What Travelers Really Say and What to Expect Before You Go
There are routes you hike… and routes you feel. The Salkantay Trek belongs to the latter category.
If you’re reading reviews to decide if it’s worth it, you’re not just looking for facts. You’re looking for certainty. You want to know if the effort, the cold, the altitude, and the kilometers truly transform into something unforgettable.
Here you’ll find real opinions summarized, common patterns in international reviews, and what you should know before booking, so you don’t have to look elsewhere.
🏔️ What is the Salkantay Trek and why does it generate such intense opinions?
The Salkantay is an alternative route to Machu Picchu that crosses:
- Andean glaciers
- High-altitude valleys
- Cloud forests
- Rainforest
In just a few days, you go from lunar landscapes to lush vegetation.
It’s not just a trail.
It’s a constant transition.
And that explains why the reviews are often so passionate.
🗣️ What Travelers Say Most Often in Their Reviews
🌄 1. “The landscapes are more spectacular than I imagined”
Many travelers compare the Salkantay Trek to the Inca Trail and agree on one thing:
The scenery is more dramatic.
The pass at 4,650 meters in front of the snow-capped Salkantay Mountain is often described as:
- “Imposing”
- “Silent”
- “Breathtaking”
It’s the moment when the air is thin… and emotions run high.
🥵 2. “The second day is tough… but it’s worth every step”
Crossing the Salkantay Pass is the most physically demanding point.
Common reviews:
- “It was the hardest day of the trip”
- “I thought about giving up”
- “I’ll never forget that view”
Effort and reward are inextricably linked.
🌿 3. “The transition to the jungle is magical”
After the extreme cold, the landscape changes.
The humidity, the intense green, the sound of insects.
Many travelers highlight this contrast as the most striking element of the trek.
📊 Key Facts about the Salkantay Trek
| Factor | Information |
|---|---|
| Duration | 4–5 days |
| Maximum Altitude | 4,650 m |
| Total Distance | ~70 km |
| Average Price | USD 550–900 |
| Difficulty | Moderate–High |
| Best Time to Go | May–September |
⚠️ Recurring Criticisms in Reviews
Not all opinions are romantic.
🥶 1. Intense cold on the first night
Many travelers underestimate the sub-zero temperatures.
😵 2. Unexpected altitude sickness
Those who don’t acclimatize properly in Cusco often mention this as a major mistake.
⛺ 3. Differences Between Agencies
The quality of the campsite and food can vary significantly.
Common conclusion:
“Choose your agency wisely.”
🧭 Opinions by Traveler Type
🏔️ Mountain Trekking Enthusiasts
They rate it as one of the best routes in South America.
💰 Independent Backpackers
They appreciate the lower cost compared to the Inca Trail, although they acknowledge the greater physical effort.
👨👩👧 Travelers over 50
Many complete the trek successfully, but emphasize:
“Acclimatization is everything.”
💰 Transactional Value: Does the Price Reflect the Experience?
💵 Average Price
Standard Service: USD 550 – 900
Premium Service (Domes): USD 900 – 1,500
✅ Generally Includes
- Transportation from Cusco
- Certified Guide
- Camps
- Mules for carrying gear
- All meals
- Entrance to Machu Picchu
- Return train
❌ Does Not Include
- Travel insurance
- Sleeping bag (if not specified)
- Tips
- Huayna Picchu
The most positive reviews often mention:
- Excellent guide leadership
- Surprisingly good food
- Efficient organization
🌦️ Best Time to Go
☀️ Dry Season:
- More enthusiastic reviews
- Better photos
- More travelers
🌧️ Rainy Season:
More intimate experience
More mud
Greater physical challenge
🎒 Pro-Tips Inspired by Reviews Real Tips
🏔️ 1. Acclimatize for at least 2–3 days
This is the most repeated advice.
🧥 2. Don’t underestimate the cold
Wear appropriate thermal clothing.
💧 3. Drink water even if you’re not thirsty
Altitude dehydrates you without warning.
🐢 4. Maintain your own pace
Reviews agree:
It’s not a race.
🤔 So… Is it worth it according to the reviews?
Yes.
But it’s not a walk in the park.
The most honest reviews agree on one thing:
- “The Salkantay isn’t the easiest, but it is the most memorable.”
- The effort is part of the charm.
🌄 Poetic Comparison with the Inca Trail
The Inca Trail is history.
The Salkantay is wild nature.
One speaks to you of the past.
The other confronts you with the mountain.
Both reach Machu Picchu.
But the inner journey is different.
🎯 Final Conclusion
Reviews of the Salkantay Trek are overwhelmingly positive and deeply emotional.
It’s not just a hike.
It’s an experience of contrast, endurance, and beauty.
If you’re looking for absolute comfort, this might not be the route for you.
If you’re looking for intensity, stunning scenery, and transformation, you’ll hardly regret it.
