Santa Cruz Trek or Salkantay

Girlfriend and I are headed to Peru in April. Looking to do 1 trek and can't decide between the Salkantay to Machupicchu or the Santa Cruz trek. We do love mountains and spend a good time where we live hiking.
Trip time in total is 21 days so I don't think we could justify the 9 or so days it would take to do both.

Appreciate thoughts and tips.
Thanks!

I've done Salkantay only so I can't compare both, but since it's combined with MP I wouldn't hesitate which one to choose.

Sorry should have clarified that we would be doing MP regardless, just not with the longer trek leading up to it.
Totally agree with you though.

Trekking in the Cordillera Blanca would be an extra detour to the North.
Personally, I should say, none of the two. I'd rather recommend Ausangate in the Cusco area.

I've done both. Santa Cruz is a lot better in terms of views. The day you go over the salkantay pass is nice, but other than that I thought it was a little underwhelming. Santa Cruz was continuously good with more mountains.

Hi,

My SO did both, he highly recommends the Salkantay. In case you're having doubts, you can check this: https://www.allincatrail.com/salkantay-trek-to-machu-picchu

Hi, is recommended Salkantay because the landscapes are the best and also if you choose the other hike is possible the tour doesn't have the ticket of machu picchu...salkantay would be better :)

Both are really good choices but If I had to choose one of them, I prefer Salkantay.

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I have the same doubt. Although as I read in the answers, Salkantay is the preferred choice.

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