The Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu is quickly becoming a popular choice for adventurous travelers seeking an immersive Andean experience. Combining stunning natural landscapes, luxury accommodations, and carefully curated logistics, this 5-day trek offers a unique opportunity to explore the rugged terrain of Peru’s Sacred Valley. From the tranquil shores of Humantay Lake to the challenging ascent of Salkantay Pass, each day of the journey presents new sights and challenges that leave a lasting impression on participants. But the true reward lies in the final destination – the awe-inspiring ruins of Machu Picchu, where the culmination of this unforgettable trek awaits.
Key Points
- A 5-day adventure covering approximately 42 miles (68 km) with luxury Sky Lodge Domes, private transportation, and professional bilingual guides.
- Highlights include hiking to Humantay Lake, Salkantay Pass, and the Original Inca Trail, with an overnight stay in Aguas Calientes.
- Comprehensive meal plan, private bathrooms, and first-aid equipment ensure a comfortable and safe trekking experience.
- Trek not recommended for pregnant women or individuals with back or heart issues; pre-trek briefing required.
- Limited to 8 participants, with a simple booking process and the option to pay later.
Trek Overview
The Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu is a 5-day adventure that covers a distance of approximately 42 miles (68 km).
Priced from €615.33 per person, this trek is limited to 8 participants and features live tour guides in Spanish and English.
Cancellations are eligible for a full refund up to 24 hours in advance.
The trek includes private transportation from Cusco, luxury Sky Lodge Domes with private bathrooms, and all meals.
Essentials like hiking gear and first aid equipment are provided.
However, the trek isn’t suitable for pregnant women or those with back or heart problems.
Ready to hit more trails? More hiking adventures we feature in Aguas Calientes
Itinerary Highlights
The 5-day Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu offers an exhilarating itinerary that showcases the stunning Andean landscapes.
On the first day, trekkers are picked up in Cusco, enjoy breakfast in Mollepata, and hike to Soraypampa to visit the turquoise Humantay Lake before spending the night in luxurious Sky Domes.
The second day starts early, with a hike to the Salkantay Pass for breathtaking views of the Andean peaks, followed by a descent to Chaullay.
On the third day, the trek continues through the Santa Teresa Valley, with an optional soak in hot springs before another night in Sky Domes.
The fourth day takes trekkers along the Original Inca Trail to the Llactapata Inca site, with options to hike or take the train to Aguas Calientes.
The final day includes a guided tour of the iconic Machu Picchu.
Accommodation and Meals
Luxury Sky Lodge Domes with private bathroom and hot shower provide a comfortable respite for trekkers throughout the 5-day journey.
Accommodations include:
- One night in a hotel in Aguas Calientes, situated at the base of Machu Picchu.
- Three nights in the custom-designed Sky Lodge Domes, offering panoramic views of the Andes.
- Delicious meals, including 4 breakfasts, 4 lunches, 4 dinners, and 3 snacks, ensuring trekkers stay fueled and energized.
The team of professional bilingual guides, horsemen, and mules ensure a seamless and enjoyable experience, allowing participants to focus on the stunning natural landscapes and the iconic Inca ruins.
Transportation and Guidance
From Cusco, private tourist transportation takes trekkers to the Salkantay Trailhead at Challacancha, marking the start of the adventure.
Along the way, a professional bilingual guide leads the group, sharing insights and ensuring a seamless experience.
Horsemen and mules transport the trekkers’ equipment, allowing them to focus on the journey.
The guide is equipped with a first aid kit, oxygen tank, and other essential gear to keep the group safe and comfortable throughout the trek.
With their expertise and the provided equipment, including optional rental of sleeping bags and trekking poles, trekkers can fully enjoy the stunning Andean landscapes.
More Great Thing To Do NearbyEquipment and Gear
Trekkers are provided with a comprehensive set of equipment and gear to ensure their comfort and safety throughout the Salkantay Trek. This includes:
-
Dining equipment, such as plates, utensils, and cups, to enjoy meals in the stunning Andean landscapes.
-
A first-aid kit and oxygen tank in case of emergencies, ensuring prompt medical attention if needed.
-
Sleeping bags and trekking poles available for rent, allowing trekkers to customize their gear to their individual needs and preferences.
These amenities, combined with the expertise of the professional bilingual guides and mule handlers, create a seamless and well-supported trekking experience.
Here are more great tours and experiences we've reviewed in Aguas Calientes
Health and Safety
Along With the comprehensive equipment and gear provided, the safety and well-being of trekkers are of utmost priority.
The Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu isn’t suitable for pregnant women or individuals with back or heart problems. A pre-trek briefing is scheduled the night before at 6:00 PM at your hotel in Cusco to ensure all participants are informed and prepared.
The tour guides are trained to handle emergencies, and the trek is equipped with a first-aid kit and oxygen tank.
Trekkers are advised to carefully consider their physical abilities and any pre-existing medical conditions before embarking on this adventure.
Pre-Trek Preparation
Preparing for the Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu is an essential step to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience.
The pre-trek briefing scheduled the night before at 6:00 PM provides key information to help guests prepare.
Guests should bring:
- Warm clothing, including a hat and gloves, to protect against the changing mountain temperatures.
- Sturdy, well-broken-in hiking shoes to navigate the varied terrain.
- A daypack to carry personal items and snacks during the trek.
These preparations, along with the guidance of the professional bilingual tour guide, will help trekkers feel confident and ready to embark on this unforgettable journey to Machu Picchu.
Booking and Availability
Booking the Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu is a straightforward process, with the option to reserve now and pay later.
Travelers can check the availability of starting times for the 5-day trek, which is limited to 8 participants.
The trek features a pre-trek briefing the night before in Cusco, where key details are discussed.
It’s important to note that the trek isn’t suitable for pregnant women or those with back or heart problems.
With a professional bilingual guide, luxury sky lodge domes, and included meals and transportation, the Salkantay Trek offers an immersive experience to reach the iconic Machu Picchu.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Bring My Own Sleeping Bag?
Yes, you can bring your own sleeping bag. However, sleeping bags are available for rent from the tour provider if you prefer not to bring your own. The choice is up to the individual traveler’s preference.
Is There an Option to Rent the Trekking Poles?
Yes, trekking poles are available for rent as part of the equipment provided for the trek. Customers can request to rent the trekking poles during the pre-trek briefing or when booking the tour.
What Is the Specific Time for the Pre-Trek Briefing?
The pre-trek briefing is scheduled for 6:00 PM the night before the trek at the participant’s hotel in Cusco. This provides an opportunity for final preparations and to address any remaining questions.
Is There an Additional Fee for the Inca Trail Portion?
The tour does not charge an additional fee for the Inca Trail portion. The cost covers private transportation, accommodations, meals, and a professional bilingual guide throughout the 5-day trek to Machu Picchu.
Can I Extend My Stay in Aguas Calientes?
Yes, you can extend your stay in Aguas Calientes. The tour package includes 1 night in a hotel there, but you can book additional nights if you’d like more time to explore the area before or after visiting Machu Picchu.
Recap
The Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu is an unforgettable 5-day adventure that combines breathtaking landscapes, luxury accommodations, and exceptional guidance. Hikers will enjoy private bathrooms, gourmet meals, and the opportunity to explore the Original Inca Trail, culminating in a guided tour of the iconic Machu Picchu. This immersive journey through the heart of the Andes promises an unparalleled experience for adventurous travelers.
You can check if your dates are available here:More 5-Day Experiences in Aguas Calientes
- Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu: Five Days
- SALKANTAY ROAD TO MACHUPICCHU 5 DAYS
- Hiking Adventure: Salkantay to Machu Picchu | 5 Days
- 5-Day Machu Picchu Adventure: Unveiling the Ancient Wonders
- Private -5 Days Cusco-Machu Picchu-Rainbow Mountain+Hotel 3☆
- Cuzco: Salkantay Trek 5-Day Andean Machu Picchu Expedition
More Hiking & Trekking Tours in Aguas Calientes
More Tour Reviews in Aguas Calientes
Not for you? Here's more things to do in Aguas Calientes we have recnetly reviewed
- 20 Best 2 Day Tours In Aguas Calientes
- 20 Best 3 Day Tours In Aguas Calientes
- 20 Best 4 Day Tours In Aguas Calientes
- 20 Best Full-Day Tours In Aguas Calientes
- 2 Best Food Tours In Aguas Calientes
- 12 Best Lunch Experiences In Aguas Calientes
- Private -5 Days Cusco-Machu Picchu-Rainbow Mountain+Hotel 4☆
- Lares Trek to Machu Picchu 4 D/3 N
- Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu 2 Days
- Cusco 4D Private | Humantay Lake, Machu Picchu | Hotel ☆☆☆
- Short Inca Trail To Machu Picchu
- Inka Jungle Trek to Machu Picchu 3 D/ 2 N