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Salkantay Trek 9 Days & Rainbow Mountain with Sky Lodge Dome

Tambopata Chuncho Macaw Clay Lick & Sandoval Lake

9 Days from $ 1450.00

Salkantay Trek 9 Days & Rainbow Mountain with Sky Lodge Dome

Salkantay Trek 9 Days & Rainbow Mountain with Sky Lodge Dome

Tambopata Chuncho Macaw Clay Lick & Sandoval Lake

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9 Days from $ 1450.00

Price
$ USD 1 450.00
Duration
9 Days
Physical Level
Moderate
Altitude
3300 mnsn
Accomodation
Glamping
Departures
Daily Departures
Cusco

Overview

One of the most highly recommended experiences in the Cusco region is the Salkantay trek, an adventure that has been included in National Geographic Adventure Magazine’s list of the 25 Best Treks in the World. This trek takes you to Mount Salkantay, which is the highest peak in the Vilcabamba Mountain range and an iconic mountain in the area.

The Salkantay trail offers a unique journey, where hikers approach the mountain from the south for one day and then hike in close proximity to the mountain as they scale the Salkantay Pass on the second day. The pass, located at an altitude of 4,600 meters, offers incredible views of the valley below. The 4-day, 3-night trek is a thrilling adventure that allows you to appreciate the Andean and lush green mountains, streams, rivers, and hot springs that are perfect for rejuvenating your body after a physically demanding walk. As you hike along the mountain paths of the Salkantay tour, you’ll experience a change in temperature and may even encounter snow at one of the highest points of the trek, reaching 4,630 meters (15,228 feet) above sea level.

The trek concludes on the fifth day with an unforgettable grand tour of Machu Picchu City, a fitting end to your extraordinary adventure. The Salkantay trek is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that’s sure to leave you with wonderful memories and stories to share for years to come.

Trip Details

  • STARTING POINT: Pick-up from Cusco & Sacred Valley Hotel/Airbnb. From 4:30 am to 5:00 am
  • ENDING POINT: Drop-off in Cusco at Hotel/Airbnb 10:30 pm
  • DEPARTURE: Daily. If you are a group of 02 we depart (No matter if you have paid as a large group service). We NEVER pass our people onto another operator as most agencies do here in Cusco
  • HIKING DISTANCE: 60.5 km / 37.5 ml
  • PHYSICAL LEVEL: Level 3. Salkantay Trek requires some physical preparation and we also recommend to Aclimatize 2 days before we begin the Salkantay Trek
  • MAXIMUM ALTITUDE: 4,630 m / 15,228 ft
  • TRANSPORTATION: Private Van/Bus to Challacancha (for our Passengers and staff) Tourist Expedition Train Back from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo and Bus back to Cusco
  • ACCOMMODATIONS: 2 nights in Green Eco Dome ( Private Campsite of Domes at Soraypampa and Loreta La Playa), 1 night in the hotel (Aguas Calientes)
  • PORTERING/HORSEBACK SERVICE: 7 Kilos/14 Pounds Extra Portering service is included. We will provide you a duffel bag for your personal Stuff (This will be carried by the porter or Horses), Water Bottle, Rain Poncho & Inca Trail T-shirt at the briefing time
  • MEALS: 4 breakfasts, 4 lunches, 4 dinners, 3 tea times + wake-up teas
  • MACHU PICCHU: Machu Picchu entrance fee Included.
  • DOMESTIC AIRFARE: Flights Lima – Cusco & Cusco Lima Included
  • Day 01: Arrive at Lima & Lima City Tour (Overnight at Hotel Lima).
  • Day 02: Arrive at Cusco & Cusco City Tour (Overnight at Sky Lodge Dome in Cusco).
  • Day 03: Sacred Valley of the Incas (Pisaq, Ollantaytambo Moray & Salt Flats of Maras (Overnight at Hotel in Cusco)
  • Day 04: Cusco – Mollepata – Challacancha – Soraypampa – Humantay Lake – Soraypampa
  • Day 05: Soraypampa – Salkantay Pass – Huayracmachay – Chaullay – La Playa Loreta
  • Day 06: La Playa Loreta – Lucmabamba – Llactapata incan site – Hidroelectrica – Aguas Calientes
  • Day 07: Aguas Calientes – Machupicchu – Aguas Calientes – Ollantaytambo – Cusco
  • Day 08: Cusco – Rainbow Mountain – Cusco
  • Day 09: Flight Back to Lima (End of the Service)
Price from
$ 1450.00
Per person un Private service
Food

8B, 28L, 8D

Asistants

Loal Guide, Private Conductor

Transport

Bus, and Boat

Group Size

Accomodation

Glamping

Physical Level

Moderate

Highlights

  • Sleep in comfort under the stars in our Eco-friendly Sky Green Eco Domes located on the private campsite at Soraypampa and Loreta Campsite. Best Campsites Along the Salkantay Trek.
  • Day 1: Private Soraypampa Campsite at our Green Eco DOME (Glamping Sky Lodge Dome)
  • Day 2: Private Loreta La Playa Campsite at our Green Eco DOME (Glamping Sky Lodge Dome)
  • Day 3: Aguas Calientes Hotel
  • Visit Humantay Lake and Salkantay Lake
  • Hike the Original Inca Trail to the LLactapata Incan site to see Machupicchu.
  • Enjoy the scenic views of Salkantay Snow Mountain
  • Make a small ritual for the Andean gods and learn about the Incan religion
  • Enjoy our friendly customer service and experienced top gQides
  • Eat delicious, freshly prepared Peruvian cuisine (Buffet Peruvian Style Food)
  • Hike through the different types of landscapes and Sceneries, such as cloud forests, highlands, grassy hills, and Andean valleys
  • Reach 4,600 meters (15,000 feet) in elevation along the Salkantay Pass
  • Explore Machu Picchu and the surrounding area with expert and knowledgeable tour top guides
  • Hike one of National Geographic’s 25 “World’s Best Treks”

Kindly take note that we require a minimum of 2 individuals for our tours, and you’re free to choose any day that suits your schedule. We guarantee that all departures will proceed as scheduled once you’ve confirmed your booking with us. To secure your spot and obtain the necessary Inca Trail permits, kindly fill out the booking form and submit a 30% deposit, and you’ll be all set to embark on your adventure.

For those who have limited time to spare for hiking or feel that they may not be physically fit enough for the 4-day Salkantay trek, we have an excellent alternative that might interest you. Our 3-day Salkantay trek and Humantay lake tour includes a train journey from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes, making it an ideal option for those who prefer not to hike for an extended period. Alternatively, we also offer a 2-day Salkantay and Humantay lake tour, where you’ll sleep in our comfortable domes. To learn more about these tours, kindly click here.

Itinerary

DAY 1

Arrive on Lima/City Tour (Overnight at Hotel in Lima)

As soon as you land in Lima, we’ll transport you to your hotel, where you can relax and unwind after your journey. If you arrive during the daytime, your hotel will be located in the vibrant Miraflores district, where you’ll find a plethora of shopping and dining options to explore at your leisure. Later in the day, we’ll take you on a city tour as part of your itinerary, where you’ll get to discover the city’s unique culture and attractions.

However, if your flight arrives late at night, don’t worry, your hotel will be conveniently situated near the airport, so you can get a good night’s rest before your scheduled flight the following day. Whether you arrive during the day or night, we’ll ensure that you have a comfortable stay and a smooth start to your journey.

DAY 2

Arrive on Cusco & City Tour (Overnight Sky Lodge Dome in Cusco)

Upon your arrival in Lima, our team will be waiting to greet you and take you to your hotel, where you can relax and unwind after your journey. If you arrive during the day, you’ll be staying in the bustling Miraflores district, known for its diverse range of shopping and dining options. During your stay, take the opportunity to explore the city’s vibrant cultural scene and attractions on a guided city tour, which is included in your itinerary.

For those arriving late at night, rest assured that your hotel will be conveniently located close to the airport, allowing you to have a peaceful night’s sleep before your scheduled departure the next day. Regardless of your arrival time, we’ll make sure that you have a comfortable stay and a hassle-free start to your journey.

DAY 3

Sacred Valley of the Inkas Pisaq-Ollantaytambo & Chincheros (Overnight Sky Lodge Dome in Cusco)

Your day will start with a delicious breakfast, and at 8:15 am, you’ll be picked up for a full-day excursion to the breathtaking Urubamba Valley. The tour begins with a visit to the vibrant Indian market in Pisac, where you’ll be immersed in the rich tradition and culture of the region. Take some time to interact with local craftsmen and bargain for unique, handmade souvenirs.

Pisac is located at the entrance of the Sacred Valley, just 31 km (19 miles) from Cusco and sitting at an altitude of 2,970 meters (9,700 feet). From Pisac, we’ll travel to Ollantaytambo, one of the oldest continuously occupied towns in the American continent. The narrow streets and Incan channels of Ollantaytambo will transport you to a different era, evoking the town’s ancestral heritage.

After a delicious lunch at a typical restaurant, we’ll continue exploring Ollantaytambo before visiting Chincheros. Our tour will end with a scenic return to Cusco, where you can unwind and reflect on the amazing experiences of the day.

DAY 4

Mollepata – Challacancha – Humantay Lake – Soraypampa (Overnight Sky Lodge Dome in Soraypampa, Humantay Lake)

Our Salkantay trek will kick off with an early morning pickup from your hotel between 4:30 a.m. to 5:00 a.m. After a two-hour scenic drive to Mollepata, we will enjoy a delicious breakfast before proceeding to Challacancha, where we will begin our trek.

As our team prepares for the hike, our skilled cook and horseman will pack up the necessary camping gear and cooking supplies. We will start our trek by tackling a challenging uphill climb for the first three hours until we reach Soraypampa. There, we will indulge in a well-deserved lunch while admiring breathtaking views of snow-capped mountains, including Humantay (4120m/13500ft) and Salkantay (6271m/20575ft).

After lunch, we will make our way to Humantay Lake, a magnificent turquoise lagoon surrounded by towering peaks. Once we have taken in the stunning views, we will return to Soraypampa, our camping spot for the night, located close to the impressive Salkantay snow-capped mountain, the second-highest in Cusco at 3,800 meters (11,750 ft).

On our first day, we will cover a total distance of approximately 15 km, hiking for around 7-8 hours. The highest altitude point we will reach is 3,800 meters, and our campsite will also be at an altitude of 3,800 meters.

DAY 5

Soraypampa – Salkantay Pass – Chaullay – Loreta La playa coffee Camp (Overnight Sky Lodge Dome in Loreta Playa Sahuayaco)

Rise and shine! On day two of our Salkantay adventure, we’ll fuel up with an early breakfast before beginning our longest trekking day. We’ll start walking around 6:00 am to make the most of the day ahead. The first four hours will be a challenging uphill climb to reach the highest point of the Salkantay Trek (4650m/15200ft), which offers an unforgettable panoramic view of the surrounding snow-capped mountains – Salkantay on the right and Tucarhuay on the left.

After taking a break to appreciate the stunning scenery, we’ll continue our journey through a dramatic cloud forest towards Huayracpunku, where we’ll stop for lunch. From there, we’ll head towards the jungle, where we’ll trek until we reach Chaullay. We’ll then take local transportation for about an hour to reach our La Playa Loreta Coffe Campsite. This campsite is strategically located because the next day, we’ll hike up to a mountain to visit one of the most beautiful Inca trail sites – Llactapata, which also provides a breathtaking view of Machu Picchu City.

On the second day, we’ll cover a total distance of approximately 19 km and hike for about 8-9 hours. The maximum altitude point will be approximately 4,650 m, while our campsite altitude will be around 2,750 m. Get ready for an unforgettable adventure!

DAY 6

Loreta La playa – Llactapata – Hidroelectrica – Aguas Calientes (Overnight at Hotel in Aguas Calientes)

We will begin our day with a scrumptious breakfast at 7:00 am, before setting off for the picturesque town of Maras, known for its breathtaking salt mines. The drive from Cusco to Maras is approximately 1.5 hours, and along the way, we will pass through the beautiful countryside, dotted with traditional Andean villages.

On arrival at Maras, we will take a guided tour of the salt mines, which are a marvel of ancient Inca engineering. The salt mines are formed by a complex system of thousands of small channels that bring saltwater from a nearby spring, allowing it to evaporate and leaving behind the salt deposits. After the tour, we will head to the nearby town of Moray, where we will explore the unique Inca terraces. These circular terraces were built by the Incas for experimental agricultural purposes and are a testament to the Incas’ advanced knowledge of agriculture.

After the tour, we will have lunch at a local restaurant before returning to Cusco, where you will have the rest of the day to explore the city on your own or take some rest at your hotel.

Please note: The tour may be affected by weather conditions, which can change rapidly in the Andean region. In case of inclement weather, we may need to modify the itinerary for your safety and enjoyment.

DAY 7

Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu – Ollantaytambo – Cusco!!! (Overnight Sky Lodge Dome in Cusco)

Today is the most anticipated day of the Salkantay trek! We have an early start, waking up at the crack of dawn at 4:00 am and fueling up with a hearty breakfast at 4:30 am. Our mission for the day is to reach Machu Picchu, and there are two ways to do it. We can take a leisurely stroll that will take about 1.5 hours or hop on the first bus at 5:30 am and reach the top in just 25 minutes. Either way, we’ll be greeted with stunning views of the sun-drenched city.

Once we reach Machu Picchu, our guide will lead us on a walking tour for approximately two hours. We’ll get to learn about the city’s rich history and fascinating architecture. After the tour, you’ll have the freedom to explore the city on your own. If you’re feeling adventurous and have some extra energy, you can even attempt to climb Huayna Picchu, which stands at a towering height of 2720m/8890ft. The climb to the summit takes around 45 minutes, but the panoramic views from the top are worth every step.

After soaking in the beauty of Machu Picchu, we’ll begin our descent back to Aguas Calientes. From there, we’ll catch the train to Ollantaytambo and then take the bus back to Cusco. The journey back will be a perfect time to reflect on the incredible experiences we’ve had on the Salkantay trek and to share stories and memories with fellow trekkers.

  • 4TH DAY: Total distance: 6 km approx.)
  • Estimated walking time: 1-2 hours
  • Maximum altitude point: 2,700 m
DAY 8

Cusco – Rainbow Mountain – Cusco (Overnight Sky Lodge Dome in Cusco)

Our adventure begins bright and early as we collect you from your Cusco accommodation. The destination of the day is the magnificent Ausangate mountain, and the journey takes around 3 hours to reach the trailhead in Quesiuno. To fuel up for the trek, we will make a stop at the Inkintuyoc bridge for a continental breakfast.

Once we reach the trailhead, our hike starts, and we’ll be following a stunning stream. You’ll be surrounded by alpacas and llamas, and the views of Ausangate mountain will take your breath away. We’ll pass through quaint villages, interact with locals, and enjoy a deluxe box lunch along the trail.

As we trek further, we’ll witness the traditional potato fields, unique fauna, and even spot chinchillas and vicunas, the only non-domesticated members of the llama family in Peru. Red mountains will also be a highlight of this section of the trek.

After approximately 5 hours of hiking, we’ll finally reach our destination, the awe-inspiring Rainbow Valley (5,020 m / 16,466 ft). The beauty of this natural wonder will leave you speechless, and you’ll have plenty of time to explore and capture memories to last a lifetime. We’ll spend around 30 minutes at the top before beginning our descent along the same route.

The hike down will take around 4 to 5 hours, and our private van will be waiting for us when we return. We’ll then head back to Cusco, and drop you off at your hotel. You can expect to arrive between 5 and 6 PM.

The trek covers a challenging distance of 15 km / 9 ¼ miles, with an elevation range of 4,326 m / 14,189 ft at the lowest point and 5,020 m / 16,466 ft at the highest point. You’ll enjoy a continental breakfast and a box lunch to keep you fuelled throughout the trek.

DAY 9

Transfer to Cusco Airport or Terminal (End of the Service)

We hope you’ve enjoyed your stay with us and are now feeling well-rested and rejuvenated. To ensure that you make it to the airport on time for your flight, we will arrange transportation for you after you’ve had breakfast.

We would also like to offer you the chance to extend your trip with some of our exciting tours and treks. If you’re interested in exploring the fascinating Nazca Lines, immersing yourself in the lush Amazon Rainforest, or experiencing the majestic Colca Canyon, please let us know, and we’ll be more than happy to arrange it for you.

Thank you for choosing to stay with us, and we hope to see you again soon on one of our extended tours.

Inclusions

Included

Domestic Airfares

  • Lima – Cusco
  • Cusco – Lima Airfare

Hotel Nights & Sky Lodges Domes ( breakfast included ) (Lodging)

Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu Includes:

  • Salkantay Trek English Guide
  • Cook in charge of all meals, Porters: To carry camping equipment, portable tables, and chairs, food, and kitchen/cooking equipment
  • Salkantay Permit along with Entrance to Machupicchu, as well as porters/Horsemen permit.
  • 02 Night in Sky Lodge Dome along the Salkantay Trek
  • Private Bus to Challacancha (Trailhead),
  • Return Tourist Expedition Train from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo and Bus back to Cusco.
  • Meals Along the Salkantay Trek: Breakfast (03), Lunch (03), Dinner (03), Morning Snack (03), Afternoon Snack (03)
  • Transfer:
  • Duffel bag and 7 kilos allowance for your personal belongings to be carried by horses

– CUSCO: 06 nights of Sky Lodge Domes accommodation
– AGUAS CALIENTES: 01 night Hotel
– LIMA: 01-night Hotel

– Lima Tours: / City Tour
Lima Tour: Includes Tourist bus & English Guide

– Cusco Tours: / City Tour & Sacred Valley
City Tour: Includes Tourist bus & English Guide (Tourist Attractions to see: Qoricancha, Sacsayhuaman, Qenqo, Pucapucara, Tambomachay)
Sacred Valley of the Incas (Awanacancha, Pisaq, Ollantaytambo & Chincheros)

– Rainbow Mountain Tour: Includes Tourist bus, English Guide, Meals, Sky Lodge and Hike to Rainbow Mountain & Humantay Lake

– Transfers:
Private Lima & Cuzco Airport Transfers
All Transfers Hotel Terminal/Airport Transfers

No Included

  • International Airfares.(Please Give us Details of your Flight Tickets to pick you up from the airport) Flight Number & Company Name.)
  • All airport departure tax – Lima International Departure tax is approximately US$35 and Lima Domestic Departure tax is approximately US$8
  • Additional nights during the trip due to flight cancellations
  • Meals : Allow approx. US$10 US$15 for every meal not included.
  • Sleeping bags US$5 per day & hiking poles are US$ 4 per day (02 poles/black diamond or Leki) and can be easily rented from us. Let us know.
  • The Cuzco Visitor’s Ticket (known as Boleto Turistico – Tourist Pass 130 soles) – which includes entrance to the ruins in and around Cuzco and the Sacred Valley, and many churches and museums in Cuzco.
  • Tips for the guides, porters, and other staff.
  • Lunch and dinner whilst staying at hotels.
  • Alcoholic drinks, tickets for the hot springs at Aguas Calientes
  • Travel Insurance and things of a personal nature – laundry and telephone calls, taxis, souvenirs, etc.
  • We will gladly arrange additional accommodation for you before or after your trip: To Lima/Cuzco/Machu Picchu.
  • Travel and health insurance.(bring  copies with you please): Quechuas Expeditions hly recommend getting insurance of trip cancellation/interruption insurance to protect your travel investment. Included with your pre-departure package, bring your travel insurance to cover trip cancellation, interruption, baggage loss and delay, emergency medical evacuation insurance, and emergency medical expense insurance. Quechuas Expeditions will assist in obtaining all necessary documents for you to be refunded by your insurance company.
  • Any unexpected situations that occurred during the journey and which are beyond our control, including changes in scheduling trains or flights, delays, strikes, cancellations, missed connections, etc.. shall be covered by the passenger as a whole. Also, if you for physical reasons of health cannot continue the trek or walk, and will need emergency evacuation then all charges incurred such as transportation, hotel, ambulance, doctors, medication, hospitalization, etc.. will be at the passenger’s expense.

Pricing List

Group Price

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Number of persons Price per person
Price Per person (Max 12 participants) $100.00 Inquire Now

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Number of persons Price per person
1 Persons $ USD 900.00 Inquire Now
2 Persons $ USD 800.00 Inquire Now
3 Persons $ USD 700.00 Inquire Now
3 Persons $ USD 600.00 Inquire Now
4 Persons $ USD 600.00 Inquire Now

What to Bring

What you need to bring on Salkantay Trek:

Many people assume that South America is hot all year round, but due to the high altitude of the Andes, the temperature can actually feel quite chilly, especially at night. Therefore, we advise using a duffel bag or backpack that is easy for you to carry, along with a well-sized daypack.

List of things you must bring:

  • Original Passport (and some copies) If you have changed your passport Bring a couple of copies of the one that you have used to purchase the inca trail permit.
  • Travel insurance  is essential (and some copies)
  • Airline tickets (and some copies)
  • US$ cash and Credit or debit card (see personal spending money)
  • Any entry visas or vaccination certificates required
  • Camera and Memory cards
  • Rechargeable batteries and adapters
  • Reading/writing material
  • Binoculars
  • Cover for backpacks
  • Pocketknife.
  • Fleece top
  • Windproof/waterproof jacket
  • Small towel and swim wear
  • Shirts/t-shirts
  • Sun hat
  • 2 pairs of shorts
  • 2 pairs of long trousers *zipp off
  • 1 pair hiking pants/track pants
  • Hiking boots/ sturdy walking shoes (with ankle protectors)
  • Knee-length socks (to be used with rubber boots, if provided at the jungle lodge)
  • Sport hiking sandals
  • Sun block
  • Sunglasses
  • Toiletries (biodegradable)
  • Watch or alarm clock
  • Water bottle
  • Purifying tablets or filter (Micropur recommeded)
  • Insect Repellent (for mosquitos)25 % of deet at least you can also by in cusco.
  • Flashlight (head light recommended)
  • Money belt
  • Sleeping silk liner (for sleeping bags)
  • Wool hat, mitts or gloves (preferably waterproof)
  • Rain poncho, plastic bags for your personal stuff to keep dry
  • Sleeping bag (it can be hired form us) we have goose down or syntetic sleeping bag
  • Anti-inflammatory tablets (e.g. Ibuprofen)
  • Thermal underwear
  • Personal first-aid kit (should contain lip salve, Aspirin, Band Aids, anti-histamine, Imodium or similar tablets for mild cases of diarrhoea, re-hydration powder, extra prescription drugs you may be taking)

Travel Guide

About Salkantay trek

The Salkantay Trek is a popular alternative to the Inca Trail for those seeking a challenging and scenic trek to Machu Picchu in Peru. The trek takes you through diverse landscapes, including snow-capped mountains, lush rainforests, and traditional Andean villages, before reaching the famous Inca ruins.

The trek typically lasts five days and four nights, with a total distance of approximately 75 kilometers (47 miles). Along the way, you will reach an altitude of 4,600 meters (15,000 feet) at the Salkantay Pass, which offers spectacular views of the surrounding mountain range.

The Salkantay Trek is considered a moderate to difficult hike, and trekkers are advised to be in good physical condition and acclimatized to the altitude before attempting the trek. Many tour operators offer guided tours with experienced guides who provide information about the local flora and fauna, as well as the cultural significance of the area.

The Salkantay Trek is a popular option for those who are unable to obtain permits for the Inca Trail, which has a limited number of daily permits available. The Salkantay Trek also offers a more remote and less crowded experience than the Inca Trail, with fewer restrictions on group sizes and camping locations.

What to bring to Salkantay Trek?

If you’re planning to embark on the Salkantay Trek, it’s important to pack the right gear to ensure a safe and comfortable journey. Here are some essential items to consider bringing:

  • Good quality hiking boots and socks
  • A waterproof and breathable jacket
  • A warm fleece or down jacket
  • Quick-drying hiking pants or shorts
  • Base layers for warmth and moisture management
  • A hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen for sun protection
  • A comfortable and sturdy backpack for carrying your gear
  • A refillable water bottle or hydration system
  • Trekking poles for balance and support
  • Insect repellent and mosquito netting for the evenings
  • Basic toiletries and medication (e.g. pain relievers, anti-diarrhea medication, etc.)
  • A headlamp or flashlight and extra batteries
  • A camera or smartphone for capturing memories
  • Snacks and energy bars for sustained energy
  • Cash or a credit card for emergency situations or purchasing items along the trail.

It’s important to note that some items, such as sleeping bags and trekking poles, may be available for rent at the start of the trek, so be sure to check with your tour operator before packing. Additionally, be sure to pack everything in a waterproof and durable bag to protect your gear from the elements.

What are the altitudes and distances traveled in the Salkantay trek?

The Salkantay Trek is a high-altitude trek that covers a distance of about 74.5 kilometers (46.3 miles). Here are the key altitudes and distances you can expect to encounter on the trek:

  • Mollepata: 2,800 meters (9,186 feet)
  • Soraypampa: 3,900 meters (12,795 feet) – approximately 8 kilometers (5 miles) from Mollepata
  • Salkantay Pass: 4,630 meters (15,190 feet) – approximately 7 kilometers (4.3 miles) from Soraypampa
  • Wayllabamba: 3,000 meters (9,842 feet) – approximately 19.5 kilometers (12.1 miles) from Salkantay Pass
  • Aguas Calientes: 2,040 meters (6,693 feet) – approximately 41.5 kilometers (25.8 miles) from Wayllabamba

It’s important to note that altitude sickness is a serious concern on the Salkantay Trek, particularly at the high elevations near the Salkantay Pass. It’s recommended that trekkers spend a few days acclimatizing to the altitude before starting the trek, and take proper precautions such as staying hydrated, eating well, and ascending slowly.

How is the weather in the Salkantay trek?

The weather in the Salkantay trek can vary depending on the season and altitude. Generally, the trek covers a range of climates, from hot and humid valleys to chilly and windy mountain passes.

During the dry season (April to October), temperatures can range from 10°C (50°F) to 25°C (77°F) during the day, with colder temperatures at night. However, temperatures can drop below freezing at higher elevations, so it’s important to pack warm layers for the night.

During the rainy season (November to March), temperatures are generally cooler and there is a higher chance of rainfall. Temperatures during the day can range from 5°C (41°F) to 20°C (68°F), and temperatures at night can drop to freezing levels. It’s important to pack waterproof gear and warm layers to protect against the rain and cold.

It’s important to note that weather conditions can change rapidly in the mountains, so it’s recommended to pack for a variety of weather conditions and to check the forecast before embarking on the trek.

Frequently Asked Questions

The Salkantay trek is a 4-day, 3-night hiking expedition that takes you through the Andean mountains in Peru, offering breathtaking views of the iconic Mount Salkantay and Machu Picchu.

The Salkantay trek is a 4-day, 3-night trek covering approximately 74 km or 46 miles.

Yes, the Salkantay trek is considered to be a challenging trek, as it involves hiking at high altitudes with steep ascents and descents.

The best time to do the Salkantay trek is from April to October, which is the dry season in Peru.

The highest altitude on the Salkantay trek is at the Salkantay Pass, which stands at 4,600 meters or 15,091 feet above sea level.

Yes, you need to be physically fit to do the Salkantay trek, as it involves hiking at high altitudes with steep ascents and descents.

You should pack warm clothes, waterproof gear, comfortable hiking shoes, a sleeping bag, a good-sized daypack, and other essentials like sunscreen, insect repellent, and a water bottle.

It is highly recommended to have a guide for the Salkantay trek, as they can provide valuable information about the trail, help with navigation, and ensure your safety.

The Salkantay trek is an alternative trek to the Inca trail, offering different landscapes and scenery. While the Inca trail takes you through ancient Inca ruins and settlements, the Salkantay trek takes you through Andean mountains, cloud forests, and hot springs.

Yes, the Salkantay trek is definitely worth it for adventure seekers and nature lovers. The stunning scenery and challenging hike make for a truly rewarding experience.

The best time to do the Salkantay trek is from April to November, which is the dry season in the Andes.

Yes, altitude sickness is a concern on the Salkantay trek. It is important to acclimatize properly before starting the trek, and to stay hydrated throughout the journey.

Yes, the Salkantay trek is a physically demanding hike, and requires a good level of fitness. It is important to prepare in advance by doing regular exercise and cardio.

The Salkantay trek is home to a variety of wildlife, including Andean condors, llamas, alpacas, and vicuñas.

Yes, camping gear is provided on the Salkantay trek, including tents, sleeping bags, and sleeping mats.

Yes, you can bring your own food and snacks on the Salkantay trek. However, it is important to pack light and only bring what is necessary.

There are no age restrictions for the Salkantay trek, but it is important to keep in mind the physical demands of the hike.

While it is possible to do the Salkantay trek independently, it is recommended to go with a guide for safety and to ensure a smooth experience.

Yes, the Salkantay trek passes through the Inca ruins of Llactapata, and culminates with a visit to Machu Picchu.

Yes, there are many other activities and tours that can be combined with the Salkantay trek, such as visiting the Sacred Valley, exploring Cusco, or taking a boat tour of Lake Titicaca.

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