How to do the Salkantay trek without a tour and on your own?

Unlike the Inca Trail, the Salkantay trek can be done without a tour, on your own and without a tour guide. To make this walk you must take all necessary precautions.

Follow these recommendations to make the Salkantay trek on your own:
Book the Machu Picchu tickets in advance before making the Salkantay trek. Otherwise, you can return without knowing the Wonder of the World.
The route to follow is the same as the Salkantay trek with tour. The journey on your own may take more or less days, depending on the visitor's ability.
The first step is to reach the town of Mollepata from the city of Cusco. Cars are taken at the ‘Arcopata’ bus terminal, in the city of Cusco.
From Mollepata the ascent begins. It is advisable to carry what is strictly necessary (food for 5 days and sleeping equipment) to avoid carrying excessive luggage.
What to wear for the Salkantay trek?

• Sleeping bags.
• Cap or hat
• Trekking shoes
• Trekking backpack
• Waterproof jacket
• Trekking pants
• Poncho for the rain.
• Canteen with water.
• Water purifying tablets.
• Sunscreen.
• Personal toiletries.
• Snacks
• Cash.

What does a tour to Salkantay trek include?
In general, tours to Salkantay trek include the following:

• Breakfast, lunch and dinner.
• Sleeping tents
• Tour guides
• Entrance to Machu Picchu.
• Transportation from Cusco to Mollepata.
• Transportation by train from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo.
• Bus from Ollantaytambo to Cusco.
• Horses to transport luggage (5 kilos).

When is the best time to do the Salkantay trek?
The best time to visit Machu Picchu is in the dry season (from April to October). During those months, there is less chance of rain so the roads are in better condition.
In the dry season, however, the days are sunnier and the nights colder. According to mountaineering experts, June, July and August; It is the best time to do the Salkantay trek.
Tips for the Salkantay trek
Acclimatize one or two days in the city of Cusco before performing the Salkantay trek.
Avoid alcoholic beverages or high fat meals. The altitude sickness or soroche in Salkantay and Machu Picchu is one of the greatest difficulties.
Perform some exercise prior to Salkantay trek. You don't need to be in excellent physical shape but a little exercise will help.
No matter what part of the year, he wears warm clothes during the Salkantay trek. The nights are especially cold in the first two days.
Plan up to the smallest detail the Salkantay trek on your own.