Trekking the Salkantay Trail is more than just a scenic journey to Machu Picchu—it’s also a physically demanding adventure. For many, the question arises: do people lose weight hiking the Salkantay Trail? The short answer is yes. Thanks to the high altitude, long hiking days, and limited access to processed foods, this trek offers the perfect conditions for shedding extra pounds.
What to Expect Physically on the Salkantay Hike
The Salkantay Trail spans approximately 74 kilometers (46 miles) over four to five days, with elevations reaching up to 4,650 meters (15,255 feet) at the Salkantay Pass. The physical demands of the Salkantay Trail are no joke. Hikers are on their feet for 6 to 10 hours a day, covering steep inclines and rough terrain. This means you burn a significant number of calories daily.
- Calories burned hiking Salkantay:Â On average, hikers can burn between 3,000 to 5,000 calories per day depending on their weight, pace, and terrain difficulty.
- Physical demands:Â Steep ascents, high altitudes, and low oxygen levels make it a high-endurance challenge, ideal for boosting cardiovascular fitness.
Salkantay Trail Weight Loss: Why It Happens
1. Extended Physical Activity
Spending several days hiking uphill and downhill across varying altitudes results in a sustained calorie burn. For those who rarely do long hikes, this is an intense workout.
2. Altitude and Metabolism
High-altitude hiking increases basal metabolic rate. Your body uses more energy to adjust and function properly, especially above 3,000 meters. This boosts fat oxidation and helps with weight reduction.
3. Cleaner Eating
On the trail, meals are typically fresh, balanced, and portion-controlled. There’s minimal snacking and almost no processed food. This naturally creates a calorie deficit, further promoting weight loss.
4. Hydration and Detox
High water intake, combined with the clean air of the Andes and reduced sugar and salt intake, helps reduce bloating and supports detoxification.
Hiking Salkantay and Losing Weight: Real Experiences
Many trekkers report real weight loss stories from the Salkantay Trail. While the amount lost varies by body type and fitness level, it’s common to lose between 2 to 5 kilos (4.4 to 11 pounds) during the 4-day trek. The difference is noticeable in how your clothes fit, your energy levels, and even your sleep quality.
Some travelers have shared that:
- They noticed reduced waistlines.
- Their appetite shifted towards healthier food.
- They felt physically and mentally lighter by the end of the trail.
Salkantay Trek Fitness Benefits Beyond the Scale
Losing weight is just one of the benefits. The Salkantay Trek fitness benefits include:
- Increased lung capacity
- Improved cardiovascular health
- Greater muscular endurance
- Mental clarity and stress reduction
All these benefits contribute to long-term health gains and kickstart more active lifestyles post-trek.
Hiking for Weight Loss vs Traditional Exercise
When comparing hiking for weight loss to gym workouts, the Salkantay experience stands out due to its total-body engagement, natural setting, and immersive intensity. Unlike gym routines, hiking incorporates natural resistance (gravity, terrain), mental stimulation, and sustained effort, making it a highly efficient fat-burning exercise.
Can You Lose Weight Hiking the Salkantay Trail? Yes, But with Some Notes
While most people do shed pounds, weight loss isn’t guaranteed for everyone. A few things to keep in mind:
- You may gain muscle mass in your legs and core, which can offset fat loss on the scale.
- Staying hydrated and sleeping well affect how your body processes the physical stress.
- The acclimatization process may temporarily reduce appetite, leading to reduced calorie intake.
Salkantay Trek vs Inca Trail Weight Loss
When comparing the Salkantay Trek vs Inca Trail weight loss outcomes, Salkantay may have a slight edge. Why?
- It’s slightly longer and more remote.
- Elevation is higher.
- Trail is less traveled, meaning fewer distractions and more focus.
However, both trails can promote weight loss if approached with the same physical commitment.
Does Hiking in Peru Help With Weight Loss Long-Term?
Yes, hiking in Peru offers long-term weight management benefits if it serves as a catalyst for adopting a healthier lifestyle. Many people feel inspired to continue hiking, eating better, and staying active after completing the trek. The emotional and physical rewards are so profound that they often translate into lasting habits.
Tips for Losing Weight While Hiking in Peru
- Train before your trek: Boost endurance to burn more calories and avoid injury.
- Hydrate consistently: Proper hydration aids metabolism and recovery.
- Choose lighter meals: Stick to lean proteins, vegetables, and complex carbs.
- Avoid sugary snacks: Replace them with nuts, seeds, and dried fruits.
- Sleep well: Recovery is key to weight management.
- Stay consistent post-trek: Build on your momentum once you’re back home.
The Health Benefits of the Salkantay Trek
Besides weight loss, the health benefits of the Salkantay Trek include:
- Lower blood pressure
- Reduced risk of chronic disease
- Better joint mobility
- Mental wellbeing
These make the experience not just transformative for your body but also for your mindset.
Final Thoughts: Hiking Salkantay Is a Step Toward a Healthier You
So, do people lose weight hiking the Salkantay Trail? Absolutely. Whether you’re aiming to kickstart a fitness journey, detox your mind and body, or simply enjoy one of the most beautiful treks in the world, Salkantay delivers.
Start your transformation now by booking the 4-day, 3-night Salkantay Trek with Viajes Speedy.
Ready for your adventure? Discover our guided experience here: Salkantay 4D/3N Trek
