Inca Trail vs Salkantay Trek
Peru is a country that offers some of the world’s most beautiful trekking routes. Two of the most popular treks are the Inca Trail and Salkantay Trek. In this blog, we will compare the Inca Trail vs Salkantay Trek to help you decide which trek is right for you.
Inca Trail
The Inca Trail is the most famous trek in Peru, and it’s no wonder why. It offers stunning views of the Andean mountains, the opportunity to visit several ancient Incan ruins, and culminates with the iconic Machu Picchu. The Inca Trail is a 4-day trek that covers 26 miles (43 kilometers) and reaches a maximum altitude of 13,780 feet (4,200 meters) at the Dead Woman’s Pass.
The Inca Trail is a popular trek, and permits are limited. It’s essential to book your trek well in advance, especially during the high season from May to September. You are required to trek with a licensed tour operator, and a guide will accompany you on the trail.
Salkantay Trek
The Salkantay Trek is a less famous but equally beautiful trek in Peru. It takes you through stunning Andean landscapes, the Salkantay mountain, remote villages, and offers the opportunity to see traditional Andean culture. The Salkantay Trek is a 5-day trek that covers 44 miles (71 kilometers) and reaches a maximum altitude of 15,213 feet (4,638 meters) at the Salkantay Pass.
The Salkantay Trek is less popular than the Inca Trail, and permits are not required. You can choose to trek with a licensed tour operator or independently. Trekking with a tour operator offers the benefit of an experienced guide and a support team that will set up your camp and prepare your meals.
Inca Trail vs Salkantay Trek
The Inca Trail and Salkantay Trek are both beautiful treks that offer hikers a unique experience. Here are some of the differences between the two treks:
- Scenery: The Inca Trail offers stunning views of ancient ruins, cloud forests, and Andean mountains. The Salkantay Trek takes you through remote Andean villages, high-altitude passes, and stunning mountain scenery.
- Difficulty: The Salkantay Trek is more challenging due to the higher altitude and longer distance. The Inca Trail is still a challenging trek, but it’s not as physically demanding as the Salkantay Trek.
- Permits: Permits are required for the Inca Trail and limited. The Salkantay Trek does not require permits.
- Crowds: The Inca Trail is a popular trek, and crowds can be present. The Salkantay Trek is less popular, and you’re likely to encounter fewer people on the trail.
- Cultural experience: The Salkantay Trek offers the opportunity to see traditional Andean culture and interact with local communities. The Inca Trail also offers a cultural experience with the chance to visit ancient Incan ruins.
Conclusion
Both the Inca Trail and Salkantay Trek offer unique experiences and beautiful landscapes. The Inca Trail is a classic trek and offers the chance to see ancient Incan ruins and culminates with Machu Picchu. The Salkantay Trek is a more challenging trek and offers stunning mountain scenery and the opportunity to see traditional Andean culture. Ultimately, the trek you choose will depend on your preferences, time, and physical abilities. Regardless of which trek you choose, be sure to pack the right gear, stay hydrated, and take care of yourself to ensure a safe and enjoyable trek.