+51 984 751 486 perutravelcompany@gmail.com Cuesta Santa Ana N° 701 and siete cuartones Nº 245

Price

From$245

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Length

5 Days, 4Nights

Group

Min 8, Max 16

Trip Style

Trekking

Grading

1,2,3,4,5

Tour Details

Embark on the Salkantay Trek, a 5-day private excursion recognized by National Geographic as one of the top 25 treks globally. This trek stands as a premier alternative to the classic Inca Trail, guiding adventurers along a less trodden path through the stunning Andean landscapes, culminating in the awe-inspiring visit to Machu Picchu.

Highlights of the Salkantay Trek:

Llactapata Inca Site: Kick off your journey with a hike to the Llactapata ruins, perched at 2,700 meters (8,856 feet). Here, amid ancient Incan architecture, catch your initial, breathtaking glimpse of Machu Picchu’s distant silhouette. This early view sets an anticipatory tone for the adventure ahead, as you stand on the grounds that once buzzed with Incan activity.

Humantay Lagoon: Continue to the Humantay Lagoon, a jewel-like body of water nestled at the base of its namesake mountain. The lagoon’s strikingly vibrant turquoise waters provide a stunning contrast against the rugged backdrop, reflecting the dramatic peaks that surround it. This spot is perfect for contemplation and photography, capturing the essence of Andean beauty.

Salkantay Mountain: Ascend towards the formidable Salkantay Mountain, standing at 6,271 meters (20,569 feet), one of the highest peaks in the Andes. Trekking beneath Salkantay offers a profound sense of scale and the raw power of nature. This segment of the trek not only challenges your physical limits but also provides an unforgettable experience of walking beneath towering ice-clad peaks, enveloped in a cloak of clouds and alpine winds.

Diverse Landscapes: The trek takes you on a journey through an array of ecosystems, each distinct in flora, fauna, and climate. From lush cloud forests dripping with moss to arid mountainsides where cacti cling to life, your path unfolds through some of the most varied terrains on the planet. The trek provides continuous views of majestic landscapes, including the peaks of Apu Salkantay, Pumasillo, and Humantay Mountain, each contributing to the dramatic horizon.

Extra Activities: For adventurers looking to enhance their trekking experience, additional activities include:

Climbing Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain for an elevated view of the citadel ($25 each).
Experiencing the thrill of a Zip Line adventure in Santa Teresa ($25).

Pricing Options: Choose your return journey to Cusco after visiting Machu Picchu with two pricing options:

By Car: Adult $190, Student $170.
By Train: Adult $270, Student $250.

The Salkantay Trek is an open invitation to adventurers of all levels, offering an intimate encounter with the natural and historical wonders of Peru. This trek is not just a journey but a once-in-a-lifetime adventure, listed on National Geographic’s Ultimate Adventure Bucket List as one of the most extreme and legendary experiences on the planet. Join us for this unforgettable 5-day private trek to Machu Picchu, where the beauty of the Andes meets the legacy of the Inca civilization.

Inclusions

Professional Bilingual guides
Collection from hotel (we will come to pick you up between 4:45 am to 5:00am)
Bus from Cusco to Mollepata – Marco Ccasa
4 breakfast, 4 Lunches, 4 Dinners
3 nights Camping and 1 Hostel in Aguas Calientes
Foam sleeping mattresses note
Cook, horseman, mules (carry up to 5 kg per person)
Duffle bag to get ready 5 kilos of your belonging carried by horses
Entrance fee to Machu Picchu
First Aid kit
Vegetarian Option is acailable on request with no extra charge
Return train

Excludes

Breakfast on the first morning lunch on the last day after Machupicchu
PERU TRAVEL COMPANY highly recommend to get an insurance of trip cancellation/interruption insurance to protect your travel
Down sleeping bag – 8ºC US$ 20 for all inca trail
Personal “Half porter” for 9 Kg US$ 60.00
Trekking poles US$ 20.00 a pair
Hot Springs in Aguas Calientes (10 soles)
Bus tickets down from Machupicchu to Aguas Calientes town US$ 10 one way
Tips for guides, Cook, Horse man It`s a tradition but not mandatory
Energy snacks will be very useful as chocolate bars, dried fruits
Ticket for Huayna Picchu mountain US$ 70.00 (Book and pay in advance with us)
Hotel in Cusco before or after Salkantay Trek

Recommended to carry

Original passport and copies (and Student card (ISIC) student card if applicable) green card if you are student)
Note (you have to bring your student card to machu picchu because you are going to be required to show at the Machupicchu control point)
Travel Insurance card is essential
Hiking water proof boots (with ankle protectors)
Trekking poles metal tips are not allowed on the trail
Waterproof jacket or rain poncho
Warm jacket
Sun hat and gloves
T-shirts / shirts
Comfortable hiking zip off trousers
Rain pants
Bathing suit (for hot springs in Aguas Calientes)
Sun protection cream ( factor 35 recommended ) sun is strong
Insect Repellent (for mosquitos) 15% of deet at least
Water bottle
Toilet paper and wet wipes
Personal medication
Camera and films
Torch with spare batteries (flashlight) we recommend headlights
Emergency money at least (200 - 300) extra soles. (USD $ 120)
Short pants, Plaster and bandages
Walking poles (with rubber tips) they can also be hired from us (they can be used on the Inca Trail if they have rubber tips)
NOTE: walking poles are not allowed into machu picchu cittadel

Itinerary

Day 1Cusco – Mollepata – Soraypampa

Our journey begins with an early hotel pickup between 04:30 to 04:45 AM. We’ll drive south from Cusco to Mollepata where we’ll stop for a fortifying breakfast (not included). Continuing for another 45 minutes to Marqoq’asa, we then embark on a two-hour hike to the Horada Pata mirador, which offers stunning views of the valley below. After soaking in the scenery, we trek another 3.5 hours to Soraypampa where we’ll have lunch and set up camp.

For those feeling adventurous, there’s an optional hike to the breathtaking Humantay Lagoon at 4220 m.a.s.l., lasting about 1 hour and 20 minutes, with a 40-minute return trek.

Evenings are for relaxation with tea served at 6 PM followed by dinner at 7:30 PM, before retiring to our tents.

Meals: Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Camping (double occupancy tents)
Altitudes: Max 3,800m, Min 3,350m
Distance: 19km
Difficulty: Moderate

Day 2Soraypampa – Salkantay Pass – Colpapampa

The day begins with coca tea served at your tent as a gentle wake-up call. After breakfast, we ascend towards the imposing Salkantay Mountain, making our way to Soyrococha for a short rest. The trek continues to the day’s highest point at 4600m where we’ll enjoy snacks and learn about the area’s rich history. We then descend for 2 hours to our lunch spot, followed by a hike down to the Chaullay campsite for the night.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Camping (double occupancy tents)
Altitudes: Max 4,600m, Min 3,800m
Distance: 21km
Difficulty: Moderate

Day 3Colpapampa – La Playa Sayhuyaco – Lucmabamba

Descend through a more verdant landscape as we enter the high jungle, experiencing a noticeable change in climate and biodiversity over the 4-hour trek to Lluscamayo, where we’ll pause for lunch. This region might allow glimpses of Peru’s national bird, the Andean cock-of-the-rock, and offers the chance to refresh under a natural waterfall.

The afternoon’s 3-hour walk brings us to La Playa, our final campsite near Lucmabamba, nestled within lush greenery and vibrant local flora.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Camping (double occupancy tents)
Altitudes: Max 3,300m, Min 2,100m
Distance: 11km
Difficulty: Moderate

Day 4Sayhuyacuy – Llaqtapata – Hydroelectric – Aguas Calientes Pueblo

From Sayhuayacuy, our trek leads us to the Llaqtapata ruins, where you’ll have another distant view of Machu Picchu, set against a backdrop of mountainous splendor. After exploring the site, we’ll descend to the Hydroelectric station, where we’ll enjoy lunch. The afternoon walk is a tranquil trek along the train tracks leading directly to Aguas Calientes. This gentle segment provides ample opportunity to reflect on the journey thus far as we approach the culmination of our trek.

Upon arrival in Aguas Calientes, check into a hostel for a well-deserved rest before our final ascent to Machu Picchu the next morning.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Hostel
Altitudes: Max 2,450m, Min 2,100m
Distance: 12km
Difficulty: Moderate

Day 5Aguas Calientes Pueblo – Machu Picchu – Cusco

Rise early for a bus ride up to Machu Picchu, aiming to arrive in time to witness the sunrise—a truly unforgettable spectacle. Enjoy a comprehensive guided tour of the Inca citadel, learning about its historical significance and the mysteries that continue to surround it. After the tour, there will be some free time to explore the site further or climb Huayna Picchu for a bird’s eye view of the ruins.

Later, we descend to Aguas Calientes and board a train back to Cusco, reflecting on the profound experiences of the past five days.

Meals: Breakfast
Altitude: Max 2,450m
Distance: Minimal walking within Machu Picchu

Photos

Gallery

FAQs

1.What is the altitude range and difficulty level for each day of the trek?

Throughout the trek, the altitude ranges from a maximum of 4,600m at Salkantay Pass to a minimum of 2,100m at Aguas Calientes Pueblo. The difficulty level is moderate for each day, with varying distances and altitudes to accommodate different fitness levels.

2.What type of accommodation is provided during the trek, and are there single occupancy options available?

Accommodation during the trek is camping in double occupancy tents, providing a shared experience with a trekking partner. Additionally, on the final night in Aguas Calientes Pueblo, accommodation is provided in a hostel. Single occupancy options may be available upon request, although they may incur additional charges.

3.Are meals included throughout the trek, and are there vegetarian/vegan options available?

Yes, meals are included throughout the trek, including breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Vegetarian and vegan options are typically available, and dietary preferences can be accommodated with prior notice.

4.Are there any optional activities available during the trek, and what are they?

Yes, there is an optional hike to the breathtaking Humantay Lagoon on Day 1, offering a unique opportunity to explore the natural beauty of the region. Additionally, on Day 5, there is the option to climb Huayna Picchu for a bird’s eye view of Machu Picchu.

5.How is transportation arranged back to Cusco after visiting Machu Picchu?

After visiting Machu Picchu on Day 5, transportation back to Cusco is typically arranged by train. Participants board a train in Aguas Calientes for the scenic journey back to Cusco, providing a comfortable and convenient way to conclude the trek.

1 Review

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Michael J.

Solo Traveller

This trek from Cusco to Machu Picchu exceeded all my expectations. Starting with an exciting drive to Abra Malaga and a thrilling downhill bike ride, the adventure was packed with stunning scenery and cultural insights. Each day’s hike presented new challenges and breathtaking views, especially the climb to the Salkantay Pass.

The journey through the jungle to La Playa and the tranquil hike along the train tracks to Aguas Calientes were highlights. The anticipation built perfectly to the grand finale at Machu Picchu. The guides were excellent, the accommodations were comfortable, and the experience was unforgettable. I highly recommend this tour to anyone looking to immerse themselves in the natural and historical beauty of Peru.

August 23, 2023

Salkantay Trek 5 Days Private