Are you considering exploring the majestic Andes mountains during your visit to Cusco, Peru, but you’re still deciding which hike to embark on? You’re in the right place! The Salkantay trek and the Ausangate trek are two of the most renowned and cherished hiking routes in the Peruvian Andes.
In this blog, I’ll guide you through the key differences between both routes so that you can make an informed decision and plan the perfect adventure for your trip to Peru. Let’s get started!
Salkantay Trek
The Salkantay trek is one of Peru’s most thrilling hiking routes. National Geographic Adventure Travel Magazine has also recognized it as one of the world’s best hikes.
The classic version of the Salkantay trek to Machu Picchu will lead you to the magical Humantay Lake, take you over the Salkantay Pass, offer a chance to relax in the Cocalmayo hot springs, and ultimately allow you to explore Machu Picchu while uncovering its incredible history.
Ausangate Trek
For true hiking enthusiasts, the Ausangate trek is a gem that should not be missed. This majestic mountain is the fifth highest in the country (6,385 meters above sea level) in the Vilcanota mountain range. In addition to its grandeur, Ausangate is wrapped in myths and legends that make it an essential destination in Peru.
You’ll also have the rewarding opportunity to interact with local residents and experience their rich cultural heritage, which can easily exceed the highest expectations of an epic journey.
The Ausangate trek will allow you to explore the famous Rainbow Mountain and visit the village of Pacchanta, where you can soak in hot springs and discover a culture that seems frozen in time.
Challenge Level
How difficult is the Salkantay Trek?
The Salkantay trail reaches high altitudes, with the highest point at Abra Salkantay at approximately 4,600 meters above sea level. Altitude can be challenging for some, mainly if they are not acclimated to the elevation.
How hard is Ausangate Trek?
The Ausangate trek is higher and more challenging in terms of altitude, with passes exceeding 5,200 meters above sea level.
Extra Tip // Both the Salkantay and Ausangate treks are challenging due to the altitude, so it’s essential to acclimatize in Cusco a few days before starting the journey. You can take tours and light excursions in the first few days to explore the imperial city.
Weather
Salkantay Trek Weather
- Temperature: The Salkantay trek takes place in an area that spans from high altitudes in the mountains to the lowlands of the tropical rainforest. In lower areas like the starting point in Mollepata, the weather tends to be warm during the day, with temperatures ranging from 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F). However, temperatures can drop below 0°C (32°F) at night at higher altitudes.
- Precipitation: The rainy season in Salkantay is typically from November to March. During this period, you will likely encounter rain on the trail, making the paths slippery and challenging.
Read Later // How to Prepare for the Salkantay Trek
Ausangate Trek Weather
- Temperatures: The Ausangate trek is situated at even higher altitudes than the Salkantay trek. This results in generally colder temperatures. During the day, temperatures can range from 0°C to 15°C (32°F to 59°F) at higher altitudes, but at night, they can drop below 0°C (32°F).
- Precipitation: Similar to Salkantay, the rainy season in the Ausangate region typically occurs from November to March. You can expect a higher likelihood of rainfall during this period.
Landscapes
The Salkantay trek takes you from the high jungle to the Machu Picchu citadel, offering a variety of landscapes along the way. On the other hand, the Ausangate trek focuses on high-mountain landscapes, glaciers, and intensely colored lakes. Both treks are truly incredible, but the choice will depend on your personal preferences:
Landscape on the Salkantay Trek:
As you ascend to the Salkantay Pass, you’ll be rewarded with stunning views of the Salkantay Mountain and its surrounding glaciers.
As you approach Aguas Calientes, the base city of Machu Picchu, the landscape transforms into a subtropical and forested environment. You’ll have one of the world’s best views of Machu Picchu from Llactapata, an ancient archaeological site you’ll explore on the fourth day of your classic Salkantay trek. You’ll pass through vegetated trails and enjoy panoramic views of the Urubamba River that accompany you on your journey. Finally, you’ll feel the energy of Machu Picchu as you explore its most important sites.
Landscape on the Ausangate Trek:
The Ausangate trek unfolds in the vicinity of Ausangate Mountain and offers spectacular views of glaciers, peaks, and snow-capped mountains. The landscape you’ll witness here from the beginning is more alpine and high-mountain.
During the trek, you’ll pass by incredible intensely colored lakes, such as Ausangatecocha Lake and Sibinacocha Lake, which appear to be painted by the hand of nature. Additionally, you’ll interact with local communities and witness the grace of llamas and alpacas grazing in their surroundings.
Distance
Salkantay Trek Distance
Hikers cover approximately 74 kilometers on the Salkantay trek. The distance may vary slightly depending on the agency and itinerary you choose. At Salkantay Trekking, we offer multi-day Salkantay treks.
Ausangate Trek Distance
Similar to Salkantay, the Ausangate trek has various routes. Generally, hiking routes in the Ausangate area can vary in distance, but a typical itinerary can encompass around 60 to 70 kilometers over several days.
Crowds
The Salkantay Trek is one of the popular routes to reach Machu Picchu, so you can expect to encounter more hikers on the trail, though fewer than the globally renowned Inca Trail.
In contrast, the Ausangate trek is less traveled, offering a quieter and more secluded experience in nature.
Camps
Where to Sleep on the Salkantay Trek?
At Salkantay Trekking, you’ll have the opportunity to spend nights in various accommodations: Sky Camp in Soraypampa, Andean Huts in Chaullay, Jungle Domes in Lucmabamba, and a comfortable hotel in Aguas Calientes before reaching majestic Machu Picchu.
Additional Note // If you opt for a Salkantay premium version, you can stay in the Mountain Sky View in Collpapampa, replacing the Andean Huts in Chaullay. They are a 5-star exclusive option amidst the mountains and valleys, worth experiencing.
Where to Sleep on the Ausangate Trek?
Unlike the Salkantay trek, on the Ausangate trek, you’ll sleep in comfortable and cozy tents, enjoying nature and appreciating the Peruvian Andes. Accommodation infrastructure is more limited than other routes like Salkantay or the Inca Trail. You should be prepared for rusticity and changing weather conditions.
Which One to Choose?
The choice between these two adventures through Peru’s majestic sacred mountains depends on your preferences, physical fitness level, and what you desire to experience in your journey through Peruvian nature.
If you seek a gradual immersion into the world of Andean trekking and wish to experience a variety of landscapes, the Salkantay trek is an excellent choice. On the other hand, if you are looking for a more extreme challenge and desire a high-mountain environment, the Ausangate trek is the right choice.
Whichever you choose, with Salkantay Trekking, you can be sure of trek in Peru and having an unforgettable experience in the Peruvian Andes.
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