Salkantay Trek 4 days vs 5 days: Differences and challenge

Reaching Machu Picchu is a dream, but doing it through the imposing Salkantay route is a life-changing experience. However, when planning this adventure, the most common question among our travelers arises: Which one is better? Should I choose the salkantay 4 vs 5 days?

If you find yourself at this crossroads, don’t worry. As local experts, we have prepared this definitive guide to help you decide. We will analyze the salkantay difficulty in both versions, what you sacrifice in the short itinerary, and which option best suits your physical condition and travel expectations.

The Dilemma: Speed or Scenic Enjoyment?

At first glance, the difference seems to be only 24 hours. But in the high mountains, one day can drastically change the experience.

Both routes will take you from the snowy peaks to the high jungle, culminating in the Inca wonder. The key to choosing between salkantay 4 vs 5 days lies in your walking pace and how much time you want to spend enjoying the landscapes without feeling the pressure of the clock.

Salkantay Trek

Machu Picchu

The 5-Day Option: The Classic Experience

This is the “star” itinerary and the one we recommend to 80% of our travelers. Why? Because it is designed to be enjoyed.

• Pace: Moderate. You have time to take photos, rest, and breathe.
• Key Advantage: It includes a relaxing afternoon at the Cocalmayo hot springs (Santa Teresa) and, most importantly, it usually includes the hike up to the Llactapata ruins on the fourth day.
• Llactapata: This archaeological site offers a unique and distant view of Machu Picchu that few get to see, something that is generally lost on the short route.

The 4-Day Option: The “Salkantay Challenge”

If you are an experienced hiker and have few days in Peru, this short salkantay itinerary is for you.

• Pace: Fast-paced and demanding. It is known as the salkantay challenge because it compresses almost the same distance into less time.
• The Sacrifice: Usually, the visit to the Cocalmayo hot springs and the climb to Llactapata are skipped to go directly towards Hidroeléctrica and Aguas Calientes.
• Long Days: Prepare to walk more hours per day, especially on the second and third days.

Salkantay Difficulty Comparison and Technical Data

To make an informed decision, it is vital to look at the numbers. Don’t be fooled, both routes require effort, but the intensity varies.

Here is a comparative table to visualize the salkantay 4 vs 5 days:

Feature	Salkantay 5 Days (Classic)	Salkantay 4 Days (Challenge)
Difficulty	Moderate – Challenging	High – Very Challenging
Total Distance	Approx. 70-74 km	Approx. 60-65 km (varies by shortcuts)
Daily walking hours	6 to 7 hours average	8 to 10 hours average
Highest point	Salkantay Pass (4,630 m.a.s.l.)	Salkantay Pass (4,630 m.a.s.l.)
Visit to Llactapata	YES (Usually included)	NO (Usually omitted)
Time at Humantay Lake	Relax and enjoyment	Quick visit

Important Note: The salkantay difficulty is not only due to the distance but also the altitude. In the 4-day version, the body has less recovery time between grueling days.

Abra Salkantay

Salkantay Mountain

Which itinerary to choose according to your profile?

Choose the 5-Day Salkantay if:

1. It is your first time in the Andes: The altitude hits hard, and a gentler pace helps with acclimation.
2. You love photography: You will want to stop every 10 minutes. The landscapes change from snow to tropical jungle and deserve to be admired.
3. You want to see Llactapata: Seeing Machu Picchu in the distance from another mountain is a magical reward before reaching the citadel.

Choose the 4-Day Salkantay if:

1. You have excellent physical condition: You do cardio regularly or have experience in multi-day treks.
2. You have a tight schedule: If your flights or vacations are limited, this short salkantay itinerary allows you to live the adventure without losing the essence.
3. You are looking for a sporting challenge: You want to test your endurance and feel the satisfaction of completing the salkantay challenge.

Expert Tips from Local Trekkers Peru

After guiding hundreds of travelers through these mountains, here are our “Golden Tips” to ensure success in either option:

• Acclimation is Non-Negotiable:Arrive in Cusco at least 2 or 3 days before the trek. No matter if you choose 4 or 5 days, if you are not acclimated, the Salkantay Pass will be an ordeal.
• Footwear is Everything:Use trekking boots that are already “broken in” (previously used). Never wear new boots on the Salkantay; blisters can ruin your trip.
• Layers, Layers, Layers:In the same day, you will go from -5°C on the snowy pass to a humid 25°C in the high jungle. Wear technical clothing that is easy to put on and take off.
• Trekking Poles:Highly recommended. Your knees will appreciate the support during the steep descent from the pass to the campsite area.

Conclusion: What is your decision?

The choice between salkantay 4 vs 5 days depends entirely on what you are looking for: A deep and scenic immersion or an intense physical challenge?

At Local Trekkers Peru, we believe there is no “better” option than another, but a “correct” option for each traveler. Both routes will give you the magic of Humantay Lake, the majesty of Apu Salkantay, and the glory of reaching Machu Picchu on your own.