Salkantay Trek 5 Days

The Salkantay Trek is a popular 5-day journey to the iconic Machu Picchu. This immersive experience showcases Peru’s stunning landscapes, from the serene Humantay Lake to the challenging Salkantay Pass. With a mix of moderate and strenuous hikes, travelers can expect comfortable accommodations, expert guide support, and all essential services to ensure a memorable adventure. Whether you’re a seasoned trekker or a first-time explorer, the Salkantay Trek promises an unforgettable encounter with the wonders of the Andes.

Key Points

• A 5-day Salkantay trek from Cusco to Machu Picchu, priced at Kč 9,314 per person, with a pay later option and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
• The trek includes stops at Lake Humantay, Salkantay Pass (4,700 m), Inca ruins, and the town of Aguas Calientes before reaching Machu Picchu.
• Comfortable accommodations, all meals, and essential services such as guides, cooks, and porters are included in the package.
• The trek has varying difficulty levels, with the second and fourth days being the most challenging due to significant elevation changes and long distances.
• Proper acclimatization and physical fitness are essential for this trek, as the weather can be cold, windy, and humid, especially at higher elevations.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Trek Overview and Pricing

This 5-day Salkantay trek to Machu Picchu is priced at Kč 9,314 per person.

Travelers can reserve now and pay later, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Along the way, they’ll have a live tour guide available in Spanish and English.

The trek offers an immersive experience, allowing hikers to explore the stunning Lake Humantay, traverse the challenging Salkantay Pass, and discover the Inca ruins at Llactapata before reaching the iconic Machu Picchu.

Itinerary Breakdown

The 5-day Salkantay trek to Machu Picchu begins in Cusco, where hikers explore the stunning Lake Humantay before camping at Quiswarniyoc.

On day two, trekkers face a challenging ascent to the Salkantay Pass (4,700 m) before descending to Chawllay Camp.

Trekkers face a challenging ascent to the lofty Salkantay Pass (4,700 m) before descending to the Chawllay Camp.

The third day brings an easy hike through the Santa Teresa Valley, with a stop at the Lucmabamba Camp and thermal baths.

Day four features a challenging Inca Trail hike to Llactapata and the descent to Aguas Calientes.

The final day starts with an early morning hike to Machu Picchu for an exploration of the iconic site.

• Day 1: Explore Lake Humantay, camp at Quiswarniyoc

• Day 2: Ascend Salkantay Pass, descend to Chawllay Camp

• Day 3: Hike Santa Teresa Valley, visit Lucmabamba Camp and thermal baths

• Day 4: Trek Inca Trail to Llactapata, descend to Aguas Calientes

• Day 5: Hike to Machu Picchu, return to Cusco

Accommodation and Meals

Throughout the 5-day Salkantay trek, hikers stay at comfortable accommodations.

They spend the first three nights at the Mountain Sky Hut, which provides basic but cozy lodging. On the fourth day, they overnight at a hotel in Aguas Calientes.

All meals – breakfast, lunch, and dinner – are included daily. Hikers are also provided with additional snacks along the trail.

The accommodations and meals are designed to fuel and support trekkers throughout their journey to Machu Picchu, ensuring they’ve the energy and comfort needed to complete the challenging hike.

Inclusions and Services

The Salkantay trek includes several key services and amenities to support hikers throughout their journey. This includes:

The Salkantay trek offers essential services and amenities to support hikers on their journey, including Machu Picchu entry tickets and a pre-hike briefing.

• Machu Picchu entry tickets

• A pre-hike briefing to prepare travelers

• Canvas bag service for up to 7 kilos of personal gear

• An experienced team of guides, cooks, and muleteers to handle the logistics

• Emergency provisions, bottled water, sleeping bags, and trekking poles provided

Plus, the package grants access to hot springs, showers, and bathrooms along the trail, as well as internet connectivity to stay connected.

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Weather and Difficulty Levels

Weather conditions along the Salkantay trek vary considerably throughout the 5-day journey.

Nights are cold and windy, with temperatures potentially dropping as low as -5°C, particularly from May to August. However, daytime temperatures are warm and hot, especially at the lower elevations. The humidity can also be high during the day.

The difficulty levels range from moderate on the first and last days to challenging on the second and fourth days. Hikers should be prepared for a physically demanding trek with significant elevation changes and long distances, especially on the more challenging days.

Preparation and Packing

To ensure a comfortable and successful trek, hikers should carefully consider their packing list. The essentials include:

• High-quality hiking boots with ankle support and good traction

• Moisture-wicking base layers, insulating mid-layers, and waterproof outer layers

• Sun protection such as a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen

• Hydration gear like a water bottle or hydration pack

• Snacks and electrolyte supplements to refuel during the trek

Plus, trekkers should pack basic first-aid supplies, a headlamp, and any personal medications.

Proper preparation can make the difference between an enjoyable experience and a challenging one.

Health and Safety Considerations

Given the challenging nature of the Salkantay Trek, hikers must prioritize their health and safety. Proper acclimatization is crucial, as the trek reaches altitudes over 4,700 meters. Hikers should arrive in Cusco several days early to acclimate.

Staying hydrated, pacing oneself, and being aware of altitude sickness symptoms are essential. The trek involves strenuous hiking, so physical fitness is important. Hikers should break in their boots and be prepared for varying weather conditions.

Travel insurance is recommended in case of emergencies. Following safety guidelines and heeding guide instructions can help ensure a safe and enjoyable trek.

Booking and Reservation Process

Booking the 5-day Salkantay trek to Machu Picchu is a straightforward process.

Adventurers can reserve their spot and pay later, with the option to cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

The trek offers:

• Convenient reserve now, pay later option

• Free cancellation up to 24 hours before

• Full refund available with timely cancellation

• Live tour guides in Spanish and English

• Flexible payment and booking arrangements

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Hire a Porter to Carry My Luggage?

You can hire a porter to carry your luggage. The package includes canvas bag service for up to 7 kilos of your personal items during the trek.

Is There Any Option to Explore Machu Picchu on My Own?

There’s an option to explore Machu Picchu on your own. You can hike from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu in the early morning, which takes about 1.5 hours. This provides independent exploration time at the archaeological site.

What Is the Group Size for This Trek?

The group size for this trek is not specified in the provided information. However, the trek includes experienced guides, a team of muleteers and horses for support, suggesting it is likely a small group experience.

Can I Book This Trek Last Minute?

Yes, you can book this trek last minute. The provider offers a "reserve now & pay later" option, and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making it easy to book this trek on short notice.

Are Vegetarian/Vegan Meal Options Available?

Yes, vegetarian and vegan meal options are available on the trek. The tour provider can accommodate special dietary requirements if requested in advance. Meals are included throughout the 5-day journey.

The Sum Up

The Salkantay Trek offers an unparalleled 5-day journey to Machu Picchu, immersing travelers in breathtaking landscapes, ancient Inca ruins, and a range of hiking experiences. With comfortable accommodations, all meals, and expert guidance, this trek provides an unforgettable adventure at a price of Kč 9,314 per person, making it a must-consider option for those seeking a memorable exploration of Peru’s stunning natural and cultural wonders.

You can check availability for your dates here: