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Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu

Quick Details

  • Duration: 5 days, 4 nights
  • Ages: 12+ years

Embark on a challenging and picturesque expedition along the distinctive Salkantay snowy peaks. Traverse mountains, jungles, valleys, and villages, immersing yourself in the diverse landscapes of the Andes mountain range. Uncover the rich history of the Inca civilization and immerse yourself in local culture. This alternative route to Machu Picchu offers the perfect blend of a classic and adventurous journey through Peru.

Traveler Ages 12+
$613

Discover a Different Side of the Andes

Discover a different side of the great Andes mountain range and get the most amazing views of the mountains by taking this alternative route to Machu Picchu. Ascend to the highest pass at 4,650 meters above sea level for up-close-and-personal views of the massive Salkantay and Humantay mountain peaks in the Cordillera Vilcanota range, which are among the highest in Peru.

This pristine high-altitude trail is the perfect opportunity to get into nature and see abandoned Inca sites. This is the most challenging hike, but you’ll get to walk very close to the glaciers and revel at the wondrous mountain peaks towering overhead as you breathe the fresh mountain air.

Itinerary

Trek Briefings: All travelers are required to visit the Cuzco office for a mandatory briefing on your trek one day prior to departure. At this meeting, you will receive detailed information on the route, a list of what to bring, confirm your pick-up for the morning of the trek, and be able to ask questions.

Please note: You will have a guide during the trek and on the Machu Picchu tour. However, during your bus and train transfers, you will not be accompanied by a guide.

Day 1: Soraypampa Camp, Peru

Embark on a thrilling adventure with a pick-up between 5:00 – 5:15 am, traveling by a tourist-class bus to Mollepata (2,900m). After a brief stop in Mollepata to stretch your legs and buy snacks, continue by car to Challacancha. Here, final preparations and equipment checks are made. Embark on a 3-hour walk to Soraypampa (3,920m), where a lunch with panoramic views of snow-capped mountains awaits. Hike to Laguna de Humantay for additional breathtaking views before returning to camp. The first campsite, located at 3,920m, offers a night surrounded by nature. Rest up and enjoy the serene night.

Day 2: Colcapampa Camp, Peru

Start the day with breakfast around 6:00 am, beginning a 4-hour walk to the trek’s highest pass (4,650m), nestled between the colossal Salkantay (6,267m) and Humantay (5,900m) mountains. Optionally, rent a horse for the ascent. After a 2-hour downhill hike, enjoy lunch at Huayracpampa, followed by a 3-hour trek to Challhuay or Colcapampa as you enter the high jungle region at 2,900 meters.

Day 3: Santa Teresa Town, Peru

Commence trekking at 6:30 am, navigating through the upper jungle, crossing the Santa Teresa River and various brooks. Pass through valleys with views of waterfalls, tropical fruits, and plants. Lunch at La Playa (2,200m), followed by a car ride to Santa Teresa town (1,700 meters), your camp for the night. After a rest, consider a visit to the hot springs (extra cost) for a rejuvenating experience.

Day 4: Aguas Calientes, Peru

Following an 8:00 am breakfast, trek from Santa Teresa (1,700m) along a relaxed path for 3 hours to reach the hydroelectric station (1,880m). Enjoy a box lunch before embarking on a 3-hour slight uphill walk to Aguas Calientes (2,010m). Relax, recharge, and prepare for the visit to Machu Picchu. Dinner at a local traditional restaurant. Optional bus and train transfers are available at an extra cost.

Day 5: Machu Picchu, Peru

Catch one of the first buses (05:30 am) to Machu Picchu for a morning tour, followed by free exploration. Optional climb to Huayna Picchu Peak is available (must be booked in advance at an extra cost). Return by train to Ollantaytambo and bus to Cuzco, with a drop-off at Plaza San Francisco. Arrival in Cuzco around 18:30 hrs.

Included:

  • Activities: Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu
  • Transport: Bus and train transfers, Cuzco Accommodation Pick-Up, All transfers as per itinerary, Bus Ollantaytambo to Cuzco
  • Accommodation: Camping and 3-star hotel
  • Meals: 4B / 4L / 4D / 3 snacks with typical menus
  • Guides: Professional bilingual guide on trek Machu Picchu tour
  • Extras: Machu Picchu Entrance Fee, Horseman and mules, Foam Sleeping Mat, Emergency oxygen bottle, Small group experience; Max 15, Avg 4, Pre-departure briefing

Not Included:

  • Airport Pick-Up/Drop-Off (please make your own way)
  • Sleeping bag
  • Day 1 Breakfast, Day 5 Lunch & Dinner
  • Bottled Water
  • Guide for bus and train transfers (these portions are on your own)

Typical Meals on the Trek

On all of our treks to Machu Picchu, we search for great cooks who provide you with the best tasting meals on the mountain, with specialty menus and the freshest local ingredients available. Here is an idea of what you will be eating during your trek. A vegetarian option is available upon request (please advise at least two days in advance).

  • Breakfast: Hot porridge, quinoa or oats, fried eggs, omelet or pancakes with fresh bread, fried bananas, and boiled water for hot tea, coca tea, coffee, chocolate, and milk
  • Lunch & Dinner:
    • First Course: Quinoa, corn, noodle, asparagus, mushroom or vegetable soup, stuffed avocado or potatoes
    • Second Course: Chicken breast, beef stew, quinoa, fried rice, hamburgers, fried chicken, spaghetti bolognese, typical dishes: aji de gallina (chili pepper chicken), escabeche de pollo (marinated chicken) or ajiaco de olluco (spicy potato stew)
  • Desserts: Fried plantains, chocolate pudding, chocolate or vanilla cake, and boiled water for hot tea, coca tea, coffee, chocolate, and milk
  • Snacks: Boiled water for hot tea, coca tea, coffee, chocolate, and milk along with popcorn, cookies, crackers

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