If you’re currently sitting in a hostel somewhere in South America, looking at the 800 USD price tag and six-month waiting list for the Inca Trail with a sense of dread, take a breath. We’ve been there. In fact, we booked our trek while sitting in our nightclub / hostel in Sucre, Bolivia, a mere two weeks before we wanted to hike.
Salkantay Trek feels like discovering a hikers travel secret to Machu Picchu. It is much more affordable, less crowded, and takes you through the most dramatic Andean scenery imaginable. It’s the perfect alternative for spontaneous travellers who want a rugged, authentic experience without the hassle of the traditional Inca Trail permits.
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Salkantay Trek vs. Inca Trail: Which Machu Picchu Hike is Better?
The Salkantay Trek is the premier alternative to the Inca Trail, offering a diverse landscape that shifts from glacial peaks to lush cloud forests. It is significantly more affordable, easier to book last-minute, and provides a more rugged, less commercialised atmosphere while still visiting the legendary ruins of Machu Picchu.
While the classic Inca Trail is more famous, the Salkantay was also an Inca-built route. It historically served as a spiritual pilgrimage connecting the city of Cusco to the high peaks (Apus). The primary difference between the two is the experience: the Inca Trail is highly regulated with stone steps and porter-heavy camps, whereas Salkantay is more of a rugged mountain expedition.
Comparison Table: Salkantay vs. Classic Inca Trail
| Feature | Salkantay Trek (5-Day) | Classic Inca Trail (4-Day) |
| Average Cost | 400 USD | 800 USD |
| Booking Window | 3-6 weeks in advance | 6 months in advance |
| Highest Point | 4,600m (Salkantay Pass) | 4,215m (Dead Woman’s Pass) |
| Difficulty | Challenging (Higher peaks) | Moderate (Endless stairs) |
| Landscape | Glaciers to High Jungle | Cloud forest & Ruins |
| Permit Required? | No (But Machu Picchu entry is needed) | Yes (Strict daily caps of 500 per day incl. porters) |
We messaged our operators on WhatsApp and finalised everything on our phones. It was seamless, which is a relief when you’re already stressed about the physical toll of the hike.
Salkantay Trek Difficulty: Managing Altitude and Illness
Surviving the Salkantay Trek requires respecting the altitude and listening to your body’s signals. If coming from a lower altitude, proper acclimatisation in Cusco (3,400m) for at least 2–3 days is essential, as is staying hydrated. If illness strikes, don’t hesitate to use local support services like mules to ensure you complete the trail safely and enjoyably.
Let’s get real about it, this hike is stunning, but it can be rough. Corry started the trek with some serious food poisoning from a couple days prior which was less than ideal. Even for myself, on the first day’s climb up to Humantay Lake (4,200m), I was gasping for air and spent most of that climb sitting every ten metres just to catch my breath.
If you’re struggling, the “mule tax” is worth every cent (or Peruvian Sol, more accurately). On Day 2, we were facing some serious altitude sickness and it was going to be a long, steep trek up to the 4,600m Salkantay Pass. Along with a few others, we umm’ed and ahh’ed over breakfast about whether to do it or risk going too slow and running out of daylight hours for the distance we needed to cover that day. Eventually, we paid 80 PEN (23 USD) for a mule and it saved our trek. Don’t let hiker pride ruin your chances. Also, keep a stash of 200 PEN (57 USD) in small notes for trail snacks; the mountain “tiendas” rarely have change for big bills.
Packing List for the Inca Trail and Salkantay Trek
Packing light for a 5-day trek is achievable by utilising the 7kg duffel bag service provided by most tour operators for heavy gear. Focus on high-quality layers, including a fleece, outer and a reliable rain shell. Bringing a 2L hydration system ensures you remain hydrated between the infrequent water stops.
Since we also had our 7kg duffel bags carried by the porters, I managed the daytimes with just a 16L daypack. Think of it as packing for a long weekend in the bush, but with much higher stakes and thinner air. The key is a strict layering system that handles both the freezing mountain mornings and the humid jungle afternoons.
Essential Gear Specifications
| Item | Recommendation |
| Insulation | Lightweight, packable puffer jacket and/or fleece |
| Base Layer | Merino wool singlet or T-shirt |
| Outer Shell | Lightweight rain shell |
| Water Capacity | 1.5-2L minimum (Bladder or bottles) |
| Sun Protection | SPF 50+ (The Andean sun is unforgiving) |
| Footwear | Broken-in trekking boots (do not buy these in Cusco!) |
Machu Picchu Circuits 2026: Navigating the New Entry Rules
Navigating Machu Picchu effectively requires understanding the strict one-way circuit system. Tickets must be booked for specific routes, which determine which parts of Machu Picchu you will get to see. To get the classic postcard view, you’ll need to ensure you have a ticket for one of the Circuit 2 or Circuit 1 routes.
At the time of our visit to Machu Picchu, we also did the additional Huayna Picchu hike. It gives you a spectacular perspective of the ruins from above, something you completely miss when you’re standing inside the stone walls.
If you want to see more details on the specific Machu Picchu circuits, you can check them on the Peruvian Ministry of Culture website here.
Is the 5-Day Salkantay Trek Worth It?
The 5-day Salkantay Trek is absolutely worth it for travellers seeking a transition from high-altitude glaciers to tropical coffee plantations. The extended itinerary allows for a manageable physical pace and includes higher-quality campsite meals, making the challenging 7-hour hiking days feel rewarding rather than purely exhausting.
While there are shorter 3 or 4-day versions, the 5-day pace is the sweet spot. You aren’t slumming it either; our meals were phenomenal. Think hot, multi-course dinners and some of the best guac you’ve had in your life*, which is exactly what you need after a day of Andean inclines. If you’re looking for an authentic, challenging, and budget-friendly way to see a wonder of the world, stop stressing and just book the Salkantay Trek. You won’t regret it.
*Best guac award was agreed via consensus by our entire trekking group. No bias at all.
Where to stay in Cusco
Cusco offers a diverse range of accommodation, from upscale boutique hotels in historic colonial buildings to vibrant, budget-friendly hostels. For those looking for a social yet comfortable atmosphere, Flying Dog Hostel is an excellent choice. We stayed here in a private room for a total of about 10 nights before and after our hike to Machu Picchu.
The hostel is perfectly situated in the historic center, just a 5-minute walk from the Plaza de Armas and right on the edge of the charming San Blas artisan quarter. It features exceptionally clean rooms and a well-equipped communal kitchen, which is a lifesaver for travellers looking to prepare their own meals. At approximately 95 PEN ($25 USD) per night for a private room plus ensuite, it hit a fantastic balance between affordability and quality.
Throughout our time travelling South America, we found Booking.com to be one of the best apps and discounts. We used it as our primary platform for researching and booking accommodations there.
Beyond specific hostels, here is a general breakdown of the best neighborhoods:
- Plaza de Armas (Historic Center): Ideal for those who want to be in the heart of the action, steps away from major landmarks, restaurants, and tour operators.
- San Blas: Known for its bohemian vibe and cobblestone streets, this area offers quieter guesthouses and stunning views, though it involves a bit of an uphill walk.
- Lucrepata: This neighborhood provides a more local, residential feel. It is within walking distance of the center but tucked away from the heaviest tourist crowds.
Whether you prefer the convenience of the main square or the artistic charm of San Blas, Cusco has an option for every travel style and budget.
Visit Machu Picchu Without the Trek
If you’re short on time, you can skip the multi-day trek and head straight to Aguas Calientes, the gateway town located at the base of the ruins. Since there are no roads to the town, you’ll need to arrive by train (via PeruRail or Inca Rail).
- The Route: Most travelers take a 2-hour bus or private car from Cusco to Ollantaytambo, followed by a scenic 1.5-hour train ride to Aguas Calientes.
- The Final Ascent: Once in town, you can either hike up (like us) or catch one of the frequent Consettur shuttle buses. These depart every few minutes and take about 30 minutes to reach the Machu Picchu entrance gate.
Note: Both train tickets and Machu Picchu entry permits sell out well in advance, so be sure to book your transport and site access simultaneously.
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