What is the Salkantay Trek?

The Salkantay Trek Peru, also known as Sallqantay or Salcantay trek, is an alternative route to the Inca Trail and the second most popular path in the Peruvian Andes. It's ideal for those seeking a closer experience of nature and Inca culture, culminating in a visit to one of the modern world's wonders, Machu Picchu.

Why choose the Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu?  

The Salkantay Trek Cusco offers a fascinating alternative to the busier Inca Trail. It features spectacular natural landscapes, challenging hiking paths, and a deep insight into local culture. This trek takes you through diverse landscapes, from snow-covered mountains to lush tropical forests, allowing you to behold the impressive Salkantay mountain, one of the highest in the Peruvian Andes.

The best Salkantay Trek Company: TreXperience

Discover the features that make TreXperience not just an option for undertaking the Salkantay Trek Cusco but a comprehensive experience that exceptionally combines adventure, culture, and comfort:  

Small groups and personalized experience

TreXperience is known for offering customized experiences tailored to the needs and expectations of each group (12 people). This includes adjusting the pace of the trek and providing detailed information tailored to the participants' specific interests.

Expert and passionate guides  

TreXperience is known for its team of local guides, who are not only experts in survival and terrain knowledge but also have a profound respect and understanding of Inca culture. They will provide you with unique insights into the history and traditions of the areas you traverse, enriching your trip with stories and legends known to few.

Gourmet cuisine on the trail

Food is a crucial aspect of expeditions like the Salkantay Trek in Cusco. TreXperience provides chefs who prepare nutritious and delicious meals with options catering to special diets, ensuring adventurers receive the necessary energy for their journey.

Commitment to sustainable tourism

During the Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu and other treks in Peru, TreXperience is committed to sustainable tourism practices, working in harmony with the environment and local communities. This approach not only helps preserve Peru's beautiful landscapes but also ensures that the benefits of tourism are fairly distributed among the local community.

Authentic Coffee Experience

During the Salkantay trek, you'll be guided by local farmers through the coffee production process, from harvesting the beans to enjoying the final cup. This activity not only lets you savor some of the world's finest coffee but also brings you closer to the traditions and lifestyles of the Andean communities.

Comfort and safety 

TreXperience spares no effort in comfort and safety. Although the Salkantay Trek Peru is an adventure on sometimes challenging terrains, the agency provides high-quality equipment and comfortable lodging options to ensure you feel safe and rested each night. This is vital for you to enjoy your experience without unnecessary worries fully.

High-quality equipment

During the Salkantay Trek, the agency provides high-quality camping equipment, including sturdy tents and comfortable sleeping bags, essential for dealing with the varied weather conditions that can occur during the trek.

Authentic cultural experiences 

Besides trekking, TreXperience offers you the chance to interact with local communities. This can range from participating in traditional ceremonies to learning about agriculture and other sustainable practices that local communities have used for centuries.

Photography and visual memories 

TreXperience guides are also equipped to help capture the best photographs, ensuring that travelers take home not only memories but also stunning images of their adventure.

Pachamanca experience 

A highlight of the Salkantay hike with TreXperience is the opportunity to participate in a traditional Pachamanca. This ancient Andean cooking technique involves burying food underground to cook with hot stones. This experience is not only a culinary delight but also a deep cultural immersion, allowing travelers to connect with Peru's culinary traditions.

Read More | Pachamanca.

Unique nighttime experience  

TreXperience offers a unique opportunity to stargaze at the campsites, taking advantage of the remote location and low light pollution to enjoy breathtaking night skies.

Trekking Salkantay to Machu Picchu with TreXperience in Cusco ensures that you will live this incredible adventure in the most enriching and responsible way possible.

Salkantay Trek altitude

The Salkantay Trail reaches its highest point at Salkantay Pass, 4,630 meters above sea level.

Frequently Asked Questions

How difficult is the Salkantay Trek?

The Salkantay Trek is considered moderate to challenging. Due to its rugged terrain and high altitude, it requires good physical condition.

How hard is the Salkantay Trek?

While not inherently dangerous, the Salkantay Trek does present challenges such as altitude sickness, variable weather conditions, and steep terrains.

How cold is the Salkantay Trek?

Temperatures during the trek can vary significantly. During the day, the weather might be mild, but at night and higher altitudes, temperatures can drop below 0 °C, especially near Salkantay Pass.

How to prepare for the Salkantay Trek?

Preparation should include physical training focused on cardiovascular endurance and muscle strength. A few days before the trek, it is crucial to acclimatize to the altitude in Cusco.

Salkantay Trek Packing List

Bringing these items will ensure you are well-prepared for the various conditions and challenges of the Salkantay Trek tours:

• Personal documentation and backups.
• Breathable, quick-drying layered clothing.
• Waterproof and windproof jacket.
• Trekking poles.
• Warm clothing (fleece, down jacket).
• Waterproof trekking boots.
• Trekking backpack with a waterproof cover.
• Sun hat and UV-protection sunglasses.
• Water bottle.
• Camera or smartphone with a good camera.
• Energy snacks (protein bars, nuts).

Between paths and dreams

Choosing to undertake the best Salkantay Trek company, TreXperience, means selecting a complete experience that integrates unique challenges, cultural immersion, and environmental commitment. With expert and passionate guides, TreXperience leads you through spectacular landscapes, ensuring comfort and safety.

Choosing TreXperience means deciding on an adventure that leaves a mark on your heart but not on the land you walk on. For all these reasons and more, the Salkantay Trek with TreXperience is not just a trek; it is a transformative experience that will stay with you long after you have returned home. In the end, you not only reach Machu Picchu, but you also take away a life-changing experience.