What is the Salkantay Trek?
The Salkantay Trek is the #1 alternative to the Inca Trail and is considered by National Geographic as one of the 25 best treks in the world. This 5-day, 4-night hike takes you from the snowy Salkantay Pass at 4,630m / 15,190ft down to the cloud forest and finally to Machu Picchu.
Unlike the Inca Trail, you don’t need to book 6 months in advance. No permits, fewer crowds, more wild landscapes.
Quick Facts:
- Distance: 74 km / 46 miles
- Duration: 4 Days / 5 Days (We recommend 5 Days)
- Highest Point: Salkantay Pass – 4,630m
- Difficulty: Moderate to Challenging
- Start: Mollepata / Soraypampa (3.5 hours from Cusco)
Salkantay Trek vs Inca Trail: Which One Should You Choose?
This is the question everyone asks. We already covered the [Inca Trail from Cusco: The Ultimate Guide to the Classic Machu Picchu Hike] – here’s the difference:
| Feature | Salkantay Trek | Inca Trail |
|---|---|---|
| Scenery | Snow mountains, lakes, jungle | Inca ruins & cloud forest |
| Permits | No permit needed | Permit required, sells out fast |
| Difficulty | Harder (higher pass) | Moderate |
| Crowds | Fewer people | Very crowded |
Choose Salkantay if: You love nature, want to avoid crowds, didn’t get an Inca Trail permit, and want a bigger challenge.
The Ultimate Salkantay Trek 5-Day Itinerary
Day 1: Cusco – Mollepata – Soraypampa – Humantay Lake
You leave Cusco at 4:30 AM. Hike to the stunning Humantay Lake at 4,200m. It’s a tough first day for acclimatization. This is why our guide on [How to Avoid Altitude Sickness in Cusco: A Hiker’s Prevention Guide] is mandatory reading before this trek.
Sleep at Soraypampa camp.
Day 2: Soraypampa – Salkantay Pass – Chaullay (The Hardest Day)
The big day. 22km. You start climbing at 5 AM to reach Salkantay Pass (4,630m). The views of Mount Salkantay are unreal. Then a long 2,000m descent to the edge of the jungle. Your knees will feel it.
Sleep at Chaullay camp in the cloud forest.
Day 3: Chaullay – La Playa – Santa Teresa
Easy and warm day. You walk through coffee and avocado plantations, waterfalls, and you can have your first hot shower. In the afternoon, most tours include the Cocalmayo Hot Springs in Santa Teresa.
Sleep in Santa Teresa (hostel, not camp).
Day 4: Santa Teresa – Hydroelectric – Aguas Calientes
Hike or take a zipline in the morning, then walk along the train tracks for 3 hours to Aguas Calientes. This is the town below Machu Picchu, also known as Machu Picchu Pueblo.
Sleep in hotel in Aguas Calientes.
Day 5: Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu – Cusco
Wake up at 4 AM to hike up to Machu Picchu for sunrise. 2-3 hour guided tour in the citadel, then hike down and take the train back to Cusco. End of trek.
Want to add Rainbow Mountain after? Many travelers combine Salkantay with our [Rainbow Mountain Peru Tour: The Ultimate Day Trip Guide From Cusco].
How Difficult is the Salkantay Trek?
It’s moderate to challenging. You don’t need to be an athlete, but you need to be fit. Day 2 is the real test with the high pass and long descent.
3 Tips to make it easier:
- Spend 2 days in Cusco before the trek to acclimatize.
- Hire a horse/emergency horse for your backpack. It costs $15-20 per day and saves your energy.
- Train with stairs and hikes 1 month before.
What to Pack for Salkantay Trek
- Essentials: Original Passport, waterproof trekking boots (broken in), 40L backpack
- Clothes: Thermal layers, waterproof jacket, quick-dry pants, wool socks, gloves and beanie for the pass
- Other: Headlamp, 2L water bottle, sun protection, altitude pills, cash for Aguas Calientes
Don’t bring a big suitcase. Leave it at your hotel in Cusco or our office.
Cost & Best Time to Go
Cost: $250 – $600 USD for 5 days. Cheaper tours have bigger groups and basic food. Don’t go for the cheapest – food and guide quality matters at 4,600m.
Best Time: Dry season is April to October. Best months are May, June, September. If you go in rainy season (Dec-March), the trail is muddy and Humantay Lake is cloudy. Check our post [Hiking Peru Cusco: 3 Best Treks to Machu Picchu & Beyond] for seasonal comparison.
FAQ
Is the Salkantay Trek safe?
Yes, 100% safe with a licensed agency. The trail is well marked and you go with a guide and chef.
Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, 2-3 weeks in advance in high season. Not 6 months like Inca Trail, but don’t show up last minute.
Can I do Salkantay in 4 days?
Yes, but you skip Santa Teresa and go straight to Aguas Calientes on Day 3. It’s very rushed. We recommend 5 days.