Salkantay is considered a challenging but doable hike for the average traveller or tourist. Moderate fitness is necessary due to the physical demands, and spending at least 2 days in Cusco before the trek is recommended for acclimatization to the altitude. Even those who are extremely fit may still experience altitude sickness.

The entire Salkantay trek covers approximately 60.5 kilometers (37.5 miles) over 4 days and 3 nights, with the remaining day spent at Machu Picchu. Compared to the Inca Trail, Salkantay is slightly more challenging, while other trails such as Choquequirao are slightly more difficult than Salkantay.

The Salkantay Pass, located at 4,630 m / 15,228 ft above sea level, is the most difficult section of the trail. Hikers should expect cold and windy weather, and may experience symptoms of altitude sickness. Oxygen is available if needed, and symptoms typically subside once hikers begin their descent. The uphill climb, cold winds, low temperatures, and low-oxygen altitude all contribute to the challenge of the Salkantay Pass.

The Salkantay trek may not be available during the rainy season, from mid-March to the end of February, due to safety concerns. If the weather is good, the trek will be approved, but if safety is compromised, the trek will be cancelled to ensure the safety of our clients and porters.

You are free to choose your own hotel, and our guide will pick you up from there one day before the trek.

The Salkantay trek takes 4 nights and 5 days, with the 5th night spent in Machu Picchu. The total distance covered is approximately 60 km, with an average of 12 km per day. However, some days may require more distance than others.

A 30% deposit is required to guarantee your reservation and ensure that we can make necessary purchases such as entrance fees, bus and train tickets. This deposit is non-refundable once received because we use it immediately for the aforementioned purchases. Additionally, making a deposit helps us to prepare for the trek by knowing how many guides to assign and how much food to purchase. The final balance (70%) is paid in Cusco, 2 days before the trek, and payment options include online payment systems, VISA, Western Union, Money Gram, or a Peruvian bank account.

Answer: To book the Salkantay Trek, you must fill out the attached booking form that we email you with updated and accurate information. This will ensure that we can make your bookings with the right information. Alternatively, you can send us your Full Names, Passport Number or ID Number, Nationality, Gender, and Birthdate to expedite the booking process.

The Salkantay trek has various trails and campsites, but the trail we follow is about 60.5 km. On average, you will hike approximately 8-9 hours per day.

Answer: The Salkantay Trek is ideal for adventure enthusiasts who can handle the altitude and distance. While it’s not a technical hike, altitude may affect some individuals. We recommend bringing a wooden walking stick or purchasing one in Peru to aid with balance and reduce load on your knees. Metal tipped walking sticks should not be used as they can harm the environment.

Altitude affects everyone differently. If you have little to no experience with altitude, we recommend giving yourself 2-3 days in Cusco to adjust. Drinking plenty of water, chewing cocoa leaves, and taking medicine if necessary can help alleviate any symptoms. Generally, breathlessness, headaches, and slight nausea are the most common symptoms.

You will arrive at Machu Picchu early in the morning on Day 5 and have a 2-hour tour with a local guide followed by a few hours of free time to explore on your own before taking a bus to Aguas Calientes and then the train back to Cusco.

No, pack mules and/or horses will carry your personal items. You will still need to bring a day backpack to carry essentials, and a duffel will be provided to put your belongings in.

It can get quite chilly at night, especially during the Andean winter, so it’s recommended to bring thermal underwear and a warm sleeping bag. Locally made mitts and gloves can be purchased in Cusco.

Private campsites and green eco domes are used on Days 1-3, and a hotel is used on Day 4.

Basic permanent toilets and portable toilet tents are available at some places. Trekkers are provided with a bowl of hot water every morning in their tent.

Boiled water is provided every evening after dinner for refilling water bottles, but purchasing bottled water is discouraged to reduce garbage. Trekkers can bring water purification tablets.

High-energy meals appropriate for the trek are prepared by the chefs/cooks, including pasta, rice, chicken, fresh fruit and vegetables, and breakfast foods. Food for vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free diets is also provided.

Children under 8 years old are not allowed, but those over 8 years old and in good physical shape can do the trek. Horseback riding is also an option for some parts of the trek.

You can purchase Machu Picchu entrance tickets through the official website of the Ministry of Culture of Peru or through authorized ticketing agencies. It’s recommended to buy your tickets in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons, as there is a limit to the number of visitors allowed each day to preserve the site. Make sure to have your passport handy when purchasing, as you’ll need it to enter the site.