Salkantay 5-Day Trek to Machu Picchu: A Journey with Ritisuyo
The Salkantay trek is a one-of-a-kind adventure that climaxes at the Salkantay pass, 4600 meters above sea level, and eventually leads to the magnificent Machu Picchu citadel. This journey unfolds like a story, with changing landscapes from arid terrains to lush green expanses.
The ultimate destination, Machu Picchu, South America’s most important archaeological site, awaits at the end of this extraordinary journey. Join us as we walk you through the intricacies of this extraordinary experience.
Day 1: The Early Bird Gets The Worm
Starting at the early hour of 4:30 a.m., the adventure begins with a bus ride that takes you from your accommodation to Mollepata. After a two-hour drive and a pitstop for breakfast, the trek begins at Challacancha.
It takes about four hours to reach Soraypampa at an altitude of 3,900 meters above sea level. After a night in the “Cristal Domes,” we take a three-hour round-trip from the Sky Domes to visit the glacial Humantay lake, located at 4200 m.a.s.l.
Once back at the Cristal Domes, we sit down to enjoy a hearty meal and converse about today’s adventures. Not long after that, we slip away into the night and rest up to conquer tomorrow’s trekking challenges.
Day 2: Conquering Heights and Descending Glory
Day two begins with a 6:00 a.m. breakfast, laying the groundwork for the most difficult leg of the Salkantay trek. The 6-kilometer ascent to the highest point at 4,600 meters above sea level offers views of the majestic Salkantay mountain.
After a 30-minute break with time to rest and enjoy the views at the Salkantay pass, we continue down to Chaullay, stopping midway for lunch at Huayracmachay. A three-hour downhill hike leads to the Chaullay (2,900 m.a.s.l.) campsite, a spot for us to settle down for the night.
Day 3: Valley Descents and Coffee Delights
We start our journey to “La Playa” at 6:00 a.m. on day 3, enjoying the descent through the Santa Teresa valley. Here, we get to view the Santa Teresa River, waterfalls, and lush plantations along the way. After taking a quick lunch break to keep us fueled, we hike to the “Lucmabamba capsules” at 2,400 m.a.s.l.
Here, we get to explore the tropical forest, stop by an organic coffee farm, and, if time allows, relax in Santa Teresa’s hot springs (at additional cost). End the day with some shut-eye in the Lucmabamba capsule.
Day 4: Inca Trails and Llactapata’s Majesty
At 06:00 a.m., we begin the ascent to Llactapata, an Inca site that offers a glimpse of Machu Picchu. After a two-hour downhill hike, we proceed to the Hidroelectricas train station for lunch. Once here, each individual is granted two choices, you can take the train to Aguas Calientes, or you can walk there, which takes roughly three hours.
Day 5: Machu Picchu Unveiled
The pinnacle arrives with an early start, ensuring a serene visit to Machu Picchu. Embark on a 2-hour guided tour, exploring temples, terraces, and the sundial. Marvel at Inca engineering prowess before having the option to climb Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain (pre-booking recommended).
On each tour, we spend three hours in this magical city before descending to Aguas Calientes for the train ride back to Ollantaytambo. From here, a minivan awaits you to return to Plaza San Francisco in Cusco.
Join The Adventure With Ritisuyo
As the Salkantay trek concludes, the memories forged will linger, making your heart soar for weeks and years to come. Join the adventure with Ritisuyo and let the spirit of this extraordinary journey stay alive within you.
Ready to plan your unforgettable adventure along the Salkantay trek? Visit our website at https://ritisuyo.com to get started. Don’t miss out on this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to explore the wonders of Machu Picchu with Ritisuyo!
