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What is Salkantay trek? │¿Qué es Salkantay trek?

Salkantay Trek FAQs: Key Info for Trekkers

SALKANTAY TREK FAQs:

General Information about the Salkantay Trek

What is the Salkantay Trek?

The Salkantay Trek is a multi-day hike through the Peruvian Andes (Cusco), culminating at the majestic archaeological site of Machu Picchu. It is an alternative route to the famous Inca Trail, known for its varied landscapes, including snow-capped mountains, tropical rainforest, glacial lakes, and stunning views of the imposing Salkantay Mountain, the fifth-highest peak in Peru.

is Salkantay trek worth it? │Vale la pena Salkantay trek

This route is worth the journey, all that’s left is for you to see it for yourself.

Why choose the Salkantay Trek over other routes to Machu Picchu?

The Salkantay Trek is an excellent option for those seeking a more challenging and less crowded experience than the traditional Inca Trail, with fewer restrictions on permits and dates. Additionally, the route is known for its scenic beauty, passing through remote areas where you can enjoy nature in its purest form.

How long is the Salkantay Trek?

The Salkantay Trek typically lasts 5 days, although there are also 4 and 7-day versions, depending on the chosen itinerary. During these days, travelers cover a distance of approximately 70 kilometers, with daily hikes ranging from 5 to 7 hours. The final stage of the trek includes a visit to Machu Picchu, which is the highlight of the adventure.

How hard is Salkantay trek?

The Salkantay Trek is considered moderate to high difficulty due to the altitude, the long distances covered each day, and the varied terrain. Participants should be in good physical condition and accustomed to walking on rough terrain. The altitude can be an additional challenge, so it is recommended to acclimatize in Cusco before starting the hike.

Do I need previous trekking experience to do the Salkantay Trek?

While it’s not necessary to be an expert trekker, it is advisable to have some previous experience with long hikes and be in good physical condition. The Salkantay Trek is not a technical hike, but the rough terrain, altitude, and long distances can be challenging for those who are not used to it. Good physical and mental preparation is key to fully enjoying this adventure.

Technical Aspects of the Salkantay Trek

What is the maximum altitude during the trek?

The highest altitude you will experience on the route is at the Salkantay Pass, which stands at 4,630 meters / 15,190 feet, a point you will reach on your second day of hiking.

Are you worried about the altitude? We provide information on how to prevent altitude sickness on the Salkantay Trek. We recommend acclimatizing in Cusco before starting the hike.

Frequently Asked Questions: Maximum altitude on the Salkantay trek: Salkantay Pass.

Don’t forget to acclimatize! You’ll see that altitude won’t be an issue.

Do I need a guide for the Salkantay Trek?

Having a tour guide is highly recommended, especially if you are not familiar with the area. They will help you choose the best route, avoid getting lost, and provide assistance throughout the trek.

Additionally, they will provide relevant and interesting information about the places you visit, enriching your experience and giving your journey greater significance.

Can I do the Salkantay Trek if I have a physical limitation?

Your well-being and that of your companions are of utmost importance. If you have physical limitations that prevent you from walking or that may cause you harm due to fatigue, we recommend not doing the Salkantay Trek. There are other activities better suited to your physical capabilities that will allow you to fully enjoy your experience.

Requirements and Preparation for the Salkantay Trek

What are the age requirements for participating in the Salkantay Trek?

While there is no specific regulation setting a minimum age for the Salkantay Trek, it is important to consider that the route presents a certain level of difficulty.

Therefore, it is recommended that travelers be at least 12 years old and in good health and physical condition to face the challenge.

How do I book the Salkantay Trek?

Booking is easy, so don’t worry about that. The most important thing is to take the time to find the right agency that fits your needs and expectations.

Do I need to book in advance?

Absolutely! You need to book at least 2 months in advance. Why? One of the main reasons is Machu Picchu, which is one of the final points and the main attraction of the Salkantay Trek. Entrance tickets to Machu Picchu are limited, and demand is very high.

Additionally, if you book through a travel agency, making the reservation in advance will give them the necessary time to prepare all the logistics for your trip.

Can I change the start date of the Salkantay Trek after booking?

It is unlikely or impossible to change the start date. Why? This is because certain permits and tickets are required, which do not offer flexibility to change the date, such as the Machu Picchu entrance ticket.

So, make sure to plan your travel date well and stick to the one you’ve set.

Travelers from Inkayni Peru Tours on the Salkantay trek│Salkantay trek FAQs

Plan your travel date well. Remember that tickets cannot be postponed!

Can I transfer my Salkantay Trek booking to someone else?

Once you have booked with a travel agency or acquired the permits and tickets on your own, these are non-transferable. They can only be used by the person to whom they were issued.

Why? This measure has been established for security reasons to prevent the resale of permits and tickets by unauthorized third parties.

Equipment for the Salkantay Trek

Do I need to bring my own camping gear?

Keep in mind that if you are traveling without a travel agency, it is essential to bring everything you need for camping, including food to recharge your energy.

However, carrying all the gear can be quite a hassle. Therefore, we recommend hiring a travel agency that provides the necessary logistics and avoids any setbacks.

What kind of footwear is recommended for trekking?

Taking care of your feet is very important. How do you do that? Wearing good footwear, like trekking shoes, will be essential. This type of footwear provides the support and protection you need for walking on uneven terrain.

Trekking shoes for Salkantay trek

Whatever trekking route you take, make sure to wear the right footwear.

How much weight can I carry in my backpack during the trek?

While there is no set limit or specific rules for luggage, it’s essential to bring only what is necessary to avoid turning your backpack into a burden during your trip.

As travelers, our goal is to fully enjoy every experience, and a heavy load can make it much more difficult.

Can I hire a muleteer to carry my gear?

Yes, you can, but keep in mind that this service can only be offered by a travel agency as part of their travel package.

Can I find a muleteer along the route? You won’t find any offering this service.

How much luggage can a muleteer carry?

Muleteers typically carry 7 kg of luggage per person. Can I carry more? No, for the safety of the staff, exceeding this limit is not allowed.

However, if you need to carry more luggage, you can hire an additional muleteer for an extra cost.

Frequently Asked Questions: Travelers arriving at the Machu Picchu citadel.

Carry comfortable and adequate luggage for this trekking route.

Where can I store luggage that I don’t need to take on the trek?

As I mentioned earlier, “only bring what you need“, it’s likely you’ll have extra luggage.

You can leave it at the hotel where you are staying, as most of these establishments offer this service for free and provide the security that you won’t lose your luggage.

If leaving it at the hotel is not possible, you could talk to your travel agency, who can also help you with luggage storage.

Services Available During the Salkantay Trek

Are there bathrooms available along the Salkantay Trek?

Yes, there are, but keep in mind that these squat toilets with cold water are often unhygienic and difficult to access.

If you follow the route or have hired a travel agency, you will reach the town of Machu Picchu (Aguas Calientes), where you will find accommodations and all the comforts you need.

Is there phone signal or internet connection during the Salkantay Trek?

During the route, you won’t have access to these services due to the limited or non-existent coverage in remote areas.

However, why do you need the internet? I assure you that you won’t miss it, as this trekking route will allow you to completely disconnect from the everyday thanks to the stunning scenic beauty you will encounter along the way.

Tourist looking for phone signal on the Salkantay trek route.

In remote locations, phone signal is often scarce or non-existent.

Can I buy food and water during the Salkantay Trek?

Yes, you can! At the camping points, you can buy snacks and water, offered by local residents.

Keep in mind that these stalls have a limited and basic supply, so I suggest buying any special food you may want in the city of Cusco in advance.

Can I bring my camera or phone on the Salkantay Trek to take photos?

If you have the opportunity to do the Salkantay Trek, don’t miss it. You will find a journey with landscapes, flora, and fauna so impressive that you’ll want to capture and share them with your friends and family on social media.

To capture these unique moments, I recommend bringing an action camera like the GoPro. They are small, lightweight, easy to carry, and very versatile, making them the ideal companion for this type of trip.

Can I charge my devices during the Salkantay Trek?

You could do so at the camping points, but you should know that you won’t be the only traveler needing to charge your electronic devices, and they may be crowded when you arrive.

For this reason, it’s important to bring your own power bank; it will be very helpful for recharging your devices anywhere and anytime during the Salkantay Trek.

Salkantay Trek is a challenging yet rewarding journey through the Andes, culminating in the breathtaking site of Machu Picchu. With its stunning landscapes and less crowded paths, it’s a great alternative to the Inca Trail. Proper preparation and understanding of the trek’s demands are key to fully enjoying this adventure. Whether you’re concerned about altitude, packing, or booking, having the right information ensures a safe and unforgettable experience.

Written by: AdminGustavo

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