Overview
Salkantay trek – Overview
- First day: Cusco – Mollepata – Soraypampa
- Second day: Soyrococha – Salkantay Pass – Qollpapampa
- Third day: Qollpapampa -Playa – Lucmabamba
- Fourth day: Lucmabamba – LLactapata-Hidroelectrica – Aguas Calientes:
- Fifth day: Aguas Calientes – Machupicchu – Cusco:
Useful Information about this trek to mt Salkantay mountain
- Starting Altitude: 3800 m / 12,467 ft
- Highest altitude: 4650 m/ 15,252 ft
- Walking Distance: 54 km / 33.55 miles
- Difficulty: Challenging.
Itinerary
Salkantay Trip Itinerary
Day 1: Cusco – Mollepata – Soraypampa
At 4:30 a.m. you will be picked up by private transport at your hotel in Cusco. Then we will enjoy a 4 hour drive through the gorgeous mountains till we reach the trailhead at Soraypampa (3,800m/12,467ft). Before we begin the Salkantay trail, we will get to know one another and share a delicious breakfast prepared by our professional trekking chef. Soraypampa is an area surrounded by breathtaking views, with Mount Turkaway (5,900m/19,357ft) and Salkantay mt. (6,271m/20,575ft) in the distance.
After breakfast, you are introduced to your trekking crew and then we embark on our Salkantay trail Peru. We begin with a hike up the Turkaway mountain, to view the high altitude lake Humantay. It actually should be called Turquoise lake because the waters are so vibrantly turquoise. Then, we return back down to the beginning of the trailhead and hike to our lunch spot at Salkantaypampa. Here we have lunch and relax, soaking in our gorgeous surroundings.
After lunch, we have approximately 2 more hours of a gentle climb until reaching our campsite at Soyrococha. We will have views of Mount Humantay and enjoy our first night with a delicious dinner amidst the Andean mountains.
- Meals: Breakfast / Lunch / Afternoon Snacks / Dinner
- Accommodations: Camping
- Maximum Altitude: 4,400 m /14,332 ft
- Minimum Altitude: 3,800 m/ 2,467 ft
- Distance Covered: 10 km /6 miles
- Approximate walking time: 4 – 5 hours
- Difficulty: Moderate
Day 2: Soyrococha – Salkantay Pass – Qollpapampa
After an early breakfast, we continue for about 1 hour until we reach Salkantay Pass (4,650m/15,252ft). While we are here we will break and enjoy the spectacular views of the snow capped mountains of Salkantay Cusco (6,271m), Humantay and Huayanay. Along our trail and from our vantage point at the pass we will see various rivers and small lakes.
As we enter the pass, you will have an opportunity to leave an offering of coca leaves or a rock that you have picked up along the way, to give thanks to the Apu Salkantay (Mountain God). During the time of the Incas, those who were walking amongst the trails in the Apus would leave offerings such as clothes, jewels, or simply a rock as an act of reciprocity.
We then diverge from our path for about 30 minutes to reach the exquisite turquoise Salkantay Lake. We will take ample time to explore and take photos of this breathtaking lake. Then it is downhill, to our lunch spot at Rayanniyoc, a quaint mountain village.
After lunch, we have 3 more hours downhill through cloud forest and lush rainforest until we reach our campsite for the the night at Collpapampa (2,877m). We will relax and soak in our gorgeous surroundings and then enjoy a warm dinner prepared by our trekking chef.
- Meals: Breakfast / Lunch / Afternoon Snacks / Dinner
- Accommodations: Camping
- Maximum Altitude: 4,650 m / 15,252 ft
- Minimum Altitude: 3,100 m / 10,170 ft
- Distance Covered: 16 km / 9.9 miles
- Approximate walking time: 8-9 hours
- Difficulty: Challenging
Day 3: Qollpapampa – Playa – Lucmabamba
We will wake up early with a warm cup of tea and a lovely breakfast. Then we will continue our trip venturing 5 hours through the rainforest. Throughout our hike today you will experience a myriad of flora and fauna including orchids, birds, coffee tree, and cacao and fruit plantations.
Today we hike approximately 5 to 6 hours to our lunch place and campsite for the night at Lucmabamba (2,050 m/6,725 ft.).
At Lucmabamba we will enjoy a fascinating coffee tour guided by the local coffee farmers. We will learn about every stage of coffee production: processing, seed germination, farming, harvesting, and roasting. This tour is in depth, as we explore the environmental, social, and economic contexts as well.
At the end of the tour, you will participate in a coffee tasting session to discover the authentic aroma and essence of Peruvian coffee and gain an appreciation for the intricate process that brings flavor and love into each bean.
After our experience, we enjoy a lovely dinner and get rest in preparation for our adventure on the next day!
- Meals: Breakfast / Lunch / Afternoon Snacks / Dinner
- Accommodations: Camping
- Maximum Altitude: 2,850 m / 9,350 ft.
- Minimum Altitude: 2,050 m / 6,725 ft.
- Distance Covered: 14 km / 8 miles
- Approximate walking time: 5-6 hours
- Difficulty: Moderate
Day 4: Lucmabamba – LLactapata – Hidroelectrica – Aguas Calientes
We wake up early with a hot coca tea and breakfast,and then we continue our Salkantay trail a 4 hour ascent through the Andean cloud forest to the Puncuyoc Pass. Not to worry, this uphill journey is incredibly beautiful making the climb worth every step. Then, we arrive at Llactapata which is located at 2,700 meters. It is an Incan site located just in front of the citadel of Machu Picchu. You will have incredible panoramic views of the lost city, Huayna Picchu, and the deep and vast Aobamba canyon.
At Llactapata, we will enjoy a guided tour, learning of the fascinating history this site holds. After, we start hiking downhill for 2 hours to Hidroelectrica plant. We will have our last lunch before a comfortable and scenic 45 minute train ride that will bring us to Aguas Calientes (2,040 m/ 6,692 ft.).
Once we arrive at Aguas Caliente, we will check you into your comfortable hotel accommodations, where you can enjoy a hot shower! Then you have the rest of the day to explore the lovely town of Aguas Calientes and either visit the artisan markets or relax in the natural hot springs. In the evening we will share dinner together at a wonderful restaurant.
- Meals: Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner
- Accommodations: Hotel
- Maximum Altitude: 3,100 m / 10,170 ft
- Minimum Altitude: 2,040 m / 6,692 ft.
- Distance Covered: 14 km / 8 miles
- Approximate walking time: 5-6 hours
- Difficulty: Moderate
Day 5: Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu – Cusco
Today we wake up early for the big day at the ancient citadel. We will first have breakfast at the hotel and then board the first bus. The bus will lead us up the beautiful mountain through cloud forest until reaching Machu Picchu. We will arrive just in time to see the sun come up over the mountains, a perfect photo opportunity.
Upon our arrival, we will enjoy a 2 hour guided tour from our professional guides. We will visit all of the significant sites, including temples, terraces, ceremonial centers, and fountains. On this extensive tour, you will learn in-depth about the history and cultural of the Inca. You will also learn of the incredible ingenuity of the Inca and how they built this stone city thousands of years ago.
After the tour, you will have time to explore on your own, revisiting any sites or finding new ones. Also, if you have elected you can climb Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu mountain. These two alternate hikes take you through Inca built paths and stairs to alternate and breathtaking vantage points of the area.
In the afternoon, we will make our way back down to Aguas Caliente by bus and then board the train. This comfortable train ride is an experience in itself, bringing you from jungle through the mountains into the Sacred Valley of the Incas. We will arrive in Ollantaytambo where a representative will be awaiting your arrival in private transport and you will return to your hotel in cusco.
- Meals: Breakfast
- Maximum Altitude: 2,440 m / 8,052 ft
- Minimum Altitude: 2,040 m / 6,691 ft
- Difficulty: Easy
Inclusions
Classic Salkantay trek Cusco Includes:
- Professional English Speaking tour guide
- Assistant Tour Guide for groups of 9+
- Pre trek briefing 1 or 2 days before your Salkantay trail
- Transfer upon arrival from airport or bus station in Cusco to your Hotel
- Professional Chef
- Breakfast on Day 1
- Mules to carry cooking and camping equipment and 7kg of your personal items.
- Pick-up from your hotel
- Transportation by bus to Mollepata/Soraypampa
- Return transportation by train and bus to Cusco
- Water (excluding the first 4 hours of the trek when you need to bring your own)
- 5 Breakfasts, 4 Lunches, 4 Afternoon Snacks and 4 Dinners. If you have a dietary such as vegetarian food please let us know,and request with no cost at all.
- Dining tent with tables and chairs
- a 4-men tent for every 2 trekkers
- Hotel on Day 4
- Sleeping mattress
- Oxygen bottle
- First aid kit
- Entrance to Machu Picchu
- Train ticket from Hidroelectrica to Aguas Calientes
- Bus Tickets from Aguas Calientes to Machupijchu round trip
Salkantay trail Does Not Include:
- Lunch and Dinner on Day 5
- Sleeping Bag (Can be hired from us)
- Entrance to Huayna Picchu Mountain-US$70
- Tips for the crew
- Travel Insurance – you are strongly recommended to take out travel insurance for the duration of your trip
What you need to take for Salkantay trek Peru.
- Original Passport
- Valid STUDENT CARD (if you are a student and want to qualify for the discount)
- Walking boots
- Waterproof jacket / rain poncho
- Warm jacket
- Hat and gloves
- T-shirts
- Comfortable Trousers
- Sun hat
- Sun cream
- Insect repellant
- Toiletries and hand sanitiser
- Personal medication
- Camera and film
- Torch with spare batteries
- Towel
- Swim suit
Price
Salkantay trek Prices:
Group Service:
- US$680 per person
Private Service:
- US$750 per person
Discounts for Salkantay trail:
- Student Discount: US$20 (Requires Valid STUDENT CARD to qualify)
- Under 15 years Discount: US$30 Please send us a copy of your passport at the time of booking.
Optional Extras for this Salkantay trek Peru:
- Hiking Poles US$15
- Sleeping Bag US$25
- Single tent Supplement US$25
- Additional Night in Aguas Calientes US$90
- Vistadome train Upgrade US$60
- Huayna Picchu Mountain US$70
- Machu Picchu Mountain US$70
FAQs
Salkantay trek vs Inca trail
The Classic Inca Trail is iconic thanks to its history as part of the Royal Road system that connected the Inca Empire. This history is shown through various remains (especially Inca paving) along parts of the trail. Thanks to this, combined with the natural setting and the stunning finish at Machu Picchu, it is considered the number one trek in South America. For those who don’t have 4 days free to complete the 4 day Inca trail to Machu Picchu, there’s also a truncated 2-day version which skips the grueling Dead Women’s Pass but includes the highlights of Wiñay Wayna and the Inti Punku Sun Gate.
Salkantay trek to Machu Picchu is the most popular. Although it’s tougher than the traditional inca trail, it famously showcases the best scenery of all the treks to Machu Picchu. Looping around glacial Mt Salkantay on the route to Machu Picchu, it takes 5 days including the final day at the mysterious citadel, although it can be done in 4 days for those with a tight schedule and good fitness. Unlike the Inca Trail, pack mules are used rather than porters for carrying camping and cooking equipment.
How long is the Salkantay Trek?
The Salkantay trek distance is 54 km / 33.55 miles long. Beginning at the village of Soraypampa, the trail is filled with lush jungle, Andean peaks, and rich forests. Showcasing one of the most beautiful mountains in the Andes, the Salkantay trail does not disappoint.
How difficult is the Salkantay to Machu Picchu?
We rate the 5 day trek as moderate to moderate plus. The second day includes a climb up to the Salkantay Pass, reaching an altitude of 4,650 m / 15,252 ft That is 1 hour challenging trekking. The Salkantay Pass is 400 m higher than the infamous Dead Woman’s pass on the Inca Trail. Believe us, 400 m feels like a lot when you are hiking upwards! However, the Salkantay trail’s terrain may be easier for some compared to the Inca Trail, whose steep stone steps are very hard on the knees.
Days 3 and 4 of your Salkantay trekking itinerary are much easier, though you still need to hike substantial distances.
Remember all treks in the Cusco region are challenging for most people due to the high altitude and steep mountains.
How can I prepare for the trek and prevent altitude sickness?
The best way to prepare yourself for the Salkantay altitude is very easy: spend time at a high-altitude location such as Cusco. Most trek agencies around Cusco say that 2 days is enough; we say that if you could spend more time it is better for you. In an ideal world, 3-4 days would give your body an excellent chance to acclimatize.
In addition, being kind to your body – eating healthy food and staying away from alcohol – helps your body deal with the extra pressures that altitude creates.
When is the best time to do the hike?
Trek conditions vary according to the season. The best months to do the Salkantay are the dry winter months from April to September. During this time, there is little rain, so the trail can be dusty. Night-time temperatures also can be very low, even reaching below freezing!
December through March is the wet season in Peru and trekking the Salkantay route is not recommended for safety reasons, as the trail can be slippery and muddy. It is also possible for the 4,650 m / 15,252 ft Salkantay Pass to be snowed under during the rainy season.
What are the average hours of trekking per day?
The average daily walking time is about 7 – 10 hours per day, with day 2 being the longest and toughest day of all.
What kind of accommodation does Mountain Gods Peru provide?
The 5 day Salkantay trail includes 3 nights of camping accommodation and 1 night at a comfortable 3+ star Hotel at Aguas Calientes town. This is a great option to get to know some local people, learn about coffee growing and enjoy the night in their place.
On the trail, you are treated to first-class service from the Mountain Gods Peru field team. We use comfortable and spacious tents on our treks, all dutifully set up by our team of hardworking staff.
What kind of food do you have along the salkantay trail?
You will be accompanied by a personal chef who prepares first-class gourmet meals on the trail. Our chefs receive annual training in order to offer you delicious culinary creations on the treks! This is not basic trail food, but fully catered for trekking.
We have many vegetarians,gluten free and vegan travellers and our cooks have a variety of great options for them to enjoy their meals. We can cater for all other types of dietary requests with adequate preparation.
What Salkantay trekking permits are required?
No permits are required for the Salkantay trail, however, you do require an entry ticket to visit Machu Picchu. This entry ticket is included in the price of your trek. If you wish to climb Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain, this requires an extra permit not included in the price.
Permits can sell out in advance, so you are best to tell us at the time of booking that you would like to hike Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain. Huayna Picchu is the conical shaped mountain that appears in all the classic pictures of Machu Picchu.
What do you carry on your Salkantay to Machu Picchu?
All you need to carry with you is a light day pack. In your day pack, you should carry things such as your water bottle, some extra layers in case it gets cold, camera, sun hat, beanie, sunscreen, toilet paper, hand sanitizer, rain gear, rain poncho, gloves, Passport, snacks, sunglasses and insect repellent.
Water is the most important on the trek. You should start the day with 2L; you will have a chance to refill every day after breakfast.
The rest of your belongings – up to 7kg (14 pounds) – are carried in a duffel bag that we provide, by mules. All camping equipment needed on the trek is also carried by mules.
What is the Salkantay Trek? What makes it so special?
This trail is a stunning 54 km/33,55 miles trail that runs through the Vilcabamba Mountain Range in the Andes that leads trekkers towards Machu Picchu, the Lost City of the Incas. The route, a lesser known Incan Trail, was once used as an Incan Coca and Potato trade passage. The views and vistas on the Salkantay trek are unparalleled, and was named among the 25 best treks in the world, by National Geographic Adventure. We couldn’t agree more!
How should I train for this amazing experience?
The trek is a physical and mental undertaking, so being in good shape will definitely enhance your experience! General aerobic fitness will allow the body to function efficiently with less oxygen and withstand the stress of consecutive days of hiking and camping. Additionally, having strong, conditioned legs will help make it easier to walk up and downhill all day. One of the best things you can do to train is walk, after all, that’s what you will be doing on the mountain! Ideally, try to train a few days a week walking and/or jogging on inclines and declines if you can to simulate the ups and downs of the Salkantay trail.
Packing List
Additional
ADDED VALUES :
- Inflatable Mattress (Included)
- Pillow (Included)
- Blanket (Included)
- Extra 7 kg of personal items (Included). All of our treks include porters, who are responsible for carrying and setting up all equipment. They will also carry your personal duffel, which you will receive at your briefing the night before your tour. This duffel can not exceed 7 kg/14 lbs, and must include your sleeping bag and an air mattress.
