Salkantay Trek To Machu Picchu 5 Days And 4 Nights
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5d
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About this experience
This trek runs beneath the magnificent Salkantay mountain (20,569ft), one of the highest and most stunning in the Andes. The Salkantay Trek was recently named on the National Geographic Ultimate Adventure bucket list – defined as “The 20 most extreme, hair-raising, legendary adventures on the planet.” It is a trek open to everybody, and the most popular alternative to the Inca Trail trek.
This offers 4 days of trekking through various landscapes including highlands, cloud forest, rain forest and dry mountain. Throughout the trek you have amazing views of Apu Salkantay, Pumasillo Mountain and Humantay Mountain, three of the most stunning peaks of the Vilcabamba Mountain range.
Our trek includes the services of lodging in a very nice hotel on the fourth night of the trek, a very unique coffee plantation tour in the afternoon of day 3, and dinner at great local restaurant in Aguas Calientes.
Available options
Salkantay Trek To Machu Picchu 5 Days And 4 Nights
Pickup included
What's included
Dining tent with tables and chairs
Lunch
Dinner
Four-person tent for each two persons
Breakfast
Toilet tent with portable toilet
Bilingual English speaking tour guide
Expedition train from Aguas Calientes to either Ollantaytambo or to Poroy
Mattress and pillow
Hot water for washing.
Pick up from your hotel and transportation to Soraypampa on day 1
Pre-Departure Briefing at your hotel 1 or 2 days before your trek.
Emergency oxygen bottle and medical kit.
Wranglers and horses to carry all the equipment (food, tents, chairs, table, etc)
Private transport from Ollantaytambo to Cusco
Daily morning boiled and cold water to fill the water bottles.
Emergency horse in case we need it
Coffee plantation tour in the afternoon of day 3
Kitchen tent
Horse to carry 8 kg of your personal belongings
Expert chef and assistant chef
Duffle bag to pack your personal belongings
Lodging in Aguas Calientes on night 4 of the trek (double occupancy)
What's not included
Sleeping bag
Day 5 lunch in Aguas Calientes
Tips for the crew (muleteers, chef and guide)
Hiking poles
Round trip bus ticket to Machu Picchu
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
ES
Reviews breakdown
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Important information
Service animals allowed
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Not recommended for pregnant travelers
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
What to bring:
Original passport (if you have acquired a new one after you made your booking, bring both)
Down or synthetic feather sleeping bag (can be rented from us)
Clothes (trekking boots, warm fleece jacket, a few t-shirts, socks, sun hat, warm underwear, light long pants, gloves, rain jacket)
Toiletries (toilet paper, wet wipes, personal towel)
Sunscreen SPF 35+ recommended
Head lamp
Sunglasses
Camera with spare batteries (batteries run down faster at high altitudes)
Binoculars
Book to read (you will have some spare time at every camp to read your favorite book)
Trekking poles (recommended especially for the steep descents, can be rented from us)
Insect repellent
About Cusco
Cusco, the historic capital of the Inca Empire, is a captivating blend of Indigenous and colonial influences. Known for its well-preserved archaeological sites, vibrant culture, and stunning Andean landscapes, it's a gateway to Machu Picchu and the Sacred Valley. The city's rich history, combined with its lively arts scene and delicious cuisine, makes it a must-visit destination in South America.
Top Attractions
Sacred Valley
The Sacred Valley is a stunning region filled with Inca ruins, traditional villages, and breathtaking landscapes. It's a must-visit for history and nature lovers.
Historical/Nature
Full day
PEN 10-50 (USD 2.50-12.50) depending on the site
Machu Picchu
Machu Picchu is the iconic Inca citadel and one of the most famous archaeological sites in the world. Its breathtaking views and rich history make it a must-see.
Historical/Adventure
Full day or overnight
PEN 152 (USD 38) for entrance, train tickets vary
Qorikancha
Qorikancha, or the Temple of the Sun, was the most important temple in the Inca Empire. It's a fascinating blend of Inca and colonial architecture.
Historical/Religious
1-2 hours
PEN 10 (USD 2.50)
Sacsayhuaman
Sacsayhuaman is a massive Inca fortress with impressive stone walls and panoramic views of Cusco. It's a testament to Inca engineering and military might.
Historical
1-2 hours
PEN 10 (USD 2.50)
San Pedro Market
San Pedro Market is a bustling market offering a variety of fresh produce, local crafts, and traditional foods. It's a great place to experience local life.
Cultural/Food
1-2 hours
Free to enter, prices vary for purchases
Must-Try Local Dishes
Cuy al Horno
Roasted guinea pig, a traditional Andean dish.
Main Course
Not vegetarian
Lomo Saltado
Stir-fried beef with onions, tomatoes, and fries.
Main Course
Can be made vegetarian
Aji de Gallina
Shredded chicken in a creamy, spicy sauce.
Main Course
Not vegetarian
Sopa de Quinoa
Quinoa soup, a nutritious and traditional dish.
Soup
Can be made vegetarian
Popular Activities
Hiking
Trekking
Mountain biking
Whitewater rafting
Visiting spas
Exploring parks
Enjoying local cafes
Visiting museums
Best Time to Visit
May to September
This is the dry season, offering the best weather for exploring the city and its archaeological sites. The skies are clear, and temperatures are mild.
5°C to 20°C (41°F to 68°F)
41°F to 68°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Spanish
- Widely spoken: Quechua, English (in tourist areas)
- English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas, limited elsewhere
Currency
Peruvian Sol (PEN)
Time Zone
GMT-5
Electricity
220VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe with common-sense precautions
Cusco is generally safe for tourists, but petty crime can occur, especially in crowded areas. Be cautious with your belongings and avoid walking alone at night in poorly lit areas.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep valuables secure
- • Use reputable tour operators
- • Be cautious with street food
Getting there
By air
- Alejandro Velasco Astete International Airport • 5 km (3 miles) from city center
By train
San Pedro Station
By bus
Cusco Bus Terminal
Getting around
Public transport
Shared taxis (colectivos) are a common and affordable way to get around Cusco. They follow specific routes and can be flagged down.
Taxis
Available • Apps: InDriver, Easy Taxi
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Historic Center
San Blas
San Cristobal
Day trips
Pisac
35 km (22 miles) from Cusco • Full day
Pisac is a charming town known for its vibrant market and impressive Inca ruins. It's a great day trip from Cusco.
Ollantaytambo
60 km (37 miles) from Cusco • Full day or overnight
Ollantaytambo is a picturesque town with well-preserved Inca ruins and a gateway to Machu Picchu. It's a must-visit for history and adventure lovers.
Tipon
25 km (16 miles) from Cusco • Half day
Tipon is a beautiful archaeological site with well-preserved Inca terraces and water channels. It's a peaceful and less crowded alternative to other Inca sites.
Festivals
Inti Raymi • June 24
Cusco Festival of Music and Dance • August
Pro tips
- Acclimatize to the altitude before engaging in strenuous activities
- Dress in layers to accommodate changing temperatures
- Learn a few basic phrases in Spanish or Quechua to enhance your experience
- Visit the San Pedro Market early in the morning for the best selection and prices
- Book tickets and train tickets in advance for Machu Picchu and other popular attractions
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
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