Salkantay Trek 5 Days – Private.

(1 Review)
Price
From$650
Price
From$650
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+51 984751486

perutravelcompany@gmail.com

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Length

5 Days, 4Nights
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Group

Min 2, Max 16.
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Trip Style

Trekking, Aventure.
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Difficulty.

Moderate.
Overview

Discover the 5 Days Salkantay Trek which a journey of nature, culture, and personal discovery.
If you’re looking for a more meaningful and immersive experience than just a hike, the Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu might be exactly what you need.

This five-day adventure takes you off the beaten path into the heart of the Andes, where you’ll be surrounded by snow-capped peaks, crystal-clear lagoons, lush cloud forests, and the living traditions of local Andean communities.

Along the way, you’ll experience breathtaking scenery, diverse ecosystems, moments of quiet reflection, cultural connections, and personal growth. The journey concludes with a guided tour of the awe-inspiring Machu Picchu, a place as magical as the path that leads to it.

Highlights :

  • Llactapata Inca Site: Kick off your journey with a hike to the Llactapata ruins, perched at 2,700 meters (8,856 feet). Here, amid ancient Incan architecture, catch your initial, breathtaking glimpse of Machu Picchu’s distant silhouette. This early view sets an anticipatory tone for the adventure ahead, as you stand on the grounds that once buzzed with Incan activity.
  • Humantay Lagoon: Continue to the Humantay Lagoon, a jewel-like body of water nestled at the base of its namesake mountain. The lagoon’s strikingly vibrant turquoise waters provide a stunning contrast against the rugged backdrop, reflecting the dramatic peaks that surround it. This spot is perfect for contemplation and photography, capturing the essence of Andean beauty.
  • Salkantay Mountain: Ascend towards the formidable Salkantay Mountain, standing at 6,271 meters (20,569 feet), one of the highest peaks in the Andes. Trekking beneath Salkantay offers a profound sense of scale and the raw power of nature. This segment of the trek not only challenges your physical limits but also provides an unforgettable experience of walking beneath towering ice-clad peaks, enveloped in a cloak of clouds and alpine winds.
  • Diverse Landscapes: The trek takes you on a journey through an array of ecosystems, each distinct in flora, fauna, and climate. From lush cloud forests dripping with moss to arid mountainsides where cacti cling to life, your path unfolds through some of the most varied terrains on the planet. The trek provides continuous views of majestic landscapes, including the peaks of Apu Salkantay, Pumasillo, and Humantay Mountain, each contributing to the dramatic horizon.

Extra Hikes for an Unforgettable Experience after Machu picchu Tour:

Conquer the Huayna Picchu Mountain or Machu Picchu Mountain for an additional US$60.00 USD , offering unique perspectives of the ancient citadel.

Huaynapicchu Mountain: If you want to climb this mountain, you must book well in advance. The climb takes two hours there and back.
Machu picchu Mountain: if you want to climb You need to book in advance. its the highest mountain around Machu Picchu,for climbing takes 3 hours up and down.

 

Inclusions

  • Briefing before the trek: The tour guide will brief you the day before the excursion at around 7:00 p.m. Please let us know where you will be staying in Cusco.
  • Hotel Pickup: We will pick you up from your hotel starting at 4:30 a.m
  • Transportation from: Cusco to Challacancha (starting point).
  • Experienced and licensed Tour guide: Spanish, English and Quechua speaking guides will accompany you during the excursion, to immerse you in the history, culture and conclude 2 hours and 30 minutes guide tour in Machu picchu.
  • Entry tickets to the Salkantay Trek and Machu Picchu: Generally, the Machu Picchu entrance ticket is scheduled for 7:00 or 8:00 a.m.: CIRCUIT 02 (subject to availability) and, alternatively, CIRCUITS 01 and 03 (subject to availability). During the high season, tickets can be difficult to get, but don’t worry: we are here to help you get them in Aguas Calientes.
  • Muleteers & horses to carry: This experienced team will transport all necessary gear and supplies on horses or mules, so you can enjoy the trek without having to carry heavy loads.
  • Expert local chefs: We have experienced cooks trained in adventure and mountain cooking. We use new kitchen equipment and kitchenware, as well as a dining tent with portable chairs and tables.
  • Meals: Enjoy nutritious meals during the excursion (4 breakfasts, 4 lunches and 4 dinners), with a free vegetarian option upon request in advance.
  • Duffel Bag: At briefing or meeting one day before the trekking, you will be given a duffle bag in which you can put up to 5 kilos of your belongings. Our team will carry these duffels on horses during the trek, and you can get them at the campsites. This means you can hike comfy with just your daypack. When your trek ends and you return to Cusco, you must return them to our office or leave at hostel.
  • Acomodations day 1- Soraypampa: Glass cabins Stay in our amazing glass cabins designed for two people.
  • Acomodations day 2 and 3 - Colpapampa and Lucmabamba Domes:Enjoy the comfort of private domes for two people.
  • Acomodations day 4 - Aguas calientes Cozi hostel: . Stay in a comfortable hostel with Wi-Fi, a private bathroom, hot water, and breakfast. Upgrades to higher-quality hotels are available upon request.

Excludes

  • Food: Breakfast on the first morning and lunch on the last day after Machu Picchu.
  • Entrance ticket to humantay lagoon: On day one, you'll visit Humantay Lagoon. Entry costs 20 soles ($6) for foreigners and 10 soles ($3) for Peruvians, payable in cash to the local government in Mollepata.
  • Hot Springs: If you would like to relax in the thermal baths in Santa Teresa costs 50 soles in total, including round-trip transport (40 soles) and entrance (10 soles). You can decide and pay during the trek and at Aguas Calientes costs 20 soles in total, payable at the entrance.
  • Round Trip bus tickets from: Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu – Aguas Calientes. You can purchase them in Aguas Calientes or after visiting the site. Each way costs US$12. Alternatively, you can walk- it's about 1 hour and 30 minutes each way.
  • Drinking water: We don't provide water for refilling bottles, but we do provide cold or hot water during meals. You can buy water along the way at local shops. The price of a 2.5 litre bottle of water is between 5 and 12 soles. Alternatively, you can carry a filter or purification tablets for mountain water.
  • Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain Hike: $70 USD (optional, upon request). After the main tour, you can hike up Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain.
  • Sleeping bag: If you don't have a sleeping bag, you can rent one from us. The sleeping bags we have are specially designed to keep you warm during the trek, where temperatures can be as low as -10°C. The rental cost is 40 soles (10 dollars) for the whole trip.
  • Internet Conection: You won't get any mobile signal from 8:30 a.m. on the first day until the second day. if you need at first camp site internet access, you can get Wi-Fi for 10 soles. After the third day, you'll usually have mobile signal and internet access.
  • Gratuities for Guides and Staff: Tips for guides, drivers, horsemen, and staff are not included. Tipping is optional but appreciated. While the trek team may expect tips, it is entirely up to you. We want to emphasize that tipping is voluntary, not mandatory.
  • Travel Insurance: We would advise acquiring one in your country of residence, as obtaining travel insurance in Peru can be Difficult .

What to Bring:

  • Original passport:You can't use a copy of your passport; you need to make sure your original passport is valid for at least six months to enter and leave Peru. Also, make sure your passport has two blank pages for the stamps when you come in and out.
  • Student ID:This is only required if you have booked the Salkantay Trek as a student. You must have a student card issued by your university (up to the age of 25). It should contain the following details: university information, personal information, a student photo and a valid date no later than 31 December of the year of travel.
  • Good-quality daypack:It's really important to find a good backpack that's comfortable, light and small, to fill in and carry all your belonging.
  • Botle water or Camel Bag:The bottle needs to hold 2 litres of water. It is important to choose a water bottle that can keep your water cold.
  • Trekking poles:We really recommend them for the Salkantay Trek and they are very useful. You can rent them from us.
  • Sleeping bag:When you buy a sleeping bag find one that is big enough for you. and put it in a waterproof bag so it doesn't get wet on the hike. also we recommend sleeping bags that can keep you warm down to -10°C. You can also rent sleeping bags from us.
  • Emergency money:Please remember to bring extra money for any emergencies that might happen on the trip. is ideal to bring 300 soles/90 dollars and in cash.
  • Head lamp:This equipment is essential for anyone taking the Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu. You can also bring a torch.
Pricing

Important information: The published price of US$650.00 , includes return transportation by train .

To confirm your reservation: Payment and Reservation Policies.

We will not be able to book or confirm your excursion or trek without the following information:

We require a copy of each traveler’s passport. You can send it via WhatsApp to +51984751486 or email perutravelcompany@gmail.com.
A non-refundable deposit of US$200.00 plus a 6% fee (US$212.00 per person) is required. Please make deposits through by PayPal.

Note: The deposit for all our tours and treks of 2 days or more is US$200.00 (plus US$12 PayPal fee) per person.

The tour will not be confirmed without a completed booking form and deposit sent to Peru Travel. The deposit is US$200 per person and is non-refundable. We accept payments via PayPal, which charges a 6% fee, so the total per person is US$212 and should be sent to perutravelcompany@gmail.com. We will send you the invoice and confirmation of your booking via email once we receive your information and deposit.
 

 

What to Pack

1.Packing List

F.A.Q. ¿What should I pack in my backpack?
If you are travelling to a trekking destination, you should prepare your backpack and duffel bag in advance, especially for the Salkantay Trek. We recommend that you bring one or two large backpacks, depending on the length of your holiday. Carry only what you need for the 5 days of the trek, this means that any extra items or belongings you don’t need can be left at your hotel in Cusco or in our backpack storage room in Cusco.

2.what to pack in your personal Backpack?

During the days on the trek, Remember, you will be carrying your backpack with you for the entire trek, so you should carry a light, comfortable and good quality backpack. due to regulation issued by the local government, your backpack should not exceed 25 litres in sixe and large bags are not allowed  to be carried inside Machu picchu, if you have one make sure that your largae backpack looks as small as possicle to carry inside Machu picchu.

here, we give you the list of items which you have to carry in your personal backpack. 

Hats and sunglasses: The sun is intense at high altitude and you should protect your eyes from the glare. Wear one that offers UV protection and is comfortable.

Rain gear: The trail can be wet especially in the rainy season. Have quality gear and clothing with materials such as Gore-tex that will keep your skin dry while you perspire during the hike.

Warm clothing: During the Inca Trail, where the temperature fluctuates during the day and night, it is mandatory to have good clothing equipment such as: fleeces, long-sleeved shirts, down jackets and a waterproof layer.

Sunscreen: Choose a good sunscreen (high factor) and apply it before starting the hike and regularly during the day if you are sweating.

Hand sanitizer: Carry a good hand sanitizer to disinfect hands before eating, drinking and after using the bathroom. We recommend carrying a small bottle of hand sanitizer throughout the day.

Headlamp: carrying a headlamp is especially useful for those who hike the Inca Trail because it keeps your hands free for other tasks. It is useful to choose a headlamp for brightness, weight and comfort.

Snacks: bring snacks that are rich in energy and easy to digest. This, because chocolate bars or cookies are not ideal, as they can be heavy for the stomach and leave you with an impression of sluggishness, so we recommend taking granola bars or a mixture of nuts which will give enough energy to perform the walk.

Extra money: take money preferably in soles for drinks, tips and souvenirs: during the excursion you will find facilities or bathrooms where you will have to pay for the use of some of them, especially the first day.

3.What to pack in your personal Duffel bag?

Peru Travel Company will provide you with a duffel bag to pack your belongings that you don’t need during the day, the porters will carry the duffel bag, and please note that it must have a maximum weight of 7 Kg, including your sleeping bag and your air mattress (if you bring or rent one). The duffel bag will be provided to you one day before the trek at your hotels or our office.
Sleeping bag: if you don’t have one, you can rent it from us; also if you want to buy it it has to have the estimated weight of 2 kilos and remember to pack it in a plastic bag to keep it during the excursion, we recommend a -10°C sleeping bag.
Rain Gear: The trail can be wet especially in the rainy season. Have quality gear and clothing with materials such as Gore-tex that will keep your skin dry while you perspire during the hike
Warm jacket: The weather during the excursion fluctuates and can drop sharply during the day and night, so it is essential to bring layers of clothing for the sun and a waterproof outer layer in case of rain or snow
4 to 5 T-shirts: Absorbent T-shirts that dry quickly are recommended. Synthetic fabrics such as polyester or nylon are the best choice, as they will hold sweat and dry quickly, avoid cotton shirts as they retain moisture and cause chafing and are difficult to dry
2 to 3 trekking pants: there are a variety of types of trekking pants one of them is the cargo pants which have large pockets on the side of the legs and the convertible pants have legs that zipper at the knee, those are ideal especially in hot climates or changing conditions during the trail for women leggings or leggings work perfectly
4 pairs of underwear: wearing a sports bra and compression shorts will be helpful and keep you comfortable to avoid chafing. If you are hiking in cold weather, wear thermal underwear that will keep you warm
Snacks: bring snacks that are rich in energy and easy to digest. This, because chocolate bars or cookies are not ideal, as they can be heavy for the stomach and leave you with an impression of sluggishness, so we recommend taking granola bars or a mixture of nuts which will give enough energy to perform the walk
Extra money: take money preferably in soles for drinks, tips and souvenirs: during the excursion you will find facilities or bathrooms where you will have to pay for the use of some of them, especially the first day.

Itinerary

Day 1Cusco – Mollepata – Soraypampa

Early departure, our trip starts with an early pick up from your hotel between 04:30 and 05:00 to Mollepata, located at 2900 metres above sea level. After a short stop for breakfast (not included), we continue our 1 hour drive to Challacancha, located at 3380 metres above sea level, from where we begin the trek.

Hike to Laguna Humantay, Soraypampa camp at 3850m will be our resting place for lunch and after lunch. We will hike for one hour and thirty minutes to the impressive Huamantay Lagoon at 4200m and then descend for one hour and twenty minutes to the camp.

Relax in the afternoon: Enjoy tea and dinner, then settle into one of Soray Pampa’s comfortable cabins for the night.

  • Meals: Lunch, Dinner
  • Accommodation: Camping (double occupancy tents)
  • Altitudes: Max 3,800m, Min 3,350m
  • Distance: 19km
  • Difficulty: Moderate

Day 2Soraypampa – Salkantay Pass – Chaullay

Morning ritual, wake up with coca tea served outside the hut, followed by breakfast.

Ascent to Salkantay Pass, Begin the hike to the Salkantay Pass, located at 4,600 meters above sea level. Enjoy snacks while you immerse yourself in history and take in the stunning views of the surrounding peaks.

Descent to Chaullay: After the pass, we will descend for two hours to our lunch spot. Then, we will continue walking to Chaullay, located at 2900 meters above sea level, where we will camp and have dinner.

  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  • Accommodation: Camping (double occupancy tents)
  • Altitudes: Max 4,600m, Min 3,800m
  • Distance: 21km
  • Difficulty: Moderate

Day 3Chaullay – La Playa Sayhuyaco – Hot springs Cocalmayo.

After breakfast we begin a meandering descent through lush landscapes of fruit trees, coca and cacao plantations from Chawllay to Coca Camp. This picturesque hike takes about five hours and will give you an opportunity to appreciate the agricultural perspective of the region.

Upon arrival at the camp, you will be greeted by our talented chefs for a well-deserved and restorative lunch. After a short break, you will have the opportunity to take part in an enriching coffee tour, where you will learn all about the traditional coffee growing and production process.
 
In the afternoon you have the option to relax in the medicinal hot springs of Cocal Mayo, a perfect way to soothe your muscles after a day of trekking. Later, return to camp for a delicious dinner and spend the night in our comfortable cabins, ready to recharge your batteries for the next day’s adventure.
 
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  • Accommodation: Camping (double occupancy tents)
  • Altitudes: Max 3,300m, Min 2,100m
  • Distance: 11km
  • Difficulty: Moderate

Day 4Sayhuyacuy – Llaqtapata – Hydroelectric – Aguas Calientes Pueblo

The adventure starts early, at 5.30am, when our cooks serve you a cup of hot coca tea. After breakfast, you’ll set off on your trek at 6:30 a.m. You’ll hike about 3 hours along the Inca Trail to the impressive Inca site of Llactapata. Once there, you’ll enjoy stunning panoramic views of Machu Picchu and the surrounding sacred mountains.

After enjoying the magnificent scenery, you descend for two hours to the town of Hidroeléctrica, where you can enjoy a hearty lunch.

After your break, you will continue your adventure with a three-hour trek to the city of Aguas Calientes, where your hotel will be waiting for you. Upon arrival, you will be able to refresh yourself, explore the city and enjoy your free time.

After a short break, you will continue your adventure with a three hour trek to the city of Aguas Calientes, where your hotel will be waiting for you. Upon arrival, you will be able to refresh yourself, explore the city and enjoy your free time.

Dinner is at a local restaurant in Aguas Calientes at 19:00. This will be followed by a briefing about Machu Picchu excursion.

  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  • Accommodation: Hostel
  • Altitudes: Max 2,450m, Min 2,100m
  • Distance: 12km
  • Difficulty: Moderate

Day 5Aguas Calientes Pueblo – Machu Picchu – Cusco

Start your day early and head to majestic Machu Picchu for a unique experience. Take a guided tour of the ancient Inca citadel and discover the impressive temples, terraces and fascinating stone structures that make Machu Picchu one of the new Seven Wonders of the World.

After the guided tour, there will be free time to explore other corners of the site and enjoy the impressive views.

If you have pre-booked tickets to either Wayna Picchu or Machu Picchu mountain, you can hike and enjoy even more spectacular panoramic views.

After exploring, you will return to Aguas Calientes to take the train back to Ollantaytambo, where our driver will be waiting to take you back to Cusco.

  • Meals: Breakfast
  • Altitude: Max 2,450m
  • Distance: Minimal walking within Machu Picchu
Photos
FAQs

1.What is the altitude range and difficulty level for each day of the trek?

Throughout the trek, the altitude ranges from a maximum of 4,600m at Salkantay Pass to a minimum of 2,100m at Aguas Calientes Pueblo. The difficulty level is moderate for each day, with varying distances and altitudes to accommodate different fitness levels.

 

2.What type of accommodation is provided during the trek, and are there single occupancy options available?

Accommodation during the trek is camping in double occupancy tents, providing a shared experience with a trekking partner. Additionally, on the final night in Aguas Calientes Pueblo, accommodation is provided in a hostel. Single occupancy options may be available upon request, although they may incur additional charges.

 

3.Are meals included throughout the trek, and are there vegetarian/vegan options available?

Yes, meals are included throughout the trek, including breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Vegetarian and vegan options are typically available, and dietary preferences can be accommodated with prior notice.

 

4.Are there any optional activities available during the trek, and what are they?

Yes, there is an optional hike to the breathtaking Humantay Lagoon on Day 1, offering a unique opportunity to explore the natural beauty of the region. Additionally, on Day 5, there is the option to climb Huayna Picchu for a bird’s eye view of Machu Picchu.

 

5.How is transportation arranged back to Cusco after visiting Machu Picchu?

After visiting Machu Picchu on Day 5, transportation back to Cusco is typically arranged by train. Participants board a train in Aguas Calientes for the scenic journey back to Cusco, providing a comfortable and convenient way to conclude the trek.

 
1 Review
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Michael J.

Solo Traveller

This trek from Cusco to Machu Picchu exceeded all my expectations. Starting with an exciting drive to Abra Malaga and a thrilling downhill bike ride, the adventure was packed with stunning scenery and cultural insights. Each day’s hike presented new challenges and breathtaking views, especially the climb to the Salkantay Pass.

The journey through the jungle to La Playa and the tranquil hike along the train tracks to Aguas Calientes were highlights. The anticipation built perfectly to the grand finale at Machu Picchu. The guides were excellent, the accommodations were comfortable, and the experience was unforgettable. I highly recommend this tour to anyone looking to immerse themselves in the natural and historical beauty of Peru.

August 23, 2023