From Cusco: Salkantay Trek 5 Days 4 Nights

The Salkantay Trek from Cusco offers adventurous travelers a chance to explore the majestic Andean landscapes and the famed Inca citadel of Machu Picchu. Spanning 5 days and 4 nights, this trek promises breathtaking vistas, encounters with local wildlife, and the opportunity to take in the rich cultural heritage of the region. With a knowledgeable guide, comfortable accommodations, and most meals included, the Salkantay Trek provides a well-organized and seamless experience for those seeking to uncover the secrets of this extraordinary corner of Peru.

Key Points

• 5-day, 4-night Salkantay Trek from Cusco, exploring Machu Picchu, Salkantay Mountain, Humantay Lagoon, and lush Andean landscapes.
• Prices start from $1,000 per person, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
• Includes transportation, porters, camping equipment, meals, and entrance fees to archaeological sites.
• Optional add-ons include Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain entrance ($60 each) and sleeping bag rental ($25).
• The trek offers opportunities to photograph Andean wildlife, such as llamas and alpacas.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Details

The Salkantay Trek is a 5-day, 4-night adventure from Cusco, with prices starting from $1,000 per person and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. Travelers can reserve now and pay later for this thrilling journey.

Along the way, they’ll discover the wonder of Machu Picchu, admire Andean landscapes, snow-capped mountains, and the majestic Salkantay Mountain. The trek also includes visits to archaeological sites and opportunities to photograph llamas and alpacas.

Hikers will camp near Salkantay Mountain on the first day, trek to the Salkantay Pass on the second day, and ascend to the Llaqtapata archaeological site before reaching Aguas Calientes on the fourth day. On the final day, they’ll enjoy a guided tour of the iconic Machu Picchu.

Highlights of the Trek

Travelers can look forward to a wealth of captivating sights and experiences throughout the 5-day Salkantay Trek, from the awe-inspiring Andean landscapes to the unique wildlife they’ll encounter along the way. Highlights include admiring the majestic Salkantay Mountain, photographing the ubiquitous llamas and alpacas, and discovering the ancient ruins of Machu Picchu.

Highlight	Description
Salkantay Mountain	Towering snow-capped peak with breathtaking vistas
Andean Wildlife	Llamas, alpacas, and other native species
Machu Picchu	Mysterious Inca citadel, a true wonder of the world

This trek promises to be a truly unforgettable adventure, showcasing the natural and cultural riches of Peru’s magnificent Andes.

Day-by-Day Itinerary

Embarking on the 5-day Salkantay Trek begins with a transfer from Cusco to Soraypampa, where trekkers will explore the serene Humantay Lagoon before setting up camp near the majestic Salkantay Mountain.

On the second day, the group will trek to the Salkantay Pass, descending to the Chaullay campsite.

The following day, they’ll trek through the lush jungle to the Lucmabamba campsite.

On the fourth day, they’ll ascend to the Llaqtapata archaeological site and then trek to Aguas Calientes, the town below Machu Picchu.

The final day includes a guided tour of the iconic Machu Picchu ruins before returning to Cusco.

Included in the Tour

The Salkantay Trek package includes a bilingual guide, transportation, porters, camping equipment, meals, entrance fees, and a train ticket to Aguas Calientes.

Plus, it provides a hotel stay in Aguas Calientes on the final night.

Travelers will have the convenience of having their belongings carried by the porters, allowing them to focus on the stunning natural landscapes during the trek.

Meals, including breakfast, lunch, and dinner, are provided throughout the 5-day journey.

The entrance fees to all archaeological sites along the way are covered, ensuring a seamless and hassle-free experience.

The train ticket to Aguas Calientes and the hotel stay on the final night make for a comfortable end to the adventurous trek.

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Excluded From the Tour

While the tour includes a wide range of amenities, there are a few items not covered in the package. Travelers will need to rent a sleeping bag at an additional cost of $25. Plus, entrance fees to Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain, which cost $60 each, aren’t included.

Breakfast on the first day and lunch on the final day are also not provided. Lastly, travelers are responsible for obtaining their own travel insurance, as this isn’t included in the tour.

The items excluded from the tour are:

1. Sleeping bag rental ($25)
2. Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain entrance ($60 each)
3. Breakfast on day 1 and lunch on day 5, travel insurance, and any services not mentioned.

Pricing and Booking

Prices for the 5-day, 4-night Salkantay trek start from $1,000 per person, with the option to reserve now and pay later. Travelers can take advantage of the free cancellation policy up to 24 hours in advance.

Tour Details	Cost
5-day, 4-night Salkantay Trek	$1,000+
Sleeping Bag Rental	$25
Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain Entrance	$60 each

To book the Salkantay trek, simply reserve your spot and pay later. This flexible approach allows you to secure your adventure and finalize the payment at a later time. With the free cancellation policy, you can rest assured that your plans can be adjusted if needed.

Cancellation Policy

Travelers can take advantage of the free cancellation policy, which allows them to cancel their Salkantay trek booking up to 24 hours in advance. This provides a great deal of flexibility, ensuring that guests can plan their trip with confidence. The cancellation policy is straightforward and easy to understand, making it a hassle-free process if plans change unexpectedly.

Key benefits of the free cancellation policy include:

Worry-free booking: Guests can reserve their spot without the risk of losing their deposit if their plans change.

Flexibility: Travelers can adjust their itinerary or cancel their trip with minimal financial impact.

Peace of mind: Knowing that a full refund is available if necessary provides an added layer of security.

Exploring Machu Picchu

The Salkantay trek culminates with a guided tour of the awe-inspiring Machu Picchu, allowing trekkers to discover the captivating history and grandeur of this iconic Inca citadel. As one of the New Seven Wonders of the World, Machu Picchu mesmerizes visitors with its impeccably preserved stone structures, expansive terraces, and breathtaking Andean landscapes. During the guided tour, trekkers will have the opportunity to explore the most significant features of the ancient site, including the Temple of the Sun, the Intihuatana Stone, and the Sacred Plaza.

Machu Picchu Highlights	Description
Temple of the Sun	Ceremonial structure aligned with the sun’s movements
Intihuatana Stone	Astronomical instrument used to track the sun’s position
Sacred Plaza	Central gathering place for Inca religious rituals

Exploring Machu Picchu is the culmination of the Salkantay trek, leaving trekkers with a profound sense of wonder and appreciation for the ingenuity and resilience of the Inca civilization.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Maximum Group Size for the Trek?

The maximum group size for the Salkantay trek is not specified in the provided information. The tour details focus on the itinerary, pricing, and inclusions, but do not mention the group size.

Can I Store My Luggage in Cusco During the Trek?

Travelers can store their luggage in Cusco during the 5-day Salkantay trek. The tour operator typically provides storage services at their office, allowing hikers to leave behind any items they don’t need on the trek.

Is It Possible to Hire a Porter to Carry My Backpack?

Yes, it is possible to hire a porter to carry your backpack during the Salkantay Trek. The tour package includes porter service, allowing you to enjoy the trek without the burden of carrying a heavy pack.

Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Trek?

The tour generally does not have age restrictions, but it is recommended for physically fit travelers aged 12 and above. Participants under 18 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian.

Can I Extend My Stay in Aguas Calientes After the Trek?

Yes, travelers can extend their stay in Aguas Calientes after the Salkantay Trek. The tour operator can assist with booking additional nights at a hotel in Aguas Calientes, allowing visitors more time to explore Machu Picchu and the surrounding area.

Recap

The Salkantay Trek offers a captivating five-day journey through the Andes, showcasing the region’s breathtaking landscapes and cultural wonders.

With a bilingual guide, transportation, and most meals included, this trek provides a comprehensive and convenient way to explore the iconic Machu Picchu and the surrounding natural beauty.

Whether seeking adventure or immersive cultural experiences, the Salkantay Trek is an excellent choice for those visiting Cusco.

You can check availability for your dates here: