Detailed Itinerary
Our day starts at 6am, when we pick you up at your hotel and drive in our private van for 3.5 hours towards Soraypampa. Along the way, you can enjoy some glorious views of the villages of Izcuchaca, Limatambo, stunning valleys and the breathtaking Salkantay snow-capped mountain. At the trailhead, (Soraypampa) we power up with our delictable breakfast while admiring the exhilarating views of the glaciers of Humantay (5,900m/19,356ft) and Salkantay (6,217m/20,396ft).Then we slowy make our way up for about 2 hours up to the turquoise colored Humantay Lake. We continue with a gentle ascension for 1.5 hours towards Salkantay Pampa, where our trekking chefs will have our delicious and hearty lunch waiting for us with a beautiful view of a glacier. Next, we follow an alternate route hiking uphill for about an hour, trekking along switchbacks, until we arrive at our first campsite at Soroccocha.
Soroccocha is located at the foot of the great Salkantay Mountain. On arrival at your campsite, you’ll enjoy a cup of coffee or hot chocolate and a dainty afternoon snack before dinner. As always GPT will set up an upscale dining experience for you, complete with your choice of refreshments. The views on this day are truly out of this world.
***PLEASE NOTE: We recommend that you bring with you a 30l backpack on the trek in order to carry and fit all your daily essentials.
- Meals: Breakfast – Lunch – Afternoon Tea – Dinner – Snacks – Drinks
- Accommodation: Glamping facilities
- Distance: 10kms/6 miles
- Time: 6hrs approximately
- Difficulty: Moderate
After a scrumptious breakfast, we set off for a moderate climb for your second day on the trail. Within an hour, you will reach the highest point of the trek (4,650m/15,367ft). From here, we take a moment to enjoy nature at its purest form, feeling at one with the massive snow-capped mountains, Salkantay (6,217m/20,717ft), Humantay, Huayanay, accompanied by white lively rivers and small sparkling lakes. You will want to take some time here to enjoy the striking and truly exquisite turquoise Salkantay Lake. After about half an hour for photos and enjoying the view, we continue down towards Rayanniyoc for lunch.
Our finish line for the day is another two hours to the small village of Colpapampa to spend the night. GPT will provide facilities for you to a grab shower and also take advantage of our free inhouse massuese before dinner. Its of the utmost importance to us that your night is restful, so that your energies are replenished for the next day.
- Meals: Breakfast – Lunch – Afternoon Tea – Dinner- Drinks
- Accommodation: Glamping facilities
- Distance: 16kms/10 miles
- Time: 8hrs approximately
- Difficulty: Challenging
Our crew will start your day with another impressive meal, before we head back on the trail. The midway point is already behind you. Within 3 hours of walking, the beginning of the lush tropical rainforest is apparent as we descend towards the Amazon. You will see undulating hills, blanketed by plantations of bountiful fruit bearing trees, coffee and cacao trees. The change in altitude will be obvious with the flowering orchids and plenty of different bird species to see. Many of the species in this area are endemic to Peru! We arrive at the wonderful Lucmabamaba for lunch with sufficient time carved in to get some rest .
After lunch, we will have an incredible experience touring a coffee plantation adjacent to the lunch spot. We begin by observing the fields, learning about the different types of coffee beans and even picking our own. Engulfed within the fields of tomatoes and avocados, are multiple ecosystems, which our guide will point out and explain. We will pick our own fresh produce, which our trekking chef will use for our dinner.
Around 3pm, we will travel by van for about 30 minutes to the natural hot springs at Cocalmayo. Here, we will soak our tired muscles in the naturally hot mineral water, which mother earth has provided for us. Upon your return, our trekking chef will have created his specialty with our fresh produce from the day. This is also your last night Glamping, the next night will be spent in a comfortable hotel bed.
- Meals: Breakfast – Lunch – Afternoon Tea – Dinner – Drinks
- Accommodation: Glamping facilities
- Distance: 14kms
- Time: 5 to 6 hrs approximately
- Difficulty : Moderate
After a delicious breakfast by our chef, we will continue along the ancient and remote Inca Trail, heading uphill towards the Puncuyoc Pass (2,700m/8,858ft). Along the way, you will need to prepare yourself for fantastic views of these unique valleys and fruit plantations. We arrive at Llactapata Inca Ruins, located directly across from Machu Picchu, where we will appreciate the strategic location of the Grand Citadel of Machu Picchu and its two surrounding mountains Huyana Picchu and Machu Picchu poised above the Aobamba Canyon.
With these striking views still on our minds, we descend for 2 hours to the Hydroelectric plant, the primary power source for Cusco, for lunch. Then, it’s the last leg of the journey walking to Aguas Calientes through the National Park of Machu Picchu. Feel your adrenaline start to swirl in your veins as you come closer to the mystical Machu Picchu and the ancient wall that surrounds the Inca Citadel. Finally we arrive in the Quaint town of Aguas Calientes and check into your luxurious hotel for a well deserved good night sleep. Soak into a bath and get ready for your Machu Picchu adventure the next day.
- Meals: Breakfast – Lunch – Dinner
- 4* Accommodation: El Mapi
- Distance: 15kms / 9 miles
- Time: 9hrs approximately
- Difficulty : Moderate
This is the day you´ve been waiting for! Wake up early to a new day of adventure, spending the day with our majestic Machu Picchu. Following in the ancient and remote footsteps of the “Lost City of the Incas,” listen carefully to your guide explain the historical and cultural significance of this UNESCO World Heritage Site. You will also have free time to explore, take photos or climb Huayna Picchu and Machu Picchu Mountain. Afterwards, we go back to Aguas Calientes and at 4:43pm, we return by Vistadome Train to Ollantaytambo train station. From there, we drive back to your hotel in Cusco, arriving at about 8:30pm.
- Meal: Breakfast
- Difficulty: Easy
WHAT IS INCLUDED FOR SALKANTAY TREK
A hand-crafted and fully personalized Premium Package from start to finish.
- Briefing: We give you all the information needed in order for you to have a pleasant trek with very little surprises. The best part is that we will conduct your briefing in the comfort of your hotel.
- Duffel bag: During your briefing we provide a duffel bag for you to pack your clothing and other necessities for the trek. The porters will carry your duffel bag and you will only have excess to it at the end of each trekking day. We recommend that you carry a 30L backpack for your daily personal belongings such as a warm jacket, a rain jacket, your camera, sunscreen, snacks, water, etc.
- First aid and Emergency Oxygen Tank: Your safety is our number one priority. For this reason, our guides are CPR and First Aid trained annually by the Fire department or Red Cross. If you get one of the worst symptoms for altitude sickness which is loss of oxygen, we do carry an oxygen tank so you can get immediate assistance. We are also prepared for minor injuries on the trek, we administer quick and effective treatment, so you can continue with your trekking.
- Satellite phone: We use a Satellite phone on all our treks that are 3 days or more. Each guide carries a phone that is fully charged and ready to use. In extreme cases, whereby you experience serious health issues, we can call emergency services immediately. We get you to the nearest town for medical assistance or transportation. If your condition is urgent and you need to be airlifted to a hospital, this can also be arranged. The trekker is liable for all medical costs incurred, including the airlift (travel insurance is essential). On the lighter side. Our satellite phone can be used to touch base at home or to give a loud shout from the top of the Andes. All personal calls will cost you US$2.00 per minute.
- Door to door service: The day of your trek we will pick you up at your hotel in Cusco. On return we will drop off at your hotel in Cusco.
- Separated private transportation: Our staff members and camping equipment travel in a separate van. You, your guide and fellow travelers travel in total peace and privacy.
- Bus tickets and Train Tickets: After your privately guided tour of Machu Picchu,we include a bus ticket to the nearby town of Aguas Calientes, to catch the Train to Ollantaytambo. Glamping Peru also includes the spectacular Vistadome train with leather seats designed to conform to your body. This train has the best views of valley, mountains and river decorating the landscape as you make your way back to Ollantaytambo.
- Entrance Tickets into Machu Picchu : As soon as you confirm your booking and pay the deposit, we purchase your entrance ticket into Machu Picchu. These tickets sell out very fast. Our super team behind the laptops ensure that all tickets are purchased timeously and you don’t miss out on your great adventure. The personal information you give us has to be 100% accurate because even our awesome team won´t be able help edit details once they have purchased the tickets on your behalf and there are absolutely no refunds on the tickets.
- Professional Bilingual Guide: You will have a guide thats highly professional, experienced and fluent in English throughout the trek. They are very knowledgeable and passionate about Inca heritage and history. You will get a two hour fully guided tour of Machu Picchu. Our guides dedicate themselves to continuous professional development and growth to ensure that you receive accurate and recognized theories about Inca and Andean culture. They are fun loving, great sportsmen and well–educated, they hold a degree in at least one of the following: Archaeology, Tourism, Botany, History or Anthropology.
- Horseman and mules:To carry all camping and personal equipment (7 kgs of your personal items such as extra clothes, air mattress and sleeping bag will be carried by our mules).
- Emergency horse: In case of emergency, we have the provisions of an extra horse. This is to ensure that everyone in the group has an equal opportunity to complete the trek.
- Meals: We have yet to receive a complaint about the food or any of our chefs. Your private chef provides delectable meals throughout your trek: 4 hot breakfasts and 1 provided by your hotel. 4 lunches and finally 4 dinners. The guide wakes you every morning with a hot drink, making everyday a good day on the trek. We also include afternoon tea with a small snack before dinner, which is equally impressive. Our chefs take pride in all dishes served. Our chef and horseman work in tandem, so that when you arrive at camp everything is set and ready to go. We also provide a variety of non-alcoholic and alcoholic drinks. Drinks like Maracuya or Chicha Morada, Pisco Sour Cocktail or a good selection of beers and wines.
- Water: We supply bottled water for drinking every day after meal time. Make sure you fill up your canteen or camel bac on the first day.
- Taxes: All prices include the 18% tax charged by the government
Luxury Amenities and Equipment:
- Luxury Accommodation: We book 1 night for you at the magical El Mapi in Augas Calientes.
- Hot Shower Tent with Towels: We supply a hot shower to clean up after every trekking day with complimentary towels.
- Robe and slippers. we provide not 1 but two robes, one silk and the othe cotton, as well as slippers. We want you to feel like you are staying in a luxurious hotel, instead of the great outdoors.
- Private Chef, chef´s assistant and waiter: If you have any dietary restrictions or allergies, please let us know at booking and we will gladly accommodate your needs. You will receive upscaling dining, with a waiter to cater to your needs.
- Dining tent and chairs: We provide a private communal style dining tent, to catch up on the day’s events and build some comradery with your fellow travelers. Eureka Copper Canyon, Kingcamp KC 2808 chairs.
- Utensils: You will dine using Porcelain or ceramic crockery, glassware and unique stone or wood plates.
- Bedroom tent. Included are sleeping bags, Therma rest Mattress, cotton sheets, blankets and pillows Eureka Copper Canyon (maximum 2 pax). Tuck yourself in-between crisp white linen for the best night sleep off the beaten trek.
- Specialized massage therapists: We have massage therapist to accompany you on the Classic Inca Trsiland it is at your disposal every evening when required. This is at no charge to you and another complimentary service from Glamping Peru.
- Portable chemical toilet: This is very important while trekking because the Government toilets can be less then sanitary. We set up our clean waste toilet system a comfortable distance from camp and it has its own private tent.
- Travel bag: This is a small complimentary bag, with travel size shampoo, conditioner and soap.
WHAT IS NOT INCLUDED FOR SALKANTAY TREK?
- Walking Poles: $15 USD per pair per trek (Professional Poles that can be extended)
- Personal tent: $30 USD(Tent is for solo travelers only)
- Huayna Picchu Mountain and Machu Picchu Mountain: $75 USD per person (Please request when you book your Trek)
- Lunch on the last day in Aguas Calientes
- Tips for the guide, cook and horseman of Glamping Peru Treks
This unique Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu can be done on any date that is best for you as long as we have a minimum of 2 hikers!
GROUP PRICE – $2,277 USD per person
**** This price includes the extra pack horse, which will carry your belongings up to 7kgs. We will provide you with a duffel bag to put your things in.
***We provide large Eureka 4 person tents for each 2 trekkers.
*** This price also includes 1 night accomodation in a 4* hotel and 3 nights of Glamping.
Please read the following information carefully. It will help with your questions about our services and the trek to Machu Picchu.
ARRIVAL TO CUSCO
We will greet you at the airport in Cusco and take you to your hotel. Please ensure that you inform us of your flight details at least 14 days prior to your trek’s start. Look for our representative holding a board for Glamping Peru Treks at the arrivals terminal.
THE BRIEFING
Your briefing will take place in the comfort of your hotel, the night before your trek.
CAN I STORE MY LUGGAGE AT YOUR OFFICE?
Of course! During your Salkantay to Machu Picchu Trek your main luggage can be store at our office or at your hotel, whichever is more convenient for you.
HOW TO BOOK THE 5 DAY SALKANTAY TREK
FIRST, to book your Salkantay to Machu Picchu Trek, we need you to fill out our booking form by clicking on BOOK NOW on our homepage or click the link BOOK NOW.
Please be ready with the following information (FROM EACH PARTICIPANT in your group). We cannot purchase an Salkantay to Machu Picchu Trek permits and entrance tickets without the following information:
- Personal information (your full name, exactly as it appears on your passport):
- Gender
- Passport number
- D.O.B. (dd / mm / yyyy)
- Nationality
SECOND, we require a deposit of $525.00 USD per person in order to purchase your entrance to Machu Picchu and train ticket. You can make your deposit by clicking on the VISA or PAYPAL symbols on the top of our home page, or you can click on the VISAor PAYPAL symbols on our booking page.
WHAT ABOUT THE REMAINING BALANCE?
To avoid the excessive credit card fees in Peru, you can pay in cash at our office (we accept US dollars or Peruvian soles) in Cusco. We have many ATMs within the historical center to withdraw money. You can also pay by VISA or PAYPAL online but there is a 5.5% service charge, charged by VISA and PAYPAL. To pay your balance through PAYPAL, you need to log into your PAYPAL account and use our email address glampingperutreks@gmail.com to complete the payment.
HOW DO I QUALIFY FOR THE STUDENT DISCOUNT?
- According to Peruvian Law, you must be under 18 years of age at the time of your trek, tour, or visit to Machu Picchu (students 18 & above need ISIC cards). For example: if you book a trek at the age of 17 but you turn 18 before you do your trek, you do not qualify for a student discount.
- All students from 12 to 17 years, the discount is $40 USD.
- For children from the age of 2 to 12, the discount is $60 USD.
- For children from the age of 0 to 2 are free.
- All students must provide a copy of their passport at the time of their booking to get the student discount.
- Send us a copy at glampingperutreks@gmail.com
MAY I CHANGE THE DEPARTURE DATE AFTER THE TICKETS HAVE BEEN BOUGHT?
We may be able to change dates for a fee with alternative treks depending on what tickets we have already purchased. Please contact the office as soon as possible if you need to change your date.
*** If you cancel your Salkantay to Machu Picchu Trek, the deposit is non-refundable!
DO I NEED MY ORIGINAL PASSPORT ON THE 5 DAY SALKANTAY TREK??
Yes! You have to bring your original passport as it is very important, in order, to gain entry onto trains, Machu Picchu and other sites. You must bring the same passport that you used to book with us from the start.
In case, you are renewing your passport or changing your name, go ahead and send us your old passport information to secure your permit and we can change it when you get your new passport or have updated your name for a fee of $25 USD per person. We must have a copy of your old and new passport to make the change.
If you do not wish to pay this fee, you will need to bring both your old and new passports to Peru. You can enter Peru with your new passport but you will need to show both old and new passports to enter Machu Picchu and other sites. If you do not have both, you will not be allowed to enter into these amazing sites.
WHAT IS THE WEATHER LIKE ON THE 5 DAY SALKANTAY TREK?
The weather is very unpredictable and it’s difficult to foresee. We recommend to always dress in layers as it makes it easier to adjust to the different climates.
WHAT ABOUT ALTITUDE SICKNESS ON THE 5 DAY SALKANTAY TREK?
In general, if you exercise regularly and spend a couple of days in Cusco or the Sacred Valley, you will be able to acclimate normally. It usually takes most people between 1 to 2 days.
We recommend the following remedies for altitude sickness: WATER, COCA TEA and OXYGEN (when needed). Our guides are trained to treat you for altitude sickness. For more detailed information on altitude sickness click this link: Altitude Sickness.
HOW MANY PEOPLE ARE THERE PER GROUP?
The maximum group size is 8 people. Our groups are between 2-6 people. Glamping Treks Peru specializes in SMALL, PRIVATE groups and provide a personalized service.
HIKING THE 5 DAY SALKANTAY TREK
The evening before you start your trek, you will be given a SMALL DUFFEL BAG to pack your clothes and personal items for the next four days. Your weight allowance is up to 7kg/14lbs. This includes 2kg for your sleeping bag and 1kg for your air mattress. Your team of pack horses will carry your duffel bag for you, together with the food and camping gear. It’s important to be aware that you will not have access to your items in the duffel bag until the end of each day, as the pack horses will always be ahead of the group. During the trek, you need a day backpack just big enough to carry your personal belongings such as a warm jacket, a rain jacket, your camera, sunscreen, snacks, water, etc. A 25 to 30L backpack is sufficient.
IS THE TREK DIFFICULT, DO I NEED TO BE FIT?
The Salkantay Trek is fairly difficult and you should be well prepared and healthy prior to starting it. You have to be moderately fit and exercise regularly. In preparation: try walking 15kms/9 miles a day or go to a fitness club throughout the months leading up to the trek. It is also important to be well acclimated to the altitude. Try to spend at least 2 or 3 days in Cusco (3,350m/11,047ft) prior to starting the trek. Always consult your doctor prior to international travel.
WHAT DOES THE TRAIL LOOK LIKE DURING PEAK SEASON?
Our Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu trek is a unique product and its location is pretty remote even during peak season, we will only occasionally encounter another group.
ARE THERE TOILETS ON THE SALKANTAY TO MACHU PICCHU TREK?
Our clients are always appreciative of the privacy and cleanliness of our toilet facilities! As Glamping Peru Treks we have built our own permanent flush toilets in both Cancha Cancha and Kiswarani. Also, you will have portable bathroom facilities, with an individual tent and a “camping toilet with a seat.” We set up our toilets a comfortable distance from our campsite. At night, if you need to use the toilet, it is readily accessible and clean.
WHAT HAPPENS IF I AM UNABLE TO FINISH THE SALKANTAY TREK?
In the unlikely scenario that you are unable to finish the trek due to a health issue, Glamping Peru Treks will assist you to the nearest town for help with transportation. We always carry oxygen on the trek for any respiratory problems. In extreme cases, we can arrange a helicopter pick up at your own expense. (Travel insurance is required and recommended). There are no refunds in the unlikely situation that you are unable to finish the trek.
Generally, those who have to be assisted off the trail are taken to Ollantaytambo. If they recover quickly then they can continue the journey to Aguas Calientes and visit Machu Picchu, according to the original plan. (any extra costs are incurred by trekker)
WILL WE GET DROPPED OFF AT OUR HOTEL AFTER THE SALKANTAY TREK?
Absolutely!! Hotel pick ups and drop offs are included in all of our packages! If you have booked your hotel in the Sacred Valley, we will drop you off there and vice versa.
AT WHAT TIME DOES THE TRAIN DEPART?
It will depend on the train time availability (during high season our first time preference could be sold out) but the idea is to give you as much time as possible at Machu Picchu and also to enjoy the amazing views on the way back to Cusco on the train. Therefore, we usually book the train at 4:43pm. With this train schedule, you will have more than 4 hours to enjoy Machu Picchu
TIPPING
If you’re happy with the services provided, a tip – though not compulsory – the staff do appreciate it. While it may not be customary in your country, it’s of great significance for the people who will take care of you during the tour. It inspires excellent service and is an entrenched feature of the tourism industry across many Glamping Peru Treks destinations. Of course, you are free to tip what you feel is appropriate, depending on your perception on the quality of service and the length of your tour. Remember, a tip is not compulsory and should only be given when you receive excellent service
ARE WE SUSTAINABLE?
Yes, we are a local sustainable & responsible tourism operator that incorporates universal principles of tourism: protect the environment and benefit the local communities by respecting their culture and religion. With this in mind, we have trained all our staff to know, understand and respect the local places and its people.
WHAT SHOULD YOU TAKE WITH YOU ON THE SALKANTAY TREK?
- Original Passport (it has to be the same as the one used when booking your trek)
- Valid University card (if you booked as a student)
- Good daypack (the smaller, the better)
- Water storage: 2-3L (We encourage Camelbaks).
- Comfortable hiking boots with ankle support
- Sleeping bag (can be rented from GPT)
- Headlamp: essential
- Toilet paper
WHAT TO PACK IN YOUR DUFFEL BAG FOR THE SALKANTAY TREK
As a Professional Direct Local Tour operator, we provide you with a duffel bag at your briefing and INCLUDE an extra porter. Who will carry up to 7 kgs/14 lbs including your 2kg sleeping bag, 1kg air mattress and extra clothing.
- 2 t-shirts
- 2 hiking pants
- 4 sets of undergarments
- 3 sets of hiking socks
- Bathing suit for the hot springs
- Fleece/ Thermals
- Warm clothes, down jacket — 2nd campsite temp around 3º C
- Waterproof gloves (even if they are ski gloves, take them)
- Comfortable shoes for camp
- Quick dry towel. We provide small ones, you might prefer something larger
- Small bottle of soap (shower provided)
- Battery Chargers for your electronics- there are no places to charge them along the trail
- Large plastic bags will be provided at the office
- Sleeping bag: It has to be at least -15ºC. This can be rented from us
TOILETRIES
- Face moisturizer
- Hand sanitizer
- Wet wipes
- Toothbrush and toothpaste
- Personal medications
- First aid kit: band aids, moleskin, etc
WHAT TO PUT IN YOUR BACKPACK FOR THE SALKANTAY TREK
We highly recommend a small backpack 30 to 40L for hiking in the day. A big backpack will not be allowed into Machu Picchu. The remainder of your belongings will be in your duffel bag at camp.
- Water: Please supply your own water until the first lunch. Then, we will provide you with cold boiled water at every meal time. Please bring your canteens.
- Sun hat
- Sunscreen
- Headlamp: essential
- Wool hat
- Rain gear
- Fleece
- Snacks like chocolate bars, cereal bars or any dry fruits
- Rain plastic poncho
- Gloves
- Camera
- Hand sanitizer
- Toilet paper and small plastic bag for waste
- Extra money for souvenirs, extra drinks & tips
Have a Question About the Machu Picchu Inca Trail Hike?
Talk With The Experts
WHY GLAMPING PERU TREKS
Small Groups
In an effort to provide a more personalized service, we at Glamping Peru Treks have a policy that our groups will not exceed 8 people.
Private Guide, Car & Driver
You always have private driver & private car flexible upon your travel schedules. Especially, in your Private Tour.
100% Personalized Itinerary
Hassle-free and uniquely personalized! You'll get a completely flexible trip plan tailored to your individual interests, wishes and budget.
Handpicked Hotels & Meals
Whether you are looking for a romantic resort or a boutique hotel, authentic cuisine or street food style; Tour Experts'll create the lifetime journey around your needs .
Camping Equipment
Our camping equipment is top of the line being replaced when needed. Our camping equipment is available for rent as well.
Environmental Sensitivit
As one of the few tour operators that dedicated itself to social responsibility. We are always looking for innovative ways of caring for our natural surroundings.
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