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What is Salkantay trek?
The Salkantay trek is considered one of the most challenging and demanding trekking routes in the Cusco region. It is the most famous route in Cusco, second only to the Inca Trail. It is also appreciated as one of the best treks in South America due to its breathtaking scenery and varied beauty of its landscapes. Throughout the hike, hikers can appreciate snow-capped mountains, lush green valleys, turquoise lagoons and the transition to the subtropical jungle.
Why is it called Salkantay Trek?
The Salkantay Trek receives its name from the snow-capped Salkantay, an imposing mountain that is part of the majestic Andes Mountain Range. This snow-capped mountain is one of the most outstanding and emblematic points of the trek. With an altitude of approximately 6,271 meters/20,574 feet.
The presence of Salkantay adds an extra dose of excitement to the Salkantay Trek. Hikers have the opportunity to get a close-up view of this imposing mountain, with its glistening snow-capped peaks, glittering glaciers and deep glacial valleys. It is a true delight for nature lovers and trekking enthusiasts.
In addition to its impressive scenic beauty, the snow-capped Salkantay has a cultural and spiritual significance for the local communities that inhabit the region. It is considered a sacred mountain and has been venerated since ancient times.
Follow in the ancient footsteps of times gone by with SAM Travel Peru, a unique off the beaten track journey filled with intense emotion, culture, escalating adventure and the upmost satisfaction. In the trek, conquer the exotic snow capped Salkantay Peak dubbed as the most spectacular peak in the Andes, as you walk in the shadows of this spectacular outstretched mountain and visit two turquoise glacial lakes. You will hike through the puffs of cloud forests and be nurtured in mother natures warmth in her natural hot springs (Cocalmayo). Finally, explore the forgotten Llactapata Inca Ruins and collect your front row tickets to Machu Picchu as you pass through the original Inca Trail to embrace your long awaited dream of seeing the sunrise over the majestic Machu Picchu.
Why you should choose the Salkantay Trek?
- Explore the Humantay Lake (bright blue lake with glaciers & mountains in the backdrop)
- Amazing views including the highest pass and views of Salkantay and Humantay mountain.
- Enjoy majestic glacier mountains, and visit 2 turquoise crystal clear lakes.
- Off the beaten track.
- Visit a coffee plantation, pick your own coffee, roast and grind it and brew your own coffee.
- Soak and relax in natural hot springs and rejuvenate tired sore muscles.
- On our trek experience incredible views of Machu Picchu from the Llactapata Ruins.
- Get into Machu Picchu for Sun Rise and get the guided tour with an expert local guide.
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If you have a love for adventure and enjoying some of the best hiking routes in the world, our Wilderness Salkantay Trek + Short Inca Trail is for you. It combines the most exciting trekking trails with the most incredible scenery you can imagine. Join us on your own, in a couple, or as part of a group.
Wilderness Salkantay Trek + Short Inca Trail-5 Days
The Wilderness Salkantay Trek & Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu is a unique and specially designed trek that takes you around the stunning spectacular peak of Mount Salkantay. Explore the brill ....
HIGHLIGHT OF THE SALKANTAY TREK
Is there any company that may show you absolutely all the highlight of this amazing and unique Salkantay Trek
Mount Salkantay one of the most iconic mountains in the Cusco region and the highest mountain on the Willkapampa range is situated 60km/37mls Northwest of Cusco city standing at (6,271m/20,5741ft).
The Quechua name, Salkantay, means Savage or Wild and lives up to its reputation as being a tough summit to reach. Machu Picchu is located directly north of Salkantay.
The Southern Cross Star is aligned with Machu Picchu’s sundial appearing directly above Salkantay Summit during rainy season. In the past the Incas considered Salkantay to be one of the principal deities controlling weather in the region. Even to this present day Salkantay features very prominently in the local beliefs.
Salkantay Lake
After pacing what feels like an infinite ascension, our heads gradually peep above the rocky earth that was once below our feet. If you have never experienced the wow factor this is the time you will. A panoramic view with a 360 degree of magnificence. Higher than the clouds stand erect multi coloured snow capped mountainous ranges. In the echo of the past, if you listen intently you may hear the sound of avalanches in the distance.
The color turquoise not of this world appears to fill to the brim the ancient glazier lake. Where to look first, no one would know? Just let yourself engulf this moment of unspeakable pleasure. We offer at SAM Travel Peru, the most comprehensive and latest information on the Salkantay trek.
Cloud Forest with undulating Fruit Plantations
The warm air begins to rise from the edge of the jungle, 15 unique eco systems exist accompanied by colourful butterflies and striking orchids. You will discover abundant fruit trees, wild passionfruit, tall banana plantations and delicious star fruit, which is rich in medicinal purposes used for centuries within Peru. Organic coffee plantations is one of the main sources of exportation for Peru which has a faultless reputation, rich in flavour smooth and yummy!!
Hot Springs at Santa Teresa
The Hot Springs are built on the slope of the mountain and resides on the edges of the Urubamba River. The thermal water pools support three pools of different depths and sizes, its water supply varies between 40 º C and 44 º C. It ´s clear waters differ from most other hot springs in Peru. These waters have medicinal properties and are commonly used to treat skin ulcers, rheumatism and common bone and muscle ailments. There are cold jets from the Uripata gaps that provide a feeling of soothing comfort, soft sand at the bottom of the pools, rocks, vegetation, mountains and the sound of the river. Truly a place to revive the body and soul all at once.
Llactapata Inca Ruins
Up and over the hill, you’ll find the highly elevated Llactapata Ruins located on top of a ridge between the valleys of the Aobamba and the Salkantay, 5,000 feet above the estate of Huaquina. A half-cleared ruin wholeheartedly presents our majesty Machu Picchu.
Along the Inca trail, you’ll discover an important Inca rest stop and roadside shrine on the journey to Machu Picchu, fitted out extensively with complex structures and features related to Machu Picchu. You’ll find a network of interrelated ceremonial sites with important astronomical functions during the solstices and equinoxes which supported the regional center at Machu Picchu.
“Llactapata Inca site, Located right in front of Machu Picchu. This will be the first site you see, of the Lost City of the Incas. You will be able to see the Machu Picchu ruins, Huayna Picchu and Machu Picchu mountain from this spot – Greatest lookout point ever”
