5 Day – Salkantay Trek

The Salkantay Trek offers adventurous travelers a chance to explore the stunning Andes mountains of Peru. This 5-day hike takes trekkers through diverse landscapes, from glaciers to cloud forests, culminating at the iconic Machu Picchu. Though moderately challenging, the trek provides a unique blend of natural beauty and cultural experiences that make it a top choice for outdoor enthusiasts. With provided meals, camping gear, and porters to carry personal belongings, participants can focus on seeing the breathtaking scenery and rich Incan heritage. Those seeking an unforgettable journey through the Peruvian Andes won’t want to miss this remarkable opportunity.

About Your Stay

• The Salkantay Trek is a challenging 5-day hike through the Andes mountains in Peru, ending at the iconic Machu Picchu site.
• The trek features glaciers, alpine lakes, and cloud forests, offering an unforgettable adventure experience in the Peruvian Andes.
• Accommodations include camping and one night stay in a hostel in Aguas Calientes, with meals and camping equipment provided.
• Transportation includes pickup from Cusco, horses to carry personal gear, and train and bus transfers to and from Machu Picchu.
• The trek requires moderate physical fitness due to the high-altitude hiking and challenging terrain, so it may not be suitable for all travelers.

Overview of the Salkantay Trek

The Salkantay Trek is a challenging yet rewarding multi-day hike through the stunning Andes mountains of Peru. This 5-day trek takes adventurers on a journey past glaciers, alpine lakes, and cloud forests before reaching the iconic ruins of Machu Picchu.

The trek is rated as moderately difficult, requiring a moderate level of physical fitness. Trekkers will overnight in campsites and a hostel, with meals and transportation provided.

With impressive views and the chance to explore one of the world’s most famous archaeological sites, the Salkantay Trek offers an unforgettable experience for those seeking an adventure in the Peruvian Andes.

Detailed Itinerary

This 5-day Salkantay Trek begins with a pre-trek briefing at the traveler’s hotel the night before departure.

The first day starts with a pickup from the hotel and transport to Challacancha, the trailhead.

Over the next four days, travelers will trek through the Andes, passing by glacial peaks, lush valleys, and remote villages.

They’ll enjoy hearty meals, camp under the stars, and have the opportunity to visit the iconic Machu Picchu.

The trek concludes with a train ride back to Ollantaytambo and transport to Cusco.

Throughout the journey, horses will carry the group’s belongings.

Accommodation and Meals

During the 5-day Salkantay Trek, travelers enjoy a night’s stay at a hostel in Aguas Calientes.

Meals are provided throughout the trek, including 4 breakfasts, 4 lunches, and 4 dinners. Snacks and bottled water are also available during the tour.

The trek includes camping equipment like tents, sleeping mats, and sleeping bags.

Horses are available to carry up to 8 kg of personal belongings per person.

The tour also covers entrance fees to Machu Picchu, Huayna Picchu, Machu Picchu Mountain, and Salkantay, as well as the hot springs.

Transportation and Logistics

For the 5-Day Salkantay Trek, transportation and logistics are meticulously handled. Guests are picked up from their Cusco hotel and transported to the trek’s starting point at Challacancha.

During the trek, horses carry up to 8kg of each traveler’s gear.

Upon completing the hike, a train whisks hikers from the hydroelectric station to Aguas Calientes. Then, buses transport them to and from the entrance of Machu Picchu.

The return journey takes travelers by train from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo, followed by a transfer back to Cusco.

Seamless logistics ensure guests can focus on the breathtaking trek.

Included Activities and Entrance Fees

The 5-Day Salkantay Trek includes a comprehensive set of activities and entrance fees.

Travelers will enjoy 1 night’s accommodation in a hostel in Aguas Calientes. Meals, including 4 breakfasts, 4 lunches, and 4 dinners, are provided, along with snacks and bottled water during the tour.

The tour includes transportation, such as hotel pickup, travel from Cusco to Challacancha, and return train tickets from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo.

Entrance fees to Machu Picchu, Huayna Picchu, Machu Picchu Mountain, and the Salkantay and hot springs are also covered.

Camping equipment and horses to carry up to 8 kg of baggage per person are included as well.

Health and Fitness Considerations

The 5-Day Salkantay Trek isn’t recommended for travelers with certain health conditions or accessibility needs.

The trek requires a moderate level of physical fitness, as it involves hiking at high altitudes and over challenging terrain. Travelers with back problems, pregnant women, and those with heart conditions or other serious medical issues should avoid this trek.

The Salkantay Trek requires moderate fitness, as it involves hiking at high altitudes and challenging terrain. Those with health issues should avoid this trek.

Accessibility is also a concern, as the trail isn’t wheelchair-friendly. Potential participants should carefully consider their health and fitness level before booking this tour.

Safety is the top priority, so these restrictions are in place to ensure an enjoyable and successful journey.

Booking and Contact Information

Inca Path Tour Operator provides the 5-Day Salkantay Trek, which can be booked through their website or by contacting their office in Cusco.

The tour costs from $370 per person, and travelers can take advantage of the free cancellation policy up to 24 hours before the experience starts. Guests can reserve the tour now and pay later, offering flexibility.

The tour redemption point is at De La Raza 548, Cusco 08002, Peru, and the tour operates daily from 12:00 AM to 11:30 PM between November 21, 2019, and March 12, 2026.

Questions About Your Stay

Can I Bring My Own Camping Gear?

Yes, you can bring your own camping gear on this tour. However, the tour provider offers camping equipment as part of the included amenities, so bringing your own gear may not be necessary.

Is There an Option to Upgrade Accommodation?

Yes, there’s an option to upgrade accommodation. You can upgrade to a hotel in Aguas Calientes instead of the included hostel for an additional fee. This provides more comfort and amenities during your Machu Picchu visit.

How Much Gratuity Should I Budget for the Guides?

The recommended gratuity for the guides on this tour is typically $5-$10 USD per traveler per day. This covers the efforts of the guide, cook, and porters in ensuring a memorable and comfortable trekking experience.

Can I Extend the Trek by Additional Days?

Yes, you can extend the 5-day Salkantay Trek by additional days. The tour operator offers flexibility to customize the itinerary based on your preferences and fitness level. Contact them to discuss options for extending the trek.

What Is the Cancellation Policy for This Tour?

The cancellation policy for this tour is free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience starts, providing flexibility for travelers to change their plans if needed.

Final Verdict On This Stay

The Salkantay Trek offers an unforgettable adventure through Peru’s stunning Andes mountains, culminating at the iconic Machu Picchu. Hikers will navigate diverse landscapes, enjoy overnight camping with provided meals and equipment, and experience a unique blend of natural beauty and cultural experiences. With a moderate difficulty level, the trek is suitable for outdoor enthusiasts seeking a challenging yet rewarding expedition.