8-Day Salkantay Trek Tour to Machu Picchu From Cusco

Embarking on the 8-day Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu is a must for adventurous travelers. This tour takes hikers through stunning Andean landscapes, immersing them in Inca and colonial history. With comfortable accommodations, delicious meals, and expert guides, the trek promises an unforgettable experience. But the real highlight? Witnessing the awe-inspiring ruins of Machu Picchu, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Those seeking an active yet culturally enriching journey won’t want to miss this…

Key Points

• This 8-day tour combines a 5-day Salkantay trek with exploration of Cusco, the Sacred Valley, and Machu Picchu.
• The tour includes 3-star hotel stays, select meals, and transportation with an experienced English-speaking guide.
• Trekkers will learn about traditional Andean weaving and dyeing practices in Chinchero.
• The Salkantay trek is a challenging but rewarding alternative to the crowded Inca Trail.
• Participants must be at least 10 years old and have a moderate level of physical fitness.

Tour Overview and Highlights

The Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu is an 8-day adventure that’s highly recommended by 100% of travelers who’ve experienced it.

You’ll explore Inca and colonial history in Cusco and the Sacred Valley. In Chinchero, you’ll learn traditional dyeing and weaving techniques.

Then, you’ll embark on a five-day trek along the Salkantay route, an alternative to the Inca Trail, before finally discovering the UNESCO-listed Machu Picchu with guided tours and free time.

With comfortable lodgings, delicious meals, and expert guides, this trek offers an unforgettable journey through Peru’s stunning landscapes.

Accommodation and Meals

During the Salkantay Trek, travelers can expect 3 nights in 3-star hotels, including a hotel in Aguas Calientes. Meals are included – 7 breakfasts, 4 lunches, and 4 dinners.

After a long day of trekking, hikers can look forward to comfy lodgings and camping under the stars. For those who want an extra layer of warmth, there’s the option to rent a sleeping bag.

The chef and mules will handle the cooking and camping equipment, so trekkers can focus on the stunning scenery along the way.

Included Services and Equipment

To ensure a seamless trek, the tour package includes all necessary transfers and tours.

You’ll be accompanied by an experienced English-speaking guide and assistant for groups of 9 or more.

The team also provides a chef and mules to handle the cooking and camping gear, so you can focus on enjoying the journey.

For your safety, the tour includes an oxygen bottle and first-aid kit.

When you reach Machu Picchu, a round-trip bus ticket from Aguas Calientes to the site is provided, as well as transportation from Ollantaytambo back to Cusco.

Preparation and Requirements

Although the Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu is a rewarding experience, it does require a moderate level of physical fitness. The minimum age for the trek is 10 years, but it’s not recommended for those with serious medical conditions. Participants should come prepared with suitable gear like walking boots, waterproof jackets, and warm layers. Don’t forget your original passport and ISIC card for student discounts. The trek isn’t wheelchair accessible, so keep that in mind when booking.

Requirements	Details
Age	Minimum 10 years
Fitness	Moderate level
Medical	No serious conditions
Gear	Appropriate for hiking
Documents	Passport, ISIC card
Accessibility	Not wheelchair-friendly

Booking and Cancellation Policy

How much does the Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu tour cost? The tour price starts from $1,269.00 per person.

It’s important to note that this tour is non-refundable, so there are no refunds for cancellations.

When booking the tour, you’ll need to provide your original passport and ISIC card (if applicable) for any student discounts.

Contact Inkayni for specific requirements and flight information you’ll need to provide upon booking.

Be mindful of the tour’s preparation and requirements, as it’s not recommended for those with serious medical conditions and requires a moderate fitness level.

Exploring Cusco and the Sacred Valley

What better way to start the Salkantay Trek than by exploring the vibrant city of Cusco and the enchanting Sacred Valley?

In Cusco, you’ll stroll through the charming plazas and discover the blend of Inca and Spanish colonial architecture. Visit the iconic Inca ruins of Sacsayhuaman, where you’ll marvel at the impressive stone fortifications.

Then, venture into the Sacred Valley, stopping in the picturesque town of Chinchero to learn traditional weaving and dyeing techniques.

Other highlights include:

1. Touring the Inca fortress of Ollantaytambo
2. Visiting the colorful Pisac market
3. Exploring the ancient salt pans of Maras
4. Marveling at the stunning Moray agricultural terraces.

The Salkantay Trek Experience

After soaking in the history and culture of Cusco and the Sacred Valley, trekkers embark on the heart of the adventure – the Salkantay Trek.

This five-day hike along the Salkantay route offers an alternative to the crowded Inca Trail. Trekkers will marvel at the dramatic landscapes, from high mountain passes to lush cloud forests.

Though physically demanding, experienced guides ensure a safe and comfortable journey, with cozy lodgings and hearty meals.

Reaching the iconic Machu Picchu is the ultimate reward, providing a sense of accomplishment and lifelong memories.

The Salkantay Trek promises an unforgettable experience off the beaten path.

Discovering Machu Picchu

Upon reaching the iconic Machu Picchu, the culmination of the Salkantay Trek, trekkers are rewarded with a guided tour that brings the ancient Inca citadel to life.

The tour highlights include:

1. Exploring the iconic ruins and learning about their fascinating history.
2. Marveling at the stunning vistas from the Sun Gate and Inca Bridge.
3. Discovering the architectural wonders of the Inca, like the Temple of the Sun.
4. Gaining a deeper understanding of the Inca’s way of life and spiritual beliefs.

Trekkers can also enjoy free time to wander the site independently and capture the breathtaking scenery.

Sum Up

The 8-day Salkantay Trek Tour to Machu Picchu offers an unforgettable adventure. Trekkers will be immersed in Inca and colonial history, explore vibrant cultures, and marvel at the beauty of Machu Picchu. With comfortable accommodations, delicious meals, and expert guides, this tour ensures a memorable experience while promoting physical fitness and adventure amidst breathtaking landscapes.