Salkantay Trek FAQs

Answers to Salkantay Trekking

Salkantay Trek FAQs

Who can do the Trek to Salkantay?

This Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu has a high physical difficulty level. The route includes mountain and jungle trails with steep inclines. Prior experience in trekking and adequate physical preparation are necessary, which can be achieved through hiking, cycling, swimming, gym workouts, among other activities. This activity is designed for people who are not expert mountaineers but have the necessary level of fitness. It requires a willingness to engage in physical activity, step out of the comfort zone, and be in good health.

What is the difficulty level of the Salkantay Trekking to Machu Picchu?

This trek, covering approximately 75 kilometers, is of high physical difficulty. Previous training and experience in high-altitude trekking over several days and many hours per day, with overnight stays, are necessary. It doesn’t have technical difficulty. Another challenge is the altitude: the Salkantay Pass is the highest point during the Trek to Salkantay, with an altitude of 4650 meters above sea level. For this reason, we recommend acclimatizing for a few days in Cusco (3399 meters above sea level) before the trek. Keep in mind that most days start early, with breakfast usually at 5 A.M, or earlier, to start the hike between 5:30 and 6 A.M, and dinner around 6 or 7 P.M.

Where is the meeting and end point of the Salkantay Peru Treks?

The starting and ending point is at your accommodation in Cusco, where you are staying. We can assist you with accommodation suggestions. We recommend staying near Cusco’s Plaza de Armas.

Who are the guides for the Trek to Salkantay?

Since we founded Andes Expediciones, our great difference from other companies is that our service is personal. One of our staff guides responds to your inquiries personally, and we also handle the logistics, take care of every detail, and guide you in the field. We are passionate about the mountains. Our motto is to meet a stranger and say goodbye to a friend, offering the best at every moment. For this trek, there will be an Argentine guide from Andes Expediciones, accompanied by local guides and facilitators.

Do I need to bring any special documentation for the Salkantay Peru Treks?

You must send a medical certificate of good health signed by a professional at least one month prior to the trek. In addition, you’ll need to send a photo of your ID (both sides) via WhatsApp for registration and to purchase tickets for Circuit 2 of Machu Picchu (the Citadel), known locally as “Llaqta de Machu Picchu.” You must bring your original ID or passport on the trek, as well as a copy of your travel insurance (which is mandatory).

Do I need to carry my backpack during the Salkantay Trek?

Our experience with different mountaineering programs confirms that trekking is more enjoyable without carrying a heavy backpack. For this reason, our services include mules to carry your backpack with up to 5 kilograms of personal equipment (sleeping bag, clothes, etc.) and group equipment (food, utensils, pots, etc.). You will only need to carry a small daypack with water, snacks, a warm jacket, and a raincoat.

Do I need to bring water from the city for the Trek to Salkantay Peru?

You should bring two water bottles or canteens, each with a capacity of one liter. Make sure to fill them with water before the first day of the Salkantay Trekking to stay hydrated.

At what pace do we walk during the Trek to Salkantay?

The walking pace is adapted to the average speed of the group. In the mountains, we walk at a relaxed pace, with breaks for hydration and rest. Remember, it’s not a race, but an experience to enjoy the scenery and every moment. We will adjust the pace to the group’s conditions and the weather.

How many kilometers do we walk per day during the Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu?

We will walk between 13 and 22 km daily, with breaks. Most of the days start early, around 5 or 6 A.M, due to the time difference with Peru.

How are the groups composed for the Salkantay Peru Treks?

Our group will be made up of people of various ages, professions, and provinces, all with a strong spirit of adventure and camaraderie. Solo travelers tend to connect well with the group. You will be accompanied by both Argentine and Peruvian guides.

What kind of food is provided during the Salkantay Trekking?

The service is all-inclusive, and we provide food suited to the energy demands of the activity, based on typical Peruvian cuisine. We provide breakfast, lunch, afternoon tea, and dinner. You should bring some additional snacks like cereal bars, dried fruits, nuts, candies, chocolate, cheese, cookies, or other personal favorites.

Are there bathrooms, hot showers, electricity, or phone service during the Salkantay Peru Treks?

The campsites have basic bathrooms. There are showers, but not in all lodges, and not all offer hot water. Some places charge extra for hot showers. There is no phone service for most of the trek, although in some areas you might get a signal from Movistar or Claro. Some lodges also offer Wi-Fi for sale.

Is the Trek to Salkantay canceled due to bad weather?

The expeditions are not canceled due to bad weather. The guides will modify the program as necessary to ensure the safety and comfort of all participants.

What kind of training is recommended for the Salkantay Trekking?

We recommend training at least six months before the trip by taking long walks, bike rides, or attending the gym three times a week. Being in good physical condition will allow you to enjoy the trek more.

Do I need previous trekking experience to do the Trek to Salkantay?

You don’t need to be an experienced mountaineer, but we recommend going on some previous trekking trips and camping to familiarize yourself with the experience.

What is the weather like during the Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu?

The weather can vary. Although it’s outside the rainy season, Cusco’s jungle area experiences more than 105 rainy days a year. Temperatures can range from 20°C to 0°C, or even below freezing. Bring the necessary equipment.

Can I rent equipment for the Salkantay Trek?

If you need to rent equipment, we can advise you on where to rent it in Cusco, but it’s recommended to have your gear arranged in advance.

Can you buy food during the Trek to Salkantay Peru?

At some stops, you can purchase food or drinks. Bring Peruvian soles in small bills and coins of 1, 5, 10, and 20 soles.

Where do we stay during the Salkantay Peru Treks?

We will stay in “quinchos” or “domes,” which are shared accommodations, with double or triple occupancy depending on the campsite. We will also stay in a lodge-style refuge with shared rooms.

Other recommendations for the Salkantay Trekking:

Bring spare batteries, chargers, and cash in Peruvian soles.