How difficult is the Salkantay trek?
The difficulty of the Salkantay trek is rated by experts at a level of difficulty of 3-4 on a scale that reaches up to 7. Due to the high altittude and steep slopes, you will need a resonable level of fittness to complete this hike.
Is Salkantay trek harder than Inca Trail?
The most popular route is along the ancient Inca Trail, originally part of the Royal Road system connecting the Inca Empire. This classic trek takes you past many Inca sites as you hike through diverse scenery. The Salkantay Trek, on the other hand, is more strenuous and famous for its mountain scenery.
Where should I stay on Salkantay trail?
Standard Hotels
- Colpa Lodge. Resting in the Peruvian cloud forest at 10,300 feet, Colpa Lodge has a spectacular location near hot springs, the confluence of 3 rivers and an amazing view of the Colpampa Valley.
- Lucma Lodge.
- Salkantay Lodge.
- Salkantay Trek Campsites.
- Wayra Lodge.
How fit do I need to be for Salkantay Trek?
Due to the physical demands, anyone who wishes to trek Salkantay should at least be moderately fit. Plus, all trekkers should spend at least 2 days in Cuzco before the trek, to get acclimatized. Being extremely fit does not grant any immunity from altitude sickness.
Is Salkantay better than Inca Trail?
Salkantay trek’s highest point is 4630 m (15190 ft), almost 200 meters higher than the Inca Trail’s highest point. However, there is only one mountain above 3000 m (9842ft). The chances of having altitude problems are higher in Salkantay Trek, but you will be hiking only for two days at high altitudes.
Can you do the Salkantay trek by yourself?
The Salkantay Trek can be done on your own (either sleeping and eating at guesthouses or carrying your own tent and food) or with an organised group with a guide and porters. The Salkantay Trek does not require any special skill apart from general fitness and determination.
How cold is the Salkantay trek?
How Cold is the Salkantay Trek? Temperatures throughout the year follow a very identical pattern. The days are warm, well above 20°C (70/80°F), and the nights and early morning are cold (units above zero and sometimes below zero degrees Celsius).
How many days is Salkantay Trek?
four to six days
The Salkantay trek is 46 miles in length and reaches a maximum elevation of 15,090 feet (4,600 meters) at the Salkantay Pass. The entire Salkantay trek is usually completed in four to six days, but there are extensions that can turn the adventure into a mega eight-day odyssey through the Peruvian Andes if you’d like.
Should I book Salkantay trek in advance?
Unlike the Inca trail, which needs to be booked at least six months in advance, the Salkantay is a trek that can be organised with a lot less advance notice. This is because permits are not required to hike along this trail; instead, you’ll just need to make sure you’ve got a ticket for Machu Picchu.
Can you hike the Salkantay trail without a guide?
Unlike the classic Inca Trail, the Salkantay Trail doesn’t require a guide. The Salkantay trail is 46 miles in completion that takes you through rugged mountain terrain and connects Cusco to the Inca citadel of Machu Picchu. The maximum elevation of this strenuous trek is at 15,090 feet at the Salkantay Pass.
Is the Salkantay trek free?
Permits & Fees: No permits are needed to hike the Salkantay Trek. However, you will need to purchase an entrance ticket to the Machu Picchu archeological site and Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu peaks. Independent hikers can organise these in advance through the official Peruvian Ministry of Culture website.
What month is best for Machu Picchu?
Contrary to popular belief, the best time to visit Machu Picchu or hike the Inca Trail is before and after the rainy season, that is late March, April, May, and September, October, and early November, the dry season months, that is June July and August, are great too but beware of the crowds.
Do you need to book Salkantay trek in advance?
Is Salkantay trek free?
Can you do the Salkantay trek on your own?
Can you hike Salkantay trek without guide?
Unlike the classic Inca Trail, the Salkantay Trail doesn’t require a guide. The Salkantay trail is 46 miles in completion that takes you through rugged mountain terrain and connects Cusco to the Inca citadel of Machu Picchu.
What should I wear to Machu Picchu?
The ideal clothes for Machu Picchu include lots of lightweight layers. These are ideal all year round as they can be removed or added to as the weather changes. Make sure you also have waterproof footwear and a poncho or rain jacket, plus sun protection whenever you go.
How many days do you need in Machu Picchu?
I’d suggest you need at least 9 days in Peru to take in Machu Picchu and the surrounding Incan ruins, with time to explore Cuzco before or after. With a little extra traveling time you can extend your journey to cover time in the Peruvian Amazon, Lake Titicaca or the Colca Valley.
What can you not bring to Machu Picchu?
As of January 1, 2019, all disposable plastic bottles are not allowed inside Machu Picchu. You can still bring in reusable water bottles including Camelbak or Nalgene bottles. Also, don’t bring in disposable food containers. These are banned too.
What is the best month to travel to Machu Picchu?
The winter (May – September) is the driest season and therefore the best time of year to travel, especially if you’re planning to visit Cusco or trek to Machu Picchu. The summer (December – March) is warmer of course, but is also the wettest season, with frequent heavy showers.
What is the best month to go to Machu Picchu?
What is the best month to travel to Peru?
The best time to visit Peru is during the dry season between May and October, especially if you plan to go on a trek. It is a wonderful time, with sunny days and bright blue skies, but early booking is crucial because it’s the peak season.
Do you need walking boots for Machu Picchu?
Do I need hiking boots for Machu Picchu? Hiking shoes are absolutely necessary if you are planning a trek up to Machu Picchu, as the terrain can be steep and rugged, requiring solid footing with good ankle support.
How many days should I spend in Peru?
How much time should I spend in Peru? We recommend spending ten days to two weeks in Peru, as this allows visitors to visit plenty of the country’s major highlights along with some off-the-beaten-path destinations.
Do you need to be fit to visit Machu Picchu?
Treks to Machu Picchu vary in difficulty and length, but all require a basic level of fitness. In general you will be trekking anywhere between 10-15km a day, for up to six days on the longer routes (i.e. Choquequirao or Salkantay / Inca Trail Combo).