Salkantay trek via Llactapata, 5 days
Salkantay trekking via Llactapata to Machu Picchu, 5 days
Price as of 2020:
US$ 520 - regular price
US$ 480 - Student (university student card)
Overview.-
This is an alternative Inca Trek which takes you through the spectacular scenery of the Andes to arrive at the impressive Salkantay pass. This peak is at 6,271m / 20,574ft; it is the 38th highest peak in the Andes, and the twelfth highest in Peru. However, as the highpoint of its range, it is the second most topographically prominent peak in the country, after Huascarán.
Salkantay is a large, steep peak, the most spectacular of the region with great vertical relief, particularly above the low valleys to the north, which are tributaries of the Amazon River.
The name Salkantay is from sallqa, a Quechua word meaning wild, uncivilized, savage, or invincible, and was recorded as early as 1583. The name is thus often translated as "Savage Mountain". Directly to the north of Salkantay lies Machu Picchu, which is at the end of a ridge that extends down from this mountain. Viewed from Machu Picchu's main sundial, the Southern Cross of the citadel is above Salkantay's summit when at its highest point in the sky during the rainy season. The Incas associated this alignment with concepts of rain and fertility, and considered Salkantay to be one of the principal deities controlling weather and fertility in the region west of Cuzco. You will reach Machu Picchu in 5 days.
Price as of 2020:
US$ 520 - regular price
US$ 480 - Student (university student card)
Overview.-
This is an alternative Inca Trek which takes you through the spectacular scenery of the Andes to arrive at the impressive Salkantay pass. This peak is at 6,271m / 20,574ft; it is the 38th highest peak in the Andes, and the twelfth highest in Peru. However, as the highpoint of its range, it is the second most topographically prominent peak in the country, after Huascarán.
Salkantay is a large, steep peak, the most spectacular of the region with great vertical relief, particularly above the low valleys to the north, which are tributaries of the Amazon River.
The name Salkantay is from sallqa, a Quechua word meaning wild, uncivilized, savage, or invincible, and was recorded as early as 1583. The name is thus often translated as "Savage Mountain". Directly to the north of Salkantay lies Machu Picchu, which is at the end of a ridge that extends down from this mountain. Viewed from Machu Picchu's main sundial, the Southern Cross of the citadel is above Salkantay's summit when at its highest point in the sky during the rainy season. The Incas associated this alignment with concepts of rain and fertility, and considered Salkantay to be one of the principal deities controlling weather and fertility in the region west of Cuzco. You will reach Machu Picchu in 5 days.
Salkantay trek, Llactapata, 5 days itinerary:
Day 1: Cusco - Mollepata - Soraypampa
An early wake up at around 5:00 am! We drive from Cusco by bus for approximately 3 hours to Mollepata, where we can stop for a while. The trekkers may have breakfast (not included in cost), also here is where we meet our horsemen. We embark on a 3 hour hike uphill to Markocassa. After a short rest we continue uphill for approximately 2 more hours to a viewpoint where we observe the wonderful Humantay glacier and the campsite at the bottom of this nevado. We continue down 1 more hour to Challacancha for lunch.
In the afternoon we continue walking for about 2 - 3 hours to reach Soraypampa, which is nestled in between the snow-capped mountains. We set up camp here.
In the afternoon we continue walking for about 2 - 3 hours to reach Soraypampa, which is nestled in between the snow-capped mountains. We set up camp here.
Day 2: Soraypampa - Salkantay pass - Huayracmachay - Challway
An early start to the day as we have a steep climb ahead of us. Our ascent takes around 3 hours until we reach the highest pass of Salkantay at 4600 m / 15092 ft near the magnificent glacier peaks of Salkantay (6271 m / 20574 ft) and Humantay (6100 m / 20013 ft) - the second highest peak in the Cusco area.
After admiring the beautiful landscape of surrounding glaciers, we begin our descent to Huayracmachay (3900 m / 12795 ft) where we have our lunch and a good rest. After lunch we continue walking down for around 3-4 hours until reaching our campsite at Chaullway.
This day will lead us through different ecological stages - passing from the bottom of the glaciers up into the cloud forest in only 10 hours.
After admiring the beautiful landscape of surrounding glaciers, we begin our descent to Huayracmachay (3900 m / 12795 ft) where we have our lunch and a good rest. After lunch we continue walking down for around 3-4 hours until reaching our campsite at Chaullway.
This day will lead us through different ecological stages - passing from the bottom of the glaciers up into the cloud forest in only 10 hours.
Day 3: Challway - Collpapampa - La Playa
Departing early from Chaullay, we soon pass through Collcapampa. In this part of the trek we walk on a narrow trail on the mountainside, discovering various species of orchids and different kinds of plants, and some cornfields and fruit fields. We are also blessed to visit the most beautiful waterfall of the region. After some 6 hours more of walking we will reach La Playa for lunch. La Playa is a charming village of farmers dedicated to grow coffee trees, banana trees, passion fruit and avocado trees. The lower you descend the more tropical fruits you will find. In the evening we have dinner at our campsite and rest for the night.
Day 4: La Playa - Llactapata - Hydroelectric - Aguas Calientes
We have breakfast at 5:30 am, leave the campsite and head for Llactapata (3 hours of steady incline). Llactapata is an incredible Inca site aligned to the Machu Picchu citadel boasting impressive views of Machu Picchu!
After some photos and rest we will continue walking downhill (3 more hours) passing a variety of crop plantations, banana, coffee, etc. until we reach the hydroelectric station. At about 4:00 pm, we will travel by train to Puentes Ruinas (near Aguas Calientes town) where we will spend the night.
The other option is to keep walking along the train track for 3 more hours to reach Aguas Calientes. This route offers several glimpse of the Machu Picchu citadel high on the mountaintop.
Optional: In Aguas Calientes, you can take advantage of the thermal springs in the town (entrance US $3.5), working wonders for strained muscles and the mind alike.
After some photos and rest we will continue walking downhill (3 more hours) passing a variety of crop plantations, banana, coffee, etc. until we reach the hydroelectric station. At about 4:00 pm, we will travel by train to Puentes Ruinas (near Aguas Calientes town) where we will spend the night.
The other option is to keep walking along the train track for 3 more hours to reach Aguas Calientes. This route offers several glimpse of the Machu Picchu citadel high on the mountaintop.
Optional: In Aguas Calientes, you can take advantage of the thermal springs in the town (entrance US $3.5), working wonders for strained muscles and the mind alike.
Day 5: Aguas Calientes - Machu Picchu - Aguas Calientes - Ollantaytambo - Cusco
On the fifth day you get up at 4:30 am, and after getting a snack, you will take a bus up to Machu Picchu at 5:30, getting to Machu Picchu at 6:00 am to show your passport at the checkpoint.
Your guide will lead you to the upper part of Machu Picchu to begin the tour through this wonderful archaeological site, where you will learn much more about the Incas. By 8:30, you will be able to explore on your own, until 4:00 pm the latest!
If you want to climb up to Huayna Picchu mountain (which appears in the background of the classic picture of Machu Picchu), please let us know at booking to check availability. This climb is very popular. Please book in advance at an extra cost of US $35. Only 400 people a day are allowed for climbing to Huayna Picchu mountain. One group of 200 people leaves at 7:00 am and the other 200 at 10:00 am. We recommend you go in the second group, as it is sometimes cloudy in the morning.
The way back to Cusco takes four hours in total, so it is about two hours by train from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo and two more hours by bus from Ollantaytambo to Cusco.
We will leave Machu Picchu at 4:00 pm at the latest and take a bus down to Aguas Calientes to have time for eating and shopping in town. From there, you will take the two-hour train at 18:35 back to Ollantaytambo, where a bus will be waiting for you. It is about two more hours by bus to Cusco.
You will arrive to Cusco at 22:30. As you will need about four hours to get back to Cusco from Aguas Calientes, if you would like to arrive earlier in the evening in Cusco, we recommend taking a train at 14:55 from Aguas Calientes. Please indicate your preferences regarding this issue.
OUR PROMISE IS TO PROVIDE YOU A COMFORTABLE HIKE, ASSURING THE BEST EXPERIENCE OF YOUR SOUTH AMERICAN TRIP! NEW EQUIPMENT, SMILING PORTERS, EXPERT COOKS, AMAZING FOOD AND PROFESSIONAL GUIDES WILL MAKE THIS HIKE UNFORGETTABLE FOR YOU.
WE RECOMMEND TRAINING FOR THIS TREK, AS IT IS DIFFICULT BUT NOT IMPOSSIBLE.
WE RECOMMEND DOING EXERCISES FOR 30 DAYS, JOGGING, WALKING AT HOME PRIOR TO THE HIKING AND ACCLIMATIZING TO THE ALTITUDE FOR AT LEAST TWO DAYS IN CUSCO.
DIFFICULTY LEVEL DEPENDS ON YOUR FITNESS AND ACCLIMATIZATION.
Your guide will lead you to the upper part of Machu Picchu to begin the tour through this wonderful archaeological site, where you will learn much more about the Incas. By 8:30, you will be able to explore on your own, until 4:00 pm the latest!
If you want to climb up to Huayna Picchu mountain (which appears in the background of the classic picture of Machu Picchu), please let us know at booking to check availability. This climb is very popular. Please book in advance at an extra cost of US $35. Only 400 people a day are allowed for climbing to Huayna Picchu mountain. One group of 200 people leaves at 7:00 am and the other 200 at 10:00 am. We recommend you go in the second group, as it is sometimes cloudy in the morning.
The way back to Cusco takes four hours in total, so it is about two hours by train from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo and two more hours by bus from Ollantaytambo to Cusco.
We will leave Machu Picchu at 4:00 pm at the latest and take a bus down to Aguas Calientes to have time for eating and shopping in town. From there, you will take the two-hour train at 18:35 back to Ollantaytambo, where a bus will be waiting for you. It is about two more hours by bus to Cusco.
You will arrive to Cusco at 22:30. As you will need about four hours to get back to Cusco from Aguas Calientes, if you would like to arrive earlier in the evening in Cusco, we recommend taking a train at 14:55 from Aguas Calientes. Please indicate your preferences regarding this issue.
OUR PROMISE IS TO PROVIDE YOU A COMFORTABLE HIKE, ASSURING THE BEST EXPERIENCE OF YOUR SOUTH AMERICAN TRIP! NEW EQUIPMENT, SMILING PORTERS, EXPERT COOKS, AMAZING FOOD AND PROFESSIONAL GUIDES WILL MAKE THIS HIKE UNFORGETTABLE FOR YOU.
WE RECOMMEND TRAINING FOR THIS TREK, AS IT IS DIFFICULT BUT NOT IMPOSSIBLE.
WE RECOMMEND DOING EXERCISES FOR 30 DAYS, JOGGING, WALKING AT HOME PRIOR TO THE HIKING AND ACCLIMATIZING TO THE ALTITUDE FOR AT LEAST TWO DAYS IN CUSCO.
DIFFICULTY LEVEL DEPENDS ON YOUR FITNESS AND ACCLIMATIZATION.
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What is included?
-"Walking tour in Cusco", 1 day or 2 days before your treks begin. -Pre-departure briefing, 1 or 2 nights before the trek, provided by your guides. -Tourist bus from your hotel to Mollepata, the beginning of the hike. -Professional bilingual guide. -Assistant guide (groups over 8 people). -Entrance fee for Machu Picchu. -Bus ticket round trip from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu. -Accommodation in 2-Star hotel. -Boiled-cooled water since day 2 at breakfast time. -4 breakfast, 4 lunches, 3 afternoon snacks (happy hour), 4 dinners, 2 snacks for walking (day 1 breakfast is not included). -Cook and cooking equipment. -Four-person tent for two people. -Inflatable mattress. -Horses and a horseman to carry all the equipment. You can leave 6 kilos max. of your belongs to be carried by the horses. -Bottled oxygen and first aid kit. -Train ticket from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo (Expedition service, leaving at 18:20) and bus from Ollantaytambo to Cusco. -No extra cost for vegetarian food on request. Optional items -Shorts (during the day it is normally warm, so take some sun screen and insect repellent). -Walking poles with rubber tips. -Plasters and bandages. -Sandals. Optional services not included -Upgrade of train service to Vistadome Class at 16:22, US$35. -Upgrade of train service to Expedition Class at 14:55 pm, US$20. -Renting of sleeping bag - 4 season, US$20. -Renting of walking poles - US $20 each pair. -Emergency horse for riding until day 2 only - US$60. -Single tent supplement - $30. -Extra night in Aguas Calientes - $60 (2-Star hotel). -Ask for discounts: If you are a student US $20 - ISIC card only (send a copy at booking), teenagers up to 15 years old US $20. *Size of the group: Min. 2 people, max. 16 people. |
What do You need to take?
-Original passport (ISIC student card if applicable). You must bring the passport or ID you used for booking. If you get a new one, it is essential to bring a copy of the old one. -Travel insurance is essential. -A comfortable daypack to carry what you really need for hiking during the day. -Snacks: biscuits, energy bars, chocolate, raw fruits. Our meals are very complete and delicious, but you will realize after walking a couple of hours you want to bite into a cookie! -Sleeping bag -5 C or 23 F at least (not included-you can rent it from us). -Walking boots. -Waterproof gear, rain poncho (just in case during the dry season as well). -Warm jacket and warm clothes (temperature varies from -5 to 24 C, 23 to 75 F ). -Hat, gloves, beanie and sunglasses. -T-shirts. -Comfortable trousers. -Bathing suit (very nice hot springs at Santa Teresa, day 3). -Sun hat. -Sun protection cream (35 SPF recommended). -Insect repellent (20% DEET - no malaria has been reported). -Bottled water. -Water purifying pills. -Toiletries. -Towel. -Personal First Aid kit. -Camera and charger to recharge your batteries on the 3rd and 4th nights. -Flashlight and spare alkaline batteries. -Chap stick. -We recommend packing your belongings in plastic bags due to the rain and bringing a waterproof cover for your day pack. -Extra money (at least 300 soles - ATM in Aguas Calientes only). *Important: To qualify as student, you must have a valid ISIC student card and send a copy at booking. *Advise us about any allergy or personal health condition (asthma, etc). |
Salkantay, Llactapata trek, 5 days FAQ
How long is the Salkantay Trek and how many hours do we hike per a day?
The Salkantay, Llactapata trek is about 72 km (44.7 mi) long. Depending on which campsites are used, the approximate hours hiked per day are as follows. Day 1: 7 hours. Day 2: 9 hours. Day 3: 6 hours. Day 4: 6-9 hours. Day 5: 2 hours
How difficult is the Salkantay Trek?
The Salkantay Trek is considered a moderate hike. The altitude may affect some individuals. We recommend purchasing a pair of walking stick while in Peru as it will help with your balance and reduce the load on your knees. You can use trekking poles too.
Is altitude sickness common? And how high is the Salkantay Trek?
It's impossible to predict who will be affected by altitude. Your ability to adapt to high altitude is determined by your genetic makeup and has little to do with fitness or health. Most people will have no problems as long as they take the time to acclimatize properly. A full day spent in Cusco (3350 m), taking it easy and drinking plenty of water, is usually enough for most people. The highest point you will reach while hiking the Salkantay Trek is 4600 m (15081 ft).
Is it possible to skip the Salkantay Trek even if the tour includes it?
Yes! If you do not wish to hike the Salkantay Trek please advise us at the time of booking (it is very difficult to make these arrangements once you have already confirmed). If you choose not to hike the trail you will spend three nights in Cuzco and then take the train to the town of Aguas Calientes for the fourth night, where you will rejoin your group and spend the night before touring Machu Picchu the following morning.
When do we reach Machu Picchu and how much time do we spend there?
You will reach Machu Picchu early in the morning at 6:00 am on Day 5. You will be guided through an informative 2-hour tour of the ruins. 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, where we catch the train back to Cuzco.
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, such as water, snacks, camera, sweater, rain jacket, etc. (horses will carry luggage for two days only until reaching the second camp site, after which point the cook will be in charge of transporting your belongings to Aguas Calientes).
How cold does it get on the Salkantay Trek (will I need to bring hats and mittens)?
The high 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, so we recommend bringing thermal underwear and a warm sleeping bag for 0 C (32 F). You can purchase warm, inexpensive and locally made hand-woven hats and gloves in Cuzco.
What type of accommodation is used on the Salkantay Trek?
Four-person tents are used to accommodate two same-sex travelers for the first two nights. The third night will be spent in hotel in Aguas Calientes. 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.
Is a sleeping bag and mat included?
Sleeping bags are not included, so we recommend bringing a compact three-season sleeping bag. A popular alternative is to rent a sleeping bag from us in Cusco. They are clean, warm and cost approximately US $20 (for all five days). Some renters may choose to bring a sleeping bag liner or sheet. A self-inflating mattress Therm-a-rest can be rented from us at an additional cost of US $20, but we provide foam camping mattress when you rent the sleeping bag.
Is purified water available on the trek?
We recommend that you bring a refillable water bottle, as boiled water will be provided in the morning at breakfast, at lunch and every evening after dinner.
What type of food will we get on the Salkantay Trek?
Our cooks prepare excellent high-energy meals appropriate for a trek of this nature. The menu usually includes pasta, rice, chicken, fresh fruit and vegetables and a variety of oatmeal, eggs and other breakfast foods. Vegetarian alternatives are available upon request at the time of booking.
How much should I tip the guides and porters?
Tipping is at your discretion but always appreciated.
What are the requirements to hike the Salkantay trek?
To hike the Salkantay trek with INCA HIKE you must be over the age of 08, hikers with moderate level of fitness, and hold a passport that is valid for up to 6 months after your return to your home country.
Bookings must be made as far in advance as possible. To be able to ensure a spot on Machu Picchu, we recommend that you purchase your trip at least 3 months in advance at any season.
We guarantee the availability of a permit by following these guidelines.
We require the following information for the purchase of a Machu Picchu permit.
1. Passport full name (exactly as it appears on the passport).
2. Passport date of birth.
3. Passport nationality.
4. Passport number.
5. Gender.
6. Date of passport expiry - Must be valid for the date of travel.
Any attempts at modifications result in a loss of the permit and any money paid.
The Salkantay, Llactapata trek is about 72 km (44.7 mi) long. Depending on which campsites are used, the approximate hours hiked per day are as follows. Day 1: 7 hours. Day 2: 9 hours. Day 3: 6 hours. Day 4: 6-9 hours. Day 5: 2 hours
How difficult is the Salkantay Trek?
The Salkantay Trek is considered a moderate hike. The altitude may affect some individuals. We recommend purchasing a pair of walking stick while in Peru as it will help with your balance and reduce the load on your knees. You can use trekking poles too.
Is altitude sickness common? And how high is the Salkantay Trek?
It's impossible to predict who will be affected by altitude. Your ability to adapt to high altitude is determined by your genetic makeup and has little to do with fitness or health. Most people will have no problems as long as they take the time to acclimatize properly. A full day spent in Cusco (3350 m), taking it easy and drinking plenty of water, is usually enough for most people. The highest point you will reach while hiking the Salkantay Trek is 4600 m (15081 ft).
Is it possible to skip the Salkantay Trek even if the tour includes it?
Yes! If you do not wish to hike the Salkantay Trek please advise us at the time of booking (it is very difficult to make these arrangements once you have already confirmed). If you choose not to hike the trail you will spend three nights in Cuzco and then take the train to the town of Aguas Calientes for the fourth night, where you will rejoin your group and spend the night before touring Machu Picchu the following morning.
When do we reach Machu Picchu and how much time do we spend there?
You will reach Machu Picchu early in the morning at 6:00 am on Day 5. You will be guided through an informative 2-hour tour of the ruins. 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, where we catch the train back to Cuzco.
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, such as water, snacks, camera, sweater, rain jacket, etc. (horses will carry luggage for two days only until reaching the second camp site, after which point the cook will be in charge of transporting your belongings to Aguas Calientes).
How cold does it get on the Salkantay Trek (will I need to bring hats and mittens)?
The high 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, so we recommend bringing thermal underwear and a warm sleeping bag for 0 C (32 F). You can purchase warm, inexpensive and locally made hand-woven hats and gloves in Cuzco.
What type of accommodation is used on the Salkantay Trek?
Four-person tents are used to accommodate two same-sex travelers for the first two nights. The third night will be spent in hotel in Aguas Calientes. 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.
Is a sleeping bag and mat included?
Sleeping bags are not included, so we recommend bringing a compact three-season sleeping bag. A popular alternative is to rent a sleeping bag from us in Cusco. They are clean, warm and cost approximately US $20 (for all five days). Some renters may choose to bring a sleeping bag liner or sheet. A self-inflating mattress Therm-a-rest can be rented from us at an additional cost of US $20, but we provide foam camping mattress when you rent the sleeping bag.
Is purified water available on the trek?
We recommend that you bring a refillable water bottle, as boiled water will be provided in the morning at breakfast, at lunch and every evening after dinner.
What type of food will we get on the Salkantay Trek?
Our cooks prepare excellent high-energy meals appropriate for a trek of this nature. The menu usually includes pasta, rice, chicken, fresh fruit and vegetables and a variety of oatmeal, eggs and other breakfast foods. Vegetarian alternatives are available upon request at the time of booking.
How much should I tip the guides and porters?
Tipping is at your discretion but always appreciated.
What are the requirements to hike the Salkantay trek?
To hike the Salkantay trek with INCA HIKE you must be over the age of 08, hikers with moderate level of fitness, and hold a passport that is valid for up to 6 months after your return to your home country.
Bookings must be made as far in advance as possible. To be able to ensure a spot on Machu Picchu, we recommend that you purchase your trip at least 3 months in advance at any season.
We guarantee the availability of a permit by following these guidelines.
We require the following information for the purchase of a Machu Picchu permit.
1. Passport full name (exactly as it appears on the passport).
2. Passport date of birth.
3. Passport nationality.
4. Passport number.
5. Gender.
6. Date of passport expiry - Must be valid for the date of travel.
Any attempts at modifications result in a loss of the permit and any money paid.