The Salkantay Trek is one of the most breathtaking adventures to reach Machu Picchu. Although it is not as well-known as the Inca Trail, this hike offers stunning landscapes, from snow-capped mountains to tropical jungles. If you’re thinking about doing it, the key question is: When should I book my Salkantay Trek?
In this article, we’ll help you understand how far in advance you should book and what factors to consider to make everything go smoothly.
It’s recommended to book the Salkantay Trek at least 3 months in advance, especially if you plan to travel during peak season (May to September). Although, unlike the Inca Trail, there is no strict limit on the number of spaces, the best dates and services can fill up quickly.
Some travelers book just 1 month in advance, but this doesn’t guarantee you’ll get your preferred dates or have many options for available tour operators.
Here is a comparison table to help you decide when is the best time to make your booking:
| Booking time | Advantages | Disadvantages |
|---|---|---|
| 6 months in advance | – More date availability. – Possible early booking discounts. – Better choice of tour operators. |
– Early planning may be tricky if you’re not sure of your full itinerary. |
| 3 months in advance | – Dates available. – Opportunity to find good deals. – Enough time to prepare. |
– Some popular dates and operators may already be booked. |
| 1 month in advance | – Good for spontaneous travelers. – Last-minute promotions might be available. |
– Fewer operator options. – Prices may be higher. – Harder to find ideal dates. |
Unlike the Inca Trail, the Salkantay Trek doesn’t have a strict limit on the number of daily hikers, meaning you could theoretically book it at the last minute. However, booking in advance offers many advantages, like securing your preferred date and having the best tour operator options.
If you book just a month ahead, you can still find a spot, but you might have fewer options or pay more for services that would be more affordable with earlier booking.
The Salkantay Trek can be done year-round, but the experience varies greatly depending on the season.
One of the most important factors when booking is choosing a good tour operator. The earlier you book, the more options you’ll have to pick a company with a good reputation, better prices, and quality conditions.
Some factors to consider when choosing an agency are:
Booking at the last minute might seem exciting, but it comes with a few downsides:
Some agencies offer early booking discounts, especially if you book 6 months or more in advance. Additionally, you might find special offers during the low season or promotions for large groups.
When booking, you’ll need a few documents and meet certain requirements:
The best date depends on several factors, like your schedule, the weather, and how busy you want the trail to be. Here are some tips:
Booking the Salkantay Trek in advance ensures better organization, more tour operator options, and a more relaxed, enjoyable experience. While it’s not strictly necessary to book months in advance like for the Inca Trail, booking 3 to 6 months ahead will give you peace of mind and a better chance to enjoy this unforgettable adventure.
