Classic Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu 4 days

FAQs Frequently asked questions of our travelers

How much time do I get for the guided tour of Machu Picchu and what areas are covered?

• The guided tour inside the Inca Citadel of Machu Picchu lasts approximately 2 hours. During this time, a professional guide will take you through the most emblematic sites of the circuit, such as the Temple of the Sun, the Temple of the Condor, the Main Plaza, and the Intihuatana, explaining the history and significance of this sacred place.

What is the distance and estimated time for the walk from Machupicchu to Hidroeléctrica?

• After your visit to Machu Picchu, the walk to Hidroeléctrica takes around 3.5 hours in total.
• This journey includes an initial descent of about 1 hour down a steep path to Aguas Calientes town, followed by a mostly flat trail of about 2.5 hours that runs alongside the train tracks, offering spectacular views of the jungle environment.

Is it necessary to acclimatize before starting the Salkantay Trekking, and why?

• Yes, acclimatization is essential for your health and to fully enjoy the trek. We highly recommend arriving in Cusco 1 or 2 days before your trek’s start date.
• This time will allow your body to adjust to the altitude of 3,400 meters (11,152 feet) and significantly reduce the risk of altitude sickness, especially on the demanding second day of the trek.

Can vegetarians, vegans, or people with food allergies join the trek?

• Absolutely. We are fully prepared to cater to vegetarians, vegans, and individuals with any type of food allergy or dietary restriction.
• All you need to do is notify us in advance when you book so our chef can prepare delicious and safe meals tailored to your needs throughout the expedition.

What is the best time of year to do the Salkantay Trekking?

• The best time to do the Salkantay Trek is during the dry season, which runs from April to October.
• During this period, the chances of rain are low, and the skies are usually clear, allowing for breathtaking views. However, the trek can be done year-round, even in the rainy season (November to March), when the landscape is greener, albeit with the possibility of slippery trails.

What is the difficulty level of the 4-day, 3-night classic Salkantay Trek?

• The Classic Salkantay Trek is considered a moderate to challenging trekking. The second day is the most demanding, as it involves ascending to the highest point, the Salkantay Pass (4,630 m / 15,190 ft).
• While the effort is considerable, the panoramic views and the natural beauty of the route make every step worthwhile.

What personal or camping gear is included in the tour price?

• The Classic Salkantay Trekking package includes all essential camping gear, such as high-quality tents, inflatable sleeping pads, and thermal mats.
• However, it’s important to know that trekking poles and sleeping bags are generally not included, but you can easily rent them at our office in Cusco before departure – Peru.

What kind of restrooms and showers are available at the campsites (sky lodge) on the trekking?

• The campsites along the Salkantay Trek have basic restrooms and showers (sky lodge). It’s important to note that conditions can be rustic.
• Some of the more developed campsites offer hot showers for a small extra fee, so we suggest bringing some cash.

What should I bring in my daypack for the daily hikes?

• For the daily hikes, we recommend only carrying the essentials in your daypack: a reusable water bottle, a hat, sunscreen, insect repellent, energy snacks, your passport, a camera, and a light rain jacket.
• Your main luggage will be transported by mule drivers, so you won’t have to carry it.

How is the main luggage managed during the trekking days?

• For your convenience and peace of mind, your main luggage (backpack or suitcase) will be transported by mule drivers, and you will only have access to it at the campsites.
• Our service includes secure and free luggage storage for any extra bags you don’t want to bring on the trek.

How do we get back to Cusco from Machupicchu? Are there return options?

• We offer two return options for you to choose from, depending on your travel plan. The classic option is the train ride from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo or Poroy, where a bus will be waiting to take you back to Cusco.
• The alternative is the return by car from Hidroeléctrica, a longer but more budget-friendly trip.

Is it mandatory to hire a guide, or can I do the Salkantay Trekking on my own?

• While the route does not require a mandatory guide permit like the Inca Trail, it is highly recommended to go with an agency and a professional guide.
• This not only ensures your safety but also enriches the experience by providing cultural, historical, and botanical information about the journey, making the trek more complete and secure.

What do I do with my large backpack that I won’t need during the trekking?

Don’t worry about the extra luggage. Our service includes a secure and free storage at our office in Cusco for any bags or backpacks you won’t be using during the hike.

This way, you only need to carry the essentials for the trekking days in your daypack.

Are there electricity or charging options for electronic devices during the trekking?

Yes, in some of the more developed campsites, there is access to electricity to charge phones or batteries, although sometimes it’s for an additional fee and with limited availability.

We recommend bringing a power bank to ensure you can charge your devices, especially if you plan to use your camera frequently.

What kind of clothes should I bring for the trekking? Is it necessary to pack for both cold and warm weather?

The Salkantay trek passes through different ecosystems, from the cold of the high mountains to the warm jungle climate. Therefore, it is essential to dress in layers.

We recommend bringing warm clothing for the cold nights and mornings, such as a down jacket or fleece. For the day, lightweight and breathable clothing is ideal. A hat, gloves, and thick socks are indispensable for the second night of the trek.

Is the MachuPicchu ticket and the bus ride up included?

The entrance ticket to the citadel of MachuPicchu is included in our tour price. However, the bus that goes up from Aguas Calientes to the entrance of MachuPicchu is not included.

Most travelers prefer to walk up (approximately 1 hour), but if you wish, you can buy a bus ticket in Aguas Calientes – Cusco – Peru.

5. Are there any additional fees or extra money I should bring?

Yes. We recommend bringing cash (Peruvian soles) for additional expenses not covered by the tour. These might include the use of hot showers at some campsites, buying extra snacks or drinks, and tips for the mule drivers and the guide operator. Tipping amounts are at the traveler’s discretion but are an excellent way to show appreciation for the team’s hard work.