The difficulty of the Salkantay Trail depends on your physical condition. You must be well-prepared and healthy before starting the walk. You must be in moderate form to complete this trip.
Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu is an excellent hike to the Inca citadel of Machu Picchu. Some people chose this trip when the famous Inca Trail in Peru ran out (which happens quite often). Salkantay Trek is the best alternative hike to Machu Picchu.
Here, you will see the elevations that we will cross during our walk:
The Salkantay trek crosses impressive landscapes, from the cloud forest to the high mountains. On the way, you will see the fantastic views of the second-highest mountain in Cusco; we are talking about the imposing Apu Salkantay, the “wild mountain” in Quechua Inca, located at 6,271 meters (20,574 feet). This trip to Machu Picchu crosses little-frequented areas and combines culture and tradition with Peru’s incredible flora and fauna. You will be in the real Andes and in the perfect conditions to understand life in the area.
Now we present the distances you will walk during the Salkantay Trek:
Trekking through the Andean mountains of Cusco and the plains to more than 4000 meters above sea level is necessary. Due to the high altitude and longitude, this hike is medium to medium-high in difficulty. People of all ages make this trip every day with Kondor Path Tours. Are you ready for this hike?
It is medium-high and medium in difficulty and lasts approximately five days at an average rate. This Salkantay Trek requires good physical condition. The route to Machu Picchu includes steep climbs and progressively rising plains.
The starting point is the Mollepata area at 2900 meters (9514 feet) or Soraypampa. The final issue, Machu Picchu, is at 2040 meters (6692 feet). Along the trail, there are areas uphill and others downhill. No risk factors exist, so this walk is safe because signs indicate it.
If you need help or rest, do not hesitate to stop and sit down for a moment. Enjoy the scenery and fresh air of the Andes in Peru. The cold is moderate, depending on the season, but we recommend bringing a coat.
1. Wear sunscreen and sunglasses: the dry season runs from March to November and is accompanied by the radiant sun, so it is necessary to protect it adequately.
2. Hydrate properly; bring a water bottle or rehydration drinks for your trip.
3. Do not make much effort; use a cane or take extra horse service if necessary.
4. Bring snacks with you; there are no places to buy food, so it’s good to have snacks to replenish energy and overcome any difficulty.
5. Take what is necessary: protect your back. Take what is required so that this walk will be trouble-free.
6. Do not give up: the route’s difficulty becomes easy if you take pictures, talk to others, and pay attention to details.