Salkantay Trek vs Inca Trail: Which is the Best Way to Machu Picchu?
Machu Picchu is one of the modern wonders of the world and a must-see for any traveler visiting Peru. There are two main routes to reach Machu Picchu: the Inca Trail and the Salkantay Trek. Both are challenging but rewarding hikes that offer stunning views of the Andes Mountains.
Salkantay Trek

- Scenic Diversity: The Salkantay Trek offers a wider variety of landscapes, including snow-capped mountains, lush jungles, and high-altitude plateaus. It’s known for its stunning natural beauty.
- Less Crowded: The Salkantay Trek is typically less crowded than the Inca Trail, making it a good choice for those seeking a quieter and more solitary experience.
- Altitude: This trek reaches higher altitudes (up to 4,600 meters or 15,100 feet), which can be challenging for some people. Proper acclimatization is essential.
- No Permit Required: You don’t need a permit to hike the Salkantay Trek, making it more accessible in terms of booking.
- Cultural Interaction: While you won’t pass as many Inca ruins as on the Inca Trail, you’ll have opportunities to interact with local communities along the way.
Inca Trail:

- Historical Significance: The Inca Trail is renowned for its historical significance, as it was once a part of the ancient Inca road system. It passes through several well-preserved archaeological sites, such as Winay Wayna and Intipata.
- Permit Requirement: The Inca Trail has a limited number of permits available each day, which helps control the number of hikers on the trail. It’s necessary to book your permit well in advance.
- Shorter Distance: The Inca Trail is shorter in terms of the number of trekking days (usually 4 days), which can be appealing to those with limited time.
- Cultural Experience: It offers a more culturally immersive experience, as you pass through historical sites and can learn about Inca history and culture from knowledgeable guides.
- Altitude: While the Inca Trail does have high-altitude sections, it generally stays at lower altitudes than the Salkantay Trek.
Which is the Best Trail?
The best way to decide which trail is right for you depends on your interests and budget. If you are looking for a challenging hike with stunning views, the Salkantay Trek is a good option. If you are looking for a shorter and more direct hike with fewer crowds, the Inca Trail is a better option.
Here is a table comparing the two trails Salkantay Trek vs Inca Trail
Feature | Inca Trail | Salkantay Trek |
---|---|---|
Duration | 4 days | 5 days |
Distance | 46 kilometers | 70 kilometers |
Maximum altitude | 4,215 meters | 4,630 meters |
Cost | $600 – $1,000 | $500- $900 |
Popularity | High | Low |
Difficulty | Challenging | Challenging |
Landscapes | Mountains, valleys, rivers, and forests | Mountains, glaciers, forests, and tropical rainforests |
Archaeological sites | Patallacta/Llactapata, Runkurakay, Sayacmarca, Phuyupatamarca, Intipata, Wiñay Wayna, Sun Gate, Machu Picchu | LLACTAPATA ,Machu Picchu |
Other Options | 2-day short trek available | Can be done in 4 days if you skip Humantay Lagoon |
Trail Closed | February | No, but some operators close February-March |
Risk of Altitude Sickness | Lower altitude but more time above 3,000m | Higher, especially on nights 1 and 2 sleeping above 3,800m |
Tips for Choosing a Trail
Choosing between the Salkantay Trek and the Inca Trail in Peru depends on your preferences and priorities. The Salkantay Trek is a moderately challenging 5-day adventure offering diverse landscapes, from lush jungles to high mountain passes, with fewer crowds and more affordable options. It’s an excellent choice for those seeking a physically demanding, nature-centric experience with some cultural interactions. On the other hand, the Inca Trail is a classic, 4-day trek that focuses on Inca history and leads to the iconic Machu Picchu. While it offers a well-preserved historical journey, obtaining permits can be competitive and costly, and it can get quite crowded.
Additional Information
Here are some additional details that you may want to include in your blog post:
- The Inca Trail is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
- The Salkantay Trek is a great option for those who want to avoid the crowds on the Inca Trail.
- Both trails offer stunning views of the Andes Mountains.
- The Inca Trail is a more challenging hike than the Salkantay Trek.