Tripadvisor
🌄 Salkantay Trek 5 days: the best alternative to the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu
Do you dream of reaching Machu Picchu surrounded by snow-capped mountains, turquoise lagoons, and tropical rainforest? ✨ The Salkantay Trek is considered one of the most spectacular treks in the world and has become the best alternative to the famous Inca Trail 4dyas-3nights.
With breathtaking landscapes, diverse climates, and fewer entry restrictions, this trek is perfect for adventure lovers. In this blog, we’ll tell you what it is, what the route is like, and why you should choose it.
🏔️ What is the Salkantay Trek?
The Salkantay Trek is a multi-day trekking route that connects Cusco with Machu Picchu, passing through the majestic snow-capped Salkantay mountain (6,271 meters above sea level).
Unlike the Inca Trail, you don’t need limited permits or to book months in advance.
It is a trek of approximately 72 km in 5 days and 4 nights, where you will cross unique landscapes: mountains, lagoons, high jungle, and Andean villages.
📅 Summary itinerary of the Salkantay Trek 5D/4N, With Guding Cusco Expeditions
✅ Day 1: Cusco – Soraypampa – Humantay Lake
The adventure begins with a hike to the magical Humantay Lake. Camp in Soraypampa.
✅ Day 2: Soraypampa – Salkantay Pass – Chaullay
The most challenging day: climb to the Salkantay Pass (4,650 meters above sea level) with breathtaking views of the snow-capped mountain. Then descend to the high jungle.
✅ Day 3: Chaullay – La Playa – Santa Teresa
Landscapes of jungle canopy, coffee and fruit plantations. Option to visit hot springs in Santa Teresa.
✅ Day 4: Santa Teresa – Hydroelectric Plant – Aguas Calientes
Hike through the valley to the town of Aguas Calientes, at the foot of Machu Picchu.
✅ Day 5: Machu Picchu – Cusco
Guided tour of the Inca citadel, one of the wonders of the modern world.—
✨ Why choose the Salkantay Trek?
- 🌄 Unique landscapes: from glaciers to tropical jungle.
- 🚶 Fewer restrictions: you don’t need limited permits like on the Inca Trail.
- 💰 More economical: ideal if you are looking for adventure with good value for money.
- 🌱 Authenticity: less crowded and with experiences closer to the local culture.
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🎒 Tips for the Salkantay Trek, with Guiding Cusco Expeditions
- Best time: April to October (dry season).
- Difficulty level: moderate-high (good physical condition recommended).
What to bring:
What will you carry in the duffel bag?
During the Salkantay Trek 5days Tour, porters will carry up to 5 kg of your personal belongings. With your sleeping bag and air mattress 7 kg; this equipment you can bring your own or rent from Guiding Cusco Expeditions
- 4-5 t-shirts (long sleeve, preferably absorbent t-shirts)
- 3 comfortable walking pants
- 4 sets of underwear
- 4 sets of hiking socks
- 1 warm jacket – very cold at night
- Comfortable camping shoes (sandals or sneakers)
- Camping towels (quick drying). Small hand towels are provided.
- Soap (in a sealed container)
- Battery charger (enough for the 6 days)
- Plastic bags: to organize clean and dirty things.
- Sleeping bag (-10C °), you can bring your own or rent it in GUIDING CUSCO EXPEDITONS
- Ear plugs for the night
- Toiletries, Sunscreen
- Insect repellent
- Hand sanitizer, wet wipes, toilet paper
- Toothbrush and toothpaste
- Personal medication
- First aid kit: Band-Aid’s, moleskin, etc.
