Salkantay Trek 5 Days / 4 Nights
Discover a world of magical energies and feed your adventurous spirit.
1 Day from $100.00 per person
Salkantay Trek 5 Days / 4 Nights
Discover a world of magical energies and feed your adventurous spirit.
1 Day Short Hike
23 reviews
Overview
OverviewSalkantay, sacred Apu of the Inkas, located in the Vilcabamba mountain range with an elevation of 6271 meters above sea level (“m.a.s.l.”) with a climate ranging from tempered to cold.
The ancient trail of the Inkas from this sacred mountain to Machupicchu is full of culture, ceremonies, nature and adventure.
We are a knowledgeable and passionate team. Since our childhood we have lived with intensity walking through these earthly and spiritual trails and we have thus acquired the experience that makes us specialists in Inka treks and ceremonies.We teach the wisdom and knowledge of Q’ero in a magical environment that will also allow you to enjoy wonderful views of snowy mountain peaks, rivers, cloud forests and orchids.
We design all trips thinking about your enjoyment and your particular needs; taking into account that every person is unique. We therefore offer exclusive group trips in the company of our specialized team and always focusing on social, economic and environmental responsibility.
Itinerary
DAY 1: CUSCO- LAKE HUMANTAY-SORAYPAMPA.
Enjoy an afternoon visit and ceremony at Lake Humantay located at the base of the Apu Humantay mountain. Enjoy your first views of the enigmatic Apu Salkantay.
We start the day by picking you up from your hotel at approximately 05:00 a.m. After the first two hours of driving, we will stop in a small village called Mollepata for a leisurely breakfast. Then, we will continue for another hour to Soraypampa, the starting point of our trek, as we drive and the sun begins to rise over the mountains, the white and snowy peaks of Apus Salkantay and Humantay, two colossal gods of the Incas, will begin to materialize.
The tour takes approximately two hours of walking uphill, once in the lagoon, you will enjoy the serene views of the crystal blue water of the Humantay lagoon and the magnificent ceremonies of personal healing and payment to mother earth for an enjoyable trip to Machupicchu with the permission of the Apus (Sacred Mountains). If the sky is clear, you will see the snow covered peaks.
After breathing the beauty of such a magical place, you will start to return to the starting point Soraypampa for the respective lunch and the deserved rest, in the afternoon you will enjoy an exquisite dinner prepared by our chef and then spend the night in our first camp.
DAY 2: SORAYPAMPA- PASO SALKANTAY- CHAULLAY
Your trekking team will wake you up early with a hot drink to help you start the day. Hopefully, when you open your tent, you will see the sunrise over the peaks of the glaciers and the clouds. You will have time to pack and enjoy a good breakfast prepared by your trekking chef.
Today is the longest and most difficult day of the trek, but also the most beautiful. A challenging day will be climbing the highest point of the trail (4600m). The landscape throughout the day goes from one end to the other; starting from the high Puna covered with Ichu grass, we climb up and pass through the Salkantay pass, where everything is rock and ice, and then descend from the far side to the warm and lush cloud forest below is a 5 km downhill walk to the site for lunch. On the way we will see a variety of wildlife from small finches that crawl at higher altitudes to hummingbirds and toucans in the cloud forest, there is also a chance to see Andean foxes, white-tailed deer and vizcacha (like a Chinchillas rabbit)
Our campsite for tonight is in Chaullay (2800 m.a.s.l.), it is recommended that you put on insect repellent from this point onwards as the mosquitoes in the area have a nasty bite.
DAY 3: CHAULLAY – LA PLAYA
After a delicious breakfast, our destination today is the town of La Playa, about 12 km down the valley from Chaullay. Our route takes us along the Lluskamayo River through an area full of life and which has several coffee and fruit plantations. The scenery in this area is not as impressive as the day before, but the heat and lush vegetation are a breath of fresh air from the high mountains we have left behind.
Tonight we will stay in the village of La Playa (2400 m / 7874 ft) which is well connected and there are many places where you can buy snacks and soft drinks, you can also try some of the locally grown coffee. If you are interested, there is the option of visiting some hot springs that are nearby, inform your guide in advance so that he can arrange this for you.
Day 4: LA PLAYA – HIDROELECTRICA – AGUAS CALIENTES
Today is the final leg of the trek before reaching Aguas Calientes at the base of Machu Picchu. Today’s main focus is a visit to the Inca site of Llactapata sitting on the mountainside at the top. Following an original Inca Trail, we will arrive at Llactapata early in the morning and enjoy the fantastic views of Machu Picchu from here.
After a tour of Llactapata where we will learn about the Inca people and their culture, we will return along the mountainside to the Hydroelectric Station from where we will walk to Aguas Calientes.
DAY 4:HOT WATER, MACHU PICCHU, CUSCO
Today will be the most important day of your expedition, we will take the first bus to Machu Picchu to enter the site when it opens. We will have a 2 hour guided tour of the site during which you will learn about the Incas and visit all the most important areas of the citadel. After your tour, you will have free time to explore the site yourself and if you have permits to climb the Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu mountain.
At the end of the tour, you will have some time for yourself or, if you have organized a hike on Huayna Picchu* (must be booked in advance, as it is sold and costs $75 per person), your guide will show you where to start this hike, which will take no more than 2 hours round trip.
For your return from Machu Picchu, we recommend that you return to Aguas Calientes no later than 2 hours before the departure of your train. The return by train from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo will take approximately 2 hours. In Ollantaytambo, our Mallco staff will be waiting for you at the station exit door, ready to take you back to Cusco by car. The drive to Cusco will take approximately 2 hours and will drop you off at your hotel in Cusco.
Included
Briefing: the night before your trip you will receive the visit of your guide and group at your hotel to get an orientation before your walk. At this time, we will provide you with the canvas bags that our horses will carry. Your bag cannot exceed 7 likos and must include the sleeping bag and air mattress. Your bags will carry all the canvas bags and will only be available at your campsite every day (morning and afternoon). Any items needed while walking should be packed in your backpack.
Transportation: We will pick you up from your hotel in the morning and you will travel by transport to Soraypampa. From here, we will take our transport for a 3.5 hour trip to Glass Cabins in Soraypampa, located at 3,800 meters above sea level. The Expedition Train from Aguas Calientes will also be included. You can also upgrade to the Vistadome train for $75 per person. Once you arrive at the train station, we will take you back to your hotel in Cusco. Also, your bus ticket from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu and back will be included.
Professional Guides: The guides studied English and tourism at the University of Cusco, professionally educated and official. Your guide will explain the culture and surroundings along the entire route, including leading your group in ancient ceremonies! He or she will keep you healthy and ensure that you are safe and happy.
Andean priest: our specialty for the group is an Andean master, shaman who will help you connect with nature and yourself through ceremony to the APUS (sacred mountains) and PACHAMAMA (mother earth) of the Q’eros community (heirs of the Inca culture).
Porters and riders: We include a personal porter, who is responsible for carrying your canvas bag containing your items. There is no additional fee for this. Your canvas bag will be provided at your briefing the night before, and will be filled with the things you will need for the night and the next day. You will not have access to your duffel bag until you arrive at your overnight camp.
Hotel: Alternate hikes end in aguas calientes or earlier, your last night will be at a hotel in town instead of camping. Your two-star hotel is included in the cost of the hike and is based on a shared room. If you wish to upgrade your hotel or prefer a single room there will be an additional cost
Food: Our chefs are professionals who specialize in local and international cuisine. We respect all food restrictions, so be sure to add any on your reservation form and let your guide know at your briefing. The food is usually served family style.You will enjoy breakfast, lunch and dinner every day for the walk along with a happy hour of tea and snacks.
Water: from your first lunch to your last breakfast the chefs will provide you with all the necessary water. This water is boiled, filtered and then cooled before being distributed. You should bring personal water bottles and/or a camelback. We recommend bringing about 3L of value. You will be able to refill your water at each meal.
Emergency Horse: All the treks we offer include an additional horse for our clients that can be ridden if you feel sick or if you are a little slower.
First aid: all the guides receive training in first aid from a doctor we have in the city of Cusco, if tour guide will always have a first aid kit for basic medical situations and essential oxygen, if necessary we will use it more quickly and comfortably.
Camping equipment: dining and kitchen tents, tables, chairs and cooking equipment (all carried by the horses)
Entrance ticket to the archaeological site of Machu Picchu
24 hour guest service: we have a 24 hour telephone service available to facilitate communication and preparation with the agency leading to your trip.
We will create an unforgettable experience
No Included
Travel insurance: It is not mandatory, but it is recommended, for those who live at sea level, to adapt to Cusco will take a period of time. Most people need 1 to 2 days to adapt.
Headlamps: It is recommended to bring a lighthouse for your night camp. There will be no lights at the camp sites and it is difficult to get to your dining tent or bathing tent. Flashlights are acceptable.
Rentals: each hiker needs a sleeping bag when camping, sleeping bag and poles are optional, but recommended. If you do not wish to bring any, they are all available for rent.
Day 1: breakfast
Last day: lunch and dinner in Aguas Calientes.
Personal clothing and equipment
Option: if you feel tired after the walk to and from Llactapata, you have the option of taking a train from Hidroelectrica to Aguas Calientes. (Cost: USD $ 34.00). Additional costs or delays beyond the control of the administration (landscape, bad weather, change of itinerary due to a security problem, illness, change of government policy, political instability/strike, etc.)
Bus ticket from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu ($ USD 12 per person, one way)
Tip: tips are always appreciated and should be based entirely on your satisfaction, even if it may not be customary for you it is of considerable importance to the caregivers.
Travel Guide
Our 5-day Salkantay Trek is a personalized alternative to the usual Inca Trail. This is an innovative adventure for action travelers who desire a little more solitude and off-the-beaten-path tours. With more breathtaking views, the Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu gives you the privacy and peaceful reflection that such a sacred trail deserves.
The legendary Salkantay trail has been chosen as one of the top 25 treks in the world by National Geographic Adventure Travel magazine. It is a trek easily accessible to all, with no limitations or permits required (at least for the moment). The Salkantay Trek 5 days / 4 nights is an ancient and secluded trail, located in the same area as the Inca Trail, where huge icy mountains infringe on the abundant rainforest.
Salkantay Trek Information
The Nevado Salkantay is the highest point of the Cordillera Vilcabamba in the Department of Cusco, Peru. It is the highest mountain in the Machu Picchu area and is the most sacred mountain in the land of the Incas. The name is derived from the Qechua “Sallqa”, which means wild or invincible. This is due to the frequent avalanches that sweep down the mountain and the storms that rise up to engulf the peak from the High Amazon Rainforest in the north.
The best time to climb Nevado Salkantay is from May to September. Depending on the route, it should be tried at different times in those months. Since the first ascent in 1952, Nevado Salkantay has been climbed on the south, east and north sides of the mountain.
The Salkantay Tour is the perfect alternative to the Inca Trail.
The Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu is one of the most interesting and important alternatives to the Inca Trail, due to its wide range of flora diversity, various ecosystems, remote Andean villages, view of the snow-capped mountain of Salkantay, as well as the site of Llactapata, located on top of a mountain, just behind Machu Picchu mountain. This trail finally reaches Aguas Calientes, located at the foot of the historical and archaeological site of Machu Picchu, from where we hike early in the morning to the lost city of the Incas to see the sunrise over it. Then, our tour guide takes us through this incredible Inca citadel.
Salkantay Peru is a 5-day hike through spectacular corners, they say it is the perfect alternative to the well-known Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, but this one is a bit more “adventurous”.
Salkantay Snow-capped Mountain
One of the key features of the Salkantay trek is the mountain that gives the trail its name.
Mount Salkantay (or Nevada Salkantay / Salcantay) is one of the most iconic mountains in the Cusco region and the highest mountain in the Willkapampa range.
Hikers on the Salkantay trail spend one day approaching the mountain from the south and then another day very close to the mountain as they climb the Salkantay pass, which at 4,600 m offers incredible views of the valley.
For mountaineers, Salkantay has a reputation for being a very tough summit. In fact, the Quechua name, Sallqantay, means ‘wild’ or ‘savage’. Although it was first successfully climbed in 1952 by a French-American expedition, the mountain is not usually conquered.
The easiest summit assault pass is around the northeast ridge, which will not be visible on the Classic Salkantay trail, but is visible to hikers on the Salkantay / Inca Trail combo.
Machu Picchu is directly north of Salkantay. Although the mountain is not visible from Machu Picchu, the Southern Cross star formation, when viewed from the Machu Picchu sundial, appears directly over the top of Salkantay during the rainy season.
It is for this reason that the Incas considered Salkantay as one of the main deities that controlled the climate in the region. Even today, Salkantay holds a prominent place in the local beliefs of the people living in the Cusco region.
Location of Nevado Salkantay:
Located 60 km northwest of the city of Cusco, Salkantay, which stands at 6,271 m, is the 12th highest mountain in Peru and the 38th highest in the Andes.
Where does the name “Salkantay” come from?
The name “Salkantay” comes from the words salga, or wild, and antay, or avalanche producer. The locals call it Apu Salkantay, which means “Holy Lord over the valleys”.
The summit of Salkantay
The snow-capped summit of Salkantay contains two peaks, located to the east and west. In the past, the western summit was thinner and more attractive than the eastern one, however, after many years, both peaks are now the same size.
Prices
| Number of persons | Price per person |
GROUP TOUR
Price per person US $ 660.00 (adults)
A group trip that is open for other hikers to join you. This means that in the group you will have the different hiking skills and physical condition.
Important: the price includes up to 7 kilos of your personal belongings to be carried by the mules (you do NOT need to hire additional Porter!).
Prices for private services
– 2 people US $ 895 per person
– 3 people US $ 815 per person
– 4 people US $ 785 per person
– 5 people US $ 745 per person
– 6 people US $ 715 per person
– 7 people US $ 685 per person
– 8+ people US $ 655 per person
Discounts:
Discount of $22 per person
Student discounts apply to anyone who has a valid UNIVERSITY STUDENT CARD at the time of the walk
22 discount per person
Discounts for children under 18 years old, for those who have booked children of 17 years old or less, we need a copy of your passport at the time of booking
HOTEL
The salkantay trek ends at or before Aguas Calientes, meaning that you will spend your last night in the town of Machupicchu instead of camping. This 2 star hotel is included in the cost of the trek and is based on a shared room. If you wish to upgrade your hotel or prefer a single room, there will be an additional cost.
Optional extras (need to book in advance):
– Climbing Machu Picchu Mountain: USD 25.00 (need to book in advance)
– Climbing the Huayna Picchu Mountain: USD 25.00 (you need to book in advance)
– Train Vistadome/ Panoramico 360° Aguas Calientes-Ollantaytambo: USD50.00 (reservation required)
Please confirm if you want to climb Huayna Picchu (the 45 minute climb near the site of Machu Picchu) or Machu Picchu, as they must also be booked well in advance; there are 2 sessions of time:
– 7 to 8 a.m. or
– 10 to 11 a.m., This should also be specified, although you should be flexible at any time.
HOW TO BOOK?
To start the process of your reservation please send us the following information:
Name and surname:
Passport number:
Nationality:
Date of birth:
Sex:
Phone number:
– It is very important that you provide us with your hotel information in Cusco, so that we can pick you up there at the beginning of the tour.
In order to confirm reservations, 50% of the payment is required in advance and the other 50% can be paid upon arrival at your destination.
We have 3 options for you to make the deposit.
- Payment via Western Union in the name of our representative: EDUARDO RICARDO CHURA APAZA – DNI: 43881121 – City: Cusco – Peru. You must send us the MTCN code of your deposit.
- Payment via deposit to the account of our company in the BBVA Banco Continental Current Account: Account Code. Interbank: (CCI) 011 201 000100028495 18 – mallcohuarororunispiritk’intu E.R.I.L SWIFT CODE: BCONPEPL – you must add U$60.00 which is the charge that our bank makes to our account for international transfer and administrative costs, you must also consult your bank about the additional amount it will charge you.
- Payment by credit card VISA – MASTERCARD with the system of PAYPAL generating the order of payment that we would send to him of mallcohuarorunispiritk’intu E.R.I.L If it accepts this option it will have a surcharge of 7% .