05 Day Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu - Group Service

Highlight of the day: Feel the energies and magnificence of the Salkantay mountain – you will climb the highest point of the trek! You have managed to tame the Abra de Salkantay!

Today, nature will change dramatically from dry landscapes to snow-capped peaks and tropical zones.

Once we have finished our nutritious breakfast, around 7:00 a.m., we will begin the most challenging part of the trek ascending to a place called “Pampa Salkantay“, and without realizing it, we will walk between two spectacular snow-capped peaks: Salkantay and Humantay. After trekking and climbing for many hours, by midday, we will be at the highest point (4600 m.a.s.l.) of the Salkantay Trek.

From the highest point of the trek, we will be able to appreciate spectacular views of the mountain range; next to the mountains, rivers, and the imposing snow-capped peaks of this beautiful and important mountain range next to the snow-capped Salkantay (6264 m.a.s.l.) which is known as the second highest point of the Cusco region.

Therefore, we will begin our descent, and around 1:00 p.m. and have our lunch in Wayraqmachay.

Afterward, our hike will be approximately 3 hours until we reach the camp in Chaullay (3920 m.a.s.l.). As we hike, you will have the opportunity to see exuberant flora and habitats change from puna to pre-mountain forest. At the day’s end, around 7:00 pm, we will be ready for dinner, and then rest and recover our energies.

• Trekking distance: 22 km/13.7 mi.
• Estimated trekking time: 9 hours.
• Starting altitude: 3,900 m.a.s.l./12,795 ft.
• Camp elevation: 2,920 m.a.s.l./9,580 ft.
• Highest altitude: 4,630 m.a.s.l./15,190 ft.
• Difficulty: Formidable.
• Overnight: Camping at Chaullay
• Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner.

Highlight of the day: You will trek through the lush jungle, past beautiful waterfalls and along magical trails, learning more about biodiversity flora and fauna on site!

After breakfast and enjoying a different and beautiful sunrise, around 7:00 a.m., we will walk for about 5 hours to Playa Sahuayaco. In the cloud forest, we will pass through a village called Collpapampa. Here, we can observe waterfalls, fruit trees, varied flora, and many birds.
On the other hand, if we are lucky, we would find and observe a famous bird named the Andean Cock-of-the-Rock, the national bird of Peru.
At Playa Sahuayaco, we will have lunch, and then hike for another couple of hours to reach Lucmabamba, our last campsite and the beginning of the Llactapata Inca Trail.

• Trekking distance: 18km/11.19 mi.
• Estimated trekking time: 6 hours.
• Starting altitude: 2,920 m.a.s.l./9,514 ft.
• Camp elevation: 2,000 m.a.s.l./6,561 ft.
• Highest altituded: 2,920 m.a.s.l./9,514 ft.
• Difficulty: Moderate.
• Overnight: Camping at Lucmabamba.
• Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner.

Today’s highlight: If you are a culture lover, today will be an exciting day because you will explore the impressive archaeological site of Llactapata! Get ready to take the most stunning pictures of this mysterious place!

At approximately 8:00 a.m., we will embark on a gradual two-hour hike leading us to the captivating Llactapata, a remarkable archaeological site intricately linked to the Inca wonders of Machu Picchu and Sayacmarka. Our exploration of this fascinating Inca site will be followed by a descent towards Hydro-Electrica, which takes about one hour and forty minutes approximately.

Subsequently, a delightful three-hour trek along the railway tracks will usher us into Aguas Calientes, our destination for the night, where we will check into our hotel. In the evening, after securing our luggage, we will enjoy a communal dinner at one of the many inviting restaurants in the area.

• Trekking distance: 17 km/10.6 mi.
• Estimated trekking time: 7 hours.
• Starting altitude: 2, 000 m.a.s.l./6, 561 ft.
• Lodging elevation: 2, 050 m.a.s.l./6, 571 ft.
• Highest altitude: 2,702 m.a.s.l./8,865 ft.
• Difficulty level: Light.
• Overnight: Three-star hotel in Aguas Calientes.
• Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner.

Highlight og the day: There is no better place to go if you enjoy culture than Machu Picchu. Today is not just any day, today you will visit one of the 7 wonders of the world, the mighty Machu Picchu!

This last day starts very early. So, we will wake you up at 5:00 a.m. for breakfast. Then, we will take one of the first buses to Machu Picchu.

Early in the morning, it is the time to visit the Inca city because it is quiet. You will have plenty of time to take pictures and enjoy the sunrise over Machu Picchu with a few people walking around.

The company guide will show you around the citadel of Machu Picchu telling you about the history, temples, and most significant places of Machu Picchu. After that, if you still have a lot of energy and the entrances tickets, you could climb Huayna Picchu mountain. This steep mountain dominates Machu Picchu’s background. It takes 1 hour to climb Huayna Picchu and 1 to 1 ½ hours (depending on if you want to visit the Great Cavern) to return down.

Then, once you feel you have seen every corner of Machupicchu you will take a bus to the town of Aguas Calientes to have lunch. We usually take the bus around 1:00 p.m. The bus ride takes about 25 minutes and your guides will give you the ticket. It is recommended that before leaving Machu Picchu on the bus, the guides give you the time and location of the restaurant where the group meets in Aguas Calientes.

Finally, at the restaurant in Aguas Calientes after a delicious lunch, you will get your train tickets. Upon arrival in Ollantaytambo, a company transport will be waiting for you.

• Activity description: Tour in Machu Picchu with optional hike to “Huayna Picchu” or “Machu Picchu Mountain”.
• Difficulty level: Easy.
• Meals: Breakfast.

The Salkantay trek is a popular trekking route, the best-selling version being the Salkantay trek 5 days and 4 nights ending in Machu Picchu. The Salkantay trek 5 days offers more spectacular views of the Andes and the Amazon jungle, crossing the Vilcabamba mountain range, home of the Salkantay mountain, and the second highest in Cusco.

Both are very similar hikes due to: visiting archaeological sites before reaching Machu Picchu, traveling along original Inca trails, having identical flora and fauna, similar difficulty levels, passing through breathtaking landscapes, etc.

Both recover in different places. This answer depends on 2 important points:

• If the client wants to see more archaeological sites on the route, the Inca Trail is the most appropriate option.
• If the client is focused on walking in the Andes and overcoming challenges, the Salkantay trek is the right option.

Note: There is a difference; the price.

No special permit is needed but a ticket is required for the Salkantay trek. This entrance ticket is included in the tour, so don’t worry about that.
Note: The ticket costs 20 soles or 7 dollars.

The Salkantay Trek offers an unforgettable adventure experience in the majestic Peruvian Andes. During the Salkantay Trek, you can expect exciting challenges and unforgettable rewards as you traverse breathtaking landscapes ranging from snow-capped mountains to lush rainforests. In addition, you will connect with local culture and explore fascinating archaeological sites on the way to Machu Picchu.

The best time to do the Salkantay Peru to Machu Picchu is in the dry season, which runs from May to October. During this time, weather conditions are more favorable, cause there is less rain and humidity around cloud forest and the trekking challenges.

Our tour starts once we pick you up from your hotel, and also ends in the city of Cusco, specifically at the hotel where you were picked up. If we talk about the trek of the tour, it starts in Challacancha and ends in Machu Picchu!

Definitely no, it is not necessary to be an experienced trekker to join the 5-day Salkantay Peru. However, it is essential to have some physical condition and stamina due to the demanding nature of this trek. Those hikers who do not have any hiking experience should consider starting training at least six weeks before the start of the trail. The Salkantay trek is designed to be accessible to a wide variety of people. Options are provided with different difficulty levels and routes adapted to various levels of fitness and trekking experience.

Preparing for the challenging Salkantay Trek involves getting physically fit, acclimating to the altitude, packing essentials, securing permits, and having proper travel insurance. Investing in quality hiking gear, training with loaded backpacks, and staying hydrated are essential. It’s important to respect local culture and the environment while mentally preparing for the journey. Following the guide’s instructions ensures a safe and enjoyable experience.

The Salkantay trek 5 days to Machu Picchu is rated with a difficulty level of “challenging”. Along the route, you will hike daily for several hours through mountainous and rocky terrain, with variations in altitude through the different habitats.

Safety largely depends on proper acclimatization to altitude, following your guide’s instructions, and using appropriate gear. While some steep sections and high altitudes can be physically demanding, with the right preparation, it’s a safe and rewarding adventure. Overall, with proper planning and a reputable tour operator such as Waman Adventure, the Salkantay Trek can be a safe and enjoyable experience.

Start with sturdy hiking boots that provide ankle support and are well-worn to prevent blisters. Layering is key, so pack moisture-wicking base layers, long-sleeved shirts, a fleece or down jacket, and a waterproof outer layer for unpredictable weather. Don’t forget to include a warm hat, gloves, and a swimsuit if you plan to visit hot springs. Lastly, remember to bring necessary documents, personal medications, and snacks for energy during the trek.

It is definitely challenging. We are sure that you cannot find steep and rugged mountains anywhere else; this makes the Salkantay trek one of the top treks in the world.

On the first two days you will reach levels of up to 4620m/15,157ft. On the following days the hike is at a lower level, averaging 2700 m.a.s.l/8,858 ft.

The Salkantay trek takes 5 or 4 days. Only one difference can be found between the three treks, which is that the 4 day trek involves much more physical effort than the five day trek. Check out this link for Salkantay Trek 4 Days Tour.

It is recommended to carry backpacks with 25 to 35L capacity. These will allow you to accommodate your necessities such as snacks, a waterproof jacket, a flashlight, and medicine that can be used on the trek.

It is possible to walk almost 43 mi/70 km during the 5 days of the Salkantay Trek Peru. This Trek puts your mind and body to the test, so it is important to train these aspects a lot before doing it.

As a part of the Salkantay trek, a number of campsites have been established along the route for the comfort and rest of all hikers:

On the first day of the Salkantay Peru, the camp will be set up at Soyroccocha, located at 4,600 m.a.s.l./15,091 ft.

On the second day of the Salkantay Peru, the resting point will be Colpapampa, at 2,920 m.a.s.l/9,514 ft.

On the third day of the Salkantay Peru, hikers will spend the night in accommodation in Machu Picchu town, specifically at the Golden Sunrise Hotel Machu Picchu or similar.

Finally, on the fourth day, the tour will culminate with the return to the beautiful city of Cusco. A van will take you back to your hotel.

Yes, along the Salkantay Trek route, restroom facilities are at some campsites. However, it is important to note that these restrooms are usually basic and shared, consisting of simple facilities such as latrines.

Our agency offers the Salkantay trek to Machu Picchu which includes all costs. However, it is advisable to have extra money for possible extra expenses during the trek. These expenses may include unexpected purchases and tips. It is advisable to bring local currency, Peruvian soles, for convenience.

The first two days of the trek are the coldest because you will trek in areas above 4000 m.a.s.l./13,123 ft. Temperatures during this period can reach minus 0° C/32 F. The last 3 days of walking are at lower elevations, so the temperature is better even if it is raining.

For the Salkantay Trek, you’ll need sturdy, waterproof hiking boots with good ankle support.  Make sure you choose the shoes that fit you best, but they must have detailed features.

Tips are not a mandatory requirement, but it is a way to express gratitude to the team who helped you during the Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu. So, I recommend you consider them according to your experience and satisfaction level.

After Soraypampa, there will be just one opportunity to purchase food and water in Wayraqmachay until you reach Chaullay. It is important to know that the stores at this point are basic. Therefore, we recommend you to take snacks and other essentials with you to ensure enough during the trek.

During the Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu, we provide balanced and nutritious meals, with high carbohydrate content. Our chefs and cooks are trained to prepare exquisite dishes inside Peruvian Andean landscapes. Meals include a varied selection of traditional Peruvian dishes. Lunches and dinners include omelets, pancakes, fresh fruits, vegetables, meats, chicken, rice, soups and desserts.

If you have dietary restrictions or allergies, it is vital to let our sales agents know in advance so that they can customize meals according to your needs.

Yes! During your Salkantay Trek, we will provide you with drinking water. The water is filtered, boiled, and cooled daily. This water is distributed to hikers in canteens, and bottles during each meal.

It is imperative that you carry enough water for the first four hours of the first day. It is recommended that you carry an adequate amount of water at the beginning of the hike.

Our Salkantay trek 5 day package does not include Huayna Picchu’s entrance ticket. However, we are available to help you acquiring a ticket to climb this mountain. We remind you to do this in advance because the maximum capacity is 200 people can climb daily.

To guarantee a worry-free experience, make your Salkantay Trek reservation at least three months in advance. This action secures your place on the route and allows you to plan your trip with precision. Furthermore, booking in advance allows you to obtain the necessary permits and choose the services that are most appropriate for your needs.

You are just one step away from this exciting adventure! Follow this link to book this unforgettable trek: https://www.wamanadventures.com/es/contactenos/

Once you complete the form, you will receive a confirmation message in the email you provide us. This message will include all the necessary details to finalize your reservation.

If any further questions or queries arise in the process, our sales and reservations colleagues will be glad to help you every step of the way.

If during your 5-day Salkantay Trek you experience altitude sickness, known as “soroche”, it is essential to take some time to rest and rehydrate properly. Chewing coca leaves in moderation can also provide relief. In addition, it is imperative that you inform the guides of any needs or discomfort you may be experiencing. These guides are trained to provide support and guidance in these situations.

Signal availability is limited and unstable during the first three days of the trek. However, on the fourth night, when you stay in a hotel in Machu Picchu town (Aguas Calientes), you will have access to a more stable and convenient connection.

At some campsites, you can charge your electronic devices, as they have electricity. However, it is essential to consider that these points may be limited. I recommend you bring external batteries or power banks in order to ensure sufficient energy for your devices during the entire 5 day Salkantay trek to Machu Picchu. As a result, you will not experience battery problems.

Waman Adventures´ cancellation and refund policies vary depending on your trek proximity. At the time we receive written notification that you wish to cancel your trip, you will be charged the following fees: