The Salkantay Trek is a 5-day trekking route in Peru that covers roughly 60 kilometers (37 miles) and leads to Machu Picchu. It is an alternative to the traditional Inca Trail and presents a unique combination of stunning landscapes, cultural immersion, and adventure. Sparrow Explorer Travel offers a luxury Trek experience on the Salkantay Trek with an emphasis on meaningful immersion into Andean culture and history.
How long is the trek ?
The length of the Salkantay Trek varies slightly depending on the source, but it is approximately 60 kilometers (37 miles) long. However, some sources state that it is around 74 km (46 miles) long. Another source mentions that the total distance of the Salkantay trail is 76 km (45.98 miles). The trek takes about 5 days and 4 nights to complete, and on the last day, hikers will visit Machu Picchu.
What is the maximum elevation point of the trek ?
The maximum elevation point of the Salkantay Trek is approximately 4,600 meters (15,090 feet) at the Salkantay Pass.
What is the distance between the starting point and the maximum elevation point ?
The distance between the starting point and the maximum elevation point of the Salkantay Trek varies depending on the source. One source states that it is approximately 48 kilometers (30 miles), while another mentions a walking distance of approximately 13 km (8 miles) to reach an altitude of 3,850 meters. Other sources state that the total distance of the trek is around 74 km (46 miles) or 76 km (47 miles).
How long does it take to complete the Salkantay trek ?
The Salkantay Trek usually takes four to six days to complete, although there are extensions that can turn the adventure into an eight-day odyssey. Depending on the source, the estimated trekking time per day is around 8 to 10 hours, or 9 hours. It is also possible to complete the trek in three days if pressed for time.
How long does it take to reach Salkantay Pass ?
The time it takes to reach the Salkantay Pass varies depending on the source. One source mentions that ascending to reach the famous Salkantay Pass (4,630 m / 15,190 ft) is not too strenuous nor very steep since it’s at the beginning of the trek . Another source states that the altitude at Salkantay Pass is 4580 meters and it takes 5 days to complete the trek. Yet another source mentions that it is usually completed in four to six days. The climate in the pass can reach -10°C.
What is the altitude of Salkantay Pass ?
The altitude of the Salkantay Pass is approximately 4,600 meters (15,090 feet). Another source mentions that the highest elevation point of the Salkantay Trek is 4,600 meters (15,090 feet) at the Salkantay Pass.
How challenging is the Salkantay Trek ?
The difficulty level of the Salkantay Trek varies depending on the source, but it is generally considered to be a challenging trek that requires a reasonable level of fitness and preparation. One source rates the difficulty level at 4-5 on a scale that reaches up to 7, while another mentions that it has a medium to medium-high difficulty. All sources agree that due to the high altitude and steep slopes, hikers need to be well-prepared and healthy prior to starting the trek.
What are some of the biggest challenges of the Salkantay trek ?
The biggest challenges of the Salkantay Trek are the high altitude and steep slopes, which require a good physical condition and preparation. However, some sources mention that the trek is a perfect combination of a challenging hike mixed with rewarding views as well as having plenty of time to relax. The length of the trek can also be a challenge for some hikers, especially if they opt for the longer 5-day route.
How to prepare physically for the Salkantay Trek ?
It is advised to engage in conditioning exercises like running, walking on an inclined treadmill, stair stepping or stepmill training, trail running, using an elliptical machine, walking up and down hills, or taking step aerobic courses to get in shape for the Salkantay Trek. It is also important to be in good shape mentally and physically, have strong leg muscles, and have no health issues regarding breathing. Other tips include hiking with weight, traveling long distances (spending a whole day in the mountain), walking slowly, sleeping at high altitudes before the trek, and taking preventive medicine.
What are some recommended exercises to prepare for the trek ?
Running, incline treadmill walking, stair stepping or stepmill training, trail running, using an elliptical machine, walking up and down hills, or doing step aerobic courses are all suggested exercises to be in shape for the Salkantay Trek. Other recommended exercises include strength and cardio exercises to strengthen muscles and become accustomed to strenuous exercise, walking, running, and breathing exercises.
What is the best way to train for the Salkantay trek ?
The best way to prepare for the Salkantay Trek is to take part in conditioning exercises like running, walking on an inclined treadmill, stair stepping or stepmill training, trail running, using an elliptical machine, walking up and down hills, or attending step aerobic courses. It is also recommended to do practice hikes at home and gradually increase their length. Spending time at a high-altitude place like Cusco can also help prepare for the altitude. Other tips include hiking with weight, traveling long distances (spending a whole day in the mountain), walking slowly, sleeping at high altitudes before the trek, and taking preventive medicine.
Are there any dietary recommendations for training ?
There are some dietary recommendations for training for the Salkantay Trek. One source suggests eating foods high in water, such as vegetables and fish, before the expedition. Another source recommends staying hydrated and bringing snacks such as bananas, chocolate bars, and candies on the trek. However, most sources do not provide specific dietary recommendations for training for the trek.
What are some recommended snacks for the trek ?
Some recommended snacks for the Salkantay Trek include fresh foods, cheese, dried foods, olive oil, powdered drink mixes, nutrition bars, and jerky. Another source mentions that a snack pack on the trek included bananas, chocolate bars (Sublime), and candies such as Jolly Ranchers. Clif Bars are also recommended by one source. Other snack options include Peruvian quinoa with chicken or meat, quinoa chaufa with aubergine and soy meat (vegetarian), small fruit juice boxes, bread with butter and jam, fruit salad with yogurt and muesli, minute soup, pasta salad with mushrooms and olives.
What are some popular snack bars for the trek ?
Some popular snack bars for the Salkantay Trek include nutrition bars, Kiwichi bars, and Epic meat-based snack bars. However, most sources do not provide specific recommendations for snack bars on the trek.
Which snack bars are recommended for the Salkantay trek ?
There is no specific snack bar that is recommended for the Salkantay Trek. Some sources mention nutrition bars as a good option, while others suggest small healthy snacks like energy bars and granola. One source mentions Epic meat-based snack bars as a delicious option packed with protein. Ultimately, the best snack bar will depend on personal preference and dietary needs.
Are there any local snacks that are recommended for the trek ?
Yes, there are local snacks that are recommended for the Salkantay Trek. One source mentions offering a large variety of local dishes for hikers to try food from the region, which is also high in nutrition. Another source mentions homemade jams and local breads, cheeses, and vegetables as part of a relaxed lunch on a farm before heading to local communities. However, most sources do not provide specific recommendations for local snacks on the trek.
What are some popular local dishes to try during the Salkantay Trek ?
Some popular local dishes to try during the Salkantay Trek include curried rice with cooked vegetables, spicy tuna salad with cucumber, roasted yucca and potato, vegetable pasta salad, and tomato soup. Another source mentions offering a large variety of local dishes for hikers to try food from the region, which is also high in nutrition. One tour operator mentions farm-to-table cuisine on the first day of the trek. While not specific to the Salkantay Trek, ceviche is a must-try dish in Peru that consists of raw fish marinated in fresh lime juice, thinly sliced red onion, cilantro, Ají Limo and salt.
Are there any vegetarian or vegan options available on the trek ?
Yes, there are vegetarian and vegan options available on the Salkantay Trek. One source mentions offering tours and treks for vegetarians and vegans, including the popular Salkantay Trek. Another source mentions dinner selections such as potato soup, rice and vegetable soup, Andean corn soup (more like a chowder), and steamed trout in a mushroom sauce served with vegetables. Other sources mention vegan products such as quinoa, kiwicha (amaranth), tarwi (Andean beans), potatoes, corn, avocado, beans and lentils, fruits and veggies in Cusco, phenomenal vegan food on the trek, and finding vegan and vegetarian options in Cusco, Aguas Caliente, and on the Salkantay Trek.
Which tour companies offer vegetarian and vegan options on the Salkantay Trek ?
Tour companies that offer vegetarian and vegan options on the Salkantay Trek include Quechuas Expeditions, Sparrow Explorer Travel, True Mountain Travelers, hummingbird peru, Vegan Cusco, and Alemana Tours. Sparrow Explorer Travel offers phenomenal vegan food on the trek, True Mountain Travelers offers tours and treks for vegetarians and vegans, including the popular Salkantay Group Trek, Sas Travel offers the best vegetarian dishes available for clients with food restrictions, Llama Path produces amazing food with some ancient recipes, and Condor Travel can accommodate vegetarians and vegans on their group tours.
How to book a vegetarian or vegan meal on the Salkantay Trek ?
To book a vegetarian or vegan meal on the Salkantay Trek, you can contact the tour company directly and inform them of your dietary requirements. Some tour companies, such as ITEP and Sparrow Explorer Travel, cater to everyone whether you’re vegetarian, vegan, or have food allergies. Lima Tours offers tours and treks for vegetarians and vegans. One traveler mentions working with a tour company that had photos of a vegetarian menu on their website. Another source mentions that professional chefs prepare meals on the Inca Trail and there are also food options for vegetarians and vegans if requested.
Is there an additional cost for vegetarian or vegan meals ?
No, there is no additional cost for vegetarian or vegan meals on the Salkantay Trek. Sparrow Explorer Travel states that their prices are net prices and do not include any additional charges. Sources mention providing vegetable salads and Russian salads for lunch on the trek, offering phenomenal vegan food without any additional charges, learning about vegan produce from the region and some of the best spots in the city to find vegan Peruvian dishes, and providing vegetarian/vegan options with no additional charges.
Is there an additional cost for vegetarian or vegan meals on the Salkantay Trek ?
No, there is no additional cost for vegetarian or vegan meals on the Salkantay Trek. Vegetarian option by Sparrow Explorer Travel states that their prices are net prices and do not include any additional charges. Another source mentions that ITEP will cater to vegetarians and vegans along the way without any extra cost. One tour operator mentions that vegetarian/vegan options are available on request with no additional charges.
Is there an additional charge for vegetarian or vegan meals on the Salkantay Trek ?
No, there is no additional charge for vegetarian or vegan meals on the Salkantay Trek. Sources mention providing a great balance of protein and carbohydrates in their lunches, stating that their prices are net prices and do not include any additional charges, offering phenomenal vegan food without any additional charges, providing vegetarian/vegan options with no extra cost, and mentioning that the Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu is from $829 per person with no additional charges for vegetarian or vegan meals.
How to request a vegetarian or vegan meal on the Salkantay Trek ?
To request a vegetarian or vegan meal on the Salkantay Trek, you can contact the tour company directly and inform them of your dietary requirements. Some tour companies, such as ITEP and Sparrow Explorer, cater to vegetarians and vegans along the way. Sparrow Explorer Travel offers tours and treks for vegetarians and vegans. One traveler mentions choosing a tour company that had photos of a vegetarian menu on their website. Another source mentions that professional chefs prepare meals on the Inca Trail and there are also food options for vegetarians and vegans if requested.
How to inform the trekking company about dietary restrictions ?
To inform the trekking company about dietary restrictions, you can contact them directly before departure and let them know of your specific dietary requirements or allergies. Sparrow Explorer Travel mentions taking nutritious and well-balanced food along on the trail. Another tour operator mentions catering to all food restrictions and making sure everyone has enough to make it up the mountain. It is important to inform the trekking company of any dietary restrictions beforehand to ensure that they can accommodate your needs.
How far in advance should you inform the trekking company about dietary restrictions ?
It is recommended to inform the trekking company about dietary restrictions as soon as possible, preferably at the time of booking or well in advance of departure. One source mentions that hikers are requested to inform the leader of the walk before departure if they have any specific dietary requirements or allergies. Another tour operator advises advising them in advance if you have any special dietary requirements so that they can make necessary arrangements. It is important to check with the specific trekking company for their policy on informing them about dietary restrictions, as it may vary from company to company.
How far in advance should you inform the trekking company about dietary restrictions ?
It is recommended to inform the trekking company about dietary restrictions as soon as possible, preferably at the time of booking or well in advance of departure. One source advises advising them in advance if you have any special dietary requirements so that they can make necessary arrangements. Another source mentions that anyone who wishes to trek Salkantay should spend at least 2 days in Cuzco. It is important to check with the specific trekking company for their policy on informing them about dietary restrictions, as it may vary from company to company
What are some common dietary restrictions that the trekking company can accommodate ?
Some common dietary restrictions that the trekking company can accommodate include veganism, vegetarianism, peanut allergies, lactose intolerance, and gluten intolerance. One source mentions that cruise lines have grown increasingly accommodating of special diets and should be able to handle most common allergies and dietary restrictions. Another source lists veganism and vegetarianism, peanut allergies, lactose intolerance, and gluten intolerance as some of the most common dietary restrictions. Other sources mention kosher meat products and shellfish/pork restrictions for guests keeping kosher, managing 20+ common dietary restrictions for events, and avoiding processed foods, sugar, soft drinks, etc. while eating meat, fish, eggs, vegetables, fruits, nuts, seeds, herbs, healthy fats and oils.
How to communicate dietary restrictions to trekking companies ?
To communicate dietary restrictions to trekking companies, you can contact them directly before departure and let them know of your specific dietary requirements or allergies. Some travel companies can prepare the required food as per the preference during the trekking trails. It is important to be clear about your restrictions and do your research beforehand. You can also ask the concierge at your hotel or inn which neighboring eateries or supermarkets would be best for you. Another source mentions storing food in watertight containers to prevent contact with melting ice water and keeping perishable foods cold while hiking, camping, or boating. Additionally, there are resources available online that provide information on food for hiking and trekking.
