Salkantay Trek + Llaqtapata to Machu Picchu 5d/4n
Dificulty
Hard
Duration
5 Days / 4 Nigths
Group Size
8 a 12 personas
Max Altitude
4,650 msnm
Description
If you are one of those adventurous people, who love nature and also love to explore the best hiking routes in the world. Join us alone or as a couple or as part of a group.
The Salkantay Trek is the second most popular route to Machu Picchu after the Inca Trail and one of the most mind-blowing destinations in Peru. You will cross a wide variety of landscapes; not only through the highest mountains in Cusco, such as the Salkantay, but also experience two stunning Inca sites: Llaqtapata and Machu Picchu. This combination makes this one unique.
During the journey, each night, you will be able to relax in comfortable rooms and savor some of the most delicious meals, all in the heart of the mountains. Our experienced guides will accompany you every step of the way, sharing their deep knowledge of the region’s history and natural wonders. Experience this journey in comfort and excellent company, surrounded by the beauty of the Andes. You will visit the famous Humantay lagoon, camp at over 4,000 meters of altitude and sleep where few venture! Then you will test your limits by climbing up to the Salkantay Pass at over 4,650 meters; where a magnificent glacial landscape awaits you. Later, you will make the radical transition to the warm climate of the Cloud Forest.
On day 3, you will have a hike inside the jungle brow. You will appreciate the unique flora and fauna of the Cusco jungle. You will visit an organic farm and delight yourself with the best Peruvian coffee and in the afternoon the hot springs of Cocalmayo.
On day 4, you will arrive at the impressive site of Llaqtapata, along the Inca trail where you will be able to admire Machu Picchu from a distance for the first time. After a last night in a hotel, you will finish the tour with a guided visit to the world wonder: Machu Picchu and return to Cusco aboard the panoramic trains.
Day 1: Cusco | Mollepata – Challacancha – Soraypampa – Humantay Lagoon.
We will pick you up at your hotel around 04:30 a.m. We proceed to drive almost 2 hours to Anta – Mollepata. During the bus ride, you can observe the snow-capped white mountains of Salkantay and Veronica – the holy gods of the Incas. Also, you will catch a glimpse of the spectacular views of the highlands and the low valleys with colorful landscapes.
After two hours of driving, we will make the first stop in the town of Mollepata, where there are restrooms and breakfast. Then, the trip will continue to Challacancha (the starting point of our trek). There we will meet our support staff, organize all the equipment, horses and mules and have an introductory meeting. At approximately 9:30 a.m. we will start our trek to Soraypampa (3,900 m/ 12,795 ft). The first part of the road is a paved rock trail. On the way, we will see the old water channel that still supplies water to the new inhabitants. The first stretch is 6 km that we will complete in 3 hours to reach Soraypampa, the lunch spot. This will also serve as our base camp.
After lunch and a nap, we will continue the hike to the Humantay Lagoon (4,200 m/ 13,780 ft). This is a 4 km hike that will take 3 hours round trip. Once we reach the lake, we can observe the Humantay glacier and the stunning sunset. Soraypampa is located in the middle of the glacial valleys where at night it is so dark with no ambient light making it a perfect place to appreciate the constellations in the sky.
• MEALS: breakfast, lunch, dinner.
• ACCOMMODATION: mountain sky cabins.
• TOTAL WALKING DISTANCE: 10 km /6.21 miles.
• TOTAL WALKING TIME: 6 hours.
• DIFFICULTY LEVEL: Moderate.
• MINIMUM ALTITUDE: 3,800 m /12,467 ft.
• MAXIMUM ALTITUDE: 4,200 m /13,780 ft.
• ACCOMMODATION ELEVATION: 3,900 m /12,975 ft.
Day 2: Soraypampa | Salkantay Pass – Huayracmachay – Chaullay.
We will have a beautiful sunrise early at 5:00 a.m. with coca tea brought to your cabin. Then, we quickly pack up, enjoy our breakfast and immediately start hiking to the highest point of the Salkantay trail (4,650 m/15,255 ft). The distance is 7 km which we should complete in 4 hours. During the ascent through the rocky valley, we can observe the magnificent Salkantay peak and we can even see chinchillas on the trail. Once we reach the top of the trail, we will enjoy spectacular views of the mountains and the imposing snow-capped peaks of Salkantay, Humantay and Pumasillo.
Salkantay is considered the second highest mountain in the Cusco region and one of the main Inca gods known as “Apu Salkantay”. Hiking to the top is the hardest part of the entire hike. You will feel so accomplished! The next 3 hours we spend downhill on the trail along a rocky and gravel road to reach Huayracmachay, our lunch spot. In the afternoon we will reach the top of the rainforest, also called “cloud forest”. We will walk 9 km in 3 hours until we reach Chaullay (2,900 m/ 9,514 ft) our base camp. The second half of the day during the descent, we will observe the thick forest that is decorated with colorful orchids and native plants. Most of the year the weather is warm and pleasant.
• MEALS: breakfast, lunch, dinner.
• ACCOMMODATION: mountain sky cabins.
• TOTAL WALKING DISTANCE: 22 km /14 miles.
• TOTAL HIKING TIME: 10 hours.
• DIFFICULTY LEVEL: challenging.
• MINIMUM ALTITUDE: 3,900 m /12,795 ft.
• MAXIMUM ALTITUDE: 4,650 m /15,255 ft.
• ACCOMMODATION ELEVATION: 2,900 m /9,514 ft.
Day 3: Chaullay | Collpapampa – Lucmabamba – Santa Teresa hot springs.
Around 5:30 a.m. wake up with coca tea! Next, we have breakfast and then start walking straight to the beach; walking through the thick jungle and following the bank of the Salkantay River on a gradual trail. On the route, we stop at several family-run hamlets to enjoy the local fruits and vegetables (passion fruit, banana, coffee, avocado, mango, orange and papaya).
The distance of the trail is 14 km and the walking time is 5 hours until we reach Lucmabamba, our base camp. After the hike you will have the coffee tour. Here, you will visit a local family, where they will guide you through the entire coffee growing process, from planting to harvesting and roasting and you will even have the opportunity to prepare and taste your own freshly brewed cup.
Lucmabamba is a small town surrounded by coffee and can provide the basic facilities (toilets, electricity, shopping and souvenirs) and serves as our lunch point and free afternoon.
Afternoon options after lunch: The afternoon is free to relax, with the option to visit the Santa Teresa Cocalmayo hot springs, especially rewarding after three days of hiking. The additional cost for the hot springs visit is approximately 40 soles, which covers round-trip transportation to the hot springs (approximately one hour each way) and the 10 soles entrance fee. You will be able to decide whether to participate in this activity at the camp, with coordination from your guide, or choose to rest at the Lucmabamba camp.
Visit to the Santa Teresa Hot Springs: If you opt for the hot springs, you will be taken there by local transportation and spend approximately 2 hours there before returning to the Lucmabamba camp. After dinner, you will receive information and details for the next day’s itinerary, which leads to the Machu Picchu base village of Aguas Calientes.
• MEALS: breakfast, lunch, dinner.
• ACCOMMODATION: mountain sky cabins.
• TOTAL WALKING DISTANCE: 14 km /8.69 miles.
• TOTAL WALKING TIME: 5 hours.
• DIFFICULTY LEVEL: Moderate.
• MINIMUM ALTITUDE: 2,900 m /9,514 ft.
• MAXIMUM ALTITUDE: 2,900 m /9,514 ft.
• ACCOMMODATION ELEVATION: 2,000 m /6,562 ft.
Day 4: Lucmabamba | Llaqtapata – Hydroelectric – Aguas Calientes.
Today we will enjoy the sunrise in a lush landscape of rivers, waterfalls, orchids and many plantations, including banana, avocado and coffee. We will have a nutritious breakfast and prepare for the next part of our trekking adventure, Here we follow a wide, well-preserved and original Inca trail.
Llaqtapata is an Inca archaeological center located along the Salkantay trail, which you will have the opportunity to visit on the fourth day. From Llaqtapata, you will enjoy a beautiful view of Machu Picchu from a unique angle. Hike uphill for 3 hours along the original Inca trail until you reach the Inca ruins of Llaqtapata. Once at the Inca site, you will have plenty of time to enjoy the views of Machu Picchu and Huayna Picchu, and if the weather is good, you will be able to see the Salkantay mountain once again.
Then, we will hike downhill for 3 hours, arriving at Hidroeléctrica for a nutritious lunch and a well-deserved rest. The final part of the trek is a 3-hour walk along the train tracks to Aguas Calientes. Once you reach the small town, we will take you to your hotel where you can shower and rest before our final dinner at 7:00 pm at a tourist restaurant. After dinner, we will go to bed, looking forward to our last day and the ultimate reward: Machu Picchu.
• MEALS: breakfast, lunch, dinner.
• ACCOMMODATION: hotel.
• TOTAL WALKING DISTANCE: 25 km /15.53 miles.
• TOTAL HIKING TIME: 9 hours.
• DIFFICULTY LEVEL: challenging.
• MINIMUM ALTITUDE: 2,000 m /6,562 ft.
• MAXIMUM ALTITUDE: 2,800 m /9,186 ft.
• ACCOMMODATION ELEVATION: 2,040 m /6,693 ft.
Day 5: Aguas Calientes | Machu Picchu – Ollantaytambo – Cusco.
Today will be the most important day of your excursion, you have to make the most of the day. That is why it is recommended to have breakfast very early, the last day you have a couple of options to visit the archaeological park of Machu Picchu.
- If you are very tired after so many days of walking or you have some muscle pain or some blisters you can choose to get on one of the first buses to Machu Picchu (starting at 5:30 a.m.). The bus ride from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu will take approximately 25 minutes (extra $12 USD).
- The other option is usually to walk very early leaving the hotel at 4:40 a.m. The walk is 1.20 hour, the first 20 minutes is flat and easy, the other 50 minutes is uphill.
The hotel will store your bags while you are in Machu Picchu, and this way, you will only be asked to carry a backpack with all the essentials. Once in Machu Picchu, your guide will lead you to a strategic point where you can observe the Inca architecture of Machu Picchu, and take the best postcard photos of Machu Picchu. You will then begin the guided tour of the main sectors of the citadel, for a time of 2 hours. Throughout this guided tour, you will learn a little more about the history and culture of the Inca Empire.
At the end of the tour, you will have some more free time so you can continue with the photo shoot and explore what you have left to visit, or if you have arranged to hike Huayna Picchu your guide will show you where to begin this hike, which will take no more than 2 hours round trip. (It must be booked in advance, as they sell out and it costs $60 USD per person).
Machu Picchu Mountain is also another hike, instead of Huayna Picchu Mountain. This hike is more difficult and takes 3 hours minimum, round trip (extra cost of $60 USD per person).
When you have had your fill of the exceptional views of Machu Picchu, you can take the bus back to Aguas Calientes (extra $12 USD). Or you can walk back, for lunch (not included). Depending on the departure time of your train, you may also have time for some shopping, sightseeing, or visiting the museum or 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 is narrow and the river has many beautiful whitewater sections. Back in Ollantaytambo, your driver will meet you outside the train station to take you back to Cusco in our car. You can expect to arrive at your hotel by 7:30 p.m.
• MEALS: breakfast.
• TOTAL WALKING TIME: 1.20 hours.
• DURATION OF VISIT TO MACHU PICCHU: 2-3 hours.
• DIFFICULTY LEVEL: easy.
• ALTITUDE OF MACHU PICCHU SITE: 2,400 m /7,874 feet.
• ALTITUDE OF HUAYNAPICCHU MOUNTAIN: 2,700 m /8,858 feet.
• MACHU PICCHU MOUNTAIN ALTITUDE: 3,000 m /9,842 feet.
Incluye
✓ HIGH QUALITY SERVICE AND SAFETY.
- Pre-departure briefing:
You will meet your guide one day before the trek at your hotel for an orientation before your trek. The meeting will be at 6:00 p.m.
✓ MACHU PICCHU ARCHAEOLOGICAL SITE ENTRANCE TICKET:
- The entrance ticket to Machu Picchu. There are several circuits to explore the citadel and we assure you the best option available at the time of making your reservation.
- Our first option, if available, is Circuit 2: Llaqta Machu Picchu / Classic Route 2-A, which takes you to the iconic panoramic viewpoint and allows you to explore about 70% of the citadel.
- If this circuit is not available, we will reserve Circuit 2-B: Lower Terrace, which also offers the classic viewpoint and access to 60% of Machu Picchu.
- To ensure you get one of these circuits, we recommend booking your tour 3 or 4 months in advance. If none of these options are available, we will select an alternative circuit that allows access to specific areas of Machu Picchu. You can find more details about the circuits at the following link tuboletto.cultura.pe.
✓ FIELD STAFF.
- Professional guides:
Specialized in trekking and selected from accredited universities. Our guides are fluent in English and have three to ten years of experience in different treks in the region. They are experts in handling groups under pressure and are experts in first aid and rescue techniques. Most of them come from different Andean communities and bring with them their cultural heritage. Together with the rest of the field team, our guides will make your trip a unique experience. - Chefs:
Trained in local culinary schools, they are experts in modern Andean cuisine, traditional Peruvian food, international food styles, and vegetarian and vegan cuisine. They are thoroughly knowledgeable about the nutritional properties of their meals and are experts at cooking as quickly as possible. And all of this, of course, with a strong emphasis on food hygiene and safety during preparation. - Team of muleteers and horses:
Our team of muleteers and their horses are essential to the success of the experience, as they are responsible for transporting all camping equipment, food supplies, and other necessary loads along the route. The horses also carry the duffel bags with up to 7 kilos of personal belongings per participant, including sleeping bags. This way, you can walk with only a small backpack with your essentials, while our team transports your luggage from one camp to another, allowing you to fully enjoy the hike.
✓ SERVICE OF A LOMA BAG FOR THE TRIP FOR 7 KILOS:
- During the briefing, you will be provided with a duffel bag that allows you to pack up to 7 kilos of your personal belongings. Our team will transport these duffel bags on horses throughout the tour, ensuring that you have access to them at the campsites. This service allows you to walk comfortably with just your backpack.
✓ ACCOMMODATION.
- Personal Accommodation in Private Campsites:
Like our ancestors, we are very considerate of Pachamama (Mother Earth). That is why our camps and lodges are adapted to the environment so as not to generate negative impacts. - Hotel in Aguas Calientes:
You will spend the last night in a comfortable hotel in Aguas Calientes, including luggage storage, while visiting Machu Picchu.
Accommodation is in double, twin, and triple rooms.
✓ KITCHEN EQUIPMENT AND UTENSILS:
- We provide you with all the equipment and utensils necessary for the preparation and service of meals. Our team is responsible for transporting them to each campsite, ensuring that you enjoy your meals in optimal conditions.
✓ FOOD.
- Meals:
- 5 breakfasts, 4 lunches, 4 dinners.
- Wake-up service.
- Tea time or happy hour.
- Snacks along the way.
- Hygiene products.
✓ TRANSPORTATION.
- Day 1:
You will be picked up from your hotel in the morning and travel by private transport with the group to the trekking point. - Day 5:
Transport from Ollantaytambo train station to Cusco.
✓ Train ticket from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo:
- Normally, the train ticket leaves at 14:30, 14:55, or 15:20, depending on availability. You will have time to explore the charming town of Aguas Calientes, enjoy lunch, and relax. Make sure to arrive at the train station at least 30 minutes before departure. The train ride to Ollantaytambo takes approximately 1.5 hours. Once you arrive, you will have a transfer from the Bestreks agency waiting for you with your name on it. You will then travel by car back to Cusco, which takes another 2 hours, with a drop-off at Plaza Regocijo. You can expect to return to Cusco around 7:00 PM.
- Portable oxygen tank.
✓ IMPORTANT:
- Please note that only a medical professional can write a prescription. Our guides DO NOT have the power to prescribe treatment for clients throughout the hike, and all medications will be administered under your consent and at your own risk. If you have a prescription, it is recommended that you bring your own medication(s).
No Incluye
× ENTRANCE TICKET TO HUMANTAY LAGOON:
- On the first day of the hike you will visit Humantay Lagoon. For this site you must pay an entrance ticket to the local government of Mollepata, the cost is 20 soles for foreigners (approximately 6 dollars) and 10 soles for Peruvians (approximately 3 dollars). Payment is made in soles and in cash upon entering the lagoon.
× SLEEPING BAG:
- If you do not have your own, you can rent one from our company. Our sleeping bags are effective and durable to protect you from temperatures as low as -18°C (0°F). They are mummy-shaped and include a sleeping bag. The bags are cleaned after each trip.
(Rentals available for $20 USD at the bestreks agency).
× TREKKING POLES:
- With rubber tips Extras included in our service are very useful for rough terrain and for ascending and descending you can rent a pair at the company.
(Rentals available $20 USD at the bestreks agency).
× HUAYNA PICCHU MOUNTAIN:
- The Huayna Picchu mountain behind the citadel and commonly seen in images as the background in every classic image of Machu Picchu. Each day, only 400 spaces are offered per day in 2 available shifts. From 7:00 a.m. to 8:00 a.m. (200 spaces) and from 9:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m. (200 spaces). Tickets are required and sell out a few months in advance. To reach the top will take only 45 minutes and a round trip takes approximately 2 hours. Perhaps the most amazing aspect of this hike is the 360-degree view from the summit, which overlooks the Inca ruins, the meandering Wilkamayu (Urubamba) River, and the lush mountain landscape.
Huayna Picchu Mountain: $60 USD.
× MACHU PICCHU MOUNTAIN:
- Machu Picchu Mountain is located on the opposite side of Huayna Picchu Mountain. It offers the panoramic view of the Machu Picchu archaeological site, Huayna Picchu Mountain and the Putucusi Mountains, the meandering Wilkamayu (Urubamba) River, the lush mountain landscape, and the last part of the Classic Inca Trail. The hike is not really dangerous, nor difficult to do, but it will require all your strength. The amount of time to hike to Machu Picchu Mountain depends on the physical condition of the person and can vary from 1 to 1.5 hours to climb or 2 to 3 hours (round trip).
Machu Picchu Mountain: $60 USD.
× SANTA TERESA COCALNAYO HOT SPRINGS:
- On the third day of hiking, you will finish around 11 am. Then, you will have lunch and free time in the afternoon. Most visitors choose to visit the Santa Teresa Hot Springs, which are about an hour’s drive from the Lucmabamba campsite. This option costs approximately 50 soles per person, which covers round-trip transportation and entrance to the local hot springs from the campsite to the hot springs. This payment can be made directly on site.
× DRINKING WATER FOR BOTTLES:
- We do not include refilling of water bottles, but we do provide hot and cold drinks at each meal. For bottled water, you have two options: buy mineral water in small shops along the Salkantay Trail, with prices ranging from 5 to 12 soles per 2.5 liter bottle, or bring a filter or purification tablets for mountain water.
× INTERNET CONNECTION:
- There is no cell signal from 9:00 a.m. on the first day until you reach the second campsite. At this campsite, you can access WI-FI for 10 soles. After the third day, you will generally have cell signal in some parts and Internet access on the 4th and 5th day you will have cell signal and WI-FI at the hotel.
× SHOWERS AND BATHROOMS ALONG THE ROUTE:
- Bathrooms are available at the campsites at no cost, but locals may charge 1 sol to use them along the trail. As for showers, the second camp offers hot showers for 10 soles, while cold showers are free. You also have the option to visit the hot springs on the third day or use the showers at the Aguas Calientes hotel on the fourth day. Showers are generally not available at the first camp due to the low temperatures.
× LUNCH IN AGUAS CALIENTES AND DINNER IN CUSCO ON DAY 5.
× CLOTHING AND PERSONAL HIKING EQUIPMENT.
× TRAVEL INSURANCE:
- This is not a requirement, but we always recommend that our clients purchase it in case problems arise with their flights or unexpected health problems arise. Please note if your travel insurance policy has altitude restrictions – some policies are void above (4,000m /13,123ft)
× ADDITIONAL COSTS:
- Delays beyond management’s control (landscape, bad weather, itinerary modification due to a safety issue, illness, change in government policy, political instability/strike, etc.
✓ TIPS FOR YOUR CREW:
- Tipping is a norm in tourism or on any excursion
∴ ESSENTIALS:
- Original Passport:
If you have booked the service with your old Passport and then renewed it and obtained another one, you have most likely changed the number of the same. Please inform us so that we can update this information. This modification must be made before your trip to Peru (at least 10 days before your trip). As soon as you have your new passport, please inform bestreks of this change. Otherwise, this update or modification will have an additional cost and it is very inconvenient to update it at the last minute. Please confirm that it is valid throughout your trip. - Student Card:
Those passengers who booked their trip using the discounted price for students who hold ISIC, must carry their original and valid CIIU card (not a copy, not expired). This document must be shown at the checkpoints along the route. Unfortunately, if you do not carry your card, you will not be able to enter Machu Picchu, Huayna Picchu. - Backpack:
Choose a small, ergonomic backpack to be comfortable while hiking. For Machu Picchu, bags larger than 25 liters are not allowed. Larger bags must be stored outside. - Water storage:
Carry 1.5-2 liters of water; consider a Camelbak or similar system, you can buy water along the way. - Hiking boots:
Select lightweight options with good traction. - Headlamp:
A must for visibility early or late in the day.
FOR YOUR LOMA TRAVEL BAG:
- 2-3 moisture-wicking t-shirts.
- 2-3 pairs of hiking pants.
- 3 sets of underwear.
- 3 pairs of hiking socks.
- 1 fleece jacket and 1 warm down jacket for cold nights.
- 1 waterproof jacket and pants for unpredictable weather.
- 1 sun hat and 1 wool hat for different temperatures.
- Comfortable shoes for camping and sturdy boots for hiking.
- Waterproof gloves (ski gloves are fine).
- Rain jacket/rain poncho for heavy rain.
- Quick-dry towel (larger than provided, if preferred.
- Small bottle of soap for personal hygiene.
- Battery charger (power sources are scarce on the trail)
- Large plastic bags to organize and protect items.
- Sleeping bag (resistant to at least -10°C for cold nights)
- Toiletries.
- Sunscreen and facial moisturizer to protect skin.
- Insect repellent and hand sanitizer for hygiene.
- Wet wipes for quick cleanups.
- Toothbrush and toothpaste for oral hygiene.
- Toilet paper for personal use.
- Personal medications and a basic first aid kit.
INSIDE YOUR BACKPACK:
- Water: Bring enough water for the first day; refills will be provided afterwards.
- Rain gear and fleece: Stay adaptable to changing weather.
- Camera or smartphone: Capture the memories.
- 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 peaceful rest.
NOTES
- Waterproofing: Protect your items from rain and moisture.
- Comfort: Wear comfortable, well-fitting shoes to prevent blisters.
- Organization: Use compartments to keep essentials close at hand. Following this comprehensive checklist will help ensure a memorable and comfortable experience during your Salkantay trek.
✓ Price per person:
- $460 USD – Adults.
- $440 USD – Children and students.
To book the Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu, a down payment of $230 USD per person is
required. The remaining balance can be paid online or at our office located in Cusco.
✓ Student discount:
- All travelers under 17 years of age receive a $20 USD discount. If you are 25 years old or
younger at the time of travel, you can get the discount with your student ID. Please email us
for a discount code.
✓ Student credential valid for Machu Picchu:
- To obtain the student discount, travelers must have a valid ID with the following:
✓ Note on the ISIC Card:
- Although the International Student Identity Card (ISIC) is recognized in many countries, it is not accepted by the Peruvian government for student discounts at Machu Picchu. Just as a
passport cannot be substituted for any other type of identification for international travel, the student ID card cannot be substituted for an ISIC or any other document for discounts in Peru. - Peruvian government policy is strict regarding student accreditation. It is essential to present a student ID card that meets these criteria in order to qualify for student-priced tickets, as you will be asked to show your physical student ID card when you enter Machu Picchu. If you do not meet these requirements upon arrival at Machu Picchu, there is a significant risk of being denied entrance and having to pay the full entrance fee, depending on availability. Therefore, it is essential to make sure that your student card complies with Peruvian regulations before booking your trip to Machu Picchu as a student.
✓ Add-ons and upgrades:
- Complementary services and improvements that you can include in this trip:
- Huayna Picchu Mountain: $60.00 USD.
- Machu Picchu Mountain: $60.00 USD.
- Single hotel (Hotel in Aguas Calientes): $30.00 USD.
- Extra night in Aguas Calientes: $50.00 USD
- Vistadome Train (Aguas Calientes – Ollantaytambo): $70.00 USD.
✓ Additional equipment:
- Additional items you can rent for this trip:
- Sleeping bag: $20.00 USD.
- Trekking poles (pair): $20.00 USD.
✓ Price guarantee:
- Once your reservation is confirmed, we guarantee that the price will not increase, regardless of
the circumstances. Therefore, before booking, be sure to read all the important information
about the tour.
✓ How to book:
- Booking the Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu is easy. You can book your place online our
website, where our booking platform will guide you step by . Payment for the tour can be
made with any credit or debit card, and you can also pay in the currency of your home country
for convenience.
✓ Salkantay Trek Reserve:
- To reserve your place on the Salkantay Trek, we require a non-refundable deposit of $230 USD.
This deposit secures your place on the trek and allows us to purchase your Machu Picchu
tickets and train tickets, which must be purchased well in advance. - Our booking platform gives you the option to pay only the deposit, along with the additional
options you select, or you can choose to pay the full amount of the tour in advance. If you
choose to pay only the deposit, the remaining balance can be paid upon arrival in Cusco, one
day prior to the tour departure.
✓ Payment of the remaining balance:
- If you choose to pay only the prepayment, the remaining
balance must be paid upon arrival in Cusco one day before the start of the . The balance can be
paid in soles or dollars in cash or by credit card (with an additional 5% charge). You also have
the option to pay online on our website with a 5% charge.
✓ Full payment option:
- you can choose to pay the full cost of the tour online at the time of
booking.
✓ CANCELLATION OF YOUR RESERVATION:
- The bestreks agency has the following policies regarding the cancellation of reservations: Due to the strict rules established by the Machu Picchu National Park, once the reservation is made, the space and permit purchased cannot be cancelled. It is also not possible to transfer the permit to another person with a different name. The date of your permit cannot be modified either. Therefore, if you are unable to arrive on the scheduled date, no refunds will be made. Permits are non-refundable and the bestreks agency will purchase the permits as soon as your booking confirmation is sent. If you cancel 30 or more days in advance, you will forfeit your first deposit but you will be entitled to the tickets we have purchased for you.
- If you cancel between 2 and 3 days before your trip, it will be considered a “no show” and you will have to 100% of the total cost. You will be entitled to the entrance tickets we have purchased for you, a guided visit to Machu Picchu on the day that was scheduled in your original itinerary, train ticket and bus ticket.
- If you decide to stop for personal reasons once the trek has started, you will automatically lose all services included. Any costs you incur during your return, such as food, transportation or lodging, will be at your own expense. However, you can meet the group at Machu Picchu for the visit, where you will be able to use your entrance ticket, participate in the guided tour, take the bus back to Aguas Calientes and the train back to Ollantaytambo.
- Events beyond our control that make any part of the trip impossible, such as strikes, protests, flight cancellations, weather conditions or overbooking of hotels or flights. In any of these cases, we will suggest alternative arrangements (if available) to make the trip possible. Any costs associated with these alternative arrangements will be the responsibility of the traveler.
- Recommendations: We strongly recommend that you fully understand all reservation and
cancellation policies before making your payment to ensure that your investment is protected and that you have a seamless booking experience for your Salkantay trek adventure.
✓ Informative meeting or briefing:
- All briefings and briefings are held one evening before your trip begins at our main office in
Cusco (or at your hotel) at 6:00 p.m. and also your guide will give you the mountain bag. These
meetings last approximately 30 to 45 minutes. In case you are unable to attend, you will have
to coordinate another time by email, or call.
✓ Payment of the balance of the trek (in Cusco)
- If you still have an outstanding balance, you must pay it 1 day before your trek/tour, otherwise
your trip reservation will not be confirmed. If possible, it would be appreciated if you pay the
balance of the trek/tour in cash, either in US dollars or local currency, at our office in Cusco or
at the briefing time. You can withdraw money from several ATMs along Avenida Sol (either in
US dollars or Peruvian soles). You can also pay by credit/debit card or through IZIPAY, online or
in person, but you will have to pay a 5% service charge, issued by our payment gateway
(Niubiz) and IZIPAY.
✓ Customer pickup: Please
- note:
All pick-ups are within the city of Cusco, but we recommend that you book a hotel in the
historic center with a good location. Our guide or staff will confirm your pick-up time the day
before the tour. Due to traffic conditions, pick-up times can vary between 30 to 45 minutes.
Cusco is an ancient city with many narrow cobblestone streets. Some hotels and Airbnbs are
located on streets with no transportation access or on long, steep climbs, making it difficult to
move your luggage. We strongly recommend that you book accommodation with easy access. - Lost and found:
Please pay attention to where you leave your things and remember to pick up everything once
you leave our transportation, campsites or restaurants. You are solely responsible for your
belongings during the tour. - Weather:
Of course, the weather is unpredictable. Usually the dry season in Cusco is from April to
October, but this does not preclude rain in June or sunshine in December, so be prepared, no
matter what month you are trekking, make sure you have a rain gear that includes a
waterproof jacket, pants, poncho and waterproof gloves. Many people forget about gloves, but
the cold and wet weather makes walking very unpleasant.
Also, be prepared for four seasons. Hiking in the Andes involves various microclimates, and you
will need to be prepared. Layers are always essential as they are easy to adjust to different
temperature . Be prepared with a warm jacket as the night will be cold. - Altitude sickness (soroche) and pain:
For those hikers coming to Cusco directly from places at sea level, we recommend arriving 2
days before their trek. Two of the most common health problems among tourists in Cusco are:
Altitude sickness (Soroche) and stomach pain caused by slow digestion. Altitude sickness; some
of the symptoms are: headache and nausea. There are some over-the-counter medications
(pills) that help minimize the symptoms of this problem, Aspirin, Diamox, Soroichi Pill, alti vital,
among others. If symptoms persist, the next step is the use of oxygen. In these circumstances,
we have the equipment and personnel ready to help our hikers.
Stomach pain; It is recommended to drink 3-4 liters of water a day. Your body will need it to
stay hydrated. Hot drinks such as coca leaf tea are especially recommended. Also soups,
vegetables and carbohydrates (not fried or heavy). Sweets, chocolates, cookies and fruits are
also a good option. In general, all foods that are easily digested. Do not drink alcohol or smoke.
Try to sleep at least 8 hours and do not exercise too much. Keep your body at an adequate
temperature by wearing warm clothes to protect you from the cold. During altitude adaptation
there is a general rule to follow: eat what is necessary and drink plenty of fluids.
Salkantay is the second highest mountain in the Cusco region at 6,271 m / 20574 ft. It is located
in the Cordillera de Vilcabamba, west-northwest 6 km from Cusco in the central range of the
Peruvian Andes. Salkantay means “Wild Mountain” and is considered a Sacred Deity that
controls the weather and fertility by the locals since Inca times.
The 5 Day Salkantay Trek offers a more relaxed pace. On Day 3, we stay at Lucmabamba camp,
allowing time to relax and even visit the thermal baths of Santa Teresa Cocalmayo. On Day 4,
we explore the archaeological site of Llaqtapata and on Day 5 Machu Picchu.
The key difference in the 4 Day Salkantay Trek is that on Day 3, instead of staying at
Lucmabamba Camp, we go directly to Hidroelectrica and Aguas Calientes. This makes Day 3
more challenging, as it includes a 3-hour hike from Hidroelectrica to Aguas Calientes. On Day 4,
you will visit the site of Machu Picchu.
Salkantay has an extreme climate. During the day temperatures reach 25℃ while at night they can -10℃ . However, this varies depending on the time of year. Salkantay from October to March:
From October to March is the rainy season. During these months, days are cloudy (19℃ ) and nights are not as cold (4℃ ), compared to the rest of the year. However, the frequency of rainfall increases considerably, making travel more difficult.
Salkantay between April and September:
April to September is the dry season. During these months, the days in Salkantay remain stable (20℃ ). However, nights have their lowest temperatures of the year (-10℃ ). Despite this, the weather is less rainy, which makes trekking in the snow-capped mountains more feasible.
Most people travel to Cusco by air. Please note that Cusco airport operates only domestic flights. Therefore, if you are coming directly from If you are flying from Lima to Cusco, you will need to pick up your luggage at the airport and check it back in for your flight to Cusco.
There are four airlines that fly back and forth between Lima and Cusco: LATAM Airlines, AVIANCA Airlines, Star Peru. All of these airlines offer similar flight schedules and services, but we generally recommend LATAM Airlines. You also have the option of traveling to Cusco by land. Please note that the trip from Lima to Cusco takes approximately 24 hours.
It is very important to be well acclimatized before going on a trek. We recommend that you arrive in Cusco at least days before you start your trek to help you adapt and avoid possible problems with altitude sickness during the trek. You will likely have already been to another high altitude area of Peru before arriving in Cusco in this case, we recommend that you rest for a day in Cusco to recover.
While no specific training is required to do the treks in Cusco, we suggest that the best way to prepare physically is to exercise on the treadmill, selecting the steep slope setting, as well as going up and down stairs or using the stair climber. Please note that you will need between 2 days in Cusco before the start date of your trek.
We always recommend using trekking shoes that are as light as possible. The ones that provide ankle support are very useful, especially for inexperienced hikers, as they will be climbing up and down many stairs made by our ancestors, the Incas.
Walking sticks are always useful for hikers, especially when completing this hike. This is because there are many trails that vary in altitude and are not always straight. Therefore, when you are on these trails, using walking sticks can really help relieve the pressure built up on your knees as well as help you climb the mountain. Also, our walking sticks are adjustable. Therefore, when you are not using them, you can shorten them so they don’t bother you. For those who want to bring their own walking sticks, make sure they have rubber tips or the rangers will not allow you to use them. In case you forgot to bring them from your home country, you can buy rubber tips in Cusco.
All luggage not needed for the trek must be left in Cusco. All hotels in Cusco are accustomed and prepared to store luggage. In case you have nowhere to store your luggage, you can leave it in our offices until our adventure ends. We will make sure your luggage is safely stored, don’t worry!
We offer a variety of local superfoods and traditional Peruvian dishes, such as rice, chicken, beef, salads, potatoes, vegetables, delicious, and fruits, freshly prepared by our local chef. We also have excellent vegetarian options and cater to specific dietary requests with proper preparation and good communication.
Send Us a Message