The Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu is a five-day adventure that immerses trekkers in Peru’s breathtaking landscapes. This group service experience guides participants through snow-capped mountains, lush jungles, and the iconic Inca citadel. With a maximum group size of 16, explorers can expect personalized attention, gourmet meals, and the camaraderie of fellow adventurers as they tackle the challenging terrain at high elevations. The well-structured itinerary promises scenic hikes, cultural insights, and a guided tour of Machu Picchu – an opportunity to uncover the rich history and natural wonders that make this trek a truly unforgettable journey.
Good To Know
- 5-day guided Salkantay Trek from Mollepata to Machu Picchu, crossing a 15,200 ft pass and traversing diverse landscapes.
- Group service includes an experienced bilingual guide, camping equipment, and gourmet meals throughout the trek.
- Itinerary covers highlights such as the Salkantay Pass, cloud forests, Llactapata Viewpoint, and a guided tour of Machu Picchu.
- Fitness requirement is high, with daily hikes of up to 6-8 hours on steep, rugged terrain.
- Group size is limited to a maximum of 16 participants to ensure a personalized trekking experience.
Overview of the Salkantay Trek
Spanning five days and four nights, the Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu takes adventurers on a captivating journey through the diverse landscapes of Cusco, Peru.
Highlights of the trek include visiting the sacred site of Machu Picchu via the Salkantay route, and traversing a range of terrains from snow-capped mountains to cloud forests and jungles.
Reaching an impressive elevation of 15,200 feet (4,650 meters) at the highest pass, the trek offers guided tours, a sunrise visit at Machu Picchu, and cultural insights from local guides.
Catering to experienced trekkers, the Salkantay Trek requires a strong level of physical fitness, though the stunning scenery and immersive cultural experiences make the challenge well worth it.
Itinerary Breakdown
The Salkantay Trek’s 5-day itinerary takes trekkers through a diverse array of landscapes, from snow-capped peaks to lush cloud forests and jungles.
On the first day, travelers are picked up at 5 am and hike to Cruzpata for lunch, then onward to the Soraypampa campsite.
Day 2 features the challenging ascent to the highest pass at 15,200 feet, followed by a descent through the cloud forest to Colcapampa.
The third day involves trekking through the upper jungle, crossing the Lluskamayo River, and an optional visit to hot springs.
Reaching Llactapata on day 4 offers stunning views of Machu Picchu before the hike to Aguas Calientes.
The final day is spent exploring the iconic Machu Picchu citadel.
Day 1: Mollepata to Soraypampa
Travelers depart Cusco at 5 am for the drive to Mollepata, where their Salkantay trek begins. After arriving, they hike to the village of Cruzpata for lunch with stunning mountain views. The group then continues trekking to the Soraypampa campsite, situated at an elevation of 13,776 feet (4,200 meters).
| Stops | Activities |
|---|---|
| Mollepata | Bus pickup at 5 am |
| Cruzpata | Hike to Cruzpata for lunch with mountain views |
| Soraypampa Camp | Trek to Soraypampa |
The first day sets the stage for the breathtaking journey ahead, as the group traverses diverse landscapes towards the iconic Machu Picchu.
Day 2: Soraypampa to Colcapampa
On the second day, the group begins their hike from the Soraypampa campsite.
After breakfast, they’ll ascend to the highest point of the trek – the Salkantay Pass at 15,200 feet (4,650 meters). The climb is challenging, but the panoramic views of snow-capped peaks make it worthwhile.
Once at the top, they’ll have lunch at Huayracpunku before descending through the cloud forest to the Colcapampa campsite.
The change in scenery is dramatic, transitioning from the stark, alpine environment to the lush, verdant cloud forest.
The guides ensure the group’s safety and comfort throughout the day’s trek.
Day 3: Colcapampa to Santa Teresa
Departing the Colcapampa campsite, the group presses on through the upper jungle, crossing the Lluskamayo River before setting up camp in La Playa.
Today’s trek takes them deeper into the lush, verdant landscape, with the sound of the flowing river providing a soothing backdrop.
After lunch, travelers have the option to visit the nearby hot springs, a welcome respite after the day’s hike.
As the sun dips below the horizon, the group gathers around the campfire, sharing stories and reflecting on the journey so far.
With another day of trekking ahead, the team prepares for the challenges and wonders that await them on the path to Machu Picchu.
Day 4: Santa Teresa to Aguas Calientes
After an evening spent in Santa Teresa, the group sets out early the next morning.
The day’s hike takes them through the upper jungle, crossing the Lluskamayo River before reaching the village of La Playa, where they set up camp.
Following breakfast, the trekkers embark on an ascent to the Llactapata Viewpoint, offering a stunning view of the iconic Machu Picchu ruins in the distance.
From there, the group descends to the town of Aguas Calientes, the gateway to Machu Picchu.
The day’s journey showcases the diverse landscapes of the Salkantay region, preparing the trekkers for their highly anticipated visit to the ancient Inca citadel.
Day 5: Machu Picchu Visit
The final day of the Salkantay Trek begins with an early breakfast, as the group prepares to witness the grandeur of Machu Picchu.
After a short bus ride, they arrive at the iconic citadel. The guided tour provides insights into the rich history and architectural marvels of this ancient Inca site.
Key highlights include:
- Exploring the iconic Inca Trail and visiting the Sun Gate.
- Marveling at the serene Sacred Plaza and the impressive Temple of the Sun.
- Discovering the unique agricultural terraces and the Inca’s advanced engineering.
With ample time for personal exploration, the group immerses themselves in the mystical ambiance of Machu Picchu before beginning the journey back.
Inclusions, Exclusions, and Additional Information
The Salkantay Trek package includes several key elements to ensure a seamless and enriching experience for travelers. From professional bilingual guides to camping equipment and gourmet meals, the inclusions cover the essentials for a successful trek. Conversely, the exclusions outline what’s not covered, like international flights and optional activities. Regarding additional details, a strong fitness level is required, and the group size is capped at 16 participants. With excellent reviews praising the guides’ expertise and the trek’s stunning vistas, the Salkantay Trek offers an unforgettable journey to Machu Picchu.
| Included | Excluded | Additional Information |
|---|---|---|
| Professional bilingual guide | International/domestic flights | Fitness level: Strong |
| Camping equipment | Airport taxes or visa fees | Group size: Max 16 travelers |
| Meals and snacks for 4 days | Single supplement fee | Wheelchair accessibility: No |
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Bring My Own Camping Gear Instead of Renting?
Yes, travelers can bring their own camping gear instead of renting. However, they should confirm this with the tour operator in advance, as the company may provide certain necessary equipment as part of the trek package.
Is There a Minimum Age Requirement for the Trek?
The Salkantay Trek doesn’t have a minimum age requirement, but it’s a physically demanding hike. Travelers of all ages can participate, but those under 12 may struggle with the high altitudes and challenging terrain.
How Often Are Bathroom Breaks Available During the Hike?
Bathroom breaks are provided regularly throughout the hike, generally every 1-2 hours. There are designated rest areas with portable toilets along the trail. Guides ensure adequate time is allotted for these necessary stops during the trek.
Can I Upgrade to a Private Tour for Additional Cost?
Yes, travelers can upgrade to a private Salkantay Trek for an additional cost. This provides a more personalized experience with a private guide and greater flexibility throughout the itinerary.
Is There a Weight Limit for the Mules Carrying Gear?
The tour operator has a weight limit of 25 pounds per person for the mules carrying gear. This ensures the animals are not overburdened during the trek. Additional gear may be subject to extra fees.
The Sum Up
The 5-Day Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu offers an unparalleled adventure through Peru’s stunning landscapes. Trekkers can expect personalized attention, delicious meals, and the camaraderie of fellow explorers as they traverse the challenging terrain. With a maximum group size of 16, this trek provides an exceptional group service experience, culminating in a guided tour of the iconic Machu Picchu.