If you’re planning a once-in-a-lifetime trek in Peru and can’t decide between the Salkantay Trek and the Ausangate Trek, you’re not alone. Both are stunning high-altitude adventures in the Andes, but they cater to very different experiences.
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In this guide, we’ll compare these two iconic treks based on difficulty, scenery, altitude, cultural experiences, and connection to Machu Picchu, so you can choose the best one for your style of travel.
At a Glance: Key Differences
| Feature | Salkantay Trek | Ausangate Trek |
|---|---|---|
| Destination | Ends at Machu Picchu | Remote circuit (no Machu Picchu) but can be added |
| Length | 5 days / 4 nights | 5-6 or even more days |
| Max Altitude | 4,650 m (Salkantay Pass) | 5,200 m (Palomani Pass) |
| Difficulty | Moderate to Challenging | Challenging to Strenuous |
| Scenery | Jungle, snow peaks, Inca ruins | Glaciers, rainbow mountains, lakes |
| Popularity | Popular alternative to Inca Trail | Off-the-beaten-path |
| Best for | Adventurers heading to Machu Picchu | High-altitude trekkers & photographers |
Salkantay Trek: What to Expect
Why Choose the Salkantay Trek?
- Ends at Machu Picchu – Ideal if visiting the Inca citadel is your top goal.
- Diverse landscapes – Trek from glaciers to cloud forest in just a few days.
- No permit required – Unlike the Inca Trail, but still need entrance ticktes for Machu Picchu book 2 or 3 months in advance.
Highlights
- Crossing Salkantay Pass (4,650 m) with breathtaking snow-capped views.
- Camping under the stars near Humantay Lake.
- Gradual descent through lush valleys, coffee plantations, and Incan paths.
- Final day: Sunrise at Machu Picchu via the Llactapata trail or Aguas Calientes.
Expert Tip:
Choose a 4- or 5-day itinerary with guided support if you want to enjoy the trail without carrying heavy gear or stressing about logistics.
Ausangate Trek: What to Expect
Why Choose the Ausangate Trek?
- True wilderness – One of Peru’s most remote and untouched trekking circuits.
- Rainbow Mountain – Optional visit to Vinicunca, one of the most Instagrammed spots in the Andes.
- Stunning landscapes – Glacial lakes, red valleys, wild vicuñas, alpacas and llamas, and thermal baths.
Highlights
- Climbing over five high-altitude passes, including Palomani Pass (5,200 m).
- Views of Ausangate Mountain, a sacred peak in Andean cosmology.
- Soaking in natural hot springs in Pacchanta.
- Authentic interaction with Quechua communities.
Considerations:
- No Machu Picchu – This trek is purely about nature and Andean culture but if you want to visit Machu Picchu you can do it ading one extra day.
- Altitude – Not for beginners. Acclimatization in Cusco (2–3 days minimum) is essential.
Expert Tip:
Go with a licensed guide or local tour operator, not only for safety but to support sustainable tourism in local communities.
Which Trek Is Better for You Salkantay or Ausangate Trek
| Traveler Type | Recommended Trek |
|---|---|
| First-time visitors to Peru | Salkantay Trek (includes Machu Picchu) |
| Off-the-beaten-path adventurers | Ausangate Trek |
| Nature photographers | Ausangate Trek (unreal landscapes) |
| Cultural explorers | Both – Salkantay offers Inca history, Ausangate offers Andean tradition |
| Moderate fitness level | Salkantay |
| High-altitude experience | Ausangate |
Best Time to Trek: Salkantay vs. Ausangate Trek
The timing of your trek plays a crucial role in ensuring the best possible experience. Both the Salkantay Trek and Ausangate Trek are high-altitude treks, and the weather and seasonal conditions can greatly impact your journey. Here’s a breakdown of the best time to trek each of these iconic routes, to help you make an informed decision.
1. Salkantay Trek: Best Time to Visit
The Salkantay Trek is best done during the dry season, when the weather conditions are more stable, and the trails are easier to navigate.
Recommendation: If trekking during the rainy season, make sure you are prepared for wet conditions and choose a guided tour with flexibility in case of disruptions.
Ideal Season: May to September
Weather: Sunny, with clear skies and low chances of rain. Temperatures are cooler at night (down to 0°C / 32°F) but comfortable during the day (15°C–20°C / 59°F–68°F).
Advantages: Dry conditions make the trek safer and more enjoyable, with stunning views of snow-capped mountains, lakes, and valleys. The trek culminates with the visit to Machu Picchu, making the dry season perfect for this iconic adventure.
Peak Season: June, July, and August are the most popular months. Expect more crowds during these months, especially at Machu Picchu. If you want to avoid crowds, try trekking in May or September.
Rainy Season: November to March
Weather: The rainy season can be quite wet, especially in the jungle areas. Expect heavier rainfall and occasional mudslides.
Challenges: The risk of trail closures and visibility issues due to rain and cloud cover. However, the shoulder months of April and October are usually less rainy and can still offer a pleasant experience.
2. Ausangate Trek: Best Time to Visit
The Ausangate Trek is an incredibly remote and high-altitude trek, so choosing the right season is vital to your safety and enjoyment.
- Ideal Season: May to September
- Weather: Similar to Salkantay, the dry season is ideal for trekking Ausangate, with clear skies and cooler temperatures. Daytime temperatures range from 10°C to 15°C (50°F–59°F), while nighttime can drop to below 0°C (32°F), especially at higher altitudes.
- Advantages: The dry season offers excellent visibility of Ausangate Mountain, colorful valleys, high-altitude lakes, and Rainbow Mountain. The trail conditions are also much better, as the high-altitude paths can become muddy and dangerous during the rainy season.
- Peak Season: June to August sees more trekkers, so to avoid the crowds, consider May or September.
- Rainy Season: November to March
- Weather: Expect frequent rains, which can make trails muddy and slippery. Higher altitudes may have unpredictable weather, including snowstorms.
- Challenges: The rains increase the risk of landslides, poor trail visibility, and cold temperatures, especially on the high passes of Palomani and Upis.
- Recommendation: If you do trek during the rainy season, ensure you’re physically prepared for the elements and that your tour company provides proper equipment for cold and wet conditions.
FAQ: Salkantay or Ausangate Trek
1. Which trek is better for beginners?
Salkantay is more suitable for beginners with good fitness. The altitude is lower compared to Ausangate, and the trail infrastructure is better developed.
2. Can I do these treks without a guide?
Yes, but it’s highly recommended to go with a certified guide or tour company, especially for Ausangate, due to its remoteness and lack of signage. Guides also provide essential support in emergencies and enhance the cultural experience.
3. Is altitude sickness a risk on both treks?
Absolutely. Both treks are above 3,000 m, and Ausangate reaches 5,200 m. Spend at least 2-3 days acclimatizing in Cusco before starting either trek, stay hydrated, and ascend slowly.
4. Is Rainbow Mountain part of the Ausangate Trek?
Yes, Vinicunca (Rainbow Mountain) can be included as a detour or side trek during the Ausangate circuit. Be sure to confirm this with your tour provider.
5. What’s the best time of year for each trek?
- May to September (dry season) is ideal for both treks.
- Salkantay is possible year-round but can be muddy during rainy months (Nov–Mar).
- Ausangate is not recommended during the rainy season due to poor trail conditions and visibility.
6. Which trek has better views?
Both offer jaw-dropping scenery:
- Salkantay blends glaciers, jungle, and ancient paths.
- Ausangate showcases high-altitude lakes, colorful mountains, and untouched Andean landscapes.
If photography and solitude matter to you, Ausangate wins.
7. How much do these treks cost?
Prices vary by operator and service level:
- Salkantay: $350–$700 USD (group tours)
- Ausangate: $450–$800 USD (fewer operators, smaller groups)
I am Carlos, founder of Machu Picchu Soul, a local tour operator and travel agency based in Cusco, Peru. My journey in tourism began as a porter on the iconic Inca Trail, where I developed a deep connection with the land and its history. After years of dedication, I became a professional tour guide, honing my skills to deliver exceptional experiences. With over 15 years of expertise, I decided to establish Machu Picchu Soul to combine my passion for authentic travel with a commitment to supporting local communities and creating unforgettable adventures for our guests.
