How to Plan Your Salkantay Trek 5 Days 4 Nights in Aguas Calientes

If you’re looking for an unforgettable adventure in Peru, the Salkantay Trek is definitely one of the most rewarding experiences. This 5-day, 4-night trek takes you through some of the most beautiful natural landscapes in the Andean region, where you’ll see stunning snowcapped mountains, crystal-clear lagoons, and lush green valleys. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the steps of how to plan your Salkantay Trek 5 Days 4 Nights in Aguas Calientes.

Experience

The Salkantay Trek 5 Days 4 Nights is a guided trekking tour that takes you through some of the most gorgeous natural landscapes in the area. You’ll have the chance to explore different types of terrain including valleys, forests, mountains and lagoons, all while enjoying the opportunity to observe the flora and fauna of the place.

Highlights

The Salkantay Trek is a challenging and rewarding adventure that offers a number of amazing highlights along the way. Here are some of the top highlights you can expect during your trek:

• Beautiful views of snowcapped mountains including the impressive Salkantay peak
• Visit to the turquoise-blue Humantay Lagoon
• Guided trekking through valleys, forests, and Andean grasslands
• Opportunities to observe the unique flora and fauna of the place
• Arrival to the iconic Machu Picchu, one of the seven wonders of the world

Day 1: Cusco – Mollepata – Soraypampa

Pick up from your hotel in Cusco at 5:00 am and transfer to the village of Mollepata where you will have breakfast and meet the entire team who will accompany you throughout the trek. You will then move to Marqoq’asa where the walk will begin to the viewpoint, where you can see 2 valleys (Mollepata valley and Marqoq’asa). Then you will continue the walk to Soraypampa, where you will have lunch and then ascend for 1 hour and 30 minutes until you reach the Humantay lagoon located 4220 meters above sea level, then you will descend to Soraypampa.

What’s included in the tour

• Professional tour guide
• Second tour guide for groups of 9+
• Transportation Cusco – Soraypampa
• Horses, mules, and a muleteer to carry all the camping equipment
• Train ticket Aguas Calientes – Ollantaytambo
• Guided tour in Machu Picchu
• Bus ticket up Aguas Calientes

How to Book the Tour

If you’re interested in booking the Salkantay Trek 5 Days 4 Nights in Aguas Calientes, you can do so online through their website or with various tour companies in Cusco. One of the most popular tour companies is GetYourGuide, which provides a high-quality experience with professional guides and comfortable accommodations throughout the trek.

Book Your Tour Now

Planning a Salkantay Trek 5 Days 4 Nights in Aguas Calientes requires some preparation, but it’s definitely worth the effort. By following our guide, you’ll be fully equipped to book your tour and take on this incredible adventure. Make sure to bring comfortable hiking gear, a good camera, and an open mind, and get ready to create unforgettable memories in one of the world’s most stunning natural landscapes.

Aguas Calientes: The Ultimate FAQ Guide

Are you planning a trip to Aguas Calientes, Peru? This small town, also known as Machu Picchu Pueblo, serves as the gateway to the world-renowned Machu Picchu ruins. Here’s everything you need to know to make the most out of your trip to Aguas Calientes.

1. Where is Aguas Calientes located?

Aguas Calientes is located in the Cusco region of Peru, about 70 kilometers northwest of Cusco city. It is nestled in the Urubamba River valley, right at the foot of Machu Picchu.

2. How do I get to Aguas Calientes?

The only way to get to Aguas Calientes is by train. There are two train stations near Cusco: Poroy and Ollantaytambo. Both offer train services to Aguas Calientes. The train ride is about 3.5 hours and offers stunning views of the Andes mountains and the Urubamba River.

3. What can I do in Aguas Calientes?

Aguas Calientes is a small town, but it has a lot to offer to visitors. The main attraction is, of course, Machu Picchu. However, there are other things to do in Aguas Calientes as well, such as: – Visit the hot springs: Aguas Calientes means “hot waters” in Spanish, and the town has hot springs that you can visit for a relaxing soak. – Explore the local markets: Aguas Calientes has several markets where you can buy souvenirs, handicrafts, and local food. – Hike to Mandor Waterfall: This is a lesser-known attraction in the area. The hike is about 2.5 hours one-way and takes you through lush vegetation and past a waterfall.

4. What are the best places to eat in Aguas Calientes?

Aguas Calientes has a variety of restaurants offering both Peruvian and international cuisine. Some of the best places to eat in Aguas Calientes are: – Indio Feliz: This restaurant offers a blend of French and Peruvian cuisine, with a cozy and romantic atmosphere. – Mapacho Craft Beer & Peruvian Kitchen: This restaurant offers local craft beer and Peruvian fusion dishes, with great views of the river. – El Mapi Restaurant: This restaurant is located inside the Inkaterra hotel and offers a buffet of Peruvian and international dishes.

5. How do I get to Machu Picchu from Aguas Calientes?

The only way to get to Machu Picchu from Aguas Calientes is by bus. Buses depart every 10 minutes from the bus station in Aguas Calientes, and the ride is about 30 minutes. You can also hike to Machu Picchu from Aguas Calientes, which takes about 1.5-2 hours.

6. When is the best time to visit Aguas Calientes?

The best time to visit Aguas Calientes is during the dry season, which runs from May to October. During this time, you can expect sunny and clear days. However, it is also the busiest time of the year, so be prepared for crowds and higher prices.

7. What should I pack for a trip to Aguas Calientes?

When packing for a trip to Aguas Calientes, keep in mind that the weather can be unpredictable. It’s best to pack layers so that you can add or remove clothing depending on the weather. Some essential items to pack are: – Comfortable walking shoes – Warm jacket or sweater – Rain jacket or poncho – Sunscreen – Insect repellent

8. Do I need a guide to visit Machu Picchu?

No, you don’t need a guide to visit Machu Picchu. However, hiring a guide can enhance your experience by providing you with valuable information about the history and significance of the site. You can hire a guide in advance or at the entrance of Machu Picchu.

9. Can I stay overnight in Machu Picchu?

No, you cannot stay overnight in Machu Picchu. The ruins close at 5:30 pm every day, and visitors are required to leave the site. However, you can stay overnight in Aguas Calientes, which is just a short bus ride away from Machu Picchu.

10. How much does it cost to visit Machu Picchu?

The cost of visiting Machu Picchu varies depending on several factors, such as whether you are a foreigner or a Peruvian citizen, whether you are a student or an adult, and whether you want to climb Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain. As of 2021, the entrance fee for a foreign adult without a hike is $60, while the entrance fee for a foreign student without a hike is $30. In conclusion, Aguas Calientes is a must-visit destination for anyone planning a trip to Machu Picchu. Whether you want to explore the local markets, soak in the hot springs, or hike to a waterfall, Aguas Calientes has something for everyone. With this FAQ guide, you now have all the information you need to plan a smooth and enjoyable trip to Aguas Calientes.

How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Aguas Calientes

Aguas Calientes, also known as Machu Picchu Pueblo, is a small town located at the base of the world-famous Machu Picchu ruins in Peru. While many tourists visit Aguas Calientes to see Machu Picchu, the town itself has plenty to offer visitors. In this guide, we will discuss how to spend your time as a tourist in Aguas Calientes.

Explore the Hot Springs

One of the main attractions of Aguas Calientes is the hot springs. The town’s name means “hot waters” in Spanish, and the hot springs are a great way to relax and unwind after a long day of travel or hiking. There are several hot springs in the area, including the Thermal Baths of Aguas Calientes, which is the largest and most popular.

How to Get There

The Thermal Baths of Aguas Calientes are located just a short walk from the town center. You will need to pay a small fee to enter the hot springs, but it is well worth it. The hot springs are open every day from 5:00 am to 8:00 pm.

What to Expect

The Thermal Baths of Aguas Calientes features several different pools at varying temperatures, so you can find the perfect spot to relax. The water is said to be rich in minerals, which is believed to have therapeutic properties. Many people find that soaking in the hot springs helps relieve muscle soreness and stiffness.

Take a Stroll Through the Market

Aguas Calientes has a bustling market with plenty of local vendors selling souvenirs, handicrafts, and other goods. The market is a great place to pick up some unique souvenirs or gifts for friends and family back home.

When to Go

The market is open every day from early in the morning until late at night. It can be quite crowded during peak tourist season, so it is recommended to go early in the morning or in the evening when the crowds have thinned out.

What to Buy

Some popular items to buy at the market include alpaca wool clothing, hand-painted ceramics, and handmade jewelry. Be prepared to bargain with the vendors, as haggling is a common practice in the market.

Visit the Machu Picchu Museum

While most visitors to the area come to see Machu Picchu itself, the Machu Picchu Museum in Aguas Calientes is also worth a visit. The museum houses a collection of artifacts from the Inca civilization, including pottery, textiles, and tools.

How to Get There

The Machu Picchu Museum is located just a short walk from the town center. You will need to pay a small fee to enter the museum.

What to Expect

The museum showcases many of the unique and interesting artifacts that have been found at Machu Picchu and other Inca sites in the area. There are also exhibits that explain the history and culture of the Inca civilization, which can be helpful in gaining a deeper understanding of the region.

Take a Hike to Mandor Gardens

For those looking for a more active way to explore the area, a hike to Mandor Gardens is a great option. The gardens are located about 3 km (1.8 miles) outside of Aguas Calientes and feature a variety of plant and animal species.

How to Get There

To get to Mandor Gardens, you will need to hike along the train tracks that lead to Machu Picchu. The hike takes about 45 minutes to an hour each way and can be quite steep in places. Make sure to wear comfortable hiking shoes and bring plenty of water and sunscreen.

What to Expect

The hike to Mandor Gardens is a great way to see some of the beautiful scenery in the area, including waterfalls and lush greenery. Once you reach the gardens, you can explore at your leisure and enjoy a picnic lunch or snack. There is also a small museum on site that provides information about the local flora and fauna.

Book Your Tour Now

While Machu Picchu is certainly the main attraction in this area, Aguas Calientes has plenty to offer visitors in its own right. From hot springs to markets to museums and hikes, there is something for everyone in this charming town. Whether you have a few hours or a few days to explore, we hope this guide has given you some inspiration for how to spend your time as a tourist in Aguas Calientes.