Walking to Machu Picchu is one of the great adventures in South America. The two most popular routes are the Classic Inca Trail and the Salkantay Trek. Both are unforgettable, but they offer very different experiences.
Classic Inca Trail – 4 days / 3 nights
- Distance: about 43 km.
- Highest point: Dead Woman’s Pass, 4,215 m.
- Highlights: original Inca stone paths, archaeological sites such as Runkurakay, Sayacmarca and Wiñaywayna, and the arrival at Machu Picchu through the Sun Gate.
- Permits: limited and sold out months in advance; the trail closes every February.
Choose it if history is your priority and you can book early. See our Classic Inca Trail or the shorter Short Inca Trail (2D/1N).
Salkantay Trek – 5 days / 4 nights
- Highest point: Salkantay Pass, 4,650 m.
- Highlights: the turquoise Humantay Lake, the glaciers of Salkantay and a dramatic descent into the cloud forest, coffee farms and hot springs.
- Permits: not required, so it is easier to book at short notice.
- Crowds: fewer people on the trail.
Choose it if you love mountain landscapes and want more flexibility. See our Classic Salkantay Trek or the Short Salkantay Trek (2D/1N).
Quick comparison
- Best for history: Inca Trail.
- Best for scenery and glaciers: Salkantay.
- Booking in advance: Inca Trail 4–6 months; Salkantay a few weeks.
- Difficulty: both are challenging; Salkantay is higher, the Inca Trail has more steps.
Still not sure? Our travel advisors will gladly help you choose the trek that best fits your dates and fitness level.
