The following outlines the operational details and services included in the Salkantay Trek 3 Days to Machu Picchu, covering logistics, accommodation, meals, and support throughout the trek.
Pre-Trek Briefing
A mandatory briefing is held at 7:00 PM the day before departure at the Cusco office. During this session:
- The guide provides technical and logistical information
- Pick-up time is confirmed
- Entry tickets and train tickets (if applicable) are delivered
- Duffle bags (7 kg limit) are distributed
Participants must bring their passport. Outstanding balances can be paid, and optional equipment (sleeping bags or trekking poles) can be arranged.
Professional Guides
The trek is led by certified bilingual guides (English and Spanish) with experience in high-altitude routes. Guides accompany the group throughout the trek and conduct the guided visit at Machu Picchu. Each guide carries a first aid kit and oxygen supply.
Pick-Up Service
Pick-up is included from hotels or accommodations in Cusco between 2:00 AM and 2:30 AM. The exact time is confirmed during the briefing. Participants may also meet at the office if located nearby.
Duffle Bag Service
Each participant is provided with a duffle bag with a maximum allowance of 7 kg. These bags are transported by horses and are available at each campsite. Participants hike with a personal daypack only.
Transportation
Private transportation is provided from Cusco to Soraypampa, the starting point of the trek. The journey takes approximately 3 hours in a tourist vehicle.
Meals
The program includes:
- 3 breakfasts
- 2 lunches
- 2 dinners
Meals are prepared by a dedicated cooking team using fresh ingredients. Dietary requirements such as vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options are accommodated.
Accommodation
- 1 night in panoramic domes (Lucmabamba)
- 1 night in a hotel in Aguas Calientes
Campsites include mattresses and pillows. Sleeping bags are not included but are available for rent.
Hotel in Aguas Calientes
Accommodation includes private rooms with basic amenities such as hot showers and Wi-Fi. This provides rest before the Machu Picchu visit.
Cooking Team and Equipment
A specialized cooking team prepares all meals during the trek. All kitchen equipment and utensils are transported and set up at each campsite.
Muleteers and Horses
A support team transports camping equipment, food supplies, and duffle bags. This allows participants to carry only essential items during the hike.
Machu Picchu Entry Ticket
The package includes an official Machu Picchu entrance ticket. The assigned circuit depends on availability at the time of booking, with priority given to:
- Circuit 2-A (Classic Route)
- Circuit 2-B (Lower Terrace)
Advance booking (3 to 4 months) is recommended to secure preferred circuits.
Guided Tour
The program includes a guided visit of approximately 2 to 2.5 hours at Machu Picchu, based on the assigned circuit and entry time. Additional personal time is provided after the tour.
Return Options
Train Option
- Train from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo (1.5 hours)
- Transfer to Cusco (2 hours)
- Estimated arrival: around 6:30 PM
Car Option
- 3-hour hike to Hidroelectrica
- 6 to 7-hour drive to Cusco
- Estimated arrival: around 10:00 PM
Storage Service
Free luggage storage is available at the Cusco office from 4:30 AM to 10:00 PM. This service is included for all clients.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian, vegan, and other dietary requirements are available at no additional cost. Preferences must be communicated in advance.
Emergency Support
Guides carry oxygen tanks and first aid kits and are trained to respond to emergencies during the trek.
The following information outlines additional expenses and optional services related to the Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu.
Entrance Fee (Salkantay Route)
On Day 1, an entrance fee must be paid to the local municipality of Mollepata.
- Foreign visitors: 20 PEN (approximately USD 6)
- Peruvian nationals: 10 PEN (approximately USD 3)
Payment is made in cash and in Peruvian soles at the control point.
Sleeping Bag Rental
Sleeping bags are not included. Rental is available for USD 15 for the entire trek. The equipment provided is suitable for temperatures down to -10°C.
Trekking Poles Rental
Trekking poles are available for rent at USD 15 per pair for the duration of the trek. They are recommended for stability on uneven terrain.
Drinking Water
Refilling of personal water bottles is not included. Water is provided during meals for beverages. For additional water, participants may:
- Purchase bottled water along the route (5–12 PEN per 2.5 liters)
- Use personal filtration systems or purification tablets
Internet Connection
Mobile signal is not available from approximately 9:00 AM on Day 1 until arrival at the second campsite. Wi-Fi is available at the second campsite for approximately 10 PEN. From Day 3 onward, mobile connectivity is generally available.
Showers and Toilets
- Toilets are available at campsites at no additional cost
- Local facilities along the route may charge approximately 1 PEN per use
- Hot showers are available at the second campsite for 10 PEN; cold showers are free
- Showers are not available at the first campsite due to low temperatures
- Additional options include hot springs on Day 3 and showers at the hotel in Aguas Calientes
Tips
Tips are not included and remain optional. Tipping is customary within the trekking industry in the Cusco region but is not mandatory.
Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is not included in the program. It is recommended to obtain coverage in advance in your country of residence, as local options may be limited.
