5-Day Route Along the Salkantay Trail

The Salkantay Trail is a renowned trekking route in the Peruvian Andes, offering adventurers a chance to enjoy the region’s stunning natural beauty. This 5-day itinerary promises an unforgettable experience, guiding participants through verdant valleys, past glacial lakes, and to the awe-inspiring ruins of Llactapata. With a focus on responsible tourism and cultural exchange, the journey culminates in a visit to the iconic Machu Picchu, leaving trekkers with a deeper appreciation for the rich history and traditions of the Andes. Whether you’re an experienced hiker or seeking a new challenge, this trek is sure to leave a lasting impression.

Key Points

• The 5-day Salkantay Trail trek covers a captivating route featuring stunning landscapes, including Humantay lagoon and Llactapata ruins, culminating in a guided tour of Machu Picchu.
• The trek package includes pickup, Spanish-speaking guide, camping equipment, accommodations, meals, entrance fees, and the guided Machu Picchu tour, costing $406.00 per person.
• The experience highlights include turquoise waters of Humantay lagoon, dramatic scenery of the Santa Teresa valley, and immersive trekking through the Peruvian Andes.
• The daily itinerary involves hiking to Humantay lagoon, crossing the Salkantay Pass, visiting Cocalmayo Hot Springs, and exploring the Llactapata ruins before reaching Machu Picchu.
• The tour provides a mix of cozy camping accommodations and a 2-star hotel stay, with all necessary permits and entrance fees included in the overall cost.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Overview and Pricing

The Salkantay Trail route is a 5-day hiking experience that costs $406.00 per person.

This route offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, and a "Reserve now & pay later" option is available.

The tour includes pickup and transfer, a Spanish-speaking guide, camping equipment, accommodations, meals, entrance fees, and a guided tour of Machu Picchu.

Visitors can explore captivating landmarks like the Humantay lagoon and Llactapata ruins, as well as enjoy spectacular views of snow-capped peaks.

With a live tour guide available in English and Spanish, this Salkantay Trail route provides a comprehensive and immersive trekking experience in the Peruvian Andes.

Experience Highlights

The Salkantay Trail route offers a captivating journey through the Peruvian Andes, with highlights that immerse visitors in the region’s natural wonders.

Explorers will be awestruck by the breathtaking Humantay lagoon, its turquoise waters reflecting the surrounding snow-capped peaks. The trek also showcases the dramatic landscapes of the Santa Teresa valley, leading to the impressive Llactapata ruins.

The grand finale is a visit to the iconic Machu Picchu, one of the New Seven Wonders of the Modern World, where travelers can marvel at the Incan citadel’s architectural marvels and learn about its rich history during a guided tour.

Daily Itinerary

Over the course of the 5-day Salkantay Trail route, travelers embark on a captivating journey through the Peruvian Andes.

On the first day, they’re picked up from Cusco and travel to Mollepata for breakfast before hiking to the stunning Humantay lagoon and camping at Soraypampa.

The second day sees them climbing to the Salkantay Pass at 4,650 meters, then descending to Chaullay camp.

On day three, they travel to La Playa Sahuayaco and camp in Santa Teresa, with free time to enjoy the Cocalmayo Hot Springs.

The fourth day involves a hike to Llactapata, lunch at the Hidroeléctrica train station, and an overnight stay in Aguas Calientes.

Accommodations and Meals

Along the Salkantay Trail route, travelers enjoy a mix of cozy camping accommodations and one night in a 2-star hotel.

For 3 nights, they camp at scenic locations with breakfast provided. The camps offer basic facilities, with tents and sleeping bags included.

On the 4th night, guests stay at a 2-star hotel in Aguas Calientes, the town below Machu Picchu. This hotel stay provides a comfortable night’s rest before the tour of the ancient citadel.

Meals are also taken care of, with 4 lunches and 4 dinners included throughout the 5-day journey.

This combination of camping and hotel stay offers an immersive outdoor experience while providing necessary comforts along the way.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Transportation and Guides

Travelers on the Salkantay Trail route enjoy the convenience of pickup and transfer services by either car or minibus.

The trek is led by experienced, Spanish-speaking guides who provide valuable insights throughout the journey. Guests can expect the following:

• Attentive guides who assist with logistics and ensure a seamless experience
• Knowledgeable commentary on the region’s history, culture, and natural wonders
• Responsive communication to address any questions or concerns that arise
• Personalized attention to accommodate individual needs and preferences.

With the guidance of these skilled professionals, hikers can fully enjoy the beauty and wonder of the Salkantay Trail, creating cherished memories along the way.

Permits and Entrance Fees

Along With the transportation and guide services, the Salkantay Trail route requires visitors to secure necessary permits and pay entrance fees to access certain sites along the trek.

The entrance fee to the captivating Humantay lagoon is 20 S/ (approximately $5.40 USD) per person. Travelers will also need to pay an entrance and transportation fee of 25 S/ (around $6.80 USD) per person to visit the Santa Teresa hot springs.

At the culmination of the hike, participants must purchase a ticket to enter and explore the iconic Machu Picchu, one of the New Seven Wonders of the Modern World.

These permits and fees are included in the overall cost of the 5-day Salkantay Trail tour package.

Physical Fitness Requirements

To successfully complete the Salkantay Trail route, a moderate-to-high level of physical fitness is required. The hike involves strenuous uphill climbs, long descents, and traversing uneven terrain.

Participants should be able to:

• Carry a daypack weighing up to 7 kg for extended periods
• Hike for up to 8 hours per day over multiple consecutive days
• Endure significant elevation changes, including reaching a maximum altitude of 4,650 meters
• Handle the physical demands of camping and hiking in a remote, high-altitude environment

The trail isn’t recommended for those with limited hiking experience or medical conditions that could be exacerbated by the rigorous nature of the trek.

Booking and Cancellation Policy

Bookings for the Salkantay Trail route can be made online or through a travel agent. The cost per person is $406.00, and travelers can take advantage of the "Reserve now & pay later" option.

Customers have the flexibility to cancel their booking up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. This liberal cancellation policy provides peace of mind for those who may need to change their plans.

The tour operator aims to make the booking process as seamless as possible, allowing adventurers to focus on the incredible journey ahead along the Salkantay Trail.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Average Group Size for This Tour?

The tour group size varies, but it typically accommodates between 2 and 10 participants. The exact number may depend on the specific departure date and availability.

Can I Bring My Own Hiking Gear or Is It Provided?

The tour provider offers sleeping bags and backpacks for the trek, but hikers can bring their own hiking gear if they prefer. The tour includes the necessary equipment, but allows flexibility for those who want to use their own gear.

Are There Any Additional Costs Not Included in the Package?

The package includes most necessary items, but there may be some additional costs not covered, such as tips for the guide, personal expenses, and any optional activities like the Santa Teresa hot springs. Travelers should review the inclusions carefully.

Can I Extend My Stay in Aguas Calientes After the Tour?

Yes, travelers can extend their stay in Aguas Calientes after the tour. This can be arranged through the tour operator, who’ll provide information on lodging options and transportation back to Cusco at the end of the extended stay.

What Is the Weather Like During the Different Seasons?

The weather along the Salkantay Trail varies by season. Summers are generally dry and mild, with temperatures ranging from 15-25°C. Winters can be colder, with temperatures dropping below freezing at higher elevations and increased precipitation.

Recap

The Salkantay Trail trek offers an unforgettable journey through the stunning Peruvian Andes. Hikers will witness breathtaking landscapes, from turquoise lagoons to ancient ruins, culminating in a visit to the iconic Machu Picchu. Guided by experienced Spanish-speaking professionals, the 5-day adventure combines camping and hotel stays, providing a well-rounded experience. For those seeking an extraordinary hiking challenge amidst Peru’s dramatic scenery, the Salkantay Trail is an exceptional choice.

You can check if your dates are available here: