Salkantay Trek 5 days

SALKANTAY TREK 5 DAYS  ITINERARY

DAY 1: Cusco – Humantay Lake – Salkantaypampa

Begin your Salkantay Trek 5 Days with a hotel pickup at 05:00 am. We’ll embark on a 3-hour drive to Anta – Mollepata. As you journey, soak in the breathtaking views of the snowcapped Salkantay and Veronica mountains, revered as the Holy Gods of the Incas. You’ll also traverse a range of picturesque landscapes in the upper and lower valleys. After approximately 3.5 hours, we’ll arrive in Soraypampa, where you’ll enjoy facilities and a chef-prepared breakfast. At this point, you’ll meet our support team and finalize equipment and logistics. At around 9:00 a.m., the trek to Humantay Lake (4200 m /13779 ft) begins. The first part of the path is relatively flat, eventually leading to an uphill stretch toward the lake. After exploring the Humantay glacier and lake for about 30 minutes, you’ll hike back to Soraypampa for lunch. After lunch, the journey continues to Salkantaypampa (4150 m / 13615 ft), a location nestled amidst glacier valleys known for its exceptional stargazing opportunities due to minimal ambient light.

• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner.
• Accommodation: Camping.
• Campsite Altitude: 4150 m / 13615 ft.
• Distance Traveled: 10 km/6.214 miles.

DAY 2: Salkantaypampa – Salkantay Pass – Collpapampa

Rise and shine at 5:00 am with a comforting serving of coca tea delivered to your tent. After a speedy packing up and a hearty breakfast, the trek to the Salkantay Trail’s highest point (4620 masl – 15,255 ft) begins. Covering a distance of 5 km, this segment should be completed in about 3 hours. During the ascent through a rocky valley, you’ll be able to witness the majestic Salkantay peak (6217 masl – 20,341 ft) and, if fortunate, spot chinchillas along the trail. Reaching the top, you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking views of the mountains and the awe-inspiring snowy peaks of Salkantay. Salkantay Mountain, the second-highest peak in the Cusco region and revered as “Apu Salkantay,” marks the most challenging part of the entire trek. The next three hours will be spent descending on a serpent-like trail with gravel and rocky paths until we arrive at Huayracmachay, where we’ll have lunch. In the afternoon, we’ll enter the upper part of the rainforest, known as a “cloud forest,” and cover 9 km in 3 hours to reach Ccolpapampa Village (2900 masl – 9,514 ft), our base campsite. During the descent in the second half of the day, you’ll get a chance to observe the lush forest adorned with colorful orchids and native plants. The weather is typically warm and pleasant throughout most of the year.

• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.
• Accommodation: Camping.
• Maximum Altitude: 4650 masl/15.2559 feet.
• Minimum Altitude: 2900 masl/9.5144 feet.
• Distance Traveled: 21 km/13.0488 miles to Chaullay.

DAY 3: Collpapampa – Lucmabamba

Commence your day at approximately 5:30 am with a soothing cup of coca tea. Following breakfast, you’ll embark on a trek toward La Playa. This leg of the journey leads you through a dense jungle, following the banks of the Salkantay River on a gradual trail. Along the route, you’ll stop at various family hamlets to savor local fruits and vegetables such as passion fruit, bananas, coffee, avocados, mangoes, oranges, and papayas. With a bit of luck, you may also spot the famous “Cock of the Rocks” bird. Covering a distance of 16 km and taking about 7 hours, you’ll eventually reach Lucmabamba, a small town enveloped by coffee trees. Here, you’ll have access to basic amenities, including toilets, electricity, shopping, and souvenirs. You’ll also experience coffee harvesting, peeling, roasting, grinding, and ultimately brewing your own espresso in the evening.

• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.
• Accommodation: Camping.
• Maximum Altitude: 2900 masl/9.5144 feet.
• Minimum Altitude: 2100 masl/6.8898 feet.
• Distance Traveled: Approx 16 km/9.9419 miles.

DAY 4: Lucmabamba – Llactapata – Hydroelectric – Aguas Calientes

Today’s journey necessitates an early start to avoid the mid-day heat. While traversing coffee plantations and an artisanal coffee mill, you’ll head towards Llactapata. Here, you’ll follow a well-preserved, original Inca trail once connected to Quito. The trail ascends alongside the ridge, offering views of butterflies, citronella, orchids, rocky streams, and the striking Santa Teresa Valley. Once you reach the pass, you’ll be treated to an awe-inspiring view of Machu Picchu, just as breathtaking as the famed Sungate, Intipunku. You’ll explore Llactapata before descending to the Rio Aobamba and making your way to Hidroelectrica, where you’ll enjoy your final lunch prepared by our remarkable cook. From here, you’ll take a train ride to reach Aguas Calientes. Upon arrival, you’ll check in at your hotel, head out for dinner, and stay overnight.

• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.
• Accommodation: Hotel.
• Maximum Altitude: 2040 masl/6.6929 feet.
• Minimum Altitude: 2900 masl/9.5144 feet.
• Distance Traveled: Approx 24 km/14.9129 miles.

DAY 5: Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu – Ollantaytambo – Cusco

Day 5 marks the most magical moment of your adventure as you visit Machu Picchu. An early start ensures that you catch the sunrise over the ruins. Upon reaching the Machu Picchu checkpoint, you’ll present your passport, then proceed to explore the classical viewpoint. Your guide will accompany you for about 2 hours, explaining the highlights of Machu Picchu. Following the guided tour, you’ll have time to independently explore the ruins or hike Huayna Picchu if you’ve booked this option (a separate entrance ticket costing $65 per person). Eventually, you’ll return to Aguas Calientes and board a train to Ollantaytambo, followed by a bus ride back to Cusco. By around 7 pm, we’ll have you safely back at your hotel.

• Meals: Breakfast.
• Tour: Visit Machu Picchu.

Inclusions

• Private van from your Cusco hotel to Challacancha (the hiking starting point).
• Personal belongings limited to 7 kilograms.
• English-speaking guide equipped with radio communication.
• Professional chef.
• Horseman.
• Hotel pickup and drop-off service.
• Mules for group gear and large duffels (for personal belongings).
• Meal service at campsites (5 breakfasts, 4 lunches, 4 dinners, 4 snacks), with vegetarian, gluten-free, lactose intolerance, and allergy-friendly options.
• Comprehensive dining setup including a large tent, table, stools, cutlery, and kitchen tent.
• 4-season tents for two people (3-person tents used as doubles – Kayla Doite).
• First aid kit with oxygen.
• Round-trip bus ticket between Aguas Calientes and Machu Picchu.
• Foam mattresses.
• Pre-departure Inca Trail briefing at 6:00 pm one day before the trek.
• Entrance fees for Salkantay Mountain and Machu Picchu.
• 3-star hotel accommodation in Aguas Calientes (La Cabaña or similar).
• Return train ticket from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo at 14:55.
• Private van from Ollantaytambo to Cusco.
• Daily hot water bins for client hygiene and comfort.
• Rain poncho for protection against the elements.
• Two-hour guided tour in Machu Picchu.
• Boiled water for refilling your water bottles or Camelback (clean water provided after each meal).
• Day pack cover to safeguard your belongings from rain.
• Wake-up tea delivered to your tent each morning before breakfast.
• Duffle bag for your 7 kg/14 pounds of personal items per person (including personal care items and sleeping bag).

Not Included

• tips
• Snacks and drinks during the tour.

Here’s a packing list for the Salkantay Trek 5 days

• Original Passport and Original Green ISIC international student cards if you are students.
• Water-resistant trekking shoes and sandals.
• Warm clothing (thermal underwear, fleece, hat, gloves, socks).
• Waterproof clothing (poncho).
• Synthetic or cotton clothing (socks, trousers, shorts, t-shirts).
• Sunhat and sunglasses.
• Sun cream and insect repellent.
• Water bottles such as Nalgene.
• Basic medications.
• Walking sticks.
• Swimsuit and towel.
• Personal items.
• Personal snacks.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the 5-day Salkantay Trek?

The 5-day Salkantay Trek is an exciting trekking adventure that takes you through breathtaking landscapes in the Peruvian Andes, culminating in a visit to the majestic citadel of Machu Picchu. The trek follows a route that includes snow-capped mountains, valleys, rainforest and other diverse landscapes.

What is the maximum altitude reached during the trek?

The maximum altitude on the trek is approximately 4,620 meters above sea level, at the Salkantay Pass. This is a crucial point in the trek and offers spectacular views.

What is the best time to do the Salkantay Trek?

The best time to do the Salkantay Trek is during the dry season, which runs from April to October. During these months, the weather is more stable and there is less chance of rain.

Do I need previous trekking experience to do the Salkantay Trek?

No previous trekking experience is required, but it is important to be in good physical shape. The trek can be challenging, and it is necessary to walk long distances and face altitude changes.

What should I pack in my backpack?

You should bring clothing suitable for the weather, a water bottle, sunscreen, insect repellent, a flashlight, a warm jacket and other essentials. Check with your tour provider for a detailed list of what you need.

What is included in the trekking package?

The trekking package usually includes services such as bilingual guides, meals, tents, cooking equipment, transportation and more. Be sure to check with your provider for all the details.

Is it necessary to hire a guide for the Salkantay Trek?

Yes, it is mandatory to have a guide for the trek. The guides are necessary to maintain the safety of the hikers and provide information about the route.

What is the process to book a Salkantay Trek?

To book a Salkantay Trek, generally you must contact a specialized travel agency and provide information about your travel dates. Then, you must pay a deposit to secure your place on the trek.

What happens if I have health problems during the trek?

Travel agencies usually carry a first aid kit and oxygen. If you have health problems, such as altitude sickness, the guides are trained to provide assistance. If the situation is serious, evacuation may be required.

Are permits required for the Salkantay Trek?

Yes, permits are required for the Salkantay Trek. These permits are usually arranged by the travel agency you book your trek with.

Can I do the Salkantay Trek on my own?

It is not recommended to do the Salkantay Trek on your own, as it is a challenging trek and it is necessary to have a guide and permits. Hiring a specialized travel agency is the safest and most convenient way to do the trek.

Does the Salkantay Trek include the visit to Machu Picchu?

Yes, the Salkantay Trek culminates with a visit to Machu Picchu. Normally, the last day of the trek is dedicated to explore this archaeological wonder.