The flora and fauna of the Salkantay Trek, one of Peru’s most spectacular routes, is extraordinarily rich, encompassing everything from cold, high-altitude zones to warm forests. This geographic diversity, reaching heights above 4,600 meters (15,091 feet), hosts unique biodiversity. Along the trek, you’ll encounter a wide variety of species that change as you ascend or descend, turning this adventure into an unforgettable experience.
Throughout the Salkantay trek route, you’ll observe a diverse array of flora and fauna, from mountain plants to tropical species, as well as animals ranging from small rodents to majestic predators. Don’t forget your camera— the landscapes and wildlife on the Salkantay Trek offer unmatched photo opportunities. Get ready for a journey full of surprises!
Flora and Fauna in Salkantay Trek
Flora in Salkantay Trek:
The Salkantay Trek is rich in botanical diversity, with flora varying by altitude. As you advance along the trek, you’ll pass through multiple ecosystems, from arid, cold high-altitude zones to warmer, more humid areas near the jungle. Below are some of the species you can admire:
- Ichu (Stipa ichu): A hardy grass growing at the highest points along the Salkantay trek. This native plant endures extreme temperatures and is traditionally used as a building material, especially for making adobe bricks and roofing.
- Queuña (Polylepis): This tree, with reddish, peeling bark, grows at high altitudes, forming forests in seemingly impossible locations. Its preservation is crucial for soil conservation and ecosystem biodiversity.

Ichu and Queuña on the Salkantay trek route.
- Orchids (Orchidaceae): These epiphytic plants are known for their exotic, varied flowers. Found in the Cusco jungle, they add to the beauty and diversity of the local flora.
- Bromeliads (Bromeliaceae): Epiphytic or terrestrial plants commonly found in tropical areas. Known for storing water in their leaves, they grow on trees or in the ground.
Orchids and bromeliads on the Salkantay trek route.
- Heliconias (Heliconiaceae): Colorful tropical plants with striking flowers, attracting pollinators like hummingbirds. They grow in the lowest, wettest areas along the trekking route.
- Lupin (Lupinus): A leguminous plant found at high altitudes along the Salkantay trek. It produces eye-catching flowers and protein-rich seeds, benefiting both local flora and agriculture.
Heliconia and lupin on the Salkantay trekking route.
- Molle (Schinus molle): Also known as “false pepper,” this aromatic evergreen tree’s small red fruits are used in traditional medicine and as a spice.
- Chachacomo (Escallonia resinosa): A tree that primarily grows at high altitudes in the Peruvian mountains along the Salkantay trek. Its wood is traditionally used in construction, and its leaves have medicinal properties.
Molle and chachacomo on the Salkantay trekking route.
- Mutuy (Cassia tomentosa): A shrub with striking yellow flowers, used in traditional medicine for various ailments. It typically grows in the lower, humid parts of the trek route.
- Alder (Alnus acuminata): A tree that often grows in high-altitude areas along the trek, especially near rivers. It’s known for improving soil fertility due to its nitrogen-fixing ability.
Mutuy and alder on the Salkantay trekking route.
The diversity of flora on the Salkantay trek reflects the richness of plant life in the Andes and the Amazon. As you approach Machu Picchu, you’ll notice how the landscape becomes increasingly lush and diverse.
Fauna in Salkantay Trek:
The fauna on the Salkantay Trek is equally impressive, with species adapted to both cold highlands and warmer jungle areas. Although some of these animals are elusive, it’s worth watching for the following species:
- Vicuñas (Vicugna Vicugna): Wild animals related to llamas and alpacas, living at high altitudes and known for their agility and resilience on rough terrain.
- Llamas (Lama glama): Domesticated for thousands of years, llamas are primarily used as pack animals. They are larger than alpacas, with thicker wool, and are known to be sociable animals.
Vicuña and llama on the Salkantay trekking route.
- Alpacas (Vicugna pacos): Also domesticated, alpacas are known for their soft, fine wool. They are smaller than llamas and are raised primarily for their fiber, which is used to make high-quality textiles.
- Pumas (Puma concolor): This large feline is the top predator in high Andean regions. Elusive and hard to spot, pumas are essential for ecosystem balance as they hunt Andean deer and other local wildlife.
Alpaca and puma on the Salkantay trekking route.
- Andean deer (Hippocamelus antisensis): Also known as taruca, these herbivores live at high altitudes in the mountains, feeding on grasses and shrubs. Unfortunately, they are threatened by habitat loss.
- Condor (Vultur gryphus): One of the largest flying birds in the world, the condor is a symbol of Andean culture and is known for its ability to soar to great heights. It primarily feeds on carrion.
Andean deer and condor on the Salkantay trekking route.
- Peregrine falcon (Falco peregrinus): Known as the fastest animal in the world, the peregrine falcon can reach speeds of up to 320 km/h (200 mph) when diving to hunt small birds or mammals.
- Hummingbirds: Small birds known for their ability to fly in all directions. Essential for pollinating many Andean flowers, their bright plumage makes them a highlight of the trek.
Peregrine falcon and hummingbird on the Salkantay trekking route.
- Andean duck (Merganetta armata): A small to medium-sized duck found in high-altitude lakes and wetlands. Recognizable by its upright tail and distinctive striping.
- Mountain lizards (Liolaemus montanus): Small reptiles adapted to the harsh conditions of high altitudes. These cold-blooded reptiles bask on rocks to warm up.
Duck and lizard on the Salkantay trekking route.
- Andean frogs (Telmatobius marmoratus): These small frogs live in rivers and lakes in the Andean region, adapted to extreme cold and an essential part of the local aquatic ecosystem.
- Butterflies: The butterflies found on the Salkantay trek vary greatly in size and color. They play a key role in pollinating local plants.
Frog and butterfly on the Salkantay trekking route.
- Beetles: These insects vary in shape and color, many playing important roles in decomposing organic matter and nutrient cycling in the soil.
Beetle on the Salkantay trekking route.
The fauna of the Salkantay Trek is vast and diverse. Each species, from hummingbirds to large mammals like the puma and spectacled bear, forms part of a unique ecosystem that must be respected and preserved. This list is only a small representation of the many species inhabiting this unique ecosystem.
Explore the Incredible Flora and Fauna of Salkantay Trek
One crucial topic to mention: environmental care. No matter which trekking route you choose, remember to leave no waste along the way. Carry any trash in your backpack to avoid harming the local flora and fauna. Many species on the Salkantay Trek could be severely impacted by litter. Be sure to dispose of trash in designated areas, which you’ll find in populated zones.
The Salkantay Trek is not only a challenge for adventurers but also a window into the unique diversity of the Andes. Every step reveals amazing plants and animals found only in this corner of the world. We invite you to experience this trail and witness its extraordinary natural wealth. Dare to explore this unparalleled wonder!