The Salkantay Trek is a renowned Andean adventure that promises a captivating 4-day/3-night journey through stunning landscapes. This private service trek offers an all-inclusive experience, featuring an English/Spanish-speaking guide, accommodations, meals, and transportation. Participants will witness the breathtaking Humantay Lagoon, the majestic Salkantay mountain, and the iconic Machu Picchu. While the trek requires physical fitness due to its strenuous nature, the tour provides essential gear and support to ensure a safe and memorable experience. Intrigued adventurers will find themselves immersed in the rich cultural tapestry and natural wonders of the Andes.
This experience made our list of the 20 Best Private Drivers In Andes Mountains Peru.
Key Points
- This private service trek offers a 4-day/3-night Salkantay adventure, showcasing stunning Andean landscapes and visiting key destinations like Humantay Lagoon, Salkantay, Santa Teresa, and Machu Picchu.
- The all-inclusive experience includes an entrance ticket to Machu Picchu, guided tours, accommodations, meals, and transportation, with options for vegetarian diets.
- Suitability is limited for certain medical conditions and physical abilities, with proper preparation and fitness required due to the strenuous nature of the trek.
- A pre-departure briefing and a duffel bag for 7 kg of personal belongings are provided as part of the service.
- The trek involves transportation to the trailhead, private campsites, and a hostel stay in Aguas Calientes before the visit to Machu Picchu.
Trip Overview
Private Service || Salkantay Trek 4 Days / 3 Nights ||
Trip Overview
The Salkantay Trek offers a 4-day/3-night adventure, taking adventurers on a journey through stunning Andean landscapes at a cost of around SEK 7,211 per person. Trekkers will enjoy hiking with incredible scenery, visiting the Humantay Lagoon, Salkantay, Santa Teresa, and the iconic Machu Picchu. The trek is full of adventure, providing a briefing prior to departure, a duffel bag for personal belongings, an English/Spanish-speaking guide, and accommodations including 1 night camping and 1 night in a hostel. Meals, transportation, and a guided tour of Machu Picchu are included, making this an all-inclusive trekking experience. With vegetarian options available and a first aid kit on hand, this trek is a must for outdoor enthusiasts.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Andes Mountains Peru.
Daily Itinerary
The Salkantay Trek begins with Day 1, where trekkers depart from Cusco and make their way to Soraypampa, visiting the stunning Humantay Lagoon before reaching the private camp at Quiswarniyoc.
On Day 2, the group ascends to the Salkantay Pass, then descends to the Wuayracmachay camp.
Continuing on Day 3, they trek to Santa Teresa and take transportation to the Hydroelectric station, before reaching Aguas Calientes.
Inclusions
Private Service || Salkantay Trek 4 Days / 3 Nights ||
Inclusions
Among the inclusions for the Salkantay Trek are an entrance ticket to Machu Picchu, a pre-departure briefing, and a duffel bag for 7 kg of personal belongings per hiker. Plus, the trek features an English/Spanish-speaking guide and a guided tour of Machu Picchu. Transportation to the trailhead, accommodations (1 night camping, 1 night hostel), and meals (3 breakfasts, 2 lunches, 2 dinners) are also included. Hikers will have the convenience of horses to carry up to 7 kg per person, and a first aid kit and oxygen bottle are on hand. The local municipality fee is covered as well. Vegetarian options are available to accommodate dietary needs.
Exclusions
Aside from the inclusions, the Salkantay Trek also has a few exclusions.
Additional expenses, tips, and gratuities aren’t covered in the overall cost of the trek. While the itinerary provides a comprehensive package, travelers should budget for:
- Any personal purchases or souvenirs they wish to take home
- Tips for the guide, porters, and other support staff – typically around 10-15% of the total trip cost
- Gratuities for exceptional service or additional requests
These exclusions allow travelers to customize their experience and show appreciation for the hard-working team that makes the trek possible. Budgeting for these additional costs upfront ensures a seamless and enjoyable journey along the Salkantay route.
More Great Tours NearbySuitability
While the Salkantay Trek offers an unforgettable adventure, it may not suit all travelers. The trek isn’t recommended for pregnant women, people with heart problems, wheelchair users, or those prone to vertigo due to the physically demanding nature and high altitudes involved.
Hikers should be prepared for strenuous climbs, steep descents, and changing weather conditions. However, with proper preparation and physical fitness, most healthy adults can complete the trek.
It’s crucial to consult with a medical professional before booking the trip if you have any underlying health concerns. The tour operator can also provide guidance on the trek’s difficulty and assist in determining if it’s the right fit for an individual’s capabilities.
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Recommended Gear
Travelers embarking on the Salkantay Trek should pack essential gear to ensure their comfort and safety throughout the journey. It’s crucial to bring the right supplies to handle the diverse terrain and weather conditions.
Recommended items include:
- Waterproof hiking boots to navigate the rocky, uneven trails
- Breathable, moisture-wicking layers to stay dry and comfortable
- Trekking poles to provide stability and reduce strain on the knees
Plus, don’t forget sun protection, a warm jacket, and a headlamp for the evenings. By packing the right gear, trekkers can focus on seeing the stunning Andean landscapes and making the most of their Salkantay adventure.
Briefing and Duffel Bag
Before embarking on the Salkantay Trek, trekkers receive a thorough briefing that covers essential information about the journey ahead. The briefing ensures everyone is prepared for the trek, covering topics like the daily itinerary, gear recommendations, and safety protocols.
Participants are provided with a duffel bag that can hold up to 7 kg of their personal belongings, which are transported separately by the trek’s support staff. This allows hikers to focus on the trail, knowing their gear is taken care of.
Hikers appreciate this guidance, as it helps them make the most of their Salkantay adventure. With the duffel bag and pre-trip briefing, trekkers can enjoy the trek without worrying about their belongings.
Transportation and Accommodation
The tour includes transportation to the trailhead, allowing participants to focus on the trek itself without worrying about logistics.
Once on the trail, hikers have the opportunity to stay in a variety of accommodations, including a private campsite and a hostel.
The highlights of the accommodations include:
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A private campsite called Quiswarniyoc, providing a secluded and comfortable setting for the first night’s stay.
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A hostel in Aguas Calientes, the town at the base of Machu Picchu, offering a more urban experience before the grand finale.
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Chaullay Camp, another private camping location, providing a tranquil atmosphere amidst the stunning natural surroundings.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Group Size for This Trek?
The group size for this trek is not specified in the provided information. However, the inclusions mention that the trek includes a private guide, suggesting it’s likely a small group or private tour rather than a large group.
Are There Any Age Restrictions for Participants?
The trek doesn’t have any age restrictions, but it’s not suitable for pregnant women, people with heart problems, wheelchair users, or those with vertigo. Participants should be in good physical condition to handle the strenuous hiking.
Can I Store Extra Luggage During the Trek?
Participants can store extra luggage during the trek. The tour provider offers a duffel bag for up to 7 kg of personal belongings that’ll be carried by the horses throughout the hike.
Is There an Option to Hire a Porter or Guide?
The trek includes an English/Spanish-speaking guide and horses to carry up to 7 kg of personal belongings per hiker. Porters aren’t mentioned, but hikers can likely hire one for an additional fee if desired.
Can I Customize the Itinerary to Suit My Preferences?
Travelers can often customize the Salkantay Trek itinerary to suit their preferences. The tour operator typically provides flexibility to adjust the daily schedule, activities, and accommodation options based on the group’s interests and abilities.
Recap
The Salkantay Trek is a remarkable Andean adventure that showcases stunning landscapes, including Humantay Lagoon, Salkantay, and the iconic Machu Picchu.
This all-inclusive experience provides an experienced guide, comfortable accommodations, and essential gear, making it an ideal choice for physically fit adventurers seeking an unforgettable journey through the Peruvian highlands.
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