Why hello there traveller.
Just like you, we’ve had Machu Picchu on our minds.
You know, that mysterious little city in the clouds, the one over a million people from
around the world visit every year?
Ah yes, that one.
Well we’ve got some good news and some bad news:
the good news?
There are countless ways to hike to Machu Picchu.
The bad news?
There are countless ways to hike to Machu Picchu.
And so, it’s time to answer the age old question:
Should You Hike the Inca Trail or the Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu?
Let’s start with the basics.
The renowned Inca Trail, has several typical durations to choose from, but most will opt
for the classic 4 day trek which will allow you to bask in nature while also passing by
impressive Inca ruins like Runkuraqay.
In total you’ll be covering 45km over 4 days and 3 nights, walking anywhere from 6
to 9 hours per day, until the fourth and final day in which you will only walk about 2 hours
before finally reaching Machu Picchu.
On the other hand, you have the Salkantay trek, which you can use to reach Machu Picchu
over a 5 day period.
You’ll begin in the foothills of Marcoccasa and end at the train station in Hidroelectrica.
Keep in mind that if you’re taking the Salkantay trek, you should expect a more strenuous climb,
thanks to the rougher terrain and steeper ascents and descents.
In total you’ll be hiking roughly 74km, nearly 30km more than the Inca Trail.
In other words: this one is not for the faint of heart.
Of course, each trail offers its own unique challenges and rewards.
For the Inca Trail, it’s day 2, when you reach Dead Woman’s Pass.
At 4215 m (or 13,828 feet), it’s the highest point of the trail and by far the most gruelling
to reach.
You’ll be more exposed to the elements, everything from bitter winds to torrential
rain.
But once you arrive you’ll be ecstatic with accomplishment.
The hardest part of the Salkantay Trek also arrives at Day 2 because that’s when you’ll
reach the Salkantay Pass, which boasts a dramatically high elevation of 4600m (or 15,092 feet),
even higher than Dead Woman’s Pass.
The climb pays itself off with some truly spectacular views!
If you value your alone time, consider the Salkantay Trek over the Inca Trail.
The latter is trekked so frequently that the Peruvian government has taken two steps to
remedy over-crowding: they only release 500 permits per day to would-be hikers and they
close access to the trail every February in order to complete conservation work.
This is very different from the Salkantay Trek, where fewer crowds means there’s no
need for the government to regulate the traffic that causes the daily limits on the Inca Trail.
The Salkantay Trek is also famous for its impressive scenery, with better chances of
spotting deers, chinchillas and spectacled bears thanks to the lower foot traffic.
You’ll also be able to take in stunning views of the Andes while trekking through
lush valleys and dense jungles.
While on the Inca Trail, you’ll experience everything from cloud forests to intriguing
ruins like Winay Wayna, and of course jungles, orchids, birds and butterflies.
Unfortunately you’ll have a much lower chance of seeing bigger wildlife because of the crowds.
Campsites will also be busier than you might prefer, especially during peak season.
Machu Picchu and the Inca Trail are busiest in July and August, but anytime between May
to October will strike a favourable balance between weather and crowds.
Alternatively, the Salkantay Trek can be hiked year round, depending on how much rain and
mud you can tolerate.
The ideal time to go is more or less the same as the Inca Trail’s season but late April
or early October are great times for trekking to avoid the rain and trail congestion.
And finally, to keep things simple, you can use an identical packing list for either trekking
routes!
The most important thing to remember is to pack as lightly as possible, prioritizing
rainproof gear.
You can download our free detailed packing list in the description below.
Once you know what you’ll need to conquer this adventure, you can decide exactly which
direction to head in.
Will it be the Inca Trail or Salkantay Trek calling your name?
If you’re still seeking inspiration, then watch another video and visit us on Days to
Come.
And don’t forget to hit that subscribe button.
Feeling generous?
Let your friends know how you got so worldly by sharing this video!
Leave a comment down below if you have your own trekking tip to share with the world and
until next time, happy travels!