PERU

The Salkantay Trek is a hiking trail in Peru, South America, offering a challenging alternative to the classic Inca Trail to Machu Picchu. Starting near Cusco, this 5-day hike takes you through incredible and diverse landscapes—from towering snow-capped peaks like Mount Salkantay to lush, misty cloudy forests.

Unlike the crowded Inca Trail, the Salkantay route is quieter (although getting more and more popular!), more spectacular (in my personal opinion) and doesn’t require permits, making it a great alternative.

I hiked this trail with Machu Picchu Reservations in June 2024 - read all about my experience in the posts below, and get started (or inspired) planning your hike!