Hiking to Machu Picchu: Which is better Salkantay or Inca Trail?

Published: 31 December 2022 | Update: 20 January 2026 | Reads: 3976

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Before starting your trip to the Inca citadel, first you must know the 2 routes taken to reach this wonder, each with its own attractions. So, in this travel blog, we will discover a bit more about the Classic Inca Trail and the Salkantay trek.

For its part, the first journey known initially as the Inca Trail, is a route that starts from the Sacred Valley of the Incas and has Machu Picchu as its final destination through ancient stone paths. On the other hand, the Salkantay trek is the main alternative to the Traditional Inca Trail and consists of reaching the citadel through snowy mountains, abundant vegetation, wildlife, lagoons, and a breathtaking high Andean landscape.

So, if you are determined to reach Machu Picchu by walking, but doubt your choice: The famous Classic Inca Trail or the Salkantay Snowy Route? Both options offer unforgettable experiences, each with its own essence and challenges. Join us to discover the key differences between the Inca Trail and the Salkantay trek so you can choose the adventure that will mark your life.

Differences between the Salkantay Trek vs. Inca Trail

Choosing between these two routes involves deciding between two contrasting geographies. The 4 day Inca Trail stretches for 42 kilometers from its start at kilometer 82, in the Piscacucho sector. Its greatest technical challenge is the Warmiwañusca pass, located at 4,215 meters in altitude. Throughout the journey, hikers face varied terrains: from firm dirt paths and steep slopes to the original ancient stone steps that can be demanding on the joints.

On the other hand, the Salkantay trek offers a longer length, approximately 46 kilometers, which are generally covered in five days. This adventure starts in the Soraypampa sector, south of Machu Picchu. The critical point of this route is the Salkantay mountain pass, which reaches almost 4,600 meters in height, significantly exceeding the altitude of the Inca Trail. Unlike the paved paths, the Salkantay Snowy Route goes through more rustic and natural paths, crossing extensive Andean plains and trails surrounded by cloudy landscapes.

Why choose each one?

Inca Trail: It is the historical option, where every step includes ancient Inca paths and constructions that show the archaeological heritage; also, the infrastructure of the campsites is highly regulated by the Peruvian state.
Salkantay Trek: It is the scenic alternative, since not having a quota limit as strict as the Inca Trail allows for more flexible planning. Additionally, the visual transition from glaciers to the high jungle is one of the most impressive natural phenomena you will see on your vacation.

Suggestion: If you are worried about altitude sickness, spend at least two days before in the city of Cusco to acclimate before facing the 4,630 meters of Salkantay.

Landscape differences: The 2 ways to see the Andes

The experience on both routes will offer you views of the Andean geography from two fascinating perspectives.

1. The Inca Trail

In the four days of the Inca Trail, you will first get to know the mountains of the lower range, with eucalyptus forests and plants from the subtropical region. The sun will be a faithful companion; therefore, do not forget to bring a hat and sunglasses in your backpack. During the second day, the climb will show us a wild but charming landscape, with a mist that dominates the peaks and the typical cold of the Warmiwañusca pass, where the thin vegetation paints the view in brown tones.

The third day is marked by a drastic change: the return of the vast flora of the jungle brow and the overwhelming heat as you go deeper into the valley. Finally, on the fourth day, you will wake up in the Wiñaywayna ruins to make the grand entrance to Machu Picchu through the famous Inti Punku or "Sun Gate," seeing the citadel reveal itself before your eyes with the dawn light.

2. The Salkantay Trek

The Salkantay trek offers us views of the most untamed nature. Being a less rigid option for its campsites, the path feels more free. The first day is dominated by landscapes of the Peruvian highlands and ends with the opportunity to visit the Humantay lagoon and its turquoise waters.

The second day is the most epic: you will climb to the Salkantay pass, where, depending on the season this 2026, you can enjoy a white landscape next to the great sacred snowy peak. During the third and fourth day, the descent reveals streams, waterfalls, and lush fruit tree and coffee plantations. Finally, you will reach the town of Aguas Calientes to rest and take the guided tour of the citadel on the fifth day.

Common points

No matter which route you choose, the charm of Andean nature will be present:

Wildlife: Sightings of birds like the caracara or, with luck, the spectacled bear.
Flora: From the mosses of the high mountains to the orchids of the jungle.
Atmosphere: The whisper of the eucalyptus forests, the rocky landscapes, and the imposing blue sky of the Andes.

Note: For this 2026, a greater presence of wildlife has been reported on the Salkantay Snowy Route due to conservation initiatives in the Mollepata area. Keep your camera ready!

Difference of the attractions on the route: History vs. Nature

Get ready to discover the most exclusive archaeological ruins on the Classic Inca Trail! Since it was the official communication route for the Inca elite, this route holds sites that cannot be visited in any other way. During the hike, we will explore fascinating sites like Wayllabamba, Llactapata, Runkurakay, Phuyupatamarca, and Wiñaywayna. Our guides will give you a deep explanation about the engineering and the spiritual purpose of these sites, allowing you to travel back in time with every step.

On the other hand, the appeal of the Salkantay trek focuses mainly on the force of nature. Here, the main character is not the carved stone, but the wild geography. The great variety of ecosystems and the feeling of being in the middle of wildlife and towering glaciers is one of the best experiences you can enjoy in Peru. It is the ideal route for those looking for the silence of the mountain and the majesty of the Salkantay Route.

Differences in the arrival at Machu Picchu

Both routes have the Inca citadel as the final goal, but the way to "conquer" it varies considerably:

On the Inca Trail: After walking the 42 kilometers of the historical route, on the fourth day you will live the most exciting moment: the arrival at Inti Punku or Sun Gate. From this point, you will enter the citadel directly on foot, having the first panoramic view of Machu Picchu just as the Incas saw it when arriving from Cusco.
On the Salkantay trek: The fourth day of trekking ends in the town of Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu Town), where you will spend the night in a hotel. This allows you to enjoy a hot shower and a comfortable bed before the big day. On the fifth day, you will go up by bus or walking to the main entrance to do your guided visit to the citadel.

Interesting information:

Flora: During the Inca trailyou will enjoy the sight of more than 300 species of orchids, shrubs, ichu, straw and typical trees from the Inca period. On the other hand, during your trip in Salkantay Trek you will observe straw or ichu, crops ; Then, a characteristic flora of the jungle eyebrow, coffee, banana, avocado, pineapple and coca leaf crops will appear.
Fauna: Inca Trail is a privileged place of endemic species of birds, butterflies, insects. There are also species, such as the spectacled bears, vizcachas, lizards, etc. Salkantay Trek will show us some south american camelids, llamas and guanacos, mainly skunks, vizcachas, in the lakes diversity of aquatic birds, butterflies and fauna of the jungle.
Weather: Inca Trailis characterized by its Semi-tropical, warm and humid days, cold nights, rains (November - April). Minimum temperature :6º C - 11º C (June), Maximum temperature: 20º C - 26ºC (June). Salkantayshow us rainy season from November to April, Minimum temperature: between 5º C - 11º C (June) at Abra Salkantay, Maximum temperature: between 20º C - 26º C (June) at Sahuayaco Beach.

Advantages and disadvantages of Inca Trail:

Advantages:

Know several archaeological centers, along the way.
Walk through different ecological floors.
Enjoy a varied range of typical flora and fauna of the jungle.
Enjoy different climates.
Know one of the most visited tourist attractions in Peru.
Inca Trail Machu Picchu guarantees the proper execution of your walk.
It will be a positive and unforgettable experience.

Disadvantages:

Admission is limited, only 500 people per day
In high season (June - October), tickets are sold out

Advantages and disadvantages of Salkantay Trek:

Advantages:

Walk through different ecological floors.
Walk accompanied by the extension of the Eastern Andean Mountain range.
You can be at the foot of one of the highest snow-capped mountains of Cusco, the Salkantay.
It allows you to walk towards Machu Picchu, by a less congested route.
You are guaranteed an adequate organization of your trip.
You will have an unforgettable experience.

Disadvantages:

You need to acclimatize in the City of Cusco, for one or two days before starting the walk.
You can be affected by soroche or altitude sickness.

Conclusion:

In case you want to know in depth the history of the ancient Incas or want a challenge for your physique, the Inca Trail tours are the best option. The Salkantay Trek tours are recommended for nature lovers and anyone who wants to get out of the routine. Whatever option you choose, SALKANTAY TREK MACHU is ready to make your trip an unforgettable experience. We have years of experience making the vacation of passengers from all over the world a reality. Contact us to receive a personalized quote and we invite you to see the testimonials of travelers like you.

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