inca Trail is the most famous, its capacity restrictions and rigid itinerary are often obstacles for many travelers. For this reason, we consider this journey an excellent alternative route to the Inca Trail, because it does not depend on limited permits that you must request months in advance. Below, we will explain why this mountain range has become a favorite option for those who prefer direct contact with the Andean nature.

1. Availability and flexibility in planning

One of the main advantages of this route is that you do not need to book six months in advance. For the traditional Inca Trail, the Ministry of Culture grants a limited number of daily permits that sell out quickly. In contrast, we have much more flexibility to organize the dates of your journey through Salkantay. This allows you to plan your trip with less stress and adjust the itinerary according to your acclimatization pace in Cusco.

Furthermore, this flexibility also extends to camping options. At Trails to Machu Picchu, we organize groups that enjoy well-established campsites. This way, you can recover better after intense days. You also do not depend on a strict state calendar, so you can choose your departure date with greater freedom. This is crucial if you have a tight travel schedule.

2. The geographical contrast of the Vilcabamba Mountain Range

The route crosses the heart of the Vilcabamba Mountain Range, a mountain chain that houses some of the highest peaks in the region. However, what distinguishes this hike is the radical change of scenery. Few routes allow you to wake up surrounded by snow and end the day in a semi-tropical environment. There you will find orchids and coffee plantations.

From glacial cold to the heat of the jungle

During the first few days, you will find an environment dominated by stone and ice. The weather in the Vilcabamba Mountain Range is dry and cold in the high parts, especially near the Humantay lagoon. However, as we descend toward the Santa Teresa river valley, the temperature rises and the landscape becomes green and dense. You will also notice how the air becomes heavier and more humid. This can be a relief for your lungs after overcoming the higher altitude zones.

The flora and fauna of the area

You will be surprised by the biodiversity that you will encounter during the tour. In the high zones, it is possible that you will observe the flight of the Andean condor or find viscachas among the rocks. As you descend toward the cloud forest, the flora and fauna of the area change notably. You will see a great variety of birds, such as the Andean cock-of-the-rock in more remote sectors. In addition, you will walk among fruit trees, coffee plantations, and granadilla fields. On our tours, we enjoy sharing these botanical details with you, because the trail is, in essence, a living lesson in ecology.

3. The physical challenge of the Salkantay pass at 4600 meters

If you are looking to push yourself, this route is a good option. We believe that the difficulty of the Salkantay snow-capped mountain does not lie in technique, but in physical resistance and altitude. You do not need to be a professional climber, but you do need to be in good physical condition. This way, you will be able to face the most important ascent of the route.

The high point is the Salkantay pass, at 4600 meters above sea level. Getting there requires a constant effort, but the visual reward makes up for every step. From this point, you will enjoy a privileged view of the south face of the Apu Salkantay, a mountain considered sacred since ancient times. Being at that altitude allows you to connect with the immensity of the Andes in a different way than conventional tours.

Average daily walking time

To plan your energy well, you should know that the average daily walking time ranges between six and eight hours. The second day is the longest and most demanding, because it includes the ascent to the pass and a long descent to the Chaullay campsite. For this reason, we recommend that you bring trekking poles to protect your knees. They will be especially useful during long descents on rocky terrain.

4. Comfort and variety in the campsites

Unlike the Inca Trail, where campsites are regulated by the state and are quite basic, the Salkantay route allows the use of private land with more varied and comfortable lodging options. In many of our expeditions, you can choose between different types of campsites and lodging on the route.

Currently, you will find everything from traditional high-mountain tents to domes with transparent roofs. The latter allow you to watch the stars during the night. Some places also offer hot showers and better sanitary facilities than those on the classic trail. Thanks to this infrastructure, you can rest with greater comfort. This is essential to recover energy after days of six to eight hours of walking.

5. A unique perspective of Machu Picchu

Although almost all routes end at the citadel, the Salkantay trek to Machu Picchu offers a perspective that few tourists know. Instead of entering directly from the high part, as happens with the Inca Trail, we take you through Llactapata.

The best viewpoints of the route

From the Llactapata archaeological site, you will enjoy one of the best viewpoints of the route. From there, you will observe the Machu Picchu and Huayna Picchu mountains in the distance. Both are separated by the deep canyon of the Vilcanota river. This side view allows you to appreciate the strategic location of the citadel between the mountains. It is also highly appreciated by our photographers and hikers looking for a different image than the classic postcard. An experience that answers the question of why hike the Salkantay instead of other routes.

Arrival in Aguas Calientes

After descending from Llactapata, you will walk along the railway line toward the town of Aguas Calientes. This stretch is more relaxed and takes place under the shade of the trees, while you listen to the roar of the river. Thus, you will have the perfect moment to assimilate everything you experienced before visiting the archaeological complex the following day.

6. Infrastructure and logistics on the route

Despite being a mountain route, the availability of campsites on the route has improved considerably in recent years. This allows the average cost of the Salkantay tour to be more affordable compared to other routes that require more porters and expensive state permits. Furthermore, since we do not have the same restrictions as the Inca Trail, we can offer you more personalized and comfortable services.

At Trails to Machu Picchu, we take care of providing you with tents suitable for the Andean cold and a balanced diet. Food is essential to maintain your energy during routes that exceed 4000 meters. In addition, we have mules to transport heavy equipment. This way, you can hike only with a small backpack, which makes the journey easier and allows you to enjoy the landscape more.

7. Technical preparation and equipment necessary for the trekking

To enjoy the advantages of hiking the Salkantay without setbacks, preparation is fundamental. Do not leave anything to chance, because the Andean weather can be unforgiving if you do not have the right equipment. At Trails to Machu Picchu, we always send a detailed list to our travelers. However, here we summarize the essential elements.

Clothing and footwear

The layering system will be your best ally during the journey. Although the sun can be strong during the day, the temperature drops rapidly at nightfall or when the wind blows at the pass. For this reason, we suggest including the following:

• High-top trekking shoes, worn previously to avoid blisters.
• Thermal jackets and an outer waterproof or windbreaker layer.
• Quick-dry clothing, avoiding cotton because it retains moisture.
• Gloves, a wool hat, and thermal socks for the nights in Soraypampa.

Equipment necessary for the trekking

In addition to clothing, there are items that will make your day-to-day life on the mountain easier. The equipment necessary for the trekking includes a headlamp with charged batteries, because the campsites have limited lighting. You should also carry sunscreen and insect repellent, especially during the last days of hiking in the jungle. Likewise, we recommend carrying water purification tablets or a bottle with an integrated filter. However, we always provide boiled and safe water during meals.

Final tips for your adventure

Before starting this experience with Trails to Machu Picchu, dedicate at least two days to acclimatize in the city of Cusco. Altitude sickness is real and can affect your performance during the first day if you do not rest properly. Therefore, drinking coca tea and staying hydrated are simple practices that can make the difference between a pleasant and a difficult hike.

Remember that hiking Salkantay is much more than reaching one of the wonders of the world. It also means immersing yourself in the geography of the Peruvian Andes. If you value the variety of climates, trails without excessive crowds, and the satisfaction of overcoming a high-altitude pass, this route may be ideal for your next visit to Machu Picchu. In short, Why hike the Salkantay is answered with the combination of nature, adventure, and freedom that you can experience during this journey. Do not wait any longer, book with us.