5-Day Salkantay Guided Trekking Tour

The 5-Day Salkantay Guided Trekking Tour is an exceptional opportunity for adventurous travelers to explore the stunning Cusco region of Peru. Priced at $500 per person, this all-inclusive package offers a seamless experience with expert guides fluent in English and Spanish. From moderate to challenging hikes to camping under the stars and visiting ancient ruins, this trek promises an unforgettable journey. With a flexible payment option and free cancellation, it’s an ideal choice for those seeking an adventure-filled exploration of Peru’s natural beauty and rich history.

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Key Points

Key Points:

5-day guided adventure in Peru’s Cusco region, including camping, transportation, and entrance tickets, priced at $500 per person.
Trekking itinerary includes hiking from Cusco to Lake Humantay, ascending to Salkantay Pass, exploring Santa Teresa Valley, and visiting Machu Picchu.
Day 1 features a moderate 10km hike to Lake Humantay, with breathtaking views and camp setup at Quiswarniyoc.
Day 2 involves a challenging 22km ascent to Salkantay Pass at 4,700 meters, followed by a descent to Chawllay Camp.
Day 4 includes a strenuous 24km hike along the Inca Trail, with exploration of the ancient Llactapata ruins and panoramic views of Machu Picchu.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

The Salkantay Trekking Tour is a 5-day guided adventure that showcases the stunning natural scenery and cultural heritage of Peru’s Cusco region.

Priced at $500 per person, it offers a reserve now and pay later option. Travelers can enjoy free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

This all-inclusive Salkantay Trekking Tour is priced at $500 per person with a reserve now and pay later option and free 24-hour cancellation.

The tour is led by live guides fluent in English and Spanish. Hiking difficulty ranges from moderate to challenging, with the maximum altitude reaching 4,700 meters.

This all-inclusive package includes camping equipment, transportation, entrance tickets, and more, making it an excellent value for adventurous travelers.

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Trekking Itinerary

Spanning five captivating days, the Salkantay Trekking Tour takes adventurers on a remarkable journey through the stunning landscapes of Peru’s Cusco region.

The itinerary includes:

Day 1: Hike from Cusco to the picturesque Lake Humantay, then camp at Quiswarniyoc.
Day 2: Ascend to the challenging Salkantay Pass, then descend to the Chawllay Camp.
Day 3: Explore the serene Santa Teresa Valley, camp at Lucmabamba, and visit the relaxing thermal baths.
Day 4: Traverse the Inca Trail to Llactapata, discover ancient ruins, and hike to Aguas Calientes.

Day 1: Cusco to Lake Humantay, Camp at Quiswarniyoc

Your Salkantay Trekking adventure begins with a hike from Cusco to the stunning Lake Humantay.

The moderate 10km trek takes 5-6 hours and climbs to an altitude of 4,000m. Along the way, you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking views of the glacier-capped peaks of the Andes.

Upon reaching Lake Humantay, you’ll set up camp at Quiswarniyoc. This day sets the tone for the challenging days ahead, as you acclimate to the high altitude and build momentum for the journey.

Enjoy a hearty breakfast, lunch, and dinner prepared by your guides as you take in the serene mountain landscape.

Day 2: Quiswarniyoc to Salkantay Pass, Descend to Chawllay Camp

After a restful night at Quiswarniyoc, trekkers embark on the challenging second day. They ascend towards the Salkantay Pass, the high point of the trek at 4,700 meters.

The hike is long and strenuous, covering 22 km over 9-10 hours. Along the way, they’ll:

Marvel at the majestic Salkantay glacier and snow-capped peaks.
Push through the thin air at high altitude.
Carefully navigate the steep, rocky terrain.
Celebrate reaching the pass with awe-inspiring panoramic views.

The descent to Chawllay Camp provides a well-earned respite before the next leg of the journey.

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Day 3: Explore Santa Teresa Valley, Camp at Lucmabamba, Visit Thermal Baths

Leaving the challenging ascent behind, trekkers now enter the tranquil Santa Teresa Valley.

Here, the trail winds through lush forests and alongside a rushing river. The day’s hike is relatively easy, covering 16 km (10 miles) over 5-6 hours at an altitude of 2,000 m.

Trekkers will stop to explore the village of Lucmabamba and set up camp. In the afternoon, they can visit the nearby Aguas Termales Cocalmayo Hot Springs to soak tired muscles.

Dinner is served at the campsite, providing an opportunity to recount the day’s adventures before turning in for the night.

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Day 4: Hike Inca Trail to Llactapata, Explore Ruins, Hike to Aguas Calientes

On the fourth day, trekkers embark on a challenging hike along the famous Inca Trail, covering a distance of 24 km (15 miles) over 8-9 hours.

A challenging 24 km (15 mile) hike along the historic Inca Trail over 8-9 hours on the fourth day.

They’ll explore the ancient Llactapata ruins and enjoy panoramic views of Machu Picchu in the distance. The hike is considered challenging due to the steep terrain and high altitude of 2,700 m.

The highlights of the day include:

Trekking the historic Inca Trail to Llactapata
Discovering the well-preserved Llactapata archaeological site
Catching breathtaking views of the iconic Machu Picchu
Descending to the town of Aguas Calientes, the gateway to Machu Picchu.

Day 5: Explore Machu Picchu, Return to Cusco

The fifth and final day of the Salkantay trekking tour begins with an early morning hike from the town of Aguas Calientes to the iconic Machu Picchu.

This 1.5-hour trek leads trekkers to the ancient Inca citadel, where they’ll have ample time to explore the ruins, take in the breathtaking vistas, and learn about the site’s rich history from their guide.

After the tour, the group will return to Aguas Calientes to catch the train back to Ollantaytambo and then transfer by bus to Cusco, arriving in the late afternoon or early evening, marking the end of this unforgettable Salkantay trekking adventure.

Highlights and Experiences

The Salkantay trekking tour offers travelers a chance to witness the scenic grandeur of the Andes.

Among the highlights are:

Panoramic views of the majestic Nevado Salkantay, glaciers, rivers, and valleys that showcase the region’s natural beauty.
Cultural encounters and exploration of archaeological sites, providing insight into the rich history and traditions of the Inca civilization.
A relaxing visit to the thermal baths in Santa Teresa, offering a rejuvenating break during the trek.
A descent through the lush Amazon jungle, offering a unique perspective on the diverse ecosystems of the region.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Altitude Sickness a Concern During the Trek?

Altitude sickness is a potential concern during this trek, as it reaches elevations over 4,700 meters. Travelers should acclimatize properly, stay hydrated, and monitor their symptoms. The tour company provides guidance on managing altitude effects.

Can I Bring My Own Camping Gear Instead of the Provided Equipment?

You can bring your own camping gear, but the tour provider recommends using their high-quality equipment. This ensures proper gear for the trek and convenience, as the provider transports the camping equipment.

What Is the Best Time of Year to Do This Trek?

The best time to do the Salkantay trek is during the dry season, from May to September. This offers clear skies, moderate temperatures, and fewer crowds, making for an optimal trekking experience.

How Much Time Do We Have to Explore Machu Picchu?

Travelers will have about 1.5 hours to explore Machu Picchu on the last day of the tour. They’ll hike from Aguas Calientes to the ruins early in the morning before returning to Cusco.

Can I Extend the Tour to Include Additional Activities?

The 5-day tour can be extended to include additional activities. Travelers can add extra days to explore Machu Picchu in more depth or participate in optional excursions like hiking the Inca Trail. Additional fees may apply for any tour extensions.

The Sum Up

The 5-day Salkantay Guided Trekking Tour offers an unforgettable adventure through Peru’s stunning Cusco region. Priced at $500 per person, the all-inclusive package provides expert guides, moderate to challenging hikes, visits to ancient ruins, and a final exploration of Machu Picchu. With flexible payment options and free cancellation, this trek is an ideal choice for adventurous travelers seeking to enjoy Peru’s breathtaking landscapes and rich history.

You can check availability for your dates here: