Salkantay Trek FAQ's

Salkantay Trek FAQ’s

If you decided to do the Salkantay trek, chances are you will have some duas. To help you solve them, we have compiled frequently asked questions from our travelers

¿It is recommended to do the Salkantay trek?

Without a doubt, the Salkantay trek is known as the best alternative route to Machu Picchu, it could even be said that it is better than the world famous Inca Trail. This adventurous hike comes with some challenges, but you will be rewarded with the most incredible views and fantastic experiences you have ever had.

¿The Salkantay route is difficult?

The salkantay trek to Machu Picchu is a moderate to challenging trek. The most difficult part of the route is the second day, when you ascend to Abra Salkantay (4,600 m.s.n.m). It is a 3-hour ascent considered a real challenge for travelers, due to its high altitude

On day 1 in the afternoon, the walk is relatively demanding when going up to the Humantay lagoon, days 3 and 4 are calmer because they have long descents along the way

¿What is the walking distance for Salkantay?

You will walk around 7 hours per day, but the second day will be longer and the most challenging. You can find the exact travel times per day in our itineraries. In the same way, here is a brief summary of the distance that you will do every morning in the classic  salkantay 5 days:

·         Day 1: 10km

·         Day 2: 22km

·         Day 3: 18km

·         Day 4: 25km

·         Day 5: There is no exact distance, since you will explore Machu Picchu at your own pace.

¿Can I rent equipment for the salkantay trek?

For all our treks we will provide you with accommodation. In addition, we have several camping items available if you wish to rent. All our equipment is top of the line and you can book in advance or at the briefing. The items available are:

·         A sleeping bag for -15°C and a sleeping bag liner

·         Thermarest Deluxe Air Mattress

·         Trekking sticks

¿Is water included in the trekking?

Yes. You will have to make sure you have enough water for the first morning. Afterwards, we will provide you with boiled water at every breakfast, lunch and dinner. The water is clean and safe to drink, so you can drink it without any problem.

You will have to bring your own water bottle or Camelback to refill it. We do not recommend plastic bottles, since we believe in sustainable tourism and take care of the route

If you need additional water or any other drink somewhere along the way, you will find shops or kiosks that sell them.

¿Do I need a permit for the salkantay Trek?

Except for our Salkantay and Inca Trail7 days, Salkantay treks do not require a permit. However, you must pay 10 soles to enter, but this does not mean that you get a permit in advance

What is the best time of the year to do the Salkantay trek?

The answer to this question varies according to your preferences. If you want to visit Cusco during the dry season, then it is better to arrive between May and October. The rest of the year it rains most of the days and we can never be sure of having a journey without precipitation. June and July are the busiest months, so you must book well in advance. Also, at this time of year it's cold at night.

Can I participate as an independent hiker?

If you can make it, independent travelers join us almost daily for our hikes. However, you should keep in mind that you will probably have to share accommodation with another independent hiker of the same sex. If you prefer to have a single hotel room, we can arrange it for you for an additional amount.

¿I will have access to the bathrooms during the route?

Yes, in each of the camps, we have sanitary facilities. You will also find some along the route and at each stop to eat

¿I will be able to charge my devices during the walk?

Yes, in each of our camps you will have the possibility to charge your devices. However, not everyone has the option of leaving their device charging overnight.

¿Will I have WIFI during the walk?

If you want to get in touch with your friends and family back home, you will find Wifi available for hours the second and third night of the Salkantay Trail. Keep in mind that there is an additional cost of 10 soles for the service.

The fourth night you will spend in a hotel in Aguas Calientes, where you will also have access to WIFI

Do I need to bring extra money for the walk?

Although everything is included and paid in advance, you must bring extra money. We suggest 300 or 400 Peruvian soles. This is because, in the rural areas of the country, there will be no option to pay in dollars.

It is very likely that you do not need money or at least not all of it. However, in an emergency, it is always better to carry cash

Perhaps you will find a part of the route relatively difficult and require a means of transport to help you reach the next section: a car, a horse or a train. In the 5 days salkantay trek there are also some extra activities available, such as hot springs. You can also buy additional drinks and snacks along the trail