Ultimate Guide to the Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu
The 5 day Salkantay Trek is one of the best alternative trails to Machu Picchu in Peru.
It takes you to stunning glacier lakes and across snow-capped mountain passes. Along the way, you’ll enter cloud forests, walk ancient Inca pathways, and reach Peru’s most famous landmark, Machu Picchu.
I did the Salkantay Trek in July 2023 and was blown away by its beauty.
Yes, it’s a challenging hike. But it’s also incredibly rewarding.
Here’s everything you need to know about the Salkantay Trek, including what to expect along the way and how hard it is. I also share why I chose the Salkantay Trek vs Inca Trail and whether it was really worth it.
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Salkantay Trek overview
- Total distance: 74 km
- Time needed: 5 days (the 5th day is at Machu Picchu)
- Highest point: 4,630 m at the Salkantay Pass
- Difficulty: Challenging
- Starting point: Cusco
What is the Salkantay Trek
The classic Salkantay Trek is a 5 day hike to Machu Picchu. Named after the Salkantay Mountain, it’s one of the most scenic trails through the Peruvian Andes.
It’s easily accessible from Cusco (I recommend staying here in Cusco before the trek), but the trailhead officially starts in Soraypampa, a 3-hour drive away.
The Salkantay Trek lies in the shadow of the more famous Inca Trail. But the two offer a very different experience.
Salkantay Trek vs Inca Trail
The Salkantay Trek is a popular alternative hike to Machu Picchu.
Below are a few differences and why I chose to hike the Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu (instead of the Inca Trail).
1. The scenery & archaeology
The Salkantay Trek is said to be the most beautiful of the two hikes. It takes you over the mountains and crosses diverse landscapes.
It’s also a higher altitude trek that reaches 4,630 m above sea level. However, you only see ruins and authentic Inca pathways on day 4 of the Salkantay Trek.
2. Tour costs & availability
There are no restrictions to the number of hikers on the Salkantay Trek. This makes it a great option for travelers who don’t have fixed dates yet or who missed out on the Inca Trail.
3. Difficulty
The Salkantay Trek is known to be harder than the Inca Trail.
This is due to the higher elevation, the challenging mountain terrain, and the total walking distance, which is 74 km on the Salkantay Trail vs 42 km on the Inca Trail.
4. Arrival at Machu Picchu
The Salkantay Trek does not actually end at Machu Picchu. Instead, you finish in Aguas Calientes, the closest town to Machu Picchu.
Your last night is at a hotel in this town, and you’ll visit Machu Picchu the next day. You can either take a bus or walk to the main entrance. But regardless, you’ll be joined by every tourist going to the famous site.
With the Inca Trail, you follow the Inca’s route to the iconic Sun Gate before hiking down to the lost city of Machu Picchu.
But there’s a lot more to consider when deciding which to choose. I recommend reading my blog post comparing the Inca Trail to the Salkantay trek.
How long is the Salkantay Trek
There are two options for doing the Salkantay Trek: a 5 day tour or a 4 day tour.
With both of these, you’ll spend the last day exploring Machu Picchu.
5 day Salkantay Trek
The most popular Salkantay Trek itinerary is a 5 day, 4 night hike. I chose this option and recommend you do the same.
This classic route takes you to all the iconic locations, including Humantay Lake, Salkantay Pass, and Llactapata Ruins.
During the 5 day Salkantay Trek, you walk the entire journey from the starting point in Soraypampa to Aguas Calientes town.
Top tip: From my experience, day 4 of the 5 day trek was extremely difficult but 100% worth it. This is the section you’ll miss if you do the 4 day tour. It’s the only day you actually walk parts of the Inca Trail, and the views from Llactapata are incredible.
4 day Salkantay Trek
If you’re short on time, you can opt for the 4 day tour instead.
This is not the ideal option, but it’s still a fantastic tour if you don’t have much time in Peru.
Like the 5 day Salkantay Trek, the 4 day tour starts in Soraypampa and ends at Aguas Calientes.
So what’s the difference?
On day 3, you’ll walk most of the Salkantay Trail. At lunchtime, you’ll separate from the 5 day tour and take a bus to Hidroelectrica Train Station. From here, you’ll walk to Aguas Calientes.
This means you skip the Cocalmayo Hot Springs as well as the hike to Llactapata Ruins.
Things to know about the 5 Day Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu
Here are a few things to consider if you’re planning on doing the Salkantay Trek.
Salkantay trek difficulty
The Salkantay trail is a difficult hike, but it’s achievable for most people.
So, what makes it difficult?
Firstly, the high altitude at the Salkantay Pass, which sits at 4,630 m.
The ascent up the pass is the hardest part of the trek. This is because there’s less oxygen in the air, and it’s a struggle to breathe.
As a result, you’ll walk very slowly, and you may experience symptoms of altitude sickness. The freezing cold temperatures don’t make it any easier.
Secondly, it’s a long distance to walk.
The Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu is a 74 km trail, and you’re averaging 19 km per day over 4 days (because the last day is at Machu Picchu).
This, combined with the hilly terrain, only adds to its difficulty.
Here’s my post on how difficult the Salkantay Trek really is . It covers everything you need to know to get through the 5 day trek.
Best time to hike the Salkantay Trek
It’s possible to do the Salkantay Trek all year round.
But most tour operators don’t offer tours in February. This is because the route is often closed due to maintenance.
Here’s when you should plan your trip.
Dry Season: Best time to do the Salkantay Trail
Hiking season in Peru is from April to September.
During this time, you can expect clear skies and warmer temperatures. It’s a great time of year to be on the trails, and I recommend doing the Salkantay Trek during these months.
July and August is high season and the busiest time to visit Peru. The trails will be teeming with people, and Machu Picchu will be extremely crowded.
However, don’t be put off by this.
I did the Salkantay Trek in July and had a great time. But make sure you get to Machu Picchu early in the day to avoid the crowds.
Rainy Season
The wet season is from December to March. The weather can be unpredictable during this time, and you should be prepared for a few days of rain.
This makes the Salkantay Trek more dangerous, especially as you go up the Salkantay Pass. There is also a greater chance of last-minute cancellations due to bad weather.
Packing for the Salkantay Trek
The most important thing to pack for the Salkantay Trek is your Passport. You need this to enter Machu Picchu and will not be allowed in without it.
In terms of hiking gear, most tour companies provide a small duffel bag to trekkers.
This will allow you to store up to 7 kg of your clothing and personal items for the trek.
Yes – there’s a 7kg weight limit, which includes you’re sleeping bag. This is not a lot, considering it’s a 5 day trek, so you need to pack lightly and smartly.
Accommodation along the Salkantay Trek
The accommodation along the Salkantay Trek differs between tour operators.
This ranges from basic and luxury camping to glass domes and cabins. Your last night is spent at a hotel in Aguas Calientes.
For most tours, there are no showers on the first night. But from night two onwards, you can treat yourself to magnificent hot showers.
My mom and I did the Salkantay Trek with Inkayni Peru Tours , and I highly recommend them.
We camped for the first three nights, but it was more like a glamping experience, and we were extremely comfortable.
Each day, we arrived at our campsite with our tents already set up and offered snacks and hot chocolate as a reward for getting through the day.
One positive about camping is that you have the option of staying higher up the Salkantay Pass on night one. This was a huge advantage as we got a head start to the day and had the Salkantay Pass all to ourselves for sunrise the next morning.
Salkantay Trek highlights
If I haven’t convinced you to do the Salkantay Trek, this next part will!
Here are some of the highlights – most of which you won’t experience on the Inca Trail.
Humantay Lake
The first day of the Salkantay Trek starts with a bang!
After driving a few hours from Cusco, you’ll be dropped off at the trailhead in Soraypampa. Shortly after, the uphill hike to Humantay Lake begins.
Humantay Lake is a stunning turquoise glacier lake that sits at 4,200 m.
It’s a popular day trip from Cusco, so this part of the trek will be busy. But after returning from the lake, you’ll have the trail to yourself.
Salkantay Pass
With an elevation of 4,630 m, the Salkantay Pass is the highest point of the Salkantay Trek.
Getting to the pass takes a lot of mental and physical energy. But standing at the top and looking on to Salkantay Mountain is a feeling you’ll never forget.
From here, the trek only gets easier (well, until day 4) .
Cocalmayo Hot Springs
On the third day, you’ll reach your campsite at lunchtime. This gives you a free afternoon to explore the nearby attractions.
You can either visit the Cocalmayo Hot Springs or do a coffee tour. There’s even zip-lining!
I visited the Cocalmayo Hot Springs, and it’s just what my body needed.
There are four natural pools here with water of varying temperatures. We spent an hour relaxing in them, and it was a great break from the long trekking days.
Outside the hot springs, you’ll find kiosks selling refreshments and snacks.
Most people doing the Salkantay Trek congregate here, and it’s a great place to enjoy a few beers and meet other hikers.
I nearly didn’t visit these hot springs because of what other people said.
Yes, the water isn’t boiling hot.
Yes, it can get crowded on weekends.
But after three days of hiking the Salkantay Trek, your body will not care!
You’ll love the warm waters and will want to sit back and relax.
Llactapata archeological site
Llactapata is an important archaeological site near Machu Picchu. It’s less explored than other Inca sites and offers unspoiled views of Huayna Picchu Mountain.
To get to Llactapata, you follow the same trail the Incas did. This is the only part of the Salkantay Trek that includes the Inca route.
It’s a strenuous uphill hike from Lucmabamba to Llactapata. After exploring the site, you’ll descend the other side of the mountain, which is equally as challenging.
If you do the 4 day Salkantay Trek, you will skip this section of the trail.
Machu Picchu: The Highlight of The Salkantay Trail
And finally, the most iconic site on the 5 day Salkantay Trek: Machu Picchu.
This wonder of the world completely blew me away. I had heard so much about Machu Picchu and thought it might be overrated.
But I can confirm that it is not!
Machu Picchu is a fascinating place, and our exceptional guide, Percy, played a big part in my experience of visiting it.
Over the past 5 days on the Salkantay Trek, Percy had taken us on this incredible journey through time and nature that culminated with the history of Machu Picchu.
He shared stories of Pachamama (mother nature), the Incas, their mystery, and Peruvian culture.
His passion for his country and its people was one of the most beautiful things, and I learned so much from him.
You can visit Machu Picchu without a guide, but you’ll be missing out on so much.
Salkantay Trek itinerary
Below is an outline of the itinerary we followed.
- Day 1: Cusco – Soraypampa – Humantay Lake – Soyroccocha
- Day 2: Soyroccocha – Salkantay Pass – Wayraqmachay – Chaullay
- Day 3: Chaullay – Lucmabamba – Cocalmayo Hot Springs – Lucmabamba
- Day 4: Lucmabamba – Llactapata – Hidroelectrica – Aguas Calientes
- Day 5: Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu – Aguas Calientes – Ollantaytambo – Cusco
Salkantay trekking tours
I booked my Salkantay Trek tour through Inkayni Peru Tours after reading all these positive reviews , and they were fantastic.
Inkayni is a local tour operator specializing in smaller group tours and personalized services. And that’s exactly what I got.
I did the Salkantay Trek with my mom, who is in her 60s. It was a tough hike for both of us, but we made it to the end – and I have no doubt that you will too.
Our guide was patient and kind and offered all the support and encouragement we needed.
Inkayni took care of absolutely everything for us, from the Machu Picchu entrance ticket to the scenic train ride.
This was a special mother/daughter trip that was made extra special thanks to the team at Inkayni Peru Tours.
Other Salkantay Trek tours
Unlike the Inca Trail, the Salkantay Trek doesn’t need to be booked months in advance.
You can arrive in Cusco and book a tour for the next day. That’s how easy it is.
But I do not recommend this.
Every tour offers a different experience and itinerary. So don’t book with the first operator you come across.
If you’re worried about your fitness levels and the high altitude. Or if you’re questioning whether you will be able to finish the hike, I recommend opting for a smaller group tour like the one I did with Inkayni. You’ll enjoy the experience a lot more as you won’t feel rushed or pressured to walk faster.
Some Salkantay tours cater specifically to backpackers. This means you’ll be one of eighteen people in your group, the food won’t be anything to write home about, and you will have less one-on-one time with your guide.
If you’re doing the Salkantay Trek on a budget, this might be your best option.
Do your research
But I cannot stress the importance of researching before booking your tour.
I met a few travelers along the route who complained nonstop about the quality of their food and camping gear provided by their tour company. They also moaned that their guide’s English was not perfect.
I soon realized that they had paid next to nothing for their tour. I’m surprised they were even given food!
I don’t know how their guides and porters are expected to live off that measly amount, and I felt sorry for their trekking team.
If you’re paying for the cheapest tour, you cannot expect a five-star experience. I understand that not everyone has the budget, but you need to be realistic about what you’ll get from a cheaper operator.
Tips for the 5 day Salkantay Trek
- Check whether your tour includes Machu Picchu entrance tickets. If not, book this in advance and choose Circuit 2.
- Spend at least two nights in Cusco to acclimatize to the higher altitude.
- Rent hiking poles, as there are a lot of uphill and downhill sections.
- Tip your trekking team at least 10% of your total tour cost. While tipping is not mandatory, it is expected and means the world to the team.
How long does it take to hike the Salkantay Trek?
The classic Salkantay Trek is 5 days and covers a distance of 74 km. Trekking time is 6 to 7 hours per day, except on the last day when you’re exploring Machu Picchu.
Is the Salkantay Trek worth it?
Yes! The Salkantay Trek is a magnificent trek through the Peruvian Andes to Machu Picchu.
Is the Salkantay Trek harder than the Inca Trail?
The Salkantay Trek is harder than the Inca Trail as it is a much further hike and reaches a high altitude on day two.
Is the Salkantay Trek dangerous?
No, the Salkantay Trek isn’t dangerous. But you need to acclimatize properly to ensure you don’t get altitude sickness as you ascend the Salkantay Pass.
What’s the difference between 4 and 5 day Salkantay Trek?
On the 4 day Salkantay Trek, you take a bus to Hidroelectrica instead of walking. This means you skip Llactapata, which is an archaeological site overlooking Huayna Picchu Mountain.
My Salkantay Trek review
I loved the 5 day Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu.
It has everything you want from a multiday trek. Beautiful scenery where you’re immersed in nature. Challenging sections that will push you to your limits. Incredible archaeological sites that take you back in time. What more do you want?
The Salkantay Trek was one of the best things I did in Peru, and I highly recommend adding it to your itinerary.
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Do you have any questions about the 5 day Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu? Drop me a message in the comments section below!
Looking for more Peru travel inspiration? Check out my other posts!
- The Best Place to Visit the Amazon in Peru
- Laguna 69: Guide to The Best Day Hike in Peru
- How to Get to Laguna Paron in Huaraz
- Ultimate Guide to Laguna Llaca in Huaraz
Hi, I'm Carryn. I’m an adventure travel blogger trying to figure out my way through life by traveling and exploring. Join me as I share my travel guides and tips for life abroad. Find out more about me here .
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The Salkantay Trek: How to Hike to Machu Picchu
By Author Steph Dyson
Posted on Last updated: 20th February 2024
Hiking to Machu Picchu is a bucket-list destination for many. But what many visitors to Peru don’t realize is that there are far more options than just the Inca trail for reaching this world-famous Inca city tucked high into the Andes – such as my new favorite, the Salkantay trek to Machu Picchu.
The Inca trail is the most famous of all the hikes to Machu Picchu and follows the route of the Qhapaq Ñan or Royal Road. This Inca stone pathway weaves through valleys and across mountains to arrive at the Sun Gate, a doorway into Machu Picchu that sits high above the city.
But, for me, a fan of beyond-the-beaten-path destinations , it is the Salkantay trek that I’ve been long waiting to experience.
I’d been bewitched by the idea of hiking to Machu Picchu via this alternative route ever since I first lived in Cusco back in 2015. However, life got in the way and I never stepped foot on the path.
But this year, when Alpaca Expeditions asked me to join them on the Salkantay trail, I jumped at the chance. With the country now fully open to tourists (albeit numbers down to 30% of pre-pandemic levels), there has probably never been a better time to go to Machu Picchu, particularly as there are far fewer hikers on the trails than you would traditionally find.
Whether you’ve been dreaming about reaching Machu Picchu via this lesser-known route or have had to switch up your plans because the Inca trail is fully booked, here’s everything you need to know about hiking the Salkantay trek.
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Key facts about the Salkantay trek
How many miles is the salkantay trek.
The Salkantay is a roughly 66-kilometer (41-mile) hike that starts in the sleepy hamlet of Soraypampa and ends at Aguas Calientes, the town below Machu Picchu. There are various different routes that you can take, depending on how many days you want to walk and which company you’re hiking with. The most common route is the five-day, four-night route, whereby you leave Cusco around 4 am and start on the trail around 8 am, scaling the Salkantay Pass on day one and arrive in Aguas Calientes on the evening of day four to spend the final day at Machu Picchu. Alpaca Expeditions, like a handful of other companies, have their own glass-roofed huts at Soraypampa, where the trek begins. This means that they take their groups to the trailhead the day before (departing at 3 pm from Cusco) to allow you to start early and beat the other hikers to the trailhead. As a result, they advertise their trek as a five-day/five-night Salkantay hike. Their hikes also include the route up to Lago Humantay, which adds an extra three hundred meters of ascent and descent to the first day’s hike, plus the incredible scenery of this turquoise lake.
What is the elevation of the Salkantay trek?
The Salkantay trek starts at Soraypampa at an elevation of 3,900 meters above sea level. The elevation profile for the rest of the hike is as follows: Day One: Soraypampa (3,900 meters) – Humantay Lake (4,200 meters) – Soraypampa (3,900 meters) – Salkantay Pass (4,620 meters) – Wayramachay (3,800 meters) Distance covered: 20 kilometers (12.5 miles) Total elevation gain: 1,020 metres Total elevation loss: 1,120 metres Day Two: Wayramachay (3,800 metres) – Loreta (2,200 metres) Distance covered: 20 kilometers (12.5 miles) Total elevation gain: 200 metres Total elevation loss: 1,600 metres Day Three: Loreta (2,200 meters) – Llactapata (2,700 meters) Distance covered: 12 kilometers (8.7 miles) Total elevation gain: 600 meters Total elevation loss: 400 meters Day Four: Llactapata (2,700 meters) – Hidroelectrica (1,820 meters) – Aguas Calientes (2,000 meters) Distance covered: 15 kilometers (9.3 miles) Total elevation gain: 180 meters Total elevation loss: 880 metres The first night sleeping at altitude you’re inside a cabin, with a sleeping bag (either your own or rented) and it’s pretty cozy. The second night was also at altitude and despite the sleeping bag, extra blankets, two sleeping mats, and hot water bottle that Alpaca provided, I was still a bit cold and ended up sleeping in my down jacket. I highly recommend bringing a down jacket (mine is this one from Jack Wolfskin but you can find plenty of down jackets at REI ) plus a waterproof coat (mine is this one from Patagonia ; for men from Patagonia | REI | Backcountry ). They did give us rain ponchos but frankly, any sort of plastic coat is a recipe for sweaty hiking, so I much prefer to have a breathable, lightweight coat that’s great as a windproof layer at high elevations and also as protection against any downpours.
How fit do I need to be to hike the Salkantay trek?
The Salkantay trek is a moderate hike. The challenge comes from the amount of ascent and distance you’re required to cover on day one, as well as the altitude at which you’re hiking. The toughest day by far is day one. Not only do you gain 300 metres to reach the dazzling waters of Lago Humantay, but you lose them again as you drop back off the mountain and then climb a further 720 metres to reach the Salkantay Pass. Because you’re hiking at altitude, it won’t be long until you realise how thin the air feels (and how little of it seems to be going into your lungs). If you’re relatively fit and can cope with covering 20 kilometres (12.5 miles) in a day, you shouldn’t have any issues. Many of my group who had flown straight from home to Peru and hadn’t had time to acclimate beforehand in Cusco for a couple of days really struggled with the first day of the trek. Therefore I strongly recommend spending at least two days in Cusco before the hike for acclimatisation purposes and also speaking to your doctor to get a prescription for Diamox – tablets that help your body cope at high altitudes. You’ll want to take the tablets once per day, starting 24 hours before you start the trek and continuing until day three when you won’t need them anymore.
How can you prepare for the high-altitude Salkantay trek?
While being moderately fit and physically able to walk at least 20 kilometers (12.5 miles) at lower elevations is essential, preparing for high-altitude trekking is challenging. This is because you can’t predict how your body will react when it’s faced with these conditions – particularly as it’s not impacted by how fit, young, or healthy you are. In fact, even the fittest people can suffer horrible altitude sickness. As a result, the best preparation for hiking the Salkantay trek is to arrive in Cusco at least two days before the trek begins to give your body time to acclimate. Get plenty of sleep, stay hydrated, and be sure to get some Diamox to help your body adjust.
Do I need to book the Salkantay trek months in advance like the Inca trail?
Unlike the Inca trail, where there is a limit of 400 trekkers per day and so tickets can be sold out up to six months in advance, there are no limits for the Salkantay trek. This makes it an excellent alternative if you’ve been hoping to hike the Inca trail but have found that there isn’t any space. The only restriction you’ll face is on the availability of entry tickets to Machu Picchu, so it’s still worth trying to book at least a few weeks in advance, particularly if you’re traveling between June and August. As a result, you’ll find it a good idea to book your trek in advance before you arrive in Peru; you can also check out what we think are the best times to visit Machu Picchu before deciding when to travel. Better still, while an unlimited number of hikers allowed on the trailhead doesn’t sound fun, if you trek with Alpaca Expeditions, you’ll likely not see anyone else. This is because they schedule the trek to avoid all of the other tours leaving from Soraypampa. Through this wizardry, during the entirety of the five-day trek, we met only six other hikers.
The five-day Salkantay trek to Machu Picchu
The Inca trail is famous for taking you along a stretch of the Qhapaq Ñan or Royal Road, a path used by Inca royalty as well as pilgrims and other administrators to travel between Cusco and Machu Picchu.
However, what you probably didn’t know is that the Salkantay actually travels along a stretch of Inca road on day three, allowing you to have a little bit of the same experience, just without sharing it with anyone else.
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The scenery is also spectacular and involves a little bit of each of the microclimates that are found surrounding Cusco, and which pay host to everything from spectacled bears (the inspiration for Paddington!) to llamas, alpacas, condors and vizcachas (chinchilla-like rodents).
You travel from high mountain passes to lush cloud forest in just over a day, while you’re always far enough away from towns and villages to have gorgeous starry skies at night.
Want a cheeky 5% discount on the Salkantay trek?
Alpaca Expeditions are not only one of the most sustainable companies offering Salkantay and Inca trail treks to Machu Picchu, but their guides, porters and chefs are the ultimate hosts.
They’re now offering Worldly Adventurer readers a 5% discount on all of their hikes – use discount code WorldlyAdventurer when you enquire!
Best of all, unlike on the Inca trail, you don’t share campgrounds with other groups. In fact, we saw only six other hikers from when we started the hike to when we reached Hidroelectrica and began the final trek along the railway line. Therefore, if you’re like me and prefer hiking in destinations where you aren’t surrounded by others, this is the perfect route for you.
But what’s the hike like day by day? Here’s an itinerary of what you can expect on the Salkantay trek.
Day Minus One: Pre-trek information session
- Distance hiked: 0
- Total elevation gain: 0
- Total elevation loss: 0
- Time on the trail: 0
I started my Salkantay trek experience two days before we actually started hiking. This is because Alpaca Expeditions invited all of my group to their office in Cusco for a short information session to go over everything we needed to know before we started the hike.
It was a quick, 15-minute meeting with our guide, Isao, where we were given our lime green duffel bags (for up to seven kilograms of clothes and other items for the hike that would be taken on mules), bright green rain ponchos and rucksack rain covers.
We were also able to reserve a sleeping bag, sleeping mat and trekking poles at this stage, while they made recommendations for essentials we needed to bring (bug spray – bring plenty!).
If I’d been sensible and brought some with me, I would have started taking Diamox this evening or on day zero to help prepare my body for the altitude. Don’t be like me: I highly recommend discussing Diamox or similar with your doctor if you’re planning a short trip to Peru to hike the Salkantay. This is because going directly from sea level to an altitude of up to 4,620 metres (15,157 ft) can be extremely dangerous – trust me: you don’t want to feel as shit as those people in my group who did this.
Day Zero: Cusco to Soyrapampa
On day zero you’ll have time for a relaxed morning and lunch in Cusco, before you’re picked up at your hotel by the Alpaca Expeditions team around 3pm. The minibus will head directly out of Cusco for the spectacular drive through the Andes to the first night’s accommodation.
It’s three and a half hours of serpentine roads with sheer, vertiginous roadsides and lush valleys lined with avocado plants. Keep your eyes peeled for the first glimpses of Nevada Salkantay; we saw it sink into darkness as the sun set behind its snow-laden peak before our van began gaining altitude quickly.
After about two and a half hours you’ll stop in Mollepata, a tiny town en route, to use the toilets and then stock up on any remaining items you might have forgotten, before an hour later reaching the first night’s accommodation: Soraypampa and its glass-roofed cabins.
If luck’s on your side, the stars should be bright and your chef, sous chef and their merry band of porters will quickly rustle up a delicious two-course meal, giving you plenty of time to head to bed and sleep beneath the stars before an early wake-up call the next morning.
Day One: Soraypampa – Humantay Lake – Salkantay Pass – Wayracmachay
- Distance hiked: 20 kilometers (12.5 miles)
- Total elevation gain: 1,020 meters (3,346 feet)
- Total elevation loss: 1,120 meters (3,674 feet)
- Time on the trail: Around six hours, plus lunch and breaks
Day one starts early. At 4.30 am, you’ll be woken up by a knock at the door. For us, it was by Juan Carlos, our second guide, bearing coca tea (coca leaves infused in water) to help settle heads and stomachs from any potential altitude sickness.
While there are flushing toilets at this accommodation, showers there are not, but your guides will ensure you have hot water for washing hands and faces at every mealtime along the trek.
There will be time for a filling breakfast – omelets, pancakes, cereal, and bread – and to pick up snacks and water ready for the day. Today will be the hardest of the entire trek – there’s no gentle first day to ease you into it – so eat plenty and stay hydrated. You’ll need all the energy you can get.
At this stage, your body, with the help of Diamox, should be starting to acclimatize to the altitude and be ready for the two-hour climb up to Lago Humantay. Mine felt ok, but as we began the trek, climbing a gentle gravel road that became a steep trail as it emerged out of the valley and up to the shores of Lago Humantay, my lungs were burning and the effort of hiking was already beginning to feel like a challenge.
At the top, there’s time to relax, take copious photos, and dive into your snacks, before you head back down the way you came, joining the main Salkantay trail back at the bottom of the valley.
For us, we began the ascent to the Salkantay Pass around 10 am, relieved to discover that the other groups of hikers for that day’s walk were long gone, leaving us the trail to ourselves as we passed meadows filled with llamas and then the barren slopes of Nevada Salkantay.
Keep your eyes peeled for stone-colored vizcachas hiding in the rocks alongside the trail; these chinchilla-like rodents live in this otherwise empty landscape.
After a further 4.5 hours, and about an hour from the top, you should arrive at your first lunch: prepare to be amazed by what your chef and porters can put together, despite being miles from civilization.
Our chef, Sergio, his sous chef, and porters had prepared us an extensive lunch of roast chicken, salads, rice, and plenty of vegetables to help give us enough energy to get over the pass. If you’re lucky and well acclimatized, you’ll be feeling extremely hungry right now, so fill your boots and also have a good few cups of coca tea – they’ll help stave off any incoming headache.
From lunch, it’s a thankfully short final hour to reach the Salkantay Pass. At 4,620 metres above sea level (15,157 feet) and in the shadows of snow-capped Salkantay, it’s the highest point on the trek and you deserve to celebrate here.
We followed Quechua traditions and made an offering to the Apus (the Gods of the mountains) of some coca leaves given to us by our guide, Isao, while making three wishes. I’m fairly certain at least a few members of the group were wishing to get out of there quickly!
After the pass, it’s a long, two-hour hike down the camp, through the quickly changing scenery that passes from barren rock to become a verdant river valley flushed with powder blue lupins. It’s a dramatic contrast between the hike up and the scenery as you come down.
When you arrive, finally, at Wayracmachay, your first camp on the trek, your camp fairies (aka the porters, chef, and sous chef) will have been busy preparing the camp. Our tents had been filled with our mats and sleeping bags, plus the welcome addition of fluffy alpaca blankets and, when it was finally time for bed, some extremely welcome hot water bottles. You’ll find flushing toilets, but no showers, here, too.
Dinner will be another feast of hearty, filling Peruvian food that’ll put you to sleep early, ready for another pre-dawn start.
Day Two: Wayracmachay – Colpapampa – Loreta
- Total elevation gain: 200 meters (656 feet)
- Total elevation loss: 1,600 meters (5,249 feet)
- Time on the trail: Around seven hours, plus lunch and breaks
Today, you’ll rise before dawn again, ready for a big breakfast of pancakes, omelet, bread, and the obligatory coca tea to help you start the day.
While day two of the Salkantay trek is as long as day one, the vast majority of the trail is downhill, so you’ll find it much less taxing.
From Wayracmachay, it’s a gentle downhill hike along a gravel path. As a group, we had decided that downhill sounded too boring for the day (!) so Isao and Juan Carlos took us off-piste to climb another hill (just 100 meters of ascent this time).
By this stage, the scenery had changed dramatically, and we’d dropped far enough down to find ourselves in thick, lush cloud forest, filled with butterflies and bromeliads suspended from the trees.
If your guides offer you this detour, I strongly suggest taking it. The payoff for climbing this extra hill is some seriously incredible views back across the valley towards Salkantay and then down into the next valley, where lunch and your accommodation for the night are located.
The views change by the second; the clouds move rapidly as the valley and the mountains beyond appear and disappear in turn.
From this incredible vantage point, it’s a steep downhill – through cloud forest thick with orchids and hummingbirds to finally hit the road beneath and lunch at Colpapampa. For us, it was mango ceviche followed by mountains of lomo saltado , vegetables, salads and rice.
The final few hours to reach your accommodation are along a flat gravel road that follows the Rio Salkantay as it weaves through the valley.
Finally, you’ll descend down an incredibly steep path to reach your home for the night: Alpaca Expeditions’ very own hobbit holes, complete with lime green, round front doors, and comfy beds. There are even hot showers available and, the pièce de résistance : jacuzzis.
We saluted a long but incredible day with some cervezas (beers) and even a small pisco sour prepared unexpectedly for us by our chef, Sergio. It’s fair to say we slept like babies – you will too.
Day Three: Loreta – Lucmabamba – Llactapata
- Distance hiked: 14 kilometers (8.7 miles)
- Total elevation gain: 600 meters (1,968 feet)
- Total elevation loss: 400 meters (1,312 feet)
- Time on the trail: Around five and a half hours, plus lunch and breaks
Day three starts with a gentle walk through a clutch of villages tucked into the cloud forest, where you’ll meet the resident dogs, chickens, and any other livestock that’s wandering around.
Today will be a fairly relaxed day and give you the opportunity to hike a stretch of the Inca trail that clambers up through lush forest and coffee plantations and, for some parts, still consists of worn stone steps.
As you climb this five-hundred-year-old stone staircase into the mountains, you’ll realize quite how relieved you are that you didn’t do the Inca trail. It’s tough going on your thighs (perhaps even more so than the climb up to the Salkantay Pass), but a fairly gentle incline up to lunch at a coffee farm, where you’ll also have the chance to pick, toast, and grind your own steaming cup of Joe alongside the owner, Paulina.
Support sustainable tourism, porters’ rights and female empowerment by booking the Salkantay trek with Alpaca Expeditions and get a 5% discount on the cost of the hike by using discount code WorldlyAdventurer!
Your chef will also give a demonstration about cooking a traditional Peruvian dish (in our case lomo saltado , with fake meat for the vegetarians), before you dine again like kings, with incredible views across the valley.
In the afternoon, it’s a tough, sweaty climb up, up and up, although you’ll take plenty of breaks and have the chance to enjoy the pretty flowers and picturesque valley views that characterise this part of the hike.
After around three and a half hours of walking, you’ll finally reach the brow of the hill, from where it’s a short hike down to Llactapata.
An Inca site, it sits across the valley from Machu Picchu – the Inca liked to be able to see this city from other parts of their Empire – which you can see in the distance. It’s here that you’ll suddenly realize just how far you’ve come and how close you are to the end of the hike.
After half an hour learning a little about this site, which would have acted as a waystation for the chaskis (the messengers of the Inca, who ran along the Inca roads delivering messages across the Empire), it’s a 20-minute hike down the mountain to reach perhaps the most surreal of you campsites.
Offering even closer views of Machu Picchu from its lofty position, the campground below Llactapata is the most remarkable of the whole trip. It’s possible to spend hours here, watching as the sun slips away past the mountains in the west and bathes the Cordillera de Vilcabamba in which Machu Picchu lies in gentle evening light.
If you can tear yourself away from the view, you’ll be delighted to learn that after a sweaty day’s hike there are hot showers at this campsite (costing around S/10), and mountains of food to help you sleep soundly.
Because you’re still far away from any towns, there’s very little light pollution, so if the skies are clear, you can expect a sensational view of the Milky Way and the night sky.
Day Four: Llactapata – Hidroeléctrica – Aguas Calientes
- Distance covered: 15 kilometers (9.3 miles)
- Total elevation gain: 180 meters (590 feet)
- Total elevation loss: 880 meters (2,887 feet)
You’ll wake early again today in time to eat breakfast as the sun’s rays climb above Machu Picchu and bathe you in their glorious light.
There will be time to enjoy the views while your team packs up camp and you should be on the trail by about 7 am, for a snaking, tough-on-the-knees, steep climb down the mountain and along the Río Ahobamba to reach Hidraelectrica, the hydropower station that produces electricity for Aguas Calientes and Machu Picchu itself.
Here you stop for a final leisurely lunch with your porters and cooking team, before it’s time to bid them farewell and continue along the side of the railway line that connects Hidroeléctrica with Aguas Calientes and beyond, Ollantaytambo.
While the hike itself is hot and sweaty and feels like you’re starring in the film Stand By Me (yes, you do need to keep an eye out for trains as it’s a functioning railway line – although they do tend to make an awful lot of noise on the approach to allow you to get out of the way), it takes you through the deep mountain canyon that is the Urubamba Valley, with the dramatic steep valley sides rising high above you.
Along the way, you’ll find the occasional shops operated by those who live in houses dotted along the railway line, where you can pick up snacks of fresh watermelon or ice-cold drinks.
It’s around 10 kilometers (six miles) along the railway line and a three-hour hike. Finally, you’ll reach the edges of Aguas Calientes, the small but picturesque town that sits beneath the Inca city.
Here, you’ll be checked into your hotel and have some downtime to explore the town or just take a long, hot shower, before heading out for dinner with your group.
Day Five: Machu Picchu
- Distance hiked: Depends; the path around Machu Picchu is a couple of miles
- Total elevation gain: Roughly 10-20 meters (32-65 feet)
- Total elevation loss: Roughly 10-20 meters (32-65 feet)
- Time on the trail: Depends; around three hours if just exploring the site. Add a further two hours if hiking to Huyana Picchu.
Today’s the day you’ve been waiting for: Machu Picchu. To get on the first bus up to Machu Picchu, you’ll wake around 4.30 am and aim to be at the bus stop by 5.30 am, read when it leaves.
It’s a 30-minute drive up to the entrance and definitely worth taking the bus (the tickets are included in the cost of your tour): the walk looked exhausting and takes at least two hours.
At the top, your guide will show your tickets and you’ll climb the final few steps of Inca stone up into Machu Picchu, a former summer retreat for the Inca emperor and a remarkable example of Inca architecture.
At the viewpoint at the top of the site, if the weather’s clear, you can watch as the sun rises over the mountains, showering the stone buildings and Huayna Picchu, the mountain that sits behind, with morning light.
If it’s not clear, don’t worry: when we arrived, it was cloudy, but the weather came and went quickly, giving us good opportunities for capturing photographs and absorbing the surreal feeling of standing above Machu Picchu.
In total, you will have around three or four hours in Machu Picchu, which will involve a guided tour by your guide to learn more about life in Machu Picchu, the architecture and the key buildings dotted around.
Since the pandemic, they’ve introduced a very strict route around the site, so you don’t have as much opportunity to explore as you once had. However, it definitely felt like plenty of time for visiting and learning more about the Inca Empire.
If you want to hike up Huayna Picchu, this will take around two hours and you can expect an alternative view of the site from the top. As my tour was booked quite last-minute, I didn’t manage to get these tickets (it’s recommended to buy them at least a couple of months in advance as they sell out; book them here selecting “Circuito 4 + Waynapicchu”), but other members of my group highly recommended it. The path up is very steep, so definitely not for the faint of heart.
Around noon, you’ll catch the bus back down to Aguas Calientes for a final lunch. This wasn’t included in our tour, but there are plenty of restaurants within the town. I recommend Chullos Craft Beer & Homemade Food for great local food and beautiful views of the river.
Early afternoon, you’ll board the train to Ollantaytambo, a stunning, two-hour journey that takes you along the Urubamba Valley and, thanks to the train’s large windows, gives you dazzling views of the surroundings.
At the station in Ollantaytambo, a bus will be waiting to take you back to Cusco, a final two-hour journey through the mountains. Be sure to have your accommodation booked ready for you when you in the town. You’ll be exhausted but still reeling from an incredible six days!
Preparing for the Salkantay trek
When to travel to cusco and machu picchu.
Unlike the Inca trail, which needs to be booked at least six months in advance, the Salkantay is a trek that can be organised with a lot less advance notice. This is because permits are not required to hike along this trail; instead, you’ll just need to make sure you’ve got a ticket for Machu Picchu.
That said, if you’re planning on visiting between the peak months of May and September, you’ll likely need to reserve this trek at least a few weeks in advance to ensure that there’s time for the company to book Machu Picchu tickets for your dates.
It’s possible to hike the Salkantay trek all year round, but for the best conditions (and to get those iconic views at Machu Picchu on the final day), try to avoid the rainy season, which is between November and February.
Alpaca Expeditions do run this trek from the start of March through the middle of January, but as someone who has lived in Cusco and knows how hard it can rain here, I imagine trekking during the rainy months would be a very soggy experience.
Choosing a sustainable and ethical tour company
One of the main reasons I chose to hike with Alpaca Expeditions is because of their attitude towards their staff. They pay some of the highest wages for porters and guides; the minimum wage for porters by law is S/44 per day, while Alpaca pays them S/180 per day.
As many of their staff come from indigenous and often poor Andean villages scattered across the region, Alpaca Expeditions have also built a house in Ollantaytambo where their staff can stay the night before or after a trek, with its own resident doctor offering them healthcare.
What’s more, due to limits on entering Machu Picchu, porters who accompany groups of hikers aren’t allowed to enter the site, and many can’t afford the expense of visiting Machu Picchu on their own dime. This means many have spent years hiking to Machu Picchu but have never actually gone in.
To address this injustice, Alpaca Expeditions take groups of their porters, chefs, guides and their families to Machu Picchu twice a year, ensuring that all of their staff can experience the culture of their ancestors and learn about their own history.
Alpaca Expeditions are also leading the way when it comes to female employment. They were the first tour company to introduce female guides (2017) and then porters (2018) onto the Inca trail and now have women working in every role on the trek and in their office, with an aim to employ an equal number of men and women in the future.
They’re also doing some amazing work to allow local communities to visit sites such as Machu Picchu, as well as the archaeological sites of Pisac, Ollantaytambo and others in the Sacred Valley .
To achieve this, every Sunday they pay to take a group of 15-17 local children from Cusco or surrounding villages to visit some of these sites and learn more about their heritage, ensuring that they have the same access to their history as the thousands of tourists who explore the region each day.
I followed along for one of these days and it was wonderful to see the kids soaking everything in and even getting to experience the incredible Alpaca Expeditions outdoors lunch, too!
All in all, I found the experience on the trail with Alpaca Expeditions to be even better than I had expected. Their staff are absolute heroes: our guides were good-humoured and extremely supportive when the going got tough on the first day and the rest of our team of chefs and porters ensured that every single meal and camp felt like we’d stepped into our own private resort, no matter how remote the location.
The cost of hiking the Salkantay trek
The cost of the trek varies depending on the company with whom you go. Alpaca Expeditions isn’t the cheapest and nor is it the most expensive. They offer the five-day/five-night tour that I did at a cost of just $650 USD per person and you can potentially have a group size of up to 16 people. We had nine in ours and it felt like a really comfortable size.
They also commit to running a hike even if they just have two people signed up, which means you’re less likely to get your tour cancelled if they don’t manage to sell other tickets.
To secure your place on the trek, you will need to make a deposit of $400 USD per person either through PayPal (who’ll charge a 5.5% PayPal fee) or by wire to Bank of America or Citibank (free if you bank with either of these companies). Therefore, it’s worth being aware that the trek may well cost a little more when you’ve factored in the transfer cost.
Alcohol isn’t included in the cost of the hike but there are places en route where you can buy beers, ranging from a cheap S/5 to a more eye-watering S/20. If you think you’ll want a cold cerveza to celebrate a long day’s hiking, then bring extra soles (small notes preferably as change can be an issue) with you.
Tipping on the Salkantay trek
Before departing for the trek, it’s important to budget into your trip the cost of tipping. While it’s certainly not obligatory, tipping was brought up quite a few times during the hike and our guide made recommendations for the amount of money we should consider tipping per person.
This worked out around S/50 soles per porter (we had four for a group of nine people), $20 USD for both the chef and sous chef, and $40 USD each for our guides.
It’s worth bearing in mind that there’s often a limit of around S/750 soles (around $200 USD) per day that you can withdraw from ATMs in Cusco, so it might be sensible to bring dollars with you for tipping purposes if you also need to withdraw cash to pay for your tour when you arrive.
Another area to consider when it comes to hiking costs is whether your travel insurance covers hiking up to 4,600 metres.
My travel insurance with World Nomads * required me to pay for additional coverage up to their level three (camping up to 4,500 metres and hiking up to 6,000 metres), which cost an additional $75.33 for my two-week trip to Peru.
Packing for the Salkantay trek
If you book before you arrive in Cusco, you should get sent a packing list covering what they recommend you bring. In short, it includes:
- Your passport. You will need to show the original document to get into Machu Picchu. Don’t forget it, otherwise the hiking will have been in vain!
- A day pack. I brought my Osprey 40-litre pack ( REI | Amazon | Osprey ), which comfortably fitted my camera, down jacket, waterproof coat and a couple of other bits and pieces for the day. You could comfortably get away with carrying a 25-litre or 30-litre pack, as the majority of your belongings go into your duffel bag that’s carried by mule.
- A cosy sleeping bag. You can actually hire one of these for $25 USD for the duration of the trek, so unless you’re particularly attached to your own, then it’s probably easier to just pay this cost. I found the one I rented to be warm and comfortable. I generally recommend the Nemo Disco 15 for women ( REI ) and men ( REI ) if you want to buy one.
- Air mattress. Again, this can be rented for $25 USD. If you want to buy your own, I recommend this one from Therm-a-Rest ( REI | Amazon | Backcountry )
- Trekking poles. I made the mistake of turning these down when I was offered to rent them. Don’t be like me. They’re really helpful for the first day in getting you up the Salkantay Pass and absolutely ESSENTIAL in helping you get back down. Rent them for $25 USD or buy these lightweight ones ( REI | Amazon | Backcountry ).
- Well-broken-in hiking boots. I can’t stress enough how important it is that you wear hiking shoes that you’ve used before on this trek. Days are long and there’s absolutely nothing worse than getting a bad blister on the first day. All of the downhill can also wreak havoc with your toenails, so they need to be comfortable. I’m a convert of Salomon (women’s: REI | Amazon | Backcountry ; men’s: REI | Amazon | Backcountry )
- Five pairs of walking socks. Seriously, you need a clean pair for each day. I recommend Darn Tough socks (women’s: REI | Amazon | Darn Tough ; men’s: REI | Amazon | Darn Tough )
- Sandals. These are for the evenings when you’ll want to allow your feet to breathe. I love my Teva sandals (women’s: REI | Amazon | Backcountry ; men’s: REI | Amazon | Backcountry )
- Warm clothing. A down jacket (I wear this one from Jack Wolfskin; you can find plenty of others at REI ) and a lightweight waterproof coat (mine is this one from Patagonia ; for men from Patagonia | REI | Backcountry ) are essentials for this trek. I also had a midweight walking jumper and a fleece jumper (women’s: REI | Amazon | Backcountry ; men’s: REI | Amazon | Backcountry ).
- Two or three pairs of hiking trousers. You want lightweight trousers that won’t be too hot for the warmer days. I like these ones from prAna ( REI | Amazon | Backcountry )
- Long-sleeved hiking tops. I didn’t bring any of these and it was a mistake. Not only do they protect you from the sun (which is fierce at this altitude) but they can protect you from the mosquitos, too. We only really encountered these a little bit in the evening at Loreta (day three) and during the hike through the cloud forest on day four.
- Headlamp. This is essential for the camps, as many of them don’t have electricity. You don’t want to trip over and injure yourself when going to the bathroom in the middle of the night. I recommend this one .
- Camera. This hike is incredibly photogenic, so make sure you’ve got a couple of spare batteries for your camera. I travel with the Sony A7iii , an 18-135 lens and a spare battery.
- Phone charger and adapter plug. There is electricity on days zero, three and five. I use this universal adapter plug .
- A sunhat and sunglasses. Don’t burn your head or hurt your eyes.
- Mosquito repellent. You will want this for evenings on days three onwards and at Machu Picchu. I use Sawyer insect repellent ( REI | Amazon )
- Dry sacks. While Alpaca did give us plastic bags that we could put our clothes into to protect them from the rain in transit, I prefer to travel with a couple of dry sacks ( REI | Amazon ), as they’re reusable and more environmentally friendly!
Other options for hiking to Machu Picchu
Still not sure which is the right hike for you? Here’s a round-up of the other treks that can get you to Machu Picchu.
The Inca trail
- Length: 48 kilometers (29.8 miles)
- Hiking time: Four days/three nights
- Cost: From $695 USD
The best-known trek of all, the classic Inca trail is a four-day, three-night trek up and down the stone pathway of the Inca, stopping at a handful of other Inca sites before arriving at Machu Picchu at dawn on the fourth and final day through the Sun Gate.
This is the only trek that allows you to approach the site through this entrance and have the first dawn views of Machu Picchu.
Read all about the Inca trail to Machu Picchu for more information about this trek and this comparison of the Inca Trail and the Salkantay to learn the key differences.
It’s also possible to extend this trip to five days/four nights to allow you to take a slower approach to the hike (perfect if you’re traveling with your kids), or do a shortened version of the Inca trail if you’ve got less time but still want to hike this fabled road.
You can even combine a bit of Salkantay with the Inca trail for a seven-day/six-night adventure .
The Inca Jungle trek
- Length: 89 kilometers (55.30 miles)
- Cost: From $450 USD
Keen to visit Machu Picchu but want to get your adrenaline pumping even more? The Inca Jungle trek is a route that combines mountain biking, rafting, hiking along sections of the Inca trail, and even ziplining.
It’s not a trip organised by Alpaca Expeditions but there are other companies based out of Cusco who do.
The Lares trek
- Length: 33 kilometers (20.5 miles)
- Cost: From $600 USD
Perhaps the least-known of the three main treks to Machu Picchu, the Lares is another alternative route that takes you through Andean villages around the Sacred Valley, where you’ll soak in natural hot springs and climb up into the mountains to a 4,680-metre (15,354-foot) pass.
Considered a little easier, slower-paced, and much shorter than the Salkantay and the Inca trail, it’s a good option for families, as well as those who aren’t sure about their fitness levels! Alpaca Expeditions have a four-day/three-night itinerary .
The Choquequirao trek
- Length: 100 kilometers (62 miles)
- Hiking time: Nine days/eight nights
- Cost: From $1,250 USD
For the really adventurous, the trek to Machu Picchu via Choquequirao is a truly once-in-a-lifetime experience. Taking you first to the archeological site of Choquequirao, a mountaintop series of Inca buildings that is only visited by a handful of tourists and where you can camp just beneath, you then continue to Machu Picchu, combining two of the region’s finest Inca cities.
The hike has plenty of uphill to reach Choquequirao and is a long slog: 100 kilometres (62 miles) in total.
We’ve got information about hiking it independently in this guide to hiking to Choquequirao , while Alpaca Expeditions offer a shortened six days/five nights version of the trek .
I was a guest of Alpaca Expeditions on this tour, but the experiences, opinions and unfettered enjoyment of the trip are my very own. I don’t promote tours or experiences that I don’t believe to be 100% sustainable, ethical or high-quality.
* World Nomads provides travel insurance for travelers in over 100 countries. As an affiliate, we receive a fee when you get a quote from World Nomads using this link. We do not represent World Nomads. This is information only and not a recommendation to buy travel insurance.
Wednesday 4th of October 2023
Thanks for the article Steph! I would like to give a tip to your readers. If you buy the 5-day Salkantay trek online you pay anywhere between $500 - $700. On the other hand, if you simply walk in to the many tour agencies around Cuzco's Central Plaza (Plaza de Armas), you can get the same trek for between $250 - $300. Everything included. I walked into a few agencies and they were all around the same price. Seriously. I'm not trying to be an A-hole, just trying to save your readers some money. And you don't even need to wait for a spot. I walked into the tour agency and I was on the trail two days later. So my advice is...don't buy it online. Wait until you get to Cuzco and buy it in the agency. Just saying :)
Steph Dyson
Thursday 23rd of November 2023
Hi Gabriel, yes that definitely is an option. However, there's no guarantee the quality of the company you're travelling with and there are some pretty rubbish companies in Cusco who go for low prices and high tourist numbers without any consideration towards quality. Steph
Taylor Nelson
Saturday 3rd of June 2023
Great article Steph! Stoked we were part of your group and you captured the experience magnificently. Arriba, abajo, al centro, sexy movimiento, ADENTRO!
Monday 5th of June 2023
Thanks so much Taylor! I think I captured a lot of photos of the pair of you in the distance as you marched on at incredible speed😉It was great to share the experience with you! Steph
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These excursions will show you a different side of Peru that is just as extraordinary and breathtaking. With us, you'll experience exceptional hospitality and personal attention to detail as our passionate and professional guides share the best parts of Peru.
Llacto - Vinicunca
Rainbow mountain full day.
Surprise yourself with a destination like no other: Rainbow Mountain! Vinicunca Mountain offers you a dream-like landscape with the colors of the rainbow all stacked on top of one another for you to see like a multicolor mantle or a reflection of a rainbow on Earth. Vinicunca can be admired all year-round.
Soraypampa - Humantay Lake
Humantay lake full day tour.
Discover the gem that is the lake, which gathers water from the glacier sitting atop. The Humantay is a 5,473 meters (17,956 ft) mountain in the Vilcabamba Range in the Andes of Peru. Hiking to Humantay Lake is undoubtedly one of the best one-day trips you can do from Cusco, Peru.
Piskacucho - Wiñaywayna - Machu Picchu
Machu picchu full day tour.
Named one of the New 7 wonders of the world, considered one of the most important energy centers in the world, and an iconic, world-renowned tourist destination, Machu Picchu, awaits to captivate you with its splendor!
Poroy - Ollantaytambo - Machu Picchu
Machu picchu by train 2 days.
Our tour begins on one of the most incredible train trips in the entire world. The rails follow the path of the Urubamba River towards the cloud forest that surrounds Machu Picchu.
Suggested Peru Destinations
Discover machu picchu and cusco alongside the country's finest travel guides..
Peru offers world-class tourist attractions, with mysterious archaeological sites, awe-inspiring landscapes and diverse wildlife. In this vast and storied land, ancient, colonial, and modern traditions meld together for an unforgettable cultural experience. No matter the type of traveler—history buff, adventurer, or foodie—Peru offers a myriad of activities to satisfy every appetite.
Choquequirao
Cusco, peru, huchuy qosqo, inca jungle, travel that gives back, everything from one source.
There's a reason why so many people recommend our adventure holidays.
Community Support
Supporting the livelihoods of the people in our destinations.
Yuraq Quirucha
Dental Care Education
Learning Spaces
Educational support and mentorship
Ecological Campsites
Sustainable Tourism
Reforestation Project
Increase green areas
Environment Responsibility
Improve the cleanliness of the Salkantay route and its surroundings
Frecuently Asked Questions
The most frecuently asked questions at salkantay trekking, how do you prevent altitude sickness in cusco.
The best way to prevent altitude sickness in Cusco is to be prepared. During your first 2 days you should take things easy. This means you shouldn’t take part in any strenuous activity. You should rest a lot and drink plenty of water. Alcohol and smoking isn’t a good idea as it can agitate you and make you feel a lot worse.
Do you need altitude sickness tablets for Cusco?
How to avoid altitude sickness in peru.
You can avoid altitude sickness by spending a few days taking it easy in Cusco before you head off on any kind of trek. Trying to do a tough activity too soon could make you very ill. You should also eat lightly and avoid alcohol to feel your best.
What is the best trek to Machu Picchu?
There’s no definite answer to this as there are many options. The Inca Trail is the most popular and needs to be booked months in advance as there are only a certain number of spots each day. The best alternative trek is considered to be Salkantay, which offers a real adventure and fantastic scenery. Inca Jungle is great for those seeking a thrill and Lares is a top option if you want a quieter and more rural experience. If you have a lot of time and want to experience two incredible Inca sites, you can opt for the Choquequirao trek.
Which is better Inca Trail or Salkantay trail?
This depends on the individual who wants to trek. The Inca Trail is extremely popular as it takes you along the real trail where the Incas once walked. However, many say that the scenery on Salkantay is more beautiful. For this reason we would say go for the Inca Trail if you’re a real history lover and like to hike well-known treks, but go for Salkantay if you want to witness stunning landscapes and a variety of different climates.
Is the Salkantay Trek Dangerous?
The trek isn’t dangerous. You’re with fully qualified guides all the way to make sure you always stay on track. They are there to help you if you feel sick at all along the way. The path can be uneven, but if you take it slowly, you’ll have no issues. During wet season, November to April, you’ll have to take more care when you walk to avoid slipping.
Is the Salkantay Trek hard?
The trek is moderately challenging. This means that most people will be able to complete it if they are well-prepared. Most of the trek isn’t too challenging. It’s just the second day where you walk up to the Salkantay pass. You’ll trek for a total of 10 hours that day. What makes this trek difficult is the high altitude at which you hike and the different terrains as well as changing climate.
How high is the Salkantay Pass?
The Salkantay Pass sits at 4,600 masl.
How cold is the Salkantay trek?
Along the trail you’ll experience a lot of different climates. You’ll need to pack for the cold on the first two days. The first night will get below zero, so you need to make sure you have warm clothing and an excellent sleeping bag.
Do you need a permit for the Salkantay trek?
You don’t need a permit for the Salkantay trek. You do need to pay S/10 upon entering, but this doesn’t need to be reserved in advance, meaning that there is always space available.
How can I prepare for Salkantay Trek?
To prepare for trekking at high altitudes we recommend you start to prepare a few weeks before. You should start a fitness regime that includes daily stretching and exercises, particularly for your legs. We recommend taking hikes at home weekly before you come to do the trail.
What helps altitude sickness in Cusco?
If you do feel sick, there are a few things you can try. One is to speak to your doctor before you come to see if you can get a prescription for pills to help. These can also be bought in pharmacies in Cusco. Other helpful ways are to drink coca or muna (Andean mint) tea, which have been in use since the Inca times. Small oxygen bottles are also available in pharmacies and can really help.
What are the coldest months in Cusco Peru?
The coldest months in Cusco are from May to July. During this time the sun is strong in the day, but once it goes down or you spend much time in the shade, it can get very cold. It can go below zero at night, so warm clothes are a must during these months.
What is the best month to go to Machu Picchu?
The best month in all the year is October. The climate is just right and the sky is usually very clear. It’s also not the busiest season so it isn’t overrun by visitors. However, anytime from May to October is a good time as it’s the dry season so you won’t get wet.
Can you hike to Machu Picchu in one day?
You can’t hike to Machu Picchu in one day from Cusco, but you can visit in one day. There’s a one day tour option where you start early in the morning and get a car to drive you to take the train from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes. You’ll then spend the morning in Machu Picchu before heading down for lunch, a brief rest or walk around the town, and then the train and car back to Cusco.
What is the best month to hike the Inca Trail?
The best time of year is between May to October, with October being the best month of all. The trail is dry and the weather is lovely. During the rainy season the trail will be wet and can make it more difficult.
How high is the Inca Trail altitude?
The highest part of the Inca Trail is Dead Woman’s Pass, which is 4,200 masl. The lowest you’ll reach is 2,600 masl, meaning that the rest of the trek is between these two altitudes.
How hard is hiking to Dead Woman's Pass?
This is one of the most challenging parts of the Inca Trail as it’s almost 1,000 metres of uphill walking to get to this point. However, you’ll be rewarded with fantastic views once you get to the top.
What should I pack for the Inca Trail?
You’ll need to pack lightly as you only have a limited amount of space/weight that you can take. You need to make sure you have clothing for warm and cold climates, as well as lots of sun and bug protection. We recommend using thin layers that can be taken on and off as needed. In addition make sure you have toiletries and any personal medication you need to take. Don’t forget your permit, Machu Picchu tickets, and passport as you won’t be able to enter without these.
Is the Inca Trail difficult?
The Inca Trail is relatively difficult. You’ll be hiking up to a high altitude and a lot of the trail is along ancient steps. This means it can be tough on your knees and ankles. Take your time to allow your body to adjust.
How fit do you need to be to walk the Inca Trail?
You do need to be relatively fit to hike the trail. You’ll be heading up to a high altitudes and hiking along rough terrain, both of which can take their toll on your body. We recommend spending time training and hiking before you come to do the trail.
What Our Clients Say
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Our travellers are our best advocates, and they frequently recommend our specialist travel services to friends, colleagues and family when planning a trip to our region.
What an experience!
Must of been one of the most challenging treks I have done so far but was amazing ! Carlos our guide was the best as he took good care of us, was knowledgeable and really gave us the positive energy we needed in order to keep going! Would definitely recommend the experience as you get to see the Andes, the team is very organized, there was plenty of local food and many many stories to share :)
Salkantay Peru 5D/4N
A whole life experience, take the Salkantay trek 5D/4N. I am very satisfied with the trek, planning, and coordination that was shown throughout the tour, always with kindness, punctuality, and with the willingness to help. Great travel agency Salkantay Trekking. Very kind and attentive
Wonderful trek!
It was honestly the most fantastic experience. My partner is quite fit, I would say I had a medium level of fitness, but 0 experience trekking or being at altitude and had felt a bit nervous before we went. But Freddy is a great guide and there were others in our group with a similar fitness level so it was nice to find someone your speed and trek together. It was an unforgettable experience and I’m so glad we got to do it, and feel so lucky we had Freddy as our guide!!!
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Miss Wanderitall
The Salkantay Trek without a guide or tent
- 16 April 2020 15 October 2022
The Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu is one of the most popular trekking routes in Peru , however, is it possible to do it on your own and sleeping at guesthouses , avoiding to hire a guide or carrying your tent and your own food? We found out it was and, moreover, it was amazingly easy and cheap ! So here we provide all the information for you to also live this experience.
The basics of our Salkantay Trek without a guide:
Duration: 5 days/4 nights Date of travel: from June the 23rd to June the 27th, 2019 Number of travellers: two people Time of preparation: a month for the organisation, way longer for the physical training
In this post you will find everything you need to know to prepare for the Salkantay Trek without a guide, on your own and even better, without carrying a tent to sleep or food for the whole trek ! We will cover where to sleep and eat , all the transportation you will use to get to the starting point of the trek and return to Cusco and how is every day of the trek going to look like .
When you finish reading, you will know everything you need to prepare for this trekking that will take you right to one of the World’s Seven Wonders: Machu Picchu.
Also, if you want to have some useful information about the difficulty of the trek and how to determine if you are prepared to do it, how to prepare the track and what tools you can use to navigate the route, information on altitude sickness and how to minimise its effects, safety along the route and what does your backpack need to contain, check my other post ‘ Salkantay Trek on your own: 5 essentials to prepare ‘.
Salkantay Trek on your own: 5 essentials to prepare
Can I do it on my own?
The salkantay trek without a guide in figures, first night – soraypampa, second night – chaullay, third night – lucmabamba, fourth night – near aguascalientes, 2.3. where to eat, 2.4. transportation, before you start…, side trek to humantay lake, day 2: soraypampa – abra salkantay – chaullay, day 3: chaullay – lucmabamba, from hidroeléctrica to aguascalientes, machu picchu mountain and citadel, to hidroeléctrica and back to cusco, 4. the cost of the salkantay trek without a guide, 1. the business around the salkantay trek.
When we were preparing for our trip to Peru, we learnt that we could arrive to Machu Picchu by trekking instead of taking the train or a bus and we instantly knew that was the option for us. However, almost every piece of information we found regarding the Salkantay Trek was directed at those trekking with a guide or alternatively on how to trek on your own but carrying tent and food. Either was the experience we were looking for. We wanted to carry a light backpack and sleep and eat at guesthouses .
After many searches, we found the amazing blog of Career Break Adventures and their post ‘ Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu (Without a Tent or Guide) ‘. It was our inspiration to prepare our itinerary to trek by our terms : without a guide, without a tent and without carrying the food we would eat for five days.
Once at Cusco and along the trek we spoke with locals and we understood the Salkantay Trek is a huge tourist attraction . Travel agencies are not really interested in you going on your own . For this reason, if you search in the web and if, once in Peru, try to gather information from travel agencies, they will tell you that the trek is not safe and that it’s not possible to do it on your own because you won’t find accommodation or meals. This is absolutely not true .
If you keep reading you will find that the Salkantay Trek passes through several towns and small villages . Almost all of them have accommodation and provide food for their guests. Depending on the day of the trek and your budget, this accommodation may be a private room, a shared dorm or a tent . Your hosts will provide you with everything you need.
Moreover, we were able to keep the cost of the experience at a little less than 150 € per person. All expenses are included in this sum, even the Machu Picchu tickets to the citadel and Machu Picchu Mountain. This is significantly lower than the average cost of a guided tour, ranging from 240 to 420 € (tickets to Machu Picchu -60 € for the citadel, 75 € if you visit also one of the mountains- not included in this price). Later in this post, you will find a compilation of all the expenses we had in the Salkantay Trek without a guide.
Therefore, the only question that will remain is if you are physically and mentally prepared for this trekking, so be sure to read my post ‘ Salkantay Trek on your own: 5 essentials to prepare ‘ for information on that matter.
2. The trekking experience
2.1. in a nutshell.
The Salkantay Trek is a trekking route to arrive to Machu Picchu . It is an alternative to the more famous, but much more regulated Inca Trail, which has a limited number of trekkers allowed per day and gets full months in advance. This is not the case in Salkantay, as there is not a limit in the number of trekkers allowed.
It lasts five days and four nights , visiting Machu Picchu on the last day. With 92 km (57 mi) and almost 8,000 m (26,245 ft) of accumulated elevation gained/lost (3,000 m / 9,840 ft gained and 4,880 / 16,010 ft lost), it is a high demanding extremely beautiful trek. Also, one of the coolest experiences you will have in Peru. Cusco is the ‘base-camp’ you will leave from and where you will return after the adventure.
The Salkantay Trek can be done on your own (either sleeping and eating at guesthouses or carrying your own tent and food) or with an organised group with a guide and porters.
The Salkantay Trek does not require any special skill apart from general fitness and determination . The path is clear and easy to walk, although you can expect some altitude sickness. I believe everyone who is in a good physical condition, has some general knowledge of mountaineering and has thoroughly prepared this trip can do it.
We chose to go on our own and do the Salkantay Trek without a guide and without carrying a tent and food . However, we did carry plenty of snacks (nuts and dehydrated fruit) to substitute most lunches during the trek. We slept every night at guesthouses or campings, where we also bought our meals.
On the first day, we got up early and took the bus to Challacancha , where we started our trek. We walked to Soraypampa , found accommodation, had lunch and left our bags to climb to Humantay Lake .
We slept in Soraypampa and the next morning headed to Abra Salkantay , the highest point of the trek, and started our way down to Chaullay , where we slept on our second night.
The third day we followed a down and easy trail that took us to Lucmabamba to rest.
We started the fourth day climbing to Llaqtapata , then we descended to Hidroeléctrica . From there we followed a long, flat and easy trail to Aguascalientes , but we stopped roughly 3.5 km / 2.2 mi before the town to sleep closer to the Machu Picchu entrance. We still were about 2km / 1.2 mi from the entrance, so we would recommend finding a closer accommodation. We never visited Aguascalientes.
On the fifth day we woke up early again to be among the first ones to enter Machu Picchu . We had a hard, short climb to the entrance still at night. Once at Machu Picchu, the first thing we did was climb the quite demanding Machu Picchu Mountain . When we returned to Machu Picchu archaeological site, we took a guided tour and then raced down to Hidroeléctrica to take a direct bus to Cusco .
The second and last day were definitely the most challenging ones.
These are the main numbers that can help you get an idea of what you will be facing:
* We slept roughly 3.5 km / 2.2 mi before Aguascalientes, to be closer to the Machu Picchu entrance
2.2. Where to sleep
In general, you can sleep in guesthouses, home-stays, campings (in which case your hosts will provide you with the tent, sleeping bag and even a pillow). You will even find fancy expensive domes at some towns. You can’t book these accommodations in advance if you don’t travel with a group, so it’s generally recommended to arrive early to ensure you find a place.
What would happen if you didn’t? You would need to walk a few extra kilometres to reach the next, less popular town. You would for sure find a place to sleep there, but you will probably be tired from the long day walk.
There is hot water everywhere. In general, showers are not included and you need to pay about 10 PEN per person. Toilets can be either private or shared . This will play a role on the price of the room and whether the shower is included or not.
In Soraypampa you will find plenty of guesthouses, campings and domes so just ask around to find the option that works for you.
We slept in a camping. We rented a tent which our hosts prepared for us under a hay cover. Sleeping bags, mattress and a pillow were included, although we didn’t have a shower available. It was a slightly cold night, but we attribute that to the altitude as we were very sheltered from the wind.
For two people, we payed 20 PEN for the accommodation, being our cheapest night in the Salkantay Trek.
We found that most guesthouses offer either rooms, a space for your tent and tents to rent . Showers are available at an extra cost. We arrived at 16.30h and were able to secure one of the last rooms available for 40 PEN for the both of us, so we would recommend to try to arrive earlier, even this is one of the hardest days of the trek.
If rooms are not available when you arrive, you can rent a tent or keep walking to Collpapampa if you still have the energy. It is about 1 km / 0.6 mi from Chaullay and also has plenty of options for accommodation.
As a curiosity, in Chaullay our hosts asked us to have our meals in the kitchen, isolated from other guests. They didn’t want us to share with them that we were doing the Salkantay Trek without a guide.
We found that Lucmabamba was the less crowded place where we slept, because many groups sleep at Santa Teresa to visit its hot springs. There are a very few guesthouses or home-stays , but it is unlikely you find yourself without options because of the low number of tourists visiting.
For us, it was the best night of the whole trek. We rented a room with shared bathroom and a big comfortable bed at Sonia and Walter home stay, in the middle of a coffee plantation, for 50 PEN for both. It was the first night we had electricity.
Some alternatives for this day are the lodges you will find near the main road, just before taking the trail to Lucmabamba (1km / 0.6 mi before Lucmabamba). Also, the nearest towns of Playa Sahuayco or Sahuayco, although they are roughly 4 km / 2.4 mi before Lucmabamba and this would mean a very long fourth day.
The most popular option is to sleep in Aguascalientes (also known as Machu Picchu Pueblo), in which case you will have a lot of options. However, we decided against this for several reasons:
- We were not going to take the train from Hidroeléctrica to Aguascalientes, nor the bus from Aguascalientes to the entrance of Machu Picchu. Therefore the closer we slept from the Machu Picchu entrance the better. We avoided to walk a few kilometres at the end of the fourth day.
- If we had stayed in Aguascalientes, that would mean returning there to get our backpack once our visit to Machu Picchu had ended. Therefore, 4 extra kilometres.
- Everything we read and were told about Aguascalientes prevented us to go there. We understood it is a town filled with tourists coming from the Salkantay Trek, the train to Machu Picchu and the buses to Hidroeléctrica from Cusco – Santa María – Santa Teresa. It has hot springs, party and drunk tourists. We don’t like either of these things, so we decided we could miss it. It is a very personal choice.
We stayed at Mandor (formerly Gea Lodge) , which is the only hostel you will find before Aguascalientes. A dorm with 4 beds, shared bathroom and electricity cost 40 PEN per person.
Around Mandor and until Aguascalientes, there are a few campings available . When we were there on June 2019, they only had tents, however, they were building some bungalows that were supposed to be ready in a couple of months. If we had to recommend you what to do, we would tell you to look for the closer camping to the Machu Picchu entrance, and rent a tent or bungalow to sleep there.
You will have breakfast and dinner in the guesthouse or camping where you sleep. The cost will range from 10 to 15 PEN per person per meal. Don’t expect anything fancy: it will probably consist on an omelette with vegetables and rice, coca tea (mate de coca), juice and coffee. Hot, abundant and nutritive, what else could you need?
Regarding lunch, you may be able to ask for it to-go. You definitely can just stop at any town during the route. However, when we are trekking we always skip lunch and eat plenty of snacks during the day instead (mostly nuts and dehydrated fruits). We prefer this option because we don’t want to waste time waiting for our lunch and, anyway, our body constantly needs the energy from nuts and fruit, and the rest you get from these short stops along the way.
As of water , we carried purification pills and were able to refill our bottles every few minutes for almost the whole trek. The only stage were we couldn’t find water was from Llaqtapata to Hidroeléctrica, on the fourth day. It is also possible to buy bottled water in guesthouses and in the villages you pass, but I would recommend you just to purify it to reduce your plastic waste.
- Bus from Cusco to Challacancha. Leaving from the intersection between Av. Arcopata and Av. Apurimac in Cusco, you take the bus to Mollepata. Once at Mollepata, from where the first bus left you, take another bus or taxi to Challacancha, where you will be starting the trek. You will need to wait for each bus to fill before you leave.
- Train from Hidroeléctrica to Aguascalientes. It will save you from a two hours flat and easy walk at an awfully expensive price: 31 USD per person. Also, if you want to sleep closer to the actual entrance to Machu Picchu, not in Aguascalientes, you will need to walk down some part of the trail, as the train only stops at the end of the line.
- Bus from Aguascalientes to the Machu Picchu entrance. The fact that it costs 12 USD per person is the reason why we decided to walk instead and why we didn’t sleep in Aguascalientes but closer to the Machu Picchu entrance. However, it will save you from a considerably demanding climb.
- Train from Aguascalientes back to Hidroeléctrica.
- Bus from Hidroeléctrica to Cusco. The last direct bus leaves at 16h and arrives at 21.30h, so you better plan your visit to Machu Picchu accordingly. The alternative is changing the bus at Santa Teresa and then again at Santa María, which would take even longer.
- Alternatives for tiredness or sickness. From Playa Sahuayaco (end of third day of the Salkantay Trek) it’s possible to take a bus or taxi to Santa Teresa (popular alternative, particularly among guided groups, because of its hot springs), and another one from Santa Teresa to Hidroeléctrica. Also, the trekking trail goes in parallel to the road during the third day of the trek, so you could take a bus or taxi there.
3. Salkantay Trek without a guide – day-by-day route
Before the trek, we had stayed two nights in Cusco, having previously spent two days in Titicaca Lake and two days in Arequipa, so altitude sickness was not new to us . Also, in this high altitude we had been very active and done a few short treks and a lot of ups-and-downs in the streets of Cusco, so we were better equipped to walk in altitude.
Cusco is also the perfect place for last-minute purchases for the Salkantay Trek without a guide: topographic map and compass, hat, trekking poles… There are plenty of stores with mountaineering equipment around Plaza de Armas so just take the time to visit a few of them to find products and prices that convince you.
In the case of the trekking poles , we bought a pair of them for 80 PEN instead of renting. When we returned back to Cusco, we sold the poles back to one of these stores for 30 PEN. It was way cheaper that if we had rented them, although we had to visit a few stores to find one that would take them.
It was not easy for us to buy a topographic map at Cusco (we had to visit several stores) because, as I said, everything is prepared for you to go in an organised group, so it may be a good idea to buy it online .
Day 1: Cusco – Mollepata – Challacancha – Soraypampa – Humantay Lake
We woke up at 2.45h to be at 3.45h in the Bus Station to Mollepata . We arrived by Uber for 6 PEN from the centre of Cusco. After waiting for half an hour for the bus to be full, and for 15 PEN per person it took us to Mollepata , arriving at 6.15h. Just before entering the town, we passed through a control were we had to pay our 10 PEN per person entry fee to the Salkantay Trek.
We were supposed to take another bus from Mollepata to Challacancha but were told that a taxi was the only option we had available. Apparently, buses are only for organised groups.
So we took a taxi. We were lucky enough to find another couple of travellers that were following the exact same route we were following (also inspired by Career Break Adventures ), so we shared the 15 PEN per person 50 minutes ride. This was the only price we were able to bargain during the trek.
The 2.5h trail from Challacancha to Soraypampa is generally easy. It is steep at the beginning and just before arriving to Soraypampa. In between, it goes next to a river and is flat and narrow.
Once we had found accommodation we took a short nap, had lunch and started our way up to Humantay Lake . It was not long (about 1.5h) but harder than we expected, even with our bags at the campsite. The path was very steep and you definitely felt the lack of oxygen.
You forgot about all that once you arrived to the lake. It is one of the most beautiful places we have ever visited. We lingered there for a little longer than we should have, relaxing, taking pictures and exploring the surroundings. We watched the sunset from that point. On the way down, the sun was already leaving. It was considerably easier, but a little hard on the knees.
The weather had been very pleasant the whole day, we weren’t cold even at the Humantay Lake (4,221 m / 13,848 ft). However, at night temperatures were notably lower and we were glad to have the shelter from the hay cover and the sleeping bag. The sky was clear and full of stars.
In the second day of the Salkantay Trek without a guide, we started walking at 6.30h. A very steep trail with plenty of zigzags that allowed us to gain altitude fast, let you arrive to Abra Salkantay in 4.5h.
We felt lightheaded and fatigued all the way up, having to stop several times to catch our breath. We even had to stop once for half an hour because I felt extremely dizzy. Rest and food helped and healed us every time. Don’t try to hurry to the Pass, listen to your body and give it the rest it needs. Luckily the surroundings are amazingly beautiful.
Once at the top, having completed one of the hardest sections of the trek, the landscape was spectacular. We were not cold at all and we spent a few minutes soaking on the beauty of the mountain range. Then, we started the long 5.5h descend. Very welcomed at the beginning because it was easy and the amount of oxygen was higher and higher. However, 13 km / 8 mi and 1,800 m / 5,905 ft of descend are no joke. It truly felt like the day never ended and the last few hours were nothing short from infernal.
We arrived to Chaullay at 16.30h, got a room, took a shower, had dinner and went to sleep exhausted.
Overall, it was one of the most physically demanding days of my whole life.
We started walking once again at 6.30h. This third day of the Salkantay Trek without a guide was generally easy and downhill, but long. During the first few minutes we walked in the road, until we turned left across the river and took the trail.
From Chaullay to Playa Sahuayco , the path goes down with a few easy and short climbs. For most of the time it crosses the jungle, so be prepared for heat and insects. Once you arrive to Playa Sahuayco and until you turn left for the trail to Lucmabamba , you walk again in the flat road.
Playa Sahuayco and Sahuayco are real towns, not the small villages you will have encountered so far. It will be possible for you to have lunch there, however, we decided to continue.
The last climb from the main road to Lucmabamba is short and not particularly steep. However, we were so tired that it was a huge effort for us. We passed the first home stay we found and settled in the second one because it was slightly cheaper.
It was 13.30h and we had already finished the trekking of the day, so we were really proud – and tired. We rested for almost an hour, took turns on the shower and spent a great part of the afternoon massaging our muscles and stretching. The dinner was amazingly good and we went to sleep feeling a little repaired.
Day 4: Lucmabamba – Llaqtapata – Hidroeléctrica – Aguascalientes
At 3.21h, the rooster that lived next to our room started crowing and didn’t stop. There was not a single ray of light in the sky, so we couldn’t understand what was wrong with that animal, but we slept OK despite of that.
We started walking on our fourth day of the Salkantay Trek without a guide at 6.30h after an amazing breakfast. The first stop of the day was a swing on the way to Llaqtapata viewpoint. We arrived there at 9.30h, after a generally easy climb that combined demanding and relaxed stages. We entertained ourselves for a few minutes swinging and taking pictures.
The short climb from the swing to Llaqtapata viewpoint, where we arrived at 10h, was a little more demanding. There you have views over the whole range of mountains, including the Machu Picchu, so it’s also one of the most spectacular landscapes of the trek.
The descend from Llaqtapata to Hidroeléctrica was long, hot and infernal again. The first stage was easy and fun until you found the zigzags, which descended very steep and lasted for a lot of time. It was not friendly on the knees. After the zigzags, you walked about 2 km / 1.2 mi in the flat road under the noon sun.
Our main problem in this descend and the road, apart from its steepness, was the sun and the lack of water. The shadows of the trees ended almost at the beginning of the zigzag. Also, from Llaqtapata and right before arriving to Hidroeléctrica, there was nowhere were you could refill nor buy some water. You better remember to fill your bottle up before starting this stage!
We left Hidroeléctrica at 13h . The first 10 minutes you will be following an intense climb through the forest. After that, you will find yourself again in the train rails, which you will follow until you arrive. This path is mildly ascending and easy.
We arrived at Mandor (formerly Gea Lodge) , the hostel were we slept, at 14.45h. The room was not the best: we had a beehive next to our window. However, they had a nice terrace that overlooked the river. We spent most of the afternoon there tending to our muscles. We had dinner at Mamá Angélica (our only option) and went to sleep really early. An exciting adventure was waiting for us the following day!
Day 5: Machu Picchu – Machu Picchu Mountain – return to Hidroeléctrica and Cusco
On the fifth day of the Salkantay Trek without a guide we started walking at 4.15h. We were very light having left our backpack in the hostel, which was an improvement! However, it was still dark night, so we relied on our frontal lights to check the path.
We arrived to the queue to the Machu Picchu entrance at 4.45h and were among the first ones there. The entrance opened at 5h and at 5.10h we passed the control. Then, we started the race to the Machu Picchu citadel trying to beat the buses that were already arriving. Our goal was to see the archaeological site without the massive amount of tourists that would arrive.
We were at the second control to Machu Picchu at 6.15h, exhausted and kind of overwhelmed after a very demanding climb filled with steps and still at night. There, we found that if you wanted to hire a guide you needed to do that before accessing the citadel. As our ticket was also for Machu Picchu mountain, we could first go to the mountain and then enter the citadel again with a guide. We guess this will also be possible if the ticket you have is for Huayna Picchu.
We also found that our trekking poles , in which we relied heavily after four days of trekking, had to be left in the lockers . Apparently, to protect the runes, they are only allowed for people over 65yo and with a certified medical condition. Even then, they need to wear a plastic cover.
When purchasing our tickets for Machu Picchu, we decided to climb Machu Picchu Mountain instead of Huayna Picchu because it is higher. And, you know, the higher the better. We didn’t factor that we would be extremely tired from the previous days of trekking, but still we don’t regret this decision.
We checked at the Machu Picchu Mountain control around 7h, where we could stay for four hours. Desperately missing our trekking poles, we started the exhausting and difficult 2h climb. It was very steep with irregular and high steps. After four days of trekking, our legs almost couldn’t carry us. But nevertheless we arrived at the top, having left behind a few people that turned down because of the difficulty.
After resting for a while, we took the mandatory pictures and raced our way down in 40 minutes. Once at the citadel , we were lucky to find a guide who had just started the tour. We joined the group for 20 PEN per person, without having to go outside to look for a guide and enter again.
We truly recommend hiring a guide to be able to appreciate all the history and details of Machu Picchu. For us, the two-hour tour was extremely interesting but also exhausting. At this point, even standing still listening to the explanations of the guide was a huge effort.
The guide was the one who told us that the last direct bus from Hidroeléctrica to Cusco left at 16h. Otherwise we would need to stop at Santa Teresa and then again at Santa María, and we would arrive to Cusco very late at night. It was already 12.45h.
With this new information and no energy left, we started racing down the stairs to the first Machu Picchu entrance . Once at the train rails, we stopped for a couple of minutes to eat a sandwich and have a sugary drink to try to regain some strength. It greatly helped.
We were at our hostel at 14.10h, picked up our backpack and at 14.40h we were back on the train rail, walking non-stop to Hidroeléctrica . It was not the best moment for us, because we had a very close deadline, 7 km / 4.3 mi to go, and we were exhausted. Mind over body, as they say it, so we kept walking. We arrived to Hidroeléctrica at 15.58h and were able to secure passages in the last direct bus to Cusco for 35 PEN per person that left a minute after we arrived.
The first part of the road until you leave the mountain range is interesting, so to speak. The road is very narrow and irregular, drivers tend to drive faster than they should and you have mountain at your left and a very high cliff on your right. It was without a doubt the most dangerous part of the Salkantay Trek. The rest of the drive, using more conventional roads, is only long and boring.
We arrived at Cusco at 21.30h and had enough energy only to take a shower and go to sleep without having dinner.
We have been giving information about prices during the whole post, however, we have also compiled all the costs we had so you can get an idea of how much will you be spending for each category:
In case it is easier for you, here you will find these same amounts in Peruvian soles (PEN):
Note: the cost of the Machu Picchu tickets are not included in the totals of this table
Was this post useful for you? Please let me know and feel free to ask any question in the comments section! You can also support my work and Buy Me A Coffe . I will be immensely happy 🙂
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Also, if you want to have some additional useful information about the difficulty of the trek and what you need to assess to determine if you are prepared to do it, how to prepare the track and what tools you can use to navigate the route, information on altitude sickness and how to minimise its effects, safety along the route and what does your backpack need to contain, check my other post ‘ Salkantay Trek on your own: 5 essentials to prepare ‘.
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Rory Mouton
Travel writer, author, europe travel expert, trekking the salkantay to machu picchu con refugios.
May 9, 2018 By Rory Moulton
An alternative to the permit-required and heavily touristed Inca Trail, the Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu can be attempted in a variety of ways — from DIY camping to 5-star luxury guided — but none offer the ground-level experience of Refugios Salkantay.
Friends who have completed the full Salkantay Trek shower us with warnings: Swarming mosquitos. Endless rain. Thin air. Utter exhaustion. Arduous climbs. Food poisoning. Ornery burros.
Is that it?
We question our travel choice, “Should we really subject our son to this, um, character-building experience?” Somehow preparing for a Peru trek has morphed into a covert Vietnam War mission behind enemy lines. Do we really want to camp and hike for 4+ days while soaking wet, covered in mosquito bites and tired to the bone?
I stumble on a solution: Refugios Salkantay
They promise hot showers, lodging with local families, livestock assistance (i.e., they carry our big bags and we carry our day packs) and all meals for four days of Andean trekking. The outfitter boasts almost-unanimously positive reviews on Airbnb and TripAdvisor. Sounding too good to be true, we PayPal the owner, Edwin, a down payment and nervously circle the dates on our calendar. Mosquitos be damned.
DAY 1: Mollepata to Soraypampa
The trek begins, well, in a car. The drive from Cusco’s San Blas district to our starting point, the tiny Andean village of Mollepata, is nothing short of stunning. We dip, dive, swerve, climb and plough forward through dense jungle, scantly vegetated alpine passes, vast agricultural terraces and rapidly diminishing towns. I count four different climate zones during our two-hour drive.
Over scrambled eggs, diced mango and pineapple and flatbread smothered in honey, Edwin briefs us in methodic and measured Spanish on the journey ahead. Overall, it’s a reassuringly detailed plan, but includes some disconcerting portions:
- “In Chalway, ask for a guy named Ishmael.”
- “Pack horses will knock you off the cliff, so move to the inside of the trail when you see horses approaching. Muy rapido .”
- “Don’t walk through the train tunnel when there’s a train coming.”
We walk a few hours beside an Incan canal, ushered along by its soothing soundtrack of swiftly rushing water, before reaching our first stop at Refugio Soray, located in a mile-wide, verdant alpine valley at the base of Salkantay Pass. The wispy cloud halo encircling Salkantay Peak slowly breaks, giving us our first look at the 20,000-foot mountain, bejeweled with hanging glaciers and crowned with a knife-edge ridge leading to a spear-tip summit. The prospect of tomorrow’s closer look excites us as we embark on a 1-hour acclimatization hike to Huamantay Lake, after a hearty lunch of chicken soup and lomo saltado (Peru’s fried rice).
Night is cold at 12,000 feet. We watch our smoky exhales rise toward the plywood ceiling as we tuck into a cocoon of at least a thousand alpaca blankets, dreams of crossing 15,000-foot Salkantay Pass dancing through our heads.
DAY 2: Salkantay Pass to Lucmabamba
We’re traveling with our friends and neighbors, the appropriately named Ihnkens (pronounced just like the bygone empire whose ruins we now traverse). The ascent quickly reveals there are two fitness levels in our group — my mountain-goat, cross-country-runner son, Lynn, and the elder Ihnkens, Rick and Colleen, who we learn run trails back home in hours that I hike over whole days . So that leaves the rest of us, the mere mortals — my wife, Tarn (the Ihnkens’ son) and yours truly.
Lynn cruises ahead, quickly scampering out of sight, while Rick and Colleen, who clearly feel bad for the mere mortals, slow their pace to hang and chat with us. After overtaking a group of sweaty and breathless Germans, we learn that Lynn, who passes group after group on the ascent, has earned the nickname “The Legend” for his speedy climbing skills.
Reuniting at the pass, we smile, snack on local chocolates, guzzle water and snap victorious photos. The air is thin. The sky is blue and there’s a glacier hanging off a 20,000-foot peak above us. As we begin the descent into the jungle and onward to Lucmabamba, our home for the night, I look over my shoulder, taking one last mental picture of the mighty Salkantay. You never know when or if you’ll be back.
Our digs in Lucmabamba are a revelation: An organic coffee plantation with two casitas carved from a small rectangle of jungle located DIRECTLY on the Inca Trail. Run by a heartwarming family of four generations, they greet us like long lost relatives with cold Cusqueña beers and genuine smiles. We immediately feel welcome, at home. We take short, hot showers. Bellies and hearts full, we gather in the courtyard to watch as Tarn and Lynn play some improvised version of soccer with the owners’ constantly giggling 6-year-old daughter. We feast on a fabulous trout dinner served alongside a yucca-and-avocado salad, drinking a few more beers as we revel with our hosts (who repeatedly tell us how nice it is to host guests who speak Spanish, however tenuous our grasp on the language may be) late into the night.
DAY 3: Inca Trail to Llactapata Lodge
We rise, renewed and ready for another day of trekking. First, Oscar, the patriarch, guides us through the coffee process, from cultivation to roasting, with a side trip through the banana trees and guinea pig pens. Just before lunch, a driver delivers us to the local hot springs in Santa Teresa (because all jungle paradises should come equipped with natural hot springs nearby) to soak our sore bodies for a couple hours. The big, clean pools’ hot water and smooth river stones fills the prescription.
Alas, the trail calls after a replenishing lunch of quinoa soup and grilled chicken. We reluctantly say goodbye. No one wants to leave this peaceful oasis bursting with coffee beans, hummingbirds, parakeets, banana trees, lovely hearts and easy smiles.
The hiking is strenuous. We climb toward a saddle on the ridge above the plantation. It’s hot and while the trail isn’t particularly steep, it’s unrelenting. And did I mention it’s hot? It’s a whole different world here — sticky jungle as opposed to arid alpine pastures. We continue ascending, though, undeterred by jungle conditions because we know a grand reward awaits at the saddle.
And what reward it is! A few minutes after gaining the saddle, we arrive at a clearing containing the Llactapata ruins and a direct view of Machu Picchu. We’re stunned, literally speechless. The view extends across three steep river valleys. The morning’s misty clouds clear and we look out toward what feels like forever, with Machu Picchu’s backside — precariously clinging to a thousand-foot cliff — right smack in the center.
As amazing as this view is, it gets even better as we arrive at Llactapata Lodge, our accommodation for the night. The view from our rooms — Machu Picchu surrounded by towering jungle peaks above and abrupt river gorges below — beats even that from the ruins a couple hours earlier. We kick off our muddy boots, open cold beers and Fantas and congregate on the bench outside our casitas to stare in awe at our new backyard. Our smiles say everything. Is this heaven? No, it’s Llactapata.
DAY 4: Train Tracks to Aguas Calientes
Awakening to Machu Picchu practically in bed with us, we breathe in one last view from the Llactapata refugio , shoulder our day packs and descend through the heavy jungle canopy toward the trail’s terminus, the railway town of Hidroeléctrica.
It’s muggy and we’re feeling haggard from yesterday’s trek, but this is the home stretch so we march on through Hidroeléctrica, linking up with the rail line. We follow the train tracks and signs to Aguas Calientes, a few hours hike beside the raging Vilcabamba River. Massive white-granite cliffs plunge into the river while misty clouds ring mountain peaks. It feels like we’ve stumbled into a lost world. Sure it’s hot, we’re hungry and the bugs are out, but we hardly mind.
I smile as Aguas Calientes comes into sight. We’ve done it. Despite all those warnings from friends and some long days on trail, we’ve not only completed the trek but, more importantly, we’re arriving with smiles on our faces…thanks to a few refugios along the way.
Book your Salkantay Trek with Refugios Salkantay here: www.refugiossalkantay.com
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Salkantay Treks Hiking the Salkantay Trail to Machu Picchu
Salkantay trekking.
The Salkantay Trek is one of the most spectacular trekking routes in the world. The Salkantay hiking trail goes deep in the snow capped Salkantay mountain range, visits the emerald Humantay glacial lake, an indigenous coffee farm, and travels through several microclimates. The unique glamping accommodations and private campsites are unlike any other tour: Glass Cabanas bring stargazing into full view, Hobbit Houses with outdoor jacuzzis and hot showers, and camping literally overlooking mystical Machu Picchu at Llactapata. Wow! All this, while you are hiking an ancient trade route right into the local town at the foot of Machu Picchu itself!
The Best Salkantay Treks Start with Indigenous Tour Operator Alpaca Expeditions
You are traveling with the award-winning, #1 tour operator in Cusco for all treks to Machu Picchu. Our Salkantay Trek stands out from all other companies with its unique glamping accommodations during your trek – our Glass Cabanas and Hobbit House. You will get top-quality camping equipment , exceptional, nutritious meals on the trail prepared by professional chefs, and leading safety procedures on every trek . We are a local, indigenous, and sustainable company – 100% Peruvian and the leader in supporting our local communities through social projects and porter welfare .
Salkantay Availability
All Salkantay Treks are available for daily tour departures, March – January. Optimal trekking season is April -October. No special permits are needed, unlike the Classic Inca Trail.
How Inca Trail Permits Work
Salkantay Trek FAQs - See the top questions and answers about hiking the Salkantay Trail
1. how challenging or difficult is the salkantay trek.
The Salkantay Trek is a challenging trek in the Andes Mountains range of Peru and offers trekkers the opportunity to experience some of the most breathtaking landscapes in the country. Trekkers who prepare for 5 days of hiking from 12km to 22km (7.5 miles to 13.7 miles) daily, and are in reasonable physical fitness can accomplish this beautiful, remote trek.
The trek takes place at high altitude, which can be challenging for many individuals when not acclimated even just a few days in advance. High altitude can cause symptoms such as headaches, fatigue, and difficulty breathing. The hiking paths include rocky footpaths, steep mountain trails, uneven terrain, and depending on the season, deeply rutted, muddy paths.
This five-day trek starts at the height of 3,800 meters (~12,500 feet) and finishes at 4,200 meters (13,776 feet) at Machu Picchu. The trek’s highest point is the Salkantay Pass at 4,600 meters (15,092 feet). Trekkers will hike to the Salkantay Pass on the very first day of trekking. The typical Salkantay trek is five days, so day one is the highest altitude point on your trek. The night before your trek starts, your Glass Cabanas accommodations are at 3800 meters above sea level.
During the trek, trekkers will face a wide variety of weather conditions, including cold temperatures and strong winds in the Salkantay mountains on the first 2 days, and hot, humid rainforest conditions on the subsequent hiking days to Machu Picchu. This can make the Salkantay trail even more challenging. Having the proper hiking equipment and clothes for trekking is essential.
If you are fit and have trained for this trek, you should have no problems except possibly for altitude acclimatization. Note that altitude acclimatization is independent of physical fitness! If you are not an uber athlete, but are in reasonable physical condition, this is a very doable hike if you come prepared to spend up to 8 hours or more hiking, in order to complete the daily mileage. Fast hikers may get to camp by mid afternoon, and slower hikers tend to get to camp by the very end of the day.
Acclimatizing to high elevation before you start your Salkantay Trek is really important, especially because the 5 day trek has all the highest elevation on days 1 and 2. You don’t have a chance to work up to the highest elevation over the first few days, as a result. We strongly recommend that you arrive in Cusco at least 2 if not 3 full days before your trek so you can better acclimatize to the high altitude. Cusco elevation is 3353 meters or 11,000 feet.
2. How does the Salkantay Trek Compare to the Inca Trail Trek?
The Salkantay Tour is more difficult than the Inca Trail tour because it has a longer average daily hiking distance, is 5 days instead of 4 days (4 days of actual hiking versus 3 days of hiking on the INca trail, with the last day spent touring at Machu Picchu) and goes to higher altitude. The Salkantay total distance hiked is over 60 kilometers (37+miles) whereas the classic Inca Trail total distance is about 40 kilometers (25+ miles).
With Alpaca Expeditions, the Salkantay Trek is five nights and five days, with 2 of those nights camping in tents at private campsites where you will not see any other groups. The other 3 nights are in unique glamping accommodations along the hike – Glass Cabanas on the first night and Hobbit Houses on the 3rd night. The final night is at a hotel in Aguas Calientes, the local town at the foot of Machu Picchu. It has become a busy town focused exclusively on tourism and travelers to Machu Picchu. In contrast, the Inca Trail Trek is 4 days and 4 nights, and all found nights are camping in tents at group campsites along the Inca Trail. Note that all the trekking companies use the same group campsites, so hikers will be camping with many other travelers each night.
Here is a quick comparison of the Salkantay 5 Day Trek and the Inca Trail 4 Day Trek:
- Salkantay 60+km/ 37+ miles
- Inca Trail 40+km / 25+ miles
AVERAGE DAILY HIKING:
- Salkantay 12-22 km/ 7.5 -13.7 miles
- Inca Trail: 10-16 km/6.2-10 mi
MACHU PICCHU ACCESS:
- Salkantay – Hike into Aguas Calientes town at base of Machu Picchu on Day 4. Walk or bus to Machu Picchu on day 5.
- INca Trail: Hike into Machu Picchu on Day 4 through the Sun Gate
ACCOMMODATIONS:
- Salkantay: 2 nights tent camping, 2 nights glamping, 1 night hotel
- Inca Trail: 3 nights tent camping
COOKING CLASSES
- Salkantay: YES
- Inca Trail: YES
EMERGENCY HORSE for Tired Trekkers
- Salkantay: YES day 1 (hardest longest day)
- Inca Trail: no
HIGHEST ELEVATION
- Salkantay: Salkantay Pass at 4,600 meters (15,092 feet)
- Inca Trail: Dead Woman’s Pass 4,000 meters (13,200 feet)
3. Are there Facilities for Showers Available During the Salkantay Trek?
Typically yes, there are some showers on the Salkantay Trek. The availability of showers on the trek depends, though, on what kind of Salkantay Trek you are doing: tent camping only, glamping & traditional camping, or mountain lodges. If it’s an exclusively tent camping trek, typically there are no showers at all. Alpaca Expeditions’ Salkantay Trek is a glamping trek.Trekkers enjoy showers on night 1 at the Glass Cabanas, on night 3 at the Hobbit Houses, and on night 5 at the hotel in Aguas Calientes before your final day touring Machu Picchu. If you are trekking the Salkantay trail via a mountain lodge path, you will typically showers at the lodges. Salkantay Treks options vary, so it’s really about your budget and trekking style.
4. What are the Bathroom Options on the Salkantay Trek?
There are several minimalist bathroom facilities along much of the Salkantay Trek, especially with how Alpaca Expeditions runs its glamping and camping 5 day trek.
Remember to bring your own toilet paper though, as you cannot be assured of TP in any of these facilities! Along the trek, there is typically a public or private bathroom opportunity at the lunch stop; otherwise, there are no bathrooms.
Night 0 – Pre Trek
- The first night at Alpaca Expeditions’ Glass Cabanas has a bathhouse with flush toilets, and running water for sinks and showers. Note – this is the night before day
DAY 1 – Trekking
- On the first day of trekking to the Salkantay Pass, there is a small and clean bathroom one-third of the way up the pass that costs one sol to use. It is maintained by local villagers who manage the small drink and snack station (and souvenirs) there beside it, as well.
- Also on day 1 of hiking, right before the top of the pass, there is another public bathroom facility that you can use. It is really just a little shack with a flush toilet in it, and it is not regularly managed or cleaned. While it’s not in excellent condition, it is a flush toilet! You will want to remember to always carry extra toilet paper for your personal use on the trek.
- This 2nd night on the Alpaca Expeditions’ Salkantay Trek is tent camping in the middle of the mountains. There is a small bathroom stall with a flush toilet, and initial toilet paper supplies. Remember to supplement with your own toilet paper.
DAY 2 – Trekking
- During the 2nd day of the trek, you will have lunch at a little roadside picnic area with clean bathrooms with flush toilets. The bathrooms cost 1 or 2 soles to use, it’s worth it because they are well maintained!
- In the morning and afternoon while hiking, there are no public bathrooms, so mother nature is it.
- The 3rd night is at the Hobbit Houses with bathrooms with flush toilets and hot showers. Bring your own TP to be sure you don’t run out.
DAY 3 – Trekking
- On Alpaca Expeditions’ Salkantay Trek, during this 3rd day of hiking you will hike along the river and then to a really cool indigenous coffee farm. Well maintained bathrooms with flush toilets are available there, and you’ll enjoy a wonderful lunch, cooking class, make your own roasted coffee beans, and also tour the coffee farm.
- This is the 4th night of your 5 day, 5 night trek, and it is tent camping at Llactapata high up in the mountains and next to a closed lodge. Trekkers can use the two adjacent bathroom stalls with flush toilets and running water sinks there at the lodge facility.
DAY 4 Trekking
- Hiking during the morning is down into Hydroelectrica. There are no bathrooms along the way in the morning – mother nature is it.
- Clean bathrooms are available at the lunch stop, before the walk to Aguas Calientes along the train tracks in the afternoon.
- THere are a few places along the train tracks route that have bathrooms, have your own toilet paper and be prepared to pay 1 or 2 soles. Otherwise, mother nature is it.
- The 5th night is at a hotel in Aguas Calientes.
Day 5 – Machu Picchu Tour
- Machu Picchu has a large restroom facility OUTSIDE the entrance gate. There are NO bathrooms inside Machu Picchu.
- Be prepared, if you are hiking up Huayna Picchu during your Machu Picchu visit, the entrance to Huayna Picchu is at the very farthest side of the Machu Picchu complex, away from the entrance and only restrooms. You will be assigned a start time to do the steep, but intensely rewarding, hike up the peak, and you must make that start time or you may not get to climb. Plan accordingly if you want to use the bathroom before starting your Huayna Picchu climb and get to the entrance gate to use the restroom. You will need to show both your Machu Picchu and Huayna Picchu tickets in order to get back into the Machu Picchu complex. There are no bathroom facilities on Huayna Picchu Mountain.
- This is also true of hiking up Machu PIcchu Mountain – plan accordingly if you need/want to use the restroom before you start your hike up that mountain from your Machu Picchu tour. There are no bathroom facilities on Machu Picchu Mountain.
5. What is the Elevation of Salkantay Pass?
The Salkantay Pass is situated at an altitude of 4,600 meters (15,092 feet) above sea level. Trekkers will hike to the Salkantay Pass on the very first day of trekking. The typical Salkantay trek is five days, so day one is the highest altitude point on your trek. The night before your trek starts, your Glass Cabanas accommodations are at 3800 meters above sea level. This means you are hiking an additional 800 meters, or 2625 feet up and down in one day.
Acclimatizing to high elevation before you start your Salkantay Trek is really important, especially because the 5 day trek has all the highest elevation on days 1 and 2. You don’t have a chance to work up to the highest elevation over the first few days, as a result. We strongly recommend that you arrive to Cusco at least 2 if not 3 full days before your trek so you can better acclimatize to the high altitude. Cusco elevation is 3353 meters or 11,000 feet.
6. What Does Salkantay Mean?
Salkantay comes from the Quechua Salka, which means “Wild.” This name is attributed to the geography of the place; since crossing the pass, all the geographic space is a cloud forest full of vegetation and a wide variety of trees and animals typical of the jungle.
Long before the Salkantay route was made available for tourism, this was a mule track for the muleteers with horses that made frequent use of this route. They transported different products such as vegetables, fruits, and other goods brought from the jungle of Cusco. These muleteers were skilled in navigating the treacherous terrain, and they used this route as a means of transporting goods and supplies to different parts of the region.
Salkantay Trek Magazine: See the spectacular Salkantay hiking trail to Machu Picchu in this full color magazine!
The salkantay trek magazine.
The Salkantay Trek is an amazing alternative hiking trail to Machu Picchu than the popular Classic Inca Trail. It is a favorite for trekkers, especially because it’s far less crowded, has extraordinary scenery in the Salkantay Mountain range, and traverses through several micro climate ecosystems. We’re excited to share this beautiful trek experience with you. Download our 44-page, full color Salkantay 5-Day/5-Night Trek Magazine and see for yourself what it’s like!
Get Your Salkantay Magazine here
Salkantay Trekking Map: Elevations, Landmarks, Campsites, Altitude Profile & More
See where The Salkantay Trek Trail is in Peru, and trace your hiking route to Machu Picchu with these useful Salkantay Trek maps.
SALKANTAY MAP
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More than 2K trips made safely with our Satellite Phones
Cooking classes are on all our camping treks . Learn to cook traditional, delicious dishes in open air classroom of the magical Andes mountains!
Explore All Salkantay Hiking Tours: Classic 5 Day, Salkantay + Inca Trail 7 Day, and Humantay Lake 1 Day
Find the Salkantay tour that best suits your interests. Do you want to hike the entire Salkantay Trek away from the crowds of the Inca Trail? Then choose the classic 5 day Salkantay Trek. Want to also hike into Machu Picchu through the famous Sun Gate? Then choose the Salkantay + Inca Trail 7 Day tour! Are you short on time or not keen on hiking a lot but really want to see the beautiful Salkantay Mountain range in person? Then go for the Humantay Lake 1 day hiking tour.
Salkantay Trek + Inca Trail 7D/6N
Ultimate Classic Salkantay Trek 5D/5N
Humantay Blue Lagoon Day Hike
Women Only Machu Picchu Tours
Salkantay Trek Peru – 6D/5N
Check 4, 5 & 7 day inca trail availability, get in touch, alpaca expeditions recognitions, iso (international organization for standardization).
In the pursuit to stand out from the rest, Alpaca Expeditions has obtained four ISOs plus our carbon footprint certificate to date. These achievements result from our efforts to implement the internationally-recognized integrated management system. They also represent our commitment to all of our clients and staff of operating sustainability and responsibility in every way possible.
World Travel Awards
Alpaca Expeditions is internationally recognized as a leading tourism company in Peru. As proof, we have been awarded the World Travel Award for Peru´s Best Tour Operator 2021 for the second time.
TRIPADVISOR RECOGNITIONS
Our goal at Alpaca Expeditions is to create the best experience for all of our clients. We create journeys that are to be remembered for a lifetime. Journeys you can be proud of and can share with everybody around you.
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Hotel to Hotel service
Regarding the transportation provided by Alpaca Expeditions, we are committed to delivering a quality service. We strive to ensure that passengers feel supported throughout their journey. To achieve this, we coordinate closely with our guides and representatives to ensure timely pick-up at the start of their tours. Additionally, we have representatives responsible for escorting our passengers to their hotels at the conclusion of any tour.
Our drivers are not only trained in customer service but also come properly uniformed, and many are fluent in English.
Typically, all transportation types are included in each of our services. For instance, if you have booked a trekking tour, we will pick you up early, typically between 4 AM and 5 AM. When visiting Cusco, it's important to note that traffic here is generally moderate. However, there are peak traffic times, such as between 7 AM and 8 AM, which coincide with school hours, and in the evening between 6:00 PM and 8:00 PM. Therefore, if you have a flight during these times, it's crucial to be at the airport at least 2 hours in advance. The drivers of Alpaca Expeditions ensure their vehicles are prepared with all necessities before each service. They are acutely aware that delays can lead to missed trains, flights, or other connections. Consequently, they are always more than punctual, arriving at least 10 minutes before the scheduled time for any service, understanding the responsibility they carry in executing these tasks.
Personal Porter of 7KG
Remember that Alpaca Expeditions offers an extra 7 kg allowance for your personal belongings on any of our tours. We include a personal porter who is responsible for carrying your duffel bag without any additional fee. You will not have access to your duffel bag until you reach your evening campsite. The bag should not exceed 7 kg, which includes 4 kg for clothes and 3 kg for your sleeping bag and sleeping mat.
Each Alpaca Expeditions porter is paid directly after each trek, allowing them to return home more quickly. They receive better wages than our competitors, health insurance, and all their equipment free of charge, including hiking boots, pants, jerseys, fleeces, jackets, hats, flashlights, sleeping bags, and high-quality food. We ensure each of our porters has a comfortable bed in a pleasant room to sleep in before and after each trek. We also visit the communities they live in, providing toothpaste, toothbrushes, soap, and other necessary supplies to their families, along with books for their children.
This is just the beginning for us, and we are always looking for ways to do more. While the government allows each porter to carry up to 25 kg, we limit this to 20 kg to prioritize their health and safety. Each porter carries up to 15 kg of company equipment and 5 kg of personal items. This is why it is crucial to keep your personal duffel bag weight under our 7 kg limit. You might see other companies allowing their porters to carry more than the allotted weight, but at Alpaca Expeditions, we strictly adhere to these limits to ensure our porters' well-being.
Clases de Cocina
Alpaca Expeditions offers its passengers the chance to experience local cooking. We aim to immerse trekkers in Inca life by walking them through the original Inca paths and teaching them about Inca culture. Food is a significant part of Inca life, making it a special element in any tour or trek with Alpaca Expeditions.
In 2022, Alpaca Expeditions introduced a cooking class as part of each of our treks, conducted by our amazing trekking chefs and interpreted by our guides.
We will transform your dining tent into a makeshift kitchen, providing all the necessary supplies to prepare a Peruvian specialty. Your chef will guide you step by step through the process of making a traditional Peruvian meal, such as Lomo Saltado, and share some essential mountain cooking tips.
Peru is recognized as a top culinary destination, largely thanks to the popularity of our renowned beef dish, Lomo Saltado. This is most often the meal you will learn to cook, but there is also the opportunity to learn how to prepare other dishes like traditional Peruvian ceviche or even our signature drink, the pisco sour.
Cooking Class on the Inca Trail: These classes are voluntary and designed to be a fun, educational experience. Our clients consistently marvel at the amazing ability of our chefs to create culinary magic on a mountaintop. As you learn to prepare and cook Peruvian specialties, you will also see firsthand how such elaborate meals can be created on a small campsite stove.
Enjoy a cooking class in the mountains and be sure to take plenty of photos, just in case your friends won't believe your incredible experience.
Satellite Phones
The best way to hike in the mountains of Peru is to completely disconnect from technology, especially the internet and cell phones. The most impressive and exciting aspect is the opportunity to experience the true and wonderful nature that we often miss when we are at home, watching TV or absorbed in our cell phones during our leisure time. The feeling of being disconnected from work and the daily routine left at home is incredible.
However, this remoteness means limited access to emergency resources. That's why Alpaca Expeditions has invested in satellite phones for every trek.
We are prepared to assist you in case of any emergency, particularly health-related issues. For this reason, Alpaca Expeditions has invested in satellite phones, as they are one of the most crucial tools for any operator trekking in remote areas where telephone or television signals are absent. This means that every guide on our treks will be equipped with a fully charged satellite phone as well as radios. While these are primarily for emergencies, we allow our clients to use them at any time.
We ask that you cover the cost, which is $2.50 per minute. This fee can be paid in cash at our office or via PayPal once you have completed the trek.
Being just a phone call away from any doctor, hospital, or friend helps everyone feel assured of their safety. Radios, which all our guides carry, have limited reach, so Alpaca Expeditions includes satellite phones to ensure that we can connect no matter where we are on the mountain.
Portable private toilet
We understand that our clients will need restroom facilities at various times and locations during their journey. Along the Inca Trail, there are restrooms available, particularly those belonging to the communities near the trail. Alpaca Expeditions provides portable toilets to enhance this service, which will be set up at each meal site or campsite.
As with any mountain trip where we are exposed to nature, it is possible to use natural areas as restrooms. However, it is crucial to be mindful of the waste we generate, such as toilet paper or wet wipes used for cleaning. These should be carried with us and not discarded on the ground or left along the trail. Remember, the Inca Trail is a protected area overseen by a government institution. In places where garbage bins are unavailable, particularly at our camps, we provide special plastic bags for waste. Our porter team will be responsible for carrying out our waste.
Please be aware that although there are designated bathrooms for men and women, in practice, both genders often use the same facilities. Functionally, there is no significant difference between men's and women's bathrooms. Therefore, it is common for people of all genders to use whichever bathroom is available.
Refugios Salkantay
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" The quieter season was perfect for us on the route, less crowded and we got to enjoy the hike more. "
" Take sunscreen and mosquito spray! "
" Don't forget bug spray, sunscreen and a bathing suit "
" Take at least 2-3 days in Cusco to acclimate "
" The families don't speak English well, but they are super friendly "
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REFUGIOS SALKANTAY - Updated 2024 Lodge Reviews (Mollepata, Peru)
Salkantay Trek Without a Tour (or Tent)
Updated: Oct 16, 2022
Hiking the Salkantay Trek & Machu Picchu by Yourself for 5 days
Looking at hiking the Salkantay Trek (with Machu Picchu) without a tour or tent for 5 days but aren't sure where to start? I've put together a complete guide with costs*, accommodation, and everything you should know before starting.
*Disclaimer: cost will depend on accommodation, optional activities, the food you purchase, and the exchange rate.
Table of Contents
1. quick glance, 2. how to get salkantay trek.
3. Trail Information
4. 5-Day Itinerary
Day 1: cusco to soraypampa to laguna humantay, day 2: soraypampa to collpapampa, day 3: collpapampa to lucmabamba, day 4: lucmabamba to aguas calientes, day 5: machu picchu, 5. basic precautions for the salkantay trek without a tour.
Time: 5 days, 4 nights
Distance: ~68km
Trail: Point to point
Difficulty : hard (due to elevation and distance)
What to bring: 2L water, snacks, electrolytes, an extra layer (windy/cool up top), and hiking poles.
Elevation: Starting at 3827m, reaching the highest at 4600m
Other information: No internet for most of the hike, can rent mules to go up/down
Getting to Soraypampa is quite easy and straightforward from Cusco:
Cusco-Mollepata : take a van from the corner of Av. Ayahuasca and Av. Apurimac , before 5:30 am (road conditions and weather can make the trip longer than expected), takes ~2 hrs. The van leaves when full (11 people).
Mollepata-Soraypampa : pay the entrance fee and wait for a taxi or ask a tour van to catch a ride. A taxi can be split between 4 people (wait and see if others that will join) and takes ~1 hr.
You will get dropped off at Refugio Nacho (with all the tour buses) where the trail starts.
Van from Cusco to Mollepata; entrance ticket for Mollepata
3. Trail Information for Salkantay Trek
**Due to the high elevation (over 4200m), it is recommended to stay in Cusco for a few days to acclimatize. Before leaving Cusco, chew some coca leaves or drink tea to help with the altitude. Also, chew/drink some before starting Day 2 up to Salkantay Pass.
Salkantay is a long, hard hike that goes through various altitudes where you will be hiking long distances and long days. Proper rest, hydration, and fuel are needed. You need to realistically look at your fitness level to determine if you can do the entire 68-74km.
There are options to rent mules if the elevation is too much. Check with your guesthouse. There are shops along the way for snacks but I would highly recommend you bring enough to go 4-5 hours without seeing one.
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Distance: ~7km | Time: 3-6 hours | Highest Elevation: 4283 (~450 elevation gain) | Cost: S/.138 ($35.79 USD)
Transportation : from Cusco, take the 11-person van to Mollepata where you will have to take a taxi to Soraypampa (you will get dropped off at Refugio Nacho) to start the trail.
Taxi to Van: S/. 10
Cusco-Mollepata van: S/. 20
Mollepata-Soraypampa taxi: S/. 80 (but can be split between 4 people. We had 3 so it was S/. 27/person)
Mollepata Entrance Ticket: S/. 20
Laguna Humantay : I have written a whole blog about Laguna Humantay but here are a few key points:
Morning tour groups arrive between 8-9:30 am and are gone by noon. Afternoon tour groups start to arrive around 3 pm. The best time to visit Laguna Humantay is between 12-3 pm.
The best time to start hiking is around 10 am (if you want to beat the crowds).
Takes about 4-6 hours to complete (enjoying the views at the top).
There is a little shop at the top that sells snacks, beer, and drinks.
There are mules you can rent if the altitude is too much.
Views of Laguna Humanaty
Accommodation : There are a lot of options for places to stay, depending on what you would like to pay. We stayed at Refugio Nachos in a twin room with a shared bathroom (no hot water). There are 12 rooms with the option of a private bathroom with hot water. They also provided all the meals at an extra cost (which are huge portions). They were nice enough to even make us a breakfast and lunch sandwich for that day. They do have wifi but you need to pay for it (S/. 10 to use, S/. 5 if staying). The cost depends if you are staying there or not.
NOTE : there are limited plug-ins (we used a candle for our light in our room) so charge your things when you can.
Twin Room: S/. 60 twin room (S/.30/person)
Breakfast & lunch sandwich: S/. 8 each
Supper: S/. 15
It does get chilly at night here, make sure you have the appropriate layers especially if you decide to camp.
Inside Refugio Nacho; hot coffee upon arrival
Snacks and supper at Refugio Nacho
Distance: 22km | Time: 8-10 hours | Highest Elevation: 4620 (~660 elevation gain) | Cost: S/.77 ($19.97 USD)
You will want to start early , no later than 6 am as you have a long, hard hike ahead of you. This is where you will be going through the Salkantay Pass, with an elevation of 4600m . I would recommend chewing or sipping some coca leaves before you leave.
There are only a few shops before the Salkantay Pass. When you arrive at Salkantaypampa, this is the last shop for the next 4 hours!
Meals : you will get a very filling breakfast at Refugio Nachos that should last you till the top of the pass. If you want a lunch option, they will make you a takeaway sandwich.
Breakfast: S/.15
Lunch: S/. 10
Salkantay Pass: this will be the hardest part of the day. Not only are you climbing up over 600m, but you are also going to an elevation of 4600 m. Take your time and remember to hydrate. It will take anywhere from 3-5 hours. Enjoy your lunch here and the views.
Walking to Salkantay Pass; at the highest point of the hike
Accommodation : once you have climbed to the highest point, you now have to climb down! It is a gradual down with amazing scenery, going from the snow-capped mountains to the beginning of the jungle. This will take you around 4-5 hours to get to Challway or Collpapampa (there are little towns between to buy snacks/water) but the last 3 km will seem to take forever! These two towns are 1km apart and the majority of people stay in Challway. We opted for Collpapmpa (Camping el Mirador-last place on the right before the bend to leave town) and found a triple room with wifi, supper, and a hot shower but Collpapmpa seems more for people who are camping.
Room with Supper: S/.50
Extra: S/.2 juice box
Supper and room at Camping el Mirador
DAY TRIP TO LAGUNA HUMANTAY WITHOUT A TOUR
Distance: ~17km | Time: 4-6 hours | Highest Elevation: 2900 m (~660 elevation lost) | Cost: S/.150 ($38.90 USD)
You don't have to start as early today but you'll still be putting in the hours. There are 2 options for the trail: 1. You can take the actual trail or 2. You can follow the road. We were accidentally given the wrong instructions and took the road. I'm not sure if that was a blessing in disguise as the others said the trail was really hard with a lot of up-and-down sections. The road is a gradual decline which I think is what we needed after yesterday!
There is a shop called Grenadillas where you can get fresh juice, and snacks or enjoy the hammocks.
Breakfast: S/. 8
Juice at Grenadillas: S/. 5
NOTE : there are a lot of bugs that bite. I highly recommend wearing pants and a long sleeve and bringing bug spray.
Accommodation : we arrived at Lucmabamba and hit the jackpot for accommodation! After what we stayed in last night and for the price, this room seemed like a 5-star! Café Viamonte-Inca Inspired Lodge & Camping is a very up-to-date place with 4 rooms (1 double, 1 twin, and 2 triple) that comes with wifi, hot water, and a towel (free). Roger and his wife are some of the nicest people I have met! She even let us rinse out our smelly shirts, arranged a taxi for us to go to thermals in Santa Teresa, and even let us do a coffee tour that night (Roger's dad owns a coffee farm and it is S/.10/person).
Twin room: S/. 60 (includes supper and breakfast)
Café Viamonte-Inca Inspired Lodge & Camping
Santa Teresa Thermals:
We arrived around noon at Lucmabamba and decided to hit up the thermals to kill some time (and soak our bodies). You will need to take a taxi and the price is split between however many are in the vehicle. The driver will also wait for you there. There are a TON of BUGS ! Our bug spray seemed not to work, so wear long sleeves and pants. At the thermals, there are a few local restaurants to eat at and if you don't have a bathing suit or towel, you can rent one.
Lunch: S/. 15
Beer: S/. 8
Thermals Ticket: S/.10
Taxi S/. 40/way
At night we did a coffee tour and it has to be one of the best experiences I have done! Roger's parents are amazing people and are very passionate about what they do! They show you all the steps of how they collect their coffee, even letting you participate. They sell coffee beans, ground coffee, and amazing coffee liquor (that I had to buy). Roger also has a honey farm and you can purchase his honey there.
Coffee tour at Café Viamonte
Distance: 22 km | Time: 8-10 hours | Highest Elevation: 2800 m (~800 elevation gain) | Cost: S/. 201 ($50.66 USD)
The last day of the hike but also another long one! Eat the hearty breakfast they serve you as you will climb up 700m quickly and descend just as quickly. Bring enough water as the weather is warmer since you're entering the jungle. There are a couple of shops along the way but I would highly recommend stopping at the one just before you reach the top (and after the swing). Enjoy freshly squeezed orange juice with a view.
Freshly squeezed orange juice: S/. 5
Snickers: S/. 7
Once you reach Hidroelectrica, you'll need to sign in and there are many shops to buy snacks at or restaurants to eat at. From Hidroelectrica to Aguas Calientes, it is 10km walking along a rail track and takes about 3 hrs. The rail track is very active , so keep a watch out for trains. This was probably the worse part of the entire trek, I was tired, my feet hurt and I just wanted to be done. It was a long 10kms! Luckily there are a few shops along the way that even serve ice cream!
Gatorade: S/. 5
Ice cream: S/. 5
Accommodation : I've never been so happy to see Aguas Calientes, but once you arrive there, you have unlimited hotel options. Do note that Aguas Calientes is a bit more expensive than other places in Peru. I stayed in Casa Machu Picchu Hostel in a dorm room that had wifi and a hot shower (this is next to the train station and if your room is facing that side, it can be quite loud. My room was facing the river so I don't hear much).
Dorm: S/. 29
Supper: S/. 25
Beer: S/. 15
After walking 68km, it was a pretty early night, and also I had to get up early to go to Machu Picchu. For bus tickets up to Machu Picchu (or you can walk the 10km up), you can buy them the day before or the day off. The ticket office is open from 5 am-9 pm. You will need your passport and they also take credit cards. You can also buy bus tickets at Machu Picchu if you walked up or didn't buy a return.
Bus return to Machu Picchu: S/. 95 ($ 24 USD)*price is given in USD
Cost: S/. 596 ($150.22 USD)
**Tickets for Machu Picchu usually need to be purchased weeks to months in advance . You cannot show up and buy a ticket!** When you purchase your ticket for Machu Picchu, you will need to pick a time and a circuit route. The time on your ticket is the time you need to enter by.
The first bus leaves at 5:30 am but don't worry, they have numerous buses leaving at that time. If you're walking up, Machu Picchu doesn't open until 6 am. If you want a guide, there are many of them waiting at the bus stop or even at Machu Picchu. Guides are a set price, so if you're by yourself, try to find others to split the cost.
If your ticket includes a mountain, do the mountain first before doing the circuit (usually there's a time you need to enter the mountain by).
Machu Picchu Entrance Ticket: S/. 208
Guide: S/. 250 (split between 3 people: S/.80)
Lunch: S/. 25
Views from Machu Picchu Mountain (Circuit 3)
NOTE : you can visit Machu Picchu and get the 3 pm train on the same day. This is what most people who are going back to Cusco (there are also cheaper transport options back). There are 2 train stations in Cusco: Poroy (30 mins from Cusco) and San Pedro (downtown area). Look closely when purchasing your ticket.
Train to Cusco (Poroy): S/. 273 ($69 USD)* price is in USD
Taxi to Cusco: S/. 40 (split by total in the vehicle, S/. 10)
TOTAL COST OF 5D/4N SALKANTY TREK: S/. 1162 ($293 USD)
Per day: S/. 232 ($58.48 USD)
The total cost of this tour was S/. 1162 or $293 USD (S/. 232 or $58.48/day). You can do this cheaper by bringing your own food, and camping equipment, not getting a guide, hiking up to Machu Picchu, and choosing a cheaper transport option back to Cusco.
The Salkantay Trek reaches high elevations and if you're going to do it on your own, here are a couple of precautions to take (here's the whole list ).
1. Be realistic about your fitness especially if you're going to hike it all without help.
2. The highest elevation you will reach is 4600m, you should acclimatize in Cusco first.
3. Drink or chew coca leaves BEFORE you feel the altitude.
4. Hydrate, nutrition, and rest are ALL important!
5. It is not a race, ascend gradually.
6. Know the symptoms of altitude sickness.
There is no internet for most of the hike.
Bring an extra layer as it is cooler, and windier at the top.
Always have 2L of water. There are shops along the way to refill but it can be hours between.
Bring hiking poles to help with the incline/decline.
Always wear sunscreen (bring a hat/sunglasses) and bring bug spray.
Wear proper shoes, it is a rocky trail.
If you have sweaty feet, change your socks during the day or you will get blisters.
Bring a towel or you might be charged for it at the accommodations.
If you plan on going to the thermals, you can rent a bathing suit and towel there.
Bring water tablets to reduce the cost of buying bottled water.
Bring electrolytes (you can buy them at Tatoo Adventure Gear in Cusco). I found they helped a lot.
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5 day, 4 night salkantay trek without a tour or tent.
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Experience the beauty of the Peruvian Andes on our guided Salkantay Trek excursions. Immerse in nature and culture along this stunning hiking route. Enjoy a 4-day, 3-night full-service journey, connecting with local families, Peruvian cuisine, and the essence of the Salkantay Trek. Perfect for time-conscious explorers craving the full Salkantay ...
We did the Salkantay Trek Complete. As inexperienced travelers this was a great option because every aspect of the trek was organized by the company. The families of the Refugio group were extremely welcoming, the food was amazing, and our guide Augustin was incredibly patient and knowledgable. Overall, an amazing experience!
Here is a comparison of these three hikes to Machu Picchu: Salkantay Trek: Distance: 74 km (46 miles) Time: 4-5 days. Altitude: 4,580 meters (15,026 ft) at the highest point. Things to do/see: Humantay Lagoon, Santa Theresa hot springs, Apacheta Pass, views of Salkantay Mountain, ziplining. Price: $550+ USD.
The Salkantay trek is a high altitude 74km/46 miles hike in the Cusco region, Peru. The route starts at Mollepata, a small town 100km from Cusco. It takes you through some incredible nature areas of the Andes with breathtaking scenery and amazing wildlife. Trekking includes a visit to two Inca sites; Llactapata and Machu Picchu both history and ...
Short Salkantay Trek 4 Days: 4-Day Full-Service Salkantay Trek To Machu Picchu: Scenic Adventure. If you are interested in doing the Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu in the Peruvian Andes, Refugios Salkantay offers a complete service from start to finish to ensure an unforgettable experience. It also includes a professional guide during the hike.
March 10, 2024. By Carryn. The 5 day Salkantay Trek is one of the best alternative trails to Machu Picchu in Peru. It takes you to stunning glacier lakes and across snow-capped mountain passes. Along the way, you'll enter cloud forests, walk ancient Inca pathways, and reach Peru's most famous landmark, Machu Picchu.
Day One: Soraypampa - Humantay Lake - Salkantay Pass - Wayracmachay. Distance hiked: 20 kilometers (12.5 miles) Total elevation gain: 1,020 meters (3,346 feet) Total elevation loss: 1,120 meters (3,674 feet) Time on the trail: Around six hours, plus lunch and breaks. Day one starts early.
4 Days / 3 Nights from US$ 520. SHORT SALKANTAY TREK TO MACHU PICCHU. 4.99 (4001 reviews) Book Now. Challenging. Up to 12 people. 6 Days / 5 Nights from US$ 900. SALKANTAY TREK & INCA TRAIL SHORT TO MACHU PICCHU.
Refugios Salkantay, Mollepata: See 214 traveler reviews, 306 candid photos, and great deals for Refugios Salkantay, ranked #1 of 3 specialty lodging in Mollepata and rated 5 of 5 at Tripadvisor.
And so, for a truly breathtaking and adventurous trail to the ancient Inca site, the classic 5-day Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu in Peru is a must. ... Night One - Refugio Laguna de Humantay: Contact: +51 974 588 410 or +51 944 876 371. We also saw a small group of independent hikers rock up and book a night here upon arrival too, should you ...
See photos and read reviews for the Refugios Salkantay rooms in Mollepata, Peru. ... except for maybe Refugio Salkantay signage on the second night's stay and one at Ester's and Fredy''s in Lucmabamba.. ... My husband and I (both 30 yrs old) did the Salkantay Classic Trek 5D/4N Independent. We were very satisfied by the trek and company, it was ...
The Salkantay Trek is a trekking route to arrive to Machu Picchu. It is an alternative to the more famous, but much more regulated Inca Trail, which has a limited number of trekkers allowed per day and gets full months in advance. This is not the case in Salkantay, as there is not a limit in the number of trekkers allowed.
May 9, 2018 By Rory Moulton. An alternative to the permit-required and heavily touristed Inca Trail, the Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu can be attempted in a variety of ways — from DIY camping to 5-star luxury guided — but none offer the ground-level experience of Refugios Salkantay. The team begins the long but mellow ascent to Salkantay Pass.
The Salkantay Trek is a challenging trek in the Andes Mountains range of Peru and offers trekkers the opportunity to experience some of the most breathtaking landscapes in the country. Trekkers who prepare for 5 days of hiking from 12km to 22km (7.5 miles to 13.7 miles) daily, and are in reasonable physical fitness can accomplish this beautiful ...
Refugios Salkantay, Mollepata: See 215 traveler reviews, 306 candid photos, and great deals for Refugios Salkantay, ranked #1 of 3 specialty lodging in Mollepata and rated 5 of 5 at Tripadvisor.
Salkantay Trek In Private Cabins. Experience Salkantay Trek In A Unique Way, Exploring And Discovering Her Secrets While Staying With Local Families. Refugio...
Enjoy the freedom and flexibility of our independent trekking on the Salkantay Trek, one of the most popular trekking routes in the Andes of Peru. With Refugios Salkantay, you will have the opportunity to experience the route independently with 4- and 5-day treks. We provide accommodation equipped with private rooms and private bathrooms, body ...
Trail Information. 4. 5-Day Itinerary. Day 1: Cusco to Soraypampa to Laguna Humantay. Day 2: Soraypampa to Collpapampa. Day 3: Collpapampa to Lucmabamba. Day 4: Lucmabamba to Aguas Calientes. Day 5: Machu Picchu. 5. Basic Precautions for the Salkantay Trek without a Tour.