If you missed getting permits to hike the Classic Inca Trail, not to worry, alternatives do exist. If you do not want to take the train and have time to spare, consider one of the most viable alternatives – the Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu. Not only can you experience Machu Picchu, but you also hike through incredible scenery and get to see one of the country’s most iconic mountains – Mount or Nevada Salkantay.
The Salkantay Trek
The Salkantay Trek is a major alternative to the Classic Inca Trail. Its popularity owes much to its easy accessibility and affordability. Not requiring a permit is also a benefit. However, it would be a mistake to say the Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu has little merit of its own. Many opt for this route over the popular Inca Trail. It allows them to get up close and personal with Mount Salkantay – at 6,271m, it is the highest peak of the Willkapampa range. On the way, hikers traverse a varied setting. They wander through spectacular landscapes, moving from lowland jungle into alpine scenery and upwards into ice-covered mountains including Mount Salkantay.
While some groups offer a day trek, the only way to get the most out of the Salkantay Trek is to stretch it over five days. This gives you time to trek to the mountain before scaling the Salkantay Pass. From there, you can feast your eyes down on the valley that lies below.
The Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu
You can hike the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu. You can shorten the trip and take a train. However, you can also spend five days enjoying changing scenic sights and climbing an iconic mountain. This is only possible if you sign up for the Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu – more than an alternative to the Inca Trail.
