SALKANTAY TREK TO MACHU PICCHU 5 Days

Introduction

The Salkantay route takes you through some of Peru’s most diverse landscapes over five days. You tour start in Cusco; your hike is a 54 kilometers through mountain passes, cloud forests, and finally reach Machu Picchu. This trek avoids the crowds of the classic Inca Trail while offering more dramatic scenery changes. The highest point sits at 4,630 meters at Salkantay Pass, where you’re basically walking between two massive peaks. Most trekkers find the second day the toughest – you gain serious altitude before breakfast and then descend for hours into warmer valleys.

Weather changes fast on this route. Morning temperatures near the pass drop below freezing, but by day three you’re sweating in subtropical heat around Santa Teresa.

The trek doesn’t require permits months in advance like the Inca Trail, though you still need to book your Machu Picchu entrance early. Local communities along the route have adapted to tourism over the past decade. You’ll see how families in Soraypampa now run small lodges and camps. The trail infrastructure keeps improving each year with better campsites and basic facilities. Some sections got rerouted after heavy rains in 2020, making certain parts actually easier than before.

Trip Details

Duration: 5 Days / 4 Nights
Activities: Mountain hiking, Andean culture encounters, high-altitude adventure
Average Group Size: Up to 16 trekkers
Difficulty: Moderate to challenging depending on weather
Accommodation: Mountain camping (3 nights), basic hotel (1 night)
Tour Language: English and Spanish guides available
Hiking Distance: 54 km / 34 miles total
Starts/Ends: Cusco hotel pickup / Cusco return
Minimum Altitude: 2,040m / 6,693 feet (Aguas Calientes)
Maximum Altitude: 4,630m / 15,190 feet (Salkantay Pass)
Age Recommended: Minimum 12 years old
Acclimatization Necessary: Yes, absolutely – 3 days in Cusco recommended
Entrance Tickets: Machu Picchu tickets must be bought weeks in advance

Trip Summary

Day 1: Cusco pickup around 5am. Drive three hours to Mollepata for breakfast. Continue to Soraypampa (3,900m) where the real hiking starts. Four-hour trek to Humantay Lake with its turquoise water. Some people skip this side trip if feeling altitude. Return to Sorayampa camp for dinner. Total walking approximately 12km.
Day 2: Wake at 4am for the hardest day. Climb steadily for three hours to Salkantay Pass. Weather determines visibility – sometimes you see nothing but white. Descent takes four hours to Huayracpampa. Another two hours to Chaullay camp (2,900m). Legs feel like jelly by evening. Approximately 22km covered.
Day 3: Later start at 6am through the cloud forest. The trail gets muddy and humid. Reach Lucmabamba after five hours where local families grow coffee. Optional hot springs at Santa Teresa in afternoon (10 soles entry). Some groups camp at Santa Teresa instead. Around 16km hiking.
Day 4: Choice between hiking or zipline (extra cost). Walking route follows the Urubamba River for three hours to Hidroelectrica. Lunch there then final three hours along train tracks to Aguas Calientes. Check into basic hotel. Buy any last-minute supplies for tomorrow. Only 16km but feels longer on tired legs.
Day 5: Bus at 5:30am to Machu Picchu entrance. Two-hour guided tour of main sectors. Free time until noon to explore or climb Huayna Picchu if you got permits. Afternoon train to Ollantaytambo then bus to Cusco. Arrival around 8pm usually.

Why you'll love this tour

Salkantay Mountain dominates the entire first half – This sacred peak reaches 6,271 meters and locals still perform ceremonies here. The mountain stays visible for two full days of hiking, changing appearance as you circle around its base. You get closest at the pass where avalanches thunder down regularly.
The climate zones shift dramatically each day – You walk from alpine tundra into cloud forest within 48 hours. Day one feels like hiking in Colorado, day three more like trekking through Costa Rica. The vegetation changes completely – from sparse grasses to jungle vines hanging over the trail.
Fewer crowds compared to the classic trail – Maybe 200 people daily versus thousands on the Inca Trail during high season. You actually get quiet moments at viewpoints. The campsites spread out more so you’re not packed together with other groups at night.
Local families run most services along the route – The horsemen from Mollepata village have worked these trails for generations. Camp cooks come from nearby communities and know exactly where to find fresh ingredients. You’re directly supporting these mountain communities rather than big tour companies.
The approach to Machu Picchu feels more earned – After days of hard hiking, you arrive at Aguas Calientes exhausted but satisfied. That final morning bus ride up to the ruins hits different when your legs are sore from real trekking. The view from Huayna Picchu becomes your victory photo.

Itinerary

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DAY 1 CUSCO - MOLLEPATA - CHALLACANCHA- SORAYPAMPA

We will begin our trek, early in the morning, with your hotel pick-up and we will drive for approximately 2 to 3 hours to the village of Mollepata, where we will make a brief stop to use the bathrooms and make some last-minute purchases. We will then head off to the trailhead at the bottom of the Salkantay mountain, to begin our trek. We should begin our hike at around 9:30 am. and we will walk for 9 km to the village of Soraypampa, where we will have lunch and also our campsite for the evening. We will have time for a short rest before we hike to Humantay Lake, taking approximately 3 hours. This is a challenging trek as we will be hiking at an elevation of 4200m, however the views of this glacial lake and the surrounding ice-peak will make it all worth the while. Tonight, will be the coldest night of the trek so make sure your layer up for the cold night ahead!

DAY 2 SORAYPAMPA - SALKANTAY PASS - CHAULLAY

Today we will wake up early for what will probably be the most difficult days´ hiking on your Salkantay trek. After an early breakfast, we will trek to the Salkantay Pass, at 4650 m elevation, which will take approximately 3 hours. After 2 more hours, we will arrive at Huayracmachay where we will have our lunch and a well-earned rest. After lunch, we will hike for another 3 hours, descending into warmer climates to Chaullay, at an elevation of 2900m, which will be our campsite for the evening.

DAY 3 CHAULLAY - LA PLAYA – SANTA TERESA

After breakfast we will hike from Chaullay to La Playa, setting out at 6:00 am. We can appreciate warmer weather as we drop into the cloud forest for approximately 6 hours, enjoy the green vegetation around. On arrival at La Playa, we will have lunch and then continue our hike to the small town of Santa Teresa, the home of the Cocalmayo Hot Springs.

DAY 4 SANTA TERESA –LLACTAPATA- AGUAS CALIENTES

We will start with an early breakfast, around 5:30 am, before taking local transportation for 45 minutes to Lucmabamba. From here, we will hike the 3-hour uphill trail along the original Inca trail until we arrive in the Inca ruins of Llactapata. You will have plenty of time in Llactapata to enjoy the views of Machu Picchu and Huayna Picchu Mountain, and if the weather is good, you’ll get a final glimpse of the Salkantay Mountain. Afterward, we’ll hike downhill for 2 hours, to the Hydroelectric plant for a delicious lunch and well-earned rest. The final part of the hike is a 3-hour hike along the train tracks to Aguas Calientes. Once you arrive in the small town, and the gateway to Machu Picchu, we will take you to your hotel where you can shower and rest before our final dinner at 7:00 pm in a local restaurant.

DAY 5 AGUAS CALIENTES – CUSCO

We will leave the hotel at 6 am, so that you can hike up to the magnificent archaeological site of Machu Picchu or take the bus. We will enjoy a guided tour of the mind-blowing Machu Picchu, to visit the principal sights if this ancient Inca citadel, after which you will have the time to wander round the site before we return to Aguas Calientes, to take our train to Ollantaytambo. If you wish to climb Huayna Picchu Mountain or the Machu Picchu Mountain, you should reserve this option well in advance, as there are limited permits, which should be reserved at the time of booking. On arrival to Ollantaytambo, our private car will be waiting to take us back to Cusco.

Reviews

5.0 4.9 - 462 TripAdvisor Reviews

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Oswaldo Luiz C

5.0

A Agencia primou pela qualidade. Tanto nas programações, excelentes guias, qualidade dos transportes, horários e pontualidade.

Ruan N

5.0

A agência Yacana foi perfeita! Organizou nossos passeios no Peru da melhor forma possível, nos deu todo suporte que precisamos, independentemente do horário, nos deu dicas valiosas para os passeios, sugestões, além do acompanhamento de tudo ao longo dos dias....

Sunshine60374635165

5.0

Experiência indescritível! Fomos em 2 casais para o Peru e contratamos absolutamente todos os passeios com a Yacana. Vale Sagrado, Machu Picchu, 7 lagunas, montanha colorida, city tour cusco e islas ballestas e oasis em Lima. Segurança impecável, pontualidade perfeita...

Diego R

5.0

Experiência incrível, passeios todos bem feitos com a Yacana. Guias muitos preparados e prestativos, em especial a Rosa. Recomendo!

Daniele P

5.0

A agência tem um excelente atendimento, faz adaptações e oferece os melhores passeios, além de todo o pós venda que captura os feedbacks de forma atenta e cuidadosa. Recomendo para todos que posso os serviços da Yacana.

Flávia F

5.0

Tivemos ótima experiência com nossos tour! Equipe pontual, muito organizada, guias bem preparados e simpáticos . Empresa de confiança!

Tamara F

5.0

Tivemos uma experiencia maravilhosa com o guia Robert e motorista Hernan no passeio a Wanacancha + Pisac! O Robert é uma simpatia e cheio de cultura - um professor!!! Recomendamos muito!!

Miliani Greco

5.0

Desde o início do atendimento até a execução do que contratamos, foram extremamente atenciosos e pontuais. Não precisávamos nos preocupar com nada, apenas em curtir o Peru e suas belezas.

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Included

Pre-trek briefing.
Hotel pick-up in the morning and transfer in private car to Challacancha the trailhead.
Personal Tent: 2 people sharing a 4-person tent for extra comfort and safe storage of your backpacks.
Professional trekking guide (English speaking) with 2 guides for groups of more than 8 people.
Chef and cooking equipment.
Accommodation in Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu Pueblo).
Mules to carry tents, cooking equipment and food for 4 days.
1 duffle bag to carry a maximum of 6 kilos per person. (Including Sleeping Bag) day 1 – 2 this Will be carried by the horses.
Food (mentioned meals) daily snacks and tea service, except for the final day). Vegetarian menus or any special menus available at no extra cost.
A recycled cloth bag to avoid use of plastic on the trek and to help protect the environment
Biodegradable soap.
Others: Hot water each day in the morning and evening to wash / and boiled water to fill your water bottle for the days trekking. (Please ask in advance to boil enough water.
Emergency first aid kit with an oxygen tank.

Entrance to Machu Picchu.

Train ticket Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo (Expedition Train).
Transfer Ollantaytambo train station to your Cusco hotel.

Not Included

Breakfast on the first day.
Lunch on the final day after the guided tour of Machu Picchu
Entrance to the hot springs in Cocalmayo and Aguas Calientes.
Extra night in Aguas Calientes (we can help you arrange this if you wish).
Alcoholic drinks.
Sleeping bag.
Tips/ Gratuities.
Extra Services.
Entrance to Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain (subject to availability).

What to Bring

Sleeping bag rated to -10°C – Rental bags available but personal ones are warmer. The second night gets coldest near the pass. Some companies provide bags but check their temperature rating first. Silk liners add extra warmth and hygiene.
Waterproof hiking boots with ankle support – The descent from Salkantay Pass destroys ankles without proper support. Break them in completely before arriving. Bring camp shoes or sandals for evenings because your feet will want freedom.
Rain gear including pack cover – Afternoon showers happen even in dry season. Ponchos work but separate jacket and pants give better mobility. Everything needs waterproofing – phones, cameras, spare clothes. Dry bags save electronics when rivers overflow onto trails.
Trekking poles save your knees – The downhill sections last hours on day two. Poles prevent falls on loose gravel near the pass. Collapsible ones fit in daypacks for Machu Picchu day. Wooden walking sticks sold in Mollepata work but aren’t adjustable.
Headlamp with extra batteries – Camp toilets have no lights. Early morning packing happens in darkness. Red light mode preserves night vision and doesn’t wake tent neighbors. Phone flashlights drain battery needed for photos.
Water purification tablets or filter – Bottled water costs more at each camp. Streams look clean but giardia exists. Boiled water provided at meals but tastes flat. Electrolyte powder masks the iodine taste from tablets.
Thermal layers for varying temperatures – Mornings start below freezing then afternoon sun makes you strip layers. Merino wool doesn’t smell after multiple days. Cotton kills in cold weather – everything should be synthetic or wool.
Sun protection for high altitude – UV radiation increases 10% every 1000 meters. Lips burn fastest so bring good balm. Sunglasses prevent snow blindness near the pass. Wide-brim hats work better than baseball caps.
Personal medications including altitude pills – Pharmacies in Aguas Calientes charge triple Cusco prices. Ibuprofen helps with altitude headaches. Imodium saves dignity if dinner doesn’t agree with you. Coca leaves help some people but taste pretty awful.
Cash in small bills – ATMs don’t exist between Mollepata and Aguas Calientes. Tips for porters and cooks expected. Hot showers, drinks, and snacks at camps cost extra. Bathroom fees at some stops require exact change.

Is this trip right for you?

Your fitness level needs to handle consecutive hiking days – Day two involves seven hours of walking with a 600-meter climb before lunch. Your knees take a beating on the long descent afterwards. Previous multi-day hiking experience helps but isn’t mandatory if you train beforehand.
Altitude affects everyone differently regardless of fitness – Some marathon runners struggle while couch potatoes feel fine. Spending three days minimum in Cusco before starting reduces problems significantly. Diamox helps but makes you pee constantly at night which gets annoying in cold weather.
Basic camping conditions for three nights – Tents on rocky ground, shared dining tents, and squat toilets at most sites. Hot showers exist at some camps for extra payment. The third night at Santa Teresa has better facilities with actual beds if you upgrade.
Early morning starts become routine – Wake up calls at 4:30am happen most days. You need headlamps for packing in darkness. The sunrise views make it worthwhile but night owls definitely struggle with this schedule.
Weather unpredictability requires mental flexibility – Rain in dry season, unexpected cold snaps, or blazing sun when forecasts predicted clouds. Your gear needs to handle everything. Groups sometimes modify routes based on conditions, especially during February when trails get sketchy.

Pricing

Additional Information.

During the trip, you can store your main luggage in our office or in your hotel at no extra cost.
If you are vegetarian, or have special dietary requirements, please let us know at the time of booking.
Original Passport
The original valid ISIC card needs to be produced if you are a student and have applied for a student discount.
Travel Insurance.
Spare money in small denominations in Nuevos Soles.
A day pack.
Rain clothing (waterproof jacket and trousers are recommended).
We recommend comfortable, waterproof walking shoes.
Sandals (to let your feet rest at the campsite).
Warm clothing, a fleece and thermal under garments for the cold weather at the campsites.
Sombrero o gorra (para protegerte del sol, la lluvia y el frío).
Sun block /protection.

Insect Repellent: the minimum recommended is 20% de DEET (be aware that there have been reported cases of malaria on this trip.

Camera and charger / batteries (be aware that batteries run down much quicker in cold weather and at altitude).
Torch/ flash light + batteries.
A small hand towel.
Bathing Sui (for the hot springs in Aguas Calientes)
Snacks (biscuits, energy bars, chocolate, dried fruit, etc.).

Bear in mind that we offer a daily snack allowance as well as an extensive breakfast lunch and dinner. The recommendation to take snacks is only for those who have specific snack preferences that may not be included in the food we provide.

Bottled water for the first morning and a water bottle/ container to refill along the route.

RENTALS AND UPGRADES:

Vistadome Train (One Way) – US$55.00
Entrance to Huayna Picchu o Machu Picchu Mountain (subject to availability) – US$70.00
Walking Sticks – US$20.00
Sleeping bag – US$20.00
Luxury camping package (Sleeping bag + pillows and pillow cases) – US$30.00 pp.
Private tent – US$30.00

DETAILS:

Special Sleeping bags for all temperatures.
If you want an individual tent, please let us know at the time of reservation.

Note: (You need an ISIC card to receive a student discount) Price per person.

We use 3 * hotels in Aguas Calientes, if you do not wish to share a room (twin or triple room), ask for a single supplement at the time of booking.
If you are a lover of the countryside and nature then the Vistadome train is an excellent option. The panoramic Windows in the roof of the train allow you to connect to the outside in a unique way.
Duration: 5 days/ 4 nights.

IMPORTANT:

It is an essential requisite to give us a copy of your passport at the time of booking, to confirm the services of your trek. If you do not have your Passport, you run the risk of your trek being cancelled.
Our transfer services are programmed depending on the Airlines time Schedule, for this reason you should send us your travel itinerary at the time of booking. It is the responsibility of the passenger to look for the transfer, who will be waiting at the airport with a clearly written sign, with your name. If for any reason, the Passenger does not find the Transfer person or has a problem with hotel bookings or contracted services, you should contact your operator immediately. We will not accept and complaints or offer any refunds if the passenger has not complied with this responsibility.
Excursions could vary depending on your confirmed flight, the weather conditions in the destination, or the confirmed hotel, but will always be delivered in the same category that the Passenger reserved. You may have to pay the difference if there are only superior rooms available.
The hours of check-in and check-out of your hotel are under the reservation conditions of each individual hotels policies. If you arrive at your hotel earlier than the pre-arranged time, there is the possibility that the room may not be ready until the time previously agreed.
The breakfast times in each hotel are dictated by the hotel, which you may take advantage of or not, if you happen to be arriving outside of the stated hours.
It is the passenger’s responsibility to have your passports and migration documents, required by the authorities such as visas, health documents or for children traveling alone, etc. passports should have a minimum validity of 6 months from your date of travel.
Any services not used by the Passenger, will not be refunded under any circumstances.
The established times for entrance and departure from hotels are as follows: Check In 10: 00hrs and Check Out 09: 00hrs.

Updgrades

Extra porter for personal items (USD 90-120) – Carries up to 7kg of your personal gear. Makes the trek significantly easier especially day two. Book in advance as limited porters available. They move faster than you so items aren’t accessible during hiking.
Single tent supplement (USD 60-80) – Avoid sharing with strangers who might snore. More space for spreading out wet gear. Privacy for changing clothes. Some people sleep better alone at altitude.
Sleeping bag rental (USD 20-30) – Four-season bags rated to -15°C usually. Saves luggage space flying to Peru. Quality varies between companies so inspect before leaving Cusco. Includes compression sack for daypack.
Trekking pole rental (USD 15-20 for pair) – Aluminum adjustable poles with straps. Cheaper than buying if you don’t hike regularly. Test the locking mechanisms before starting. Some companies include these free.
Hotel upgrade in Aguas Calientes (USD 40-70) – Standard accommodation pretty basic. Better hotels have hot water guarantee and breakfast included. Location near bus station saves morning walking. Good sleep before Machu Picchu improves experience.
Huayna Picchu entrance (USD 15-25) – Limited to 400 people daily in two time slots. Book months ahead for high season. The climb takes 45 minutes up steep steps. Views show Machu Picchu’s full layout from above.
Train upgrade to Vistadome (USD 30-50) – Panoramic windows and snack service. More comfortable seats than Expedition class. Afternoon trains get better valley views. Books out quickly during peak season.

Travel Guide

Recommendations: Start training two months before if you don’t hike regularly. Stair climbing prepares muscles for constant ups and downs. Cusco altitude hits everyone – even fit people feel breathless climbing hostel stairs initially. Book accommodations in Cusco for returning day since you’ll arrive exhausted around 8pm.

Climate: May through September offers most stable weather though nights get seriously cold. October and November see occasional storms but fewer crowds. December through March brings heavy rain – trails get muddy and clouds obscure mountain views. April serves as transition month with unpredictable conditions.

Best Season: Late May or early September balance good weather with moderate crowds. Avoid June school holidays when Peruvian groups fill campsites. August peak season means higher prices everywhere.

Proper Clothing: Layer system works best – base thermal, insulating middle, waterproof outer. No cotton anything except maybe underwear. Bring enough socks for each day plus emergency pair. Gaiters help in muddy sections after Salkantay Pass.

Physical Preparation: Walk with loaded backpack twice weekly minimum. Include stairs or hills in training routes. Altitude affects breathing more than muscle strength. Yoga helps with balance on uneven terrain. Core exercises prevent back pain from pack weight.

Local Communities: Mountain families remain shy but appreciate basic Spanish attempts. Children sometimes sell fruit or crafts at rest stops. Porters work incredibly hard – tipping expected at farewell dinner. Most speak Quechua as first language. Tourism provides their main income now since farming barely sustains families. Respect their sacred sites and don’t photograph ceremonies without permission.

Tour Suitability: Best for active travelers comfortable with basic conditions. Families with teenagers do fine if everyone’s reasonably fit. Seniors in good shape complete it regularly. Not recommended for anyone with knee or heart problems. Fear of heights becomes issue at certain cliff sections.

Trail Food: Breakfast usually includes porridge, eggs, and coca tea. Lunch boxes contain sandwich, fruit, cookies, and juice. Dinners surprise with their quality – soup, main course, dessert despite basic camp kitchens. Vegetarian options available but tell company in advance. Water boiled for drinking at each meal. Snacks at camps cost double normal prices but sometimes you desperately need chocolate. Local women sell homemade food at Huayracpampa – their cheese empanadas taste amazing after hiking all morning.

Faqs

How difficult is the Salkantay Trek compared to other Peru hikes?

Harder than the classic Inca Trail physically but easier logistically since no permit lottery exists. The altitude gain happens faster which catches people off guard. Rainbow Mountain day trip reaches similar altitude but you return to lower elevation immediately. The Salkantay keeps you high for two days which exhausts most hikers. Choquequirao trek involves more total climbing but spreads it over more days.

What happens if I can’t complete the trek?

Horses available for emergencies on the first two days though riding at altitude feels awful when sick. After Salkantay Pass, vehicle evacuation becomes possible from certain points. Travel insurance should cover evacuation costs which run several hundred dollars. Most companies help arrange transport but you pay directly. Some people take transport from Hidroelectrica if they can’t walk the final day.

Can I do this trek independently without a guide?

Technically possible but complicated. Finding campsites and arranging meals becomes difficult. The route isn’t always obvious especially in fog. Local communities prefer organized groups who contribute to their economy properly. Solo hikers sometimes get turned away from private campsites. Machu Picchu requires advance tickets regardless.

How cold does it really get at night?

Soraypampa camp drops to around -5°C in dry season. Wind makes it feel colder. The second night varies depending on exact camp location but expect freezing temperatures. Water bottles freeze if left outside tents. Most people sleep in every piece of clothing they brought. By Santa Teresa you’re sweating at night instead.

What’s the bathroom situation during the trek?

Squat toilets at established camps with varying cleanliness levels. Bring your own toilet paper always. Hand sanitizer essential since soap rarely exists. During hiking hours, you find bushes like everyone else. Privacy becomes less important after day one. Some camps charge one sol for toilet use.

How reliable is the weather forecast for planning?

Mountain weather changes within hours so forecasts mean little. One side of the pass might have sunshine while the other has snow. Prepare for everything regardless of predictions. Guides judge conditions each morning and might modify routes. February traditionally worst month but climate patterns keep shifting lately.

Is altitude sickness common on this trek?

Most people feel something – headaches, poor sleep, no appetite. Serious problems remain rare if you acclimatize properly in Cusco first. The trek profile helps since you descend after the pass. Diamox works but isn’t magic – you still feel the altitude. Coca tea provides mild relief and cultural experience but don’t expect miracles.

What kind of wildlife might I see?

Condors soar near the pass on clear mornings. Viscachas (rabbit-like creatures) sun themselves on rocks. Hummingbirds appear once you reach cloud forest. Spectacled bears exist but sightings remain extremely rare. Domestic animals more common – llamas, alpacas, dogs at every camp somehow.

How much should I tip the crew?

Porters and cooks pool tips usually. Figure 30-40 soles per trekker for the whole crew. Guide tips separate – maybe 20-30 soles if they did good work. Bring bills to the farewell dinner. Some groups organize this beforehand to avoid awkwardness. Americans tend to tip more than Europeans which creates expectations.

Can I charge electronics during the trek?

Some campsites offer charging for 10-20 soles but outlets limited. Bring power banks instead – 20,000mAh lasts most people five days. Cold drains batteries faster so keep them warm. Airplane mode extends phone life significantly. Santa Teresa has more reliable electricity if you’re desperate.

What’s the food situation for vegetarians or allergies?

Inform the company when booking and remind guides first day. Cooks generally accommodate well with advance notice. Quinoa soup appears frequently. Vegetarian protein options get repetitive – mostly eggs and cheese. Bring your own snacks if you have severe restrictions. Gluten-free proves more challenging in camp conditions.

How crowded is Machu Picchu after the trek?

Arriving via Salkantay means entering with the morning crowds. The site limits visitors now but still feels busy 8am-noon. Afternoon gets quieter if you stay longer. Circuit routes prevent backtracking so plan photo spots carefully. Your guide covers highlights in two hours then you explore alone.

Is travel insurance necessary for this trek?

Absolutely get insurance covering high-altitude trekking up to 5,000 meters. Helicopter evacuation from remote areas costs thousands. Medical facilities between Cusco and Aguas Calientes basically don’t exist. Check if your policy covers trip interruption since weather sometimes prevents completion. Most companies require proof of insurance now.

What about taking kids on the Salkantay Trek?

Twelve years old minimum makes sense – younger kids struggle with consecutive long days. Teenagers who play sports usually handle it fine. The altitude affects kids unpredictably though. Family campsites can be arranged for privacy. Kids often connect better with local children at rest stops than adults do.

How does the zipline option on day 4 work?

Cola de Mono zipline company operates near Santa Teresa. Costs around USD 60-80 extra. Five cables total covering 2,500 meters. Highest cable stretches 150 meters above the valley. Takes about 2 hours including safety briefing. You meet the hiking group at Hidroelectrica for lunch. Book through your trekking company or directly at Santa Teresa.

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