How to Plan Your 5 Day Classic Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu

If you’re looking for an adventure, a great way to experience nature and discover a historic landmark, the 5 Day Classic Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu is a perfect option for you. In this guide, we’ll provide you with all the important details you need to know before you embark on this incredible journey.

Overview

The 5 Day Classic Salkantay Trek is a challenging hike that will take you through lush landscapes with incredible views of the extraordinary Andes Mountains. On this tour, you’ll visit some of the most essential destinations in Cusco, such as Aguas Calientes, Santa Teresa, and of course, Machu Picchu. During the trek, you’ll pass through several stunning glaciers before getting to Machu Picchu for an unforgettable tour of the ancient Inca citadel.

What’s Included?

The tour comes with several inclusions, such as:

• Private transportation
• English speaking official guide
• Camping equipment
• Entrance Free to Salkantay Trail (USD 3.50)
• Huayna Picchu (USD 25) – Booked in advance
• Machu Picchu Mountain (USD 25) – Booked in advance
• Professional cook and assistant
• Packing animals
• Meals and drinks during the trek (vegetarian option available upon request)

Meeting and Pickup

The tour provides multiple pick-up points for your convenience. You can either head directly to the meeting point or request a pickup. The meeting point is Plaza Kusipata, F2M9+5X2 Cusco 08002 Peru.

If you don’t need a pick-up, the group will gather at “la plazoleta Regocijo” in the centre beside the small fountain of water between 4:45am and 5:00am.

We provide pick-ups from well-known accommodations that have easy access for our transport team. Alternatively, we may meet our transport team the night before at the briefing to agree on a convenient location.

What to Expect

The 5 Day Classic Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu is a challenging hike that demands a certain level of fitness. The tour begins with an early morning pick-up from your hotel, followed by a scenic drive to the starting point of the trek.

During your trek, you’ll witness stunning views of the Andes Mountains as you pass through Quechua villages, known for their typical and vibrant culture. You’ll start in the high-altitude Andes valleys, cross the imposing Salkantay mountain pass (4600 meters/acclimatization phase) and descent through the most scenic cloud forests.

On the last day of the trek, you’ll arrive at Machu Picchu, where you’ll have a guided tour of the archaeological site. The tour covers several locations, including the Temple of the Sun, the Temple of the Three Windows, and the Intihuatana Stone.

After the tour, you’ll have free time to explore Machu Picchu on your own before returning to Cusco.

Additional Information

A couple of things to keep in mind before embarking on the trek:

• The trek involves several hours of walking each day, so bring comfortable hiking shoes.
• It’s essential to bring warm clothing as nights on the trek can get cold.
• Make sure to bring sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses to protect yourself from the sun.
• Keep some cash on hand for souvenirs and snacks during the trek. Note that the tour includes all meals and drinks during the trek.

Book the Tour Here

To book your spot on the 5 Day Classic Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu, click on this link. Remember to book in advance to secure your place on this trekking adventure.

Conclusion

The 5 Day Classic Salkantay Trek is an incredibly challenging hike, but the views and experiences make it all worthwhile. This guide has given you all the essential details you need to plan your trek and have an unforgettable adventure. Don’t forget to bring your camera and capture the memories of a lifetime.

An Insider’s Guide to Cusco: Discovering Hidden Gems and Authentic Experiences

Cusco, the ancient Inca city located in the heart of Peru, is a cultural and historical hub that has captivated visitors for centuries. From world-renowned landmarks like Machu Picchu to hidden gems and local experiences, there is so much to discover in Cusco beyond the typical tourist route. In this insider’s guide, we will take you on a journey through the city’s best-hidden secrets, culinary experiences, cultural traditions, historical landmarks, and off-the-beaten-path activities that will make your trip to Cusco not just memorable, but unforgettable.

Local Attractions: Uncovering Hidden Gems

While the main attraction of Cusco may undoubtedly be Machu Picchu, there are numerous other places that are equally exciting, yet less visited by tourists. For example, the San Pedro Market is a bustling street market where you can find everything from fresh produce to artisanal crafts and delicious street food. Another hidden gem is the Sacsayhuamanpark, a vast complex of ruins featuring impressive Inca stonework that offers stunning panoramic views of the city.

Dining Spots: Exploring Local Cuisine

Cusco’s culinary scene is a reflection of its rich cultural heritage, and a must-try is the classic dish Cuy or guinea pig. Though this one’s popular among tourists, it can be best enjoyed with locals in small villages around Cusco. The city’s surrounding hills and valleys offer fresh ingredients (quinoa, potatoes, corn and other indigenous ingredients) to city-based cooks, who prepare mouth-watering dishes using traditional techniques. Enjoy a pisco sour, the national cocktail, on a rooftop bar in the town center, or try cancha, the crispy corn kernels while strolling down the cobblestone pathways.

Cultural Experiences: Delving into the Local Traditions

Cusco is home to an array of cultural experiences – from traditional Andean music to elaborate festivals and rituals that date back centuries. Join a traditional dance or music performance, take a salsa class, or visit the Qosqo Native Art Gallery to discover stunning local artwork. Attending Inti Raymi or Sun Festival, celebrating the winter solstice, is a must, where the streets are filled with color, dance, and music.

Local History: Discovering the Mysteries of the Past

Cusco has a rich and tumultuous history marked by a remarkable blend of Inca and Spanish influence. You can learn more about it by visiting the Cathedral of Santo Domingo, featuring elaborate religious art and a collection of historical artifacts. Also, explore the Coricancha temple, a magnificent Inca temple that was once covered in gold before the Spanish conquered the city. For thrill-seekers, Mines of Huanchaca has a deep history, and one can see the impact of colonialism on the indigenous community there.

Off-The-Beaten-Path Activities: Getting Adventurous

The Sacred Valley around Cusco is not just scenic, but also offers off-beat activities that one can explore such as paragliding, river rafting in the Urubamba River, or ziplining through the Andes. Hire a bike and cycle through the hills to untapped lands around Moray. Exploring the mountainous terrain gives a whole different perspective and exciting adrenaline-pumping opportunities.

Conclusion:

Cusco has something for everyone who seeks an immersive experience of South America’s culture, traditions and a mix of the ancient and modern. With this insider guide, hopefully, we have introduced you to some of the most unique and authentic experiences the city has to offer. As you plan your trip to the city of the Incas, don’t forget to pack your sense of adventure and a willingness to explore the city’s hidden treasures truly.