Which route should you choose?<\/strong> In this blog, we\u2019ll explain the key differences between the two so you can make an informed decision and plan the perfect adventure for your trip to Peru. Let\u2019s get started!<\/p>\n\n\n\n Welcome to one of the most impressive destinations in the world! Cusco, the ancient capital of the Incas, is surrounded by the high mountains of the Andes, making it one of the best places for hiking in South America<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Here you can take tours to Machu Picchu, hike to Rainbow Mountain, climb to Humantay Lake… or combine it all! The Salkantay Trek and the Ausangate Trek take you to discover the best of the Peruvian Andes, with routes that combine some of the top sites in Peru. In addition, they hold special meaning for the local population.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Both Salkantay Mountain<\/strong> and Ausangate Mountain<\/strong> are considered “<\/strong>Apus<\/strong><\/a>“<\/strong> in the Andean worldview: sacred spirits that protect communities and nature, helping to maintain the balance of the natural world. In Cusco<\/strong>, the energy of these mountains is felt both in the imperial city and its surroundings.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Trekking in such a unique and energy-filled natural environment as Salkantay and Ausangate is a once-in-a-lifetime experience.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The Salkantay Trek is one of the most fascinating hiking routes in Peru. It is an alternative route to Machu Picchu<\/strong><\/a>, although it has come to be recognized as one of the best hikes in the world<\/strong> by National Geographic magazine. It is ideal for travelers seeking adventure and diverse landscapes. In addition, it offers the possibility of sleeping in exclusive and comfortable camps, enjoying a well-deserved rest after intense days of trekking.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The classic version of the Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu<\/strong><\/a> includes:<\/p>\n\n\n\n For true hiking enthusiasts, the Ausangate Trek is a gem not to be missed. Ausangate is the fifth highest mountain in Peru<\/strong> (6,372 meters \/ 20,905 feet above sea level) in the Vilcanota mountain range. In addition to its grandeur, Ausangate is surrounded by myths and legends that make it a must-visit place in Peru.<\/p>\n\n\n\n You\u2019ll also enjoy rewarding interactions with local villagers and learn about aspects of their culture. An experience that will exceed the highest expectations of an epic journey.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The classic version of the Ausangate Trek<\/strong><\/a> will show you:<\/p>\n\n\n\n The Salkantay Trek ranges from moderate to challenging difficulty,<\/strong> mainly due to altitude changes, rugged terrain, and shifting weather conditions. The altitude can be a challenge for some, especially if they are not acclimatized, adding to the overall difficulty of the route. The Salkantay Trek reaches high elevations, with the highest point at the Salkantay Pass at 4,630 meters \/ 15,190 feet above sea level.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Additionally, some sections feature uneven and rocky terrain, steep slopes, and muddy paths, which can make the trail slippery and more physically demanding.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The Ausangate Trek has a challenging difficulty level<\/strong>, though it is more demanding in terms of altitude. The Ausangate route reaches higher elevations, exceeding 5,200 meters \/ 17,060 feet above sea level. It takes place at higher altitudes than many other routes in Peru, requiring excellent acclimatization and good physical condition.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Another challenge on the route is the cold, especially during the frost season. In the months of June, July, and August, temperatures can drop significantly at night, even below 0\u202f\u00b0C (32\u202f\u00b0F). Therefore, it is essential to bring appropriate warm clothing.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Hiker\u2019s tip:<\/strong> Both the Salkantay Trek and the Ausangate Trek are challenging due to the altitude, so it\u2019s necessary to acclimate in Cusco a few days before starting the journey. You can take light tours and excursions <\/strong><\/a>during the first few days to explore the imperial city and get used to the altitude.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The weather on the Salkantay Trek<\/strong><\/a> is variable, as it passes through high mountain areas and Andean jungle zones. You must be prepared for both cold and heat.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The weather on the Ausangate Trek<\/strong><\/a> is cold but stable, without too many drastic changes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Protect yourself from the sun! <\/strong>Although temperatures can be cold, the sun is very intense at these high altitudes. Always use sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses, especially during the dry season.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The Salkantay Trek takes you from the high Andes mountains to the citadel of Machu Picchu<\/strong> in the high jungle, offering great landscape diversity along the way.<\/p>\n\n\n\n On the other hand, the Ausangate Trek focuses on high mountain scenery, glaciers, and intensely colored lakes, and can also include the Rainbow Mountain<\/strong>. Both treks are truly amazing, but the choice will depend on your personal preferences:<\/p>\n\n\n\n During the Salkantay Trek, you\u2019ll be amazed by landscapes as varied as they are breathtaking. At the start of the journey, Humantay Lake<\/strong> welcomes you with its turquoise waters and snowy mountain surroundings. Later, you\u2019ll ascend to the Salkantay Pass<\/strong>, the highest point of the route, where you\u2019ll enjoy spectacular views of Salkantay Mountain<\/strong><\/a> and its glaciers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n As you continue, the scenery changes dramatically. From the cold Andean peaks, you\u2019ll enter a warmer, more humid environment filled with vegetation, rivers, waterfalls, and small local farms. As you approach Aguas Calientes, the town at the base of Machu Picchu, the landscape transforms into a subtropical, forested setting. You\u2019ll have one of the best views of Machu Picchu <\/strong>from Llactapata<\/strong>, an ancient archaeological site you\u2019ll explore on the fourth day of your classic Salkantay Trek.<\/p>\n\n\n\n You\u2019ll pass through trails surrounded by vegetation and enjoy panoramic views of the Urubamba River, which will accompany you on your journey. Finally, you\u2019ll feel the full energy of Machu Picchu as you explore its most important sites. You\u2019ll also have an impressive panorama of the Machu Picchu mountains that surround the citadel.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Contemplate Machu Picchu from above. <\/strong>Once inside the citadel, you can choose to climb the Machu Picchu mountains<\/strong><\/a> for a panoramic view of the site and its surroundings. Remember to book in advance! There are limited spots and high demand.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The Ausangate Trek takes place near Ausangate Mountain<\/strong><\/a> and offers spectacular views of the glaciers, peaks, and snow-capped mountains of the Peruvian Andes. The landscape you\u2019ll see here from the very beginning is more alpine and high-mountain in nature.<\/p>\n\n\n\n During the Ausangate Trek, you\u2019ll immerse yourself in otherworldly scenery. You\u2019ll pass by intensely colored lagoons, such as Ausangatecocha Lake and the impressive Sibinacocha Lake\u2014one of the largest in the range\u2014surrounded by mountains. Along the way, you\u2019ll see towering glaciers, deep valleys, stunning rock formations, and terrain rich in natural minerals that fill the landscape with reddish, green, and ochre tones.<\/p>\n\n\n\n You\u2019ll also cross mountain passes with panoramic views. Throughout the journey, you\u2019ll share moments with local communities, learn about their traditional way of life, and see llamas and alpacas grazing freely. Without a doubt, it is a unique visual, cultural, and spiritual experience in one of the most authentic corners of the Peruvian Andes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The distance of the classic Salkantay Trek<\/strong> is approximately 78 kilometers \/ 48.5 miles, completed in 5 days. The route may vary slightly depending on the agency and itinerary you choose. At Salkantay Trekking, we offer different Salkantay trek<\/strong><\/a> options of various lengths, with shorter and longer alternatives to suit all types of travelers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n We could say that the Salkantay trek is longer than the Ausangate trek. However, despite the greater distance, the altitude on the Ausangate route plays a key role in its difficulty and walking pace.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The distance of the classic Ausangate Trek is 55.5 kilometers \/ 34.5 miles, completed in 5 days. Just like the Salkantay trek, there are several route variations for the Ausangate trek<\/strong><\/a>. In general, trekking routes in the Ausangate area can vary in length, but a typical itinerary covers around 60 to 70 kilometers over several days.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Get ready for the trek! <\/strong>Make sure you’re in good physical shape for several days of hiking. You can train at Discovering the Salkantay Trek and the Ausangate Trek<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
![\"Tourists](\"https:\/\/www.salkantaytrekking.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/04\/Tourists-walking-Salkantay-pass-mountain.jpg\")
![\"Tourist](\"https:\/\/www.salkantaytrekking.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/Ausangate-Mountain.jpg\")
Salkantay Trek<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
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![\"Tourists](\"https:\/\/www.salkantaytrekking.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/trek-machu-picchu-salkantay-trek.jpg\")
![\"Tourist](\"https:\/\/www.salkantaytrekking.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/Salkantay-Trek.jpg\")
Ausangate Trek<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
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![\"Tourist](\"https:\/\/www.salkantaytrekking.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/06\/The-Ausangate-Trek.jpg\")
![\"Rainbow](\"https:\/\/www.salkantaytrekking.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/09\/Rainbow-Mountain-Vinicunca.jpg\")
Difficulty level<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
How difficult is the Salkantay Trek?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
How hard is Ausangate Trek?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
![\"Group](\"https:\/\/www.salkantaytrekking.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/the-Salkantay-Pass.jpg\")
![\"A](\"https:\/\/www.salkantaytrekking.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/09\/the-Ausangate-route.jpg\")
Weather<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Salkantay Trek Weather<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
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From the third day on, the temperature rises. In the lower areas, the weather tends to be warm during the day, with temperatures ranging between 20\u00b0C and 25\u00b0C (68\u00b0F to 77\u00b0F).<\/li>\n\n\n\nAusangate Trek Weather<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
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![\"Group](\"https:\/\/www.salkantaytrekking.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/Tourist-cloud-forest.jpg\")
![\"Group](\"https:\/\/www.salkantaytrekking.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/09\/Group-tourists-Ausangate-Trail.jpg\")
Landscapes<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Landscape on the Salkantay Trek:<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
![\"Two](\"https:\/\/www.salkantaytrekking.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/Humantay-Lake.jpg\")
![\"Happy](\"https:\/\/www.salkantaytrekking.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/04\/Happy-tourists-Salkantay-Pass.jpg\")
![\"Tourist](\"https:\/\/www.salkantaytrekking.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/Machu-Picchu.jpg\")
Landscape on the Ausangate Trek:<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
![\"women](\"https:\/\/www.salkantaytrekking.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/09\/llamas-en-ausangate-817x1024.jpg\")
![\"Vinicunca](\"https:\/\/www.salkantaytrekking.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/11\/rainbow-mountain-@bui_basics-819x1024.jpg\")
Distance<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Salkantay Trek Distance<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
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Ausangate Trek Distance<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
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