ACCLIMITIZATION IN CUSCO

The key to success for our Machu Picchu trek is acclimatization. It is crucial to take adequate time getting used to the high altitude.

Cusco is one of the highest cities in the world at 11,151ft above sea level.

It is common to experience altitude symptoms upon arrival to Cusco. We will spend 2 days* acclimating to this altitude before beginning our Machu Picchu trek. This acclimatization time in Cusco is mandatory for our group.

We will have a guided hike the day after arrival in Cusco to assist with acclimatization. Overall, physical activity during these first days of our trip should be minimal.

It is recommended to drink lots of water, get adequate rest and eat light meals to improve acclimatization. In addition, Diamox (a prescription medication) can be taken to help your body adjust to the higher altitude.

*Let Tauni know if you would like additional acclimatization time in Cusco, arrangements can be made on your behalf for early arrival.

THE SALKANTAY TREK

We are setting out on the 5-Day Salkantay Trek. This is an alternative route to Machu Picchu for more adventurous travelers. The Salkantay route is less frequented by tourists, offers a more challenging hike, and is considered one of the 25 best treks in the world by National Geographic!

The Salkantay Trek will take us to Humantay Lake, Salkantay Mountain, the cloud forest, waterfalls, glaciers, hot springs and the Peruvian Jungle.

Hiking distance will range from 6 to 13.6 miles per day, with the highest elevation on our hike being 15,100ft.

• Day 1 – 6.2 miles, 5-6 hours hiking, elevation range 12,470 – 13,780 ft
• Day 2 – 13.7 miles, 10 hours hiking, elevation range 9,510 – 15,190 ft
• Day 3 – 11.2 miles, 5-6 hours hiking, elevation range 6,560 – 9,510 ft
• Day 4 – 10 miles, 5-6 hours hiking, elevation range 5,900 – 9,190 ft
• Day 5 – 4 hour exploring Machu Picchu and hiking, 7,970 – 8,920 ft

Along our route we will stay in stunning mountain huts on Days 1, 2 & 3. These lovely accommodations will make your experience private and comfortable. On Day 4, at the end of our hike, we will take a train from Hidroelectrica to to Aguas Calientes where we will enjoy a hotel stay that evening.

Our camp on Days 2 & 3 will have WiFi and warm showers available for $10/item/person, if you choose to use them.

On Day 5 we will arrive to Machu Picchu by bus and enjoy a guided tour of this incredible ancient site. After our tour we will finish our trek by hiking Huayna Picchu Mountain, allowing us to take in the beauty of Machu Picchu from it’s neighboring summit.

We will be supported by experienced English-speaking mountain guides throughout our entire trek. Our guides are trained in mountain safety and will carry first-aid, oxygen and a satellite phone at all times.

Not only will our guides ensure our safety along the route, they will prepare all our meals and teach us about the history and nature of the region along the way.

Horses will carry 7kg (15.4lbs) of your personal belongings, and provided sleeping bag, along the route in a personal duffle bag. You will only have access to these items at camp. An additional 7kg duffle bag can be purchased for $40 if you need additional space for your items.

You will hike each day with just your day pack!

We will be VERY well cared for. With 3 full meals daily (food restrictions can be accommodated), unlimited fresh drinking water, hot coffee and tea, and snacks!

RETURNING TO CUSCO

Getting back to Cusco from Machu Picchu involves a lot of logistics and can take up to 5 hours. This process will be completely arranged for you, we just ask for your patience on this final day of our journey.

After hiking Huayna Picchu Mountain on Day 5 we will take a bus back to Aguas Calientes for lunch before boarding a train to Ollantaytambo. At the final train station a private bus will drive us back to Cusco and finally to our hotel.

You will have one final night in the hotel in Cusco before departing home.