5-Day Trek From Salkantay to Machupicchu Sky Lodge Dome

Embark on an unforgettable 5-day trek from Salkantay to Machu Picchu, staying in luxurious sky lodge domes along the way. Traverse original Inca trails, savoring breathtaking views of the Salkantay and Tucarhuay mountains with the guidance of a professional bilingual guide. This adventure culminates in a tour of the iconic Machu Picchu, revealing the ancient Inca civilization’s remarkable history and architectural feats. With delicious meals, comfortable accommodations, and the thrill of camping in geodesic domes, this trek promises to be an unforgettable experience. But what surprises await as you traverse this iconic Peruvian landscape?

Key Points

• A 5-day guided trek from Salkantay to Machu Picchu, with scenic mountain views, original Inca trails, and an overnight stay in luxury geodesic domes.
• The trek includes transportation, meals, first-aid support, and a guided tour of the ancient Inca citadel of Machu Picchu.
• The highest pass at 4,650 meters offers panoramic vistas of snow-capped Salkantay and Tucarhuay mountains, followed by a descent into lush jungle.
• The trek follows the footsteps of the Inca through traditional Andean villages, showcasing the intricate stone pathways and staircases of the Inca Empire.
• The final day includes a guided exploration of Machu Picchu’s iconic structures, such as the Temple of the Sun and Intihuatana, with breathtaking views of the Urubamba River and Andean peaks.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Trek Overview and Highlights

The 5-day trek from Salkantay to Machu Picchu offers a captivating adventure for outdoor enthusiasts. Priced at K₽13,462 per person, this small-group tour (limited to 15 participants) provides an immersive experience with a live English and Spanish-speaking guide.

Trekkers will witness the majestic Salkantay and Tucarhuay mountains, follow original Inca trails, and ultimately reach the iconic Machu Picchu. The itinerary includes stops at scenic vantage points, a coffee process experience, and accommodations ranging from comfortable geodesic domes to a hostel in Aguas Calientes.

With essential inclusions like transportation, meals, and first-aid support, this trek promises an unforgettable journey through Peru’s stunning landscapes.

Itinerary Breakdown

On the first day, travelers are picked up from their hotel and take a bus to the town of Mollepata. After breakfast, they’re transported to Challacancha where the trek begins.

The second day takes them to the highest pass at 4,650 meters, offering stunning views of snow-capped mountains. They camp at Chaullay that night.

The third day leads them through the high jungle to El Cafetal, where they’ll camp in geodesic domes and learn about coffee processing.

On the fourth day, they walk to Llactapata, enjoy Urubamba Valley views, and reach Aguas Calientes for an overnight stay.

Inclusions and Accommodations

This trek includes an array of valuable inclusions to enhance the overall experience.

Participants will have the services of a professional bilingual guide, with hotel pickup and transportation provided. The journey includes a train ride from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo.

Meals are covered, with 4 breakfasts, 4 lunches, and 4 dinners, as well as snacks. Accommodation is in luxury domes with private bathrooms, except for one night in an Aguas Calientes hostel.

Additional support includes horsemen, mules for luggage, a first aid kit, and trekking poles.

With these comprehensive inclusions, trekkers can focus on seeing the stunning natural landscapes and historical wonders along the way.

Important Requirements and Information

Careful planning and preparation are essential for this Salkantay to Machu Picchu trek. The tour isn’t suitable for everyone – it’s not recommended for pregnant women, those with heart issues, or wheelchair users.

Travelers must bring the right gear, including:

1. Sturdy hiking shoes
2. Sunglasses, sun hat, and sunscreen
3. Warm layers, rain gear, and a towel
4. Passport/ID, cash, and a daypack

Cancellation is flexible, with full refunds available up to 24 hours in advance.

While challenging, this trek offers breathtaking views and the chance to explore the iconic Machu Picchu. Proper preparation ensures an unforgettable experience.

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Reservation and Payment Options

Travelers can reserve their spot for this Salkantay to Machu Picchu trek without any upfront payment. The reservation process is flexible, allowing customers to check availability for their preferred start times and group sizes. Once a reservation is made, the cancellation policy provides ample flexibility in adjusting travel plans, with a full refund available up to 24 hours in advance.

Option	Description	Price
Reserve Now, Pay Later	Secure your spot without upfront payment	K₽13,462
Full Upfront Payment	Pay the full amount to confirm your booking	K₽13,462
Student Discount	Receive a discount with valid student ID	K₽12,462
Private Group Booking	Book the entire trek for your group	K₽60,000
Last-Minute Availability	Check for any last-minute openings	K₽13,462

Salkantay Mountain Views

The towering Salkantay and Tucarhuay mountains dominate the landscape throughout the 5-day trek. Reaching heights of over 15,000 feet, these majestic peaks offer breathtaking vistas at every turn.

Some of the highlights include:

1. The dramatic ascent to the highest pass, where hikers are rewarded with panoramic views of snow-capped summits.

2. The descent into the lush, high-altitude jungle, with the mountains framing the distant horizon.

3. The glimpse of the iconic Inca Trail, winding through the rugged terrain.

4. The final approach to Machu Picchu, with the Salkantay looming overhead, setting the stage for the grand reveal of the ancient citadel.

Inca Trail Experience

Along the 5-day trek, hikers traverse the original Inca Trail, a remarkable feat of ancient engineering that winds through the rugged Andes.

Trekkers marvel at the intricate stone pathways and staircases constructed by the Inca Empire centuries ago. The trail offers stunning views of snow-capped peaks and lush cloud forests.

Hikers ascend to the highest pass at 4,650 meters, where they’re rewarded with panoramic vistas of the majestic Salkantay and Tucarhuay mountains.

As they descend, they follow in the footsteps of the Inca, passing through traditional Andean villages and reaching the awe-inspiring ruins of Machu Picchu, the "Lost City of the Incas".

Machu Picchu Tour

Arriving at the iconic Machu Picchu, trekkers embark on an enlightening guided tour of the ancient Inca citadel. The experience offers a window into the remarkable engineering and cultural achievements of the Inca civilization.

Highlights include:

1. Exploring the iconic stone structures, such as the Temple of the Sun and the Intihuatana, which align with astronomical events.

2. Marveling at the precision and scale of Machu Picchu’s construction, utilizing intricate stone masonry without the use of mortar.

3. Learning about the site’s role as a royal estate, religious sanctuary, and astronomical observatory for the Inca.

4. Enjoying breathtaking vistas of the Urubamba River and the surrounding Andean peaks that create a dramatic natural backdrop.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Do I Acclimatize Before the Trek?

To acclimatize before the trek, it’s recommended to spend a few days in Cusco or the Sacred Valley. This allows the body to adjust to the high altitude and prevent altitude sickness during the hike.

What Is the Average Group Size on the Trek?

The trek has a small group size, limited to 15 participants. This allows for a more personalized and intimate experience with the live tour guide available in English and Spanish.

Can I Bring My Own Hiking Equipment?

Trekkers are welcome to bring their own hiking equipment for the Salkantay to Machu Picchu trek. The tour provides additional support gear, but using personal items is fine as long as they meet the essential requirements.

Is There an Option to Hire a Personal Porter?

Yes, the trek offers the option to hire a personal porter. Porters are available to carry participants’ luggage, allowing them to hike more comfortably. This service incurs an additional fee and must be arranged in advance.

How Can I Extend My Stay in Cusco After the Trek?

After the trek, travelers can extend their stay in Cusco by booking additional hotel nights or arranging private tours and activities in the region. Many tour operators offer post-trek extensions to explore Cusco’s historic sights and cultural attractions.

Recap

This thrilling 5-day trek from Salkantay to Machu Picchu offers a remarkable blend of natural splendor and Incan heritage. Travelers will be captivated by the breathtaking vistas of the Andes, the comfort of luxurious sky lodge domes, and the profound experience of exploring the legendary Machu Picchu. With a professional guide leading the way, this adventure promises an unforgettable journey through Peru’s stunning landscapes and ancient wonders.

You can check if your dates are available here: