Salkantay Mountain

Salkantay mountain, the tallest mountain in the Cordillera Vicabamba at 6,272m/20,569 feet and the second highest in the Cuzco area. The Salkantay trek offers more natural beauty, as opposed to ancient ruins. You pass high mountains and sweltering jungle, all in very desolate areas.

The trek usually starts in the town of Mollepata or Soraypampa in the Apurimac Valley to the northwest of Cuzco. You can get there by an early morning bus. The first night on this trek is cold, it is important that you are prepared for that. The camp is beside the snow-covered peak of Salkantay. On a clear night you will see a sky full of stars. Having a good quality sleeping bag is essential if you want a good nights sleep.

On Day two the trek continues straight up for about half a day. This day alone is more challenging than the regular trail, but do not let that deter you, many people in their 60s and older have successfully completed it.The amount of time it takes you to complete the Salkantay trek or Inca Trail Salkantay Trek depends on you.

Those with greater physical strengh and determination may finish hours ahead of the rest of the group. Most of all remember that this is not a race, you are here to enjoy this magnificent once in a life time experience.

There are a number of variations of tours that include the Salkantay Trek, the classic is 5 day alkantay Trek and it is complete most trek. There is a shorter 4 day version available too, or even a longer 7 day adventure. Some will end in the town of Santa Teresa, a short walk from the train station at the hydroelectric plant. It's a one-hour ride from there to Aguas Calientes. Salkantay Trek is the best alternative route to the Inca Trail