People looking for an alternative route to Machu Picchu often use Salkantay (also spelled Salcantay or Sallqantay) when Inca Trail permits run out. In fact, it has become the second most popular trail in the Cusco area.
Salkantay, at 6,271 meters (20,574 feet), is found roughly 40 miles (60 kilometers) to the northwest of Cusco. Salkantay Mountain is revered as an important apu, or mountain god, in the Andean region since it is the second-highest peak in the Vilcabamba mountain range (after Ausangate).
The term “sallqa,” from which “salkantay” is derived, meaning “wild, savage, or invincible” in Quechua. Salkantay mountain was sacred to the Inca because of its connection to the elements and the seasons. The attraction of a trip via Salkantay is the breathtaking mountain scenery. Crossing high mountain passes, walking beside snowy peaks, and descending into the Andean jungle are all part of the Salkantay climb to Machu Picchu. An extraordinary voyage across varying landscapes, from nearly 4600 meters (15,092 feet) in elevation to a final elevation of just 1000 meters above sea level.
Both a 5-day and 4-day Salkantay trek are available through Apus Peru. Both are planned to keep you from becoming too entangled with other tourists while also revealing hidden gems that are overlooked by other trekking firms. The 5-day journey is considered moderately challenging, while the 4-day trek is an extreme challenge for only the most physically capable hikers.
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