Classic Salkantay Trek 5 Days Highlights:

1. Majestic Salkantay Peak Elevation: 6,271 meters (20,574 feet) The trek begins with breathtaking views of the snow-capped Salkantay Mountain, one of the highest peaks in the Andes. Its towering presence and glacier-covered slopes create a dramatic and awe-inspiring start to the adventure.
2. High-altitude Pass Salkantay Pass: 4,630 meters (15,190 feet) The trek crosses the challenging Salkantay Pass, offering panoramic views of surrounding peaks and valleys. It’s the highest point on the trek and a significant achievement for hikers.
3. Diverse Ecosystems: Experience a dramatic shift in landscapes, from the rugged high-altitude terrain of the Andes to lush cloud forests and subtropical jungles. This diverse range of ecosystems provides a rich variety of flora and fauna.
4. Scenic Valleys and Rivers: Trek through picturesque valleys and alongside roaring rivers like the Salkantay and Urubamba, with stunning natural scenery that includes cascading waterfalls and vibrant plant life.
5. Local Andean Villages: Pass through traditional Andean villages where you can interact with local communities and learn about their customs, culture, and way of life.
6. Lush Cloud Forest: As you descend, enjoy the lush, green cloud forest environment, teeming with unique wildlife and exotic plants. This area is known for its biodiversity and serene atmosphere.
7. Santa Teresa Hot Springs: Relax in the natural hot springs of Santa Teresa, offering a soothing and rejuvenating experience after several days of trekking.
8. Arrival at Machu Picchu: Conclude your trek with a stunning arrival at Machu Picchu, the iconic Inca citadel. Explore its ancient ruins and marvel at its architectural genius and historical significance. Sunrise views are particularly spectacular.
9. Inca Trail Alternatives: The Salkantay Trek is a popular alternative to the traditional Inca Trail, offering a less crowded route with equally breathtaking views and a sense of remote adventure.
10. Unique Cultural Experiences: Enjoy a rich blend of cultural experiences, including traditional ceremonies, local cuisine, and stories from indigenous guides who share their deep connection to the land and its history.

Salkantay Trek 5 Days to Machu Picchu Short Itinerary:

• Day 1: Cusco – Mollepata – Soraypampa
• Day 2: Soraypampa – Salkantay Pass – Challway
• Day 3: Collpapampa – La Playa – Lucmabamba
• Day 4: Lucmabamba – Llactapata – Machu Picchu Pueblo
• Day 5: Hiking to Machu Picchu – Cusco

Important Information

Briefing:

• The briefing is held the night before the trek at 6 pm at our office, located at Address: Portal Confiturias N° 211, Plaza de Armas

Luggage Storage:

• Main luggage can be stored at our office or your hotel during the trek.

Booking the Trek:

1. Fill out the booking form on our website.
2. Provide personal details (full name, gender, passport number, DOB, nationality) for each participant.
3. Pay a $100 USD deposit per person to purchase trek permits and entrance tickets. The balance can be paid in cash at our office or online via VISA or PAYPAL (with a 5.5% service fee).

Student Discounts:

• Discounts available for students aged 18-25 (with valid ID) and children aged 0-11. Student ID or passport copies are required.

Changing Dates:

• Machu Picchu tickets are non-transferable and non-refundable once purchased. Contact us as soon as possible if you need to change your trek date. Deposits are non-refundable in case of cancellation.

Essential Information for the Salkantay Trek

Original Passport Requirement:

• You must bring your original passport on the trek. It is crucial that this is the same passport used for booking the trek and other reservations. Your passport will be checked at Machu Picchu, during the trek, and when boarding the train.
• If your passport is renewed or your name changes, send us details of your old passport. We can update your permit for a $25 USD fee per person. If you don’t want to pay this fee, bring both your old and new passports to Peru to show at checkpoints.

Weather on the Salkantay Trek:

• The weather is highly unpredictable. Dress in layers to adapt to rapidly changing conditions.

Altitude Sickness:

• Acclimatization is crucial. Spending 2-3 days in Cusco (3,350m/11,047ft) before starting the trek helps.
• Remedies include drinking water, coca tea, and using oxygen if needed. Our guides are trained to handle altitude sickness.

Group Size:

• Maximum group size is 8 people, though our groups typically range from 2-6 people for a more personalized experience.

Cooks and Pack Horses:

• 1 cook per group.
• Pack horses are allocated based on group size: 4 horses for 2 trekkers, 6 horses for 4 trekkers, 9 horses for 6 trekkers, and 12 horses for 8 trekkers.

Hiking Details:

• You’ll receive a small duffel bag for your belongings with a 7 kg (14 lbs) weight limit. Pack horses carry this bag, and you will need a daypack (30-40L) for daily essentials like a warm jacket, camera, and snacks.

Trek Difficulty:

• The Salkantay Trek is challenging and requires moderate fitness. Regular exercise and acclimatization are important.

Toilets:

• Toilets are available along the trek, often with a fee of 1 sole. At camp, a biochemical toilet will be set up a comfortable distance from your tent.

If You Can’t Finish the Trek:

• In case of health issues, we’ll assist you to the nearest town. Oxygen is carried for respiratory problems, and a helicopter evacuation can be arranged at your expense (travel insurance required). There are no refunds for unfinished treks.

Hotel Transfers:

• Hotel pickups and drop-offs are included in all packages. We will drop you off at your hotel or Sacred Valley accommodation after the trek.

Train Departure Time:

• Train times depend on availability, usually around 14:55 or 15:20 to maximize your time at Machu Picchu.

Vistadome Train Upgrade:

• For $67 USD, you can upgrade to the Vistadome train, which offers better seating, panoramic windows, snacks, and entertainment. Request in advance.

Tipping:

• Tipping is appreciated but not compulsory. It is a significant part of the tourism industry in Peru and motivates excellent service.

Sustainability:

• We are committed to sustainable and responsible tourism, protecting the environment, and benefiting local communities.

The 5-Day Salkantay Trek is one of the most exciting hikes you can do if you want to visit Machu Picchu. It’s a challenging journey that takes you through high mountains, down into tropical jungles, and finally to the famous ruins. Each day feels like a new adventure, with different landscapes and experiences. This trek is perfect for people who want more than just a simple walk to Machu Picchu.

5-Day Salkantay Trek

Recommended Tours

There are many tours available for the Salkantay Trek 5 Days, but it’s important to choose the right one. Some tours include more stops, like visiting Humantay Lake, which is a beautiful extra. Machu Picchu Expeditions offers great tours that include experienced guides and comfortable camping. They know how to make the Classic Salkantay Trek enjoyable and safe.

Weather

The weather on the 5-Day Salkantay Trek changes a lot. You can start the day in cold, windy mountain weather and end it in warm, humid jungle air. The higher you go, the colder it gets. At night, it can be freezing, especially when you camp near Salkantay Pass. But as you go down, the temperature gets warmer. Be prepared for rain, too—it can happen anytime, especially in the jungle areas.

What to Bring

For this trek, you need to pack smart. Bring layers of clothing because the weather changes so much. A warm jacket, rain gear, and good hiking shoes are must-haves. You’ll also need sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses, because even when it’s cold, the sun can be strong. Don’t forget water and snacks to keep your energy up during the long days of hiking.

Why Travel with Machu Picchu Incas Expeditions

Choosing Machu Picchu Expeditions is a great idea for the 5-Day Salkantay Trekking. They have good guides who know the trail well and can keep you safe. They also provide good food, so you don’t have to worry about that. Their campsites are well-organized, and they take care of all the details, which makes the whole experience more enjoyable.

How to Prepare for the Tours

Before you start the Classic Salkantay Trek, it’s important to prepare. Spend a few days in Cusco to get used to the altitude. Drink lots of water and don’t push yourself too hard in the beginning. The altitude makes it harder to breathe, and you don’t want to get sick. Take it slow and listen to your body.

Most Common Prices

The price for the Salkantay Trek 5 Days depends on the tour company and what’s included. On average, it costs between $300 and $500 for a five-day trek. Some tours include everything, like food, guides, and transportation to Machu Picchu. Always check what’s included before you book.

How to Choose a Travel Agency

When picking a travel agency for the 5-Day Salkantay Trekking, make sure they have good reviews. Look for companies like Machu Picchu Expeditions, which have experienced guides and good service. It’s important to ask questions about the trek, like what they provide and how they handle altitude sickness. A good agency will make your trip better and safer.

Restrictions

Not everyone can do the Salkantay Trek 5 Days. It’s a tough hike, especially because of the high altitude. People with heart problems or breathing issues should talk to a doctor before going. Also, the trail is long and steep in some parts, so it’s not for beginners. You need to be in good physical shape to enjoy it fully.

Tickets to Machu Picchu

After the trek, you’ll need tickets to enter Machu Picchu. It’s a good idea to buy them in advance because they sell out fast, especially during the high season. Some tour packages include the tickets, so ask about that when booking with Machu Picchu Expeditions.

Talking About Tour Guides

Tour guides on the Salkantay Trek are very important. They help you stay on the right path, share stories about the area, and make sure everyone is safe. Guides from Machu Picchu Expeditions are knowledgeable and friendly. They know how to deal with altitude problems and keep everyone motivated during the tough parts of the hike.

Most Frequent Altitudes Along Different Routes

The Salkantay Trek reaches some very high altitudes. The highest point is Salkantay Pass, which is about 15,000 feet above sea level. After that, the trail goes down into the jungle, where the altitude is lower, around 6,500 feet. The change in altitude is one of the most interesting parts of the trek, but it can also be tough on your body. That’s why it’s important to take your time and rest when you need to.