Salkantay Trek 5 Days to Machu Picchu

Salkantay trek 5 Days Machu Picchu

Our Salkantay Trek 5 Days to Machu Picchu is the ultimate experience. Look no further if you’re looking for a spectacular hiking path. Our classic Salkantay Trek provides a one-of-a-kind combination of adventure and stunning scenery that will leave you speechless. Join us for a memorable experience, whether you’re traveling alone, with a spouse, or in a group.

Ascend snow-capped mountain peaks and descend through the gorgeous cloud forest on a once-in-a-lifetime adventure. Prepare to be engulfed in the bright Peruvian jungle as you approach Machu Picchu, surrounded by rich flora that brilliantly contrasts with the spectacular snowy mountains above.

This remarkable journey will take you to renowned sights on every traveler’s bucket list while also enabling you to immerse yourself in the region’s awe-inspiring natural splendor. On the first day, you’ll climb to Humantay Lake, where the turquoise waters contrast sharply with the snow-covered mountains. The next day, we’ll walk up to the Salkantay Pass, which provides a beautiful view of the majestic Salkantay Mountain. We’ll visit the magnificent Inca archeological site of Llactapata on the fourth day, giving you your first look at Machu Picchu.

And what better way to round off your spectacular tour than with a visit to the enthralling lost city of Machu Picchu, the ancient Inca citadel? After a 2-hour guided tour, you’ll have the choice of ascending Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain, where you’ll be able to take in the panoramic views of this incredible citadel.

Don’t pass up the chance to go on a once-in-a-lifetime Salkantay hiking adventure. Discover the marvels of Peru’s Salkantay and the charm of this wonderful place.

Highlights

• Walk and experience one of National Geographic’s 25 “World’s Greatest Trips” in the Peruvian Andes
• Enjoy one of the best walking adventures you’ll ever find in Peru and in South America
• Admire the panoramic views of Humantay and the Salkantay Glacier on the Salkantay Trail and incredible landscapes such as waterfalls, glaciers, mountains, valleys, colorful, real, unique animals and wildlife, and cloud forests
• Harvest, roast, brew, and enjoy your own organic coffee from local coffee farms on Day 3
• Hike the original trails of the Incas to the ruins of Llactapata, where you’ll get a great view of Machu Picchu from a different perspective
• Explore the ancient citadel of Machu Picchu and the surrounding area with a knowledgeable and professional guide
• Take advantage of the service our friendly customer service and experienced guide on a 5 Day Trip in Salkantay
• Explore the trip from Salkantay  to Machu Picchu in 5 days of camping, feeling nature while away from the crowds

Travel Tips for Salkantay Trek 5 days

If you are considering a trip to the Salkantay Trek, here is a travel guide to help you prepare:

Greatest Time to Visit: The greatest time to visit the Salkantay Trek is between April and October when the weather is more stable and there is less possibility of rain or snow. However, with fewer people, the shoulder seasons of March and November might also be a viable alternative.

Physical preparation: Because the Salkantay journey is a difficult and physically demanding journey, it is essential to thoroughly prepare oneself. Regular exercise, including cardio and weight training, is suggested before the climb to help prepare your body for the altitude and steep terrain.

Altitude Sickness: Because the Salkantay Trek reaches high heights, some hikers may experience altitude sickness. It is critical to gradually acclimate by spending a few days in Cusco or other high-altitude places before beginning the journey.

Clothing and equipment: For the walk, you will need waterproof and warm clothes, sturdy hiking boots, and a comfortable backpack. A sleeping bag, a light, and hiking poles are also advised.

5 days Slkantay trek

Permits and Guides: Permission is required for the Salkantay Trek, which may be acquired from a certified travel operator. A qualified guide is also required to join you on the hike.

Responsible Tourism: It is important to respect local people, cultures, and the environment as a responsible visitor. It is critical to choose a licensed tour operator that practices sustainable tourism, such as efficient garbage disposal and assisting local communities.

Machu Picchu: The Salkantay Trek concludes with one of the world’s most recognizable ancient monuments, Machu Picchu. Spend at least a full day touring the ruins and learning about their history and importance.

Overall, the Salkantay Trek is a rewarding and hard journey that requires careful planning, consideration for local people, and ethical tourist practices.

SALKANTAY TREK 5 DAYS  ITINERARY

Day 1: Cusco, Mollepata, Soraypampa, Humantay Lake and Salkantaypampa

We will pick you up from your hotel around 05:00 for your Salkantay trek 5 days. We continued to drive for almost 3 hours to Anta-Mollepata. While riding the bus, you can observe the snow-capped mountains of Salkantay and Veronica, the Inca Gods. Moreover, you will see breathtaking views of the upper part and the valleys below with colorful landscapes. After a 3.5-hour drive, we will make our first stop at Soraypampa (the starting point of the hike), where the restrooms and breakfast are prepared by our chef. There we will meet our support staff, arrange all the equipment, horses, and mules, and have an introductory meeting.

At around 9:00 am we will begin our hike to Lake Humantay. The first part of the road is flat, then uphill to the lake. We’ll explore it for about 30 minutes and then head back to Soraypampa, where you’ll have lunch. After lunch, we will continue hiking to  Salkantaypampa which is located in the middle of the Mountains, where at night it is very dark and there is no ambient light, making it a perfect place to admire the constellations in the sky.

• Walking Distance: 11 km/ 6.83 miles
• Total Walking Time: 6 hours approx
• Minimum Altitude: 3930 masl/12,894 fasl
• Maximum Altitude: 4,450 masl/14,596 fasl
• Physical Grading: Moderate to challenging
• Accommodation: Camping facilities
• Meals included Lunch, afternoon tea, and dinner

DAY 2: Salkantaypampa, Salkantay Pass and Collpapampa

Wake up early at 5:00 a.m. with coca tea delivered to your tent. We then quickly packed up, had breakfast, and immediately began our hike to the highest point of the Salkantay Trail. The distance is 5 km, which we will complete in 3 hours. During our ascent through the rocky valley, we can observe the magnificent Salkantay Peak (6217 m above sea level) and even see some chinchillas on the trail (as we ascend. At the top of the trail, we enjoy breathtaking views of the mountains and the towering snow-capped peaks of Salkantay.

Mount Salkantay is considered the second-highest mountain in the Cusco region and one of the few. The main Inca gods were called “Apu Salkantay”. Climbing to the top is the hardest part of the whole trip. You will feel very fulfilled! The next 3 hours were spent descending the Snake Trail along a gravel and rocky road to Huayracmachay, our lunch spot. In the afternoon, we will reach the upper part of the rainforest, also known as the “cloud forest”. We will travel 9 km in 3 hours until we reach the village of Ccolpa Pampa (2900 m above sea level), our base campsite. In the second half of the downhill day, we will observe the jungle adorned with colorful native plants and orchids. Most of the year weather is warm and pleasant.

• Walking Distance: 18 km/ 11.18 miles
• Total Walking Time: 8-9 hours
• Minimum Altitude: 2,870 masl/9,416 fasl
• Maximum Altitude: 4,630 masl/15,190 fasl
• Accommodation: Camping facilities
• Meals included: Breakfast, lunch, afternoon tea, dinner

Day 3: Collpapampa, Wiñaypocco, Lluscamayo – Lucmabamba

We will wake you up with hot coca tea!  Around 5.30 am, have breakfast, and afterward, start hiking straight to a place called La Playa, walking through the thick jungle and following the riverbank of the Salkantay River on a gradual trail.

On our trek, we will stop at several family hamlets to enjoy the local fruit and vegetables (passion fruit, banana, coffee, avocado, mango, orange, and papaya).  If we are lucky, we will be able to observe the famous bird called “the Cock of the Rocks”. This is the Peruvian bird.

For this Salkantay trek, the distance is 16 km, and the hiking time is 7 hours until we reach a place called Lucmabamba, which is going to be our base camp. (Lucmabamba) is a small town surrounded by coffee trees and can provide the basic facilities (toilet, electricity, shopping, and souvenirs). Also, this place is going to be our lunch point.

This afternoon there is an option to go to hot springs that take an hour’s drive; this is highly recommended after the hard journey on the mountain. After enjoying the hot springs, we are going back to our campsite for a happy hour and dinner before going to bed.

Day 4: Lucmabamba, Llactapata, Hydroelectric – Aguas Calientes

We will have our wake-up coca tea in the morning as usual. During the hike, we will pass coffee plantations and a manual coffee grinder on our way to Llactapata. Here we follow a vast, well-preserved, and original Inca trail that once led to Quito.

Following the road on the mountainside, we can see countless species of butterflies, mausoleums, orchids, rocky streams, and breathtaking views of the Santa Teresa valley. From the top of the pass, you can see Machu Picchu as amazing as the famous Intipunku,  Sungate. From the pass, it is a short walk to Llactapata. Still covered under vines, jungle vegetation, and trees, we will explore the site before descending to the Rio Aobamba and on to the Hidroelectrica where we have our last lunch with our amazing cook. From there, we will take a train until we reach Aguas Calientes. Once in town, we check into our hotel, go out to dinner then overnight.

• Walking Distance: 11 km/ 6.83 miles
• Total Walking Time: 6-7 hours
• Minimum Altitude: 2,040 masl/ 6,693 fasl
• Maximum Altitude: 2,815 masl / 9,236 fasl
• Accommodation: Hotel
• Meals included: Breakfast and lunch

DAY 5: Aguas Calientes, Machu Picchu, Ollantaytambo – Cusco

Today is the day you’ve been waiting for since you first set foot on the 5-day Salkantay trek to Machu Picchu! To get the most out of the day, we encourage you to have an early breakfast at your hotel before catching one of the first Consetur buses up to Machu Picchu. The early visit allows you to get ahead of the crowds!

After driving for 25 minutes to the Inca citadel, we’re finally going to visit one of the New 7 Wonders of the World Machu Picchu! Once in Machu Picchu, your guide will take you directly to the best place to watch the sunrise and take beautiful photographs. After the photography session, you’ll enjoy a 2-hour guided tour of this incredible ancient site, learning more about the history and culture of the Inca Empire while exploring temples, terraces, palaces, priest’s houses, the sundial, the industrial sector, and the farming fields.

Once you finish the guided tour at Machu Picchu, you’ll have some time to yourself to enjoy the site as you please and wander around. You can explore other areas further or enjoy the panoramic rest looking out over one of the best views in the world.

After visiting Machu Picchu, you can take the bus back down to Aguas Calientes. We recommend heading back to Aguas Calientes for lunch no later than two hours before boarding your train. In the afternoon, we’ll return to Cusco by the Expedition train by Peru Rail train from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo, where our driver will meet us and transfer you directly back to your hotel in Cusco.

Included

• The night before the trip, there will be a pre-trek briefing to go over the schedule, meet your guide(s), and answer any questions.
• The first day begins with pickup from your Cusco hotel.
• Private transportation to the trek’s starting location
• Personal porter to transport your overnight stuff weighing up to 8 kg (17.6 lbs).
• To keep your overnight items dry and dust-free, use a dry bag.
• 3 season tents for 3 persons (2 people in a spacious and comfy Mountain Hardwear Expedition tent)
• Under your sleeping bag, place a one-inch-thick foam mattress sleeping pad.
• Professional English-speaking tour guide
• Full meals (3 meals every day, tea time every afternoon, and trail snacks)
• Dietary requirements: capable of catering to any dietary preference or need
• First-aid package, including an emergency oxygen tank and a horse.
• Tables and chairs are provided in a dining tent.
• Cook, kitchen tent, and cooking utensils
• Toilet, toilet paper, and toilet tent
• Horsemen with horses (to transport tents, food, and cooking equipment)
• Every morning and evening, hot water is provided for hand washing.
• Every morning or afternoon, I boil water to fill water bottles.
• The tourist train travels from the hydroelectric facility to Aguas Calientes.
• Train from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo for tourists
• The Machu Picchu Archaeological Complex has a single admission price (from 6 a.m. to 10 a.m.).
• Machu Picchu tour with a guide
• Return bus tickets from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu
• Aguas Calientes hotel (double room) and supper at a local restaurant
• On the final day, private transportation back to your Cusco hotel is provided.

THE TRAIL DOES NOT INCLUDE

• Flights
• Hotel before and after the hike
• First-day lunch / last-day dinner
• Walking poles and sleeping bags (poles must have undamaged rubber bottoms.)
• Access to hot springs
• Extra treks within Machu Picchu: Wayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain—please notice that we cannot guarantee a place if you pick this option. We recommend making reservations for these hikes well in advance.
• Extra time is available at Machu Picchu In 2019, the government divided the admission ticket into three time periods. We include the first (6–10 a.m.)
• Personal belongings and mementos
• Travel interruption and evacuation insurance are needed.
• Tipping your guide(s) and trek crew is optional but strongly recommended if you had a good time on your hike.

THINGS TO TAKE:

• Original passport
• Current University Student Card (if you are a student and want to qualify for a discount price)
• Hiking/trekking boots
• Waterproof jacket/rain poncho
• Warm jacket
• Hats and gloves
• Poles (fast-drying)
• Comfortable trekking pants
• Sun hat
• Sunscreen (SPF 35+)
• Insect repellent (We highly recommend a NATURAL repellent)
• Toiletries and hand sanitizer.
• Personal medication
• Camera and video camera.
• Flashlight with spare batteries (or an environmentally friendly option)

Frequently Asked Questions About the 5-Day Salkantay Trek

what is Salkantay?

Salkantay is at 6,271 meters (20574 feet) and is the second-highest peak in the Cusco area. Vilcabamba is situated in the central Peruvian Andes, 6km west-northwest of Cusco. Locals have worshiped Salkantay, also known as “Savage Mountain,” since Inca times as a sacred deity that is responsible for the mountain’s favorable climate and abundant resources.

In 1952, a French-American expedition successfully scaled Salkantay for the first time. Salkantay Mountain is notoriously challenging to scale because of its form, elevation, and proximity to the Amazon border.

What exactly is the Salkantay Trek?

Due to its proximity to Machu Picchu and the presence of old paths, the Salkantay Trek is an excellent alternative to the Inca Trail.

The Salkantay Trail ascends to an altitude of 4,630 meters (15,190 feet) at the highest point, the Salkantay Pass, and may be completed in four or five days. National Geographic’s Adventure Travel Magazine included this journey in their list of the 25 Best Treks in the World.

What are the variations between the 4-day and 5-day Salkantay Trek?

The 4-Day Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu takes us through nearly the same stunning and spectacular landscapes as the Salkantay trek 5 days. The only variation is that on day three, we skip the campsite at Playa Sahuayaco and head straight to Hidroeléctrica and Aguas Calientes. Since we trek the three hours from Hidroeléctrica to Aguas Calientes on Day 3, it’s clear that Day 3 is the most difficult. Day 4 of your trip will find you in the Machu Picchu archaeological site.

On the 5-day Salkantay Trek, we have more time to rest and take things slowly. When we get to Playa Sahuayaca, we kick back at the campground. Even if you don’t feel like hiking, you may relax in the hot springs in Cocalmayo (not included). On day 4, we hike a section of the old Inca Trail to the spectacular archaeological site of Llactapata. Within the scope of our 4-day hike, we will not be covering this section. On day five, we go to Hidroeléctrica and Aguas Calientes to explore the Machu Picchu ruins.

Is the Salkantay trek 5 days Worth the effort?

Hiking the Salkantay Route to Machu Picchu is second only to the Inca Trail in terms of visitor volume. One of the most impressive things about this hike is the variety of opportunities it gives its participants. The first part of the Salkantay Trek is spent in the high highlands, where you’ll experience chilly weather and beautiful scenery of open meadows and snow-capped peaks. Travelers will arrive to Machu Picchu via the “Cloud Forest,” a dense, highland rainforest with a variety of ecosystems that will allow them to see and feel many different types of weather and sceneries on their way to the Inca citadel.

Salkantay Trek: How High Is It?

It’s vital to highlight the difference between the Salkantay Mountains (6,271 m/20574 ft) and the highest pass utilized throughout the journey passage from the Andes into the Amazon Cloud Forest, Salkantay Pass, located at 4630 m/15190 ft.

Camping at 3900 meters (12,795 feet), 2770 meters (9087 feet), 2,750 meters (9022 feet), and 2,000 meters (6561 feet) for the final night in Aguas Calientes

The Salkantay Trek Is It Cold?

The weather fluctuates throughout the year depending on whether you’re trekking in the dry season (April to October) or the rainy season (November to March), with temperatures rising somewhat during the wet season as it is summer in the southern hemisphere.

On the first day of the hike, you will see highs of around 64 degrees Fahrenheit (18 Celsius) during the day and lows of around 32 degrees Fahrenheit (0 Celsius) overnight. When the sun goes down or it clouds over, the temperature drops significantly, so it’s important to dress warmly. In spite of the heat, high elevations like Humantay Lake are constantly brisk.

Day 2: The second day provides two very different climates. From the morning until lunch, you will climb across the Salkantay Pass, the highest and most difficult portion of the journey. This part is normally bright and sunny, but, if rain falls, the temperature will drop to quite cold, and you will need to wear coats, caps, and gloves.

As we descend below the tree line in the afternoon, the temperature will rise (below 3000m). From here, we’ll make a precipitous drop to our second Cloud Forest camp. Daytime highs will reach the upper 70s (F) and lows in the low 50s (C) on both days.

Salkantay Trek 5 days

On day three, you’ll spend the day hiking through a tropical cloud forest. You must wear light clothes, protect yourself from the sun and bugs, and drink enough of water. At night temperatures may be about 10°C/ 53°F

On the fourth and last day of the trek, we begin once again in the Cloud Forest before descending further to the town of Aguas Calientes, where the usual temperature is between 12 and 24 degrees Celsius (54- and 75 degrees Fahrenheit).

Day 5: During the 5th day, you will visit Machu Picchu in the tropical mountain jungle with warm and humid weather virtually all year round.

Trip to Salkantay What Can We Expect From This Adventure?

By selecting the Salkantay route, you commit to the most strenuous journey we provide to Machu Picchu, so be ready for the following: Day after day of hiking under varying conditions, including hot sunshine, heavy clouds, cold rain, and very cold winds. Spend the first night without heat, light, or phone service by setting up camp.

It’s chilly on day 1 and the first half of day 2, but not every day. In addition, there are spots after the second camping where you may get a mobile signal and connect to the internet.

How Much Should You Tip The Salkantay Trek?

There are so many excursions to Machu Picchu and Salkantay that vacationers can have difficulties picking which one they would take.

The price is one of the most crucial considerations you should make, but you should avoid the cheapest options since they often have poor quality or high hidden expenses. In general, the cost of a Salkantay trip is between $450.00 and $650.00. All expenses, including stays at 3-star hotels, meals, porterage, transportation, and a highly qualified, English-speaking tour guide, should be included in this price.

This is a trekking excursion in treacherous terrain at a high altitude; therefore, it’s crucial that you book with a reputable firm you can trust.

We include a coffee tour, Pachamanca cookery, and a panoramic train ride on the last day, all for one low price when you book with Magical Peru Expeditions, and our tour guides and chefs are among the best in the business.

How Should You Prepare for the Salkantay Trek?

Anyone may hike the Salkantay Route; however, a reasonable degree of fitness is recommended. In order to enjoy this journey, you don’t need to be an excellent hiker, but you should be somewhat active.

There is no need to begin preparations months in advance. However, you must go on infrequent treks for around an hour or 2 and increase the frequency and duration as you come closer to the trip departure. It also helps to put in some time at the gym, go for a jog, or spin.

Weekends are ideal for short, steep hikes, but at least twice a month is necessary.

Is there a concern with altitude sickness? What should I do to avoid altitude sickness?

Any hiker, no matter how experienced, is susceptible to altitude sickness. Here are some things you can do to protect yourself against altitude sickness:

It is advised that you arrive in Cusco at least two days before the start of your journey in order to acclimate to the altitude. During this time, you should perform things that are not too strenuous, such as a city tour, a tour of the Sacred Valley, or a visit to Maras Moray.

Tours like Rainbow Mountain, which require a significant time commitment in the form of trekking, are not recommended due to the mountain’s extreme altitude. Touring this area is an excellent follow-up to a visit to Machu Picchu.

Bring Diamox or any altitude medication your doctor has prescribed.

Eat lightly and drink lots of water (Coca tea is great) during your first few days in Cusco.

Where Can I Reserve a Salkantay Trek in Cusco?

There are only so many people we can let into the Sanctuary at Machu Picchu, which is why it is the most popular tourist attraction in all of South America and all of Peru. There are two distinct train companies that serve Aguas Calientes town and Machu Picchu, both of which receive thousands of tourists each day. Booking ahead of time will allow you to think about these and other details.

Your early booking will provide us with more flexibility in selecting convenient train times, lodgings, and admission times for Machu Picchu.

Specifically, when would you recommend doing the Salkantay Trail and a trip to Machu Picchu?

The dry months of April and November are ideal for a trip to Machu Picchu because of the pleasant weather and lower crowds.

If you can help it, try to avoid making this journey in January or February, when the severe rainy season and the risk of landslides are at their peak. We highly suggest doing the Lares trip during these times.

Price of the Salkantay trek 5 days and Machu Picchu” program

The “Salkantay Trek 5-Day Trek or Classic Salkantay Hike to Machu Picchu” is available on any date that suits you. This 5-day trek can leave any day of the week, from March through January. We don’t run this trek in February because of the rainy season and maintenance

From US$450.00