5 Day Trekking Salkantay Snow Peak Route to Machu Picchu From Cusco

The Salkantay Trek from Cusco to Machu Picchu offers adventurous trekkers an unparalleled experience. This 5-day journey through the Andes showcases the region’s stunning natural beauty, from snow-capped peaks to lush jungles. Guided excursions to sites like Huayracpampa Lake and Llactapata provide glimpses into the area’s ancient culture. While the trek presents a moderate challenge, the rewards of sleeping under the stars and ultimately reaching the iconic Machu Picchu make it a truly unforgettable experience. For those seeking an adventure that goes beyond the typical tourist trail, the Salkantay Trek is a must-consider option.

Key Points

• The Salkantay Trek is a 5-day trekking route from Cusco to Machu Picchu, offering a diverse landscape of snow-capped peaks, tropical jungle, and ancient ruins.
• The trek includes 4 days of guided hiking, with a memorable experience of sleeping under the stars at Huayracpampa Lake.
• The trek is of moderate difficulty, requiring strong physical fitness, and is best undertaken from April to November.
• The trek is limited to a maximum of 9 participants to ensure a personalized experience, with professional guides and assistant guides.
• The trek concludes with a train ride from Aguas Calientes to the Machu Picchu site, allowing for exploration of the iconic Inca citadel.

Overview of the Salkantay Trek

The Salkantay Trek is a popular 5-day trekking route that takes adventurers from Cusco to the iconic Machu Picchu.

This less-traveled path offers a quieter alternative to the famous Inca Trail. Hikers begin by taking a bus to Mollepata, then trek along the Salkantay mountain range, experiencing a diverse landscape including snow-capped peaks, tropical jungle, and ancient ruins.

Trekkers sleep under the stars in tents and the final leg includes a train ride to Aguas Calientes.

The trek is moderate in difficulty, recommended for those in good physical shape, and typically undertaken during the drier months of April through November.

Highlights of the Itinerary

Oftentimes, the Salkantay Trek’s itinerary delights adventurers with its captivating highlights.

Hikers will traverse the Salkantay trail for four days under the guidance of an expert. One of the standout experiences is sleeping under the stars at Huayracpampa Lake, with the majestic Salkantay Mountain as the backdrop.

Along the way, trekkers will encounter lush waterfalls as they make their way to the Colcapampa District.

The final leg of the journey includes a climb from Llucmabamba to Llactapata, offering breathtaking views of the iconic Machu Picchu.

These memorable moments truly make the Salkantay Trek a one-of-a-kind adventure.

Group Size and Trek Difficulty

This Salkantay Trek tour limits group size to a maximum of 9 participants, ensuring a personalized experience. For every 9 clients, there’s a professional guide and assistant guide to lead the way.

The trek is considered moderate in difficulty, so it’s recommended that participants maintain a strong level of physical fitness. A minimum of 2 people per booking is required, and the ideal travel period is from April to November – the rainy season from December to March is best avoided.

With careful planning and expert guidance, trekkers can expect an unforgettable journey through the snow-capped peaks, lush jungles, and ancient ruins en route to the iconic Machu Picchu.

Accommodation and Meals Included

During the 5-day Salkantay Trek, trekkers can expect comfortable accommodations and nourishing meals.

The trek includes 3 nights of accommodation in tents, with a kitchen tent and dining tent provided. Meals include 3 breakfasts, 4 lunches, and 3 dinners, as well as 3 tea times and 4 snack breaks.

All meals are prepared by the trek’s kitchen staff using fresh, local ingredients. Hikers can look forward to warm, hearty dishes that refuel them after each day’s trek.

With these amenities, trekkers can focus on enjoying the stunning Andean landscapes without worrying about their basic needs.

Transportation and Logistical Details

The trek begins with a bus transfer from Cusco to the trailhead in Mollepata, where the hiking portion commences.

From there, trekkers follow the Salkantay trail, traversing stunning landscapes that range from snow-capped mountains to lush tropical jungles.

Throughout the journey, an expert guide and assistant lead the small group, providing invaluable support and local insights.

At the end of the trek, hikers take a train from the town of Aguas Calientes to reach the iconic Machu Picchu site.

The logistics are thoughtfully arranged to ensure a seamless and immersive experience, allowing trekkers to fully appreciate the natural and cultural wonders along the way.

Important Health Considerations

Physical fitness is key for this moderate-level trek. Trekkers should be prepared to hike 4-8 hours per day, with substantial elevation gains and descents. Those with pre-existing medical conditions should consult their doctor before booking. Altitude sickness is a serious concern, so proper acclimatization is essential.

Symptom	Mild	Severe
Headache	Mild headache	Debilitating headache
Nausea	Mild nausea	Severe nausea, vomiting
Fatigue	Mild fatigue	Extreme fatigue
Dizziness	Mild dizziness	Inability to walk

Staying hydrated, resting, and descending to lower elevations can help manage altitude symptoms. Trekkers should bring any necessary medications and be prepared for emergencies.

Preparing for the Trek

Proper preparation is crucial for successfully completing the 5-day Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu. Trekkers should ensure they’ve the right gear, including:

• High-quality hiking boots with good traction and ankle support
• Breathable, layered clothing to adapt to changing weather conditions
• A warm sleeping bag and insulating layers for the chilly nights
• Sun protection like hats, sunglasses, and sunscreen
• Trekking poles to ease the strain on joints during ascents and descents

Fitness is also essential, as the trek involves several hours of moderate to strenuous hiking each day.

Prospective trekkers should train by incorporating cardiovascular exercise and strength training into their routine in the weeks leading up to the trek.

Exploring Machu Picchu

Upon reaching Machu Picchu, visitors can explore the iconic Inca citadel and enjoy its captivating history. The new visitor circuits at Machu Picchu offer enhanced experiences and preserve the site’s integrity. Visitors can follow specific routes to discover the ancient ruins, temples, and plazas that make this UNESCO World Heritage site so remarkable.

Top Attractions	Must-See Spots
Intihuatana	Temple of the Sun
Inca Bridge	Funerary Rock
Royal Sector	Ceremonial Plaza

With the guidance of knowledgeable local experts, trekkers can explore the rich cultural heritage of this magnificent Inca wonder, leaving with a deeper appreciation for the ingenuity and resilience of the Inca civilization.

Recap

The Salkantay Trek offers an unforgettable journey through the Andes, culminating in the awe-inspiring experience of Machu Picchu. Trekkers will be rewarded with stunning landscapes, immersive cultural encounters, and the sense of accomplishment that comes with completing this challenging yet rewarding route. For adventurous travelers seeking an off-the-beaten-path experience, the Salkantay Trek is a must-consider option on the path to Machu Picchu.