Embark on an unforgettable adventure through the breathtaking landscapes of Peru with the 8-Day Cusco and Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu. This comprehensive itinerary offers a personalized experience, starting with acclimatization in the vibrant city of Cusco before venturing into the Andes. Explore stunning cultural sites, discover the serene Humantay Lake, and conquer the majestic Salkantay Pass, all while enjoying the camaraderie of a small group. The journey culminates with an early visit to the iconic Machu Picchu, where travelers can enjoy the rich history of the Inca civilization. With practical considerations and comprehensive details, this trek promises an unforgettable adventure that will leave you captivated.
This experience made our list of the 2 Best Hiking And Trekking Tours In Machu Picchu.
Key Points
- This 8-day Cusco and Salkantay Trek package offers a comprehensive experience that includes accommodations, meals, transportation, and entrance fees.
- The trek explores stunning landscapes, ancient ruins, and diverse flora and fauna, with a maximum group size of 12 for a personalized experience.
- The itinerary includes visits to cultural sites like Chinchero, Moray, and Maras Salt Mines, as well as a trek to Humantay Lake and the highest point at 4,600 meters.
- The package includes an early visit to Machu Picchu, with an optional climb to Huayna Picchu for panoramic views of the Inca citadel.
- Travelers should pack appropriate warm layers, rain gear, and trekking essentials, and be aware of additional costs for flights, travel insurance, and optional activities.
Overview and Pricing
The 8-day Cusco and Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu offers an immersive adventure through the Andes, starting from £1,363.01 per person.
Travelers can reserve their spot now and pay later, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
The small group is limited to 12 participants, ensuring a more personalized experience.
The trek duration is 8 days, providing ample time to explore the stunning landscapes, ancient ruins, and diverse flora and fauna along the way.
With included services such as accommodations, meals, transportation, and entrance fees, this package offers a comprehensive and hassle-free trekking experience to one of Peru’s most iconic destinations – Machu Picchu.
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Itinerary Highlights
The 8-day Cusco and Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu itinerary highlights the diverse landscapes, cultural sites, and iconic destinations along the way.
On day 1, you’ll acclimatize in Cusco and stay at the 3-star Ayni Cusco Hotel.
Day 2 features visits to Chinchero, Moray, and the Maras Salt Mines before returning to Cusco.
The trek begins on day 3, taking you from Cusco to Soraypampa, including a stop at Humantay Lake.
Days 4 and 5 continue the trek, reaching the highest point at 4,600 meters and observing the diverse flora and fauna.
On day 6, you’ll hike to Aguas Calientes and have an early visit to Machu Picchu on day 7.
The final day allows for free time in Cusco before your departure.
Arrival and Acclimatization
Upon arrival in Cusco, travelers embark on a crucial phase of acclimatization to the high-altitude environment.
At 3,400 meters above sea level, the thin air can cause headaches, nausea, and fatigue. To adjust, guests stay at the 3-star Ayni Cusco Hotel, allowing their bodies to acclimate gradually.
During this time, they can explore Cusco at a leisurely pace, visiting historic sites like the Plaza de Armas and Sacsayhuaman. Staying hydrated, eating light meals, and resting are essential.
With proper preparation, travelers will be ready to tackle the physically demanding Salkantay Trek in the coming days.
Sights and Experiences
Departing from Cusco, the trek journeys through a diverse landscape, revealing some of Peru’s most captivating cultural and natural wonders. Highlights include the Chinchero textile workshops, Moray’s ancient Inca agricultural terraces, and the striking Maras salt ponds. Along the way, trekkers have the opportunity to admire the turquoise waters of Humantay Lake and the stunning Salkantay mountain range. The trek also showcases Peru’s rich biodiversity, with chances to observe diverse flora and fauna.
| Site | Description |
|---|---|
| Chinchero | Vibrant textile workshops featuring traditional Andean weaving techniques |
| Moray | Serene Inca agricultural terraces nestled in a natural amphitheater |
| Maras | Striking salt ponds carved into the hillside, a unique sight to behold |
| Humantay Lake | Turquoise alpine lake surrounded by towering glaciers |
Trekking the Salkantay
Trekking the Salkantay begins with a journey from Cusco to the trailhead at Soraypampa.
The hike takes trekkers through diverse landscapes, from alpine lakes to cloud forests.
On Day 3, the group climbs to Humantay Lake, a stunning glacial body of water.
The trek reaches its highest point on Day 4, crossing a pass at 4,600 meters.
Descending into the Lucmabamba valley, trekkers encounter an abundance of flora and fauna.
The final day’s hike leads to Aguas Calientes, the gateway to Machu Picchu.
Throughout the journey, trekkers enjoy comfortable campsites, well-prepared meals, and the expert guidance of an English-speaking tour leader.
Machu Picchu Visit
On the penultimate day, the group reaches the historic Inca citadel of Machu Picchu. They embark on an early visit to this wonder of the world, accompanied by a guided tour. Travelers can opt to climb the optional Huayna Picchu mountain, offering breathtaking panoramic views. The experience evokes a sense of wonder and connection with the past, as they explore the intricate stone structures and imagine the lives of the Inca civilization. To further enhance the journey, the group later returns to the charming town of Aguas Calientes for their final night’s accommodation.
| Machu Picchu Highlights | Included |
|---|---|
| Guided Tour | Yes |
| Huayna Picchu | Optional |
| Return to Aguas Calientes | Yes |
What to Bring
Travelers’ packing lists are essential for the Cusco and Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu. The trek requires comfortable shoes, sun protection like hats and sunscreen, and rain gear.
Warm layers like fleece and jackets are a must. Insect repellent, toiletries, and medications are also recommended. A small backpack and trekking poles can make the journey more manageable.
Travelers should avoid bringing pets, weapons, alcohol, or drugs. When booking, they’ll need to provide personal details like full name, date of birth, and passport info.
While flights and travel insurance aren’t included, optional extras like Huayna Picchu entrance and equipment rentals are available.
Additional Considerations
Beyond the essential packing list, there are a few additional considerations for the Cusco and Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu. First, flights to and from Cusco are not included in the package price. Travelers should budget for these international and domestic flights accordingly. Plus, travel insurance is highly recommended to protect against unexpected events. Solo travelers should also factor in the single supplement fee of $250 USD. For those wishing to climb Huayna Picchu, an extra $85 USD is required for the entrance fee. Lastly, meals and tips for guides, cooks, and horse herders beyond what’s included are at the traveler’s own expense.
| Additional Costs | Description | Amount |
|---|---|---|
| Flights | International & domestic flights | Not included |
| Travel Insurance | Recommended protection | Varies |
| Single Supplement | For solo travelers | $250 USD |
| Huayna Picchu | Optional mountain climb | $85 USD |
| Tips & Meals | Beyond included services | Not included |
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Bring My Pets on the Trek?
Unfortunately, pets are not allowed on the trek. The tour explicitly states that "Not allowed: Pets, weapons, intoxication, alcohol, drugs." Participants must follow these rules for the safety and enjoyment of the entire group.
Is It Possible to Hike Without a Guide?
It’s generally not recommended to hike the Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu without a guide. The trek is remote and challenging, and a guide provides necessary support, navigation, and expertise to ensure a safe and successful journey.
What Is the Minimum Group Size for This Tour?
The minimum group size for this tour is 2 participants. The tour has a small group size limit of 12 participants, so the minimum to run the tour is a group of 2 trekkers.
Can I Extend My Stay in Cusco After the Trek?
Yes, customers can extend their stay in Cusco after the trek. The package does not include additional nights in Cusco, so travelers can book extra accommodation as needed to extend their time in the city.
Is There an Option to Rent Trekking Equipment?
Yes, the package offers an option to rent trekking equipment like trekking poles and sleeping bags. These are available for hire, allowing hikers to travel light without needing to bring their own gear.
Recap
The 8-day Cusco and Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu offers an unrivaled opportunity to experience Peru’s stunning landscapes and rich cultural heritage. Trekkers will be captivated by the breathtaking scenery, from the serene Humantay Lake to the majestic Salkantay Pass, before culminating their journey with an early visit to the iconic Machu Picchu. This personalized, small-group adventure is a must for anyone seeking an unforgettable exploration of the Inca civilization.
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