Salkantay Trek 5 Days

The Salkantay Trek in Peru offers adventurous travelers a remarkable 5-day journey through the Andes. This all-inclusive trek showcases the region’s breathtaking natural beauty, from the turquoise waters of Humantay Lagoon to the majestic peaks of Salkantay Mountain. With a mix of moderate and challenging hikes, the trek culminates in a guided tour of the iconic Machu Picchu. Priced at €373.16 per person, the Salkantay Trek provides an accessible opportunity for outdoor enthusiasts to enjoy Peru’s stunning landscapes and rich cultural heritage. What sets this trek apart, however, is the chance to uncover a hidden gem that will leave you yearning to explore further.

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

Key Points

• The Salkantay Trek is a 5-day hiking adventure priced at €373.16 per person, recognized by National Geographic as one of the top 20 treks worldwide.
• The trek features stunning landscapes including the Humantay lagoon, Salkantay mountain, and the Inca Trail leading to Machu Picchu.
• The itinerary includes challenging hikes reaching elevations up to 4,700 meters, with accommodations in campsites along the route.
• The trek includes Machu Picchu tickets and a guided tour, as well as support from experienced guides, muleteers, and horses.
• Proper packing for cold temperatures, with a quality sleeping bag and sturdy hiking boots, is essential for a successful and comfortable trek.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Trek Overview and Pricing

The 5-day Salkantay trek to Machu Picchu is priced from €373.16 per person.

This trek offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, and a reserve now & pay later option is available.

Celebrated by National Geographic as one of the top 20 treks worldwide, the Salkantay trek provides an alternative route to the iconic Inca citadel.

Trekkers will explore the stunning Humantay lagoon and Salkantay mountain during this challenging yet rewarding journey, making it a must-do experience for adventure-seekers visiting Peru.

Itinerary Highlights

One of the highlights of the Salkantay trek is that it’s celebrated by National Geographic as one of the top 20 treks worldwide.

The itinerary allows trekkers to explore the stunning Humantay lagoon and the mighty Salkantay mountain, providing an alternative route to the iconic Inca citadel of Machu Picchu.

The key itinerary highlights include:

1. Visiting the turquoise Humantay lagoon, set against the backdrop of the Salkantay mountain.
2. Ascending to the challenging Salkantay Pass, standing at an impressive 4,700 meters.
3. Hiking the Inca Trail to the picturesque Llactapata ruins, with stunning views of Machu Picchu in the distance.

Daily Breakdown

The 5-day Salkantay trek to Machu Picchu commences with an exploration of the captivating Humantay lagoon on Day 1. Trekkers will cover 10 km (6 miles) over 5-6 hours of moderate difficulty, camping at an altitude of 4,000 meters.

Day 2 presents a challenging ascent to the Salkantay Pass at 4,700 meters, covering 22 km (14 miles) over 9-10 hours, before descending to camp at 2,900 meters.

On Day 3, the trek continues with a relatively easy 16 km (10 miles) hike over 5-6 hours in the Santa Teresa Valley, camping at 2,000 meters.

The fourth day’s highlight is the demanding 24 km (15 miles) Inca Trail hike to Llactapata, reaching a maximum altitude of 2,700 meters.

What’s Included

Comprehensive inclusions mark the Salkantay trek, ensuring a seamless and enriching experience for adventurers. The trek package includes:

1. Machu Picchu tickets, a guided tour, and accommodation in Aguas Calientes, allowing travelers to fully enjoy the iconic Inca citadel.

2. A team of experienced guides, muleteers, and horses to support the group throughout the journey, along with emergency provisions, sleeping bags, and trekking sticks.

3. Meals, snacks, and access to hot springs and showers along the trail, catering to the physical needs of the trekkers.

These all-encompassing inclusions make the Salkantay trek a hassle-free adventure, enabling participants to focus on the stunning landscapes and cultural discoveries that await.

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Weather and Difficulty Levels

Depending on the season, trekkers on the Salkantay Trail can expect a range of weather conditions and difficulty levels across the multi-day hike.

During the dry season from May to August, nights can be bitterly cold, with temperatures potentially dipping as low as -5°C. However, daytime temperatures at lower elevations are generally warm and pleasant.

The trek features varying levels of difficulty, ranging from moderate on the first day to challenging on the second and fourth days. Trekkers should be prepared for a mix of warm and hot conditions at lower altitudes, as well as frigid temperatures at night throughout the trek.

Machu Picchu Experience

Reaching the iconic Machu Picchu is the culmination of the Salkantay Trek, where trekkers finally get to explore the ancient Inca citadel after their multi-day journey.

On the final day, hikers take a short 1.5-hour transfer from Aguas Calientes to the stunningly preserved ruins. Here, they’ll embark on a guided tour of Machu Picchu, marveling at its intricate stone structures, terraced gardens, and breathtaking vistas overlooking the Urubamba River.

After the tour, trekkers can:

1. Climb to the Sun Gate for panoramic views of Machu Picchu.
2. Hike to the Inca Bridge, a narrow stone passage carved into the mountainside.
3. Relax in the hot springs of Aguas Calientes before the return journey.

Booking and Cancellation

To reserve the 5-day Salkantay Trek, travelers can book directly through the tour operator’s website.

The trek is priced at €373.16 per person and offers a free cancellation option up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Travelers can also choose the "Reserve Now & Pay Later" option, which allows them to secure their spot without an immediate payment.

The trek is celebrated by National Geographic as one of the top 20 treks worldwide, offering an alternative route to the iconic Inca citadel of Machu Picchu.

Detailed itinerary highlights, daily breakdown, and weather and difficulty levels are provided to help travelers plan their trek.

Packing Recommendations

Packing the right gear is crucial for a successful and comfortable Salkantay trek. Trekkers should bring warm, waterproof layers to combat the cold temperatures and unpredictable weather. A good quality sleeping bag rated for -10°C or below is essential for staying cozy in the camping sites.

Plus, sturdy, broken-in hiking boots with good traction are a must-have to navigate the challenging terrain. Other recommended items include:

1. Headlamp or flashlight
2. Sun protection (hat, sunglasses, sunscreen)
3. Trekking poles to ease the strain on knees

Proper packing ensures hikers are prepared for the various conditions they’ll encounter on the Salkantay trek.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Much Time Do I Need to Acclimatize Before the Trek?

Travelers should plan to acclimatize for at least 1-2 days in Cusco or the Sacred Valley before starting the Salkantay Trek. Proper acclimatization helps prevent altitude sickness and ensures a more enjoyable and safe trekking experience.

Can I Add Extra Acclimatization Days to the Itinerary?

Yes, you can add extra acclimatization days to the itinerary. Allowing for proper acclimatization is highly recommended, as it can improve your overall trek experience and reduce the risk of altitude-related issues.

What Kind of Physical Training Is Recommended for This Trek?

Comprehensive physical training is recommended for the Salkantay Trek. Hikers should focus on improving cardiovascular fitness, building leg strength, and increasing endurance through regular hiking, cycling, and strength training sessions. Proper preparation is key for successfully completing this challenging high-altitude trek.

Can I Upgrade to a Private or Smaller Group Trek?

Yes, travelers can upgrade to a private or smaller group trek for the Salkantay trek. Private options are available for an additional cost, offering more personalized experiences and flexibility during the hike.

Are There Any Age or Fitness Restrictions for This Trek?

There are generally no age or fitness restrictions for the Salkantay Trek, though it’s recommended that participants be in good physical condition to handle the challenging portions of the hike. The tour operator can provide guidance on suitability.

Recap

The Salkantay Trek offers adventurous travelers an unforgettable 5-day journey through Peru’s stunning landscapes. Priced at €373.16 per person, this trek combines moderate to challenging hikes, culminating in a guided tour of the iconic Machu Picchu. With flexible booking options and packing recommendations, the Salkantay Trek is an accessible choice for outdoor enthusiasts seeking a memorable and comprehensive Peruvian experience.

You can check if your dates are available here: