The Salkantay Machu Picchu trek is an exciting alternative to the classic Inca Trail, offering adventurous trekkers an immersive experience through diverse Andean landscapes. Recognized as one of the world’s best treks, this 5-day, 4-night journey promises breathtaking vistas, cultural encounters, and the ultimate reward – a guided tour of the iconic Machu Picchu. With a focus on safety, comfort, and flexibility, the trek is designed to captivate both seasoned and novice hikers alike. But what makes this route truly stand out, and why should you consider it over the more conventional options? Uncover the answers as you delve deeper into the details of this extraordinary adventure.
Key Points
- The Salkantay Trek is a 5-day, 4-night alternative route to Machu Picchu, recognized as one of the 25 best treks globally.
- The trek includes diverse landscapes, culminating in a guided tour of the iconic Machu Picchu site.
- The itinerary involves a mix of hiking and bus transfers, with the final leg from Santa Teresa to Aguas Calientes completed by bus.
- Accommodations include camping for the majority of the trek and a hostel in Aguas Calientes on the final night.
- The trek includes various optional activities, such as visiting Cocalmayo thermal baths, exploring coffee plantations, and participating in Andean cooking classes.
Overview of the Trek
The Salkantay Machu Picchu Trek is a 5-day, 4-night excursion that’s been recognized as one of the 25 best in the world by National Geographic Adventure magazine.
Priced from $715 per person, the trek has a maximum group size of 15 participants and is offered in English and Spanish. Guests can take advantage of free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and flexible booking options.
The trek covers a range of landscapes, from high-altitude mountain vistas to lush jungle terrain, culminating in a guided tour of the iconic Machu Picchu.
With diverse daily activities and comfortable camping accommodations, the Salkantay Machu Picchu Trek provides an unforgettable adventure.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Aguas Calientes.
Detailed Itinerary
The 5-day, 4-night Salkantay Machu Picchu Trek begins with a pick-up at 4:30 a.m. in Cusco. After a 2-hour bus ride to Mollepata, the hike starts with 7-8 hours of walking to Cruzpata for lunch, and then 5 hours to the Soraypampa campsite with views of the Humantay and Salkantay mountains.
The trek continues with:
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8-9 hours of hiking through Huayraqpampa and Rayanpata to the Chaullay camp (1,900 meters above sea level) on Day 2.
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5-6 hours of hiking, descending into the jungle to Playa Sahuayaco for lunch, with an optional visit to the Cocalmayo thermal baths on Day 3.
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3-4 hours of walking to La Hidroeléctrica, followed by a 3-hour walk to Aguas Calientes on Day 4.
Inclusions and Exclusions
The Salkantay Machu Picchu Trek includes a bilingual guide, transportation via bus and train, accommodation in a hostel in Aguas Calientes, and all necessary camping equipment.
Plus, the tour provides 4 breakfasts, 4 lunches, and 4 dinners, as well as entrance tickets to Machu Picchu and Salkantay Park.
The package also includes a chef, horses to carry camping gear, and a first aid kit.
Optional services, like an extra carrier service for up to 15 kg, are available for an additional fee.
However, the costs for visiting the Cocalmayo thermal baths and transportation to that location aren’t included in the main package price.
Accommodation and Dining
Accommodation for the Salkantay Machu Picchu Trek is provided in a hostel in Aguas Calientes on the final night of the tour. The remaining nights are spent camping at various locations along the trek.
The tour includes meals throughout the 5-day journey:
- 4 breakfasts, 4 lunches, and 4 dinners are provided, giving trekkers ample sustenance to complete the challenging hike.
- Meals are prepared by a dedicated chef, ensuring a high-quality dining experience in the remote Andean landscape.
- Dietary requirements can be accommodated with advance notice, allowing all participants to enjoy the culinary offerings.
Transportation and Logistics
For the Salkantay Machu Picchu Trek, transportation is provided throughout the 5-day journey. Participants are picked up from Cusco at 4:30 a.m. and transported by bus to Mollepata for breakfast. The trek involves a mix of hiking and bus transfers, with the final leg from Santa Teresa to Aguas Calientes completed by bus. A train ticket is included from Aguas Calientes back to Cusco. An optional porter service is available for an additional fee to carry up to 15 kg of personal belongings.
Day | Transportation |
---|---|
1 | Bus from Cusco to Mollepata |
2-3 | Hiking |
4 | Bus from Santa Teresa to Aguas Calientes |
5 | Bus from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu, Train from Aguas Calientes to Cusco |
Optional Activities
Although the core Salkantay Machu Picchu Trek includes various activities, travelers can also partake in optional excursions.
One popular option is to visit the Cocalmayo thermal baths, where visitors can relax and soothe their muscles after a day of hiking. The transportation and entrance fees for this activity aren’t included in the trek package, so travelers will need to arrange it separately.
Plus, adventurous souls may consider:
- Exploring the nearby coffee plantations and learning about the local production process
- Embarking on a zip-lining adventure through the lush jungle canopy
- Participating in a traditional Andean cooking class to enjoy the local culture
Health and Safety
Ensuring the health and safety of trekkers is a top priority for the Salkantay Machu Picchu Trek organizers. The trek includes a first-aid kit, and guides are trained in emergency response.
Participants should be in good physical condition, as the trek involves long hiking days and high altitudes. Travelers are advised to acclimate properly in Cusco before the trek.
Proper gear, including hiking boots, layers, and sun protection, is essential. Guides monitor weather conditions and can adjust the itinerary if necessary.
In case of illness or injury, the guide will provide immediate care and coordinate evacuation if needed.
Booking and Reservations
Travelers can easily reserve their spots on the Salkantay Machu Picchu Trek through the organizer’s website or by contacting their team directly.
The booking process is straightforward, with the following options:
- Flexible booking: Travelers can reserve their spot now and pay later, allowing for financial flexibility.
- Free cancellation: Participants can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing peace of mind.
- Secure payments: The trek organizers accept various payment methods, ensuring a hassle-free booking experience.
With these convenient booking options, adventurers can focus on preparing for their unforgettable Salkantay Machu Picchu journey.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Bring My Own Camping Gear?
According to the overview, you can bring your own camping gear, but the package includes tents, mats, and sleeping bags. The tour also provides a porter service to carry your camping equipment, up to 15 kg, for an additional fee.
Is There Any Age Limit for the Trek?
The Salkantay Machu Picchu trek doesn’t have an age limit. Participants of all ages can join the trek, as long as they’re physically fit to handle the hike. The tour operator accommodates travellers’ needs and abilities.
Are There Any Discounts for Solo Travelers?
No, the tour operator does not offer discounts for solo travelers. The pricing is the same for all participants, regardless of group size. Solo travelers pay the standard per person rate.
Can I Customize the Itinerary to My Preferences?
Yes, customers can customize the Salkantay Machu Picchu trek itinerary to their preferences. The tour operator offers flexible booking and allows travelers to adjust the daily activities and schedule to meet their needs.
What Should I Pack for the Trek?
When preparing for the trek, it’s important to pack layers, sturdy hiking boots, a raincoat, water bottle, snacks, a headlamp, sun protection, and any personal medications. The guide can provide a more detailed packing list to ensure a comfortable experience.
Recap
This Salkantay Machu Picchu trek offers an unforgettable adventure. Trekkers will experience diverse landscapes, cultural encounters, and guided tours to breathtaking sites. With high-quality meals, comfortable accommodations, and optional activities, the trek provides a safe and flexible journey to the iconic Machu Picchu. Whether seeking natural beauty or a unique trekking experience, this alternative route is an excellent choice for all adventurous travelers.
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