Salkantay trek

The Salkantay trek is the alternatvie "back door" route to Machupicchu. The standard route takes 5 days, and it can be extended to 7 days.
There are a few differences between the Incal Trail and the Salknatay trek. The Inca Trail can be done only with a group, so if you don't book it a few months in advance, you probably will not have a place there. The Salkantay trek can be done either independently or with a group. During the high season, groups go every day, and there is no problem joining one.  Those people who are seriously into Inca culture will prefer the Inca Trail, since it has lots of Inca ruins along the way. On the other hand, the Salkantay, though lacking Inca ruins along the way, features excellent mountain views, and is a very beatiful trek.

It begins from the village of Mollepata, about 3 hours from Cusco. The first day consists of a steady uphill climb. During the day, the snow capped mountains are getting closer all the time. Sleeping at an altitude of 3800 makes a cold night, so be prepared.
The second day starts with a steep and breathless climb up to the mountain pass under Apu Salkantay. The views are superb during the ascent, and also during the long descent afterwards. During the descent, it seems like you are above the clouds. Camping at 2800 meters is already easier
The following days are an more flat or easy downhill. You go through nice valleys, and the landscape becomes more green, or so called "semi jungle". The third evening is spent near the village of Santa Terressa with it's wild hot springs (see section).
The fourth day goes up to the village of Aguas Calientes and crosses the river with cable cars, quite fun. For those who are weary, this day can be short cutted with the help of trucks and trains. The night at a hostel at Aguas Calientes is where you meet a shower after 4 days.
The fifth day is a full day at Machupicchu. Sleeping at Aguas Calientes makes it possible to reach the site early in the morning, when the light is good, and there aren't too many tourists there.
All in all, beautiful !