Trekking to the famous Machu Picchu, one of the seven wonders of the world, is a bucket list for many travelers all across different countries. This “Lost city of Incas around the clouds” is also the center of tourism in Peru. But did you know that there are different routes to Machu Picchu, and among these routes are the famous Inca Trail and the peaceful Salkantay Trek.
Wanna know the difference? Here are some points worth reading to know what routes would suits you.
Normally, most trekkers think of Inca Trail as the best route to Machu Picchu as it will give you marvel at the stunning Incan architecture, historical ruins, cloud forest and majestic mountain views. Through this route, you’ll traverse the well-known terraces of Winay Wayna, an ancient Inca ruin site.
But if you are a fan of wilderness and solemnity, Salkantay Trek is best suit for you as it gives you abundant wildlife and spectacular snow mountain scene of Mount Salkantay which is known as one of the most sacred snow peaks in Inca mythology.
Basically, both routes would require you to prepare physically. Inca Trail’s difficulty is considered as moderate with 26 miles and 13,828 feet altitude. Walking for 6-9 hours a day for 4 days, Inca Trail is generally lot easier to do since there is less climbing and trek is shorter. While Salkantay Trek is more strenuous for its 46 miles and 15,000 feet altitude. The route is rougher, steeper, colder and can last up to 5 days.
Because of the popularity of Inca Trail, things are more difficult as tourists are required to acquire permits first which is capped at 200 people per day. Thus, booking for months or year in advance is necessary in Inca Trail. While Salkantay trek has no permit restrictions, hence, it is more flexible and available in terms of booking requirements.
Also, the cost is more expensive on Inca trail as it has better facilities and camping areas than Salkantay trek. Camps are already set up for a more luxurious and comfortable experience in Inca trail while Salkantay camping is more of a basic lodge trek experience.
One positive thing in choosing Inca trail is that it allows you to see the unreachable ruins that original Incas did, but the downside is it can get too crowded, busy and congested. In Salkantay trek, there are fewer ruins but more breathtaking scenery for you to find the solitude in wilderness. The downside of the trek requires you to a longer and more challenging trekking experience.
But remember, whichever route you decide, both promise an unforgettable trekking experience up in high mountains of beautiful Machu Picchu.