Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu 5 Days
PRICE FROM:
$ 350,00 USD
Per person
- OVERVIEW
Embark on the Salkantay route, recognized by National Geographic as one of the 20 best hikes in the world. For 5 days, you will travel from the Humantay lagoon to the Amazon rainforest, passing by the snowy Salkantay mountain and coffee fields.
The experience includes panoramic views of Machu Picchu from the Llactapata Inca Trail, plus stops at the Santa Teresa hot springs. At our Agency we offer exclusive camps such as Quiswarniyoc and glass domes for a unique experience, along with expert guides and gourmet cuisine.
Package includes:
- Entrance to Machu Picchu (circuits 1, 2 or 4) and the option of more complete tickets at an additional cost.
- Pre-tour briefing in Cusco and free storage service for extra luggage.
- Pick-up service from your hotel and duffel bag for your belongings (up to 7 kg), which will be transported by horse.
For more information and reservations, contact us at booking@mendozatoursperu.com.
1 FULL DAY TOUR
PRICE FROM $350.00 per person
Places to visit:
Mount Salkantay, Humantay Lake, Salkantay Lake, Llactapata Inca Site, Santa Teresa Hot Springs, Machu Picchu
Group size:
MAX: 10 people
Physical level:
Easy
Departures:
Daily departures
- TRIP ITINERARY
Day 1: CUSCO, EXPLORATION OF LAKE HUMANTAY AND CAMPING IN QUISWARNIYOC
- The Salkantay trek to Machu Picchu begins in Cusco with hotel pickups scheduled between 4:30 and 5:00 a.m. During this period, the guide will pick up the participants at their respective hotels in Cusco. After gathering the group, he will depart from Cusco around 5:15 a.m., heading to the Mollepata village by car, a trip of approximately 2 hours. Upon arrival in Mollepata, you will enjoy a hearty breakfast at one of the local restaurants, included in the tour. Typically, the stay in Mollepata, including breakfast and shopping for last-minute supplies, lasts about an hour.
- After breakfast, The journey continues by car to Soraypampa for another hour. Once in Soraypampa, you will meet the team of muleteers and horses, marking the start of the Salkantay trek. Before starting the trek, all equipment and duffel bags will be given to the muleteers and horses. The trek from Soraypampa to the Humantay lagoon begins at an elevation of 3,900 meters and ascends to 4,200 meters, the location of the lagoon. The initial part of the trek involves a gradual ascent for about an hour, followed by a steeper climb for the last hour. The total hike to the lagoon takes about 2 hours.
- Arriving at the Humantay lagoon , you will have free time to enjoy the stunning views, take pictures and listen to the guide’s explanations. The stay at the lagoon usually lasts between 1 and 1.5 hours, weather permitting. After visiting the lagoon, the descent to the Quiswarniyoc camp begins. This part of the hike involves a 1-hour downhill walk followed by a 45-minute almost flat walk.
- Upon arriving at the Quiswarniyoc camp , usually around 2:00 p.m., you will be offered a delicious lunch prepared by the kitchen team. After lunch, the guide will accompany you to your respective dormitories for a well-deserved rest. The afternoon, after lunch, is free of scheduled hikes, allowing you to take short walks and explore the vast Quiswarniyoc area, enjoying the imposing views of Salkantay, which looms directly in front of the camp. Around 6:00 p.m., a hot dinner will be served. After dinner, you will receive important information about day 02 of the hike, which involves reaching the highest point of the entire route.
SUMMARY OF DAY 01:
- Meals included: breakfast, lunch and dinner.
- Accommodation: Mountain Sky Cabin
- Difficulty level: moderate
- Walking distance: 10 kilometers (approximately 6 miles)
- Estimated trekking duration: 5 to 6 hours
- Campsite altitude: 4,000 meters above sea level
- Weather forecast: Cold and windy nights are expected during the dry season (May to August), with temperatures potentially dropping to -5 degrees Celsius.
- Additional note: This day serves as a training and preparation period. It is ideal for acclimatizing for day 02, which is the greatest challenge of the entire route.
Day 2: QUISWARNIYOC, ASCENT TO THE HIGHEST POINT, SALKANTAY PASS AT 4700 METERS, AND THEN DESCENT TO CHAWLLAY CAMP
Early morning departure:
The day starts at 5 a.m. and the kitchen team will serve you a coca leaf tea, known as “te despertar,” to help you adjust to the altitude. You will have approximately 30 minutes to prepare and pack your equipment for the day ahead..
Breakfast:
Breakfast is served at 5:30 AM, giving you time to eat, make last-minute checks on your backpack, and use the bathroom before setting off on the hike to the Salkantay Pass, the highest point of the trip.
Ascent to the Salkantay Pass:
At around 6 a.m., the hike begins from Quiswarniyoc to the Salkantay Pass, which is 4,700 meters above sea level. The climb takes between 3 and 3.5 hours with constant breaks every hour to rest and replenish strength. The climb can be achieved with proper acclimatization, although the main challenge is adapting to the altitude.
Time at the Salkantay Pass:
Once at the top, you’ll have time to admire the stunning views, take photographs of the surrounding mountains, and learn more about the area from your guide. A local ritual to honor the mountain gods, or Apus, may be part of the experience. You’ll spend between 30 and 45 minutes at the summit.
Descent to Lunch:
The descent from the Salkantay Pass to the lunch spot in Wayracmachay takes approximately 2 hours. Upon arrival, you will enjoy a nutritious meal prepared by the kitchen team.
Post-lunch break and second descent:
After lunch, weather permitting, you will have a short break before continuing the hike. The final descent of the day from Wayracmachay to the second camp at Chawllay takes between 2.5 and 3 hours. Although it is a bit steep, this stretch offers stunning views as you pass from the Andes to the edge of the Amazon.
Arrival at Chawllay:
Once you reach Chawllay, at 2900 meters, your guide will accompany you to your accommodation. The day ends with a delicious dinner, which puts the finishing touch to a second day of challenging but rewarding hiking.
Summary of day 02:
- Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
- Accommodation: Mountain Sky Cabin
- Difficulty level: challenging
- Maximum altitude: 4,700 meters at the Salkantay Pass
- Hiking distance: 22 kilometers (approximately 14 miles)
- Estimated trekking duration: 9 to 10 hours
- Campsite altitude: 2,900 meters
- Weather forecast: Warm and hot at lower elevations
- Additional note: This is the most difficult but most beautiful day of the hike, offering incredible views of the mountains.
Day 3: EXPLORATION OF THE SANTA TERESA VALLEY: LUCMABAMBA CAMP AND SANTA TERESA HOT SPRINGS
Morning routine:
Your day starts at 5:30am with a wake-up tea provided by the kitchen team to help you get started on your day. You will have time to prepare for the hike. Breakfast is served at 6:00am to give you energy for the journey ahead.
Hike from Chaullay to Lucmabamba:
At around 6:30 a.m., the hike begins from Chawllay towards the third camp, Lucmabamba. This 5-hour hike takes you through the relatively flat terrain of the Santa Teresa Valley, giving you the opportunity to explore the diversity of plants and animals. The hike ends with a special coffee tour upon arrival in Lucmabamba.
Coffee Tour Experience:
In Lucmabamba, you will visit a local family to take part in a coffee tour. You will learn about the coffee making process and taste the famous Santa Teresa coffee.
Lunch in Lucmabamba:
After the coffee tour, return to camp for a delicious and hearty lunch prepared by the kitchen team. The rest of the afternoon is free to relax or you can opt for some additional activity.
Afternoon options:
You can choose to relax at the Lucmabamba campsite or visit the Santa Teresa hot springs, a relaxing experience after days of hiking. The optional visit costs around 40 soles, including transportation and the 10 soles entrance fee. Your guide will help you coordinate this option if you decide to go.
Visit to the Santa Teresa Hot Springs:
If you decide to visit the hot springs, local transportation will take you there, where you can relax for about 2 hours before returning to camp.
Dinner and preparation for the next day:
After returning to the Lucmabamba camp, dinner is served at 7:00 p.m. Later, your guide will brief you on the next day’s hike, which leads to the town of Aguas Calientes, the base for visiting Machu Picchu.
Summary of day 03:
- Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
- Accommodation: Tents
- Difficulty level: Easy Day hike
- Hiking distance: 16 kilometers (approximately 10 miles)
- Estimated trekking duration: 5 to 6 hours
- Camping altitude: 2,000 meters
- Weather forecast: hot and humid during the day, cold at night.
- Additional note: This day offers a relaxed hike through the Amazonian landscape, with a coffee tour and an optional visit to the Santa Teresa hot springs.
Day 4: TREKKING THE INCA TRAIL TO LLACTAPATA, EXPLORING INCA RUINS AND MACHU PICCHU VIEWPOINT, HIKE TO AGUAS CALIENTES
Morning Routine:
You will be woken up at 6:00 a.m., which will give you time to pack your belongings. Breakfast will be served at 6:30 a.m. and the hike will begin around 7:00 a.m. from the Lucmabamba campsite to the Llactapata archaeological site.
Hike to Llactapata:
The hike involves a 3-hour ascent along an original and well-preserved Inca trail that leads to the small archaeological site of Llactapata. From here, you will enjoy a unique view of Machu Picchu, Waynapicchu and the surrounding mountains, giving you a different perspective on Machu Picchu’s location in the Andes. You will have time to explore the ruins of Llactapata and appreciate the stunning views before descending towards Hidroeléctrica.
Descent to the Hydroelectric Power Station:
The trail from Llactapata to the Hydroelectric Power Plant is relatively steep, making it the steepest descent of the hike. Trekking poles will be especially useful during this stretch. It will take approximately 2 hours to reach the hydroelectric power plant, where a stop will be made for lunch.
Lunch and Rest at Hydroelectric Power Plant:
Upon arrival at the hydroelectric power station, you will enjoy a delicious meal at a local restaurant. After lunch, you will have some time to relax before continuing your journey to Aguas Calientes.
Final hike to Aguas Calientes:
The final stage of the day consists of a 3-hour hike along the railway from the hydroelectric station to Aguas Calientes, the base town of Machu Picchu. During this hike, you will be able to see Machu Picchu from the valley below. Once you arrive in Aguas Calientes, your guide will escort you to your lodge for the night, where you can rest, shower, and prepare for your final dinner in the town.
Dinner in Aguas Calientes:
Dinner is scheduled for approximately 7:00 pm at a local restaurant. After lunch, you can make final preparations for the next day’s adventure in Machu Picchu.
Summary of day 04:
- Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
- Accommodation: Overnight in hotel in Aguas Calientes.
- Difficulty level: challenging
- Hiking distance: 24 kilometers (approximately 15 miles)
- Estimated trekking duration: 8 to 9 hours
- Maximum Altitude: 2,700 meters in Llactapata
- Altitude of Aguas Calientes base town: 2,000 meters
- Weather forecast: hot
- Additional note: This day of the Salkantay Trek combines historical exploration at the Llactapata archaeological site with a scenic descent through the Amazon rainforest, culminating in a relaxing afternoon in Aguas Calientes, where you will prepare for your visit to Machu Picchu. The trail and site are nestled in the lush vegetation of the Peruvian Amazon, offering a sense of untouched nature waiting to be explored.
Day 5: EXPLORE MACHU PICCHU AND TRAVEL TO CUSCO - AN UNFORGETTABLE ADVENTURE
Last day of the tour: Exploring Machu Picchu
The last day of our tour promises an exciting experience as we visit the long-awaited Machu Picchu. We will wake up at dawn, around 4:00 a.m., and enjoy breakfast at the hotel. At 4:30 a.m., we will begin our hike to the Inca citadel. The drive from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu takes approximately 1.5 hours. This hike includes a 30-minute flat section followed by an hour-long climb up historic stone stairs that lead directly to the main entrance of Machu Picchu.
Alternative Route: Bus to Machu Picchu
For those who prefer a less strenuous option, there is the possibility of taking a bus from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu. This convenient option can be booked the night before or the morning of your visit. The first buses leave Aguas Calientes at 5:30 a.m. and the trip takes 25 minutes and costs $12.
Arrival and entry procedures
Our goal is to arrive at the entrance of Machu Picchu by 6:00 AM, regardless of whether we walk or take the bus. At the main checkpoint, you must present your original Machu Picchu tickets and passports. If you booked as a student, make sure you have your original student ID.
Guided tour to Machu Picchu
Once we have passed through the entrance, we will head to the top of Machu Picchu to take iconic photographs. You will have time to capture stunning images and enjoy breathtaking views. Our expert guide will take you on a 2.5-hour tour of the Inca citadel, where he will reveal the secrets and history that make Machu Picchu a world wonder.
Independent exploration time
After the guided tour, you will have approximately 30 minutes to explore the circuit on your own. Please note that the maximum time allowed to visit Machu Picchu is 3 hours, according to park regulations.
Post-visit itineraries
After visiting Machu Picchu, the trip continues, but each member of the group will follow their individual itinerary based on the options selected during the reservation. Those who have reserved tickets for Waynapicchu or Machu Picchu Mountain will receive guidance from our guide on how to access these entry points. Please note that these tickets must be reserved in advance through Reservas Machu Picchu.
Return options to Cusco
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Return option by car: If you choose to return by car, you will begin with a roughly 3-hour hike from Machu Picchu to Hidroeléctrica. Make sure to arrive at Hidroeléctrica at 2:30 p.m. to take the car back to Cusco. This trip takes approximately 6 hours, with an estimated arrival time in Cusco around 10:00 p.m., and will end at Plaza Regocijo in the city center. Please note that this option does not allow enough time for additional hikes to Waynapicchu or Machu Picchu Mountain, which require around 3 additional hours. To take the car at 2:30 p.m. to Hidroeléctrica, it is advisable to leave Machu Picchu no later than 11:30 a.m.
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Return option by train: If you opt for the train, you will first need to return to Aguas Calientes. This can be done via a 1.5-hour walk or a 25-minute bus ride for $12. Once in Aguas Calientes, you will have some time to explore the town and perhaps have lunch, as the final meal is not included in the tour. Then, head to the train station to take the 2:30 or 3:30 p.m. train to Ollantaytambo, which takes approximately 1.5 hours. Upon arrival in Ollantaytambo, our shuttle will be ready to take you back to Cusco by car, a trip of approximately 2 hours, arriving around 6:30 p.m. The train option allows for more time at Machu Picchu and is suitable for those who wish to partake in the optional mountain hikes. It also offers a quicker and more comfortable return to Cusco, minimizing fatigue.
Important Note: Itinerary for the Last Day in Machu Picchu
The itinerary for the last day depends on the availability of tickets to Machu Picchu. The proposed schedule works well with tickets for Circuit 02, which has entry times at 6, 7 or 8 a.m.; check availability at www.machupicchu.gob.pe . Si los boletos para el Circuito 02 no están disponibles para esos horarios de ingreso al momento de su reserva, será necesario realizar ajustes al itinerario. Para opciones alternativas en tales casos, especialmente si los horarios de ingreso de la mañana están completos o no están disponibles, consulte el siguiente enlace: Alternative itinerary options for visiting Machu Picchu. This link will provide you with guidance on possible alternatives, ensuring you have a satisfying experience at Machu Picchu, even with changes in the tour schedule or availability.
- INCLUDE / NOT INCLUDE
- INCLUDE
Inclusions for the 5-day Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu:
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Tickets to Machu Picchu included: The price of the Salkantay Trek package includes an entrance to Machu Picchu, regardless of whether you choose to return by car or train. This ticket usually allows access to Llaqta Machu Picchu Circuit 02 (more information here), subject to availability at the time of your booking. If Circuit 02 is not available, we will arrange an alternative such as Circuit 01, 03 or 04. For more details, [haga clic aquí].
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Pre-trekking briefing: Please attend our briefing the day before your departure at 7:00 PM at the Machu Picchu Reservation Office. If you are unable to attend in person, please contact us at +51974217700 to schedule a virtual session. Please contact us at least 48 hours in advance to arrange a personalized session with your guide.
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7-kilo canvas bag service: During the briefing, you will receive a duffel bag to pack up to 7 kilos of your belongings. Our team will transport these duffel bags on horses throughout the tour, allowing you to walk comfortably with just a backpack. Once your hike is over, you can drop off the duffel bags at the Machu Picchu Reservations office upon your return to Cusco.
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Experienced guides: Our tours are led by official bilingual (English and Spanish) tour guides. All guides working with Reservaciones Machu Picchu are licensed by the Peruvian government and have been trained at recognized universities or tourism institutes in Peru, ensuring a professional and knowledgeable guide throughout your trip.
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Equipo de cocina: A chef and kitchen assistants will prepare the delicious meals you’ll enjoy on the Salkantay route. Trained to properly handle food in remote locations, these cooks excel at creating balanced, nutritious dishes to energize every adventurer. They are experts at creating vegetarian or vegan options and will pay attention to any allergies or specific dietary restrictions you may have.
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Kitchen Equipment and Utensils: We provide all the kitchen equipment and utensils necessary to prepare and serve meals, ensuring they are transported to each campsite so you can enjoy your meal in optimal conditions.
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Team of muleteers and horses: Our team of muleteers and horses are essential to a smooth journey. They are responsible for the careful transport of all equipment and personal luggage to each camp, including food, camping gear, sleeping bags, and 7kg duffel bags. They expertly organize and manage luggage to ensure on-time delivery to each camp, even preparing for adverse weather conditions. With their hard work, you can focus on the journey while your belongings are handled safely and efficiently.
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Convenient Hotel Pickup Service (4:30-5:00 AM) – Begin your tour easily with our pickup service directly from your Cusco hotel or Airbnb. Our team ensures a quick and smooth start between 4:30-5:00 AM, allowing you to fully focus on the excitement of your upcoming adventure.
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Private group transportation: Our service includes private transportation for your group from Cusco to the starting point of the trek in Soraypampa. You will travel in a comfortable tour vehicle from Cusco city directly to Soraypampa, where you will meet the support team to begin your trekking adventure. This car ride takes approximately 3 hours, offering a convenient and efficient way to begin your trek with ease and comfort.
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Meals and snacks: Our tour offers a complete gastronomic experience with 4 nutritious lunches, 4 delicious dinners and 5 comforting breakfasts, ensuring that you are well-fuelled for the trek. Additionally, we provide morning teas and snacks at the camps for an added boost. Notably, the first breakfast is also included in your package. All these meals are carefully prepared by our expert kitchen team to offer you a combination of flavour and energy essential for your journey.
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Accommodation included: Enjoy nature with our carefully arranged accommodation on the 5-day tour. You will spend 2 nights in spacious panoramic cabins, a magical night under the stars in a glass dome, and conclude with a warm stay in a cozy lodge in Aguas Calientes. Our camping accommodation is spacious and can comfortably accommodate 4 people, but we normally allocate it to just 2 for privacy and comfort. We are flexible and can accommodate groups of 3 or 4 people who wish to stay together. Each site is equipped with comfortable mattresses and pillows for a restful night’s sleep. Just remember to bring or rent a sleeping bag. Expect a serene and cozy retreat, deeply connected to the scenic wonders of your trip.
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Hostel accommodation in Aguas Calientes: Spend a rejuvenating night in a cozy lodge in Aguas Calientes, also known as the town of Machu Picchu, the gateway to the iconic Incan citadel. Our selected lodges offer a variety of comfortable rooms with private bathrooms, hot showers and Wi-Fi access, for couples or groups with double and triple room options. This relaxing environment offers all the essential amenities to rest and refresh after your hike, setting you up perfectly for your visit to the magnificent Machu Picchu.
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Guided tour to Machu Picchu: Your package includes a scheduled 3-hour visit to Machu Picchu, which includes an extensive 2.5-hour guided tour by one of our expert guides. This tour is designed to enrich your understanding of this historic site and is tailored to the entry time and circuit of your ticket. After the interesting exploration, enjoy 30 minutes of personal time to absorb the beauty of Machu Picchu before continuing your journey.
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Return travel options from Machu Picchu: Regardless of whether you choose to return by car or train, the return trip is included after your visit to Machu Picchu.
- Train option: Your train ticket is normally for 2:30 p.m., 2:55 p.m., or 3:20 p.m., depending on availability. To catch the train, return to Aguas Calientes by either walking for an hour or taking a $12 bus ride. Spend some time exploring the picturesque town, having lunch, and relaxing. Arrive at the train station 30 minutes before departure. The train ride takes around 1.5 hours to Ollantaytambo, where a Machu Picchu Reservations transfer with your name on it awaits you. You will then travel by car back to Cusco for an additional 2 hours, with a drop-off at Plaza Regocijo, marking the end of your tour. You can expect to be back in Cusco around 6:30 p.m.
- Car option: If you choose the car option, begin a 3-hour hike from Machu Picchu to the hydroelectric station, starting no later than 11 a.m. This hike involves an initial 30- to 40-minute descent and about 1.5 to 2 hours of flat terrain along the train tracks. Arrive at the hydroelectric station at 2:30 p.m. to catch the 3 p.m. car. The car ride takes about 6 to 7 hours, returning you to Cusco at about 10 p.m., with a final stop at Plaza Regocijo in the city center.
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Vegetarian and vegan food options: We offer vegetarian and vegan meal options, and can also accommodate dietary restrictions such as gluten-free options at no extra cost. Just let us know when making your reservation.
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Emergency Supplies: To prepare for urgent situations, our tour guides are equipped with an essential oxygen bottle and a fully stocked first aid kit for immediate assistance during the trek.
- NOT INCLUDE
Services Not Included in the Salkantay Trek Package and Optional Expenses:
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Entrance ticket to Humantay Lagoon: The first day of the hike is to visit the Humantay Lagoon, which requires an entrance ticket that is paid to the local government of Mollepata. The cost is 20 soles for foreigners (approximately $6) and 10 soles for Peruvians (approximately $3). Payment is made in cash and in soles upon entering the lagoon.
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Sleeping bag: If you do not have a sleeping bag suitable for the mountains, you can rent one from us. The sleeping bags we offer are specially designed to withstand the low temperatures of the Salkantay Trek, up to 10 degrees below zero. The rental cost is $10 for the entire route.
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Trekking poles: You can rent a pair of professional trekking poles from our shop. These poles are adjustable according to the type of terrain and are very useful, especially on steep and uneven terrain. They optimize your performance and the rental cost is $10 for the entire trek.
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Bottled drinking water: We do not include refilling of water bottles, but we do provide water for hot and cold drinks at every meal. For bottled water, you have two options: buy mineral water in small shops along the Salkantay Trail, with prices ranging from 5 to 12 soles per 2.5 liter bottle, or bring a filter or purification tablets for mountain water.
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Santa Teresa Hot Springs: On the third day you will have free time and the option to visit the Santa Teresa hot springs. After 3 days of trekking, it is a great way to relax. If you choose this option, transportation from the camp to the baths is arranged. The journey takes about an hour and costs a total of about 40 soles, including round trip and entrance. This payment is made directly on site.
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Internet connection: There is no cell signal from 9am on the first day until you reach the second camp. At this camp, Wi-Fi is available for 10 soles. After the third day, you will usually have cell signal and internet access.
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Showers and toilets along the way: Bathrooms are available at the campsites free of charge, but locals may charge 1 sol for the use of theirs along the trail. As for showers, the second campsite offers hot showers for 10 soles, while cold showers are free. You also have the option of visiting the hot springs on the third day or using the hot showers at the Aguas Calientes lodge on the fourth day. Showers are generally not available at the first campsite due to the low temperatures.
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Tips: Tipping is optional. Feel free to tip or not, but in this industry of tourist services, a tip is expected by the people involved in the course of this trek, which happens not only in our company but also in all trekking companies in Cusco. Everyone who works at Reservaciones Machu Picchu is paid fairly for the work they do; we even pay much more than companies that charge very high costs for the same trek. Feel free to tip or not, but we want to clarify that it is optional, not mandatory.
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Travel Insurance: We do not include travel insurance. We suggest you purchase it in your country, as it can be difficult to obtain it in Peru.
- WHAT TO BRING
Efficiently packing for the five-day Salkantay trek is essential to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable experience. Below is a complete list of what you should bring:
ESSENTIALS:
- Original passport: make sure it is valid for the entire duration of your trip.
- Student Card: Show it at check-in if you have booked as a student.
- Backpack: Opt for a small, ergonomic backpack for greater comfort during hikes.
- Water Storage: Carry 1.5-2 liters; consider using a Camelbak or similar hydration system.
- Hiking boots: Choose lightweight boots with good traction.
- Headlamp: An essential item for visibility during early morning or late afternoon hours.
FOR YOUR TRAVEL BAG:
- The horses will carry up to 7kg of your belongings, including your sleeping bag.
clothes
- 2-3 moisture-wicking t-shirts
- 2-3 pairs of hiking pants
- 3 sets of underwear
- 3 pairs of hiking socks
- 1 fleece jacket and 1 warm down jacket for cold nights
- 1 waterproof jacket and pants for unpredictable weather conditions
- 1 sun hat and 1 wool hat for various temperature changes.
- Comfortable shoes for camping and sturdy boots for hiking.
Gear:
- Waterproof gloves (ski gloves are acceptable)
- Waterproof jacket/rain poncho for heavy rain
- Quick-dry towel (preferably larger than the one provided)
- Small bottle of soap for personal hygiene.
- Battery charger (power sources are limited on the trail)
- Large plastic bags to organize and protect your items.
- Sleeping bag (resistant to at least -10 °C for cold nights)
Toiletries:
- Sunscreen and facial moisturizer to protect the skin.
- Insect repellent and hand sanitizer for hygiene.
- Wet wipes for quick cleaning
- Toothbrush and toothpaste for oral hygiene
- Toilet paper for personal use
- Personal medications and a basic first aid kit.
INSIDE YOUR BACKPACK:
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Bags larger than 25L are not permitted in Machu Picchu. Larger bags must be stored outside.
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Water: Bring enough for the first morning; refills will be provided later.
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Rain gear and fleece: be prepared for changing weather conditions.
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Camera or smartphone: Capture your memories.
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Music: An iPhone or similar device for entertainment.
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Hand sanitizer: To maintain cleanliness.
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Toilet paper and small plastic bags: To manage waste responsibly.
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Extra money: For any additional purchases and tips.
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Earplugs: To ensure a peaceful rest.
GRADES
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Waterproofing: Protect your items from rain and moisture.
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Comfort: Wear comfortable, well-fitting shoes to avoid blisters.
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Organization: Use compartments to keep essential items easily accessible.
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Following this detailed checklist will help ensure a memorable and comfortable experience during your Salkantay trek.
- PRICES
PRICES: 5-day Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu – Group Service – 2024 and 2025 Seasons
Salkantay Trek Prices:
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Adult: $380 USD per person
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Student: $350 USD per person (valid student ID required)
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Child (8-17 years): $350 USD per person
Student Price
How to get the student discount for Machu Picchu?
The Peruvian government offers discounts to students on entrance tickets to Machu Picchu. To access this special rate on our tours, the following requirements must be met:
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Age: The student must be under 25 years old at the time of the visit to Machu Picchu.
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Card Format: The ID must be a physical plastic card, similar to a credit card, with the information printed on it (cards with stickers or without printing are not accepted).
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Required Information: The card must show:
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University data
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Student personal information
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Student photo
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Fecha de validez que no exceda un año desde la visita (por ejemplo, para visitar en 2024, la tarjeta debe ser válida hasta 2025).
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Note on the ISIC Card: The International Student Identity Card (ISIC) is not accepted by the Peruvian government for discounts at Machu Picchu. It is essential to present a card that meets these requirements, otherwise the student will be required to pay the full price of admission to the site, subject to availability.
Please ensure your student ID meets these guidelines before booking as a student for Machu Picchu.
- HOW TO RESERVE
Online Booking
- Click on the “BOOK NOW” button on our website.
- Select your travel date.
- Fill out your personal information in the required fields.
- Make payment using your debit or credit card.
- Receive your email confirmation with tour and payment details.
Reservation deadline: until 9:00 p.m. the day before.
Online booking fee: 2.9% additional, payable by the client.
Reserve at our office
- Location: Plaza Regocijo, Cusco.
- Payment methods:
- Cash: We accept dollars, euros and Peruvian soles.
- Cards: 3.9% commission, borne by the client.
Information needed for reservation:
- first name
- Nationality
- Name of the hotel in Cusco
Contact our travel advisor to use this itinerary (or others) as a basis to design your perfect Peru adventure together!
OPINIONS ON TRIPADVISOR
We are proud to share that we have received 6,353 reviews on TripAdvisor, where our customers have highlighted our commitment to quality and customer satisfaction. These comments reflect our dedication to providing unforgettable experiences at Machu Picchu.


María Rodríguez
25 enero 2024

¡Increíble experiencia con esta agencia de viajes! Desde el momento en que llegamos, nos hicieron sentir como en casa. El personal fue…


Emily Johnson
January 19, 2024

Absolutely fantastic experience with this travel agency! The tours were well-planned and allowed us to see the best of Cusco and Machu Picchu…


Carlos González
20 marzo 2024

Una experiencia inolvidable gracias a esta agencia. Los guías fueron muy conocedores y amigables, lo que hizo que cada tour fuera aún más…


Sarah Brown
February 5, 2024

An unforgettable trip to Cusco and Machu Picchu, thanks in large part to this travel agency. The tours were exciting and well-organized…
RELATED TOURS
We offer a variety of additional tours that maintain the same level of excellence and quality that you expect. Discover new adventures and possibilities with us without compromising the experience! Our optional trips are designed to enrich your visit to Machu Picchu and other nearby destinations, always guaranteeing first-class service.
BOOK NOW
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Reservations on Our Website are Individual
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We do not request any advance payment until we confirm the availability of your reservation on the selected dates.
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Once Availability is confirmed, we will send you an email from booking@mendozatoursperu.com with the link or payment methods available for your country.
You can decide whether you want to cancel the entire amount or just a deposit of $180 per person to confirm your reservation. -
Once your reservation is confirmed, we will take care of everything. We will be waiting for you the day you arrive in Cusco. If you have any questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to contact us.