5 Days Salkantay Guided Trekking Tour

Exploring the Andes on a 5-day Salkantay trekking tour offers an unparalleled adventure. Trekkers will cross high mountain passes, descend into lush cloud forests, and witness the iconic Machu Picchu. With quality gear, hearty meals, and a moderate fitness level, this tour connects travelers to Peru’s stunning landscapes and cultural heritage. What makes this trek stand out, and why might it be the perfect outdoor experience for you?

Key Points

• Guided 5-day trekking tour through the Salkantay Mountain range in the Andes of Peru, offering stunning vistas and exploration of Inca ruins.
• Challenging hike crossing the Salkantay Pass at an elevation of 15,213 feet, the highest point of the trek.
• Includes accommodation in tents during camping nights and one hotel night in Aguas Calientes, as well as meals.
• Gear and equipment, such as sturdy tents, sleeping bags, and hiking poles, are provided for the convenience of the trekkers.
• Moderate level of physical fitness is required, and the tour is not suitable for certain medical conditions or wheelchair users.

Tour Highlights

The 5-day Salkantay Trekking Tour offers travelers a chance to enjoy the stunning natural beauty of the Andes.

Hikers will trek through the majestic Salkantay Mountain range, taking in awe-inspiring vistas of glaciers, alpine lakes, and lush cloud forests.

Trekkers will traverse the majestic Salkantay range, marveling at glaciers, alpine lakes, and lush cloud forests along the way.

Along the way, they’ll have the opportunity to explore ancient Inca ruins, bathe in natural hot springs, and witness the iconic sight of Machu Picchu.

This challenging yet rewarding journey promises an unforgettable adventure, allowing participants to connect with the breathtaking landscapes and rich cultural heritage of Peru.

Itinerary

As travelers embark on the 5-day Salkantay Trekking Tour, they’ll begin their journey with an early pickup from their Cusco hotel or the main square.

The itinerary includes:

• Trekking through the Andes, past glacial peaks and alpine lakes

• Crossing the Salkantay Pass at 15,213 feet, the highest point of the trek

• Descending into the lush cloud forest, spotting diverse flora and fauna

• Visiting the Inca ruins of Llactapata before reaching Aguas Calientes

• Exploring the iconic Machu Picchu, the lost city of the Incas

The tour concludes with a return to Cusco, leaving trekkers with unforgettable memories.

Accommodation and Meals

Accommodation on the 5-day Salkantay Trekking Tour consists of tents for the camping nights and one night in a hotel in Aguas Calientes.

Camping equipment, including high-quality tents, is provided. Horses carry the main luggage, allowing hikers to trek comfortably.

The meals are also well-covered, with 5 breakfasts, 4 lunches, and 3 dinners included.

Breakfast and lunch are provided during the hiking days, while dinner is served at the campsites.

The meals aim to fuel hikers with hearty, nutritious food to sustain them throughout the challenging trek.

Included Gear and Equipment

High-quality camping equipment is provided for the 5-day Salkantay Trekking Tour. This includes:

• Sturdy, water-resistant tents for camping nights

• Warm sleeping bags and comfortable sleeping pads

• Durable hiking poles to navigate the rugged terrain

• First-aid kit with essential medical supplies

• Horse-drawn carts to transport the main luggage

In addition, the tour provides horses to carry the bulk of the travelers’ belongings, allowing them to focus on the hike itself.

The gear and equipment ensure a comfortable and safe trekking experience through the stunning Salkantay landscape.

Meeting and Pickup Details

Where can travelers be picked up for the Salkantay Trekking Tour?

Travelers can be picked up directly from their hotel lobby or at the Plaza de Armas de Cusco. The guide will meet the group at the hotel lobby or the main square if the hotel is outside the city center.

The tour starts at 4:00 AM, so the guide will ensure everyone is ready to depart on time. The activity ends back at the original meeting point.

Travelers should note that this tour isn’t recommended for those with mobility issues or serious medical conditions.

Activity Level and Accessibility

The Salkantay Trekking Tour requires a moderate level of physical fitness, as the hike involves several challenging ascents and descents over the course of five days.

The Salkantay Trekking Tour demands a moderate fitness level, as the hike covers strenuous ascents and descents over five days.

While the tour isn’t recommended for travelers with certain medical conditions, it can be enjoyed by those who are in good shape.

The key considerations for this trek include:

• Not wheelchair accessible

• Not recommended for those with back problems, heart conditions, or pregnancy

• Minimum fitness level required to complete the hike

• Maximum group size of 10 travelers

• Potential risks such as high altitude and unpredictable weather conditions

Booking and Cancellation Policy

Travelers booking the 5 Days Salkantay Guided Trekking Tour can expect to receive their booking confirmation at the time of booking, unless they’ve made the reservation within 2 days of their travel date. In that case, confirmation will be received within 48 hours, subject to availability.

Regarding the cancellation policy, this tour is non-refundable. There are no refunds if travelers need to cancel their trip.

| Booking Confirmation | Refund Policy |

|———————|—————|

| Received at booking | Non-refundable |

| Within 48 hours if booked 2 days prior | No refunds if canceled |

| Subject to availability | |

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Weather Like During the Trek?

The weather during the trek can be quite variable. Hikers can expect a mix of sunny days, cool temperatures, and potential rain or snow, especially at higher elevations. Layers and proper gear are essential to stay comfortable throughout the trek.

Can I Bring My Own Hiking Equipment?

Travelers can bring their own hiking equipment if they prefer, but the tour provider supplies high-quality gear like tents, sleeping bags, and backpacks. It’s generally recommended to use the provided equipment for maximum comfort and convenience during the trek.

Is There an Option to Hire a Porter?

Yes, porters are available to hire on this tour. Travelers can opt to have a porter carry their main luggage, allowing them to focus on the trek with just a daypack.

Can I Extend My Stay in Aguas Calientes?

Yes, travelers can extend their stay in Aguas Calientes after the tour. This can be arranged with the tour operator, and additional nights in Aguas Calientes can be booked. However, any extended stay is not included in the tour package.

Does the Tour Offer Any Optional Activities?

The tour offers an optional visit to the Aguas Termales Cocalmayo hot springs for $7 USD. Travelers can also explore Aguas Calientes, the town at the base of Machu Picchu, during their free time on the last day.

The Sum Up

The Salkantay Guided Trekking Tour is a remarkable opportunity to take in Peru’s stunning landscapes and rich cultural heritage. With its challenging terrain, deluxe camping accommodations, and guided expertise, the tour offers an unforgettable adventure for travelers seeking an authentic connection to the Andes. Whether seeking natural beauty, Inca history, or a personal challenge, this five-day trek is a must-consider for any visitor to Peru.