Salkantay Trek To Machu Picchu 4D/3N
Dificulty
Hard
Duration
4 Days / 3 Nights
Group Size
8 a 12 personas
Max Altitude
4,650 msnm
Description
If you are one of those adventurous people, who loves nature and also loves to explore the best hiking trails in the world. Join us alone or as a couple or as part of a group. Salkantay Trek 4 days to Machu Picchu, is the perfect option if you are looking to escape the routine of daily life. This trek takes you through some of the most impressive landscapes of the Peruvian Andes.
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. 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 trip in comfort and excellent company, surrounded by the beauty of the Andes. You’ll visit the famous Humantay Lagoon, camp at over 4,000 meters above sea level, and sleep where few venture! Then you’ll test your limits by climbing up to the Salkantay Pass at over 4,650 meters; where a magnificent glacial landscape awaits you. Later, you’ll make the radical transition to the warm climate of the Cloud Forest.
Did you know that the Salkantay Trek is listed as one of the 25 best treks 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 | Mollepata – Challacancha – Soraypampa – Humantay Lagoon.
We will begin the Salkantay Trek by picking you up from your hotel around 4:30 a.m. We will travel for 3 hours in our private transport to the starting point of the trek. After two hours of driving, we will make our first stop in the town of Mollepata, where there are sanitary services and the first breakfast. Then, the trip will continue for another hour to Challacancha (the starting point of our hike). There, we will meet our support staff, organize all the equipment, horses, and mules, and have an introductory meeting. Around 9:30 a.m., we will start our hike towards Soraypampa (3,900 m/12,795 ft). The first part of the trail is a paved rock path. Along the way, we will see the ancient water channel that still supplies water to the new inhabitants. The first stretch is 6 km, which we will complete in 3 hours to reach Soraypampa, the lunch site. This will also serve as our base camp. After lunch and a short rest, we will continue the hike to 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 glacial valleys, where the night sky is incredibly dark, making it a perfect place to admire the constellations. • 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
ou will be woken up early at 5:00 a.m. with coca tea brought to your cabin. We will pack our extra items and duffel bags, then have a delicious breakfast. Afterward, we will start our hike to the highest point, Salkantay Pass (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 see the magnificent Salkantay Peak (6,272 m/20,577 ft) and may even spot chinchillas along the trail. Once we reach the top, 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 Salkantay Pass is the most challenging part of the entire trek. You will feel a great sense of accomplishment! The next 3 hours will be spent descending along a rocky and gravel path to reach Huayracmachay, our lunch site. In the afternoon, we will enter the cloud forest. We will hike 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 lush forest 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 WALKING TIME: 10 hours.
• DIFFICULTY LEVEL: challenging.
• MINIMUM ALTITUDE: 2,900 m /9,514 ft.
• MAXIMUM ALTITUDE: 4,650 m /15,255 ft.
• ACCOMMODATION ELEVATION: 2,900 m /9,514 ft.
Day 3: Chaullay | Collpapampa – Lucmabamba – Hydroelectric – Aguas Calientes
We will wake up around 5:30 a.m. with coca tea! After breakfast, we will start our hike towards La Playa, walking through the dense jungle and following the Salkantay River on a gradual trail. Along the route, we will stop at several family settlements to enjoy local fruits and vegetables (passion fruit, banana, coffee, avocado, mango, orange, and papaya). The trail distance is 14 km, and the walking time is 4 hours until we reach Lucmabamba, our lunch site. This will be our last meal prepared by our amazing chefs while we relax and watch a coffee tour demonstration. After some rest, we will take private transport to Hydroelectric. From there, we will walk alongside the train tracks on a pedestrian trail, making the journey more pleasant. Surrounded by the Urubamba River in a tropical paradise, we will see more plantations and beautiful flowers, as well as a variety of birds, including Peru’s national bird, the Andean cock-of-the-rock. After a three-hour hike, we will arrive at Aguas Calientes, where we will transfer you to your hotel so you can relax in your comfortable room with a private bathroom, hot shower, and Wi-Fi. In the evening, we will meet for dinner at a tourist restaurant.
• MEALS: breakfast, lunch, dinner.
• ACCOMMODATION: hotel.
• TOTAL WALKING DISTANCE: 25 km /15.53 miles.
• TOTAL WALKING TIME: 8 hours.
• DIFFICULTY LEVEL: moderate.
• MINIMUM ALTITUDE: 2,000 m /6,561 ft.
• MAXIMUM ALTITUDE: 2,900 m /9,514 ft.
• ACCOMMODATION ELEVATION: 2,040 m /6,692 ft.
Day 4: Aguas Calientes | Machu Picchu – Ollantaytambo – Cusco
Today will be the most important day of your tour, so make the most of it. It is recommended to have breakfast very early. There are two options to visit Machu Picchu:
- Take one of the first buses to Machu Picchu (starting at 5:30 a.m.). The bus ride takes 25 minutes (extra $12 USD).
- Walk early, leaving the hotel at 4:40 a.m. The hike takes 1 hour and 20 minutes.
Your guide will give you a guided tour of Machu Picchu for about 2 hours.
• MEALS: breakfast.
• TOTAL WALKING TIME: 1.20 h.
• MACHU PICCHU TOUR DURATION: 2-3 h.
• 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 with your guide the day before the trek at your hotel for an orientation. The meeting will be at 6:00 p.m.
✓ ENTRANCE TICKET TO THE MACHU PICCHU ARCHAEOLOGICAL SITE:
- The entrance ticket to Machu Picchu. There are several circuits to explore the citadel, and we ensure the best available option at the time of 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 around 70% of the citadel.
✓ If this circuit is not available, we will book 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 to 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 – professional guide protocols:
Specialized in trekking and selected from accredited universities. Our guides are fluent in English and have three to ten years of experience on different treks in the region. They are experts in handling groups under pressure and are trained in first aid and rescue techniques. Most of them come from different Andean communities, bringing their cultural heritage. Along with the rest of the field team, our guides will make your trip a unique experience. - Chefs – cook protocols:
Trained in local gastronomy schools, they are experts in modern Andean cuisine, traditional Peruvian food, international cuisine styles, and vegetarian and vegan cooking. They have in-depth knowledge of the nutritional properties of their meals and are skilled in preparing food quickly. Of course, all of this is done with a strong emphasis on hygiene and food safety during preparation. - Horsemen and horses:
Our team of horsemen and their horses are essential for 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 allows you to walk with only a small backpack with your essentials while our team transports your luggage from camp to camp, enabling you to fully enjoy the trek.
✓ DUFFEL BAG SERVICE FOR THE TRIP – 7 KILOS:
- During the briefing session, 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 trek, ensuring that you have access to them at the campsites. This service allows you to hike comfortably with only your daypack.
✓ ACCOMMODATION.
- Personal Accommodation in Private Campsites:
Just like our ancestors, we are very considerate of Pachamama (Mother Earth). That is why our campsites and lodges are adapted to the environment to avoid any negative impact. - Hotel in Aguas Calientes:
You will spend the last night in a comfortable hotel in Aguas Calientes, including luggage storage while you visit Machu Picchu.
Accommodation is available in double, twin, and triple rooms.
✓ KITCHEN EQUIPMENT AND UTENSILS:
- We provide you with all the necessary equipment and utensils for meal preparation and service. Our team ensures they are transported to each campsite, guaranteeing that you enjoy your meals in optimal conditions.
✓ MEALS.
- Meals:
- 4 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 3 dinners.
- Wake-up tea.
- Tea time or happy hour.
- Snacks on the trail.
- Hygiene products.
✓ TRANSPORTATION.
- Day 1:
You will be picked up from your hotel in the morning and travel in private transportation along with the group to the starting point of the hike. - Day 4:
Transportation from the Ollantaytambo train station to Cusco.
✓ Train ticket from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo:
- The train ticket is usually scheduled for 2:30 p.m., 2:55 p.m., or 3:20 p.m., 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 journey to Ollantaytambo takes approximately 1.5 hours. Upon arrival, a Bestreks agency transfer will be waiting with your name. Then, you will travel by car back to Cusco, which takes another 2 hours, arriving at Plaza Regocijo. Expect to return to Cusco around 7:00 p.m.
✓ Personal belongings transportation.
✓ EMERGENCY EQUIPMENT AND REMOTE MEDICAL ASSISTANCE.
- Radios:
They have a range of 10 km and 8 frequencies for our guides, cooks, and porters to communicate with each other. Additionally, the radios can be used to contact the Salkantay park rangers in case of an emergency. - First aid kit:
It includes alcohol, hydrogen peroxide, iodine tincture, germicidal soap, cotton, gauze, bandages, medical tape, surgical gloves, painkillers for muscle and stomach pain, and antipyretics. If you take prescription medications, you can bring your own. - Portable oxygen tank.
✓ IMPORTANT:
- Please note that only a medical professional can issue a prescription. 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 have a prescription, we recommend that you bring your own medications.
No Incluye
× ENTRANCE TICKET TO HUMANTAY LAGOON
- On the first day of the trek, you will visit Humantay Lagoon. To enter this site, you must pay an entrance fee 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 upon entry to 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, protecting you from temperatures as low as -18°C (0°F). They have a mummy shape and include a sleeping liner. The sleeping bags are cleaned after each trip.
(Rental available for $20 USD at Bestreks agency).
× TREKKING POLES
- With extra rubber tips included in our service, they are very useful for rough terrain and for ascending and descending. You can rent a pair from our company.
(Rental available for $20 USD at Bestreks agency).
× HUAYNA PICCHU MOUNTAIN
- The Huayna Picchu Mountain is located behind the citadel and is commonly seen in images as the background of the classic Machu Picchu photo. Each day, only 400 spaces are available in two 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 months in advance. Reaching the summit takes about 45 minutes, and the round trip lasts approximately 2 hours. The most breathtaking aspect of this hike is the 360-degree view from the top, overlooking the Inca ruins, the winding Wilkamayu (Urubamba) River, and the lush mountainous landscape.
Huayna Picchu Mountain: $60 USD.
× MACHU PICCHU MOUNTAIN
- Machu Picchu Mountain is located on the opposite side of Huayna Picchu. It offers a panoramic view of the Machu Picchu archaeological site, Huayna Picchu Mountain, Putucusi Mountain, the winding Wilkamayu (Urubamba) River, 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 hiking time to Machu Picchu Mountain depends on the individual’s physical condition and can take between 1 to 1.5 hours to climb or 2 to 3 hours round trip.
Machu Picchu Mountain: $60 USD.
× DRINKING WATER FOR BOTTLES
- We do not include bottled water refills, but we provide cold and hot drinks at each meal. For bottled water, you have two options: purchase mineral water at small shops along the Salkantay Trail (prices range 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 cellphone signal from 9:00 a.m. on the first day until reaching the second campsite. At this campsite, Wi-Fi is available for 10 soles. After the third day, you will generally have a cellphone signal in some areas, and on the 3rd and 4th days, there will be cellphone reception 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. Regarding showers, the second campsite offers hot showers for 10 soles, while cold showers are free. On the third day, you can use the hotel showers in Aguas Calientes. Typically, there are no showers available at the first campsite due to low temperatures.
× LUNCH IN AGUAS CALIENTES AND DINNER IN CUSCO ON DAY 4.
× PERSONAL HIKING CLOTHING AND GEAR.
× TRAVEL INSURANCE
- This is not a requirement, but we always recommend that our clients purchase travel insurance in case of flight issues or unexpected health problems. Please check if your travel insurance policy has altitude restrictions, as some policies are void above (4,000 m / 13,123 ft).
× ADDITIONAL COSTS
- Delays beyond management control (landscape, bad weather, itinerary changes due to safety concerns, illness, government policy changes, political instability/strikes, etc.).
✓ TIPS FOR YOUR CREW
- Tipping is a common practice in tourism and any excursion to Machu Picchu. Although we pay fair wages to our entire team, extra tips are always appreciated, especially considering the hard work they do. Usually, group members pool their tips to distribute them among the porters and chefs together, and for the guide and assistant after the Machu Picchu visit.
∴ ESSENTIALS:
- Original Passport:
If you booked your service with an old passport and later renewed it, your passport number has likely changed. Please inform us at least 10 days before your trip to Peru so we can update this information. Last-minute modifications will incur an additional cost and significant inconvenience. - Student ID Card:
If you booked your trip using a student discount with a valid ISIC card, you must carry your original, valid card (not a copy, not expired). This document must be shown at checkpoints along the route. Without it, you will not be able to enter Machu Picchu or Huayna Picchu. - Backpack:
Choose a small, ergonomic backpack for comfort during hikes. Machu Picchu does not allow bags larger than 25 liters; larger bags must be stored outside. - Water Storage:
Bring between 1.5 and 2 liters of water. A Camelbak or similar system is recommended. Water can be purchased along the trail. - Hiking Boots:
Select lightweight options with good traction. - Headlamp:
Essential for visibility at dawn or dusk.
∴ FOR YOUR TRAVEL DUFFEL BAG:
- 2-3 moisture-wicking 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 rain jacket and pants for unpredictable weather.
- 1 sun hat and 1 wool hat for different temperatures.
- Comfortable camp shoes and sturdy hiking boots.
- Waterproof gloves.
- Waterproof jacket/rain poncho for heavy rains.
- Quick-dry towel.
- Small bottle of soap for personal hygiene.
- Battery charger (power sources are scarce on the trail).
- Large plastic bags for organizing and protecting items.
- Sleeping bag (at least -10°C resistant 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 for oral hygiene.
- 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 later.
- Rain gear and fleece: Stay adaptable to changing weather conditions.
- Camera or smartphone: Capture 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.
✓ Salkantay Tour Price
- Price per person:
- $440 USD – Adults
- $420 USD – Children and students
To book the Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu, an initial payment of $220 USD per person is required. The remaining balance can be paid online or at our office in Cusco.
✓ Student Discount:
- All travelers under 17 years old 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 to receive a discount code.
- Valid Student ID for Machu Picchu Discount: To obtain the student discount, travelers must have a valid ID with the following:
- Note about 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 replaced by any other document in international procedures, the student ID cannot be substituted by an ISIC or any other document for discounts in Peru.The Peruvian government has strict policies regarding student accreditation. It is mandatory to present an ID that meets these criteria to qualify for student-priced tickets, as you will be required to show the physical student ID upon entering Machu Picchu. If your ID does not meet these requirements, you risk being denied entry and having to pay the full ticket price, depending on availability. Therefore, it is essential to ensure your student ID complies with Peruvian regulations before booking your trip to Machu Picchu as a student.
✓ Add-ons and Upgrades: Additional services and enhancements 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: Items you can rent for this trip:
- Sleeping bag: $20.00 USD
- Trekking poles (pair): $20.00 USD
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✓ Price Guarantee:
- Once your reservation is confirmed, we guarantee that the price will not increase, regardless of circumstances. Therefore, before booking, make sure to read all important information about the tour.
✓ How to Book:
- Booking the Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu is easy. You can book your spot online through our website, where our reservation platform will guide you step by step. The tour payment can be made using any credit or debit card, and you can also pay in your home country’s currency for convenience.
✓ Salkantay Trek Reservation:
- To secure your spot on the Salkantay Trek, we require a non-refundable deposit of $220 USD. This deposit guarantees your spot and allows us to purchase your Machu Picchu tickets and train tickets, which must be bought well in advance.
- Our booking platform allows you to pay only the deposit along with any additional options you select, or you can choose to pay the full amount upfront.
- Remaining Balance Payment: If you choose to pay only the deposit, the remaining balance must be paid upon arrival in Cusco, one day before the tour starts. The balance can be paid in soles or dollars in cash, or by card (with a 5% surcharge). You also have the option to pay online via our website, with a 5% fee.
- Full Payment Option: You can choose to pay the full tour cost online when booking.
✓ CANCELLATION POLICY:
Bestreks has the following cancellation policies:
- Due to the strict regulations set by Machu Picchu National Park, once a reservation is made, the permit cannot be canceled, transferred, or modified. If you are unable to arrive on the scheduled date, no refunds will be issued.
- If you cancel 30 or more days in advance, you will lose your deposit but retain the tickets purchased for you.
- If you cancel 2-3 days before your trip, it will be considered a “no-show”, and you will have to pay 100% of the total cost. However, you will still receive your entrance tickets, a guided tour of Machu Picchu, a train ticket, and a bus ticket.
- If you decide to quit the trek for personal reasons after it has started, you will forfeit all included services. Any additional expenses incurred for your return (food, transport, accommodation) will be your responsibility. However, you may rejoin the group in Machu Picchu.
- Uncontrollable Events: Strikes, protests, flight cancellations, weather conditions, or overbooked hotels or flights. In such cases, we will suggest alternative arrangements (if available), but any additional costs will be the traveler’s responsibility.
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✓ Recommendations:
- We strongly recommend that you fully understand all booking and cancellation policies before making your payment to ensure your investment is protected.
✓ Briefing Session:
- All briefings take place the evening before your trip at our main office in Cusco (or at your hotel) at 6:00 p.m. If you cannot attend, please arrange another time via email or phone.
✓ Remaining Balance Payment (in Cusco):
- If you have a pending balance, you must pay it one day before your trek/tour. Failure to do so will result in your reservation not being confirmed.
✓ Pickup Service:
- All pickups occur within Cusco city. We recommend booking a centrally located hotel. Due to traffic conditions, pickup times may vary by 30 to 45 minutes.
✓ Lost Items:
- You are fully responsible for your belongings during the tour.
✓ Weather:
- The weather is unpredictable. The dry season is from April to October, but rain can occur at any time. Be prepared for four seasons in one day. Layering your clothing is essential.
✓ Altitude Sickness & Stomach Issues:
- If arriving from sea level, we recommend arriving two days before your trek to acclimatize.
- Symptoms of altitude sickness include headaches and nausea. Over-the-counter medication such as Aspirin, Diamox, or Soroche Pills can help.
- Drink 3-4 liters of water daily, consume light, easy-to-digest food, and avoid alcohol and smoking.
- Ensure you sleep at least 8 hours and avoid excessive physical activity.
By following these guidelines, you will be well-prepared for an amazing Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu experience!
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.
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