5-Day Tour Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu

The Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu offers an exhilarating and scenic alternative to the classic Inca Trail. Trekkers will traverse breathtaking landscapes, including the towering Salkantay Pass, while seeing Inca history and culture. With skilled guides, delectable Peruvian cuisine, and the awe-inspiring finale at Machu Picchu, this five-day adventure promises an unforgettable experience. But what makes this trek truly remarkable is the chance to connect with the natural beauty and ancient wonders of the Andes.

Key Points

• A 5-day hiking expedition that takes you through the stunning Salkantay Pass and culminates with a visit to the iconic Machu Picchu.
• Includes comfortable camping accommodations, delicious Peruvian cuisine, and an experienced guide team to enhance your trekking experience.
• Explore ancient Inca ruins, soak in therapeutic hot springs, and marvel at the natural beauty of glacial lakes and mountain landscapes.
• Suitable for travelers with a strong fitness level, as the trek involves up to 8 hours of hiking per day.
• Maximum group size of 9 ensures a personalized and supported experience throughout the journey.

Overview of the Salkantay Trek

The Salkantay Trek is a popular hiking route that takes travelers through the stunning landscapes of the Cusco region.

This 5-day trek offers an adventurous alternative to the classic Inca Trail, with challenging mountain passes, glacial lakes, and remote Andean villages.

Hikers will traverse the Salkantay Pass, reaching an elevation of over 15,000 feet, before descending into the lush cloud forest and making the final ascent to the iconic Machu Picchu.

The trek is renowned for its diverse ecosystem, rich cultural heritage, and the sense of accomplishment that comes with completing this remarkable journey.

Highlights of the Itinerary

This 5-day tour promises a captivating journey through the heart of the Andes.

You’ll trek the challenging Salkantay pass, reaching an impressive 15,213 feet (4,630 meters) above sea level. Enjoy the stunning glacial landscapes before descending into the lush cloud forests.

Along the way, you’ll visit the ancient Inca ruins of Paucarcancha and enjoy a soak in the therapeutic hot springs of Aguas Calientes.

The grand finale is the awe-inspiring Machu Picchu, where you’ll explore the iconic citadel and soak in the breathtaking vistas.

This trek offers an unforgettable blend of natural beauty and culture.

Accommodation and Meals

Travelers enjoy a 5-star camping experience throughout the trek. Participants sleep in comfortable tents and dine on delicious meals prepared by a professional chef.

Breakfasts include hearty options like eggs, pancakes, and fresh fruit. Lunches and dinners feature local Peruvian cuisine, such as roasted guinea pig, lomo saltado, and quinoa dishes. Snacks and hot drinks are provided during breaks. The chef ensures all dietary requirements are met.

Campsites are carefully selected for their scenic beauty and proximity to points of interest along the route. Travelers indulge in the natural surroundings and stunning mountain vistas while savoring each meal.

Guide and Support Team

An experienced, knowledgeable, and attentive team of guides and support staff accompany travelers throughout the 5-day Salkantay Trek. The tour is led by English-speaking guides who provide fascinating historical and cultural insights. In addition, a professional chef is on hand to prepare delicious, locally-sourced meals. Supporting the team are mule handlers who transport the camping gear and equipment.

Guide Qualifications	Chef Credentials	Mule Handler Experience
– Fluent in English	– Specializes in Peruvian cuisine	– Familiar with Andes terrain
– Extensive Inca Trail experience	– Uses fresh, local ingredients	– Skilled in moving equipment
– Trained in wilderness first aid	– Accommodates dietary needs	– Ensures animals’ well-being

The dedicated team ensures a safe, comfortable, and enriching trekking experience.

Equipment and Gear

All the necessary camping equipment and gear are provided for the 5-day Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu. This includes sturdy tents, comfortable sleeping mats, folding tables, and chairs.

Mules and muleteers carry this equipment, so you don’t have to worry about lugging it yourself. The tour also includes a professional chef who prepares delicious meals using quality ingredients.

Plus, you’ll have access to hot springs in Aguas Calientes, providing a chance to relax and rejuvenate.

With all the essentials taken care of, you can focus on enjoying the stunning Andean landscapes.

Health and Fitness Considerations

This 5-day Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu isn’t recommended for travelers with limited mobility or serious medical conditions.

The trek requires a strong fitness level, as it involves hiking for multiple hours each day across rugged mountain terrain. Participants should be able to hike for up to 8 hours at a time.

The maximum group size is 9 travelers, ensuring a more personalized experience. Pregnant women and those with back problems are advised against joining this tour.

Detailed health and physical requirements are available upon request to ensure the trek is suitable for each participant.

Arrival and Departure Details

The tour begins at 6:00 am with a pickup at the Inca statue in Plaza Mayor del Cusco, where you will meet their tour guide and the rest of the group. The tour then ends at the same meeting point, with the group being dropped off after their Machu Picchu adventure.

Pickup Details	Meeting Point	Start Time
Directly at meeting point	Inca statue, Plaza Mayor del Cusco	06:00 am
Request pickup	–	–

Drop-Off Details	Meeting Point	End Time
Return to meeting point	Inca statue, Plaza Mayor del Cusco	–

Booking and Cancellation Policy

Booking this 5-Day Tour to Machu Picchu requires a non-refundable deposit. The total price is $749 per person.

Payment methods include credit card or wire transfer. Travelers can’t receive refunds for cancellations. However, they can use the paid amount towards a future tour within one year.

Confirmation is provided at the time of booking. Additional details are available upon request.

This tour has a maximum of 9 travelers. Strong physical fitness is required, as it’s not suitable for those with back problems, pregnancy, or serious medical conditions.

Wheelchair access is also not available.

Sum Up

The Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu offers an unparalleled adventure through Peru’s stunning landscapes. Trekkers will be rewarded with breathtaking vistas, ancient Inca ruins, and the chance to experience the majesty of Machu Picchu. With expert guides, delicious cuisine, and comfortable accommodations, this trek provides an unforgettable journey into the heart of the Andes.