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Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu

Ranked among National Geographic Adventure Travel Magazine’s ‘25 Best Treks in the World,’ the Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu offers tantalizing views of the Andes. Traverse off the beaten path to Machu Picchu, experiencing the resplendent Humantay and Salkantay Mountains, the glacial Humantay Lake, and diverse landscapes—from Andean peaks to lush jungles.

This trek, known as the Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu, embraces Quechua villages, unveils lesser-known Inca ruins, and promises an independent journey of discovery on the Salkantay route to Machu Picchu.

Highlights Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu

  • Scenic Diversity: The Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu is renowned for its breathtaking landscapes, ranging from high-altitude mountain passes to lush cloud forests, offering trekkers a diverse and visually stunning experience.
  • Salkantay Mountain: Marvel at the majestic Salkantay Mountain, the highest peak in the Vilcabamba mountain range, providing a dramatic backdrop and a sense of awe throughout the trek.
  • Challenging Yet Rewarding: Considered a more challenging alternative to the Inca Trail, the Salkantay Trek offers a rewarding adventure, testing trekkers with high-altitude passes and providing a sense of accomplishment upon reaching Machu Picchu.
  • Cultural Encounters: Immerse yourself in the local culture by interacting with indigenous communities along the way, gaining insights into their traditional way of life and contributing to a more enriching trekking experience.
  • Natural Hot Springs: Relax and rejuvenate in natural hot springs, a welcomed respite after challenging trekking days, providing a unique blend of adventure and relaxation.
  • Humantay Lake: Visit the stunning Humantay Lake, a turquoise jewel nestled in the Andean mountains, adding a picturesque and serene element to the trek.
  • Off-the-Beaten-Path: Experience a less crowded trail compared to the Inca Trail, allowing for a more intimate and personal connection with the natural surroundings and historical sites.
  • Culmination at Machu Picchu: Conclude the trek with a visit to the iconic Machu Picchu, where the journey culminates in a spectacular exploration of the ancient Incan citadel.
  • Varied Ecosystems: Traverse through different ecosystems, including alpine tundra and subtropical forest, showcasing the remarkable biodiversity of the Andean region.
  • Diverse Flora and Fauna: Encounter a rich array of plant and animal life along the trek, from rare orchids to diverse bird species, enhancing the overall natural experience.

Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu

4 days / 3 nights
From: $620 $558 Per Person

For treks and tours, the deposit is $200 + $10 service fee = $210 per person. The remaining balance must be settled before the tour.

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Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu

Tour Info

Destination:Machu Picchu, Salkantay
Duration:4 days / 3 nights
Difficulty:Moderate
Total Distance: 47 km / 29 miles
Group Size:2 – 8 Persons
Price:$620.00p/p$558.00p/p
Payment Terms:Advance of US$ 210 through PayPal and Balance on Arrival
Price Includes:

Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu Included

  • Tour briefing, the night before you set off
  • All transportation provided including pick up and drop off at your hotel
  • Professional guides
  • Assistant tour guide (for groups of 9 or more)
  • Our chef, porters, horsemen and mules to carry food and equipment
  • Hearty and wholesome meals to fuel you on your hiking tours (vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free meals available)
  • Drinking water
  • Daily snacks
  • Dining tent with tables and chairs
  • Equipment (Eureka Timberline Tents)
  • Entrance fee to Humantay Lake
  • Entrance fee to Machu Picchu
  • Train tickets
  • Bus tickets
  • 1 night at a 3 star hotel in Machu Picchu town, also known as Aguas Calientes
  • Satellite phones, first aid kit, and oxygen tank
Not Included:
  • Rentals (can be hired from us)
  • Sleeping bags
  • Inflatable air mattresses
  • Walking sticks
  • Final day’s lunch in Machu Picchu town, also known as Aguas Calientes

Itinerary

Day 1: Cusco, Soraypampa, Humantay Lake, Salkantaypampa

After a 4:30 am pickup from your hotel and a 3 hour 30 minute drive across the Andes towards Soraypampa, you’ll get to enjoy an energizing breakfast as you marvel at the breathtaking views of the Humantay and Salkantay Mountains that lay before you.

We’ll then get the show on the road, starting the Salkantay Trek off with a 1 hour 30 minute uphill hike to the spectacular turquoise waters of Lake Humantay.

We’ll then head back to Soraypampa village and take a 1 hour gradual uphill hike to Salkantaypampa, where we’ll take a quick pitstop for a spot of lunch made by our local chef using fresh, organic, and locally grown ingredients.

Another 2 hour uphill hike from Salkantaypampa will then lead us to Soyroccocha which is located at the foothills of the Salkantay Mountain, the highest peak of the Vilcabamba Mountain range of the Andes.

While our team sets up the campsite in Soyroccocha for the night, you’ll be able to soak up the stunning views that Salkantay has to offer, as she stands vast and tall at a height of 6,271 m / 20,574 ft. above sea level. You’ll then get to enjoy teatime followed by a delicious dinner before winding down for the night

- Difficulty:Moderate
- Distance:14 km / 8.7 miles
- Altitude:3,900 m / 12,795 ft. above sea level
- 4,400 m / 14,435 ft. above sea level
- Time: 8 hours
- Weather:Cold and windy
- Meals:Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner
- Accommodation:Camping

Day 2: Salkantaypampa, Salkantay Pass, Wayracmachay, Lucmabamba

With a hot cup of tea brought straight to your tent, followed by a delicious breakfast, we’ll kickstart the morning with a 1 hour uphill hike which will take you to the magnificent Salkantay Pass. Lying at an elevation of 4,635 m / 15,200 ft. above sea level, the Salkantay Pass is the highest point on this beautiful trek to Machu Picchu.

After an exploration of the sprawling pastures of Salkantay Pass and soaking up the serenity exuded by the Salkantay glacier, we will take a 3 hour downhill hike to Wayracmachay which rests 3,800 m / 12,467 ft. above sea level. Here we’ll stop to enjoy a revitalizing lunch.

The trek will then take us on a 3 hour 30 minute journey through the heavenly climes of Peru’s cloud forests which features some of the world’s most biodiverse eco systems: over 3,000 varieties of orchids, over 300 species of birds including the Royal Sunangel Hummingbird, and magical mist clouds suspended up above with rivetingly temperamental changes in temperature and weather.

We’ll then arrive at Collpapampa, your campsite, located at an elevation of 3,770 m / 12,369 ft. above sea level, where you’ll enjoy teatime and dinner before winding down for the night.

- Difficulty:Moderate
- Distance:22 km / 13.7 miles
- Altitude:4,400 m / 14,435 ft. above sea level
- 4,600 m / 15,009 ft. above sea level
- Time:9 hours
- Weather:Cold and warm
- Meals:Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner
- Accommodation:Camping

Day 3: Lucmabamba, Coffee Tour, Hydroelectric Power Plant, Machu Picchu Town (Aguas Calientes)

After your morning cup of tea followed by a hearty breakfast, we’ll hit the ground running with a 4 hour gradual downhill hike to Lucmabamba. Along the way, you’ll chance upon some of the most magnificent Andean waterfalls and rivers, surrounded by exotic Peruvian flora and fauna. We’ll then pass through another marvelous microclimate nestled in the highlands of Peru, featuring locally farmed passion fruits, papayas, avocados, and jungle potatoes.

Upon reaching Lucmabamba, you’ll be taken on a tour of an organic coffee plantation, where you’ll get to prepare your own cup of artisanal coffee.

After enjoying a lovely lunch, we’ll hop into a van and drive down to the Machu Picchu Hydroelectric Power Plant which receives its waters from the turbulent and tropical, Vilcanota or Urubamba River to generate electricity for Peru’s Cusco region.

Upon reaching the Hydroelectric Power Plant, it’ll be time to say goodbye to our team. Our team makes sure our treks are nothing short of spectacular, so if you wish to tip them you may do so at this time.

We’ll then take a 3 hour walk along the train track to Machu Picchu town, also known as Aguas Calientes, famed as the same trail taken by Hiram Bingham in 1911 on his way to rediscovering Machu Picchu, the Lost City of the Incas.

The trail to Aguas Calientes is dotted with magnificently majestic fauna and flora like the endemic birds of Peru: the Rupicola Peruviana or Andean Cock-of-the-Rock, toucans, oropendolas, and parrots.

Upon arriving in Aguas Calientes, we’ll take you to your hotel for a brief respite.

In the evening, you’ll have dinner at a lovely Peruvian restaurant before retiring for the night.

- Difficulty:Moderate
- Distance:11 km / 6.8 miles
- Altitude:2,000 m / 6,561 ft. above sea level
- 2,400 m / 7,874 ft. above sea level
- Time: 8 hour
- Weather:Warm and humid
- Meals:Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner
- Accommodation:Hotel

Day 4: Citadel of Machu Picchu

With an early wake up call to kickstart the day, you’ll check-out of the hotel after enjoying a nutritious breakfast. Then it’s off to catch the bus so we can make it to Machu Picchu in time to witness the spectacular sunrise.

You’ll then get to enjoy the tour of Machu Picchu for 2 – 3 hours as our tour guide sheds light on the ancient Incan ways and the history behind the magnificent citadel. You’ll then get to explore Peru’s urban areas independently and enjoy a little spontaneous exploration of Peru’s famed archeological site.

You’ll then hop on the bus and head down to Machu Picchu town, also known as Aguas Calientes, where you will reunite with our tour guide.

You may then take a pitstop for lunch at a local restaurant (not included in the tour package) before hopping on a 2 hour train ride to Ollantaytambo. From here you will be chauffer driven to Cusco and dropped off safely at your hotel.

- Difficulty:Easy
- Altitude: 2,000 m / 6,561 ft. above sea level
- 2,400 m / 7,874 ft. above sea level
- Time: 2 – 3 hours
- Weather:Warm and humid
- Meals:Breakfast

Packing List

Day Pack

  • Backpack for hiking (25L to 30L)
  • Water (we provide water with every meal)
  • Sun hat
  • Rain gear
  • Fleece
  • Camera
  • Music (phone)
  • Hand sanitizer
  • Toilet paper and small plastic bag for waste

Official Papers

  • Valid and Original Passport (same passport used for booking your trek)
  • Travel insurance (we strongly recommend you take out travel insurance for your trip)

Duffle Clothing

- 3-4Wicking t-shirts
- 3-4Hiking pants
- 4 setsUndergarments
- 4 pairsHiking socks
- 1Fleece
- 1Warm down jacket (for the chilly night air)
- 1Rain jacket and pants
- 1Sun hat
- 1Woolen hat
- 1Swimsuit
- 1Headlamp (essential)
- 1 pairWaterproof gloves
- 1Waterproof jacket / rain poncho
- 1Large towel (we will be providing a small towel)
- 1Sleeping bag (we recommend down bags for 14 °F (- 10 °C), at least)
- Large plastic bags (to help organize and keep clean)
- Power banks (no outlet to plug in battery chargers while trekking)

Footwear

  • Sturdy hiking boots (waterproof, lightweight, broken-in with aggressive tread)
  • Comfortable shoes (walking shoes, sandals or other comfortable footwear to wear on campsites)
  • Flipflops

Travel Accessories

  • Reusable water bottle
  • Flashlight
  • Watch with alarm or travel clock
  • Toilet paper
  • Sunglasses and retainer strap
  • Sunblock and lip balm
  • Toiletry kit
  • Small washcloth
  • Earplugs
  • Personal first aid kit
  • Insect repellent and appropriate clothing for mosquitoes
  • Several ziploc bags

Extra Money For

  • Drinks
  • Tip or gratitude
  • Souvenir

 

Reviews

Important Info

Essential Information for Travelers on the Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu:

  1. Altitude Considerations: Be prepared for varying altitudes, reaching over 15,000 feet. Acclimatize in Cusco before the trek to minimize altitude-related issues.
  2. Physical Fitness: The trek is challenging. Regular exercise and stamina-building activities beforehand are advisable.
  3. Weather Conditions: Pack for diverse weather—cold at high altitudes, warm in the jungle. Layered clothing is crucial.
  4. Footwear: Ensure comfortable, broken-in hiking boots with good ankle support for varied terrains.
  5. Rain Gear: As the trek includes both mountainous and jungle sections, waterproof gear (jacket, pants) and a rain cover for your backpack are vital.
  6. Packing Essentials: Include a daypack, refillable water bottle, snacks, camera, sunscreen, insect repellent, and a hat.
  7. Permits and Guides: Secure necessary permits for both the Salkantay Trek and Machu Picchu. Consider hiring an experienced guide for a richer experience.
  8. Camping Gear: If trekking independently, arrange for camping gear or hire a tour company providing comprehensive services.
  9. Cultural Respect: Interact respectfully with locals, particularly in Quechua villages. Learn a few basic phrases in Quechua or Spanish.
  10. Health Precautions: Be aware of water purification methods, carry basic medical supplies, and consult a healthcare professional for travel vaccinations.
  11. Train Reservations: If taking the train back from Aguas Calientes to Cusco, book reservations in advance.
  12. Tour Operator Research: Choose a reputable tour operator with experienced guides, positive reviews, and a commitment to sustainable tourism.

Remember, preparation and thorough research enhance the enjoyment and success of the Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu.

Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu Map

Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu
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