Is Going It On Your Own Worth It? Costs, Risks, and Real Advice
Are you thinking about doing the Salkantay Trek without a guide to save money or have a more independent experience? It’s an important decision. In this 2026 guide, you’ll discover real costs, physical difficulty, logistics, altitude risks, and which option is best suited to your experience, so you can choose safely and without improvising on the mountain.
🌎 What is the Salkantay Trek, and is it mandatory to go with a guide?
The Salkantay Trek is the most popular alternative route to Machu Picchu, especially for those who didn’t get a spot on the Inca Trail.
Unlike the Inca Trail:
- ✅ Hiring a guide is not mandatory.
- ✅ You can do it independently.
- ✅ You can also do it with an organized tour.
But just because it’s possible doesn’t mean it’s as easy.
🧭 Doing the Salkantay Trek Independently
📍 How does it really work?
If you decide to do it without a guide, you must arrange the following on your own:
- Transportation from Cusco to Soraypampa
- Campsite or lodging reservations
- Daily meals
- Complete camping equipment
- Entrance to Machu Picchu
- Return train or bus ticket
In addition, you will need to carry your own gear for 4–5 days.
🎒 What equipment do you need?
- Windproof tent
- Sleeping bag (-10°C recommended)
- Sleeping mat
- Portable stove
- Food for several days
- Water filtration system
- Waterproof boots
- Layered technical clothing
Average backpack weight:
12–18 kg
💪 Physical level required for independent trekking
Higher than with an organized tour because:
- You carry more weight
- There is no logistical support
- You don’t have a guide to regulate your pace
- You must manage unexpected weather conditions
Requires prior experience in independent mountain trekking.
💰 Actual costs for independent trekking
| Item | Estimated cost |
|---|---|
| Local transport | USD 20–40 |
| Camping/lodging | USD 10–30 por noche |
| Food | USD 15–25 diarios |
| Machu Picchu entrance fee | USD 45–60 |
| Return train | USD 60–120 |
| Approximate total | USD 250–400 |
💡 Does not include equipment rental or purchase.
🏕️ Salkantay Trek with an Organized Tour
📍 How does it work?
The agency takes care of:
- Full transportation
- Certified guide
- Professional cook
- Mules for carrying equipment
- Set-up campsites
- Entrance fees and train tickets
You only need to carry a light backpack (5–7 kg).
💵 Average Price
- Standard Group: USD 550 – 900
- Premium (Domes): USD 900 – 1,500
- Private: from USD 1,800
🎯 Clear Advantages
✔ Safety and altitude monitoring
✔ Stress-free logistics
✔ Hot meals prepared
✔ Equipment transported by mules
✔ Controlled pace
📊 Complete Comparison
| Factor | 🧭 Independent | 🏕️ Organized Tour |
|---|---|---|
| Base Price | USD 250–400 | USD 550–900 |
| Backpack Weight | 12–18 kg | 5–7 kg |
| Physical Difficulty | High | Moderate |
| Logistics | Self-Managed | Included |
| Safety | Individual | Professional Support |
| Cultural Experience | Limited | Explanatory Guide |
| Ideal for | Experienced Trekkers | Most Travelers |
🏔️ Real Risks of Salkantay
Altitude Maximum altitude: 4,650 m (15,000 ft)
Main risks:
- Altitude sickness
- Hypothermia
- Sudden thunderstorms
- Dehydration
- Injuries during descent
With an organized tour:
- The guide monitors symptoms
- Adjusts pace
- Manages emergencies
Independently:
- You are fully responsible.
🌦️ Best time to go independently:
Recommended only during the dry season (May–September).
During the rainy season:
⚠️ Slippery trails
⚠️ Increased logistical risk
⚠️ Unpredictable weather
💰 Do you really save money?
Going independently seems cheaper, but consider:
- Purchase or rental of equipment
- Risk of logistical errors
- Stress in planning
- Potential unforeseen costs
For many international travelers, the savings do not compensate for the added difficulty.
🎒 Advanced Pro-Tips for Foreigners
🏔️ 1. Mandatory Acclimatization
Spend at least 2–3 days in Cusco before starting your trek.
🧥 2. Complete Layering System
- Thermal Base Layer
- Fleece
- Waterproof Jacket
- Gloves and Hat
Temperatures can drop to -5°C at the high pass.
💧 3. Strategic Hydration
Bring electrolytes.
🗺️ 4. If You’re Traveling Independently
- Download Offline Maps
- Bring a Power Bank
- Inform Family Members of your route
🛡️ 5. Travel Insurance
Essential if you don’t have agency support.
🧠 Who Should Travel Independently?
✔ Experienced trekker
✔ Travelers with their own equipment
✔ People comfortable managing complex logistics
✔ Very tight budget
🎯 Who should choose an organized tour?
✔ First-time high-altitude trekker
✔ Foreign travelers with no Andean experience
✔ People who prioritize safety
✔ Those who want a guided cultural experience
The Salkantay Trek without a guide is possible, but it requires:
More preparation
More physical effort
Greater responsibility
For most international tourists, an organized tour offers a better balance between cost, safety, and comfort.
It’s not just about saving money, but about maximizing the experience.
