Cusco: 5-Day Guided Trek to Machu Picchu With Mule and Tent

Exploring the iconic Salkantay trail in Peru’s Cusco region promises an unforgettable adventure. The 5-day guided trek to Machu Picchu, complete with mules and tents, offers travellers the chance to enjoy breathtaking landscapes, ancient ruins, and the rich cultural heritage of the region. With professional bilingual guides, comfortable accommodations, and delectable meals, this trek caters to adventurers seeking an authentic Andean experience. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or a first-time explorer, this journey through the Andes is sure to leave a lasting impression.

This experience made our list of the 20 Best Hiking And Trekking Tours In Urubamba.

Key Points

• This guided trek to Machu Picchu from Cusco lasts 5 days and includes the use of mules and tents for camping.
• The trek explores the Salkantay trail, visiting sites like Humantay lagoon and Patallacta ruins, and concludes with a guided tour of Machu Picchu.
• Professional bilingual guides lead the expedition, providing insights into the local culture, history, and nature.
• The package includes transportation, camping equipment, meals, and additional services like a cook and oxygen tank.
• The trek has a maximum of 15 participants and offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Overview and Pricing

The name of the trek is "Cusco: 5-Day Guided Trek to Machu Picchu with Mule and Tent," and it’s priced from Kč11,405 per person.

Booking is available with a reserve now and pay later option, and there’s free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

The trek lasts 5 days and is limited to 15 participants, with guides available in English and Spanish.

This guided trek offers breathtaking landscapes, ancient ruins, and a tour of the iconic Machu Picchu, providing an immersive experience in the heart of Peru’s natural and cultural wonders.

Trek Experience and Itinerary

On the 5-day guided trek to Machu Picchu, travelers will explore the breathtaking Salkantay trail, encountering mesmerizing landscapes, ancient ruins, diverse flora, and abundant fauna.

Highlights include a hike to the stunning Humantay lagoon (4220 m.a.s.l.), traversing cloud and rainforest environments, passing rivers and wild strawberries, and visiting the Patallacta ruins.

The itinerary takes trekkers through a variety of terrain, from Soraypampa to La Playa, culminating in a guided tour of the iconic Machu Picchu.

Throughout the journey, you will be supported by professional bilingual guides, horses and mules for carrying equipment, and delicious meals prepared by a dedicated cook.

Guides and Transportation

As part of the Cusco: 5-Day Guided Trek to Machu Picchu, travelers benefit from the expertise of professional bilingual guides who lead the expedition.

The trek includes one primary guide, with a second guide provided for groups of 9 or more participants. These knowledgeable guides ensure a smooth and informative journey, sharing insights into the local culture, history, and natural wonders along the way.

Plus, the tour provides transportation from Cusco to the starting point in Soraypampa, allowing trekkers to focus on the hiking experience without worrying about logistics.

With the guidance and support of the tour, participants can fully enjoy the stunning Salkantay trail and its breathtaking landscapes.

Camping and Accommodation

Participants’ overnight accommodations on the Cusco: 5-Day Guided Trek to Machu Picchu consist of 3 nights of camping and 1 night in a hotel in Aguas Calientes.

The camping equipment provided includes mattresses, sleeping tents, a kitchen tent, and a dining tent, as well as hot water for washing. Boiled water and coca tea are available starting from day 2.

The trek also includes the services of horses and mules to carry the equipment, an oxygen tank, and a professional cook to prepare the 4 breakfasts, 4 lunches, 4 snacks, and 4 dinners included in the package.

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Meals

The trek’s catering service ensures participants enjoy a variety of nourishing meals throughout the 5-day adventure. Hikers start each day with a hearty breakfast, followed by a filling lunch on the trail. Afternoon snacks provide energy boosts, while delectable dinners round out the day. Boiled water and coca tea are available from day 2 onward. The meals cater to various dietary needs and preferences, as shown in the table below:

Meal	Options
Breakfast	Eggs, pancakes, oatmeal, fruit, coffee, tea
Lunch	Sandwiches, pasta, rice dishes, salads
Snack	Granola bars, fruit, nuts, energy bars
Dinner	Soups, stews, vegetarian options, dessert
Beverages	Boiled water, coca tea

Additional Services

To enhance the trekking experience, the tour package includes several additional services.

Horses and mules are provided to carry the equipment, ensuring hikers can focus on enjoying the trek without the burden of carrying heavy gear. An oxygen tank is also available for those who may need it during the high-altitude portions of the hike.

Plus, a professional cook is part of the team, preparing delicious meals throughout the journey.

The package also includes a train ticket from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo, as well as entrance fees for both Machu Picchu and Huayna Picchu.

What to Bring

Along With the comprehensive services provided, hikers should come prepared for the trek with the necessary items. The recommended packing list includes the following:

Essential Items	Optional Items
Passport or ID card	Camera
Warm clothing	Sunscreen
Hiking shoes	Rain gear
Hat	Comfortable clothes
Cash

Ensuring you have these essential items will help you make the most of the 5-day guided trek to Machu Picchu, allowing you to focus on the breathtaking landscapes, ancient ruins, and rich cultural experiences along the way.

Booking and Availability

Convenient online booking options allow travelers to reserve their spot and pay later for the Cusco: 5-Day Guided Trek to Machu Picchu.

Interested participants can check availability by selecting the desired number of people and trek date. The trek is limited to a maximum of 15 people, ensuring a personalized experience.

Reservations can be made without any upfront payment, and free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

This flexible booking process makes it easy for adventurers to secure their place on this immersive 5-day guided trek through the stunning Salkantay trail and to the iconic Machu Picchu.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Camping Equipment?

No, you can’t bring your own camping equipment. The trek package includes all necessary camping equipment like mattresses, sleeping tents, kitchen and dining tents, and hot water for washing, which are provided by the tour operator.

Is There an Option for a Private Trek?

Yes, there is an option for a private trek. Customers can request a private group trek, which allows them to customize the itinerary and have a more personalized experience with just their own group.

Can I Customize the Itinerary to My Preferences?

Yes, travelers can customize the trek itinerary to their preferences. The tour operator typically offers flexibility in adjusting the daily activities, pace, and accommodation options to suit individual needs and interests.

How Do I Handle High-Altitude Sickness Symptoms?

If experiencing high-altitude sickness symptoms like headaches, dizziness, or nausea, the traveler should take it slow, stay hydrated, and notify the guide. Medication or oxygen may be provided to help manage the symptoms and ensure a safe trek.

Are There Any Restrictions on the Weight of My Luggage?

Yes, there are restrictions on luggage weight. Participants are typically allowed to bring up to 7 kg of personal gear for the trek, which will be transported by mules. Excess weight may incur additional fees.

Recap

The Cusco: 5-Day Guided Trek to Machu Picchu with Mule and Tent offers an unforgettable adventure through the stunning Salkantay trail. With professional guides, comfortable accommodations, and nourishing meals, this trek provides a comprehensive and practical way to explore the ancient ruins and breathtaking landscapes of the region. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or seeking a unique cultural experience, this trek is sure to create lasting memories.

You can check if your dates are available here: