Salkantay Trek A Machupicchu 3D/2N
Dificulty
Hard
Duration
3 Days / 2 Nigths
Group Size
13 a 18 people
Max Altitude
4,650 msnm
Description
The Ultimate Challenge to the Sacred Mountain
The Salkantay Trek is the best alternative route to Machu Picchu, but not everyone has the time to dedicate 5 days of hiking to the Wonder of the World. Do you have limited time but still want to enjoy a trek and see the incredible Salkantay Mountain? We have the perfect option for you: the 3-Day Salkantay Challenge! Hike over rugged mountainous terrain and through a thick, lush jungle to Aguas Calientes in just two days.
Although this route is shorter, you will still enjoy breathtaking landscapes. You will pass rustic bridges, snow-covered mountains, vibrant valleys, waterfalls, wildlife, unique plants, and the fascinating cloud forest. Your challenge will be complete when you arrive at the astonishing citadel of Machu Picchu, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. What better reward could you ask for?
Salkantay is known as the wild mountain. This adventure is specifically designed for those who want to hike to Machu Picchu but have limited time. Witness the astonishing biodiversity of the region’s ecosystem and observe how small communities live off the beaten path.
When you begin your journey, you will feel the excitement of knowing that you will see so much in so little time. On the first day, you will push your limits by climbing up to the Salkantay Pass at over 4,650 meters, where a magnificent glacial landscape awaits you. You will see the sacred Salkantay Mountain standing right before you. Along this route, you will witness some of the most incredible landscapes in the world. Later, you will make a radical transition into the warm climate of the Cloud Forest.
Spend the last night in Aguas Calientes and get a good rest before the final day. Day 3 is your visit to Machu Picchu, and you will find it hard to contain your emotions as you enter the archaeological site for the first time and take in the incredible fortress. You will enjoy an informative tour of approximately two hours. In the afternoon, you will return to Cusco to enjoy a well-deserved rest and relaxation.
Did you know that the Salkantay Trek is ranked as one of the top 25 hikes in the world by National Geographic Adventure Travel magazine? Join us and discover what it means to walk the sacred paths of the Incas.
Day 1: Cusco | Soraypampa – Salkantay Pass – Wayracmachay – Chaullay
Your adventure begins very early on the first day. We will pick you up from your hotel at 3:00 a.m. for a scenic three-hour drive in our private transportation through the Mollepata and Challacancha valleys before reaching our starting point at Soraypampa (3,800 m / 12,467 ft). Along the way, you will witness the stunning snow-capped peaks of Salkantay and Humantay, two colossal Inca gods, or Apus, as they are known in the Andes. Keep your eyes open for rolling hills, deep valleys, and fascinating wildlife in every direction.
Once we arrive at Soraypampa, we will enjoy a hearty breakfast and meet our trekking team while they prepare all the equipment and pack the mules for the hike. From here, we will begin the most challenging section of the route, hiking to the highest point of the trail, Salkantay Pass (4,650 m / 15,255 ft). Although the distance is only (7 km / 4.35 miles), it is a tough ascent that takes more than 4 hours. You will slowly make your way up the “Seven Serpents Trail”, named for its winding, zigzagging shape. Once at the top, you will enjoy breathtaking views of Salkantay Glacier (6,271 m / 20,570 ft) and the surrounding valley, with other spectacular peaks such as Pumasillo and Humantay. Salkantay is the second-highest mountain in the Cusco region.
After completing the day’s greatest challenge, we will descend for 2 hours to our lunch spot at Wayracmachay, where you will enjoy a delicious meal prepared by our chefs. After a refreshing lunch, we will enter the edge of the tropical jungle, also known as the cloud forest. This section is (9 km / 5.9 miles) and takes approximately 3 hours. Along the way, you will enjoy the lush rainforest and witness the landscape’s rapid and dramatic transformation from the Andes to the Amazon. You will see colorful scenery, unique wildlife, and native plants while feeling the warmer climate.
After a long day of hiking, you will be happy to arrive at our Chaullay campsite for the night. Finally, we will serve you a hearty meal before you rest in our exclusive Mountain Sky Cabins.
- Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner.
- Accommodation: Mountain Sky Cabins.
- Total hiking distance: 22 km / 14 miles.
- Total hiking time: 10 hours.
- Difficulty: Challenging.
- Minimum altitude: 2,900 m / 9,514 ft.
- Maximum altitude: 4,650 m / 15,255 ft.
- Lodging elevation: 2,900 m / 9,514 ft.
Day 2: Chaullay | Collpapampa – Lucmabamba – Hydroelectric – Aguas Calientes
Today, we will wake up around 5:30 a.m. with a coca tea wake-up call! Afterward, we will have breakfast and start hiking directly to La Playa, walking through the dense jungle and following the banks of the Salkantay River on a gradual trail. Along the route, we will stop at several local villages to enjoy fresh fruits and vegetables, such as passion fruit, banana, coffee, avocado, mango, orange, and papaya.
The hiking distance for this section is 14 km, and it takes approximately 4 hours to reach Lucmabamba, our lunch spot. This will be our last meal prepared by our amazing chefs while we relax and enjoy a coffee tour experience. After some rest, we will board private transportation to Hidroelectrica. From there, we will walk alongside the train tracks, which has a pedestrian trail that makes the journey more enjoyable. Surrounded by the Urubamba River in a tropical paradise, you will see more plantations and beautiful flowers, as well as a great variety of birds, including Peru’s national bird, the Andean Cock-of-the-Rock.
After three hours of hiking, we will arrive in Aguas Calientes, where we will transfer you to your hotel, so you can relax in your private room with a hot shower, Wi-Fi, and comfortable accommodations. In the evening, we will meet for dinner at a tourist restaurant.
- Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner.
- Accommodation: Hotel.
- Total hiking distance: 25 km / 15.53 miles.
- Total hiking time: 8 hours.
- Difficulty level: Moderate.
- Minimum altitude: 2,000 m / 6,561 ft.
- Maximum altitude: 2,900 m / 9,514 ft.
- Lodging elevation: 2,040 m / 6,692 ft.
Day 3: Aguas Calientes | Machu Picchu – Ollantaytambo – Cusco
Today will be the most important day of your excursion, so make the most of it! We recommend having an early breakfast, as you have two options for visiting the Machu Picchu archaeological park:
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By Bus: If you are feeling exhausted after several days of hiking, have muscle aches, or blisters, you may opt to take one of the first buses to Machu Picchu (starting at 5:30 a.m.). The bus ride from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu takes approximately 25 minutes (extra cost of $12 USD).
-
By Foot: If you prefer hiking, you can leave the hotel at 4:40 a.m. and walk for about 1 hour and 20 minutes. The first 20 minutes are on a flat path, while the remaining 50 minutes consist of steep staircases uphill.
Your hotel will store your luggage while you explore Machu Picchu, so you’ll only need to carry a daypack with your essentials. Once inside Machu Picchu, your guide will lead you to a strategic viewpoint where you can admire the Inca architecture and take the best postcard-worthy photos of Machu Picchu. Then, you will begin a 2-hour guided tour of the main sections of the citadel. Throughout the tour, you will learn more about the history and culture of the Inca Empire.
At the end of the guided tour, you will have free time to take more photos, explore, or, if you have a Huayna Picchu permit, your guide will show you where to begin this hike, which takes no more than 2 hours round trip (must be reserved in advance, costs $60 USD per person).
Alternatively, you can hike Machu Picchu Mountain instead of Huayna Picchu. This is a more challenging hike that takes a minimum of 3 hours round trip (extra cost of $60 USD per person).
Once you have fully enjoyed the breathtaking views of Machu Picchu, you can take the bus back to Aguas Calientes (extra $12 USD) or walk back. You will then have time for lunch (not included). Depending on your train departure time, you may also have time for shopping, sightseeing, visiting the museum, or relaxing in the hot springs.
The Expedition train will take you back to Ollantaytambo at 2:55 p.m. or 3:20 p.m., following the spectacular Urubamba River. Near Aguas Calientes, the canyon becomes narrow, and the river features beautiful whitewater rapids. Upon arrival in Ollantaytambo, your driver will be waiting at the train station to take you back to Cusco in our private vehicle. You can expect to arrive at your hotel around 7:30 p.m..
- Meals: Breakfast.
- Total hiking time: 1 hour 20 minutes.
- Machu Picchu visit duration: 2-3 hours.
- Difficulty level: Easy.
- Machu Picchu altitude: 2,400 m / 7,874 ft.
- Huayna Picchu altitude: 2,700 m / 8,858 ft.
- Machu Picchu Mountain altitude: 3,000 m / 9,842 ft.
Incluye
✓ HIGH-QUALITY SERVICE AND SAFETY
- Pre-Departure Briefing:
You will meet your guide one day before your trek at your hotel for an orientation session. The meeting will take place at 6:00 p.m.
✓ MACHU PICCHU ENTRANCE TICKET:
- Your Machu Picchu entrance ticket is included. There are several circuits available to explore the citadel, and we guarantee the best option available at the time of your reservation.
✓ First option (if available): Circuit 2:
- Llaqta Machu Picchu / Classic Route 2-A, which leads to the iconic panoramic viewpoint and allows you to explore about 70% of the citadel.
✓ Alternative option: Circuit 2-B:
- Lower Terrace, which also offers access to the classic viewpoint and about 60% of Machu Picchu.
- To secure one of these circuits, we recommend booking your tour 3 to 4 months in advance. If neither is available, we will select an alternative circuit that provides access to specific areas of Machu Picchu. You can find more details about the circuits at tuboletto.cultura.pe.
✓ FIELD STAFF
- Professional Guides – Certified Protocols:
Our trekking specialists are selected from accredited universities. They are fluent in English and have 3 to 10 years of experience leading treks in the region. Our guides are skilled in group management under pressure, first aid, and rescue techniques. Most of them come from Andean communities, bringing their cultural heritage to enrich your experience. - Chefs – Certified Protocols:
Our chefs are trained in local gastronomy schools, specializing in modern Andean cuisine, traditional Peruvian dishes, international food styles, vegetarian, and vegan options. They are experts in nutrition and food safety, ensuring hygienic and high-quality meals. - Horsemen & Pack Horses:
Our horsemen and their pack horses are crucial to your experience, carrying all camping equipment, food supplies, and personal duffel bags (up to 7 kg per participant, including sleeping bags). This allows you to hike comfortably with only a small daypack containing your essentials.
✓ 7KG DUFFEL BAG SERVICE:
- During the briefing session, you will receive a duffel bag with a 7 kg capacity for your personal belongings. Our team will transport it on pack horses throughout the trek and ensure it is available at the campsites, so you can hike with only your daypack.
✓ ACCOMMODATION
- Private Campsites:
Like our Inca ancestors, we are committed to Pachamama (Mother Earth). Our campsites and lodges are eco-friendly and designed to minimize environmental impact. - Hotel in Aguas Calientes:
You will spend the last night in a comfortable hotel in Aguas Calientes, which includes luggage storage while visiting Machu Picchu.
Rooms are available in double, twin, and triple configurations.
✓ KITCHEN EQUIPMENT & UTENSILS:
- We provide all necessary kitchen equipment and utensils for meal preparation. Our team transports them to each campsite to ensure optimal meal conditions.
✓ MEALS
- Meals:
- 3 breakfasts, 2 lunches, 2 dinners.
- Wake-up tea service.
- Tea time (happy hour).
- Trail snacks.
- Hygiene products.
✓ TRANSPORTATION
- Day 1:
Pick-up from your hotel in the morning, followed by private transportation with the group to the trek starting point. - Day 3:
Transportation from Ollantaytambo train station to Cusco.
✓ Train Ticket from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo:
- Train departures are typically at 2:30 p.m., 2:55 p.m., or 3:20 p.m., depending on availability.
After exploring Aguas Calientes, having lunch, and relaxing, make sure to arrive at the train station at least 30 minutes before departure.
The train ride to Ollantaytambo takes about 1.5 hours. Upon arrival, a Bestrek representative will be waiting with your name.
You will then travel by car back to Cusco, which takes approximately 2 hours, arriving at Plaza Regocijo around 7:00 p.m.
✓ Personal Belongings Transport:
- We ensure the safe transportation of your personal items throughout the journey.
✓ EMERGENCY EQUIPMENT & REMOTE MEDICAL ASSISTANCE
- Radios:
Our guides, chefs, and porters communicate via radios with a 10 km range and 8 frequencies. They can also contact Salkantay park rangers in case of emergencies. - First Aid Kit:
We carry a fully stocked medical kit - Antiseptics: Alcohol, hydrogen peroxide, iodine tincture, germicidal soap.
- Basic medical supplies: Cotton, gauze, bandages, medical tape, surgical gloves.
- Pain relief: Muscle pain and stomachache relievers, antipyretics.
If you take prescription medication, please bring your own supply.
✓ Portable Oxygen Tank:
- Available at all times in case of altitude sickness.
✓ Important Notice:
- Only licensed medical professionals can prescribe medication. Our guides DO NOT have the authority to prescribe treatment to clients. Medications will be administered only with your consent and at your own responsibility. If you require prescription medication, we strongly recommend bringing your own.
No Incluye
× ENTRANCE TICKET TO THE SALKANTAY TRAIL:
- On the first day, an entrance ticket must be paid to the local government of Mollepata. The cost is 20 soles for foreigners (approximately 6 USD) and 10 soles for Peruvians (approximately 3 USD). The payment is made in soles and in cash at the entrance.
× SLEEPING BAG:
- If you do not have your own, you can rent one from our company. Our sleeping bags are efficient and durable, protecting you from temperatures as low as -18°C (0°F). They are mummy-shaped and include a sleeping liner. The sleeping bags are cleaned after each trip.
Rental available: 20 USD at Bestreks agency.
× TREKKING POLES:
- With extra rubber tips included in our service, these are very useful for rough terrains and for ascending and descending. You can rent a pair at our company.
Rental available: 20 USD at Bestreks agency.
× HUAYNA PICCHU MOUNTAIN:
- Huayna Picchu is the mountain behind the citadel, commonly seen in the background of the classic images of Machu Picchu. Only 400 spots are available per day, distributed in two shifts: from 7:00 a.m. to 8:00 a.m. (200 spots) and from 9:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m. (200 spots). Tickets are required and usually sell out months in advance. The ascent takes only 45 minutes, and the round-trip journey lasts approximately 2 hours. The most stunning aspect of this hike is the 360-degree view from the summit, overlooking the Inca ruins, the winding Wilkamayu River (Urubamba), and the lush mountainous landscape.
Huayna Picchu Mountain: 60 USD.
× MACHU PICCHU MOUNTAIN:
- Machu Picchu Mountain is located opposite Huayna Picchu. It offers a panoramic view of the Machu Picchu archaeological site, Huayna Picchu Mountain, Putucusi Mountain, the winding Wilkamayu River (Urubamba), the lush mountainous landscape, and the final part of the Classic Inca Trail. The hike is not particularly dangerous or difficult but will require all your strength. The time to climb Machu Picchu Mountain depends on the hiker’s physical condition and can range from 1 to 1.5 hours to ascend or 2 to 3 hours for a round-trip hike.
Machu Picchu Mountain: 60 USD.
× DRINKING WATER FOR BOTTLES:
- We do not include bottle refills, but we provide cold and hot beverages at every meal. For bottled water, you have two options: purchasing mineral water from small stores along the Salkantay Trail, with prices ranging from 5 to 12 soles per 2.5-liter bottle, or bringing a filter or purification tablets for mountain water.
× INTERNET CONNECTION:
- There is no cell phone signal from 9:00 a.m. on the first day until reaching the camp. At the first campsite, Wi-Fi is available for 10 soles. On the second day, there is usually some cell signal in certain areas. On the third day, there is cell signal and Wi-Fi at the hotel.
× SHOWERS AND BATHROOMS ALONG THE ROUTE:
- Restrooms are available at the campsites at no cost, but locals may charge 1 sol for their use along the trail. Hot showers are available at the campsite for 10 soles, while cold showers are free. On the second day, hot showers are available at the hotel in Aguas Calientes.
× LUNCH IN AGUAS CALIENTES AND DINNER IN CUSCO ON DAY 3.
× PERSONAL CLOTHING AND HIKING GEAR.
× TRAVEL INSURANCE:
- This is not mandatory, but we always recommend that our clients purchase it in case of flight issues or unexpected health problems. Please check if your travel insurance policy has altitude restrictions, as some policies may not be valid above 4,000 meters (13,123 feet).
× ADDITIONAL COSTS:
- Delays beyond the control of the administration (landscape, bad weather, itinerary modifications due to safety concerns, illness, government policy changes, political instability/strikes, etc.).
✓ TIPS FOR YOUR CREW:
- Tipping is a standard practice in tourism and any excursion to Machu Picchu. Although we pay good wages to all our staff, any extra contribution is always welcome, especially considering the hard work they do. Usually, group members collect tips to distribute among the porters and chefs together, while the guide and assistant receive theirs after the Machu Picchu visit.
∴ ESSENTIALS
- Original Passport
If you booked your trip with an old passport and later renewed it, your passport number has likely changed. It is crucial to inform us so we can update this information at least 10 days before your arrival in Peru. As soon as you receive your new passport, notify Bestrek. Failure to do so in advance may result in additional costs and complications for last-minute updates. Also, make sure your passport is valid for the entire duration of your trip. - Student ID
If you booked your trip with a student discount using an ISIC card, you must bring the original and valid document (no copies or expired cards). It will be required at control points along the route. Without it, you will not be allowed to enter Machu Picchu or Huayna Picchu. - Backpack
Choose a small, ergonomic backpack for comfort. Machu Picchu only allows backpacks up to 25 liters; larger bags must be stored outside the site. - Water Storage
Bring 1.5 to 2 liters of water in a Camelbak or reusable bottle. You will also be able to purchase water along the way. - Hiking Boots
Select lightweight boots with good traction, and make sure you have worn them before to avoid blisters. - Headlamp
Essential for hikes during early morning or late hours.
∴ FOR YOUR DUFFEL BAG
- Clothing
- 1-2 moisture-wicking t-shirts.
- 1-2 pairs of hiking pants.
- 2 sets of underwear.
- 2 pairs of hiking socks.
- 1 fleece jacket and 1 warm down jacket for cold nights.
- 1 waterproof jacket and pants.
- 1 sun hat and 1 wool hat for different temperatures.
- Comfortable shoes for camping and sturdy boots for hiking.
- Waterproof gloves.
- Rain poncho or waterproof jacket.
∴ PERSONAL HYGIENE
- Quick-dry towel.
- Biodegradable soap in a small bottle.
- Battery charger (power sources are scarce on the trail).
- Large plastic bags to organize and protect items.
- Sleeping bag (rated for at least -10°C for cold nights).
- Toiletries.
- Sunscreen and facial moisturizer for skin protection.
- Insect repellent and hand sanitizer for hygiene.
- Wet wipes for quick clean-ups.
- Toothbrush and toothpaste.
- Toilet paper for personal use.
- Personal medications and a basic first aid kit.
∴ INSIDE YOUR DAYPACK
- Water: Bring enough for the first day; refills will be provided afterward.
- Rain and fleece clothing: Be prepared for changing weather conditions.
- Camera or smartphone: Capture unforgettable moments.
- Music: An iPhone or similar for entertainment.
- Hand sanitizer: Maintain cleanliness.
- Toilet paper and small plastic bags: Manage waste responsibly.
- Extra money: For additional purchases and tips.
- Earplugs: For a quiet rest.
∴ NOTES
- Waterproofing: Protect your belongings from rain and moisture.
- Comfort: Wear well-fitted and comfortable footwear to avoid blisters.
- Organization: Use compartments to keep essential items within reach.
Following this complete list will help ensure a comfortable and memorable experience during your Salkantay trek.
✓ SALKANTAY TREK PRICE
- Price per person:
- $380 USD – Adults
- $360 USD – Children & Students
- To book the Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu, a $190 USD deposit per person is required. The remaining balance can be paid online or at our office in Cusco.
✓ Student Discount
- Travelers under 17 years old receive a $20 USD discount.
- If you are 25 years old or younger at the time of travel, you may also qualify for a discount with a valid student ID.
- Please email us to receive a discount code.
✓ VALID STUDENT ID REQUIREMENTS FOR MACHU PICCHU
- To receive the student discount, travelers must present a valid student ID that meets the following criteria:
✓ ISIC Card Notice
- The International Student Identity Card (ISIC) is recognized in many countries but is NOT accepted by the Peruvian government for student discounts at Machu Picchu.
- Just like a passport cannot be replaced, a student ID cannot be substituted by an ISIC or any other document for discounts in Peru.
- The Peruvian government strictly enforces student ID policies. You must present a physical student ID that meets the requirements at the Machu Picchu entrance.
- If your ID does not comply with Peruvian regulations, you may be denied entry and required to pay the full ticket price (subject to availability).
- Ensure your student ID meets the Peruvian standards before booking a student-discounted Machu Picchu ticket.
✓ OPTIONAL ADD-ONS & UPGRADES
Enhance your Salkantay Trek experience with these optional services:
- Huayna Picchu Mountain: $60.00 USD
- Machu Picchu Mountain: $60.00 USD
- Single Hotel Room (Aguas Calientes): $30.00 USD
- Extra Night in Aguas Calientes: $50.00 USD
- Vistadome Train (Aguas Calientes – Ollantaytambo): $70.00 USD
✓ Additional Equipment for Rent
- Sleeping Bag: $20.00 USD
- Trekking Poles (Pair): $20.00 USD
✓ PRICE GUARANTEE
- Once your booking is confirmed, we guarantee that the price will not increase, regardless of circumstances. Before booking, please read all important tour information carefully.
✓ HOW TO BOOK
- Booking the Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu is easy!
- Online Reservation: Secure your spot through our website. Our booking platform will guide you through the process step by step.
- Payment Options:
- Credit/Debit Card Payments: Available in your local currency.
- Deposit Payment: Pay the required $190 USD deposit online and settle the remaining balance later.
- Full Payment Option: Pay the total tour cost in advance online.
✓ REMAINING BALANCE PAYMENT
- If you choose to pay only the deposit, the remaining balance must be settled one day before your tour in Cusco.
- Payment can be made in USD or Peruvian Soles (cash) or via card payment (5% service fee applies).
- Online payment via our website is also available (5% service fee applies).
- If you prefer, you can pay the total tour cost upfront when making your reservation.
✓ CANCELLATION POLICY
- Bestreks’ cancellation policy is as follows:
- Due to strict regulations set by the Machu Picchu National Park, once your reservation is made, the permit is non-refundable, non-transferable, and cannot be modified.
- If you cannot arrive on the scheduled date, no refunds will be issued.
- Bestreks purchases permits immediately upon reservation confirmation, and they cannot be refunded under any circumstances.
- If you cancel 30+ days in advance, you will forfeit your deposit but will retain the entrance tickets we have purchased for you.
✓ Cancellation Within 2-3 Days of the Trek
- If you cancel within 2-3 days before your trek, it will be considered a “no-show”, and you must pay 100% of the total tour cost.
- However, you will still receive:
- Your Machu Picchu entrance tickets
- A guided visit to Machu Picchu on your scheduled tour date
- Train and bus tickets
✓ Leaving the Trek Early
- If you decide to leave the trek due to personal reasons after it has started, you will automatically forfeit all included services.
- Any additional costs for food, transport, or accommodation during your return will be your responsibility.
- You may rejoin the group in Machu Picchu for the guided tour and use your bus & train tickets to return to Ollantaytambo.
✓ Uncontrollable Events
- Circumstances beyond our control (strikes, protests, flight cancellations, extreme weather, or hotel overbookings) may impact your trip.
- In such cases, we will suggest alternative arrangements if available. Any additional costs will be the traveler’s responsibility.
✓ IMPORTANT RECOMMENDATIONS
- We strongly recommend that you fully understand our booking and cancellation policies before making a payment. This ensures that your investment is protected, and your booking process is seamless for your Salkantay adventure!
✓ BRIEFING SESSION
- All briefing sessions take place the evening before your trek at our main office in Cusco (or at your hotel) at 6:00 p.m. During this session, your guide will also provide you with your duffel bag. The briefing lasts approximately 30 to 45 minutes. If you are unable to attend, you must coordinate a different time via email or phone call.
✓ PAYMENT OF REMAINING BALANCE (IN CUSCO)
- If you still have an outstanding balance, you must pay it at least one day before your trek/tour. Otherwise, your booking will not be confirmed.
- We highly appreciate cash payments (USD or Peruvian Soles) at our Cusco office or during the briefing.
- You can withdraw money from various ATMs along Avenida El Sol (both in USD and Soles).
- Credit/debit card or IZIPAY payments are also available (online or in person); however, a 5% service fee applies due to processing fees from Niubiz and IZIPAY.
✓ PICK-UP SERVICE
- Pick-ups are only available within the city of Cusco. We highly recommend booking a centrally located hotel in the historic center for easy access.
- Your guide or our staff will confirm your exact pick-up time the day before your tour. Due to traffic conditions, pick-up times may vary by 30 to 45 minutes.
- Cusco is an ancient city with narrow, cobblestone streets. Some hotels and Airbnbs are located in areas without vehicle access or on steep inclines. For convenience, we strongly recommend choosing accommodation with easy access.
✓ LOST ITEMS
- Please be mindful of your belongings and double-check before leaving our transportation, campsites, or restaurants. You are responsible for your personal items throughout the tour.
✓ WEATHER CONDITIONS
- Weather in the Andes is unpredictable. Although the dry season (April to October) generally has little rain, it is still possible to experience unexpected showers in June or sunshine in December.
- Always be prepared for rain: Bring a waterproof jacket, pants, poncho, and gloves. Many hikers forget gloves, but wet and cold hands can make the trek uncomfortable.
- Be ready for all four seasons: The trek crosses multiple microclimates. Layering your clothing is essential for adapting to temperature changes. Nights can be extremely cold, so bring a warm jacket.
✓ ALTITUDE SICKNESS (SOROCHE) & STOMACH ISSUES
- Altitude Sickness (Soroche): If you are arriving from a sea-level location, we recommend arriving in Cusco at least two days before your trek to allow for proper acclimatization.
- Common symptoms include headaches and nausea.
- Over-the-counter medications like Aspirin, Diamox, Sorojchi Pills, or Alti Vital can help reduce symptoms.
- If symptoms persist, oxygen therapy may be necessary. We have the equipment and trained staff ready to assist you if needed.
✓ Stomach Issues
- Digestive discomfort is common among travelers due to slow digestion at high altitudes.
✓ Tips to prevent stomach issues:
- Drink 3–4 liters of water per day to stay hydrated.
- Hot drinks, especially coca leaf tea, are highly recommended.
Eat light, easy-to-digest foods: soups, vegetables, and carbohydrates (avoid fried or heavy foods).
Snacks like chocolates, cookies, and fruits can provide quick energy.
✓ Avoid alcohol and smoking.
To adapt to the altitude, follow these general rules:
- Eat in moderation.
- Drink plenty of fluids.
- Get at least 8 hours of sleep.
- Avoid strenuous physical activity until fully acclimatized.
- Keep warm with appropriate clothing to protect against the cold.
Salkantay is the second-highest mountain in the Cusco region, standing at 6,271 meters (20,574 feet). It is part of the Vilcabamba mountain range, located 6 km (3.7 miles) west-northwest of Cusco in the central Peruvian Andes. The name Salkantay means “Wild Mountain” and has been considered a Sacred Deity that controls the climate and fertility by locals since the Inca era.
The Salkantay mountain features extreme weather conditions. Daytime temperatures can reach 25°C (77°F), while nighttime temperatures may drop to -10°C (14°F). However, these temperatures vary depending on the season.
Salkantay from October to March
From October to March, the rainy season occurs. During these months:
- Days are cloudy, with average temperatures around 19°C (66°F).
- Nights are milder, around 4°C (39°F).
- Rainfall is frequent, making the trek more challenging.
Salkantay from April to September
From April to September, the dry season takes place. During these months:
- Days remain stable at around 20°C (68°F).
- Nights are the coldest of the year, dropping to -10°C (14°F).
- Less rain makes trekking conditions more favorable.
Most travelers fly to Cusco. However, Cusco’s airport only operates domestic flights. If traveling internationally, you will need to collect your baggage in Lima and check it in again for your flight to Cusco.
The airlines that operate flights between Lima and Cusco include:
- LATAM Airlines (Recommended)
- AVIANCA Airlines
- Star Peru
For those who prefer land travel, buses are available from Lima to Cusco, but the journey takes approximately 24 hours.
It is very important to acclimate before starting the trek. We recommend arriving in Cusco at least 2 days before the trek begins to adjust and prevent altitude sickness.
If you have already been in another high-altitude area in Peru, 1 day in Cusco should be enough to rest and recover.
No specific training is required, but we recommend:
- Using a treadmill with an incline setting.
- Climbing stairs or using a stair climber.
This preparation will help improve your endurance for the trek. We also suggest spending at least 2 days in Cusco before starting the trek.
We highly recommend lightweight trekking shoes.
- Ankle-supporting boots are useful, especially for beginners.
- The trek includes many steps built by the Incas, so comfortable, supportive footwear is essential.
Trekking poles are not mandatory, but they are highly recommended because:
- Trails vary in altitude and are not always even.
- They help reduce pressure on your knees.
- They make ascending and descending easier.
Note: If bringing your own poles, ensure they have rubber tips, as required by park rangers. If you forget them, rubber tips are available for purchase in Cusco.
Any unnecessary luggage for the trek should stay in Cusco.
- Most hotels offer secure luggage storage.
- If your hotel does not provide storage, you can leave your bags at our office until the trek ends. We will keep them safe for you!
We offer a variety of local superfoods and traditional Peruvian dishes, including:
- Rice, chicken, beef
- Salads, potatoes, vegetables
- Fresh fruits
We also provide vegetarian options and can accommodate special dietary requests with prior notice.
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