Salkantay Trek 5 Days to Machu Picchu by Glamping Sky Lodge Dome

The Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu provides an extraordinary opportunity for adventurous travelers seeking a unique hiking experience. Combining the rugged beauty of the Andes with the comfort of glamping accommodations, this five-day journey offers a seamless blend of outdoor exploration and luxurious amenities. From the moment trekkers set foot on the trail, they’ll be immersed in a world of breathtaking vistas, diverse wildlife, and the rich cultural heritage of Peru. With a focus on personalized experiences and top-notch support, this trek promises an unforgettable adventure that will leave participants eager to uncover more of the region’s hidden gems.

Key Points

• This 5-day Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu offers a unique glamping experience with accommodations in Glamping Sky Lodge Domes and a final night in a hotel in Aguas Calientes.
• The trek includes professional guides, porters or horses for gear transport, and all meals with vegetarian options, ensuring a well-supported and catered adventure.
• The maximum group size is limited to 20 adventurers, providing a personalized experience and allowing for flexibility in adapting to weather conditions.
• Participants should have moderate physical fitness to handle the varied terrain, elevation changes, and trekking challenges throughout the 5-day journey.
• With an average rating of 5.0 from 98 reviews, the Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu is praised for its scenic views, wildlife sightings, and quality of food and services.

Trek Overview

The Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu is a 5-day hiking adventure that takes travelers through the stunning landscapes of Cusco, Peru, culminating at the iconic Inca citadel of Machu Picchu.

This challenging yet rewarding trek includes two nights in the luxurious Glamping Sky Lodge Dome, as well as one night in a smaller dome and another in a hotel in Aguas Calientes.

With a maximum group size of 20 adventurers, the trek offers a personalized experience led by experienced guides.

The tour includes a briefing the night before, hotel pickup, and transportation to the trailhead.

Travelers can expect to encounter breathtaking vistas, diverse wildlife, and delicious Peruvian cuisine throughout their journey.

Itinerary and Accommodations

Starting from the trek’s overview, the 5-day Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu offers a diverse array of accommodations throughout the journey. Travelers will spend 2 nights in the luxurious Glamping Sky Lodge Dome, 1 night in a smaller dome, and the final night in a hotel in Aguas Calientes before reaching the iconic Inca citadel. The trek includes a briefing the night before, hotel pickup, and transportation to the trailhead. Porters or horses are provided to carry personal belongings, and a professional guide, cook, and cooking equipment are all part of the inclusive experience.

Accommodation	Nights
Glamping Sky Lodge Dome	2
Small Dome	1
Hotel in Aguas Calientes	1

Included Meals and Support

Across the 5-day trek, travelers can count on a wide array of meals, with 4 breakfasts, 4 lunches, and 4 dinners provided, including vegetarian options at no extra cost.

Complementing the culinary experience, the tour also includes a professional guide, cook, and all necessary cooking equipment.

To further support the trekking experience, porters or horses are available to carry the group’s food, camping gear, and each traveler’s personal belongings up to a 7 kg limit.

Travelers will also receive a duffel bag for their personal items, a first-aid kit with emergency oxygen, and a commemorative t-shirt to mark their achievement of the Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu.

Gear and Packing Recommendations

Travelers should pack a variety of clothing and gear to ensure they’re prepared for the Salkantay Trek‘s diverse weather conditions and terrain.

The recommended gear includes a poly/fleece jacket, a lightweight long-sleeved shirt, 2-3 T-shirts, and a rain poncho for the upper body. For the lower body, hikers should bring wind/rain pants, lightweight cotton pants, and fleece pants.

Footwear should consist of 4 pairs of wool or synthetic socks and durable trekking boots.

Plus, travelers should pack a sleeping bag rated to -11°C, a good backpack, walking poles, a water bottle, sunscreen, insect repellent, and any necessary personal medications.

This comprehensive packing list will ensure hikers are equipped to tackle the Salkantay Trek comfortably and safely.

Physical Fitness Requirements

The Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu requires a moderate level of physical fitness, as it involves challenging hikes over varied terrain and elevation changes.

Individuals with serious medical conditions or who are pregnant should avoid this trek, as it may pose risks to their well-being.

Participants should be prepared to navigate uphill climbs, steep descents, and unpredictable weather conditions. A good level of cardiovascular endurance, as well as strong leg and core muscles, are essential for completing the trek successfully.

While the tour operator provides support and guidance, it’s ultimately the responsibility of each trekker to ensure they’re physically capable of undertaking the journey.

Those unsure of their fitness level should consult a medical professional before booking the trek.

Guest Experience and Feedback

According to the reviews, guests have overwhelmingly praised the Salkantay Trek, with an average rating of 5.0 out of 98 reviews.

Travelers highlighted the amazing experience, noting the scenic views, wildlife sightings, and delicious food provided.

The group dynamics and support from the guides were also highly commended.

Guests appreciated the flexibility in plans due to weather conditions, as well as the unique accommodations in the sky domes featuring hot water.

While the trek does require a moderate level of physical fitness, reviewers agreed that it was worth the effort, providing an unforgettable adventure trekking to the iconic Machu Picchu.

Pricing and Booking Details

Starting at $680.00 per person, the Salkantay Trek offers a maximum group size of 20 travelers.

Though non-refundable, confirmation is received upon booking, with the meeting point located at Plaza San Francisco in Cusco, Peru at 5:00 am.

Travelers should note the tour’s strict cancellation policy – any cancellations will result in no refund.

However, the inclusive package covers a range of essentials, including hotel pickup, a tourist bus to the trailhead, and transportation via tourist train.

With meals, professional guides, porters, and specialized equipment all provided, the Salkantay Trek presents a comprehensive and hassle-free experience for adventurous trekkers seeking to reach the iconic Machu Picchu.

Meeting Point and Departure

Travelers meet at Plaza San Francisco in Cusco, Peru at 5:00 am to begin the Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu.

From there, the group is picked up and transported by tourist bus to the trailhead at Challacancha. The trek starts from this point, offering stunning views of the Salkantay mountain and the surrounding Andean landscape.

The tour includes a hotel pickup, ensuring a seamless start to the adventure. This early morning meeting allows the group to depart on time and make the most of the day’s trekking.

With the guide, porters, and all necessary equipment ready, the participants are set to embark on their 5-day journey to the iconic Machu Picchu ruins.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Maximum Group Size for This Trek?

The maximum group size for this trek is 20 travelers. The information states that the tour has a maximum of 20 travelers per tour, indicating the upper limit for the group size.

Are There Any Age Restrictions for This Trek?

There are no specific age restrictions for this trek, though the tour operator advises it’s not suitable for individuals with serious medical conditions or pregnant travelers due to the moderate physical fitness level required. Children can participate with parental discretion.

Can I Bring My Own Personal Porter for This Trek?

The tour includes porters or horses to carry gear, with a 7 kg limit per person. Bringing one’s own personal porter is not mentioned in the information provided, so it’s unclear if that would be permitted for this specific trek.

Do I Need to Obtain Any Permits or Passes for This Trek?

Yes, you’ll need a permit to trek to Machu Picchu. The permit covers entrance to the ruins and must be obtained in advance. Check with the tour operator about securing the necessary permits for your trek.

What Is the Cancellation Policy if I Need to Change My Travel Dates?

The trek has a non-refundable cancellation policy, so there’s no refund if you need to change your travel dates. You’ll forfeit the full cost if you cancel your reservation.

Recap

The Salkantay Trek 5 Days to Machu Picchu offers an unforgettable adventure, combining breathtaking natural scenery with the comfort of Glamping Sky Lodge Domes.

Trekkers enjoy stunning vistas, diverse wildlife, and delectable Peruvian cuisine, all while staying in luxurious accommodations.

With a small group size and professional support, this trek provides a personalized experience for those seeking to explore the wonders of Machu Picchu.