im having a dilemma! 
can anyone reccomend this hike up to Machu Picchu over the actual Inca trail?
thanks
Nat
I have a similar question to nat. I have heard about a "back path" route up to Machu Pichu (which may be Salkantay) that I think takes a day longer than the Inca Trail. Can anyone give me more information about it, i.e. how long, how good, which companies, what cost? Planning on being in Cusco to do a trek in late April.
Cheers
Hey. I just did the Salkantay with a friend at the beginning of February. It is much longer than the Incan trail (100km vs 42) and goes much higher (4800M). It is a beautiful trek but somewhat arduous. My advice is be careful what you pay for. We paid like $200 pp and the food was crap and we were crammed 3 people into a tiny tent which was totally not good value for the money. Make sure you get details about the food and accommodations and shop around for the best price.
It is a beautiful hike from a natural standpoint, but don't expect any Incan artifacts or anything along the way until you get to Hydroelectrico and walk along the train tracks (retarded) to Aguas Calientes.
Thanks Cote, that`s useful info. Can you remember the name of the company you went with so that we can avoid them?! We will shop around and have been warned to find out what is included food and accommodation wise before signing up. We`re still undecided which trek to take to MP but knowing more about Salkantay will help!