Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu (5 Days)

The Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu is a five-day adventure that takes hikers through Peru’s stunning Cusco region. Covering approximately 55 kilometers, this challenging trek showcases the area’s diverse landscapes, from rugged mountain passes to lush cloud forests, before culminating at the awe-inspiring Machu Picchu, a UNESCO World Heritage site. With rustic accommodations, hearty meals, and essential gear provided, the trek caters to adventurous travelers seeking an unforgettable journey – but don’t let the promise of Machu Picchu distract you from the wonders you’ll encounter along the way.

Key Points

• The Salkantay Trek is a 5-day hiking adventure in Peru’s Cusco region, covering approximately 55 kilometers through diverse landscapes.
• The trek includes meals, entrance fees, and essential equipment like sleeping bags and inflatable mattresses, suitable for adventurous travelers with strong fitness levels.
• The itinerary takes hikers through cloud forests, glacial lakes, and Andean valleys, culminating in a visit to the iconic Machu Picchu.
• Accommodations are provided at four rustic campsites with basic facilities, and meals are prepared by an accompanying chef.
• The tour operator provides necessary gear, including trekking poles, ensuring a comfortable and worry-free experience for participants.

Overview of the Salkantay Trek

The Salkantay Trek is a popular 5-day hiking adventure that takes trekkers through the stunning landscapes of Peru’s Cusco region.

Operated by Happy Gringo Tours, the trek covers a distance of approximately 55 kilometers, showcasing the majestic Salkantay mountain, glacial lakes, and lush cloud forests.

Trekkers are provided with meals, entrance fees, and essential equipment like sleeping bags and inflatable mattresses.

While the trek is physically demanding, it’s suitable for adventurous travelers with a strong fitness level.

The trek culminates in a visit to the iconic Machu Picchu, one of the New Seven Wonders of the World, providing a truly unforgettable experience.

Itinerary and Hiking Routes

On the first day of the Salkantay Trek, trekkers embark on a journey from Cusco, the ancient Inca capital, and venture into the stunning Salkantay mountain range. The trek takes them through diverse landscapes, from lush cloud forests to the awe-inspiring Salkantay Pass, standing at an impressive 4,630 meters (15,190 feet) above sea level. The second day sees trekkers descend into the tropical Andean valleys, where they are treated to views of the majestic Humantay glacier. The third and fourth days involve hiking through the remote Andean countryside, with the final day leading to the iconic ruins of Machu Picchu, the ultimate reward for their arduous journey.

Day	Destination	Elevation Gain/Loss
1	Cusco to Salkantay Trailhead	+1,100 m
2	Salkantay Pass to Wayra	+800 m/-1,000 m
3	Wayra to Chaullay	+200 m/-1,000 m
4	Chaullay to Hydroelectric Plant	+200 m/-300 m

Accommodations and Campsite Details

Four rustic campsites along the Salkantay Trek provide shelter and comfort for hikers. At these sites, participants can rest in sleeping bags and inflatable mattresses provided by the tour operator.

Basic toilet and washing facilities are available, though they’re rather basic. The campsites are situated amidst stunning mountain scenery, offering breathtaking views.

Hikers can enjoy hearty meals prepared by the accompanying chef, fueling them for the next day’s adventure. The campsites are selected to optimize the trek experience, ensuring travelers have a safe and comfortable place to recuperate after each challenging day on the trail.

Meals and Dietary Considerations

Hearty meals prepared by an accompanying chef fuel hikers for the challenges of the Salkantay Trek.

Breakfast, lunch, and dinner are included each day, featuring a mix of traditional Peruvian cuisine and international dishes. Vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options are available upon request.

The menu emphasizes locally-sourced ingredients and provides ample portions to keep energy levels high. Hikers can look forward to wholesome, nourishing meals that reinvigorate them for the day’s activities.

Snacks and drinking water are provided throughout the trek as well, ensuring travelers stay hydrated and energized.

Dietary requirements are carefully accommodated to ensure all participants can fully enjoy the culinary delights of the Salkantay experience.

Gear and Equipment Provided

Trekkers on the Salkantay Trek are always well-equipped with the necessary gear provided by the tour operator. This includes sleeping bags and inflatable mattresses to ensure a comfortable night’s rest in the great outdoors.

The tour also provides trekking poles, which are essential for navigating the rugged terrain and maintaining balance on steep ascents and descents.

With this high-quality equipment, travelers can focus on seeing the stunning natural landscapes without worrying about the logistics of their gear.

The all-inclusive nature of the trek’s equipment makes for a seamless and worry-free adventure.

Pickup and Meeting Logistics

The Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu provides convenient pickup services for participants.

Hikers are picked up from their hotels within the historic center of Cusco at 5:00 am to begin their adventure.

The trek’s meeting point is located in Aguas Calientes 08681, Peru, where hikers can redeem their tickets.

The key pickup and meeting details are:

1. Pickup from hotel within historic centre of Cusco
2. Start time: 05:00 am
3. Ticket Redemption Point: Aguas Calientes 08681, Peru

Health and Fitness Requirements

Is the Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu suitable for everyone? The trek requires a strong physical fitness level and is not recommended for those with certain medical conditions. Pregnant travelers and individuals with heart problems or serious medical issues should avoid this trek. To better understand the health and accessibility requirements, consider the following table:

Requirement	Details
Wheelchair Accessibility	Not wheelchair accessible
Pregnancy	Not recommended for pregnant travelers
Medical Conditions	Not suitable for individuals with heart problems or serious medical conditions
Physical Fitness	Strong physical fitness level required

While the trek is challenging, it offers an incredible opportunity to explore the stunning Salkantay mountain and reach the iconic Machu Picchu. Proper preparation and understanding of the physical demands are essential for a safe and enjoyable experience.

Reviews and Traveler Testimonials

Happy Gringo Tours’ Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu has received overwhelmingly positive reviews from travelers.

Based on 3 total reviews across Viator and Tripadvisor, the trek maintains a flawless 5.0-star rating.

Some key highlights from the traveler testimonials include:

1. Exceptional guides who are knowledgeable, attentive, and provide an immersive cultural experience.
2. High-quality equipment and camping gear that enhances comfort throughout the challenging trek.
3. Breathtaking scenery and a sense of accomplishment upon reaching the iconic Machu Picchu.

The reviews validate the trek’s exceptional value and underscore Happy Gringo Tours’ commitment to delivering an unforgettable adventure to Machu Picchu.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Trekking Gear?

Yes, travelers can bring their own trekking gear on the tour. However, the tour operator provides essential equipment like sleeping bags and inflatable mattresses, so bringing additional gear is optional and depends on personal preferences and needs.

Are There Any Age Restrictions for This Trek?

There are no stated age restrictions for the Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu. However, it’s recommended that travelers be in strong physical condition as the trek requires a high level of fitness and endurance.

How Much Extra Spending Money Is Recommended?

The recommended extra spending money for this trek varies, but travelers should budget around $200-$300 for personal expenses, snacks, tips, and any optional activities or souvenirs they wish to purchase along the way.

Can I Extend My Stay in Machu Picchu?

You can extend your stay in Machu Picchu after the trek. Many travelers choose to spend an extra day or two exploring the ruins and nearby attractions. Additional accommodations and transportation can be arranged through the tour operator or independently.

Are There Any Solo Traveler Discounts Available?

The tour operator, Happy Gringo Tours, does not offer any solo traveler discounts for the Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu. However, the tour is open to individual travelers and the maximum group size is limited to 15 participants.

Recap

The Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu is a captivating 5-day adventure through Peru’s breathtaking landscapes, culminating in the awe-inspiring Machu Picchu. Hikers will experience diverse terrains, rustic accommodations, and hearty meals, making it an ideal choice for adventurous travelers seeking an unforgettable journey. With essential gear provided and fitness requirements in place, this trek offers an exceptional opportunity to explore the wonders of the Cusco region.