Salkantay Ultra 5 Days & 5 Nights

The Salkantay Ultra 5 Days & 5 Nights trek promises an unforgettable adventure through the rugged Andes. Trekkers will explore diverse landscapes, from glaciers and lagoons to lush forests, while taking on challenging terrain and high-altitude passes. Along the way, they’ll have the opportunity to enjoy the local culture, experiencing coffee and fruit production. With the iconic Machu Picchu ruins as the grand finale, this trek offers a comprehensive journey through one of Peru’s most breathtaking regions. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or seeking a transformative outdoor experience, the Salkantay Ultra trek may just be the adventure you’ve been searching for.

Key Points

• A 5-day, 5-night trekking adventure exploring diverse landscapes in the Andes, including glaciers, lagoons, and forests, culminating in a viewpoint of Salkantay and Humantay glaciers.
• The trek departs from Cusco, reaches Salkantay glacier viewpoint on Day 1, and culminates with a sunrise visit to the iconic Machu Picchu ruins.
• The itinerary includes highlights such as the Humantay Lagoon, Salkantay Pass (4,630m), and vibrant coffee and fruit production areas.
• The trek is led by experienced native guides, includes all meals, camping gear, and permits, and offers a comprehensive approach for an immersive Andean adventure.
• The trek is physically demanding, with significant altitude gain, long distances, and challenging, steep, and uneven terrain, making it unsuitable for certain groups.

Trip Overview

This 5-day and 5-night Salkantay Ultra trek offers a comprehensive exploration of diverse landscapes, including glaciers, lagoons, and forests, culminating in a breathtaking viewpoint of the Salkantay and Humantay glaciers.

Priced at $930 per person, this trekking experience promises to immerse adventurers in the stunning natural beauty of the Andes.

Along the way, trekkers will have the opportunity to witness the majestic Salkantay glacier, hike to the Humantay Lagoon, and navigate through the Salkantay Pass.

With an experienced native leader, this trek ensures a safe and enriching journey, providing transportation, meals, equipment, and more.

Whether you’re an avid hiker or seeking a unique outdoor adventure, the Salkantay Ultra trek offers an unforgettable experience.

Itinerary Breakdown

The Salkantay Ultra trek unfolds over the course of 5 days and 5 nights, guiding adventurers through a captivating tapestry of glaciers, lagoons, and lush forests.

On the first day, trekkers embark from Cusco, making a stopover at the breathtaking Salkantay glacier viewpoint (6279m) before reaching their campsite at Soraypampa.

Day 2 takes them to Soqrococha (4480m) and the stunning Humantay Lagoon (4200m).

They then ascend to the Salkantay Pass (4630m) on Day 3 before descending to Qollpapampa (2750m).

The trek continues through coffee and fruit production areas, culminating in a sunrise visit to the iconic Machu Picchu on the final day.

Day-by-Day Highlights

Breathtaking vistas and awe-inspiring landscapes unfold throughout the Salkantay Ultra trek, captivating adventurers at every turn.

On Day 1, hikers reach the stunning Salkantay glacier viewpoint at 6,279 meters, gazing upon the mighty snow-capped peaks.

Day 2 brings the tranquil Humantay Lagoon, its turquoise waters reflecting the surrounding mountains.

Crossing the Salkantay Pass on Day 3 offers unparalleled panoramas before descending into lush, temperate forests.

The trek then winds through a vibrant coffee and fruit production area on Day 4 before the grand finale – witnessing the sunrise over the iconic ruins of Machu Picchu on the final day.

Each step of this captivating journey rewards trekkers with unforgettable natural splendor.

Included Experiences

Travelers on the Salkantay Ultra trek enjoy a wealth of included experiences that elevate the journey. From reliable transportation to experienced native leadership, the expedition is thoughtfully curated to ensure participants’ comfort and safety.

The inclusive package covers all meals prepared by a professional chef, as well as camping gear, hiking poles, and even a porter to carry the group’s equipment. With permits and water also provided, hikers can focus on seeing the stunning landscapes without having to worry about logistical details.

This comprehensive approach allows guests to fully experience the natural wonders of the Salkantay and Humantay glaciers, forests, and more, creating an unforgettable adventure.

Exclusions and Restrictions

While the Salkantay Ultra trek offers an immersive journey through stunning landscapes, it’s not suitable for everyone.

Pregnant women, wheelchair users, visually impaired individuals, and people over the age of 80 aren’t permitted to participate due to the physically demanding nature of the trek. The trail involves traversing high-altitude passes, navigating rugged terrain, and enduring challenging weather conditions. These factors can pose significant risks for those with certain physical limitations or health concerns.

Plus, the trek doesn’t include entry tickets to popular attractions like Waynapicchu and Machu Picchu Mountain, which must be purchased separately. Travelers should carefully consider their own abilities and limitations before booking this strenuous adventure.

Booking Information

Booking the Salkantay Ultra trek is a straightforward process – travelers can reserve their spot now and pay later. This flexible approach allows adventurers to secure their place on the 5-day, 5-night journey without an immediate financial commitment.

Cancellations up to 24 hours in advance are eligible for a full refund, providing peace of mind for those planning their Andean exploration. The tour operator recommends booking at least a month in advance to ensure availability, as this popular trek fills up quickly.

With transportation, meals, equipment, and all necessary permits included, the Salkantay Ultra trek offers a hassle-free way to experience the stunning landscapes of Peru’s Andes mountains.

Recommended Preparation

Proper physical conditioning and gear selection are essential for a successful Salkantay Ultra trek. Prospective participants should undergo a gradual fitness regimen, building up cardiovascular endurance and muscle strength, particularly in the legs, to tackle the high-altitude, multi-day hike.

Plus, outfitting oneself with appropriate hiking boots, layers, and other essential equipment can significantly enhance the overall experience and ensure comfort throughout the journey.

To best prepare, hikers should:

1. Incorporate regular cardiovascular exercises like hiking, running, or cycling into their routine.
2. Strengthen leg muscles through activities like squats, lunges, and calf raises.
3. Break in new hiking boots well in advance to prevent blisters.
4. Pack essential items like warm layers, rain gear, sun protection, and hydration systems.

Trek Difficulty and Fitness

The Salkantay Ultra trek presents a formidable challenge that demands a high level of physical fitness and stamina from participants. Trekkers will encounter significant changes in altitude, from the starting point in Cusco at 3,400 meters (11,154 feet) to the pinnacle of the Salkantay Pass at 4,630 meters (15,190 feet), requiring robust cardiovascular endurance and leg strength to conquer the steep, uneven terrain. Prospective trekkers should assess their fitness level honestly and train accordingly to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. The trek is not recommended for those with pre-existing medical conditions, pregnant women, or individuals over the age of 80.

Difficulty Level	Elevation Gain	Terrain Difficulty	Hiking Time
Strenuous	1,230 meters	Challenging	6-8 hours
High altitude	4,630 meters	Steep, uneven	Daily
Long distance	78 kilometers	Rocky, slippery	5 days
Rapid ascent	1,230 meters	Exposed to weather	Continuous

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Best Time of Year to Do the Salkantay Ultra Trek?

The best time to do the Salkantay Ultra trek is during the dry season, which runs from May to September. This ensures clear skies, moderate temperatures, and fewer rainfall interruptions along the high-altitude route.

How Many Porters Are Provided to Carry Our Gear?

The Salkantay Ultra trek provides a porter to carry each participant’s gear, ensuring a comfortable and hassle-free experience. Porters are included in the tour package, allowing hikers to focus on the stunning scenery during the trek.

Can We Bring Our Own Camping Equipment Instead?

Yes, travelers can bring their own camping equipment on the trek. The tour company provides camping gear, but allows participants to use their own if they prefer. This can provide more comfort and customization for the trekking experience.

Are There Any Additional Costs for Food or Drinks During the Trek?

The trek includes all meals and drinking water, so there are no additional costs for food or drinks. The tour company provides a chef to prepare nutritious meals during the hike.

What Type of Medical Support Is Available on the Trail?

The trekking company provides a first-aid kit and a guide trained in emergency response. However, they recommend travelers have their own travel insurance in case of any medical emergencies on the trail. Prompt evacuation to a hospital may be necessary for serious injuries or illnesses.

Recap

The Salkantay Ultra 5 Days & 5 Nights trek offers an unforgettable exploration of the Andes.

Trekkers can enjoy diverse landscapes, from glaciers to forests, while experiencing local culture and traditions.

With its challenging terrain, high-altitude passes, and the iconic Machu Picchu, this trek promises an adventure that will leave a lasting impression on adventurous travelers seeking to discover the beauty of Peru’s Andes.