Embark on an extraordinary journey through the Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu, a renowned alternative route that unveils the awe-inspiring landscapes of the Vilcanota mountain range. This adventure is designed to honor the sacred Salkantay mountain (6271 m.a.s.l.), leading you to the enchanting Machu Picchu.
IT INCLUDES
- Transfer Cusco – train station of Ollantaytambo.
- Transfer Cusco – Soraypampa.
- Transfer Ollantaytambo Train Station – Cusco.
- Professional Guide (English and Spanish)
- Entrance ticket to Salkantay National park.
- Entrance ticket to Machu Picchu.
- 04 breakfasts, 04 lunches, 04 afternoon snacks and 04 dinners. VEGETARIAN OPTION.
- Water (except for the first 04 hours of trekking).
- Camping equipment: Inflatable mattresses or mattresses (Therm A Rest or Rei), spacious EUREKA tents (02 people per tent)
- Kitchen equipment and expert chefs.
- Dining tent with tables and chairs.
- Mules for transport of kitchen and camping equipment and up to 7 kilos of your personal items.
- 01 night hotel in Aguas Calientes
- Bus Ticket: Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu – Aguas Calientes.
- EXPEDITION Train Ticket: Aguas Calientes – Ollantaytambo.
- First aid Kit.
- Oxygen.
- Agency Services.
NOT INCLUDED
- Walking sticks (20.00 USD).
- Sleeping bag (20.00 USD.
- Breakfast on Day 1, lunch and dinner Day 4.
- Phone calls.
- Any other service not mentioned.
- Travel insurance.
- Tips.
OPTIONAL:
- Entrance ticket for Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain: Additional Cost USD 65.00 per person (Requires advance booking, several months in advance).
Recommendations for an Enjoyable Tour:
To ensure your Inca Trail to Machu Picchu experience is seamless and enjoyable, we recommend keeping the following tips in mind:
- Important Documents: Don’t forget to bring your passport or identity document (DNI), the same one used for your reservation.
- Footwear: Comfort is key during this journey. Be sure to wear sturdy trekking shoes to support your feet along the trail.
- Weather Preparedness: Pack a waterproof jacket or rain poncho to stay dry in case of unexpected rain. Additionally, a warm jacket will keep you cozy during cooler moments.
- Clothing Choices: Opt for quick-dry T-shirts for optimal comfort. Pack comfortable trekking pants and shorts for flexibility on the trail.
- Head and Hand Protection: A hat and gloves are essential to shield yourself from the sun’s rays and keep your hands comfortable.
- Currency and Cash: Carry some extra Peruvian Soles for small purchases along the way.
- Backpack Essentials: A compact backpack will be handy to carry your essentials. Don’t forget to pack sunscreen and mosquito repellent to stay protected.
- Capture the Moments: You won’t want to miss capturing the beauty of the trail. Bring your camera along with spare batteries to preserve these memories.
- Luggage Limitation: Keep in mind that the train permits a maximum of 7 kilograms of luggage. Pack efficiently to make the most of this allowance.
- Advance Planning: Ensure a smooth journey by booking your Inca Trail to Machu Picchu tickets well in advance.
- Personal Health: If you have any personal medications, be sure to bring them along for the trip.
- Stay Hydrated and Energized: Carry a water bottle to stay hydrated, and pack some snacks to keep your energy levels up.
- Personal Care: Basic toiletries and hand sanitizer will help you stay fresh and comfortable throughout the journey.
- Illuminate the Way: A flashlight with extra batteries will prove invaluable if you’re exploring during early mornings or evenings.
- By adhering to these recommendations, you’ll be well-prepared to make the most of your Inca Trail adventure, creating lasting memories and savoring every moment of this remarkable journey. Enjoy your exploration!
SALKANTAY INCA TRAIL TO MACHU PICCHU 5 DAYS AVAILABILITY
We are delighted to inform you that the Salkantay trek to Machu Picchu is available for you every day. There are no restrictions on embarking on the Salkantay trek, just like the Traditional Inca Trail.
ABOUT THE PASSPORT
Please ensure that the personal information you provide for booking the Salkantay Trek matches the details in your passport. This alignment is crucial as it must coincide with the passport information you present when visiting Machu Picchu. If you plan to update your passport, make sure to bring both your expired and updated passports.
ABOUT THE PAYMENT
Once you confirm your reservation via our website or through our sales agents, you can find detailed information about payment in our BOOKING POLICIES section.
DEGREE OF DIFFICULTY
The Salkantay Trek spanning 5 days presents a moderately demanding challenge. The trail’s elevation, distances, and variable weather contribute to its demanding nature. To ensure a fulfilling experience, we recommend you prepare both physically and mentally. Regular and moderate exercise routines can significantly enhance your endurance and stamina, providing you with a unique and unforgettable adventure.
ABOUT FOOD
Throughout the Salkantay Trek, a professional chef will meticulously craft each meal. If you have dietary restrictions, kindly provide this information while filling out your personal details. This service incurs no extra fee. Whether you’re vegetarian, vegan, or have specific food allergies, we strive to create a memorable culinary experience tailored to your preferences. Please note that we are unable to accommodate clients with life-threatening allergies.
PERSONAL MEDICATION
For those with specific medical conditions, it’s essential to carry your necessary medications throughout the Salkantay Trek. If you have allergies to food, scents, insect bites, etc., it’s advisable to bring allergy medication. Please note that our staff members are not authorized to administer medication. The first aid kit accompanying us on the journey includes oxygen, creams for sore muscles, bandages, and sanitizing agents for minor injuries.
WHEN TO ARRIVE IN CUSCO?
To make the most of your experience, we recommend arriving in Cusco a minimum of 2 days before the excursion. This time allows you to visit our office and explore the enchanting city of Cusco. We can also offer you additional tours around the city, including visits to the Sacred Valley, Maras Moray, and more, prior to commencing the Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu.
WHAT TO DO ABOUT ALTITUDE SICKNESS?
Both Cusco city and the Salkantay Trek are situated at high elevations. To acclimate effectively, we suggest arriving at least 2 days before the trek. Altitude medication is vital, and it’s recommended that you consult your doctor for altitude prescriptions before embarking on the Salkantay Trek.
WHERE TO STAY IN CUSCO?
Our company collaborates with well-regarded hotels in both Cusco city and the Sacred Valley. If you’re arriving a few days early, we can provide recommendations and assist in arranging accommodations. We’ll provide you with a list of options, or you can explore booking platforms like Booking.com, Hostelworld, TripAdvisor, etc. It’s essential to choose accommodations near the historic part of Cusco for easy exploration.
WHERE TO LEAVE YOUR LUGGAGE BEFORE STARTING THE SALKANTAY 4 DAYS?
Many hotels and hostels offer complimentary luggage storage services. In case this isn’t available, our office can store your belongings. Just provide a list of the items you’re leaving with us, and we’ll keep them secure until your return from the Inca Trail Hike.
TYPE OF ELECTRICAL OUTLETS IN PERU
Most hotels and residences in Peru now feature standard US outlets as well as South American outlets.
THE UTILITY OF HIKING STICKS OR POLES
Given the challenges posed by the Salkantay Trek, including elevation, distance, mountainous terrain, and varying weather, we recommend using hiking sticks or poles. They offer better balance and reduce impact on your knees, especially if you have limited hiking experience.
WEATHER ALONG THE SALKANTAY TREK
The Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu spans the Andes, high jungle, and rainforest regions. Weather can vary with the seasons. The dry season extends from May to October, while the rainy season lasts from November to April. Keep in mind that sudden rain showers can occur even during the dry season, so being prepared for changing weather is essential.
MULE CARE
We are committed to treating animals with care and respect. During the Salkantay Trek, mules are employed to carry equipment. To minimize their load, we avoid heavy items. On the third day, we switch from using mules to alternative transportation.
ACCESS TO POTABLE WATER DURING THE TREK
On the first day of the Salkantay Trek, you’ll need to provide your own water. Along the route until the first campsite, you’ll find opportunities to purchase bottled water. Starting from the second day, our chef will boil tap water, ensuring a safe and hygienic water source. We advise against drinking tap water unless using purification tablets due to differing pH levels.
CAN I HAVE MY OWN TENT?
Typically, when we have shared accommodations, passengers of the same gender share tents. Private tours often involve two individuals sharing a tent. If you prefer your own tent, there is an additional fee of 30 USD.
We hope these insights address your questions and help you prepare for your remarkable Salkantay Trek adventure. Feel free to reach out if you have any further inquiries!
DAY 1: CUSCO – MOLLEPATA – SORAYPAMPA
Commence your journey with an early morning pickup from your hotel, followed by a transfer to Mollepata village (2700 m.a.s.l.). This sets the stage for your incredible adventure through the Salkantay Inca Trail to Machu Picchu. The approximately 2.5-hour route allows time to appreciate Mollepata before proceeding. Continue your path to Challacancha, where the trek kicks off, leading you to the captivating Soraypampa (3900 m.a.s.l.). Recharge your energy with a delightful lunch before embarking on a trek to the stunning Humantay Lake. Returning to Soraypampa, a sumptuous dinner prepared by our skilled chef awaits.
DAY 2: SORAYPAMPA – CHAULLAY
Day two stands as the most challenging of the Salkantay trek. After an early breakfast, continue your journey towards the highest point, the Salkantay Pass (4600 masl). The six-hour hike includes a stop for appreciating the breathtaking landscape and offering prayers for our journey’s well-being. Lunch awaits at Wayraqmach’ay, a pivotal transition from puna to cloud forest. Your day’s destination, Chaullay, serves as the camping site.
DAY 3: CHAULLAY – LA PLAYA – LUCMABAMBA
Rise early for a trek lasting 5 to 7 hours. Traverse through Wiñaypoqo and Lluskamayu sites, surrounded by the lush jungle’s characteristic flora, including a variety of exquisite orchids. Arriving at Playa Zawayaco around 3:00 pm, savor a hearty lunch. A two-hour walk takes you to Lucmabamba, your campsite for the night.
DAY 4: LUCMABAMBA – LLAQTAPATA – HIDROELÉCTRICA – AGUAS CALIENTES
Between 7:00 am and 8:00 am, head to the Llaqtapata archaeological site, arriving around noon. Continue to Hidroelectrica for lunch, followed by a three-hour walk along the train path to Aguas Calientes. After settling into your designated hotel, enjoy a well-deserved rest. Cap off the day with a delightful dinner at a local restaurant.
DAY 5: AGUAS CALIENTES – MACHU PICCHU – CUSCO
Commence your day early as your guide escorts you to the bus station. A scenic 30-minute bus ride leads to Machu Picchu. The guided tour covers the citadel’s essential sites, including enclosures, sacred fountains, temples, the Intiwatana, and more. Following the guided tour, explore and capture memories. Upon leaving Machu Picchu, return to Aguas Calientes by bus for lunch. Board your train to Ollantaytambo, where our representative awaits to take you back to your Cusco hotel.
IMPORTANT CONSIDERATIONS:
- During the high season, there can be a significant bus queue from Machu Picchu to Aguas Calientes. Arriving 30 minutes early to board the bus to Aguas Calientes is advisable.
- To visit Machu Picchu, the Peruvian government introduced regulations from January 1, 2019, to prevent overcapacity and preserve the site. Re-entry is permitted only with a ticket including Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu mountain. To optimize your visit, consider going to the Intipunku or Inca Bridge before starting your tour.
- Train availability depends on the schedule or reservation date.
Additional Opportunities:
If your train schedule permits, we recommend a visit to the Chavez Ballòn Museum, the on-site museum of Machu Picchu, open from noon and offering free admission upon presentation of your passport.
Another delightful option is the Butterfly House, showcasing the captivating metamorphosis of butterflies from cocoons to adults. Admission is S /. 10.00.
