{"id":7051,"date":"2017-06-16T17:28:44","date_gmt":"2017-06-16T16:28:44","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.tourradar.com\/days-to-come\/?p=7051"},"modified":"2019-07-08T13:11:47","modified_gmt":"2019-07-08T12:11:47","slug":"guide-to-the-salkantay-trek","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.tourradar.com\/days-to-come\/guide-to-the-salkantay-trek\/","title":{"rendered":"The Ultimate Guide to the Salkantay Trek (What to Bring, How to Do It, What to Expect)"},"content":{"rendered":"

As one of the new seven wonders of the world with its alluring scenery and majestic ruins, Machu Picchu<\/strong> has become an extremely popular destination in South America. The landmark\u2019s overwhelming demand has made the road less travelled (the Salkantay Trek) ever more enticing compared to the busiest route: the Inca Trail.<\/p>\n

(discover here the training for Machu Picchu<\/a>)<\/em><\/p>\n

The Salkantay Trek will take you on a journey through the flora and fauna of the Andean Jungle to the sacred Salkantay Mountain before reaching the ancient Inca citadel of Machu Picchu.<\/span><\/p>\n

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Travel to: <\/em>Machu Picchu <\/a><\/strong><\/p>\r\n

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Since it can be challenging to discover information on this lesser known route, we have gathered everything you need to know about taking the Salkantay Trek. In particular you will find the perks of choosing Salkantay over the Inca trail, tips for booking your trip and detailed trail information. <\/span><\/p>\n

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Photo credit: Walter Diaz<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Perks of Opting for Salkantay over the Inca Trail:<\/h2>\n

What can you expect from Salkantay Tour?<\/h3>\n

While the Inca Trail may be the most well-known route to Machu Picchu, this does not necessarily mean it is the best trail. The Salkantay Trek has many benefits over Inca that are unrealized by most adventurers. <\/span><\/p>\n

1. Booking Flexibility<\/b><\/h3>\n

In order to get a permit for the Inca trail, it is advised to book 6 months in advance, which certainly puts a hitch in the plans of spontaneous travelers. This is because the Inca trail only authorizes 500 hikers to enter the trail each day. Salkantay has no permit limitations, which allows for decreased booking lead time and more flexibility.<\/span><\/p>\n

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See Also: <\/em>What You Need to Take and to Know About Trekking to Machu Picchu<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\r\n

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2. Less Crowds<\/b><\/h3>\n

Despite permit limits, the renowned Inca trail can get quite crowded. This can paint the experience with frustrating shades of touristy. The Salkantay trek allows you to go off the beaten path for a more secluded adventure, which means increased space to embrace your inner Inca. <\/span><\/p>\n

3. Mountain and Jungle Scenery<\/b><\/h3>\n

While the Inca trail offers additional ancient ruins, the Salkantay Trek will allow you to discover some of the most remarkable features of Mother Nature\u2019s beauty. Over the course of the Salkantay Trek, you\u2019ll dip your feet in the beautiful glacial lake of Humantay, traverse past the Salkantay Mountain (the highest peak in the Willkapampa range), descend into the lush, subtropical cloud forest, and harvest and roast your own coffee from the region\u2019s local coffee farm. These nature-rich experiences boast a wide variety of scenery, with the best Inca ruins left as the final reward at the end.<\/span><\/p>\n

Do you want to travel through Peru as part of a small group tour? Check our options here<\/a>.<\/em><\/p>\n

4. Bonus Excursions – Ziplining or Hot Springs<\/b><\/h3>\n

Whether you are an adventure junkie or rejuvenation fiend the Salkantay Trek has the excursion for you. On the fourth day of your journey, you can opt to go ziplining at Cola de Mono (the highest zipline in South America) or to be transported to an oasis where you can get a well-deserved soak in the hot springs of Colcamayu. These excursions are unique to the Salkantay Trek.<\/span><\/p>\n

5. Cost Effectiveness<\/b><\/h3>\n

Because the Inca trail is in such high demand, it is easier to find a budget-friendly tour via the Salkantay route. Additionally, the money that you do spend will likely go a longer way on the Salkantay Trek.<\/span><\/p>\n

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Donkeys in the Salkantay Trail<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Guide to the Salkantay Trek: How to Book the Trek<\/h2>\n

When to Go<\/b><\/h3>\n

The Salkantay Trek is open all year round, but note how much rain (and mud) you are willing to handle before booking. The Peruvian Andes has two seasons: wet season and dry season. <\/span><\/p>\n