Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu – Salkantay Trail – Itinerary
Day 1: Cusco – Mollepata – Soraypampa
At 04:00 AM, we will be picking you up from your hotel in Cusco and embark on a two and a half hours drive to a small Andean town called Mollepata. Our private transport is designed with state of the art facilities to offer you comfort and safety.
At Mollepata, we will be having a brief stop so you can buy breakfast if desired. Here we will be meeting our porters and cook who will be accompanying us for the next three days. We will then drive to Marko Q’asa. This is the starting point of our Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu.
Salkantay Trek Peru:
After a short introduction and safety briefing, we will check all our equipment and begin the trek. Following a well-established trail, we will gradually make our way up the hill. We will be covering a distance of 16 km (9.9 miles).
Along the trail, you will be immersed in the stunning views of snow-capped Andean peaks and glaciers. A part of the trail will be along the restored Inca water channel. It is the main supply of water to local farms in the vicinity.
Just before reaching our campsite in Soraypamapa (3,800m/12,084ft.), you will get a closer view of the Salkantay Peak, also known as the Savage mountain looming high above us.
Our campsite is snuggled between Salkantay and Humantay peak. The temperature here often drops below zero. So, make sure to carry your thermal wear.
After lunch, you can hike up to Humantay Lake (4200m/13780ft.). It is 3 km (1.86 miles) from the campsite and can easily be hiked back and forth in three hours. Lake Humantay is a hidden gem in the Peruvian Andes.
Seldom there are places like this highland turquoise lake that can be visited so easily.
As you would return to the campsite, our crew will be serving you a delicious Andean meal for dinner. You can then enjoy the serene views of the clear dark Andean sky filled with constellations of stars before retiring into your tent.
- Duration of hike: 6-7 hours
- Distance: 16 kilometres (9.9 miles)
- Level of difficulty: Moderately Challenging
Day 2: Soraypampa – Salkantay Pass – Chaullay – Colpapampa
You will be waking up to the first rays of the morning sun shimmering over the Andean peaks. Our crew will be serving you a cup of freshly brewed Peruvian coffee or tea followed by breakfast.
We will then start hiking to the highest point of the trek, Salkantay Pass at 4,630m/15,190 ft above sea level. We will be covering a distance of 7 km/4.34 miles in 3.5 hours.
It is somewhat challenging to hike up the “trail of the 7 snakes”. It gets its name after its winding path.
From the summit, you will get a fantastic view of the valley snuggled under the mighty Salkantay peak (6271m/20,574ft). It is the second-highest peak in the region, after Ausangate. To locals, this is a sacred entity.
Once you have had your fill of this amazing view, we will start hiking down the hill to our lunch camp in Huayracmachay(3850m/12631ft). This is the beginning of the warm lush cloud forest.
After lunch, we will be hiking through a section of the Amazon cloud forest. It is a 9km/5.59 miles stretch. On this section of the Salkantay Trail, you will witness a drastic change in the topography as we will be entering the Amazon from the Andes.
Our tour guide will be explaining about different native plants and fruits distinct to the region. After an arduous hike and achieving the highest point of the Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu, we will be reaching our campsite in a small Andean village, Colpapampa at 2900m/9514ft.
Our crew will be serving a delicious and nutritious meal for dinner before calling it a day.
- Duration of hike: 8-9 hours
- Distance: 21 kilometres (13 miles)
- Level of difficulty: Challenging
Day 3: Colpapampa – La Playa – Lucmabamba
At 0600 am, our crew will be waking you up. We will then serve a rich Andean breakfast. This will be an easier day of the Salkantay Trekking experience as we will be hiking through the lowland region.
Our first destination will be La Playa. We will be hiking through the Santa Teresa Valley. It will be delightful to see some waterfalls, rivers, and different plantations – Avocado, coffee, and Banana, to name a few. Often hikers have spotted the Peruvian National Bird – Andean Cock of the Rock here.
We will be stopping for a delicious Andean lunch amidst verdant green mountains and native plants. After lunch, we will be hiking for an hour to our campsite in Lucmabamba (2,000m/6,562ft).
You will have the afternoon to yourself to explore the region. Our guide will be delighted to show you around and you can visit some coffee, and cocoa farms and savour a cup of freshly brewed java.
Lucmabmba is home to the main coffee producers in Peru. They export a vast quantity to North America, Europe and Asia.
After the tour, you will be returning to the campsite where we will be serving a typical meal for dinner. You will then doe off to the sounds of chirping birds amidst the Peruvian Amazon Cloud Forest.
- Duration of hike: 5-6 hours
- Distance: 17 kilometres (10.5 miles)
- Level of difficulty: Easy
Day 4: Lucmabamba – Llactapata – Hidro Electrica – Aguas Calientes
After relishing a nutritious breakfast, we will set out on the last section of the our Salkantay trek via Llaqtapata . We will be hiking on the renowned Inca Trail.
We will begin with two hours uphill hike to the Inca archaeological site in Llactapata. It nestles at 2,700 metres/ 8,858 ft above sea level. This is the first archaeological site you will be visiting on Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu.
Our tour guide will be giving you a detailed tour of the complex. You will also get to see Machu Picchu and Huayna Picchu at a distance from here.
We will then hike down the hill for another two hours with a view of the lost Inca city at a distance. For lunch, we will be stopping at our campsite in Aobamba.
After lunch, we will be bidding goodbye to our porters and Chef. We will then continue to Hidro Electrica. This is the lowest point of the Salkantay Trek at 1,800m/5,906 ft.
You will have two options to reach Aguas Calientes from here:
- Take a 40 minutes train which costs an additional 34 USD
- Experience the historic hike retracing the footsteps of the renowned American Professor, Hiram Bingham who rediscovered Machu Picchu. It takes three hours to reach Aguas Calientes.
Once in Aguas Calientes town, we will be accommodating you in an ensuite hotel room for the night. The town gets its name after the natural hot springs that are just minutes away from the main square.
- Duration of hike: 5-6 hours
- Distance: 13 kilometres (8 miles)
- Level of difficulty: Easy
Day 5: Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu – Cusco
After breakfast in your hotel, we will be taking the 25 minutes bus ride up the hill to visit Machu Picchu. As you will be entering the citadel, you will witness the golden rays of the morning sun shimmering on the walls of the Inca Citadel.
Our tour guide will be giving you a two hours tour of the citadel. You will be visiting the main soiree, remains of the ceremonial site and royal quarters and more. After the tour, you will have some free time to explore the citadel on your own. If you have booked to climb Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu mountain, our tour guide will be directing you to the respective trailhead.
Alternatively, you can hike to the sungate. This is the point through which those hiking the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu enter the citadel.
Once you have had your fill of the world wonder, we will be taking the bus back to Aguas Calientes town.
Later in the evening, you will be boarding the tourist train to Ollantaytambo. It takes two hours to get there. Our representative will be picking you up from Ollantaytambo train station and will transfer you back to your hotel in Cusco. We will be reaching Cusco by 09:00 PM.
Salkantay Trekking Prices
We warmly welcome you to allow us to take part in creating some of your most memorable experiences to date on the Salkantay Trail. Our treks can depart on any day of the week during any month of the year.
Group Service Price: $620 USD Per Person
A group service means that other hikers are able to join you. Your group will have varying hiking and fitness abilities. Our Professional Tour Guides are experts on how to keep the group moving and happy no matter how fast you go.
Private Tour Service is also available and is priced by party size.
The Salkantay trek is one of the best treks to Machu Picchu. It is even more fantastic if you share this special moment with just your friends and family. We offer the wonderful option of a private tour which is ideal for families with children and for inexperienced hikers. On the private tour, you are able to set your own pace without having to worry about slowing down or waiting for others in your group. Our private Salkantay trek can start with any size, and we will do all our best to make this an experience of a lifetime for you.
- 2 Hikers: $720 per person
- 3 Hikers: $690 per person
- 4 Hikers: $660 per person
- 5 Hikers: $630 per person
- 6 Hikers: $600 per person
- 7 + Hikers: $570 per person
Students discount
From 18 to 25 years old get a discount of $20
From 12 to 17 years old, get a discount of $20.
Children under 11 years all get a discount of $20.
Student discounts apply to anyone who has the information required from the student card: name of the university, student name, photo of the student, expiration date, etc. A copy of the card is required at booking to obtain government approval for the discount. For people 17 years of age or younger, we will need a copy of the passport at booking time.
Please send all documents to info@inkatrailexplorer.com
Some considerations for Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu – Salkantay Trail
For example, if you book a trek or tour at the age of 17 but, you turn 18 before you start your trek or tour, you do not qualify for a student discount.
To confirm your booking, a deposit of USD $ 200 per person via PayPal + 6% of the PayPal transaction in order to purchase all the entrance fees to Machu Picchu and train tickets is required. The deposit can be done via PAYPAL or Western Union. Go to our booking option.
Important Information about Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu – Salkantay Trail
We know planning an adventure vacation is no small decision, so we’re here to make the process as easy as possible for you. We’ve been doing this for quite a while, so we’ve got the answers to everything you need to know!
Upon your arrival in Cusco City
You will be welcomed by one of our transfers at Cusco airport and then you will be transferred to your hotel. Find out your transfer in Cusco airport holding our Inka trail Explorer. Please you should provide us with your flight schedule before you leave home.
The briefing
Your guide will meet you in your hotel 1 or 2 days prior to you starting the trek, depending on your preference. your guide will explain everything concerning the trek in detail. This includes the Salkantay Trek schedule and a few tips on how to make the Salkantay trek easier. You also will receive a duffel bag which is meant to contain all of your personal belongings.
Can I leave my Suitcase in your storage?
Usually, most of the hotels in Cusco city offer free storage but, definitely, you can leave your suitcase in our store while you go on trek or tour, we offer free storage.
How do I pay the balance?
Your final balance should be paid in cash and it can be done in American dollars or in the local currency (Peruvian soles). We kindly request pay your final balance at least 24 hours prior to you starting the trek. You also can pay your balance via PayPal 10 days prior to you start the trek. To pay your final balance via PayPal, you need to log into your PayPal account using our e-mail address – peruinkatrailtours@gmail.com
Can I cancel my trip or change my departure date?
As soon as you make your confirmation by paying your deposit we proceed to purchase the permits, Machu Picchu tickets and train tickets. The Salkantay trek and Machu Picchu permits or tickets cannot be cancelled, changed in date or transferred to other travellers and unfortunately, there is no refund.
Do I need my Original passport when I travel to Machu Picchu?
Yes, it is very important to bring the original passport with you. If you are a foreigner, you need a passport to enter Machu Picchu. Not just any passport. It has to be the passport you used to book your trip to Peru or buy your entry tickets to different attractions in Cusco – Peru.
If you renew your passport after you book your trip to Peru, you must travel with both the old and the new passports. You can send us via e-mail a copy of your new and old passports and we will be able to upgrade your new passport information.
As long as you enjoy hiking, you’ll love these trails – you’ll be hiking about eight miles a day, but there’s no rush, you can take it at your own pace. In fact, the slower the better I say, as that way you get plenty of time not only to enjoy your surroundings but let your body acclimatize to the altitude as well.
We recommend doing plenty of exercises before you leave home, as the fitter you are, the more you’ll enjoy your hike. We suggest you try to go for short walks or run 2-3 times a week. If you have access to some walking trails that go over hills then go and explore, Hit the gym if you can’t do outdoor activities.
That said our trips are designed for regular active people, so you don’t need to be a triathlete or anything – though if you are you won’t be bored!
What if I need a special diet?
We cater to all the food restrictions you might have; we work with professional cooks who will take care of you. You also can specify your particular requirements when you fill up our booking form.
- Vegan (no meat or animal products)
- Vegetarian (no meat products)
- Fishatarian (vegetarian, and eat fish)
- No red meat (eat chicken & fish)
- Gluten intolerant (no wheat, rye, barley or oats)
- Lactose intolerant (no dairy products)
Do you recommend buying travel insurance?
You should have full travel insurance cover – please be aware that some insurance companies require insurance to be purchased within 7 days of deposit payment. It is imperative for you to have medical cover and emergency repatriation and we strongly recommend a comprehensive travel insurance policy that also includes trip cancellation and other travel mishaps (e.g. flight cancellations or delays, trip interruption, theft or loss of luggage and personal effects).
Optional Rentals for the Salkantay trek
Rentals
- Sleeping Bag $25 USD
- Walking Pole $8 USD each
- Inflatable Mattress $25 USD
- Single Tent Supplement $30 USD
Optional Upgrades
- Vistadome train: (One-Way): $40 USD per person
- Casa Andina Hotel: $45 USD per person if sharing ($110 for a single)
- El Mapi Hotel: +$50USD per person if sharing (+$110 for a single)
Huayna Picchu Mountain – not Included in Price
Huayna Picchu is a stunning mountain that sits directly behind Machu Picchu, this is the infamous sugar-loaf mountain which sits at an elevation of 2,720m and 300m above the Machu Picchu Inca Citadel.
There are some archaeological remains such as the Moon Temple and other precincts that are interconnected with authentic trails, steps, tunnels and natural formatted caves which made the view more interesting, without any doubt, Huayna Picchu mountain can be the highlight of your trip to Machu Picchu.
The last stretch to get to the summit is very steep, narrow, and in some parts, you are required to use your hands for balance. There are some stone ladders to climb up the cliff face along the way. if you have problems with the heights this may not be the hike for you. The summit itself is not flat but is instead rocky, therefore when the crowd picks up it can be a bit difficult to move around.
- Difficulty – Due to the complexity and gradient of the trail, the hike is rather challenging.
- Duration – The round trip can take between 1.5 to 2 hours on average.
- Elevation – The mountain’s summit sits at 2,693masl, while the climb itself is 353m.
Huayna Picchu mountain can be climbed in 2 different sessions:
- The first session: from 7 am to 8 am
- The second session: from 10 am to 11 am
Machu Picchu Mountain – not Included in Price
The climb up to Machu Picchu mountain is nearly twice as high as Huayna Picchu but has a more gradual ascent profile up to its summit at 1,850 feet (~620m) above the city ruins (3,051m above sea level).
Panoramic views are from another world. The Inca ruins, Huayna Picchu and Putucusi Mountains look so small behind the giant row of mountains that it makes you wonder if it is true what you are seeing. You will be astonished!
The awe-inspiring view is still composed of a bright blue sky, clouds and the Urubamba River snaking around colossal mountains covered with lush vegetation. What a gift from mother nature!
- Difficulty – Due to the complexity and gradient of the trail, the hike is rather challenging.
- Duration – The round trip can take between 2.5 to 3 hours on average.
- Elevation – The mountain’s summit sits at 3,000masl, while the climb itself is 600m.
Machu Picchu mountain can be climbed in 2 different sessions:
- The first session: from 7 am to 8 am
- The second session: from 9 am to 10 am
Free Tours
If you are travelling with 4 or more of your friends or family in your group, you will automatically get one of our additional tours for free. You may choose whichever one of the tours suits your fancy from the list below. Please, keep in mind that we do not include the entrance fees for these tours. What we do provide are transportation and a professional tour guide.
Do not worry single travellers! If you travel with us, you will also get special discounts on any of our additional tours.
- Sacred Valley Tour
- Cusco City Tour
Packing List for the trek to Salkantay
Essentials
- Passport
- Valid GREEN ISIC card (if you booked as a student)
- Immigration Card (given on the plane as you enter Peru)
- A small daypack
- Water storage: Water reservoirs like Camelbaks are highly recommended. No matter which type, be sure you are able to carry at least 2-3 litres.
- Comfortable hiking boots with ankle support
What do I need to pack in my Duffle Bag?
Remember you are packing for 3 nights of camping and 1 night in a hotel. Horses will carry up to 8 kg of your personal items. This must include your sleeping bag and air matt if you bring them yourself. If you decide to rent them from us them they will weigh a total of 3.5 kg.
- 4 wicking t-shirts
- 2 hiking pants at least
- 4 sets of undergarments
- 4 sets of hiking socks
- 1 Fleece jacket
- Warm, down jacket: this trek includes 2 cold nights of camping
- Headlamp (**essential)
- Waterproof gloves
- Comfortable shoes for camp
- Quickdry towel. Whilst we provide small ones, you might enjoy something a little larger.
- Soap: Warm water will be provided each day for cleaning purposes.
- Battery Charger: There are some places to plug in at the camping areas.
- Large plastic bags to help organize and keep the trail clean.
- Sleeping bag: Recommend down bags for at least -10°C
Toiletries
- Face moisturizer
- Hand-sanitizer
- Wet wipes
- Toothbrush and toothpaste
- Toilet paper
What do I need to pack in my Daypack?
Daypacks can be any size for hiking, but we recommend using a small one. During the Machu Picchu tour, no bag larger than 25L will be allowed in. If it is larger, you will need to store it outside the citadel gates.
- Water: We supply clean water during each meal, but you are responsible for your first morning of water because we won’t have time to filter water until your lunch.
- Bug spray
- Sunscreen
- Sunhat
- Woolhat
- Rain gear
- Fleece jacket
- Camera
- Hand-sanitizer
- First-aid kit: band-aids, moleskin, etc.
- Toilet paper and small plastic bags for waste
- Extra Money for Souvenirs, Drinks & Tips
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