Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu (5 Days)

Embarking on the captivating Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for adventurous travelers. This 5-day journey through Peru’s stunning landscapes offers a chance to take in the rich cultural heritage, while also pushing physical boundaries. With a 5.0 rating on popular review platforms, the trek caters to those with strong fitness levels, promising an unforgettable experience. As participants explore ancient Inca ruins and enjoy guided services, they’ll uncover the true essence of this remarkable destination. But what lies in store beyond the trek’s well-known highlights? The answer may surprise you.

Key Points

• This 5-day Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu is a challenging hiking adventure rated 5.0 based on 3 reviews and operated by Andes Peru Tour & Adventure.
• The trek includes transportation, train tickets, entrance fees, meals, and camping gear, but requires a strong fitness level and is not suitable for those with medical conditions or pregnancy.
• Highlights include traversing the Salkantay Pass for breathtaking views, exploring the cloud forest, and discovering ancient Inca ruins while immersed in Peru’s stunning natural landscapes.
• Optional activities, such as visits to Cocalmayo Hot Spring and climbing Huayna Picchu or Mountain Machu Picchu, are available for an additional cost to enhance the trekking experience.
• Booking and cancellation policies are established by the tour operator, with no refunds for cancellations and a requirement for a strong physical fitness level due to the strenuous nature of the trek.

Overview and Itinerary

The Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu is a 5-day hiking adventure that offers travelers a unique and breathtaking route to the iconic Incan ruins.

The trek has an impressive 5.0 rating based on 3 reviews across Viator and Tripadvisor. It can accommodate up to 9 travelers and is operated by Andes Peru Tour & Adventure.

The itinerary includes transportation from Cusco, train tickets, entrance fees, meals, camping equipment, and a professional guide.

While it’s not recommended for those with medical conditions or pregnant individuals, the trek requires a strong fitness level to complete the challenging hikes through the stunning Andes mountains.

Inclusions

The Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu package includes a range of essential services and amenities to enhance the trekking experience.

It includes:

• A train ticket from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo, as well as transfer from Cusco to Mollepata.
• Entrance fees to the iconic Machu Picchu site.
• 1 night’s accommodation in an ensuite room in Aguas Calientes, along with 4 lunches, 4 dinners, and 4 breakfasts (optional vegetarian).
• The services of a professional bilingual guide, cook, and assistants, plus a roomy dining tent and kitchen with chairs and tables.
• Transportation from Ollantaytambo to Cusco, and a bus from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu (additional $12 each way).
• Sleeping bags for the trek.

Optional Activities and Additional Costs

Along With the core trek, the Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu package offers two optional activities that come with additional costs.

Travelers can choose to hike up Huayna Picchu or climb the Mountain Machu Picchu, both of which cost an extra $30 per person. These optional climbs provide stunning views of the iconic Machu Picchu site from different vantage points.

Plus, visitors can also opt to visit the Cocalmayo Hot Spring, located near Aguas Calientes, which is payable on-site.

These add-ons provide opportunities to further explore and take in the stunning Andes landscape during the Salkantay Trek experience.

Pickup and Meeting Details

From your hotel within the historic center of Cusco, the trek operator will pick you up for the start of the Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu.

The pickup time may vary depending on your hotel’s location. Once you meet the group, you’ll board a vehicle and begin the journey to the trek’s starting point in Mollepata.

The ticket redemption point for this trek is located in Aguas Calientes 08681, Peru. This is where you’ll need to redeem your train ticket from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo.

The trek includes:

1. Pickup from your hotel in Cusco’s historic center
2. Transportation to the trek’s starting point in Mollepata
3. Ticket redemption in Aguas Calientes for the train journey back

Important Information

Confirmation is received at the time of booking for this Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu.

This trek isn’t wheelchair accessible and isn’t recommended for pregnant travelers or those with heart problems or serious medical conditions. A strong level of physical fitness is required.

The trek is non-refundable, and no refunds are given for cancellations. The tour is operated by Andes Peru Tour & Adventure.

The price starts at £665.82. Tips for the guide and horsemen aren’t included. Lunch and dinner on the last day are also not included.

Salkantay Trek Highlights

Commonly, the Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu is lauded for its stunning natural landscapes, challenging yet rewarding hiking, and the opportunity to take in Andean culture.

The highlights of this trek include:

1. Traversing the dramatic Salkantay Pass, which offers breathtaking vistas of snow-capped peaks and glacial lakes.

2. Exploring the lush, cloud forest-covered slopes, home to diverse flora and fauna.

3. Discovering the ancient Inca ruins and learning about the rich cultural heritage of the region from your knowledgeable guide.

Trekkers are rewarded with a sense of accomplishment and an unforgettable journey through some of Peru’s most stunning natural wonders.

Physical Preparation

The physical fitness level required for the Salkantay Trek is high, as the trek involves strenuous hiking over challenging terrain.

Participants should be able to comfortably hike for several hours each day, carrying a daypack. The trek includes steep ascents and descents, as well as hiking at high altitudes.

Those with pre-existing medical conditions, such as heart problems or serious illnesses, aren’t recommended to undertake the trek. A strong level of physical fitness and endurance is essential to fully enjoy and complete the Salkantay Trek.

Proper training and preparation prior to the trek is highly advised to ensure a safe and rewarding experience.

Booking and Cancellation Policy

Participants’ booking and cancellation for the Salkantay Trek are subject to specific policies. The tour is operated by Andes Peru Tour & Adventure, and the booking is non-refundable, with no refunds for cancellations.

Additionally:

1. Confirmation is received at the time of booking.
2. The trek isn’t wheelchair accessible and isn’t recommended for pregnant travelers or those with heart problems/serious medical conditions.
3. A strong physical fitness level is required, as the trek involves strenuous hiking.

Tips for the guide and horsemen aren’t included in the package price.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Average Group Size for the Trek?

The trek has a maximum group size of 9 travelers. The small group size allows for a more personalized and intimate trekking experience, ensuring each participant receives attentive care and guidance from the guides.

Can I Charge My Devices During the Trek?

The tour provides a roomy dining tent with chairs and tables, but there’s no mention of electrical outlets to charge devices during the trek. Travelers should ensure their devices are fully charged before the trek or bring portable power banks.

Is There a Weight Limit for Personal Belongings?

There’s no specified weight limit for personal belongings on this trek. However, porters carry the bulk of the group’s gear, so hikers should pack light and only bring essentials to minimize the weight they carry themselves.

Can I Hire a Porter to Carry My Bag?

Yes, porters can be hired to carry your bags during the trek. This service typically costs an additional fee and should be arranged with the tour operator in advance. Check if porter services are included in the package.

Is There Emergency Medical Support During the Trek?

Yes, the trek includes emergency medical support. A professional guide accompanies the group and first-aid kits are provided. Travelers with serious medical conditions are not recommended to undertake this trek.

Recap

The Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu offers an unforgettable 5-day adventure through Peru’s stunning landscapes. Rated 5.0, this challenging trek caters to physically fit hikers, providing guided services, culture, and the chance to explore ancient Inca ruins. Though optional activities come at an extra cost, the package’s inclusion of transportation, meals, and accommodation makes it a comprehensive and appealing choice for those seeking an extraordinary Machu Picchu experience.