
We know that the trekking to Salkantay is an ancient and adventurous alternative path to the Inca Trail, has spectacular views and with various ecological floors; we will walk between lagoons, impressive snowfalls like Salkantay and Humantay, crossing rivers and subtropical areas of abundant flora and fauna. This road is an excellent option for those who want to get out of the routine and venture in a fun, friendly and especially group life, finishing with the visit of the beautiful Inca citadel of Machu Picchu.
This route covers the southern part of the Vilcabamba mountain, showing beautiful landscapes that vary from andes to the jungle, doing this hike will connect us even more with nature since we observe a lot of flora and fauna, the sense of having a sustainable environment gives us a feeling of satisfaction. The trekking to Salkantay covers 70 kilometers of mountains and beautiful landscapes and spectacular panoramic views of the mountains, especially from the Salkantay pass, we can also observe a geothermal lagoon called Humantay, the imposing snowy Salkantay, the hot springs of Cocalmayo and finally we arrive at the Inca citadel of Machu Picchu
This trekking passes under the magnificent snow of Salkantay (6,710 over the sea level), one of the highest and most impressive in the Peruvian Andes.
Some points that makes attractive the Salkantay trekking
- You take a natural walk almost to Aguas Calientes.
- Geographically, the Salkantay trek is closer to the traditional Inca Trail.
- Because it is an alternate walk we find small groups of people.
- You have A true wilderness and adventure camping
- You need a cheaper budget, it is not expensive.
The best season of the year for trekking the Salkantay
The Cusco region has a warm weather during the day and very cold at night in addition to two types of marked climates: Rainy season and dry season, so the months from May to October are considered the best dates to do this excursion since the rains have stopped and the road is firm; This route can be done all year but consider especil clothes for rain season especially February.
Recommended things to wear during trekking
- backpack (medium size): It is better to carry only what is necessary for these days of hiking as we will have to carry our personal things for every day and we include 5 kilos to be carry by horses.
- Clothing suitable for trekking: You will walk at more than 3,500 meters above the sea with very hot during the day and very cold at night so clothes that are warm during the night and are cool during the day will be recommended. (good trekking shoes and replacement socks)
- To store clothes, bring 3 bags to keep clean clothes separate from dirty ones.
- Sleeping bag of at least 5 ° to sleep warm
- Accessories: sunglasses, sunscreen, hat, flashlight, brush, soap, toothpaste, toilet paper, towel, batteries for your camera, among others.
- Bring the medicines you consider necessary for headache or altitude sickness, as well as bandages for wounds or blisters.
Acclimatization
To do this trekking to Salkantay we recommend to have at least a couple of days of acclimatization in high altitude cities (more than 3000 meters above sea level), in this case in the imperial city of Cusco, in order that during the trek you do not have problems with the bad high and can make the walk without major problems, it is recommended to take infusions of “muña” and “the sacred coca leafs”. Drink plenty of fluids, avoid fruits such as apples and beans, the first few days rest as much as possible and keep your body warm.
How to avoid altitude sickness?
- It is important to acclimatize before do the trekking to Salkantay, arriving in the imperial city of Cusco 2 or 3 days in advance.
- Soroche or altitude sickness pills also help and are used by tourists. ( for example SOROJCHI PILLS )
- You have to drink plenty of water to hydrate the body, especially coca tea
- It is important to eat light, that is, foods that are easy to digest, such as soups, vegetables and carbohydrates that are not fried.
- Sleep as much as you can and you will feel much better.
- Keep your body warm and don’t forget to eat before you feel hungry, drink before you feel thirsty, warm up before feeling cold and rest before feeling exhausted.
- Breathe! It is logical, but the altitude limits the arrival of oxygen to the brain, which causes the terrible headaches, so the recommendation is always to breathe hard, hold the air for 4 or 6 seconds and then exhale, that will help to oxygenate the brain , you will feel much better.
Difficulty of the trekking
Although the difficulty of this Trek is a little higher than the original Inca Trail, it is not a high level Trek, it is longer (5 days instead of 4), higher, wilder, but that is where we find The magig atraction of this place. The trekking to Salkantay, was recently named by the National Geographic Adventure Travel magazine among the best 25 excursions in the world.
Physical training
The preparation for the Trekking to Salkantay, begins taking into consideration the physical condition that one has, that is why specialists consider having an early preparation before making this excursion, since in that way the muscles are strengthened and they are generating resistance when doing this trekking to Salkantay.
One of the most famous treks
In the world there are several places, which receive thousands of visitors a year for their relevance compared to others; In the same way it happens in Cusco – Peru, the most famous walks are Salkantay trek, Inca Trail, Choquequirao, Inca Jungle, Ausangate, etc. All these walks have something in common, and it is the combination of spectacular landscapes with climatic variations depending on the area where you are.
To have a more beautiful experience, do not forget to contact viva peru tours professionals as during this trip you will travel with experienced, trained and professional guides to assist you in any situation. Ask all the questions you should and want to ask to be prepared and have the best experience in Salkantay trekking. A good experience is a pleasant memory for life.