Frequently Asked Questions New Salkantay Trek + Machu Picchu By Car 4 Days

HOW TO GET TO SALKANTAY?

To reach Salkantay, you must first arrive in Cusco city, where you’ll need an experienced guide to lead you through the adventure trails of the Salkantay trek route.

Buses from Cusco to Mollepata depart very early and pass through Limatambo. We suggest visiting the Tarahuasi fortress along the way. From the road, you can observe the Apurímac River and part of its impressive canyon. Keep in mind that the area is cold and reaches altitudes close to 5,000 meters above sea level. At 2,803 meters above sea level, Mollepata allows for gradual ascent toward Salkantay. Along the way, you’ll observe herds of Andean camelids. After climbing a high pass, you’ll enjoy an impressive pyramidal view of the Salkantay snow-capped peak. The journey lasts 5 days, culminating on the final day at the Inca Citadel of Machu Picchu, the Wonder of the Modern World.

WHERE IS SALKANTAY MOUNTAIN LOCATED?

Salkantay or Sallqantay (in Quechua) is the highest peak in the Vilcabamba mountain range. It’s located in the Cusco Region, approximately 60 km northwest of Cusco city. Salkantay’s proximity to Machu Picchu makes trekking around it an excellent alternative to the Classic Inca Trail.

WHAT SHOULD I PACK FOR THE SALKANTAY TREK?

Before starting your Machu Picchu tour via the sacred Salkantay mountain, you need essential accessories for the journey. Most importantly, a backpack that will be your companion during the five days of the tour. Here’s a detailed list of what your backpack should contain:

HOW CAN I MAKE A SALKANTAY TREK RESERVATION?

Request general information from a tour operator – contact us as we’re adventure specialists and tour operators for all four Inca trails leading to Machu Picchu. We offer security and payment guarantees through our secure online platform on our website.

CAN I RENT AN EXTRA HORSE ON SALKANTAY?

You can rent a saddle horse, typically used on the second day to help you navigate the most challenging pass, avoiding fatigue before reaching Machu Picchu. The cost varies between $70-100 for three days. Consult with muleteers and your guide if you’re on a tour. Horses are always accompanied by a muleteer to prevent accidents during the journey – keep these aspects in mind.

CAN I DO SALKANTAY WITHOUT A GUIDE?

Yes, you can do it independently since it’s not yet regulated by the Peruvian government. If you’re motivated to take on this adventure without a guide, respect trail usage regulations to preserve the environment and prevent government restrictions like those on the Classic Trail. For independent travel, research bus departure times from Arcopata Avenue – the minimum cost is 12 soles for combis and public buses. Upon reaching Mollepata, you can hire a muleteer to carry your backpacks. Note that there are no restaurants from the first campsite onward, so bring food for four days.

WHAT’S THE COST OF MACHU PICCHU ENTRANCE VIA SALKANTAY?

Like the Inca Trail, Machu Picchu entrance costs 200 soles ($70) for adults, with student discounts available only with valid ISIC cards for those up to 24 years old. Request an authorized operator to process your student entrance, and when booking a package, ask for student discounts by sending updated student ID cards.

HOW MUCH DOES A PRIVATE SALKANTAY TOUR COST?

A private tour for two people averages $600 per person, providing personalized attention with excellent food, personal guides, and trained muleteers and cooks. This doesn’t mean luxury service since trekking is an adventure tour – choose a tour operator that suits your preferences. Private tours are more comfortable, and some operators organize via the Llaqtapata Original Inca Trail route – this would be the advantage of a private tour. Not all operators offer this alternative since many prefer celebrations at basic Santa Teresa camps. What matters most is that you enjoy this world wonder that is Machu Picchu.

Travel Guide

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Recommendations

WE RECOMMEND THE FOLLOWING ESSENTIAL ITEMS: Complete Salkantay Trek Packing List:

• Valid passport (original required)
• Day backpack for water, snacks, camera, sunscreen, valuables, jacket, etc.
• Sleeping bag rated to at least -5°C. Rental available for $10 for the entire trek if needed.
• Trekking poles – Highly recommended for knee/ankle issues or experienced hikers. Rental available for $10 per pair.
• Warm wool hat or beanie
• Wide-brimmed sun hat
• Neck scarf or buff
• Insulated gloves
• 3-4 t-shirts (long-sleeve preferred)
• Layering system (sweater, fleece jacket)
• 2-3 pairs of hiking pants (leggings acceptable as base layer)
• Sturdy hiking boots (broken in)
• 2-3 pairs of merino wool socks
• Insulated jacket for cold weather
• Complete rain gear (pants and jacket) – Essential, especially during wet season. Rain poncho available for purchase if needed.
• Quick-dry towel
• Comfortable shorts
• UV-protection sunglasses
• Bright headlamp with extra batteries
• Reusable water bottle
• Personal toiletries and toothbrush
• Biodegradable toilet paper
• High-SPF sunscreen
• Effective insect repellent
• Camp sandals or flip-flops
• Swimwear for hot springs
• Thermal underwear (optional but useful for the first night at 4,000m altitude)
• Energy snacks: chocolate, granola bars, nuts, dried fruit, energy bars, etc.
• Extra cash in Peruvian soles

We provide a duffel bag for 7 kilos of gear transported by horses. You’ll receive your duffel bag the evening before departure during the mandatory briefing session.

MANDATORY DOCUMENTS TO CARRY

• Original passport (copies not accepted)
• If booking with student discount, bring physical student ID card to verify student status at Machu Picchu checkpoint

Notes

STUDENT PRICE: If you like to apply for the student price you need to comply with the next requirements Peruvian regulation for students:

• If you are a student, you need to send us a copy or picture of both side of your STUDENT CARD also a picture or foto of your PASSPORT in order to verify, to get discount The student card must be an original student ID gives from the university in PVC material and it must have the next requirements printed on it: University information, personal student information, student picture, and expiration date valid only for one year, it year must coincide with the year that student visit Machu Picchu, the discount until 25 years old. ISIC cards are not valid for the discount.

Accomodation

Experience comfortable accommodations throughout your Salkantay adventure, featuring our innovative Mountain Sky Huts on night one – specially designed eco-friendly shelters that offer protection from the elements while maintaining panoramic mountain views. These unique huts include comfortable bedding, weather-resistant walls, and glass doors that showcase the stunning Andean landscape. For nights two and three, enjoy well-appointed hotel accommodations in Aguas Calientes, complete with private bathrooms, hot showers, and cozy beds to recharge before your Machu Picchu exploration. All accommodations are carefully selected to provide comfort, safety, and authentic Peruvian hospitality.

Accomodation

Our carefully selected camping sites offer the perfect blend of comfort and adventure in Peru’s most spectacular mountain settings. Each location provides stunning panoramic views of the Andean landscape while maintaining easy access to essential facilities. Our exclusive Mountain Sky Huts feature weather-resistant construction, comfortable sleeping arrangements, and strategic positioning to maximize your connection with nature. These thoughtfully designed campsites ensure a restful night’s sleep while immersing you in the breathtaking beauty of the Salkantay region, creating unforgettable memories under the star-filled Andean sky.