Any trip to Machu Picchu is an unforgettable one. The 15th-century Inca citadel is a popular tourist destination for good reason. Sitting on an Andes mountain range in the Eastern Cordillera of southern Peru, the views are incredible.
Though most travelers take the train or other public transport to get to these Incan ruins, there are some exhilarating alternatives. The Salkantay Trek is among the most popular ways to reach Machu Picchu by foot, as it is truly the trip of a lifetime, one that you will always remember.
Walking the long trail allows you to take in the mystical beauty of the Andes, and the rewarding feeling as you reach your destination is unparalleled.
The trek
The Salkantay Trek can be hiked in either four or five days, depending on how easy you want to take it. The five-day version of the trip includes a stop at the hot springs in Santa Teresa, and I recommend making that stop if you can! The hot springs will be very nice after a few days of walking the Andes.
Although the walks are long on this trek, with some days hitting up to ten hours of hiking, you will be powered by pure adrenaline. The spectacular views are abundant as you trek along rivers and through the valleys between towering mountains.
The cost
How much it costs to make this long hike depends almost entirely on you! You can pack a tent and camp for as little as $200 for the entire trek, or you can opt to stay in luxury lodges with spas and wifi for closer to $3,000 per person.
While hot tubs and massages sound pretty nice after a day of hiking, you can save significantly by going the camping route and get the real experience.
How to book
Don’t take the trek alone. Take the Salkantay Trek with a group! Book online in advance to save money and avoid the trouble of setting up your hike locally. Look up travel agencies in Cusco and email a few of them asking for quotes. Figure out your plan and then get ready for the hike of a lifetime.
Kat Sweet
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