Salkantay Trek To Machu Picchu 5 Days | all Inclusive
The 5-Day Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu is one of the best alternative hikes to the Inca Trail hiking and is a great option for the adventurers who want to experience the drastic changes in landscape from mountain to jungle, as well as for those who are able to handle the high altitude and long distances. Ascending the Salkantay Pass of 4650 masl. (approx. 15,300 ft) is challenging, but with the right preparation we know you’ll find this hiking to be incredibly rewarding too. Read through our Frequently Asked Questions before your trek to make sure you feel as prepared as possible before your departure.
Your adventure begins early as we pick you up from your hotel between 4:30 am and 5:00 am. From there, you’ll travel comfortably in a tour van, passing through the picturesque towns of Izcuchaca and Limatambo, and arrive at Mollepata (2,900 meters / 9,500 feet) around 7:00 am for your first delicious breakfast of the day.
After breakfast, you’ll take a scenic 1-hour shuttle ride to Soraypamapa (3,800 meters / 12,467 feet). Once you arrive, we’ll begin your 5-hour hike with a steady ascent, leading you first to the stunning Humantay Lake.
Humantay Lake: After a 2-hour ascent, you’ll reach the magnificent Humantay Lake (4,200 meters / 13,779 feet), where you’ll be greeted by the mesmerizing turquoise waters and the towering snow-capped peak of Humantay Mountain. Take some time to admire the breathtaking scenery and snap photos.
Afterward, you’ll begin a 1-hour descent followed by a 20 minutes ascent to Apu Salkantay Camp. Here, our talented cooks will be waiting with a hearty lunch to refuel you for the next leg of your journey.
Following your nutritious meal, you’ll have the option to take a short hike to the Salkantay Viewpoint, where you’ll be treated to spectacular panoramic views of the surrounding peaks. Alternatively, relax in our comfortable Andean Huts, complete with pillows and cozy sleeping pads, providing you with the perfect environment to unwind.
At ApuSalkantay Camp, located at an elevation of 3,900 meters, you’ll enjoy some of the most stunning views of the Salkantay snow-capped mountain. Take advantage of additional short hikes or simply enjoy the mountain vistas, making this a truly unforgettable experience.
On the second day of the 5-day Salkantay Trek, prepare for the most demanding section of the journey, covering a total of 20 kilometers and reaching the trek's highest point at an elevation of 4,650 meters above sea level (15.255 ft). Your day commences with a tranquil wake-up call at 5:30 am, as our skilled mountain cooks serve you a steaming cup of coca tea to aid you in packing your belongings and getting ready for a substantial breakfast around 6:00 am."
you will leave Salkantaypampa Camp at 6:30 am, and hike for 2.5 hours to the highest point at Salkantay Pass (15.255 feet), where you can enjoy views of the snow capped mountains of Salkantay ( 6271 meters - 20,574 feet), Humantay snowy, Tucarhuay, and Pumasillo. As you pass thorugh Soyrococha, you stop to see a small lake, there you will have a short rest, then you will continue hiking upwards until you reach the highest point known as the Salkantay Pass 4,650 meters above sea level (15.255 feet), there you you will rest, you will take memory photos and your guide will give you an explanation about this wonderful place.
then you will begin the descent towards Huaracmachay (2 hours) (3800 meters/ 12,470 feet). Here you will eat buffet lunch and then you will continue the hike, taking note of the drastic change in landscape. After, you will continue your descent towards Chaullay (3 hours) (2900 meters/ 9500 feet) where our second campsite will be (Domes).
On day three of your Salkantay Hiking adventure, your mountain cooks will wake you up with a refreshing cup of coca tea at 5:30 am. After enjoying breakfast, you'll prepare for the day's journey. Starting at 6:30 am, you'll begin your descent from Chaullay towards the Coca Camp. This picturesque hike will take approximately 5 hours, with the trail winding through lush landscapes of fruit trees, coca, and cocoa plantations, offering a unique glimpse into the region's agricultural life.
Upon arrival at Coca Camp, our talented cooks will greet you with a well-deserved and restorative lunch. After a brief rest, you'll have the chance to take part in an enriching Coffee Tour, where you'll learn about the traditional coffee cultivation and production process.
In the afternoon, unwind by visiting the Cocalmayo Hot Springs, a perfect way to relax and soothe your muscles after the hike. Later, return to camp for a delicious dinner, followed by a restful night in our comfortable cabins, ready to recharge for the next day's adventure.
Your adventure on Day 4 begins early at 5:30 a.m. when our mountain cooks greet you with a warm cup of coca tea. After breakfast, you'll start your day’s trek at 6:30 a.m. On this leg of the journey, you'll hike along the Inca trail for approximately 3 hours, heading towards the stunning Inca site of Llactapata. Once you arrive, you'll be rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views of Machu Picchu and the surrounding sacred mountains (APUS).
After soaking in the magnificent scenery, you’ll descend for 2 hours to the town of Hidroeléctrica, where you can enjoy a well-deserved lunch. Following your break, the adventure continues with a 3-hour walk to Aguas Calientes, where your hotel awaits. Upon arrival, you can freshen up, explore the town, and relax.
Dinner is scheduled for 7:00 p.m. at a local restaurant in Aguas Calientes, where you can savor a delicious meal. As you dine, you’ll also prepare for the grand finale of your journey - your visit to the awe-inspiring Machu Picchu, the lost city of the Incas.
Start your day early as we make our way to the majestic Machu Picchu for a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Begin with a guided tour of this ancient Inca citadel, where you'll discover its awe-inspiring temples, terraces, and the fascinating stone structures that contribute to Machu Picchu’s status as one of the New Seven Wonders of the World.
After the guided tour, you'll have plenty of free time to take more photos, explore additional corners of the site, and soak in the breathtaking views. For those who have pre-booked tickets to Wayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain, this is your designated time to hike and enjoy even more spectacular panoramas.
Following your exploration, you’ll return to Aguas Calientes to catch your train back to Ollantaytambo, where our transport will be ready to take you back to Cusco. Please be at the train station 30 minutes before departure to ensure a smooth return journey.
TRANSFER FROM THE AIRTPORT TO YOUR HOTEL:
The day of your arrival in Cusco we will pick you up from the airport and take you to your hotel.
Briefing:
Prior to departure you will have a meeting with your guide in our office to go over all the details regarding your tour. The orientation will be around 6:00 pm the night before your trip.
Camping Acommodation:
You will espend the night in exclusive campsites, we are committed with our Pachamama (mother Earth), our Camsites are adapted to the environment and made with local materials.
1° night - Andean Huts.
2° night - Star Domes.
3° night - Jungle Domes and glass Capsules.
Experience Of Our Guides:
All of our guides have a minimum of 3 years of guiding experience. They are professional, responsible, and all have a deep love and respect for mother nature and her mountains. They will make sure your trip is safe and enjoyable.
SATELLITE PHONES:
Our top priority will always be the safety of our clients and our team. While all our guides are prepared and trained to deal with most issues clients have on the mountain. Being a phone call away from any doctor, hospital, or friend helps everyone feel assured that they are safe. Radios, which all our guides have, are limited in how far they can reach, so Machupicchu Trekking Peru has added Satellite Phones to every trek. Every guide will have a fully charged phone that can be used anywhere on the mountain to connect us anywhere in the world. And they can be used by our clients for non-emergencies as well.
FIRST AID:
All of our guides are certified in high mountain first aid training. They always carry a first aid kit on our treks (including pills for altitude sickness, diarrhea, vomiting, cuts, and cream for muscle aches). They also carry extra oxygen in cases of emergency.
MULEETERS:
The muleeters are in charge of driving the mules, and the horses are in charge of carrying the luggage, such as a backpack for each passenger, food and other things necessary for your adventure.
TRANSPORTATION:
ENTRANCE TICKETS:
CAMPING EQUIPMENT
ACCOMMODATION: CAMPSITE AND HOTEL
We have camps set up in every designated CAMPING SITE, which include:
The last night accommodation that is included will be in a Confortable Hotel*** in the town of Aguas Calientes.
NOTE: If you wish to reserve your own hotel or work with a specifc hotel, let us know in advance so that we are able to coordinate the details.
FOOD:
4 BREAKFASTS, 4 LUNCHES, AND 4 DINNERS:
Our talented chefs will prepare you a delicious and filling breakfast, lunch, and dinner throughout your trek. Our clients have loved the food prepared for them on their treks, and our chefs are also able to accommodate any dietary restrictions (such as vegetarian or vegan) at no extra cost. Please let your guide know at orientation if you have any dietary restrictions or allergies so we can organize them ahead of time.
All of the food we offer is BUFFET SERVICE (except for the fourth lunch and fourth dinner, which are in tourist restaurants)
Acclimatize min. 2 days to the altitude of Cusco city before doing the walk. Thus, the symptoms of altitude sickness will be avoided.
Packing List.
Please read carefully the following information as it will help you answer all of your questions about our services and the Classic Salkantay Trek 5 Days.
You will be welcomed at the Cusco airport by one of our team and taken to your hotel (private services). Please ensure that you inform us of your flight details at least 14 days prior to your arrival. Look for our representative holding an dark blue board Machupicchu Trekking Peru at the arrival terminal. You must exit the terminal, in order, to find our representative (they cannot enter inside).
The best time to make the trip is in the dry season, that is, between May and October. The most advisable month is May since everything is still green after the rains. On the other hand, the coldest month is June.
First of all, a backpack, in addition to the one that will carry the horse, as well as a sleeping bag of at least -5 degrees. The clothing should be suitable for trekking in a highland climate, with heat during the day and very cold at night. To store clothes, bring 3 bags that allow you to keep clean clothes separate from dirty ones. Don’t forget personal hygiene items for 5 days of trekking, such as towels, soap, toothbrushes, and toothpaste, toilet paper, etc. Bring the medicines you consider necessary for headaches or altitude sickness, as well as band-aids for wounds or blisters. It is important to have a flashlight with batteries, especially for the last day, because we will wake up at 4:00 am. If you want to visit some communities, it would be a nice gesture to bring pencils, colors, pens, notebooks, or books that you would like to donate. Don’t forget to bring a good camera with a charged battery, as well as sunglasses, a hat, and sunscreen.
It is important to acclimatize before starting the trek, arriving in Cusco 2 or 3 days in advance. Pills for altitude sickness also help and are widely used by tourists. You should drink plenty of water to hydrate the body, especially coca tea. It is important to eat light, that is, meals that are easy to digest, such as soups, vegetables, and carbohydrates that are not fried. Sleep as much as you can and you will feel much better. Keep your body warm and don’t forget to eat before you feel hungry, drink before you feel thirsty, wrap up warm before you feel cold, and rest before you feel exhausted.
During the whole Salkantay Trek 2 Days, you will travel with experienced and trained guides to assist you in any situation, ask all the questions you need to ask to be prepared, and have the best experience in the Salkantay trek!
Of course! During the Classic Inca trail to Machu Picchu, your main luggage can be stored at our office or at your hotel, whichever is more convenient for you. Please only pack what you will need for the trek!
FIRST, To book your adventure to Machu Picchu, select the tour or trek you would like to do and click BOOK NOW. Fill out a form with your personal information, after completing the form click on SENT YOU RESERVATION button, then we will send you by e-mail a payment link of US$ 200 plus the 5% commission per bank transaction.
Please be ready with the following information (FROM EACH PARTICIPANT in your group). We cannot purchase to Machu Picchu permits and entrance tickets without the following information:
Personal information (your full name, exactly as on your passport):
Gender
Passport number
D.OB. (dd / mm / yyyy)
Nationality
*** We require clear photos of each participants’ passport at the booking.
SECOND, we require a deposit of US$ 200 per person in order to purchase permits for the Tour or Trek to Machu Picchu.
the fastest ways to send and receive money with fairly low fees, are through:
machupicchutrekking.pe@gmail.com
WHAT ABOUT THE BALANCE?
The balance, to avoid the high credit card fees in Peru, you may pay IN CASH at our office with (US dollars or Peruvian soles) here in Cusco. There are many ATM within the historical center to withdraw money. You can also pay by your CREDIT CARD but you will have to pay a 5% service fee, to the iZipay collection company.
Yes! You have to bring your original passport and it is very important that it is the same passport number, you sent to us to book your 5-Day Salkantay Hiking to Machu Picchu permit. Your passport will be checked when you enter Machu Picchu, when you board the train. In case, you are renewing your passport, go ahead and send us a copy of your old passport to secure your permit and we can change it when you get your new passport. If so, please send us a copy of your new passport as soon as possible.
"We look forward to meeting you"
How many days do I need to acclimate myself in Cusco before the trek?
We recommend that you spend at least 2 to 3 days in the city of Cusco to help acclimate yourself and to avoid possible problems associated with altitude sickness during your trip. If you have already been to another destination with a high altitude before arriving to Cusco, we still recommend that you spend a full day in Cusco to rest, recuperate from your trip, and to enjoy the beautiful views of the city before departing for your trek.
What is the weather like in Salkantay?
In general Salkantay is known for its unpredictable weather, so no matter what time of year please come prepared for both warm and cold temperatures, and rainy and dry conditions. It helps to know what season you’re traveling in though and Salkantay experiences two main seasons, the rainy season (November-March) and the dry season (April-October).
During the rainy, warmer season temperatures average around 15°C / 60°F during the day and 5°C / 40°F at night. However, with a high chance of rain and wind at the Salkantay Pass, these temperatures may feel colder to you.
During the dry season the weather is sunny and clear and on average 20° C / 70 °F during the day but much colder at night, around -3 °C / 26 °F.
Also, after the second day, as we descend into the Peruvian Amazon basin, the weather changes to a more humid and warmer climate and these humid temperatures are consistent throughout the year.
What clothes do I need?
We recommend two long-sleeve trekking shirts, two short-sleeve shirts, leggings or trekking pants, shorts, four pairs of underwear, sweatpants for the night, three pairs of hiking socks, a rain poncho, an insulated jacket for the Salkantay Pass, gloves, beanie, a hat with a brim, hiking boots, a bathing suit (if you plan to visit the hot springs), and slip on sandals to rest your feet at the campsites.
What bags should I pack?
On the Salkantay Trek you will be permitted one personal daypack (a 30 to 50 L backpack is sufficient) and before your trek we will give you and one extra duffle bag from our office which can be used to carry your extra clothes and personal items.
What is the weight limit for my duffle bag?
Your weight limit for the duffel bag is 5kg/11.03lbs. The mules will carry your duffle bag along with food and camping equipment. It is important to note that you will not have access to your clothing items in this bag until the end of each day, as the muleteers and hor ses will always be in front of the group. So, put the items you'll need immediately in your backpack and put the items you won't need until the evening in your duffle bag.
How many meals are included?
The Salkantay 5D/4N Trek includes 4 breakfasts, 4 lunches, and 4 dinners. The only meals not included are breakfast on the first day and lunch/dinner on the last day after the tour of Machu Picchu.
What type food is served on the trek?
We serve a variety of traditional Peruvian dishes including rice, chicken, beef, fish, pasta, salad, potatoes, eggs, pancakes, bread, and for lunch and dinner each meal begins with a soup.
Do you offer vegetarian/vegan options?
Yes, vegetarian/vegan options are available. Let us know before your trek so we can accommodate and inform your chef.
Do you rent sleeping bags?
Yes, you can rent sleeping bags from our office for 15 USD. They are down feather sleeping bags that work in temperatures as low as -10°C.
Do you rent walking sticks?
Yes, you can rent a pair of walking sticks from our office for 10 USD.
Can I leave extra luggage in your office?
Yes, you can leave extra luggage in our office free of charge.
What are the sleeping conditions like at the campsites?
We currently have ANDEAN HUTS and IGLOO DOMES in each campsite. Them have a 4-person capacity but we only use them for 2 or 3 people per HUT and DOMES. We also include sleeping pads and pillow in all the HUTS and DOMES.
In Aguas Calientes you will sleep in a hotel.
What hostel does MACHUPICCHU TREKKING PERU Adventures use in Aguas Calientes?
If you have booked directly through MACHUPICCHU TREKKING PERU, we partner with THAIS HOUSE, MAQTAS HOUSE or SOL DE LOS ANDES INN (close from the main square), the hotels have hot showers, wifi, and comfortable beds.
What are the minimum and maximum group sizes?
The minimum group size is 2 people and the maximum group size is 14 people.
What do you recommend to help alleviate altitude sickness?
Firs of all we recomend to hidratate, Chew coca leaves, drink coca tea or manzanilla tea (for stomach aches) at your campsites, and ask your guide for assistance. They are trained professionals equipped with the necessary aids to alleviate any discomfort associated with the altitude. They carry coca leaves, agua florida, and extra oxygen bottles.
Do I need hiking experience to complete this trek?
Prior hiking experience is recommended but not required. Our guides are trained to assist hikers of all fitness levels and all trekking experience levels so you will never be left behind. Most important of all is to acclimate yourself to the altitude before your trek.
If I need a break from walking during the trek, is there an option to take a horse?
Yes, on the second day during the assent from the Soraypampa campsite to the Salkantay Pass there is an option to rent a horse for 120 soles for the two-hour assent. Ask your guide for assistance, the horse can be rented at the Salkantaypampa property.
How much money should I bring with me?
For additional expenses along the route, we recommend bringing 300 soles (though you most likely won’t spend it all) and in small bills too to be used at the campsites and along the trek.
What additional expenses should I expect during the trek?
Bathrooms are free at the campsites but cost 1 sol along the route
Hot shower at the Chaullay campsite (10 soles)
Round trip transportation to the Cocalmayo hot springs in Santa Teresa (40 soles)
Entrance ticket to the Cocalmayo hot springs (10 soles)
Zipline on day 3 of the Salkantay 5D/4N Trek (20 USD at our office, 30 USD by booking at the camp)
Zipline on day 4 of the Salkantay 5D/4N Trek (20 USD in our office, 30 USD to book at the campsite)
Optional bus that runs between Aguas Calientes and Machu Picchu entrance (12 USD one way, 24 USD roud trip)
Food/souvenirs in Aguas Calientes.
Note: Aguas Calientes is an expensive town, expect to pay 30 soles per meal.
Tips for guide, horsemen, and cooks.
What is the difference between the 5-day Salkantay trek and the 4-day Salkantay trek?
Both treks follow the same route up until day 3. After lunch on the 3rd day in our camp la Playa Sahuayaco, The 5 Days Salkantay trekkers go to do Zip line, then take a 1hour bus to Santa Teresa where is Cocalmayo Hot Springs, in the evening we come back to our camp site to spend the night in our sky huts.
After lunch on the 3rd day in Playa Sahuayaco, the 4 Day Salkantay Hikers take a bus from the lunch spot to Hidroeléctrica. In Hidroeléctrica they will walk three hours to Aguas Calientes where they will spend the night in a hostel.
Also, the Salkantay Trek 4D/3N covers a total distance of 60 km/ 37 miles and the Salkantay 5D/4N trek covers 72 km/ 45 miles.
Is my ticket to Machu Picchu included in the price?
Yes, the entrance ticket to Machu Picchu is included in all of our Salkantay tour packages.
How many hours do we spend in Machu Picchu?
In total you are permitted 3 hours in the park. The guided tour of Machu Picchu is approximately 2 hours after the tour you have 1 hour of free time to further explore the ruins on your own. KEEP IN MIND that regulations have changed and the tour in Machu Picchu is all a one-way path. That is, you cannot backtrack and revisit sites once you have passed them. In addition, once you exit the park you cannot re-enter. Therefore, take your time completing the route in Machu Picchu.
If I don’t want to hike to Machu Picchu from Aguas Calientes, can I take a bus?
Yes there the option to take the bus that runs between Machu Picchu and Aguas Calientes. It is 12 USD one-way and 24 USD for there and back. Tickets can be purchased in Aguas Calientes, ask your guide for further assistance when you arrive.
When do I reserve Huayna Picchu Mountain or Machu Picchu Mountain?
First, send us an email asking about availability. Then, if is available, select which mountain you would like to climb when you make your reservation online. Huayna Picchu and Machu Picchu Mountain are an additional 65 USD each.
What is Huayna Picchu Mountain?
Huayna Picchu Mountain is home to the Temple of the Moon and is the famous mountain peak seen behind the ruins in all the classic photos of Machu Picchu. Huayna Picchu is an approximately 45 minute climb with more ruins at the top and an incredible view of the Machu Picchu ruins down below. In total the visit to Huayna Picchu is approximately 2 hours. Huayna Picchu Mountain is an additional $65 USD.
What is the difference between Machu Picchu and Machu Picchu Mountain?
Machu Picchu refers to the ruins, which you will already have an entrance ticket to and will visit on a guided tour. Machu Picchu Mountain is an additional hike within Machu Picchu that offers a much higher view of the ruins and overlooks the entire valley. Machu Picchu Mountain is an additional $65 USD.
In the case of an emergency and I need to return to Cusco during the trek, what is the process?
If at any point you need to return to Cusco during your trek, MACHUPICCHU TREKKING PERU is not responsible for any refund and/or extra expenses for your return to Cusco. There are plenty of transportation options available at each campsite should a return be necessary. Ask your guide for further assistance.
What are your cancellation and refund policies?
Once you have made your reservation and initial deposit, you can cancel your trip at any time however we cannot refund your 50% deposit. One month before your trek, if you have already made your full payment and you decide to cancel, we can only refund 50% of your payment as your tickets to Machu Picchu and transportation tickets back to Cusco have already been purchased by this time and cannot be returned.
How do I make my reservation?
To book your adventure to Machu Picchu, select the tour or trek you would like to do and click BOOK NOW. Fill out a form with your personal information, after completing the form click on SENT YOU RESERVATION button, then we will send you by e-mail a payment link of US$ 200 plus the 5% commission per bank transaction.
I’ve made my reservation, now what?
Congratulations, adventure awaits you! Before your trek, please stop by our office in Cusco at 399 Santa Teresa Street to complete the second half of your payment in cash or with card (can be paid in dollars or soles) and to receive a briefing on your trek with your guide.
GROUP SERVICES hotel***
door to door sevices
Groups of 5 or more receive a $20 USD discount per person.
PRIVATE SERVICES: (min: 1 Pax – Max: 10 Pax)
door to door sevices - panoramic train - hotel***
To book the 5-Day Classic Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu | all inclusive, you need to make an initial payment of US$ 300 per person, the remaining balance can be paid online, in installments, or at our Cusco office with any credit card.
DISCOUNTS.
ADDITIONAL OPTION THAT YOU CAN ADD TO YOUR SALKANTAY TREK
Wayna Picchu and Machu Picchu Mountain are optional treks within Machu Picchu Citadel which do not include a guide. The climb is usually done on your own after your tour of Machu Picchu Citadel. If you would like the extra hike to be guided, please request in advance. There is an extra cost for this extra guided tour.
There are several extensions you can include to your 5-Day Salkantay trek. (group services)
It is important to acclimatize for at least 2 days and for this we recommend the following tours:
Day tours to do before your 5-Day Salkantay Trek
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