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Salkantay trek Challenge 3 Days

Salkantay trekking peru

3 Days from $ USD 100.00

Price
Duration
Physical Level
Demanding
Altitude
3700 msnm
Accomodation
Campsite
Salkantay trek Challenge 3 Days

Salkantay trek Challenge 3 Days

Salkantay trekking peru

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3 Days from $ USD 100.00

Salkantay

Overview

Reaching the highest point of the trail is a unique experience, 22km more from the beginning to the top view of the mountain range at the foot of the Salkantay, as well as the famous Apacheta pass (mountain offers) 4621msnm = 15160ft which is for the hikers the most amazing scenery of the Salkantay

Wilderness.While ascending, we enjoy the height of the hill with the colorful landscape, we pass under the Salkantay to indicate the Chaullay base camp in the middle of the dense greenery near the Amazon jungle, through the beautiful landscapes and continuing the adventure through the fruit plantation to the lunch spot on the beach and nap time then by car to the hydroelectric always nearby for see the city of Machupicchu, 10 km to get to Aguas Calientes by train or on foot either way spectacular views of wildlife and aiming for the top of the majestic valley of Machupicchu. Last night, good hotel accommodation and good dinner with the crew, last day finally climb to see the sunrise in the ancient Inca city, guided tour and time to explore on your own in the afternoon , take the train to Cusco.

Trip Details

  • Duration: 3 Days
  • Hiking distance: 50 km – 31 miles
  • Departure: Cusco
  • Difficulty level: moderate to challenging
  • Season: March to December
  • Destination: Machu Picchu
  • Type: Adventure – Camping – Hotela

Highlights

  • Salkantay is definitely one of the best hikes you will find in Cusco and in our country Peru.
  • If you did not choose the Inca Trail, the Salkantay trek is the second most popular trek to Machu Picchu, as well as being the least requested but the most recommended.
  • Walking on the Apu Salkantay side and taking this route to the wonder of the world “Machu Picchu” will be one of the best experiences you will have in our country.
  • You will find the most beautiful snow-capped mountain in the region, beautiful valleys, incredible waterfalls, an amazing aecosystem.
  • The Salkantay trek was named as the best alternative route to Machu Picchu. Looking for a different route to the typical route to Machu Picchu? Don’t miss this list of the six best alternative routes to the Inca Trail.

Day 1

Cusco - Mollepata – Challacancha - Soraypampa -Salkantay Pass - Chaullay

This day will be full of adventures. We will ascend Abra Salkantay early, remember that it will be a challenge, but you will have the best prize when you reach the finish line and enjoy the beauty of the “Apu Salkantay”, before noon everything will change and in the afternoon it will. Feel even more fascinated when you cross the cloud forest on the way to Chaullay and you will be amazed to see almost all day our natural wonder Salkantay.

This hike is really impressive and we will cross a cloud forest for an average of 3 hours and a distance of 10 km – 6.3 miles. This part of the hike is winding and beautiful as it is full of beautiful landscapes and we will be able to appreciate the wildlife and the diversity of flora in the area, we will have the Salkantay all the time behind us until Chaullay (2900 MASL- 9514 FASL) where our second camp will be, after a long and beautiful day to regain strength and continue the adventure.

  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  • Accommodation: Camping
  • Maximum Altitude: 4650 masl
  • Minimum Altitude: 2900 masl
  • Distance Travelled: 22km to Chaullay
Day 2

Chaullay - La Playa - Santa Teresa - Hydroelectric - Aguas Calientes

Adventure with climate change, let’s keep warm clothes, say hello to the mosquitoes and continue the walk through the jungle brow. This day we will leave Salkantay to continue to Sahuayaco beach to have a delicious lunch, the day will be to descend the mountain that we just met and continue to our next goal Machupicchu Step by step we reach our goal, we will cross the Santa Teresa Valley and arrive towards hydroelectric, in the afternoon we continue quietly to Aguas Calientes to have the afternoon free and meet the people, we will sleep at the base of our destination, the energy fills us and the excitement overwhelms us.

We will arrive in the afternoon to the mentioned town that is popularly known as “Aguas Calientes” we will have free time to know this beautiful town, visit the squares, parks and thermal baths of Aguas Calientes (hence the name) (optional), there we will spend the night at the foot of the Inca citadel of Machu Picchu between huge mountains and feeling the energy of the mountains that surround us. Our guide will give us the final details of our visit the next day and give us all the guidelines of the tour.

  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  • Accommodation: Camping
  • Maximum Altitude: 2900 masl
  • Minimum Altitude: 1600 masl
  • Distance Travelled: Approx 16km
Day 3

Aguas Calientes - Machu Picchu - Ollantaytambo - Cusco

We have a scheduled meeting with a wonder, we start very early with the hike to the sanctuary of Machupicchu, we will have a day full of history, architecture, culture, mystery and spirituality. In the afternoon we return to Cusco after this incredible adventure.

We start the last day of our adventure to one of the 7 wonders of the world, we will have breakfast early remember that we still have a walk of about 2 hours climbing some steps to the sanctuary, or we can take the bus that will take us to the Inca city of Machupicchu (optional), The archaeological park is open from 6:00 to 17:00 hours. We will make the visit at the time coordinated with the guide, we will have approximately 2 hours of visit to the most important sites with your guide by the most important places: viewpoint of the guardian’s house, the Inca palace, the priest’s house, the main square, the Intihuatana or sundial, the industrial sectors and the cultivation terraces. You will be amazed at the size of Machupicchu because you will still have many places left to explore, as you can then tour the mysterious city at your own pace. If you still have energy you can also climb Huayna Picchu (2720 MASL / 8923 FASL) It takes 45 minutes to reach the top, this tour is additional and optional and you may have to leave the Machu Picchu tour in order to get a Permit to climb this mountain needs to be booked well in advance (not included).

The return is the same 1 hour and 30 minutes walk to Aguas Calientes or we can take the bus to the town of Aguas Calientes (optional) You will have free time for lunch there (not included) according to the train schedule (30 minutes before) which we will take to Ollantaytambo where the transportation will be waiting for us to transfer us to Cusco as it was coordinated and organized according to the program and itinerary chosen.

  • Meals: Breakfast
  • Tour: Visit to Machu Picchu

Prices Private Service

Number of persons Price per person

Prices Group Service

1 $.00 Inquire Now

Recommendations

1.- In the case of students with a Student card (ask in advance if you get the discount) and Children up to 07 years old, the rates are reduced in the following amounts: Students: US$20.00, and Children: US$60.00.

2.- To climb Cerro Huaynapicchu the entrance fee is US$20.00 and must be purchased in advance. Spaces are limited, at different times from 06:00, 07:00 to 08:00 am and 10:00 to 11:00.

3.- Fares are subject to any increase or readjustment determined by the Ministry of Culture of Peru, Peru Rail SA or Inca Rail and are subject to change depending on the schedule and availability of Peru Rail. The local train is only for Peruvians and the purchase of this is in person and with a copy of your ID.

4.- In the pool system, the group is made up of a minimum of 10 and a maximum of 16 passengers.

5.- The camps can vary according to the weather and the health status of the travelers.

What to Bring

  • A backpack
  • A beanie hat or ear warmer
  • Sun hat
  • Scarf
  • Gloves
  • A mid weight sweater
  • A longsleeve t-shirt
  • 1 – 2 t-shirts
  • A lightweight suater or vest
  • A pair of long pants
  • Hiking shoes
  • An extra pair of shoe
  • 2 – 3 pairs wool socks
  • A jacket
  • A small towel
  • Rain gear
  • 1 – 2 pair shorts
  • Sunglasses
  • A small headlamp
  • Waterbottle
  • A toothbrust and other personal toiletries
  • Toilet paiper
  • Sun cream
  • Insect repelent

Travel Guide

Visa for Peru: Generally if you are Latin American, North American or European you will not need it. If you are a Mercosur citizen, all members can enter Peru with only a valid passport or identity card. If you are from a non-Mercosur country, you will need a valid passport and in some exceptional cases, depending on your country of origin, a visa. Here is the complete list.

If you are a minor, you must be accompanied by your parents. If you are a parent traveling with your child(ren), you will need the child’s marriage certificate and birth certificate.

Vaccinations: No vaccinations are mandatory but the Peruvian Ministry of Health “recommends” vaccination against Yellow Fever to go to certain jungle regions. Normally no one does, so it is up to you whether it is worth the risk or not. In many countries this vaccine is free and when it costs, it is not expensive.

Climate and environment in Cusco: If you are Argentinean, Ecuadorian, Chilean, Colombian or come from a place where it is hot in summer, it is likely to be the opposite in Cusco. Do not think that your summer is replicated in this region. The periods of intense rain and cold are between December and April, while in the capital it is very hot. Whether it is summer or winter, it gets cold in Cusco at some point during the day. Always carry a coat. It is typical to feel hot in sunny places and cold in shady places. The sun is radiant, and with the climate of the place it can damage your skin. Bring sunscreen and/or buy in pharmacies cocoa paste tablets that are very cheap and useful.

Machu Picchu, unlike the city of Cusco, is located in the jungle, that is, in a hybrid point where the highlands meet the jungle and the vegetation changes at times showing characteristics of both regions. The best time to visit is usually between July and October (high season), when it does not rain so much and there are always blue skies, however this place is visited all year round and never disappoints.

Altitude sickness: Perhaps you have never experienced the lack of oxygen. This is commonly felt in Cusco due to the altitude and makes everything cost you triple the effort so don’t count on your usual physical stamina which will be diminished. Your digestion will be a little slower and your sleep dense and deep. The ideal is to be calm the first day to acclimatize. It is very common that all pharmacies sell pills for altitude sickness. Coca tea also helps, as well as candies.

Health and safety: The city of Cusco is safe in the places where you will be surrounded by tourists, the center, the Sacred Valley, Machu Picchu. Avoid walking alone in the markets at night or too far from the center with valuables and looking like a tourist. Be mindful of your pockets at fairs or areas where you are in close proximity to people. In one of the most touristy cities in the world, petty theft and scams are to be expected. To avoid them, simply don’t leave your valuables unattended and don’t rely on free stuff. Don’t rely on unwarranted excesses of kindness from strangers, who will usually always want something from you.

Hygiene is very important to maintain your health. Try, whenever possible, to see how the food you are served is treated. It is common for tourists to get sick to their stomachs from tasting everything. To avoid this, be cautious and avoid things sold on buses and by street vendors, especially fried foods and artisanal cheeses that can carry dangerous bacteria. Boiled, freshly made or well-washed foods will almost always be fine. Long hikes over rocky terrain can make you easy prey for dislocations or similar injuries. Wear good footwear. Cuzco has good restrooms that cater specifically to tourists. To access them do not forget to have traveler’s insurance. Compare them all here so you can choose the cheapest travel insurance.

Discounts: If you are a student it is convenient to get the ISIC card (International Student Identity Card) that allows you to have discounts in hostels, besides getting the ticket to climb Machu Picchu (costs 128 soles) at half price as well as the tourist ticket in Cusco and other advantages (costs about $18).

Accommodation: Peru is one of the cheapest countries in South America, so you can get rooms at ridiculous prices. However, what you get is in direct relation to what you pay. You can check the accommodations, see photos and compare all accommodations at http://hospedaje.mochileros.org to get a clearer idea.

 

Faqs Salkantay trek Challenge 3 Days

Frequently Asked Questions

Why should I book Salkantay Trek in advance?

Entrance tickets to Machu Picchu are very limited, there are only 2500 entrance tickets per day and they sell out much faster.

That is the main reason to book your tickets in advance (4-6 months in advance), and keep in mind that during high season (May to September) it is recommended to book min. 8 to 10 months in advance.

What happens if I get sick and need to come back?

This does not happen very often; however, if it does, our guides are very experienced and know how to deal with any emergency or unexpected event; they will do everything possible to help you complete your hike. In addition, first aid kits and oxygen tanks are carried for emergencies. However, if you become seriously ill and need to return to Cusco, you will be attended to quickly and arrangements will be made for you.

The Salkantay Trek is considered among the best in the world and if you want to enjoy it, don’t look at it as a race. “Go at your own pace,” enjoy the views, take pictures and catch your breath. Even the most leisurely hikers arrive at the camping areas before dark.

The guide will always go with the last person in the group, giving instructions to the faster hikers, so they know where the stop and meeting points are along the route, so stay calm and enjoy hiking with us! !

When is the best time to do the Salkantay Trek?

The best season to do the Salkantay Trek is from May to September, as this time coincides with the vacations in the western hemisphere. These months probably offer the best conditions for trekking with dry and sunny weather. Of course, as we said before, permits must be booked many months in advance. April, October and November are also good months to do the Inca Trail; there are fewer hikers, although it is likely to rain at least one day during the trek.

How many days do I have to acclimatize?

Minimum we recommend to acclimatize two days, then start this trek during the five days to Machupicchu, the most difficult part is only the second day, is the rest of the continuous days are easy to walk, plus a favorable climate with a hot climate at 22 degrees during the day and minimum 12c°.

What is the best time to hike Salkantay?

efinitely the rainy seasons can not be done, because they will be covered with snow and is a risk for visitors themselves and the assimilas carrying luggage of the whole group, so it is only recommended for the months of April to December.

Can I do the Inca Trail and Salkantay?

Yes, you can do the Inca Trail with humantay lagoon in salkantay, this lagoon is very beautiful turquoise in front of the glaciers of mount humantay, with an itinerary of one day, make the most of your days in our country.

Is experience necessary to do Salkantay?

Experience is not necessary, so only a good acclimatization can be done without problems, therefore, you can also ride a horse and cross the most difficult part of the pass without problems.

Also minors are invited to climb without or with the help of horses, for this we provide first aid such as oxygen balloon, emergency horses during the three days.

Book Now

Thank you for your interest in having an adventure travel experience in Peru operated by "Machu Picchu Andes Tours". Please take a moment to complete our short form so that one of our friendly adventure consultants can provide you with all the information for the best trip of your life in Peru.

Recommendations

1.- In the case of students with a Student card (ask in advance if you get the discount) and Children up to 07 years old, the rates are reduced in the following amounts: Students: US$20.00, and Children: US$60.00.

2.- To climb Cerro Huaynapicchu the entrance fee is US$20.00 and must be purchased in advance. Spaces are limited, at different times from 06:00, 07:00 to 08:00 am and 10:00 to 11:00.

3.- Fares are subject to any increase or readjustment determined by the Ministry of Culture of Peru, Peru Rail SA or Inca Rail and are subject to change depending on the schedule and availability of Peru Rail. The local train is only for Peruvians and the purchase of this is in person and with a copy of your ID.

4.- In the pool system, the group is made up of a minimum of 10 and a maximum of 16 passengers.

5.- The camps can vary according to the weather and the health status of the travelers.

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