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Salkantay Treks

Epic Alternative Hikes to Machu Picchu

We believe some paths are not meant to be tamed. The Salkantay Trek is for those who seek the wild heart of the Andes. We guide you on a journey from turquoise glacial lakes to lush cloud forests, all under the watch of the sacred Apu Salkantay. This is more than a hike; it is an expedition that challenges your limits and rewards you with unforgettable landscapes on your way to Machu Picchu.

Choose your epic Salkantay adventure

We have crafted different ways for you to experience the legendary Salkantay trail. Whether you seek the full multi-day immersion or a more condensed but equally powerful journey, we have the perfect trek for you. As specialists in Andean adventures, we ensure your trek is safe, inspiring, and expertly guided from start to finish. Explore our Salkantay trek to Machu Picchu options below and find your ultimate challenge.

Salkantay Trek 4 Days

This is our most popular version and the classic Salkantay experience. The Salkantay Trek 4 Days offers a perfect balance of challenge and beauty. We will guide you to conquer the formidable Salkantay Pass at 4,630 meters. From there, we descend from icy highlands into the warm, vibrant edge of the Amazon jungle. This trek is a complete journey through the stunning landscapes that make this route a world-famous adventure.

Salkantay Trek 3 Days

For travelers with a tighter schedule, we have concentrated the trek's essence into this condensed Salkantay experience. The Salkantay Trek 3 Days focuses on the most iconic highlights, including a visit to the stunning Humantay Lake and the challenge of the high pass. It is a fast-paced and demanding trek that rewards you with the best of the Salkantay in a shorter timeframe.

Salkantay Trek with Inca Trail 5 days

Why choose when you can have it all? This is the ultimate Andean challenge, combining the wild and remote beauty of Salkantay with the historic final stretch of the Classic Inca Trail. The 5 day Salkantay Trek with Inca Trail is an adventure for true trekking enthusiasts. You'll experience the best of both worlds, from towering snow-capped peaks to classic Inca stonework.

Tri-fold brochure for Kenko Adventures featuring the Salkantay trek with mountain views, trekking options (3, 4, and 5 days) - Kenko Adventures

Permitted and prohibited camping areas on the Salkantay Trek

One of the most spectacular alternatives is the Salkantay Trek, one of Peru's most impressive hiking trails. But this raises a big question for many travelers: Where and how can you camp on the Salkantay Trek?

The perfect adventure for travelers!

For those seeking an extreme experience and a deep connection with nature, camping on the Salkantay Trek is one of the best options. However, there are strict regulations regarding where camping is allowed and prohibited, not only to protect the ecosystem but also for the safety of travelers.

Permitted and prohibited camping areas on the Salkantay Trek

Camping on the Salkantay Trek: Where is it allowed?

As the route progresses, you will find several authorized campsites, all designated to ensure the safety and comfort of adventurers. These sites have been established to minimize environmental impact and protect the area's biodiversity. Some of the main permitted campsites include:

  • First Stop: Soraypampa (12,795 ft)

Our first stop is in the village of Soraypampa, located at the foot of the majestic Salkantay Glacier. This is a designated area with some shelter options and basic services. From here, many travelers take the opportunity to visit Humantay Lake before continuing the journey.

  • Chaullay (9,514 ft)

This small village is located 12 miles from Soraypampa, in La Convención, Cusco. This campsite marks the transition between high-mountain landscapes and the cloud forest. It is one of the most popular camping areas due to its warmer climate and the chance to rest after the challenging Salkantay Pass.

  • Collpapampa (9,350 ft)

Located in Quispicanchi, Cusco, this village has a cold and humid climate. It features another permitted campsite, surrounded by lush vegetation and crystal-clear streams. Nearby, you can find small local communities where you can stock up on food and water.

  • La Playa (Lucmabamba) (6,561 ft)

Located in the cloud forest region, this campsite is ideal for travelers who wish to experience rural life. From here, you can visit coffee and fruit plantations, as well as connect to the original Inca Trail to Llactapata.

  • Aguas Calientes (6,693 ft)

Although many hikers choose to stay in hostels, there are camping areas in Aguas Calientes for those who prefer to sleep in tents before their visit to Machu Picchu.

Where is camping prohibited?

To protect the ecosystem and ensure visitor safety, there are areas where camping is strictly prohibited. These include:

  • Salkantay Pass and High-Mountain Zone

This section crosses Salkantay Pass (15,255 ft), an area with extreme conditions. Temperatures can drop below freezing, and strong winds pose a danger to tents. Camping here is not only risky but could also destabilize the area.

  • Humantay Lagoon

Although the lagoon is one of the most beautiful attractions on the route, camping is prohibited due to its fragile ecosystem. Local authorities aim to preserve the purity of the water and minimize human impact in this sacred area for Andean communities.

  • Rivers and Water Sources

These areas are particularly dangerous during rainy season, as they pose risks of flooding and landslides. Additionally, preventing water source contamination is a priority for environmental conservation.

  • Archaeological Sites

Camping is not allowed near archaeological remains, such as Llactapata. This is due to heritage conservation regulations, as an accumulation of campers could damage historical structures and alter the surrounding environment.

Rules and recommendations for Camping on the Salkantay Trek

If you decide to camp along the route, it is important to follow some basic rules for a responsible experience:

  • Use designated campsites: Ensure you camp in authorized areas to avoid legal issues and help protect the environment.
  • Leave no trace: Carry out all your waste and avoid contaminating natural areas.
  • Respect the flora and fauna: Do not cut plants or disturb wild animals.
  • Follow the instructions of guides and authorities: They know the area well and will guide you on the best practices for a safe trek.

Alternatives for Non-Campers

For those who prefer not to camp, there are lodges, hostels, and eco-refuges along the route. Some options include:

  • Sky Lodge in Soraypampa: Offers transparent domes with views of the Salkantay Glacier.
  • EcoLodges in Lucmabamba: Accommodation surrounded by coffee plantations and lush nature.
  • Hostels in Aguas Calientes: A variety of options for a comfortable stay before visiting Machu Picchu.
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Salkantay tours

Salkantay 3d 1
Salkantay trek 3 days
Salkantay route is on its way to become one of the most famous across the world due to its ample geography and bio diversity of flora and fauna, this route goes through Humantay and Salkantay high mountains.
3D 2N
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Salkantay 4d 1 0
Salkantay trek 4 days
Afther hiking over the glaciers mountains, We visit Santa Teresa tropical valleys. The farmer from these towns are dedicated to coffee plantations and more other sweet fruits like passion fruit, oranges, papayas, bananas and honey bee farming.
4D 3N
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559.00
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Salkantay 5d 1 0
Salkantay trek 5 days
This trekking route to Machu Picchu is situated in Cusco region, nearest to Vilcanota mountains chain on the Peruvian andes. This hike starts from Cusco city then we will drive til Mollepata town (2.5 hours bus trip approx.), it is little town where we will stop to supply water and make ...
5D 4N
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Reviews for Salkantay Trek

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Bucket list Trip!
Kati S
Kati S

Amazing trip 100% worth the 4 day hike and better than just taking the train to Machu Picchu. Our guide Primo was full of knowledge and kept us happy and fed. Coolest thing I’ve ever done. The guide and porters are definitely worth the money since they carry all your belongings up and down 8000-13400 ft. If possible I would recommend getting to Machu Picchu more towards the afternoon because the main view was cloudy, but still visible. Also…

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Life Changing Experience
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Matthew A

I’ve been in the hospitality industry for 17 years and they blew my expectations out of the water. Elvis was such a knowledgeable guide, food and camping service was great, and they were so helpful with us taking in every moment of the 4 day trek. Trip of a lifetime and Kenko made it magical!

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Free warm jacket for my litle friend!

Kenko Adventure Peru founder decided to add a social proyect in all Our tours that means, if you are booking a tour with Us, you automatically are donating a warm jacket for Our litle kids that have very hard living in very cold conditions near by the Andes Mountain

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f you are booking a tour with Us, you automatically are donating a warm jacket

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