Inca Trail vs Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu

We’ve had Machu Picchu on our minds for a while now – you know, that mysterious city in the clouds? That famous historic site that welcomes over a million visitors each year? If you’re trying to decide whether you should hike the Inca Trail or the Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu, we’ve got the the answers for you.

So, let’s start with the basics.

The renowned Inca Trail has several trail lengths and variations for you to choose from, however the most popular route would be the classic four day trek which allows you to bask in nature while passing impressive ruins such as the Runkurakay. Over the course of four days, you will cover a distance of 45 kilometres, trekking between six to nine hours a day. On the last day, you can rest easy, as the fourth day will feature just a short, two hour hike before reaching the impressive site of Machu Picchu.

An alternative option for you to make your way up to Machu Picchu is via the Salkantay Trek, covering a distance of approximately 74 kilometres – almost 30 kilometres more than the Inca Trail. In other words, this trek is not for the faint hearted. Beginning at the foothills of Marcoccasa and ending at the train station in Hidroelectrica, this is a much more strenuous climb thanks to the rougher terrain and steep ascents and descents.

Naturally, each trail offers its own unique challenges and rewards for anyone looking to conquer the respective routes. For the Inca Trail, day two will prove to be the most challenging element as you reach Dead Woman’s Pass which reaches a height of 4,215 metres (13,828 feet). As the highest point in the trail, this is by far the most grueling part to reach. From bitter winds to torrential rain, at this height you’ll be exposed to all the elements but at the same time, you’ll be ecstatic with accomplishment.

If you’re a creature that prefers your own company and alone time, consider the Salkantay Trek over the Inca Trail. The latter is trekked so frequently that the Peruvian Government has limited the number of permits granted per day (a maximum of 500 per day) and the trail is closed every year in February to complete necessary conversation and maintenance work.

On the Salkantay Trek, the number of hikers that you will cross paths with during your hike will be significantly lower as compared to the Inca Trail. Another notable feature of the Salkantay Trek is the impressive scenery and great chance of spotting deer, chinchillas and bears thanks to the lower foot traffic. The only downside of this journey is that you’ll miss passing the Inca Trail’s Inti Punku Sun Gate, which tends to be a favourite amongst travellers.

Before you start planning when to visit Peru, keep in mind that Machu Picchu and the Inca Trail are busiest in July and August. If you’re looking to strike the balance between great weather and fewer visitors, consider visiting in April or October for the best experience and to avoid trail congestion. On the other hand, the Salkantay Trek can be hiked all year-round.

Now that you’re feeling inspired and ready to hike, will the Inca Trail or the Salkantay Trek be calling your name for your next adventure?

Special thanks to our friends at World Expeditions who contributed the stunning footage that made this video possible. Check out their action-packed adventures to exhilarating destinations around the world on TourRadar.

🤟 Find your tour through Peru:
https://www.tourradar.com/d/Peru?utm_source=Youtube&utm_medium=social&utm_campaign=Inca+Trail+vs+Salkantay+Trek+to+Machu+Picchu+ST1809-Peru&utm_content=YT+Description

ℹ️ Learn more about Peru:
https://www.tourradar.com/travel-guide/Peru?utm_source=Youtube&utm_medium=social&utm_campaign=Inca+Trail+vs+Salkantay+Trek+to+Machu+Picchu+ST1809-Peru&utm_content=YT+Description

🎬 Watch another video: "Why You Should Travel to Peru by TourRadar":
https://youtu.be/4lRhbH96xGU

📚 Visit us on Days to Come: "How to Get Inca Trail Permits in 2019":
https://www.tourradar.com/days-to-come/inca-trail-permits-2019/?utm_source=Youtube&utm_medium=social&utm_campaign=Inca+Trail+vs+Salkantay+Trek+to+Machu+Picchu+ST1809-Peru&utm_content=YT+Description

✌️ Subscribe for more travel tips & inspiration:
https://www.youtube.com/user/tourradar?sub_confirmation=1

🌍 #gotouring with TourRadar:
https://www.tourradar.com
-----------------------------------------------
👫 Let’s get social! Follow us on:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TourRadar/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/TourRadar
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tourradar/
Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/tourradar/

Narration by International Voice Over Artist: Greg Marston: https://bit.ly/2R9ZCxx

Видео Inca Trail vs Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu канала TourRadar