5-Day Salkantay Trek Tour to Machu Picchu

Question 1

Day 1: Visit of Humantay Lake

Answer

Meals included: Breakfast, lunch and dinner

Trekking time & distance: Approx. 6.5 hours & 6.2 miles (10 km)

Level of difficulty: Moderate

Lodging: Sky dome (12,795 ft / 3900 m)

Set your alarm for 4:00 a.m. when we pick you up from your accommodation in Cusco. We leave Mollepata after a delicious breakfast and proceed to the starting place of the trek. To go to Sky Camps in Soraypampa, we must hike for 3.5 hours 5 mi (8 km) over spectacular mountain views.

After lunch in front of the breathtaking Salkantay peak, we refuel for the long climb to Humantay Lake. The 1.25 mi (2 km) of ascent displays the magnificence of nature. Don’t worry; a horse may be rented for S/70 ($19) if that’s what you prefer.

Observe the crystal-clear lake and the way the sky is reflected on its mirror-like surface. Our guide will help to capture this unique moment with your phone and take some unforgettable pictures of you and your partner. At the end of the day, enjoy a delicious dinner and an amazing stargazing experience in your igloo.

Question 2

Day 2: Crossing the Salkantay Pass (4,650 m/15,255 ft.)

Answer

Meals included: breakfast, lunch & dinner

Trekking time & distance: Approx. 10.5 hours & 13.7 miles (22 km)

Level of difficulty: Challenging

Lodging: Andean Huts (2900 m / 9,500 ft)

Your day begins at 5:30 am with a cup of energizing coca tea and a freshly prepared breakfast. Afterwards it’s time for the rocky and challenging Salkantay Pass. But it’s worth the effort, because after reaching the top, you’ll be awaited by Salkantay Mountain’s snow-covered magnificence and picturesque background.

Conquer the difficult terrain under the guidance of an experienced guide while soaking in the beautiful views. As this part is quite demanding, your guide will make sure everyone follows the pace and make enough breaks if necessary.

Having passed the Salkantay pass, we will descend a bit further to have lunch. Watch how the entire flora and fauna changes while hiking 2.5 hours to the next campsite in Chaullay.

Question 3

Day 3: Welcome to the Jungle

Answer

Meals included: breakfast, lunch and dinner.

Trekking time & distance : Approx. 6.5 hours & 11.2 miles (18 km)

Level of difficulty: Easy

Lodging: Jungle domes (2000 m / 6,560 ft)

Start early on an adventure to the town La Playa. Explore waterfalls, coffee and fruit farms, as well as rivers and orchids. The atmosphere changes as we enter the subtropical jungle, and the energy increases.

We enjoy a typical lunch in La Playa before continuing our adventure. The final mile takes you to the Lucmabamba campground.

Relax under jungle domes or seek out Cocalmayo’s hot springs’ for a well-deserved bath.

Question 4

Day 4: Inca Trail

Answer

Meals included: Breakfast and lunch

Trekking time & distance: 9 hours & 15.5 miles (25 km)

Level of difficulty: Moderate to Challenging

Lodging: Hotel accommodation (Aguas Calientes, 2040 m / 6,700 ft)

After breakfast, embark on the legendary Inca Trail. A 2-hour trek takes us to Llactapata, from where you can already have a glimpse of the magical Machu Picchu ruins.

After another two hours of descent, we stop for lunch close to the hydroelectric station. An easy 3-hour hike takes us to Aguas Calientes, where a comfortable hotel is waiting for you to spend the night. You are almost there!

Question 5

Day 5: Machu Picchu

Answer

By starting the day early, you can reach Machu Picchu before the crowds arrive. Following a guided tour, you might like to climb Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain, both offer 3-hour round-trip hikes with amazing views. Make sure to get your tickets in advance.

At the end, you’ll take the train from Aguas Calientes and return to Ollantaytambo from where our private driver will bring you safely back to Cusco.

Question 6

What is the highest point during the tour?

Answer

The highest point is the crossing of the Salkantay pass on the second day at 4650 m (15,255 ft.).

Question 7

Is the trek difficult and do I need any physical preparation?

Answer

Especially the first two days are quite demanding and it is recommended to be in good shape to participate while having fun and not running any risks. The remaining days are less strenuous but it is important to have a certain level of endurance. It definitely is not recommended for beginners or not active people with no endurance at all.

Question 8

Do the domes have heating?

Answer

There is no heating in the domes the first night, they are comfortable and you will receive blankets. It’s recommended to bring warm underwear, a hat and a scarf.

Question 9

Is there any possibility to take showers?

Answer

On the second day you have the chance to take a shower for an extra payment to the locals offering this service. As not everyone wants to shower, this service is not included and we still aim to support the locals. Further, you have the chance to take a shower in Aguas Calientes on the 4th day.

Question 10

How many days do I need to be acclimated before starting the trek?

Answer

You should have at least 48 hours or more in Cusco. It’s recommended to enjoy these days in the city of Cusco and in the Sacred Valley.

5-Day Salkantay Trek Tour to Machu Picchu

5-Day Salkantay Trek Tour to Machu Picchu

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FAQ's

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