Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu (5 Days)

The Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu is a breathtaking 5-day adventure that will captivate the senses. Trekkers will witness the majestic Salkantay mountain, explore comfortable accommodations, and savor nutritious meals. Led by professional bilingual guides, this intimate experience immerses travelers in the natural beauty of the Andes. While the trek is challenging, the rewards of reaching Machu Picchu make it a bucket-list item for any adventurous spirit. What more could one desire from a journey through this awe-inspiring landscape?

Key Points

• A 5-day hiking adventure through the Cusco region, featuring the Salkantay mountain and Machu Picchu.
• Maximum group size of 9 travelers for an intimate experience, led by professional bilingual guides, cooks, and assistants.
• Includes 4 nights of accommodation, with 4 lunches, 4 dinners, and 4 breakfasts, along with optional vegetarian menu.
• Hassle-free transportation arrangements, including transfers, train tickets, and bus service to Machu Picchu.
• Essential entrance fees to Machu Picchu included, along with amenities such as a dining tent, sleeping bags, and personal care items.

Trek Overview

The Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu is a 5-day hiking adventure that takes travelers through the stunning landscapes of Peru’s Cusco region.

The trek is located in Cusco, Peru and has received 3 reviews with a 5.0 rating based on Viator and Tripadvisor.

This challenging trek offers hikers the opportunity to witness the majestic Salkantay mountain and explore the ancient Inca citadel of Machu Picchu.

With a maximum group size of 9 travelers, the trek ensures an intimate experience led by professional bilingual guides, cooks, and assistants to make the journey as comfortable as possible.

Itinerary and Accommodations

1 night’s accommodation is provided in an ensuite room in Aguas Calientes, the town at the base of Machu Picchu.

Meals throughout the trek include 4 lunches, 4 dinners, and 4 breakfasts, with an optional vegetarian menu available.

Lunch and dinner on the last day are also included.

Guests can add on an extra hike to Huayna Picchu or Mountain Machu Picchu for an additional $30.

The itinerary and accommodations are designed to provide a comfortable and rewarding trekking experience as participants make their way to the iconic Machu Picchu site.

Transportation and Transfers

To get to the Salkantay Trek’s starting point and return to Cusco, the tour provides various transportation and transfers.

The package includes a transfer from Cusco to Mollepata, the trek’s starting point. After the trek, a train ticket is provided from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo, followed by transportation from Ollantaytambo back to Cusco.

Plus, a bus from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu is available for an additional $12 each way.

All the necessary transportation to and from the trek is arranged, ensuring a hassle-free experience for trekkers.

Inclusion and Amenities

While the trek includes essential entrance fees to Machu Picchu, the package also provides a range of amenities to enhance the trekking experience.

Travelers can look forward to a roomy dining tent and kitchen with chairs and tables, as well as sleeping bags and personal care items.

The tour is led by a professional bilingual guide, cook, and assistants, who ensure a comfortable and supported journey.

Tips for the guide and horsemen are also included, so trekkers can focus on the adventure without worrying about extra expenses.

Important Information

The Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu is limited to a maximum of 9 travelers per group, ensuring a more intimate and personalized experience.

This trek isn’t recommended for certain individuals:

1. Wheelchair users due to the rugged terrain.
2. Pregnant travelers or those with serious medical conditions, as the trek requires a strong level of physical fitness.
3. Travelers seeking a leisurely pace, as the trek is challenging and demanding.

The trek includes pickup from hotels within the historic center of Cusco, but the booking is non-refundable at $850 per person, with a lowest price guarantee.

Highlights of the Trek

The Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu offers hikers a stunning journey through diverse landscapes, including snow-capped mountains, lush cloud forests, and rugged valleys.

Trekkers will ascend the towering Salkantay Pass, standing at an impressive 15,213 feet, rewarded with breathtaking views of the Andes.

The trek then descends into the Amazonian cloud forest, where hikers can spot diverse flora and fauna.

The final day culminates with a visit to the iconic Machu Picchu, allowing travelers to explore the ancient Inca citadel and learn about its fascinating history.

This challenging yet rewarding trek is a true highlight of any Peru adventure.

What to Expect on the Trek

Trekkers can expect a challenging yet rewarding journey on the Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu. The trek features several key elements:

1. Steep ascents and descents: Hikers will climb over 5,000 meters (16,400 feet) at the Salkantay Pass, testing their endurance and stamina.

2. Diverse landscapes: The trek showcases Andean mountain ranges, lush cloud forests, and tropical valleys, offering stunning vistas at every turn.

3. Immersion in local culture: Trekkers will have the opportunity to interact with Quechua communities and gain insights into their traditional way of life.

Preparation and a positive mindset are essential to fully enjoy this unforgettable experience.

Tips for a Successful Trek

With the right preparation and mindset, adventurers can maximize their enjoyment of the Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu. Staying hydrated, pacing oneself, and managing expectations are key. Proper gear and conditioning are also essential. To emphasize this point, consider the following table:

Essential Gear	Fitness Level
Sturdy hiking boots	Cardiovascular endurance
Warm layers	Muscular strength
Rain protection	Flexibility
Trekking poles	Proper training
First-aid kit	Mental preparedness

Following these tips will help ensure a safe and memorable journey to the iconic Inca citadel.

Sum Up

The Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu is a stunning 5-day adventure that offers an intimate and challenging experience in the Peruvian Andes. With breathtaking views of the Salkantay mountain, comfortable accommodations, and expert guidance, this trek is perfect for those seeking to enjoy the natural beauty of the region. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or a first-time adventurer, the Salkantay Trek promises an unforgettable journey.