The Salkantay 5D/4N trek is a popular and renowned adventure that draws outdoor enthusiasts from around the world. Offering a captivating blend of stunning natural scenery and immersive cultural experiences, this trek promises an unforgettable journey. Trekkers can expect to be awestruck by the majestic Humantay and Salkantay mountains, while also having the opportunity to unwind at the Cocalmayo hot springs and explore the iconic Machu Picchu. With a comprehensive package that includes experienced guides, transportation, meals, and camping gear, this trek provides a seamless and well-rounded adventure. However, the true allure of the Salkantay 5D/4N lies in the unique perspectives and personal growth that each participant can discover along the way.
Key Points
- The Salkantay 5D/4N trek is priced from $650 per person and is recognized as one of the top 25 excursions worldwide by National Geographic Adventure.
- The trek includes a bilingual guide, transportation, meals, camping gear, and entrance fees, with optional services like sleeping bag rental and porter service available.
- The 5-day itinerary covers a scenic hike from Cusco to Machu Picchu, including visits to the Inca citadel and natural hot springs.
- Camping activities, guided tours, and local Peruvian cuisine are part of the trekking experience, fostering connection with nature and culture.
- The package includes all necessary transportation, allowing for a hassle-free adventure, with flexibility to customize the experience based on preferences and budget.
Overview and Pricing
The Salkantay 5D/4N is a popular multi-day trekking package that takes adventurers on a journey through the stunning landscapes of Peru’s Andes mountains.
Priced from $650 per person, this tour is recognized as one of the top 25 excursions worldwide by National Geographic Adventure magazine.
Travelers can enjoy free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and reserve their spot without upfront payment.
The package includes a bilingual guide, transportation, meals, camping gear, and entrance fees to Machu Picchu and Salkantay Park.
Optional services like sleeping bag rental and porter service are available for an additional cost.
With its flexible reservation policy, the Salkantay 5D/4N offers an unforgettable adventure in the heart of the Andes.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Aguas Calientes.
Itinerary Summary
The Salkantay 5D/4N itinerary takes travelers on an unforgettable journey through the stunning landscapes of the Andes.
The adventure begins with a 7-8 hour hike from Cusco to Soraypampa via Mollepata. On day two, hikers trek 8-9 hours from Soraypampa to Chaullay, passing through the scenic Huayraqpampa and Rayanpata.
The third day involves a 5-6 hour descent to Santa Teresa. Guests then hike 3-4 hours along the Urubamba River to Aguas Calientes on day four.
The final day culminates with an early morning visit to the iconic Machu Picchu before returning to Cusco.
Key Attractions
Key Attractions
The Salkantay 5D/4N trek offers access to several renowned attractions. The primary highlight is the Inca citadel of Machu Picchu, one of the Seven Wonders of the World.
Hikers will also witness the stunning snow-capped peaks of Humantay and Salkantay mountains. The trek itself is renowned as the Salkantay Machu Picchu hike, considered a premier route to the iconic Inca ruins.
Along the way, trekkers may have opportunities to visit the Cocalmayo hot springs, seeing the natural thermal waters.
With a focus on outdoor adventures and cultural exploration, the Salkantay 5D/4N trek provides an unparalleled experience for those seeking to discover the wonders of Peru’s Andes region.
Activities
While the Salkantay 5D/4N trek primarily focuses on hiking and outdoor exploration, it also offers several optional activities for participants to enhance their experience. Guests can visit the renowned Cocalmayo hot springs, located near the trail, to soothe their muscles after a long day of trekking. Plus, the guided tours at Machu Picchu provide an immersive and informative experience, allowing travelers to explore the rich history and significance of this iconic Inca citadel. Finally, the camping activities, such as setting up tents and enjoying meals prepared by the on-site chef, foster a sense of camaraderie and connection with the natural surroundings.
| Optional Activity | Description | Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Cocalmayo Hot Springs | Relax in the natural thermal baths | Fee Applies |
| Guided Tour of Machu Picchu | In-depth exploration of the Inca ruins | Included |
| Camping Activities | Set up tents, enjoy meals prepared by chef | Included |
Guides and Transportation
A bilingual guide accompanies the Salkantay 5D/4N trek, providing expert insights and leading the group throughout the journey.
Transportation is included, with a bus ride from Cusco to Mollepata and another from Santa Teresa to the Hydroelectric station.
The tour also includes a train ticket from Aguas Calientes back to Cusco at the end of the trek.
All necessary transportation, whether by bus, train, or on foot, is organized and arranged as part of the package, allowing trekkers to focus on the adventure at hand without the hassle of logistics.
Meals and Accommodation
The Salkantay 5D/4N trek includes 4 breakfasts, 4 lunches, and 4 dinners for the duration of the hike. All meals are provided and prepared by the tour’s chef. Participants will enjoy a variety of local Peruvian cuisine, including traditional dishes made with fresh, seasonal ingredients.
For accommodation, the tour includes a hostel stay in Aguas Calientes, the town at the base of Machu Picchu. This provides a comfortable place to rest and recharge after the challenging trek.
The package also includes necessary camping gear, such as tents and sleeping mats, to ensure a comfortable experience during the camping portions of the hike.
Camping Gear and Entrance Fees
Along With the comfortable hostel stay in Aguas Calientes, the Salkantay 5D/4N trek also includes the necessary camping gear to ensure a pleasant experience during the hiking portions. This includes horses to carry the equipment, tents, sleeping mats, and a chef to prepare the included 4 breakfasts, 4 lunches, and 4 dinners.
Plus, all entrance fees are covered, such as Machu Picchu, Salkantay Park, and the bus tickets to and from Aguas Calientes. Travelers can focus on the stunning landscapes and hiking without worrying about logistical details.
The option to rent a sleeping bag or hire an additional porter is available for those who need it, providing flexibility to customize the experience.
Important Information
Though additional services like sleeping bag rental, porter service, and transportation to Cocalmayo thermal baths are optional, travelers can keep their travel plans flexible by taking advantage of the reserve now & pay later option. The entrance fee to Machu Picchu is not included in the package price and costs 20 soles. To help travelers plan their trip, here’s a table with more details on the optional services:
| Service | Fee |
|---|---|
| Sleeping Bag Rental | Optional |
| Additional Porter Service | $70 (max load 15 kg) |
| Transportation to Cocalmayo Thermal Baths | Optional, fee applies |
Maintaining this flexibility allows guests to customize their Salkantay 5D/4N experience to suit their preferences and budget.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Start the Trek From Cusco?
Yes, the trek starts from Cusco. The tour includes transportation from Cusco to the trailhead at Mollepata, where the hiking portion of the Salkantay trek begins.
What Is the Difficulty Level of the Trek?
The Salkantay trek is considered a moderate to challenging hike, with long days of trekking reaching elevations over 15,000 feet. Hikers should have a good level of physical fitness and be prepared for steep ascents and descents through varied terrain.
Can I Extend My Stay in Aguas Calientes?
Yes, travelers can extend their stay in Aguas Calientes. The itinerary includes a night in Aguas Calientes, but participants are free to book additional nights to explore the town and Machu Picchu further at their own expense.
Are There Any Altitude Sickness Precautions?
To prevent altitude sickness, it’s recommended to acclimate gradually, stay hydrated, avoid alcohol, and consider taking altitude sickness medication if needed. The tour operator can also provide guidance on managing the elevation changes during the trek.
Can I Customize the Itinerary to Suit My Preferences?
Yes, you can often customize the itinerary to suit your preferences, subject to availability. Many tour operators are flexible and willing to adjust the schedule or activities based on your interests and needs.
Recap
The Salkantay 5D/4N trek is an exceptional outdoor adventure that allows travelers to enjoy the breathtaking landscapes of Peru. With its blend of stunning natural scenery, cultural exploration, and relaxation, this trek delivers an unforgettable experience for those seeking a well-rounded adventure. At a price point from $650 per person, it’s a compelling option for those looking to explore the Andes and the iconic Machu Picchu.
You can check if your dates are available here:More Tour Reviews in Aguas Calientes
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