Do I need a permit for the Salkantay Trek?

No government trekking permit is required for the Salkantay Trek, unlike the regulated Inca Trail. You will need a separate Machu Picchu entry ticket (book at machupicchutickets.gob.pe) for the final day. The Salkantay route passes through the Salcantay community area near the pass, where local community fees of approximately S/10–S/20 per person apply at checkpoints.

Is the Salkantay Trek harder than the Inca Trail?

The high pass (Salkantay Pass, 4,638m) is significantly higher and colder than Dead Woman's Pass (4,215m) on the Inca Trail. The Day 2 crossing is the hardest single day of the two treks. Overall, the 5-day Salkantay route covers more distance and more elevation change. Most trekkers find it more demanding but equally rewarding.

Can I do the Salkantay Trek in February?

Yes — unlike the Inca Trail, the Salkantay Trek does not close in February. However, February conditions are the most challenging: heavy rain, potential snow at the pass, muddy trails, and higher risk of flash floods on lower sections. Highly experienced trekkers with appropriate gear manage it; most first-timers should plan for dry season instead.

Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu: The Best Alternative Route

The Salkantay Trek is the most popular alternative to the Inca Trail for reaching Machu Picchu overland. Named after Apu Salkantay (6,271m), one of the most sacred mountains in Andean cosmology, the 5-day route traverses dramatic terrain: glacial valleys, cloud forest, and the high-altitude puna grasslands — passing within a few kilometres of Salkantay’s permanent snowfields before descending into the coffee and fruit growing valleys above Aguas Calientes.

Route Summary

Start: Mollepata or Soraypampa, approximately 3 hours by road from Cusco. End: Aguas Calientes → Machu Picchu (Day 5). Duration: 5 days, 4 nights camping or lodge. Distance: Approximately 70–74km. Maximum altitude: Salkantay Pass, 4,638m. Difficulty: Challenging. No government permit required (Machu Picchu entry ticket required separately).

Day-by-Day Route

Day 1: Soraypampa (3,900m) — Salkantay Lake and acclimatisation (short day) Most operators drive from Cusco to Soraypampa (approximately 3 hours) and do a short afternoon acclimatisation hike to Humantay Lake (4,200m) — a stunning glacial lake below Humantay Peak. Camp at Soraypampa.

Day 2: Soraypampa to Chaullay via Salkantay Pass (22km, very hard) The crux day. A long ascent to Salkantay Pass (4,638m) in cold, often windy conditions, with Salkantay peak dominating the skyline. The descent to Chaullay (2,900m) covers 1,700m of altitude loss on rough trail — both knees and concentration are tested. Start by 04:30 to allow time.

Day 3: Chaullay to La Playa (20km, moderate) The trail transitions dramatically from glacial puna to cloud forest. Temperature rises; vegetation changes from ichu grass to bamboo, orchids, and cloud forest. A gentler day following the Santa Teresa river valley.

Day 4: La Playa to Aguas Calientes (15km or transport option) Options diverge: some operators walk the final section along the railway line and river; others take private transport to La Hidroeléctrica and walk 2 hours to Aguas Calientes along the railway track. Night in Aguas Calientes.

Day 5: Machu Picchu Early morning entry to Machu Picchu. Return by afternoon train to Cusco’s Poroy or Ollantaytambo stations.

Recommended Operators

Salkantay Trekking — The specialist Salkantay operator, offering both basic camping and lodge-to-lodge options (Sky Lodge domes). The Sky Lodge option includes heated geodesic dome accommodation with mountain views, private bathrooms, and buffet meals. Group camping tours from approximately USD 350 per person; Sky Lodge option approximately USD 600–USD 750 per person as of 2026.

Alpaca Expeditions — Also operates strong Salkantay tours alongside their Inca Trail programme. 5-day group camping from approximately USD 380 per person as of 2026. Known for good guide standards.

Mountain Lodges of Peru — The luxury end of the Salkantay market, with a series of private lodges along the route. Rates from approximately USD 2,200–USD 2,800 per person for a 5-night all-inclusive package as of 2026. For travellers who want the mountain experience without camping.

Browse Salkantay and Cusco trekking tours to compare operators and departure dates. If the Salkantay is sold out or you prefer the archaeological route, compare Inca Trail options on GetYourGuide to check permit availability.

What’s Included (Standard Tours)

Private transport from Cusco and back
English-speaking guide
Porters (gear carried; trekkers carry daypack only)
Camping equipment (tent, sleeping mat — sleeping bags extra or provided depending on operator)
All meals on trail
Community checkpoint fees
First aid kit

Not included: Machu Picchu entry ticket, train from Aguas Calientes, sleeping bag (check with operator), tips.

Salkantay vs Inca Trail

Factor	Salkantay	Inca Trail
Permit required	No	Yes
Maximum altitude	4,638m	4,215m
Distance	~70km	~43km
Duration	5 days	4 days
Scenery	Glacial + cloud forest	Cloud forest + Inca ruins
Crowds	Moderate	Heavy (peak season)
Cost	USD 350–USD 750	USD 550–USD 1,200
Inca ruins on trail	Few	Many
Booking notice	2–4 weeks	3–6 months (peak season)

Preparation and Gear

The Salkantay Pass (4,638m) demands appropriate preparation:

Acclimatisation: Minimum 2 full days in Cusco before departure. An acclimatisation day hike to Sacsayhuamán (3,700m) is recommended.
Down jacket: Nights at Soraypampa camp (3,900m) drop below freezing; the pass crossing is very cold and can be windy.
Waterproof jacket: Essential even in dry season — weather at the pass is unpredictable.
Trekking poles: Highly recommended for the long Salkantay Pass descent on Day 2.
Waterproof trekking boots

Best Season

Optimal: May–September. Clearest skies and most stable conditions at the pass. Good: March, April, October. Some rain; trail conditions requiring gaiters. Open but challenging: November–January. Rain, mud, and cold at altitude. Open in February: Unlike the Inca Trail, but demanding conditions — for experienced trekkers only.