Ultimate Salkantay Trek & Machu Picchu - 5 Days

Frequently asked questions

• What should I know about the altitude on this trek?

  Cusco city is located at 3300 meters above sea level, and some visitors may experience altitude sickness. We advise all hikers to arrive at least two days prior to their trek to acclimatize. Machu Picchu and Aguas Calientes are much lower, around 2000 meters. Tips to help include deep breathing exercises, resting upon arrival, drinking a lot of water, and consuming coca or muña tea. Avoid alcohol and drugs. If considering altitude medication, discuss it with your GP before departure.

• How challenging is the Salkantay Trek, and what fitness level is required?

  The Salkantay Trail is a moderately hard trek involving high altitude and significant ascents and descents. A normal fitness level is required, and while previous trekking experience is not mandatory, it should be part of your training plan. We recommend going for longer walks with ascents and descents, carrying your daypack. Consult your doctor if you have any pre-existing medical conditions.

• Is there a pre-departure briefing for the trek?

  Yes, there is a pre-departure briefing held at the TreXperience office in central Cusco at 6:00 PM the evening before the tour departure. You must bring your passport to this briefing.

• What if I renew my passport before the trip?

  If you plan to renew your passport before travel, it is vital to inform our team immediately, as these details are essential for your permits.

• Are there any specific restrictions or changes for visiting Machu Picchu?

  As of early 2023, it is anticipated that Covid restrictions may still be in place, which could mean the Sun Gate and Inca Bridge are closed at Machu Picchu, and visits to the site will be on a controlled route.

• Will drinking water be provided during the trek?

  Yes, all drinkable water (boiled, filtered, and cooled) will be provided from your first lunch to your last breakfast. You need to supply your own water bottles or camelbak, and we recommend carrying at least 2 liters.

• What is Peru's policy on drugs?

  Peru has extremely strict drug policies and will arrest and heavily fine foreigners for possession and trafficking of illicit drugs. It is strongly advised not to risk it.

• What kind of emergency support is available during the trek?

  All guides are trained in First Aid and High Mountain rescue. In case a guest requires medical attention, our staff can assist. A medical kit and satellite phone are kept with the team at all times. In rare serious emergencies, you will be evacuated to the nearest medical center.

• Is the Machu Picchu permit included, and how far in advance should I book?

  Your Machu Picchu permit is included in the trip cost. Visitor numbers are limited to 2500 people per day, and train tickets, along with tickets for Huayna Picchu and Machu Picchu Mountain, sell out well in advance. We highly recommend booking your trek as far in advance as possible to avoid disappointment.

• Is laundry service available during or after the trek?

  Your hotel in Cusco may offer laundry services after your trek. Please check directly with your accommodation.

• What is the luggage policy during the trek?

  The tour operator provides a personal porter for your belongings, up to a maximum of 7 kg, which must include your sleeping bag and air mattress if you rent them. You will be provided with a duffel bag at the briefing for these items. You only need to carry a small, light daypack for your daily essentials.

• Where can I store my main luggage not needed during the trek?

  You can store your main luggage at your hotel in Cusco. If your hotel does not offer storage, the tour operator is happy to look after it for you and return it at the end of your experience.

• Can I book additional tours or activities around Cusco?

  Yes, you can book a wide selection of short trips before or after your trek, such as a city tour of Cusco, Humantay Lake Tour, Maras Moray, Rainbow Mountain & Red Valley, and Sacred Valley Tour. Please ask our team for availability and pricing.

• What currency is accepted, and should I bring spending money?

  The local currency in Peru is Nuevo Peruvian Soles, but US Dollars are also accepted. You can use cash or credit cards as ATMs are available in Cusco. It is recommended to bring extra cash for tipping staff, paid hot showers, and any personal purchases or meals not included.

• What are the recommendations for tipping the tour staff?

  Tipping is optional and at your discretion, but the team works very hard. General suggestions (from the group as a whole) are between 60 and 80 soles per porter, 120 to 150 soles for each cook, and 160 to 200 soles for the guide.

• How will transportation be handled?

  The tour provides door-to-door service, including pickup from your hotel in Cusco on the morning of Day 1 and a private transfer back to Cusco after the tour. The return journey from Aguas Calientes to Cusco includes a panoramic Vistadome or 360° train ride through the Sacred Valley.

• What is the typical accommodation like during the trek?

  Accommodation includes 3 nights of camping in 4-man Eureka tents (provided for every 2 trekkers, along with pillows and foam air mats) and 1 night in a 3-star hotel in Aguas Calientes.

• Are there any special cultural experiences included?

  Yes, the trek includes a special Pachamanca lunch, which is an ancient stone-oven cooking method, and a tour of local organic coffee farms where you can taste freshly roasted coffee.

• What is the best time of year to do the Salkantay Trek?

  Cusco experiences two seasons: the rainy season from November to March and the dry season from April to October. It's advisable to prepare for all types of weather with layers, a hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, and good rain gear, as weather can be hard to forecast.

• Is Wi-Fi available during the trek?

  Wi-Fi will not be available during the trek. However, you can purchase a SIM card in Cusco if you wish to stay connected. The tour operator carries a satellite phone for emergencies.

• What meals are included during the trek?

  The tour includes 5 breakfasts, 4 lunches, and 4 dinners, all prepared with local natural ingredients. The last lunch in Aguas Calientes is not included.