This is just a friendly post for anyone thats thinking of doing the Salkantay. There’s a lot of resources online but I didnt see a heap of posts on here. I just finished it yesterday and Im writing this in Aguas Calientes right now (actually sitting in line @4am waiting to buy tickets to Machu Picchu).
If you’re thinking about doing it yourself just do it. If you have the smallest amount of hiking experience- it really is super easy.
Other than night 1 there are multiple options for accommodation on each night. Just message them on Whatsapp. We stayed at Soraypampa Hostel, Samana Wasi Hostel, and Lucmabamba Lodge for about 60-80 Soles a night, which included dinner and breakfast. We really enjoyed each place but definitely book Lucmabamba lodge if you can. Its like a hotel for the same price as a dorm, and the family is super lovely.
Everywhere also made sandwhiches for lunch the next day, and there a lots of kioskos along the way to recharge on snacks and drinks.
You can organise your own transport from Cusco for cheaper by catching a collectivo and then a taxi to the trailhead. Or Soraypampa Hostel offers shared taxi and breakfast that morning for 80 soles.
The path is super easy to follow, and its a veritable highway during the day with all the tour groups on it. In the end up you probably end up saving $100usd (including tickets to Machu Picchu) doing it on your own, which isn’t a lot for some but is heaps for others.
Super rewarding. Good luck!
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