5 Day Humantay Lake & Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu

The 5 Day Humantay Lake & Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu in 2024 promises an unforgettable journey through the breathtaking Peruvian Andes. With a small group size and expert guidance, this immersive adventure offers the opportunity to disconnect from the everyday and connect with nature and culture. From camping under the stars to exploring the stunning glacial Humantay Lake, the trek promises an unparalleled experience for those in strong physical shape. But what hidden gems await those who embark on this incredible journey?

Key Points

• A 5-day trekking adventure in the Peruvian Andes, featuring the stunning Humantay Lake and the iconic Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu.
• Comprehensive itinerary with transportation, expert tour leader, and all necessary equipment and meals provided.
• Maximum group size of 10 ensures a personalized and immersive experience in the natural wonders of the region.
• Strong physical fitness level required due to the strenuous nature and high altitudes of the trek.
• Non-refundable tour with strict cancellation policy; optional add-ons available for sleeping gear and entrance to additional sites.

Overview and Recommendations

The 5 Day Humantay Lake & Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu is a highly recommended adventure for travelers seeking an immersive experience in the Peruvian Andes.

With a 100% recommendation rate from 16 reviews, this trek offers a comprehensive itinerary that includes transportation, an expert tour leader, and entrance fees to key sites.

Hikers will enjoy camping under the stars and savoring meals prepared by a chef.

Though physically demanding, the trek’s maximum group size of 10 ensures a personalized experience.

It’s an excellent choice for active travelers seeking an unforgettable journey to the iconic Machu Picchu.

Inclusions and Accommodations

This trek includes comprehensive transportation, from bus to Expedition Train, as well as a dedicated tour leader to guide travelers throughout the journey.

Accommodation is a mix of camping and one night in a hotel. Camping equipment, such as tents, tables, and chairs, is provided.

Meals include 5 breakfasts, 4 lunches, and 4 dinners prepared by a chef. Optional add-ons include sleeping bags, poles, and air mattresses.

Travelers can also purchase tickets to climb Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain.

This trek isn’t wheelchair accessible, but service animals are allowed, and infant seats are available.

Pickup and Schedule

Pickup for the 5 Day Humantay Lake & Salkantay Trek takes place from hotels. The tour starts promptly at 4:00 am, allowing for a full day of trekking and exploration.

The group size is limited to a maximum of 10 travelers, ensuring a personalized experience.

A small group size of 10 travelers ensures a personalized, intimate experience on this Andean adventure.

The schedule includes:

1. Early morning departure from Cusco hotels.

2. Arrival at the trailhead to begin the scenic Salkantay Trek.

3. Reaching Humantay Lake, a stunning glacial lake, before continuing to the campsite.

This carefully planned itinerary maximizes the time spent experiencing the natural wonders of the Andes.

Health and Accessibility

The 5 Day Humantay Lake & Salkantay Trek isn’t wheelchair accessible, though service animals are allowed.

It’s located near public transportation, but infants must sit on laps with infant seats available.

The trek isn’t recommended for travelers with back problems, pregnant individuals, or those with serious medical conditions, as a strong physical fitness level is required.

This is due to the strenuous nature of the hike and the high altitudes involved.

Travelers should carefully consider their health and abilities before booking this adventure.

Pricing and Cancellation Policy

The 5 Day Humantay Lake & Salkantay Trek is priced from $600.00 per person. This non-refundable tour has a strict cancellation policy – no refunds are granted for cancellations.

However, the 5.0 rating based on 16 reviews across Viator and Tripadvisor suggests this trek is highly recommended by travelers.

Key considerations include:

1. The tour includes entrance fees, transportation, camping equipment, and meals prepared by a chef.

2. Optional add-ons like sleeping bags, poles, and air mattresses are available for an additional fee.

3. Entrance to Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain can be purchased for $30 per person.

Highlights of the Trek

As travelers embark on this 5-day Humantay Lake and Salkantay Trek, they’ll be treated to a breathtaking journey through Peru’s stunning Andes mountain range.

The trek features a visit to the turquoise waters of Humantay Lake, set against the dramatic backdrop of snow-capped peaks. Hikers will traverse the iconic Salkantay Trail, reaching an elevation of 15,213 feet before descending to the cloud forest and Aguas Calientes, the gateway to Machu Picchu.

Along the way, travelers will camp under the stars, savor delicious meals prepared by a chef, and marvel at the region’s diverse flora and fauna.

What to Expect on the Trek

Embarking on the 5-day Humantay Lake and Salkantay Trek, trekkers can expect a challenging yet rewarding journey through Peru’s majestic Andes.

The trek features:

1. Ascending to the turquoise waters of Humantay Lake, nestled beneath towering glacial peaks.

2. Traversing the Salkantay Pass, offering panoramic vistas of snow-capped mountains and alpine meadows.

3. Descending into lush cloud forests, where the air is crisp and the vegetation lush.

Trekkers must be prepared for long days of hiking, rapidly changing weather conditions, and camping in remote areas.

A high level of physical fitness is essential to fully enjoy this awe-inspiring adventure.

The Sum Up

The Humantay Lake & Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu offers an unforgettable 5-day adventure through Peru’s stunning Andes. With expert guidance, comprehensive transportation, and chef-prepared meals, this immersive experience promises an unparalleled opportunity to connect with nature and culture. Designed for those in strong physical shape, the trek’s maximum group size of 10 ensures an intimate and personalized journey.