The Salkantay trek is the most popular alternative to the Inca Trail. It doesn’t require a limited-entry permit, and it crosses a remarkable range of landscapes: from the snowcapped Salkantay, over 6,000 m high, down to the high jungle on the edge of the cloud forest, ending in Aguas Calientes and Machu Picchu.
Difficulty
It’s a demanding route. On day two you cross the Salkantay Pass, at about 4,630 m, after a long climb. The remaining days have long descents. Good physical fitness and prior acclimatization are recommended.
Best time to go
From April to October, with dry days and very cold nights in the high areas. In the rainy season the trail can get muddy.
