5 Days – Salkantay Trek

The Salkantay Trek is a captivating 5-day hiking adventure that whisks adventurers through the awe-inspiring Andes mountains. Boasting a well-planned itinerary, trekkers can look forward to exploring Humantay Lake, marveling at the iconic Machu Picchu, and enjoying comfortable accommodations in cozy lodges and Andean huts. With meals provided and expert guides fluent in English and Spanish, this trek offers a seamless and worry-free experience. But what truly sets this trek apart is the chance to take in the raw, untamed beauty of the Peruvian wilderness – an opportunity that shouldn’t be missed.

Key Points

• The Salkantay Trek is a 5-day hiking adventure through the Andes mountains, starting from Cusco and ending at Machu Picchu.
• The trek includes highlights like visiting Humantay Lake, ascending the Salkantay Pass, and exploring the subtropical jungle.
• Accommodations range from Salkantay Sky Lodge, Andean huts, and a hotel in Aguas Calientes, with meals and snacks provided.
• The tour includes professional guides, support staff, and emergency equipment to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.
• Optional activities like zipline and climbing Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain are available at an additional cost.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Overview and Booking Information

The Salkantay Trek is a 5-day hiking adventure that takes adventurers on a stunning journey through Peru’s Andes mountains.

Priced from K15,481 per person, this private group experience features a free cancellation policy up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Travelers can reserve their spot and pay nothing today, with a live tour guide available in Spanish and English.

The trek’s duration is 5 days, offering an immersive experience through the breathtaking landscapes of the region.

Whether seeking an unforgettable outdoor adventure or a chance to explore the cultural richness of Peru, the Salkantay Trek promises an unforgettable journey.

Itinerary Highlights

The 5-day Salkantay Trek offers an exhilarating itinerary filled with diverse landscapes and culture.

On Day 1, hikers will depart Cusco at 5:00 am, stopping in Mollepata for breakfast before trekking to Soraypampa. They’ll hike to the stunning Humantay Lake before lunch.

The second day begins with an early start, as trekkers ascend to the Salkantay Pass at 4,620 meters. They’ll then descend to the Chaullay campsite.

Day 3 takes hikers through the subtropical jungle to Sahuayaco-La Playa.

The fourth day includes an optional zipline activity and a hike to Aguas Calientes.

The final day culminates with a guided tour of the iconic Machu Picchu.

Accommodation and Meals

As part of the Salkantay Trek experience, participants are provided with comfortable accommodations and satisfying meals throughout the 5-day journey.

The trek includes 1 night at the Salkantay Sky Lodge, 1 night in Andean huts, and 1 night at a hotel in Aguas Calientes. All accommodations are double occupancy.

Trekkers also enjoy 3 breakfasts, 3 lunches, and 3 dinners, with vegetarian options available. Snacks are provided on the first three days.

The trek’s caterers ensure participants are well-fueled for the physical demands of the hike.

Transportation and Logistics

Beginning the 5-day Salkantay Trek, participants are provided with hotel pick-up in Cusco.

They’ll then travel to Mollepata for breakfast before embarking on a 3-hour trek to the Soraypampa campsite.

On subsequent days, meals are included, with breakfast served early each morning to fuel the hikes.

Trekkers will ascend to the Salkantay Pass, descend through subtropical jungle, and reach the hydroelectric plant before finally arriving in Aguas Calientes.

A tourist train then takes them back to Ollantaytambo.

Optional activities like ziplining and visits to Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain are also available for an additional cost.

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Guide and Support Services

Professional guides accompany participants throughout the Salkantay Trek, providing expertise in both English and Spanish. They lead the group, sharing their knowledge of the region’s history, culture, and flora and fauna.

The guides ensure the safety and well-being of the trekkers, managing the pace, breaks, and navigation. They also coordinate the support staff, including mule handlers who transport the tents, food, and personal belongings.

First aid kits with emergency oxygen are available, should any medical needs arise. The guides are dedicated to creating a memorable and enjoyable experience for all participants, catering to individual needs and ensuring a smooth journey along the Salkantay Trail.

Entrance Fees and Activities

The Salkantay Trek includes entrance fees to all the major sites along the route, including the iconic Machu Picchu. This ensures travelers can fully explore these remarkable destinations without worrying about additional costs.

The trek also offers several optional activities, such as:

1. Climbing Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain for breathtaking views ($25 USD each).
2. Taking a bus from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu ($12 USD).
3. Renting a sleeping bag for the trek ($15 USD each).
4. Enjoying meals not included in the package on Day 1 and Day 4.

These optional activities allow travelers to customize their experience and make the most of their time on the Salkantay Trek.

Optional Costs and Extras

While the Salkantay Trek includes a comprehensive set of inclusions, there are a few optional costs and extras travelers may want to consider.

These include the entrance fees to Huayna Picchu and Machu Picchu Mountain, which cost $25 USD each. Plus, travelers will need to cover the cost of breakfast on Day 1, as well as lunch and dinner on Day 4.

Rental of a sleeping bag is also available at $15 USD. Finally, bus tickets for the journey from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu cost $12 USD.

Cancellation and Refund Policy

According to the information provided, travelers can reserve their spot on the Salkantay Trek and pay nothing today.

The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. This allows travelers flexibility in their plans.

The key points regarding the cancellation and refund policy are:

1. Reserve now and pay later to secure your spot.
2. Cancel up to 24 hours before the tour for a full refund.
3. This free cancellation policy provides peace of mind when booking.
4. Travelers can fully recoup their investment if their plans change.

This flexible cancellation policy is a valuable feature of the Salkantay Trek tour.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Should I Pack for the Salkantay Trek?

For the Salkantay Trek, travelers should pack warm layers, sturdy hiking boots, rain gear, sun protection, a water bottle, snacks, a headlamp, and personal toiletries. Bringing a sleeping bag and trekking poles can also be helpful for the 5-day adventure.

How Difficult Is the Salkantay Trek?

The Salkantay Trek is a moderately challenging hike that requires a good level of physical fitness. It involves steep ascents, high-altitude passes, and long hiking days, but the stunning landscapes and cultural experiences make it a rewarding trek for experienced trekkers.

Can I Book the Trek for a Group?

Yes, you can book the Salkantay Trek for a private group experience. The tour offers a group option where you can reserve the trek and pay later without any upfront costs. There’s free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

How Do I Prepare Physically for the Trek?

To physically prepare for the Salkantay Trek, one should focus on improving cardiovascular fitness, strengthening leg muscles, and building endurance through regular hiking and exercising. Proper training and preparation are key to ensuring a successful and enjoyable trekking experience.

What Is the Weather Like During the Salkantay Trek?

The weather during the Salkantay Trek can vary significantly. Trekkers can expect cool to cold temperatures, especially at higher elevations, with the possibility of rain, snow, and wind. Preparing for diverse conditions is key to enjoying the trek comfortably.

Recap

The Salkantay Trek offers an exhilarating and well-planned hiking adventure through the stunning Andes mountains. Trekkers can enjoy a worry-free experience with comfortable accommodations, expert guides, and flexible booking options. This 5-day trek provides the opportunity to explore the breathtaking Humantay Lake and the iconic Machu Picchu, making it an unforgettable journey for any adventurer.

You can check if your dates are available here: