The Salkantay 4 Day vs 5 Day trek comparison helps travelers understand the differences between these two popular routes to Machu Picchu. Both offer incredible landscapes, challenging paths, and unforgettable experiences, but each has unique features that can shape your adventure.

In this blog, you’ll discover everything you need to know about the Salkantay 4 Day and 5 Day treks: their routes, campsites, duration, difficulty, and practical tips on what to bring and how to prepare. Read on to get a clear view of what each trek offers and choose the option that fits your adventure style.

4-day Salkantay Trek

The 4-day Salkantay trek is ideal for those seeking an intense experience in less time. It begins in Mollepata or Soraypampa and crosses stunning landscapes, including snow-capped mountains and verdant valleys.

The highest point is the Salkantay Pass, at 4,650 m (15,000 ft), and then descends into the jungle to reach Aguas Calientes, the base of Machu Picchu. The route is challenging due to the altitude and the amount of daily walking, but compact in time.

5-day Salkantay Trek

The 5-day Salkantay trek offers a more relaxed pace and the opportunity to explore additional sites. It begins the same as the 4-day trek, but allows for an extra night at intermediate camps, reducing the daily intensity.

In addition to the Salkantay Pass, you’ll visit less-traveled areas and enjoy the transition from mountain to jungle at a more leisurely pace before reaching Machu Picchu. It’s ideal for those seeking a more complete experience and time to rest.

Main differences

• Duration: The 5-day route includes an additional day, allowing you to hike with less time pressure and enjoy more of the scenery.
• Difficulty level: The 4-day route is more intense and physically demanding, while the 5-day route is more manageable by breaking up the daily hike.
• Sites visited: The 5-day route includes intermediate camps and allows you to explore additional areas between mountains and jungle.
• Trekking pace: 4 days implies a brisk pace to complete the itinerary, while 5 days allows for a more relaxed pace and frequent breaks.
• Accommodations/campsites: The 5-day route uses additional camps to spread out the effort and offer more rest; the 4-day route concentrates accommodations in fewer locations.

Features	4-Day Salkantay Trek	5-Day Salkantay Trek
Duration	4 days	5 days
Difficulty Level	High	Medium
Places Visited	Main Highlights	Highlights + Extras
Trekking Pace	Intense	Relaxed
Camps	Fewer Camps	Plus Intermediate Camps

Advantage of each route

Advantages of the 4-Day Salkantay Trek

This route is ideal for those who are short on time but want an intense and exciting experience. It allows you to enjoy the main landscapes of the Salkantay Trek in a shorter period of time and reach Machu Picchu quickly. It is perfect for adventurous travelers looking for a physical challenge and not afraid of demanding hikes.

Advantages of the 5-Day Salkantay Trek

The 5-day route offers a more relaxed pace and the opportunity to enjoy the scenery and campsites at a leisurely pace. It is recommended for those who prefer to rest, better acclimatize to the altitude, and explore additional sites along the way. Ideal for travelers who want to combine adventure with comfort and time to enjoy each stage.

Tips for Travelers

• Adventurers: 4-day Salkantay Trek, more intense and challenging.
• Short on time: 4-day Salkantay Trek, see the highlights quickly.
• Seeking relaxation: 5-day Salkantay Trek, more relaxed pace and extra nights in camps.
• First-timers at altitude: 5-day Salkantay Trek, helps you acclimatize better and reduce the risk of altitude sickness.

What to bring and practical tips

Essential Clothing and Footwear

• Waterproof and windproof jacket.
• Thermal clothing for cold nights.
• Comfortable trekking pants and a change of shirt.
• Sturdy trekking boots and appropriate socks.

Essential Items

• Flashlight or headlamp, hat, gloves, and sunscreen.
• Reusable water bottle and energy snacks.
• Light backpack for daily hikes.

Things to Avoid

Don’t wear urban clothing, fancy shoes, makeup, or excess weight, as this will only make the hike more difficult.

Practical Tips

• Acclimatization: Arrive in Cusco one or two days early to adjust to the altitude.
• Food: Eat light and bring energy snacks; stay hydrated regularly.
• Protection from the cold: Layers of thermal clothing, a suitable sleeping bag, and sleeping warmly in camp.

Frequently asked questions

Is the 4-day Salkantay Trek more dangerous than the 5-day one?
The 4-day route is more intense and physically demanding, so it can be considered more challenging, especially for those unfamiliar with long hikes at altitude. The 5-day route allows for a more relaxed pace, reducing fatigue and the risk of discomfort.

Is previous trekking experience required for either route?
It’s not mandatory, but some experience helps. The 4-day route requires greater physical endurance, while the 5-day route is more accessible for beginners in good condition.

How does altitude affect each route?
Both routes exceed 4,500 meters (15,000 feet) at the Salkantay Pass. Altitude can cause altitude sickness if precautions are not taken. The 5-day route offers better acclimatization time.

Which campsites are used on each route?

• 4-day: Soraypampa, Chaullay, and Aguas Calientes.
• 5-day: Soraypampa, Wayracmachay, Chaullay, and Aguas Calientes, with an extra campsite for additional rest.

Can this be done alone or is a guide always required?
It is recommended to go with a guide, both for safety and to make the most of the experience and information about the route and the landscapes.

What type of food is offered at the campsites?
Energy-rich and balanced meals are served, including breakfast, lunch, and dinner. It is also recommended to bring personal snacks for the hike.

What is the best time to hike each trail?
From April to October, the dry season, which offers less rain and safer hiking conditions.

How do I get to the start of each trail?
From Cusco, you can take private or public transportation to Mollepata or Soraypampa, depending on the route chosen.

Is there transportation from Cusco to the starting points?
Yes, most travel agencies include transportation in their packages, or it can be booked separately.

Can it be combined with other trails or tours in the area?
Yes, it is common to combine the Salkantay Trek with inca trail, other nearby tours to make the most of your stay in the region.