The Salkantay Trek is a renowned trekking route in the Cusco region of Peru that leads to Machu Picchu. It is celebrated as one of the best alternative routes to the classic Inca Trail. This trek offers breathtaking mountain landscapes, high-altitude passes, and a variety of ecological zones, providing a rich and varied trekking experience.

The 5-day Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu covers a total distance of about 64 kilometers, which is approximately 39 miles. This journey starts at the base of the impressive Salkantay Mountain and continues through diverse landscapes until reaching the famous Machu Picchu.

The Salkantay Trekking to Machu Picchu, which takes 5 days and 4 nights, is quite challenging. It involves long walks each day, high altitudes, and some steep climbs. Being physically fit and having some previous experience with hiking at high altitudes are important to enjoy and complete this trek comfortably.

On the Ultimate Salkantay Trail, you will enjoy several breathtaking sights, including Humantay Lake, Salkantay Mountain, and hikes in the Andes and the cloud forest. Experience a traditional Pachamanca barbecue and coffee tours. You'll camp at Llactapata, which offers an amazing view of Machu Picchu from a distance and has a rich history. The trek concludes with a remarkable view of Machu Picchu.

On this trek, be ready for changing climates. At higher places like Salkantay Pass, expect cold and windy conditions, and as you descend into lower areas, the environment becomes warmer and more humid. Packing rain gear is essential because weather changes can happen quickly and are unpredictable.

The camping facilities during the Salkantay trek are basic yet functional. You will stay in tents at campsites that are equipped with essential facilities like toilets. Some campsites also have areas where cooks prepare your meals. These sites are set up to offer a comfortable resting experience in nature.

During the Salkantay Trek 5 days, you will need a daypack for daily essentials and a duffle bag provided by Ultimate Trekking during the briefing, which the mules will carry. It's important to note that, according to regulations, your backpack should not exceed 25L to be allowed in Machu Picchu. If you have a larger bag, please get in touch with us.

In the daypack, always carry:

• Original Passport for Machu Picchu
• Student ID (if you booked as a student)
• Sun protection, hats, and sunglasses
• Rain gear, jackets, rain ponchos
• Warm clothes (fleece jackets, sweaters)
• Sun cream, insect repellent
• Hand sanitizer, wet wipes, toilet paper
• Toothbrush and paste, face moisturizer
• Personal medication, band-aids, moleskin
• Camera, extra batteries, torch
• Camel bags or water containers for at least 2 liters
• Extra snacks, power bars, chocolate
• Extra money for souvenirs, drinks, and tips

What to pack in the duffle bags for the Salkantay Trek:

Ultimate Trekking Peru will provide a duffle bag during the briefing held the day before the trek at our office. This must include any sleeping bags (2 kilos) and air mattresses (1 kilo) you may need to rent from us. The duffle bags are only accessible at the campsites.

• Sleeping bag (can be hired from us)Air mattress (can be rented from us)
• Hiking shoes, sandals, or sneakers
• Warm jacket, hats, and gloves
• Five sets of clothing for the entire tour
• 3-4 comfortable pants for hiking
• Five sets of undergarments
• Five sets of hiking socks
• One fleece or down jacket
• Quick-dry towel
• Soap or shampoo
• Battery charger
• Plastic bags

These guidelines ensure that you have everything you need for a comfortable trek while complying with local regulations.

During the trek, you will receive three meals a day, which are prepared by cooks who travel with your group. The food includes a mix of local Peruvian dishes and familiar international foods, all designed to provide you with enough energy for the hike. Expect to enjoy a variety of nutritious meals such as soups, stews, pasta, rice dishes, fresh vegetables, and fruits.

Unlike the more crowded Inca Trail, the Salkantay Trek offers a journey through more remote areas, providing amazing natural scenery and a sense of adventure without the heavy tourist traffic. This trek is perfect for those who seek a more solitary and immersive experience in nature.

One of the biggest challenges on the trail is dealing with the high elevation, especially when you reach the Salkantay Pass, the highest point at about 4,600 meters (15,092 feet). The high altitude can make hiking more difficult and could lead to altitude sickness if not properly managed.

You need to be in moderate/good physical condition to undertake this 5-day trek. The trek involves several hours of hiking each day, often over rough terrain and steep slopes. Preparing with physical training and ensuring you are comfortable with long walks is highly recommended.

To help you adjust to the high altitudes, it is recommended that you arrive in Cusco a few days before the trek. Starting the trek at lower altitudes and gradually moving higher allows your body to adapt to the thin air, which can help prevent altitude sickness.

The Salkantay trek passes through various ecosystems, each supporting different types of flora and fauna. You might see orchids, ferns, and other high-altitude plants, as well as wildlife such as the Andean fox, different types of deer, and bird species like hummingbirds and the Andean condor.

Yes, the trek is not only about natural beauty but also includes rich cultural and historical aspects. You'll pass through local villages where you can learn about the lifestyles of the indigenous communities. The route also features visits to ancient Inca sites, providing a deep dive into the area's historical background.

The most favorable time to go on the Salkantay trek is during the dry season, which runs from April to October. During these months, the weather is generally clearer with minimal rainfall, making the trekking conditions safer and more enjoyable.

The cost for this trek usually ranges from $500 to $800, depending on the service level and the tour operator you choose. This fee typically covers all necessary services, including guides, porters, cooks, meals, camping equipment, entrance fees to Machu Picchu, and transport to and from the trek's start and end points.

Group sizes for these tours generally range from 8 to 16 people, which helps ensure a more personal and engaging experience. Smaller groups allow for better interaction with the guide and fellow trekkers.

Conservation efforts at Ultimate Trekking include strict rules on waste management, the use of eco-friendly practices in campsites, and guidelines that ensure minimal impact on the natural environment. These efforts help maintain the trail's beauty and sustainability for future visitors.

In case of an emergency, the trek is supported by experienced guides who are trained in first aid and emergency response. Emergency evacuation plans are in place, including porter assistance and transport to medical facilities if necessary. We travel equipped with a first aid kit, satellite phones, shortwave radios, and an oxygen tank.

Transportation to the starting point of the Salkantay Trek is organized by the tour company. If you are traveling by yourself, you can take a shared van or taxi from Arcopata to Mollepata town in Cusco. From there, hire a private taxi to Soraypampa and begin the hike to Humantay Lake and Machu Picchu.

To book the Salkantay Trek 5-day trip to Machu Picchu, we require an initial payment of $200 per person. This amount is used to book Machu Picchu tickets, hotels, and trains. In the event of cancellation, the initial deposit is non-refundable and non-transferable. However, if you are unable to travel, don't hesitate to get in touch with us to see how we can best assist you.