This trip perfectly combines cultural and natural beauty. We will enjoy the magnificent view of the ecosystem surrounding the snow-capped Salkantay, which is considered the most representative mountain of the Vilcabamba highlands. The trip reminds us of the time of the Incas and makes us aware of the spirits of mountains like the Tucarhuay or the Humantay, whose peak is higher.
Read through our Frequently Asked Questions before your trek to make sure you feel as prepared as possible before your departure.
This trip perfectly combines cultural and natural beauty.
We will enjoy the magnificent view of the ecosystem surrounding the snow-capped Salkantay, which is considered the most representative mountain of the Vilcabamba highlands.
The trip reminds us of the time of the Incas and makes us aware of the spirits of mountains like the Tucarhuay or the Humantay, whose peak is higher than 5000 m.
🗻 This tour includes sensitive destinations, therefore we request you to be as environmentally friendly as possible.
🌽 All food on this tour is prepared mostly with local ingredients.
🍃 Hotels with this mark are sustainable. We hope you will take them into account when making your reservation.
TRIP SUMMARY
Day 1: Cusco - Mollepata (Marcoccasa) - Soraypampa
Day 2: Salkantay Pampa - Paso de Salkantay - Chaullay
Day 3: Chaullay - Wiñaypoco - La Playa - Lucmabamba
Day 4: Lucmabamba - Llactapata - Aguas Calientes
Day 5: Aguas Calientes - Machu Picchu - Cusco
At 4:30 AM, we will leave Cusco and head toward Marcoccasa (3,400 m/11,154 ft), passing through the picturesque village of Mollepata (3,000 m/9,843 ft). In Marcoccasa, we will meet the rest of our group, as well as the horses and wranglers who will assist us throughout the journey.
We will begin our trek through a breathtaking valley, surrounded by the towering snow-capped peaks of the Andes, including the majestic Humantay (5,217 m/17,116 ft) and the imposing Salkantay (6,264 m/20,551 ft). As we hike, we will take in the incredible landscapes and immerse ourselves in the raw beauty of the region.
Our first campsite will be in Soraypampa, where we will rest beneath the shadow of these awe-inspiring mountains, preparing for the adventure that lies ahead.
the shadow of these awe-inspiring mountains, preparing for the adventure that lies ahead.
Altitude: 20,551 feet
Meals: Lunch, Dinner
Accommodations: Camping
After breakfast, we will set out towards the Salkantay Pass (4,600m/15,092ft), where we will be rewarded with a breathtaking view of the towering, snow-capped Salkantay Mountain (6,264m/20,551ft). Standing at this impressive altitude, we will take in the grandeur of one of the most majestic peaks in the region.
From here, we will begin our descent, gradually transitioning into a lush and diverse ecosystem. As we make our way down, we will have time to appreciate the increasing vegetation and the vibrant scenery that surrounds us.
Our campsite for the night will be in Collpapampa (3,000m/9,842ft), nestled within the tropical cloud forest, where we will rest and prepare for the next stage of our journey.
Altitude: 13,500 feet
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodations: Camping
We will have breakfast at 6:00 a.m. and shortly after begin hiking for 5 ½ hours through the jungle over many ascents and descents. In this area we will pass by many coffee and orchid plantations as well as many other plants used for medicinal purposes. We will arrive at our lunch spot in Playa Sahuayaco where we will take a bus (Lucmabamba campsite). Here you have the option to visit the thermal baths located in Cocalmayo (Santa Teresa), which is not included in the package. We will return to our campsite at 6:00 pm for tea and later dinner.
Altitude: 8,694 feet
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodations: Camping
In Lucmabamba we will begin the day with breakfast at 6:30 am and be ready to we will continue our trekking for Llactapata for 2 hours, then we will descend to the Hidroelectrica for 2 hours where we will have lunch in a restaurant. After lunch we will continue our hike for 3 more hours towards Aguas Calientes where we will stay in a hostel and have dinner at 6.30 pm.
Altitude: 8,694 feet
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodations: Overnight Hostel Stay in Aguas Calientes
The long-awaited day has arrived! After days of trekking, we will finally have the privilege of visiting the majestic citadel of Machu Picchu.
We will leave the hotel early in the morning, taking the bus at 5:30 AM to reach Machu Picchu just in time for sunrise. we will have a guided tour of the citadel to see and learn about temples, terraces, and all of the incredible stone structures that make Machu Picchu a Wonder of the World. After the guided tour you will have free time for more photos and to continue exploring on your own. For those who have previously selected to climb *Huayna Picchu Mountain or *Machu Picchu Mountain, you will do so at your designated time (1st group: 6am to 8am, 2nd group: 9am to 11am).
Meals: Breakfast
RETURN TO CUSCO BY TRAIN:
The train is a beautiful way to return to Cusco and allows you more time (about 7-8 hours) to visit Machu Picchu. If you are planning to hike Huaynapicchu or Machu Picchu Mountain, we strongly advise you to take the train, as these hikes require a minimum of 3 hours to complete. You will need to return to Aguas Calientes in time for your train at 6:20 pm. You may want to give yourself extra time, as some people like to explore the town. You’ll ride the train for about 1.5 hours to Ollantaytambo from Aguas Calientes town, where you will then switch to a car and finish the final 2 hours of the trip, arriving in Cusco around 10:00 pm.
RETURN TO CUSCO BY CAR:
Returning to Cusco by car is a more affordable option for those on a tight budget. However, please be aware that with this option, you’ll have less time to explore Machu Picchu, and if you are planning to hike Huaynapicchu or Machu Picchu Mountain, you will be very tight on time.
The return to Cusco by car is a longer trip (a 6-hour drive in total), as there are no roads leading to Aguas Calientes and the driver must take a longer route back. If you are taking a car back, you will need to leave Machu Picchu by 11:30 m and take the 3-hour walk back to Hidroelectrica, where you will meet the car at 3:00 pm.
If you are considering this option and planning to hike Huaynapicchu or Machu Picchu Mountain, we recommend you stay one more night in Aguas Calientes and return to Cusco by car on the 6th day so that you can fully enjoy the experience.
BRIEFING:
Prior to departure you will have a meeting with your guide in our office to go over all the details regarding your tour. The orientation will be around 6:00 pm the night before your trip.
CAMPING EQUIPMENT:
Tents, sleeping mats, cooking tent, dining tent, tables, chairs, cooking utensils, etc.
EXPERIENCE OF OUR GUIDES :
All of our guides have a minimum of 3 years of guiding experience. They are professional, responsible, and all have a deep love and respect for mother nature and her mountains. They will make sure your trip is safe and enjoyable.
FIRST AID:
All of our guides are certified in high mountain first aid training. They always carry a first aid kit on our treks (including pills for altitude sickness, diarrhea, vomiting, cuts, and cream for muscle aches). They also carry extra oxygen in cases of emergency.
TRANSPORTATION:
Our private transport vehicles will come pick you up at your hotel the morning of your trip and take you to your trek starting point. You will also return in our vehicles to Cusco at the end of the trek.
ENTRANCE TICKETS:
CAMPING EQUIPMENT
In Lucmabamba we stay in a covered camping site, we included
ACCOMMODATION: CAMPSITE AND HOSTEL
We have camps set up in every designated CAMPING SITE, which include:
The last night accommodation that is included will be in a Hostel in the town of Aguas Calientes.
NOTE: If you wish to reserve your own hotel or work with a specifc hotel, let us know in advance so that we are able to coordinate the details.
FOOD:
4 BREAKFASTS, 4 LUNCHES, AND 4 DINNERS:
Our talented chefs will prepare you a delicious and filling breakfast, lunch, and dinner throughout your trek. Our clients have loved the food prepared for them on their treks, and our chefs are also able to accommodate any dietary restrictions (such as vegetarian or vegan) at no extra cost. Please let your guide know at orientation if you have any dietary restrictions or allergies so we can organize them ahead of time.
All of the food we offer is BUFFET SERVICE (except for the fourth lunch and fourth dinner, which are in tourist restaurants)
The pricing for the Salkantay route to Machu Picchu depends on the package type.
Adult: $450.00 USD per person
The accommodation in Aguas Calientes is in a comfortable category and includes:
Toiletries and towels
Private bathroom
Hot shower
Wi-Fi in common areas
Continental breakfast, with option to take breakfast to Machu Picchu
We recommend staying at least 2 to 3 days in the city of Cusco to properly acclimate and avoid possible altitude-related discomfort during your trip.
If you have already been to another high-altitude destination before arriving in Cusco, we still suggest spending at least one full day in Cusco to rest, recover from your journey, and enjoy the city’s beautiful views before starting the trek.
In general, Salkantay is known for its unpredictable weather, so regardless of the time of year, it is important to be prepared for both cold and warm temperatures, as well as dry and rainy conditions.
There are two main seasons:
Average daytime temperature: 15°C / 60°F
Nighttime temperature: 5°C / 40°F
High chance of rain and wind, especially at the Salkantay Pass, which can make temperatures feel colder.
Mostly sunny and clear weather
Average daytime temperature: 20°C / 70°F
Cold nights, reaching -3°C / 26°F
After the second day, as we descend into the Amazon basin, the climate becomes warmer and more humid, and these conditions remain consistent throughout the year.
Yes. Sleeping bags are available for rent at USD 10. They are down-filled and suitable for temperatures as low as -10°C.
Yes. A pair of trekking poles can be rented for USD 10.
Yes. You may leave additional luggage at our office free of charge.
At the campsites, we provide:
Andean huts and tents
Tents with a 4-person capacity, used by only 2 people
Sleeping pads included
In Aguas Calientes, accommodation is in a hostel.
Minimum: 4 people
Maximum: 16 people
For groups of 16, an assistant guide will be included.
Chewing coca leaves
Drinking coca tea or chamomile tea
Informing your guide of any discomfort
Our guides are trained professionals and carry Sorochin pills, coca leaves, agua florida, and extra oxygen.
Previous trekking experience is recommended but not required.
Our guides assist hikers of all fitness and experience levels. Proper acclimatization is the most important factor.
Yes. On Day 2, during the ascent from Soraypampa to the Salkantay Pass, you can rent a horse for 100 Peruvian soles (approximately a 3-hour ride).
We recommend bringing around 300 Peruvian soles, preferably in small bills.
Yes. The Machu Picchu entrance ticket is included in all of our tours.
Total allowed time: 3 hours
Guided tour: 2 hours
Free time: 1 hour
⚠️ Please note: the route is one-way only, and re-entry is not permitted.
No refunds are provided. Any return costs are the responsibility of the traveler. Transportation options are available at the campsites, and your guide can assist you.
The best time to make the trip is in the dry season, that is, between May and October. The most advisable month is May since everything is still green after the rains. On the other hand, the coldest month is June.
First of all, a backpack, in addition to the one that will carry the horse, as well as a sleeping bag of at least -5 degrees. The clothing should be suitable for trekking in a highland climate, with heat during the day and very cold at night. To store clothes, bring 3 bags that allow you to keep clean clothes separate from dirty ones. Don’t forget personal hygiene items for 4 days of trekking, such as towels, soap, toothbrushes, and toothpaste, toilet paper, etc. Bring the medicines you consider necessary for headaches or altitude sickness, as well as band-aids for wounds or blisters. It is important to have a flashlight with batteries, especially for the last day, because we will wake up at 4:00 am. If you want to visit some communities, it would be a nice gesture to bring pencils, colors, pens, notebooks, or books that you would like to donate. Don’t forget to bring a good camera with a charged battery, as well as sunglasses, a hat, and sunscreen.
It is important to acclimatize before starting the trek, arriving in Cusco 2 or 3 days in advance. Pills for altitude sickness also help and are widely used by tourists. You should drink plenty of water to hydrate the body, especially coca tea. It is important to eat light, that is, meals that are easy to digest, such as soups, vegetables, and carbohydrates that are not fried. Sleep as much as you can and you will feel much better. Keep your body warm and don’t forget to eat before you feel hungry, drink before you feel thirsty, wrap up warm before you feel cold, and rest before you feel exhausted.
During the whole Salkantay Trek 2 Days, you will travel with experienced and trained guides to assist you in any situation, ask all the questions you need to ask to be prepared, and have the best experience in the Salkantay trek!
Wool hat or beanie
T-shirt
Layer
A jacket, if it is not waterproof take also rain poncho
Pants on
Hiking shoes, also you can do on sneakers
Sunglasses
Gloves
Small Backpack to carry water, some snacks, a camera, etc.
Water, we recommend you 2 liters of water but you can also buy on the way
Snacks like an apple, cereal bar, sweets, and chocolates
Sun cream
Rain poncho
BOOKING CONDITIONS
GENERAL CONDITIONS
Ecosaq Travel S.A.C., Travel Agency and Tour Operator, is committed to providing friendly, professional, and personalized service to all travelers. From the moment you contact us, throughout your stay, and during the trek or tour, you will receive personalized assistance and an unforgettable experience.
Ecosaq Travel S.A.C. reserves the right to cancel or modify any trip due to weather conditions, landslides, political situations, pandemics, or other force majeure events. We also reserve the right to cancel a tour if a participant is unable to take part due to age, health conditions, lack of physical preparation, intoxication, or similar reasons.
Ecosaq Travel S.A.C. strongly recommends purchasing travel insurance in your country of origin before joining any tour or trek. We cannot be held responsible for personal injuries, loss, or damage to personal belongings.
Trips missed due to the situations mentioned above (weather conditions or political circumstances) are non-refundable, but may be rescheduled for another date.
Ecosaq Travel S.A.C. reserves the right to cancel a participant’s tour if the full balance has not been paid at least 24 hours before departure, unless an alternative agreement has been made with the staff of Ecosaq Travel .
Ecosaq Travel S.A.C. reserves the right to work with partner agencies or other service providers if, on certain dates, there are not enough participants to operate a tour independently.
In the event that damage is caused to third parties, all costs claimed by Ecosaq Travel S.A.C. as a result of such incidents will be charged to the participant, who will not be entitled to further claims.
If a participant wishes to cancel their trip, any potential refund will be processed according to the decision of Ecosaq Travel S.A.C., in accordance with the Cancellation and Refund Policy detailed below.
CANCELLATION & REFUND POLICY
50% Deposit Payment
Refunds will only be considered in exceptional and serious situations (as described below).
DEADLINES TO CHANGE TOUR DATES
Date changes are subject to availability of Inca Trail permits, Machu Picchu tickets, and hotels, and may be made without administrative charges as follows:
CANCELLATION DEADLINES
Cancellations will only be accepted in writing and must be received at least 20 days prior to the departure date.
If cancellation is requested within 20 days of departure, 100% of the total tour cost will be charged.
Cancellations Due to Serious Illness or Other Serious Circumstances
(Subject to evaluation by the Ecosaq Travel S.A.C. Reservations Department)
RESERVATIONS & PAYMENTS
STEP ONE – Reservation
To reserve your tour, package, or trek to Machu Picchu, please complete your reservation on our website using the following link:
👉 https://www.ecosaqtravel.com/
Please have the following information ready for each participant, as we cannot purchase Machu Picchu tickets or permits without it:
Clear photos of each participant’s passport are required.
STEP TWO – 50% Deposit
A 50% deposit per person is required to purchase permits and entrance tickets.
After COVID-19, the fastest and most cost-effective method is Online payments -IZIPAY
Recipient details:
After completing the transfer, please send a photo or screenshot of the receipt via WhatsApp (+51) 939 485 224 or email to:
📧 ecosaq.peru@gmail.com
WHAT ABOUT THE BALANCE?
The remaining 50% balance may be paid:
ADMINISTRATIVE CHANGE FEES
INSURANCE
All participants are strongly advised to purchase travel and/or medical insurance in their country of origin.
Participants are responsible for ensuring that their insurance adequately covers the activities involved in the tour or trek.
You may be asked to present proof of insurance before the start of your itinerary.
VISAS
Currently, visitors from Western Europe, the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, Australia, and New Zealand do not require a visa to enter Peru.
However, all travelers are responsible for verifying their specific visa requirements. Visitors from other countries should consult their local Peruvian Embassy or Consulate.
PRIVACY POLICY
Machupicchu Trekking Perú E.I.R.L., Travel Agency and Tour Operator, is committed to maintaining your trust and the absolute confidentiality of your personal information.
Your email address and WhatsApp number will never be shared with third parties.
IMAGE & PROPERTY RIGHTS
Machupicchu Trekking Perú E.I.R.L. reserves the right to use photos and images taken during our services for promotional purposes, unless the participant explicitly states their refusal in advance.
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