From Cusco: 5-Day Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu
ID: GYG116977-171519
Category:
Country: Peru
Duration:
5 days
Description
The Salkantay trek to Machu Picchu is one of the most popular treks in South America. You will hike for 5 days passing through snow-capped mountains, blue lakes, Inca ruins and the jungle of Cusco.
Day 1 Cusco – Mollepata – Challacancha – Soraypampa
Take an early ride from Cusco to Mollepata. Wake up to the panoramic views of Salkantay, and the magestic mountains of the Apurimac River Valley. Hike up the tall Sayllapata, and ascend ever higher towards the small Soraypampa villages reaching up to 3 850 meters above sea level.
Day 2 Soraypampa – Salkantay Pass – Huayracpunku - Chaullay
Lose yourself in the majestic Peruvian Highlands. As you pass the snow capped Salkantay take a better look at it and its adjacent mountains Humantay and Huayanay. The valleys here are laced with rivers, lakes, and moraines. After a long day, take a much needed lunch break in Huayrachpunku, and then head down to Collpapampa where you will be camping.
Day 3 Chaullay – Collpapampa – La Playa – Santa Teresa (Cocalmayo Hot Spring)
Cross the path from Chaullay to Playa Sahuayaco. On your way pass Collpabamba, a paradise complete with waterfalls, thermal hot springs, fruit-bearing trees, varied flora and many magnificent birds. Finish a long day of walking with a leisurely evening in Santa Teresa, and its luxurious hot springs.
Day 4 Santa Teresa – Hidroelectryc – Aguas Calientes
Follow the trail to the small village of Colpani. As you walk you will see the luscious coffee, banana, and passion fruit plantations. Trace the banks of the Vilcanota River until you arrive at a break in the woods. Hike the rest of the way, or take a small car to Hidroelectirca. From Hidroelectrica you will be able to see views of the Machu Picchu sanctuary. Spend the night at Aguas Calientes, dipping in the famous hot springs, or taking a stroll around the town.
Day 5 Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu – Ollantaytambo – Cusco
Arrive at Machu Picchu early in the morning and enjoy an intimate tour of the ruins with your professional guide. Explore the citadel on your own. If you have a sense of adventure you may go up the Huaynapicchu mountain or climb the taller face of Machu Picchu. You will return to Cusco late in the evening.
Highlights
- Ascend the Sayllapata for some fresh mountain air
- Lose yourself in the majestic Peruvian highlands
- Trek through the paradise like Collpabamba
- Trace the banks of the Vilcanota River
- Arrive at Machu Picchu at first light
Guiding languages
IMPORTANT INFORMATION
• An additional night in Aguas Calientes may be arranged upon request
• There is a maximum weight of 6 kg per person for baggage
• Dietary requirements can be catered for
• You are able to rent a -20°C sleeping bag for US$5 per day
All areas that customers touch are frequently cleaned
You must keep social distance while in vehicles
The number of visitors is limited to reduce crowds
You must bring your own headphones
You are required to bring and wear a mask
You must fill out a travel information form
You will receive a mandatory temperature check
Please provide your hotel’s name and address in Cusco center. Please indicate if you are staying at a private accommodation (with address), you will then be provided with a meeting point close by.
When should I book?
To guarantee availability book as soon as possible. Early booking is worth consideration especially if you planning the trip during high season like public holidays or weekends.
Cancellations
Cancellation is not possible. If you cancel it anyway or not show up on the excursion you will still be charged the full price of the activity and the money you paid will not be refunded.
