Cusco: Salkantay Dome to Dome 5-day Trek to Machu Picchu

Cusco’s Salkantay Dome to Dome trek is a must-try for adventurous travelers seeking an immersive experience in Peru’s stunning landscapes. This all-inclusive 5-day journey offers the chance to bask in the glory of the Salkantay and Humantay Mountains, sleep in cozy dome accommodations, and explore the iconic Machu Picchu – all while enjoying personalized service and the convenience of porters. Whether you’re an avid hiker or simply seeking an unforgettable getaway, this trek promises to leave you in awe of the region’s natural beauty.

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Key Points

A 5-day all-inclusive excursion from Cusco to Machu Picchu, featuring a trek through the Salkantay mountain range and overnight stays in luxury domes.
Priced at $650 per person, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and no upfront payment required.
Highlights include breathtaking views of Salkantay and Humantay Mountains, a guided tour of Machu Picchu, and free time to explore the site.
Includes transportation, meals, and amenities such as hot showers, private toilets, and porters to carry up to 10 kilos per person.
Alcoholic drinks, excess luggage, and gratuities for guides and staff are not included in the package price.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Overview and Pricing

The Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu is a 5-day excursion that starts in Cusco, offering travelers the opportunity to hike to the iconic Inca site via the Salkantay mountain.

A 5-day trek from Cusco to Machu Picchu along the scenic Salkantay mountain, offering travelers a unique path to the iconic Inca site.

Priced at $650 per person, this all-inclusive package covers lodging, meals, transportation, and more. Guests can reserve their spot with no upfront payment and enjoy free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

The trek features stunning views of the Salkantay and Humantay mountains, as well as a guided tour of Machu Picchu.

Group size is limited to 15 participants for a more personalized experience.

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Trek Experience and Highlights

Hiking to Machu Picchu via the Salkantay mountain is the highlight of this 5-day trekking adventure.

Trekkers will witness breathtaking views of the Salkantay and Humantay Mountains along the way. They’ll stay in luxury domes with hot showers and private toilets, a unique experience on the trail.

The small group size, limited to 15 participants, ensures a more personalized journey.

Travelers will also enjoy a guided tour of Machu Picchu and have free time to explore the ancient Inca citadel at their own pace, before returning to Cusco.

Daily Itinerary

On the first day, travelers are picked up from their accommodation in Cusco and driven to Mollepata, where they enjoy a hearty breakfast before beginning their trek from Challacancha.

The day includes:

Lunch at Soraypampa, offering stunning views of the Salkantay and Humantay Mountains.
An afternoon hike to the turquoise waters of Humantay Lake, nestled beneath the imposing Humantay glacier.
Overnight in luxury domes, where they can relax and recharge after a day of trekking.

The following days take them over the Salkantay Pass, through the jungle, and into Aguas Calientes before the grand finale at Machu Picchu.

Inclusions and Amenities

The Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu package includes several key amenities and services to enhance the overall experience.

Travelers will enjoy 2 nights in luxury domes with hot showers and private toilets, plus 1 night in a 3-star hotel in Aguas Calientes.

The trek includes up and down bus rides from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu, as well as the Vistadome train back to Ollantaytambo and private transport to Cusco.

Hearty meals, such as afternoon tea and buffet lunches and dinners, are provided during the trek.

Porters carry up to 10 kilos per person, and an emergency horse is available for every two passengers.

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Salkantay Mountain Hike

Although the Salkantay Mountain hike is the highlight of the trek, it’s also one of the most challenging aspects.

The Salkantay Mountain hike, a highlight of the trek, is also one of its most challenging aspects.

Trekkers will encounter:

A grueling 5-6 hour ascent to the Salkantay Pass at 15,213 feet, with stunning views of the snow-capped peak.
A steep descent through lush vegetation and tropical forests, where they’ll spot diverse wildlife and flora.
Challenging terrain that requires proper hiking gear and physical preparation to navigate successfully.

Despite the difficulties, the Salkantay hike rewards trekkers with breathtaking landscapes and a profound sense of accomplishment upon reaching Machu Picchu.

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Luxury Dome Accommodations

Luxury domes await trekkers during their Salkantay adventure, providing a comfortable respite after long days on the trail.

These dome-shaped structures feature hot showers and private toilets, offering a touch of luxury in the Andes.

After hiking through rugged landscapes, guests can relax in the cozy interiors, taking in views of the surrounding mountains.

The domes are strategically placed along the trek route, ensuring trekkers have a place to rest and recharge before tackling the next leg of their journey to Machu Picchu.

With these amenities, the Salkantay trek combines adventure and comfort.

Guided Tour of Machu Picchu

As part of the Salkantay Trek experience, travelers enjoy a guided tour of the iconic Machu Picchu.

The tour provides a rundown of this ancient Inca citadel:

Experienced guides offer valuable insights into the site’s history, architecture, and cultural significance, bringing the ruins to life.
Visitors can explore the iconic structures, such as the Temple of the Sun, the Intihuatana Stone, and the Sacred Plaza, gaining a deeper understanding of the Inca civilization.
The guided tour is followed by free time, allowing travelers to wander the site at their own pace and capture stunning photographs of the breathtaking vistas.

Additional Considerations

Travelers should be aware of a few additional considerations when booking the Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu. Alcoholic drinks are available for purchase throughout the trek, though not included in the package price. Excess luggage charges may apply, so it’s best to pack light. Food and drinks not specified in the inclusions, such as snacks or specialty beverages, will also be an extra cost. Gratuities for the guide, porters, and other staff are not included, so budgeting a tip is recommended.

| Inclusions | Availability | Cost |

| — | — | — |

| Alcoholic Drinks | Available | Additional |

| Excess Luggage | May Apply | Additional |

| Unspecified Food/Drink | Not Included | Additional |

| Gratuities | Not Included | Additional |

| Souvenirs/Extras | Available | Additional |

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Food and Snacks on the Trek?

Yes, you can bring your own food and snacks on the trek. The tour includes all meals, but you’re welcome to pack extra snacks if you’d like to have something on hand between meals.

What Is the Minimum Age Requirement for This Tour?

The minimum age for this tour is 10 years old. Children under 10 are not permitted to participate due to the strenuous nature of the trek. All participants must be able to hike for several hours each day.

Do I Need Any Special Clothing or Gear for the Trek?

For this trek, you’ll need sturdy hiking boots, layers of warm clothing, a rain jacket, sunscreen, and a day pack. The tour operator provides a detailed packing list to ensure you’re prepared for the varied Andean weather.

How Much Spending Money Should I Bring for the Tour?

For this 5-day trek, you’ll likely need around $150-$200 for additional expenses like alcoholic drinks, tips, and any extra snacks or souvenirs you’d like to purchase along the way. The tour includes most meals and activities.

Can I Extend My Stay in Machu Picchu After the Tour?

The tour does not include an extended stay in Machu Picchu after the guided tour. However, you can choose to stay longer in Aguas Calientes or arrange a return trip to Machu Picchu on your own.

The Sum Up

The Cusco: Salkantay Dome to Dome 5-day Trek to Machu Picchu offers an unforgettable adventure. With stunning mountain views, luxurious dome accommodations, and a guided tour of the iconic Machu Picchu, this all-inclusive experience is priced at just $650 per person. Travelers can explore one of the world’s most remarkable destinations without the hassle of planning, making this trek an exceptional value.