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Salkantay Trek

The Salkantay Trek is a 4 to 7-day trekking route to Machu Picchu, traversing the stunning landscapes of the Peruvian Andes, including mountains, valleys, and forests, with views of Mount Salkantay. Culminating in a visit to the ancient Inca ruins, it offers an intense experience of natural beauty and Andean culture.

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Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu

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.

5 Days / 4 Nights Wilderness Salkantay Trek

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 ....

From $787 USD
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Tours to Salkantay Trek

The Salkantay Trek is an unforgettable adventure in the Peruvian Andes, offering a challenging route that takes travelers through a spectrum of breathtaking landscapes, from high snowy peaks to lush tropical forests. During this multi-day hike, trekkers have the opportunity to experience the rich local culture by interacting with indigenous communities, marvel at the imposing summit of Mount Salkantay, cross the impressive Salkantay Pass, and finally reach the iconic archaeological site of Machu Picchu. This journey provides a perfect blend of physical challenge, cultural discovery, and natural beauty, leaving an indelible mark on every adventurer who ventures along this ancient path.

4 Days / 3 Nights salkantay mountain hike
2 Days / 1 Nights humantay lake
4 Days / 3 Nights Camping salkantay trek Wilderness
7 Days / 6 Nights

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 Mt

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.

salkantay-trek-4-day

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!!

salkantay-trekking-sam

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.

hot-spring-salkantay-trek

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”

Everything You Need to Know About the Salkantay Trek

The Salkantay Trek distance ranges from 48-70 km (30-43 miles), spread out accordingly over 3-5 days. However, not all days are created equal. While the first day is generally shorter, at 8-14 kilometers (depending on whether you go up to Humantay Lake or not), the longer days can range from 24-26 km of hiking.

That said, there are different options to decrease the Salkantay Trek distance for those who do not want to hike the whole thing, including horse rentals or taking a train from Hydroelectric Station to Aguas Calientes.

With its wide variety of terrains, the Salkantay Trek elevation ranges from 1,600 to 4,650 meters (5,250-15,255 feet). Although the elevation varies significantly, you’ll start up higher and gradually work your way downhill.

***Before the trek, we do highly recommend taking 1-2 days at a minimum to acclimatize in Cusco, as the maximum Salkantay Trek elevation is significantly higher than in the Cusco city.

The Salkantay Trek difficulty is moderate to difficult, but is attainable for most people with some hiking experience. Also it will be depending your fitness.

Although it is accessible to most levels of hikers with good fitness levels, the altitude, length of trekking each day, and tough uphill/downhill stretches definitely increase the difficulty of this hike. We recommend being fully acclimatized to the altitude before embarking on the Salkantay Trail.

Much like any other multi-day trek, you’ll want to pack as lightly as possible for the Salkantay Trek.

Usually, the tour operators will let you pack a small duffel with some extra clothes and toiletries. These get transported by mule from campsite to campsite. In addition, you’ll want to carry your own day pack with essentials like water, sunscreen, and clothing layers. We do recommend to take 30L hiking backpack.

Some list of what you must packed.

  • Original passport
  • Waterproof hiking boots – Columbia hiking boots are great.
  • 3-4 pairs of thick hiking socks – REI has a fantastic selection of hiking socks, but if you prefer to order online, Smartwool has some great options for men and women.
  • 2-3 sweat-wicking t-shirts or tank tops
  • 1-2 long-sleeve shirts (including a synthetic or Merino wool baselayer if you have one)
  • 1-2 pairs of long pants
  • A thermal jacket
  • A rain shell – North Face rain jackes are greatt
  • A reusable water bottle
  • A head lamp
  • A hat or visor
  • Bug spray and sunscreen (Highly recommneded)
  • Toiletries
  • Sleeping bag – It can be rented from SAM Travel Peru
  • Trekking poles – It can be rented from SAM Travel Peru.
  • Rain gear

There are two main seasons in the sub-tropical Peruvian Andes:

  • The dry season runs from late April through to early October.
  • The wet season starts mid to late October and ends in April.

But, When is the best time of the year to do Salkantay Trek?

The trek can technically be completed all year round, the peak trekking season to Machu Picchu occurs during the dry season and is busiest between May and September. So, the best time of year to do Salkantay Trek run from the shoulder of wet months March/April all the way through to the shoulder of dry months October/November.

Overall, the Salkantay Trek is a memorable, challenging, and jaw-dropping hike that any outdoor or adventure enthusiast would love. If you’re looking for an experience you’ll never forget, and landscapes like none other, the Salkantay Trek definitely won’t disappoint

Cusco offers an extensive network of reasonably priced hotels in the city’s historical part, and you don’t need to stay anywhere on the outskirt to save money when traveling on a budget.

If your hike starts soon, it pays off to learn where’s the meeting point or whether the company offers the pick-up.

Suppose you travel independently to the trailhead, research where’s the closest bus terminal. Also, we recommend staying in a reputable hostel where you can store your luggage safely.

We’ve handpicked the best three hotels in Cusco for every traveler you can use as a base for Salkantay Trek.

Mid-range: Tierra Viva Cusco Centro – This hotel provides a tranquil environment, beautiful rooms and also has one of the top-rated locations in Cusco.

Luxury: JW Marriott El Convento Cusco – The hotel features impressive interiors, has a charming colonial courtyard, luxury rooms, and Cusco’s cathedral or main square are only three blocks away.

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