Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu - Private Service

Highlight of the day: You will reach the highest point of the Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu! You have conquered the Salkantay pass challenge!

The second day of the Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu begins early, with a nutritious breakfast to prepare us for the trek. At approximately 7:00 a.m., we will begin the trek to Salkantaypampa, where we will enjoy the spectacular landscapes of snow-capped peaks and rugged mountains.

From Salkantaypampa (4,100 m.a.s.l./13,451 ft.) we will ascend to the highest point of the Salkantay Trek, the Salkantay Pass, at 4,630 m.a.s.l./15,190 ft. From the top, we will have breathtaking views of Salkantay Mountain, the second highest peak in Cusco. After enjoying the views, we will descend to Huayracmachay (3,912 m.a.s.l./12,824 ft) and have lunch in that area.

To reach Chaullay (2,920 m.a.s.l./9,580 ft), the overnight camp, we will cross the pre-mountain and cloud forest area. As soon as we arrive at the camp, we will have dinner and rest for our third day of trekking, and start it with the best energy possible.

• 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 level: Tough.
• Overnight: Camping at Chaullay.
• Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner.

Highlights of the day: Entering into the lush jungle that is home to a wide variety of plants and animals.

After enjoying breakfast at 7:00 a.m., we will begin our descent to Sahuayaco (2,064 m.a.s.l./6,771 ft), a journey that lasts approximately 5 hours. Along this trail, you will have the opportunity to contemplate unique panoramas and the variety of flora and fauna that characterize this region. Keep your eyes peeled and fingers crossed, as this environment is home to the emblematic “Andean Cock-of-the-Rock“, Peru’s national bird. If you are lucky, you may catch a glimpse of it in its natural habitat.

Reaching to Playa Sahuayaco and enjoying lunch, we will continue our Salkantay trek to Machu Picchu in 5 days / 4 nights to our third day camp, which is located at Lucmabamba (2,000 m.a.s.l./6,561 ft).

• Trekking distance: 18 km / 11.19 mi.
• Estimated hiking 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 altitude: 2,920 meters / 9,514 ft.
• Difficulty level: Moderate.
• Overnight: Camping.
• Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner.

Highlights of the day: You will have the opportunity to explore the impressive archaeological site of Llactapata! You will be the envy of all your Instagram followers with your photos of this mysterious location.

The fourth and final day of the Salkantay trail begins with a delicious and nutritious breakfast. At approximately 8:00 a.m., we will take part in Peru’s famous Inca Trail which will lead us to the archaeological site of Llaqtapata (2,702 m.a.s.l./8,865 ft). Here, we will explore a beautiful archaeological site that connects Sayacmarka and Machu Picchu. Then, we begin the two-hour descent to the hydroelectric power plant.

Continuing our journey from the Salkantay trek to Machu Picchu, a three-hour walk will take us to the town of Aguas Calientes, where we will spend the night in a comfortable three-star hotel. Aguas Calientes has a variety of restaurants where we will celebrate our accomplishment of completing the Salkantay trek to Machu Picchu after leaving our luggage at the hotel.

• Trekking distance: 17 km / 10.6 miles.
• Estimated trekking time: 7 hours.
• Starting altitude: 2,000 m.a.s.l./6, 561 ft.
• Camp 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.

Today’s highlight: Your final reward awaits. Today you will see Machu Picchu!

The last day of the Salkantay trek to Machu Picchu 5 days begins early, at 7:00 a.m., taking one of the first buses to Machu Picchu. This choice allows us to be the first to enter the site, enjoying the tranquility and avoiding crowds, while observing the wonderful sunrise. The estimated guided time inside this wonderful place is 2 hours and during this time you will explore Machu Picchu, learning more about the history, and the Inca culture.

We suggest ascending Huayna Picchu after the guided tour (subject to the availability of permits and entrance fees). This ascent, which takes between 1 to 1 ½ hours, will reward you with a spectacular and exceptional view of Machu Picchu from the heights. At the end of our visit, we will take the bus back to Aguas Calientes town. From there you will have several options to have lunch, and then we will go to take the train that will lead you back to Ollantaytambo, and finally, the company’s transportation will bring you back to Cusco. Tre Salkantay Peru ends in Cusco city.

Activity description: Guided tour in Machu Picchu.  If you have the necessary entrance tickets, you can 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.

The Salkantay Trek offers an unforgettable adventure experience in the majestic Peruvian Andes. During the Salkantay Trail, 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.

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.

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!

The best time to do the Salkantay Trek 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.

The Salkantay trek 5 days to Machu Picchu is rated with a difficulty level of “challenging”. Along the route, there are daily hikes of several hours through mountainous, rocky, windy, and wet terrain. Bearing in mind, the highest trek’s altitude is 4630 m.a.s.l./15,157 ft.

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.

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.

The showers, in all the campsites, are provided for your comfort, but it is important to note the following details:

First day – Soraypampa (3,900 m.a.s.l./12,795 ft): Cold water showers.

Second day – Chaullay (2,920 m.a.s.l./9,514 ft): Cold water showers.

Third day – Lucmabamba (2,000 m.a.s.l./6,561 ft): Hot water shower and no additional cost.

Fourth day – Hotel in Aguas Calientes (2,050 m.a.s.l./6,571 ft): Hot water shower and no additional cost.

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 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.

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 the Salkantay Trek 4 Days Tour.

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.

Yes, along the 5 day Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu route, you will find restrooms at all the campsites; and it is important to note that these restrooms are usually basic and shared, they are simple facilities such as latrines.

If you choose to book the Salkantay trek to Machu Picchu through our agency, all costs are included in the package. However, it is advisable to have extra money for extra purchases during the trek. This money could be used for unexpected purchases and tips along the trek. It is advisable to bring local currency, Peruvian soles, for convenience.

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.

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.

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.

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

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.

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.

Please inform us in detail of your dietary restriction at the booking time, as well as the severity of your reaction and any medication you take in case of emergency.

If your allergy is severe, we remind you to be accompanied by a friend or person aware and fully responsible for your situation and ready with any medication.

WE CANNOT ACCEPT CLIENTS WITH LIFE-THREATENING ALLERGIES.

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.

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

Yes, our guide will provide you with an informative briefing prior to embarking on the exciting Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu route. During the briefing, you will receive valuable advice and recommendations on what to bring with you, as well as a detailed explanation of the Salkantay Peru and a presentation of the extraordinary itinerary to follow.

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 Peru 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 exciting 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.

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, and 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.

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:

If you wish, we can offer a variety of camping items for you.

Some of the items available are:

Sleeping bag – $25.00 USD

Trekking poles – $ 15.00 USD

If you already have this equipment, you are welcome to bring it with you.