The 5-Day Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu is a must-try for adventure enthusiasts seeking an unforgettable journey through Peru’s stunning Andean landscape. This guided trek promises an enriching experience, offering comfortable accommodations, supported gear transport, and delectable meals. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or a novice explorer, the Salkantay Trek will leave you with memories that’ll captivate your senses long after the final steps.

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Key Points

5-day guided Salkantay Trek through scenic Andean landscapes, culminating at the iconic Inca citadel of Machu Picchu.
Trek starts at Soraypampa, avoiding the dusty Mollepata road, and is supported by experienced guides and horses for gear transport.
Comfortable accommodations include Andean huts, tents, and sleeping pads, with meals provided throughout the journey.
Hikers carry only a small daypack, with the option to rent sleeping bags and walking sticks for an additional cost.
Non-refundable trek price of $445.00 per person, with an additional $24.00 for the bus to Machu Picchu from Aguas Calientes.

Overview of the Trek

The 5-day Salkantay Trek takes adventurers on a journey through the breathtaking Andean landscape, culminating in a visit to the iconic Inca citadel of Machu Picchu.

Trekkers will experience dramatic mountain scenery, local culture, and the thrill of exploring ancient ruins. The route starts at Soraypampa, avoiding the dusty Mollepata road.

Guided by experienced professionals, hikers won’t have to carry heavy packs, as horses will transport the gear. Comfortable amenities like tents, sleeping pads, and Andean huts ensure a pleasant trekking experience before the grand finale at Machu Picchu.

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Detailed Itinerary

Day 1 starts with an early morning pickup from your hotel or designated meeting point in downtown Cusco.

You’ll drive for about 2.5 hours to Soraypampa, the starting point of the trek. After a quick breakfast, you’ll begin your hike along the Salkantay Trail, surrounded by breathtaking Andean landscapes.

Today’s trek takes you through lush forests and across a high mountain pass, offering panoramic views of the snow-capped Salkantay Peak.

You’ll arrive at your first campsite, where you’ll enjoy a delicious dinner and spend the night in a comfortable Andean hut.

Accommodation and Meals

On the Salkantay Trek, participants enjoy a comfortable night’s rest in a series of Andean huts along the way. The trekkers are provided with tents and sleeping pads to ensure warmth and insulation from the cool mountain temperatures. Delicious meals are included, with 4 breakfasts, 4 lunches, and 4 dinners served. Hikers need not carry heavy packs, as the trek is horse-supported.

Night	Accommodation	Meals
1	Andean Hut	Dinner
2	Andean Hut	Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
3	Andean Hut	Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
4	Aguas Calientes Hostel	Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Equipment and Gear

For the Salkantay Trek, hikers don’t have to worry about lugging heavy packs. The trek is fully supported by horses, which carry all the camping gear and group equipment.

Travelers only need to carry a small daypack with personal items like water, snacks, and extra layers. Sleeping bags and walking sticks are available for rent at an additional cost, though they’re not required.

The company provides comfortable, warm tents and sleeping pads for a good night’s rest in the Andes. The equipment and support on this trek allow hikers to focus on enjoying the stunning mountain scenery.

Pre-Trek Preparations

Preparing for the Salkantay Trek involves several key steps. Hikers should obtain the necessary travel documents, including a valid passport. Ensuring proper physical conditioning through regular exercise is also crucial. To assist with packing, the guide provides a helpful [packing list]. On the day of departure, it’s important to arrive at the designated meeting point on time to begin the unforgettable journey.

Packing Essentials	Recommended Gear
Hiking Boots	Warm Layers
Water Bottle	Rain Jacket
High-Calorie Snacks	Hiking Poles

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Group Size and Fitness Level

The Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu has a maximum group size of 15 travelers. This ensures a more intimate and personalized experience during the trek.

However, it’s important to note that this trek requires a strong level of physical fitness. Pregnant travelers, those with back problems, or serious medical conditions aren’t recommended to participate. The trail isn’t wheelchair accessible, and infants must sit on laps.

Travelers should ensure they’ve the necessary stamina and endurance to complete the 5-day journey through the dramatic Andean terrain. Proper preparation is key to enjoying this unforgettable trek to the ancient Inca citadel of Machu Picchu.

Payment and Cancellation Policies

When booking the 5-day Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu, travelers should be aware of the payment and cancellation policies. The starting price is $445.00 per person, with optional extras like sleeping bags ($20.00) and walking sticks ($20.00). Travelers must also pay for the bus to Machu Picchu from Aguas Calientes ($24.00). This trek is non-refundable, and no refunds will be given for cancellations. Passport details are required at booking, and a valid passport is needed on the travel day.

Payment	Cancellation
Starting price: $445.00	Non-refundable
Optional extras:	No refunds
– Sleeping bags: $20.00
– Walking sticks: $20.00
Bus to Machu Picchu: $24.00

Meeting and Pickup Information

For those joining the 5-day Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu, the tour company offers pickup from any hotel, hostel, or apartment in downtown Cusco.

Those staying further out can opt for an alternative pickup at the Cusco Cathedral gate.

The trek departs promptly at 5:00 AM, so travelers should be ready at their pickup location on time.

It’s important to provide the tour company with accurate passport details, including name, number, expiry, and country, at the time of booking.

A current valid passport is required on the day of travel.

Sum Up

The 5-Day Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu is an unforgettable adventure through the stunning Andean landscape. With comfortable accommodations, support from horses, and guided by experienced professionals, hikers can focus on the journey and enjoy the breathtaking scenery, culminating at the iconic Inca citadel. This trek offers an enriching experience for all participants, providing an opportunity to discover the beauty and history of the region.