17.6km
Total Distance
1,179m
Elevation Gain

Trail description

A wild alternative route to Machu Picchu, crossing a high pass beneath the icy pyramid of Salkantay. The trek drops from bleak alpine passes into steamy cloud forest and coffee country on the way to Aguas Calientes. Long and remote, and a favourite for those who miss out on the classic Inca Trail permits.

Route Map

Along the trail

  1. 1
    Spring · 5.8km
    springs can run dry
  2. 2
    Shelter · 5.8km
  3. 3
    Viewpoint · 5.8km
  4. 4
    Shelter · 7.9km
  5. 5
    Spring · 8.7km
    Water point
  6. 6
    Shelter · 9.1km
  7. 7
    Chinchikuma · 9.1km
    Viewpoint
  8. 8
    Water point · 14km
Path grade (SAC)
T2
Marked route
Salkantay trail

Explore more

Hiking in Peru

Explore trails, mountains & hikes

All trails in Peru

Browse all routes

Mountains in Peru

Explore peaks and their trails

Difficulty

4/5 · Difficult
  • Experience with long mountain hikes
  • Bring enough water - check sources along the route