Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu in Peru (45 miles in 5 days)

[jartelt]

I thought some other backpackers may find this post useful. I wrote up a report that describes the trek on did on the Salkantay Trail in Peru. This was part of a guided trek from Cusco in Peru to Machu Picchu. The Salkantay Trail is a great alternative to the Inca Trail (which is often quickly sold out).

You can find the whole trip report here: https://backpackers-review.com/trip-rep ... ntay-trek/

Overview: This was a 5 day trek and we covered ~46 miles. The trail goes through some great terrain which varies from green valleys to glacier covered peaks to rain forests to Inca ruins. Since we did a guided trek (most people do this option), the hiking was much easier than usual because the porters carry most of your supplies. They also cook you awesome meals along the way! Machu Picchu was actually more interesting than we expected. I was worried it would be a small tourist trap, but it beat my expectations. The site is actually pretty big and we were able to cover ~10 miles while exploring all the different areas of the ruins.

Here are some photos of the sight along the trail...


Cusco, Peru


Lake near the first nights campsite


At the top of the Salkantay Pass (15,000 feet)


Lake near the top of the pass


Rainforest terrain along the trail


Machu Picchu in the morning


Looking down at Machu Picchu from the top of Huayna Picchu

[balzaccom]

Nice trip! We've done the more traditional trek to Machu Picchu, and loved it. So we went back and hiked in the Cordillera Blanca as well, Already planning our next trip. Peru has wonderful people, stunning archeology, and amazing food!

[jartelt]

Agreed, Peru is great! It was really amazing to see what the porters and chefs were able to cook out on the trail.