Q: Does the Salkantay or the Inca Trail have better accommodation?

The Salkantay Trek generally has better accommodation. The Inca Trail involves basic camping, while Salkantay tours can include mountain lodges, domes and more comfortable campsites, depending on the operator.

Q: Is the Salkantay Trek or the Inca Trail more difficult?

I found the Salkantay Trek more difficult overall. The longer hiking days, higher altitude and greater elevation gain made it more physically demanding than the Inca Trail.

Question 1

Does the Salkantay or the Inca Trail have better accommodation?

Accepted Answer

The Salkantay Trek generally has better accommodation. The Inca Trail involves basic camping, while Salkantay tours can include mountain lodges, domes and more comfortable campsites, depending on the operator.

Question 2

Which trek is more scenic - the Salkantay or the Inca Trail?

Accepted Answer

Both are incredibly scenic trails, however, the Salkantay has more snow-capped mountains and the added bonus of Humantay Lake which is a turquoise coloured alpine lake below a glacier. Therefore, I would argue that the Salkantay is the more scenic of the two treks.

Question 3

Is the Salkantay Trek or the Inca Trail more difficult?

Accepted Answer

I found the Salkantay Trek more difficult overall. The longer hiking days, higher altitude and greater elevation gain made it more physically demanding than the Inca Trail.

Question 4

Is the Inca Trail worth the extra cost?

Accepted Answer

I think the Inca Trail is worth the extra cost if entering Machu Picchu through the Sun Gate and hiking the original Inca route is important to you. If you're just interested in dramatic scenery and a challenging adventure, I think the Salkantay Trek offers better value for money.

Question 5

Can you do both treks without a guide?

Accepted Answer

No, you can't do the Inca Trail independently; you must trek with an authorized guide and permit. The Salkantay Trek is technically possible without a guide, but I would recommend booking a guided trek, particularly because of the altitude, remote sections and logistics involved.

Hiking

Inca Trail vs Salkantay Trek (From someone who’s done both)

Hiking the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu: The Best Group Tour

The Salkantay Trek: My Experience & Everything You Need to Know

What to Wear Hiking in Winter in Vancouver

Best Fall Hikes in Quebec

Where to Find the Wildflowers on the Healy Pass Trail

How to Backpack to the Stunning Egypt Lake in Banff National Park

Hiking the Stunning Congress Trail in Sequoia National Park

Everything You Need to Know About General Sherman: The Biggest Tree in the World

The Big Trees Trail in Sequoia National Park