The ideal time to hike the Salkantay Trek is during the dry season, which runs from April to October. You’ll enjoy more stable weather, clear skies, and less risk of rain. June to August are the most popular months, so the trail tends to be busier. If you prefer to avoid the crowds, consider going in April, May, or October. While the rainy season (November to March) brings more rain and muddy trails, it also offers lush, vibrant landscapes and fewer adventurers, making for a more peaceful experience.

The Salkantay Trek is considered moderately challenging, rating around a 4 out of 5 in difficulty. Every day you’ll be hiking for about 6 to 8 hours, so while you don’t need to be a professional athlete, having good stamina is essential. The trek covers long distances, and the high altitude adds to the challenge, so being in good physical shape will definitely help. But don’t worry—if you’re not an experienced trekker, with a bit of determination, preparation, and the right gear, you can absolutely do it!

Adjusting to altitude can be a bit of a challenge, but don’t worry—there are some simple ways to prepare. I’d suggest spending a few days in Cusco or theSacred Valley before the trek. It really helps your body get used to the elevation.
Make sure you’re drinking plenty of water; staying hydrated is super important! Oh, and it might be wise to skip the alchohol for a few days while you’re adjusting—trust me, your body will thank you. If altitude sickness is a concern, some people find that medication like acetazolamide (Diamox) or Sorojchi Pills can help, but definitely have a chat with your doctor about it first.
Most importantly, listen to your body! If you start feeling a bit dizzy or out of breath, take a breather and inform your tour guide.

Packing the right gear is key to enjoying your adventure! Start with a good pair of hiking boots, they'll be your best friends on the trail. Make sure to bring some warm layers. And don’t forget rain poncho, the weather can be unpredictable.
The sun can be intense in the mountains, so pack sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat. A refillable water bottle is a must to stay hydrated, and don’t forget some snacks to keep your energy up along the way. A small daypack will help you carry your essentials comfortably.
If you have trekking poles, bring those along—they can really help with the ups and downs of the trail. Finally, make sure to include any personal items you might need, like medications or hygiene products. With the right gear, you’ll be ready to tackle this amazing trek!

The duration of the Salkantay Trek varies depending the route you choose. The classic Salkantay Trek  lasts for 4 days/3 nights and covers approximately 48 km (29.8 miles), while the 5-day  alternative spans about 70 km (43.5 miles). If you prefer a more extensive experience, you can opt for the 8-day trek Salkantay + Inca Trail and has a total length of 60 km (37.3 miles). On average, you'll be walking for about 6 to 8 hours each day. The ultimate destination is, of course, the breathtaking Machu Picchu, which you’ll reach on the final day of your journey. While it’s a long trek, every step is worth it when you will see the seven wonder of the world, Machu Picchu.

Weather can change a lot on the Salkantay Trek. During the dry season (April to October), daytime temperatures are usually between 15°C and 25°C (59°F to 77°F), but it can get very cold at night, especially near the Salkantay Pass, where temperatures can drop below freezing. In the wet season (November to March), expect rain, and the trail can get slippery. No matter when you go, it’s a good idea to be prepared for all kinds of weather, so pack accordingly.

There aren’t strict age limits, but the trek is best suited for people between the ages of 12 and 65 who are in good health. The trek is physically demanding, especially at higher altitudes, so if you’re outside this age range, it’s a good idea to talk to your doctor and make sure you’re prepared for the challenge. Families with younger kids or older adults should consider how physically demanding the trek might be.

If you book the 4-day Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu, you'll spend the first two nights in cozy tents and the third night in a 3-star hotel in Aguas Calientes. If you choose the Ultimate Salkantay Trek, you'll sleep in tents for the first three nights at Salkantaypampa, Collpapampa, and Llactapata, with the fourth night in a 3-star hotel. For the 5-day luxury Salkantay Trek, you’ll also get more comfortable tents, real beds, and even hot showers in some camps. Rustic lodges are also available along the way, especially near the end of the trek, so you’ll have a range of options depending on your budget and the kind of experience you’re looking for.

Yes, although you might ask, "Why?" Unlike the Inca Trail, the Salkantay Trek doesn’t have a strict daily permit limit. However, it’s still wise to book in advance, especially if you plan to go during the busy season (June to August). Reserving ahead gives you more time to prepare, and some companies even offer discounts for early bookings.

A typical Salkantay Trek tour package with TreXperience includes: Transportation with hotel pickup and drop-off, a professional tour guide who will accompany you throughout the trek. Porters or muleteers and their mules will carry all the camping gear, so you can focus on the experience. The package includes entry tickets for Machu Picchu, and includes a briefing to prepare you. During your hike, you will camp for 2 nights in comfortable tents. You will also spend 1 night in a 3-star hotel in Aguas Calientes. All meals are provided, except for the final lunch, along with daily snacks and water. To make your journey easier, you'll be given a duffel bag for up to 8 kg (17 lbs) of personal belongings carried by the mules. Safety is a priority, with first aid kits, satellite phones, and oxygen available.

No, you don´t need a permit for the Salkantay Trek as the Inca Trail. However, you will need a ticket to enter to Machu Picchu, which is usually included in the tour package (that is why you need to book in advance).

During your trek, you'll enjoy buffet-style meals! Our offerings are generally healthy, hearty, and prepared with fresh local ingredients to keep you energized. Each day, you can look forward to breakfast, lunch, and dinner, featuring a variety of dishes such as hearty soups, rice, vegetables, and proteins like chicken or fish. Don’t worry if you’re vegetarian, vegan, or gluten-free—we have plenty of options for you, too!
One of the highlights is our traditional Andean dish called Pachamanca, where food is cooked underground with hot stones. It’s a true culinary delight that will be a rewarding treat after a long day of hiking! Get ready for a memorable dining experience on your adventure!

First, I want to tell you that the starting point is Challacancha. Getting there is easy! From Cusco, you have a few options. If you decide to trek on your own, head to the Arcopata bus terminal in Cusco, where you can catch a bus to Mollepata. This trip takes around 2 to 3 hours. Once you arrive to Mollepata, you need to get a taxi or a "colectivo" to Challacancha, which is about a 30-minute drive.
On the other hand, if you book your trek with us, we’ll pick you up directly from your hotel, making your journey more comfortable. Many trekking companies offer packages that include this transportation, so you can focus on enjoying your adventure without the hassle of logistics.

During the Salkantay Trek the highest point is the Salkantay Pass, which sits at an altitude of 4,630 meters (15,190 feet) above sea level. This part can definitely test your limits, but the breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains are absolutely worth the effort! Once you conquer the Salkantay pass, you’ll start descending to lower altitudes, soaking in all the beauty around you. It’s an experience you won’t forget!

For sure! Today is your lucky day because we offer the fantastic option to combine the Salkantay Trek with the Classic Inca Trail. This combination gives you the chance to experience the beauty and challenges of both treks, making your adventure even more rewarding. But remember that this 8-day trek will take a bit longer and can be more demanding, so don’t forget to pack all the essentials you’ll need for the journey!

First, it’s important to know that porters aren't necessary on this trek as they are on the Inca Trail. So, how is the bulk gear generally handled? Generally, it’s the muleteers who take care of transporting the gear with the help of their horses and mules. Second, yes, your tour will include experienced tour guides who know the ins and outs of the trail. They’re not just there to lead you; they’re also a wealth of knowledge about the local history, culture, and natural environment. Plus, they'll be ready to assist you all the time. If you have altitude sickness, tell your tour guide quickly, because he knows how to act. The muleteers will carry the bulk of your gear—think tents and food—so you’ll only need to bring a daypack with your essentials. This help makes the trek a lot more enjoyable and manageable!

This is one of the most frequently asked questions. On the Salkantay Trek, you’ll be hiking for about 6 to 8 hours a day on average. The second day is the toughest because you’ll be crossing the stunning Salkantay Pass, but don’t worry—other days are more relaxed as you descend to lower altitudes. Your guide will always set a pace that’s comfortable for everyone, with plenty of breaks for rest, snacks, and photo opportunities. So, to be more accurate, on the first day, you’ll be hiking for about 7 to 8 hours, the second day is the longest at 9 hours, the third day will be around 6 hours, and the last day, just a short 2-hour walk to visit the incredible Machu Picchu!

Dear traveler, as I mentioned before, the Salkantay Trek is the second most popular route in Peru, and with that, it’s getting more basic facilities along the way. While you can definitely do the trek on your own, it’s generally safer and more enjoyable to go with a group. Having a guide who knows the trail and can help with altitude sickness or any challenges is always a good idea. Like a plus, hiking with a group adds to the fun—you’ll share the experience, make new friends, and have support all along the way!

Everything! The Salkantay Trekis full of incredible highlights. One of the most beautiful sights is the Humantay Lake, a beautiful glacial lake with turquoise waters. The trek’s highest point, the Salkantay Pass, offers breathtaking views of snow-covered mountains. Lucmabamba introduces you to the charm of the jungle, where you can learn about local coffee production. And the ultimate reward? Of course, Machu Picchu, is one of the most famous and awe-inspiring sites in the world.

After visiting Machu Picchu, most trekkers head to Aguas Calientes, the town at the base of the mountain, where they catch a scenic train back to Cusco. The train ride takes about 3 to 4 hours and offers beautiful views of the surrounding mountains and rivers. Your tour package will usually include the train ticket, and once you arrive back in Cusco, you’ll be taken to your hotel to rest and reflect on your incredible journey.