One of the most popular activities for anyone visiting Peru, and especially Cusco, is a trek to Machu Picchu. You get to meet new friends along the way, have an amazing time, and end it all with a visit to one of the modern world wonders.
There’s a tough dilemma, though. With there being a selection of ways to get to Machu Picchu, how do you know which one you should choose? Well, today we’re here to help you and let you in on the top 5 reasons why you should choose the Salkantay Trek.
The Scenery
In comparison to the other treks available, the Salkantay route has the most stunning scenery. You’ll pass through all kinds of climates and see some of the most spectacular views you’ve ever seen.
You get to experience cold temperatures and snowy mountain peaks before you descend into the cloud forest, which is incredibly misty. Once you emerge on the other side, you’ll be heading into the jungle, where you’ll no longer feel the cold, but rather very warm.
You get to experience cold temperatures and snowy mountain peaks before you descend into the cloud forest, which is incredibly misty. Once you emerge on the other side, you’ll be heading into the jungle, where you’ll no longer feel the cold, but rather very warm.
Once you emerge on the other side, you’ll be heading into the jungle, where you’ll no longer feel the cold, but rather very warm.
Make sure you take your camera with you to enjoy all the fascinating landscapes for years to come and show everyone at home.
The Places You Visit
Along the trek you get to visit some amazing sites as well. No one wants to set off on a trek to Machu Picchu and not see any other Inca ruins. Well, fear not! On the 5 day Salkantay trek you visit the spectacular sire of Llactapata. It’s truly stunning and you even get to enjoy your first sighting of Machu Picchu in the distance.
As well as that, on your first day you’ll hike up to the truly beautiful Humantay Lake that many describe as a gem in the middle of the mountains. It boasts a beautiful clear turquoise colour that sits in the middle of towering mountains with snowy peaks. You won’t have seen anything like it before!
If that wasn’t enough, you’ll pass through the amazing Salkantay Pass at over 4,600m on the second day. Not a lot of people can say that they’ve hiked that high. It’s an excellent spot to get some memorable photographs.
In addition to all the walking, you probably want some time to rest. You get the chance to visit the Cocalmayo hot springs, which is a very welcomed spot for some rest and relaxation after all your trekking. You can relax in the hot water with mountains all around and the river rushing past.
Less Crowded
Sure, the sound of the Inca Trail is exciting, but due to the name and huge popularity, it can be full of people. Not everyone wants their time hiking through wild mountain roads to be busy with other visitors.
The Salkantayt trail is, in general, much quieter. If you get ahead of the group or decide to lag behind a little, you may find that you get some time all to yourself to enjoy the stunning surroundings. You’ll also find the campsites relaxing with not too many other folk around.
Experience How People Live in the Wilderness
As you walk through the mountain trails, you’ll occasionally come across small communities. It can be absolutely fascinating to see how people live up here, as it’s so different to what you’ll be used to. They are super friendly and always happy to see trekkers passing by.
You’ll find that many don’t have electricity, and also grow a lot of their own food as it’s no easy feat for them to get to the grocery store or corner shop to top up on necessities.
You’ll also be stopping for lunch in many of these areas along the trek, where you’ll get to taste some of the best Andean food that Peru has to offer. The chefs will, to your surprise, manage to cook up a delicious feast whether in a hut or tent!
The Cost
Another reason why many choose this trek, and why we think it’s an excellent option, is that it doesn’t cost too much. In comparison to the Inca Trail, it’s much more affordable. The main reason being that the Inca Trail requires a special permit, whereas the Salkantay doesn’t.
The price tag makes this hike much more accessible for everyone, and you’ll still have the most wonderful time!
Choose the Salkantay Trek; You Won’t Be Disappointed
So, there you have it! Our top 5 reasons why you should opt for the Salkantay trek. Of course, the list could go on and on, but we think this enough to help you decide. The scenery, places you visit, and the Andean villages along the way will amaze you and make for some perfect shots with your camera. If you like small groups and something a little more affordable, this is the trek for you.
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