One crucial point to remember is that along the route, the Salkantay trek altitude varies drastically, leading to constant changes in the weather, thermal sense and even habitats.
Therefore, it’s important to be well-prepared. In the sections “Physical Preparation for the Salkantay Trek” and “What to Bring on the Salkantay Trek,” we have searched for valuable information to help you overcome the effects of altitude sickness and enjoy this unique journey while each section shows something new due to its different altitudes.
You might wonder, what is the highest altitude along the Salkantay trek?
The trekking route of the Salkantay trek, both in its 4-day and 5-day itineraries, reaches its highest point at the Salkantay Pass at 4,630 m / 15,190 ft. This considerable altitude demands good physical training, but the reward is unparalleled: from the Salkantay Pass, you get the most spectacular views of towering mountains, including an incredible panoramic view of the Salkantay snow-capped mountain, which is one of the highest peaks in Peru and the highest along the Vilcabamba mountain range.
In the 7-day version, which combines the Inca Trail, the Salkantay trek reaches its highest altitude at Inca Chiriaska at 5,200 m / 17,060 ft ASL. Considering these altitudes will give you a more accurate perspective of what to expect on the route.
The Salkantay pass is the highest altitude of the hike.
The Salkantay Rrek Altitudes in its Different Versions
Now that you know the highest altitude in the area, let me show you the different altitudes you will experience during the itineraries of the Salkantay trek:
- Salkantay Trek 4 Days: Note that this is the quickest itinerary. If you have just 4 days available, this might suit better to your plans. The altitude along the hiking route ranges between 2,040 m / 6,725 ft ASL at its lowest point and 4,630 m / 15,190 ft ASL at its highest point.
- Salkantay Trek 5 Days: This itinerary adds a stop to the Humantay Lake on the first day. The highest altitude hikers reach is just the same as in the “Salkantay trek to Machu Picchu in 4 Days.” Both routes are almost the same, the 5-day hike is more challenging, so that the choice will depend on your preferences and tastes.
- Salkantay Trek & Inca Trail 7 Days: For those who want more than just a simple and sometimes crowded trek or wish to explore as much as possible, the Salkantay and Inca Trail to Machu Picchu is for you. This extended route goes through dreamed landscapes ranging from 2,040 m / 6,692 ft ASL to its highest point of 5,200 m / 17,060 ft ASL, allowing you to overcome more difficult challenges than the previous itineraries.
As you can see, the Salkantay trek to Machu Picchu journey does not stay at a single altitude but varies considerably, offering unique opportunities to experience a wide variety of flora, fauna, and landscapes that I’m sure you’ll love. Don’t forget to follow my recommendations on physical preparation and packing, which I’m sure you will need.
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