Salkantay Trek Distance, Dificult & Altitude

Published: 11 November 2022 | Update: 25 November 2025 | Reads: 15584

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The Salkantay trekking is the most popular alternative hiking route to reach Machu Picchu. Named in honor of the Salkantay Mountain, the route extends through the Vilcabamba Mountain Range, northwest of the city of Cusco. Its location, relatively close to Cusco, makes it accessible by land transport and places it as a strategic starting point for this demanding Andean journey.

This hike is known for its ecological change and its high physical demand. The trail climbs quickly to its highest point, the Salkantay Pass, where extreme alpine conditions are experienced. Later, the path descends sharply toward the warm and humid cloud forest, this climate and altitude variability requires adequate physical preparation and, most importantly, mandatory prior acclimatization in the city of Cusco.

Join us and learn everything about the Salkantay trek, discover the three key factors that define this route: the total Distance that must be covered (approximately 74 km), the physical Difficulty Level of each day, and the maximum altitude that is reached.

Salkantay Trek Distance

Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu passes through stunning landscapes varying from the cloud forest to the high mountains. Along the way you will see the fantastic views of the second-highest mountain in the Cusco, we are talking about the imposing Apu Salkantay ("Savage mountain" from Quechua) standing at 20,574' (6,271 m). This trek toMachu Picchu goes through unfrequented areas and combines culture and tradition with the incredible flora and fauna offered by Peru. You will be in the real Andes and in the perfect conditions to get a sense of life in the area. Now we present you the distances that you will hike during Salkantay Trek :

Day 1: Mollepata to Salkantaypampa: 13 Km (8.08 miles)
Day 2: Salkantaypampa to Collpapampa: 22 Km (13.67 miles)
Day 3: Collpapampa to La Playa: 16 Km (9.94 miles)
Day 4: La Playa to Aguas Calientes: 19 Km (11.81 miles)
Day 5: Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu: 4 Km (2.49 miles)
Total Distance: 74 Km (45.98 miles)

Is the Salkantay trek difficult?

Are you worried about the difficulty of the Salkantay Trek? Travelers in Peru say it is a little bit more difficult than the classic Inca Trail but well worth the effort. The scenery is amazing! Therefore, if you are in good physical health, no special training is needed for this trek. Your guide will give you the most important information during a special briefing a few days before the start of your trek through the highlands of the Andes, and he or she will also tell you the essential things to bring.

Remember! You will reach 4600m on the second day after climbing for the best part of the day. Especially if you are within your first five days at altitude, this may give you headaches and shortness of breath. Don't forget that even people who live in Cusco (at 3300m) still get short of breath.

We calificate Salkantay Trek as a moderate trek that you can do also with your family.Remember Salkantay the sacred snow mountain is the highest peak of the Vilcabamba mountain range, part of the Peruvian Andes.

Salkantay Trek Altitude

Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu is a great trek to the Inca citadel Machu Picchu. Some people choose this trek when the famous Inca Trail in Peruis sold out (which happens quite often). Salkantay Trek is the best alternative trek to Machu Picchu. Here you will see the altitude that we will cross during our trek:

Cusco - Soraypampa:

Starting Elevation “Mollepata” . 9,515 feet (2900 meters)
Campsite Elevation “Soraypampa” – 3850 meters / 12631ft
Considered : Moderate
The area : Andes

Soraypampa – Salkantay Pass - Challway:

Highest Elevation “Salkantay pass” – 4600 meters /15090 ft
Campsite Elevation “Challway” – (3000m/9842f)
Considered : Difficult
The area : Andes, Salkantay Glaciar

Challway – Santa Teresa:

Starting Elevation. “Challway” – (3000m/9842f)
Campsite Elevation “Santa Teresa” – 1811 meters / 7055 ft
Considered : Moderate
The area : Cloud Forest

Santa Teresa - Aguas Calientes:

Walking Distance – 15km / 9 miles
Starting Elevation : “Santa Teresa” – 1811 meters / 7055 ft
Hotel Elevation : “Aguas Calientes” – 2050 meters / 7986 ft
Considered : Moderate
The area : Cloud Forest

Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu – Cusco:

Machupicchu Inca City 7,972' (2,430 m)
Huaynapicchu sacred Mountain 8,924' (2,720 m)

How is the nights and sleep along the trek?

No matter the time of year, the trail cools at night (the altitude is more than 6000 m) until you reach Aguas Calientes. Bring a warm sleeping bag and dress in layers. A high-quality warm sleeping bag is essential. We recommend bringing your best sleeping bag if possible.

If you plan to rent a sleeping bag, consider bringing a silk liner for extra warmth and comfort. A four-season sleeping bag (or -10°C rating) is recommended for the winter months.

During other times of the year, a three-season sleeping bag (or -4°C / -5°C rating) should be sufficient, though this depends on individual tolerance to cold and should only be used as a guideline.

For the trip from Salkantay to Machu Picchu, we provide roll-up mats. However, for added comfort and warmth, thermal-style mattresses can be rented in Cusco. If you're traveling in winter and don't want to invest in a four-season bag, consider using a three-season bag with a liner and wearing additional layers.

Interesting Information:

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