How difficult is the Salkantay?

Salkantay is considered a challenging hike, but not impossible for an average traveller. Anyone who wishes to trek Salkantay should at least be moderately fit and spend 2 days in Cusco to get acclimatized to the altitude.

What’s the most challenging section of the hike?

The most difficult section of the Salkantay trek is the Salkantay Pass, which is at approximately 4,650 meters above sea level. This section is challenging due to uphill climbing, bitter cold winds, low temperatures, and trekking at a low-oxygen altitude.

Can I hike the Salkantay at any time?

The Salkantay trek is not available during the rainy season, from mid-March to the end of February, due to safety concerns. The trek can only be done if the weather is good and the safety of the porters and clients is not threatened.

Before hiking the Salkantay, where could I stay in Cusco?

You can choose your hotel, and the guide will visit your hotel a day before the trek to pick you up.

How many days did you walk from Mollepata to Machu Picchu? How many kilometers is Salkantay Trek per day?

The Salkantay trek takes 4 nights and 5 days, with the 5th night spent in Machu Picchu. The trek is approximately 60 km overall, with an average of 12 km per day, but some days are more challenging than others.

Why do I need to make a deposit?

You need to make a deposit of 30% to guarantee your reservation for the Salkantay Trek. This deposit is non-refundable, as we use it to make important purchases such as entrance fees, bus and train tickets. You can make the deposit through various payment methods such as VISA card, Western Union, Money Gram, or Peruvian Banking Account. The remaining 70% balance can be paid in Cusco, 2 days before or at our office.

How to book the Salkantay Trek?

To make a booking for the Salkantay Trek, you must fill out the attached booking form with accurate and updated information such as full names, passport or ID number, nationality, gender, and birthdate. This will ensure that we make your bookings with the correct information, avoiding any issues that may arise from missing or incorrect information.

How long is the Salkantay trek and how many hours a day do we hike?

The Salkantay trek has different trail and campsite options, but the trail that we follow is approximately 60.5 km. On average, you will hike for about 8-9 hours per day.

How difficult is the Salkantay trek?

The Salkantay Trek is more suitable for adventurous trekkers who can handle a little more altitude and distance. It’s not a technical hike, but the altitude may affect some individuals. We recommend bringing a hiking stick or purchasing a wooden walking stick in Peru to help with balance and reduce the load on your knees. However, please avoid using a metal tipped walking stick to protect the fragile environment along the trail.

Is the altitude a problem?

Altitude affects everyone differently, but if you haven’t had prior experience with high altitude, we recommend giving yourself 2-3 days in Cusco to adjust. You can drink lots of water, chew cocoa leaves, and even take medicine if necessary. The worst you may experience is breathlessness while hiking, headaches, and a little nausea.

When do we reach Machu Picchu and how much time do we spend there?

You will reach Machu Picchu early in the morning on Day 5. Your local guide will take you on an informative 2- hour tour of the site. After the tour, you will have a few hours of free time to explore the area on your own before the group travels by bus to Aguas Calientes and then back to Cusco by train.

Do porters carry our luggage while on the Salkantay trek?

No, pack mules and/or horses will be provided to carry your personal items. You will still need to bring a day backpack to carry any essentials you might want or need.

How cold does it get on the Salkantay trek? Will I need to bring hats and gloves?

The altitude means it can get quite chilly, especially during the Andean winter (May – September) when the temperature can drop to below zero degrees (Celsius) at night. It can still be cool at other times of the year, and we recommend bringing thermal underwear and a warm sleeping bag.

What type of accommodation is used on the Salkantay trek?

We are the only company who has private campsites along the Salkantay Trek, and all our domes are green. On Day 1, 2, and 3, we use private Soraypampa, Chaullay, and Loreta La Playa campsites, respectively, and on Day 4, we stay at an Aguas Calientes hotel.

Are there restrooms available on the trek?

There are a few places where permanent but very basic toilet facilities exist, and when they are not available, our team will set up portable toilet tents. Trekkers are provided with a bowl of hot water every morning in their tent.

Is purified water available on the trek?

Bottled water can be purchased on Day 1 of the Salkantay Trek, but we discourage hikers from purchasing bottles as it increases the amount of garbage that must be packed out. Boiled water will be provided every evening after dinner so that you can refill your water bottle(s). If you wish to add water purification tablets, you should bring these with you.

What type of food is provided on the Salkantay trek?

Our chefs and cooks prepare high-energy meals suitable for trekking, including pasta, rice, chicken, fresh fruits and vegetables, and a variety of breakfast foods like oatmeal and eggs. We also offer vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options.

Is it possible to do the Salkantay trek with kids?

Children under 8 years old are not allowed to participate in the trek. Children over 8 years old should be in good physical condition and accustomed to hiking long distances. For those who may need it, there is the possibility to ride on horseback during the trek.