Kondor Path Tours
2 Day Salkantay Trek With Machu Picchu

2 Day Salkantay Trek With Machu Picchu

Price from: $ 332.00 USD (See: Pricing)
2 Day Salkantay Trek With Machu Picchu
Tour Type
Photography Tours
2 Day Salkantay Trek With Machu Picchu
Maximun Altitude
4,630m (15,190 ft)
2 Day Salkantay Trek With Machu Picchu
Physical Level
Moderately Strenuous
2 Day Salkantay Trek With Machu Picchu
Recommended Season
Throughout the year

2 Day Salkantay Trek With Machu Picchu

Price from: $ 332.00 USD (See: Pricing)

Salkantay Trek 2 Days Overview If you’re a nature enthusiast and an adventure seeker, the Salkantay Hike 2 Days should be on your bucket list. This unforgettable journey takes you through some of the most awe-inspiring landscapes in the Andes, offering a taste of Peru’s natural beauty, culture, and history. Is the 2-day Salkantay Trek […]

Tour Plan: Cusco | Salkantay Pass by Horse | Santa Teresa | Machu Picchu Ruins

2 Day Salkantay Trek: A Breathtaking Adventure in the Andes

The Salkantay Trek 2 Days to Machu Picchu is a condensed adventure that encapsulates the grandeur of the Andes and the allure of ancient ruins. From majestic mountains to hidden vistas and cultural exchanges, this trek offers a multifaceted experience that is both physically stimulating and spiritually enriching. With proper preparation, a positive mindset, and a thirst for discovery, you’ll embark on a journey that will forever be etched in your heart.

Embarking on the Salkantay 2 Day Trek is a remarkable journey that combines adventure, nature, culture, and exploration. With its breathtaking landscapes, diverse ecosystems, and genuine interactions with local communities, this expedition promises an experience like no other. Visit the beauty of Peru’s Salkantay trail.

Welcome to an extraordinary expedition that will take you through the heart of Peru’s enchanting landscapes—the Salkantay Hike 2 Days.

Overview

Salkantay Trek 2 Days Overview

If you’re a nature enthusiast and an adventure seeker, the Salkantay Hike 2 Days should be on your bucket list. This unforgettable journey takes you through some of the most awe-inspiring landscapes in the Andes, offering a taste of Peru’s natural beauty, culture, and history.

Is the 2-day Salkantay Trek right for me?

  • DAY 1: Cusco: Soraypampa, Salkantay Pass, and Santa Teresa
  • DAY 2: Santa Teresa, Machu Picchu Ruins, PM Return to Cusco

What Sets Salkantay Trek Apart

What makes the Salkantay Trek 2 Day truly special is its less crowded trails than the famous Inca Trail. This provides a more intimate connection with nature and the surroundings. The trek’s diverse landscapes, from glacial lakes to tropical forests, showcase the remarkable variety of Peru’s ecosystems.

Salkantay 2 Day Trek Highlights

Why You´ll Love the 2 Day Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu

  • The adventure begins in Cusco, where you’ll be picked up and transferred to Soraypampa. On the first day, go on the horse to Salkantay Pass, and from there, hike down the mountain through picturesque landscapes, culminating in reaching Challway. As the sun sets, you will enjoy a fascinating view between the cloud forest and the Salkantay Andes.
  • Embarking on the Salkantay Hike 2 Days to Machu Picchu is not merely a trek; it’s an experience of a lifetime. Over two days, you’ll traverse diverse landscapes, from lush valleys to high-altitude passes, and witness the awe-inspiring Salkantay Mountain, one of the highest peaks in the region.
  • Embrace the opportunity to disconnect from the digital world during the trek. Limited network coverage allows you to fully immerse yourself in the natural beauty around you and engage in meaningful conversations with fellow trekkers.

Itinerary

Salkantay Trek 2 Days Itinerary

Packing Essentials for the 2 Days Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu: Packing right is crucial for a comfortable trekking experience. Ensure you include sturdy hiking boots, moisture-wicking clothing, a good-quality backpack, a headlamp, a hat, sunscreen, and a reusable water bottle.

DAY 1

Cusco – Salkantay Pass – Santa Teresa

Embark on the Journey

At 04:30, we start the trip towards the Salkantay Andes until we reach Soraypampa. At first sight! The scenic landscapes seem unreal because of the incredible views that show the natural beauty that awaits you on the Salkantay Trek.

Conquering the Pass by Horse from Soraypampa

The highlight of the trek is undoubtedly conquering the Salkantay Pass. However, the ascent on horseback shortens the distance to fully enjoy the adventure along the Salkantay trail. Standing on the pass, you will be surrounded by panoramic views of towering mountains and vast valleys.

Cloud Forest Adventure to Challway

From the Andes of the Salkantay Pass, we descend towards Challway for 5 hours. Venturing through the lush cloud forests of the Andes is an experience like no other. The diversity of flora and fauna and the misty ambiance create an enchanting atmosphere that seems straight out of a fairy tale.

Trip from Challway to the thermal baths of Cocalmayo

In Challway, our local vehicle awaits us to transport us to the charming town of Santa Teresa. “1 hour and 10 minutes of travel. Arriving in Santa Teresa, we continue the trip to Cocalmayo to relax our muscles in the natural hot springs, end our adventure through the Salkantay trails in Peru, and prepare for the next day.

Food

1 BL, 1D

Physical Level

5, Challenging

Walking Distance

13.7km (8.5 miles)

Hiking Time

5 Hrs.

Starting Altitude

Starting Altitude Salkantay Pass: 4,630m (15,190 ft)

Minimun Altitude

Minimum Altitude Challway: 2,829m (9,281 ft)

DAY 2

The Final Day of Salkantay Trek – Machu Picchu Ruins

Arrival at Machu Picchu

The pinnacle of this journey is, of course, the legendary Machu Picchu. Arriving through the Main Gate Entrance, the sight of the ancient citadel emerging from the mist is a moment of pure magic. Explore the ruins, learn about their history, and relish the satisfaction of conquering this incredible feat.

The Final Reward: Machu Picchu

The culmination of your Salkantay Hike 2 Days to Machu Picchu is the awe-inspiring Machu Picchu itself. On the morning of day 2, you’ll witness the ancient Incan citadel, which will forever remain etched in your memory.

At 05:30, we board our local vehicle at the Hidrielectrica train station and begin the last stretch of the trek to Machupicchu Pueblo, “3 hours of walking along the Machupicchu Mountain.”

Once we arrive at Aguas Calientes Pueblo, we board the tourist bus that takes us to the top of Machu Picchu Mountain to start the 2-hour guided tour inside the Inca citadel of Machu Picchu. In the afternoon, we board the train service, heading to Cusco.

Food

B

Physical Level

2, Moderate

Walking Distance

9km (5.5 miles)

Hiking Time

3 Hrs.

Starting Altitude

Santa Teresa 1,575m (5,167 ft)

Highest Altitude

Machu Picchu Ruins: 2,400m (7,874 ft)

Inclusions

Salkantay Trek 2 Days INCLUSIONS

  • Personalized adventures for independent hikers
  • Active itinerary with unique hiking experiences
  • English-speaking local guide (s)
  • Pick-up and drop-off are available at your accommodation in Cusco.
  • Horse service from Soraypampa to the Salkantay Pass
  • Private Transportation with Fuel and Driver to SORAYPAMPA
  • One night of accommodation in a basic 2-star hotel in Santa Teresa
  • Meals: 1 breakfast, 1 box lunch, 1 dinner
  • Entrance tickets to the Salkantay Trek and Machu Picchu Ruins are available at 12:00
  • Train service from Machu Picchu to Ollantaytambo and Cusco (bimodal service) by Inca Rail, Class: Voyager, departure at 16:12
  • First aid kit.
  • On-site logistical support from our office in Peru
  • All taxes (Peru)

Salkantay 2 Day Trek EXCLUSIONS

  • All accommodations in and around CUSCO for the excursions
  • International airfare, domestic airfare within Peru, airport departure taxes (Approximate cost: US$ 31.00 for international flights and US$ 10.40 for each domestic flight)
  • Reconfirmation of international flights and items of a personal nature
  • Spending money: allow approximately US$40–90 per day to cover meals, snacks, drinks, limited souvenirs, laundry, tips, personal expenses, and extras.
  • Meals that are not described in the service.
  • Travel Insurance
  • Tipping is a personal gesture: “guide (S) and driver.”

What to Bring for the Salkantay Hike 2 Days?

  • Light backpack
  • Trekking poles with rubber protectors
  • Water: 2.5 liters per person; later, you can buy more in specific places during the walk.
  • Hat, Sunglasses
  • Sunscreen and insect-repellent cream
  • Headlamp
  • Hiking shoes with ankle support
  • Warm layers, jacket, and hiking pants
  • Toilet paper
  • Personal toiletries for hiking
  • Snacks for the adventure
  • Cash in Peruvian currency to buy drinks, snacks, etc.

Notes from Salkantay Trekking 2 Days to Machu Picchu:

* Kondor Path Tours: A Travel Tour Operator 100% for the Salkantay Hike 2 Days 

Travel Guide

The best time to do the Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu with good weather is between April and October since we have clear skies and, to a lesser extent, river rainfall. The dry months are between June and August in the Andes. However, it is suggested to consider the type of clothing to wear during these months because during the day you can enjoy the sun, while at night you feel an intense cold.

The briefing is essential because this is when you will meet your guide. During this meeting, your guide will provide crucial details about the hike, including altitudes, distances, or other facts we may not know.

Yeah. This is very important! We recommend you bring 300 to 400 Peruvian soles. You may not need any of this money, but in an emergency, you should make sure you have enough cash. If you have difficulties on the road, you can use the money to buy alternative transportation such as a local car, horse, or train.

We will provide you with a duffel bag for all hikes. It can carry about 7 kilograms in a duffel bag. Horses will carry these canvas bags throughout the walk. You must bring a small backpack or day pack with any items you may need during the day, such as sunscreen, bug spray, jackets, or snacks.

If you choose to take a private tour, the tour will be tailored to you. The size of the group depends on you and only you. You can decide exactly who will be on the hike with you. This is perfect for couples, families, or groups of friends. You will have your own chef and guide, meaning the walk is more personalized and can meet your needs.

If you are worried about the hike, you can rent an additional horse. The cost is 120.00 soles. You can only ride horses for the first two days while walking uphill. During the final days, you will sometimes have the opportunity to opt out and take a car or train for specific stages of the walk. Also, know that on the first day, you will be going a different route than those who choose to walk. You don’t need to organize this in advance.

Our guides are trained in case you get sick. Unfortunately, it is illegal for us to provide you with altitude medication, but we do our best to help you feel better in other ways. For example, we frequently make coca tea, and the guides carry oxygen bottles.

The weather is very unpredictable for the Salkantay Trek 2 Days; it changes quickly and varies depending on the season. It’s impossible to say precisely what temperature you’ll encounter on your hike. However, in general, the first night will be pretty cold.

It can drop to about 5 degrees Celsius. You will be in the Peruvian jungle towards the end of your hike. In these walk sections, it could be up to 25 degrees Celsius.

No, there is no age limit for the Salkantay Trek 2 Days. There have often been boys and girls under ten, and they concluded that regular and significantly more senior adults. However, the people who make the trip should know that it has many hours of walking and some steep sections.

Yes, there are indeed bathrooms that you can rent along the way. These bathrooms belong to local people and cost 1 to 2 soles. If you don’t want to spend money on it, there is also the option of the Inca bath, which is outdoors.

The walk is challenging since the second day is the steepest climb of almost 4 hours towards the Salkantay Pass. Therefore, we recommend spending at least three days in Cusco to avoid altitude sickness.

Unlike the Inca Trail, the Salkantay does not require permits; you must reserve them in advance. However, you need to book the ticket to Machu Picchu, so we recommend you plan well.

The amount you walk each day varies. An average day is 5 to 8 hours, but on the summit night combined with the next day, you can hike between 8 and 11 hours. Check out the itinerary for an account of the

Pricing Breakdown

Salkantay 2 Day Trek Cost

PRIVATE HIKING SERVICE
Season  2024

Number of persons Price per person
1 $ 759.00 USD
2 $ 536.00 USD
3 $ 467.00 USD
4 $ 414.00 USD
5 $ 394.00 USD
6 $ 371.00 USD
7 $ 358.00 USD
8 $ 348.00 USD
9 $ 340.00 USD
10 $ 332.00 USD

Item Upgrade

TRAIN SERVICES

PERU TRAINS By PeruRail / PER PERSON

+$45. Vistadome train (Inbound Journey: MACHUPICCHU-OLLANTAYTAMBO)
+$498.00 Hiram Bingham train (Inbound Journey: Train MACHUPICCHU-POROY)

Discounts

This applies to the following services:
Machu Picchu Fee

College students and Children get $20 off

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Ani T
Ani T
2023-12-21
Wonderul site, great tour operator and excellent guide We had an evening flight so wanted to do something during the first half of the day, really glad we picked this half-day tour of the Sillustani ruins. The tour agent (Kondor Path Tours) was very flexible about our pickup time and dropoff options, so that really helped. We were able to arrange a later pickup in the morning that included all our luggage and then they dropped us off at the Juliaca airport after the tour. But the Sillustani towers themselves are a real treat to see and learn about all their history. The site itself is very serene and beautiful, with the lake in the background from the main viewpoint. Our tour guide (Richy/Ricardo) was excellent and very helpful and knowledgeable. He gave us not only the ancient history of Sillustani and the adjoining areas, but also a more contemporary history of Peru and the Puno region I have to add that he went over and above by even helping us to check our bags in at JUL airport!
ladyshalyn
ladyshalyn
2023-10-22
Maras and Moray + Pachamanca Easily the best tour experience I had during my trip to Peru. I highly recommend Kondor Tours as the customer service is top-notch. James responded to my queries almost instantly each time and was very helpful. We were even treated to a can of cusquenia beer each when we visited the office! Our guide Alfredo was absolutely amazing and we were fortunate to have him as our guide for the tour. He is very passionate about his job and shared so much valuable information with us. He has a very candid character and we were very comfortable throughout! I highly recommend requesting for him as your guide (the best we had while touring Peru for 3 weeks). Also, I would say opting in for and additional traditional peruvian pachamanca meal experience must not be missed. The community people were very warm and gracious hosts and it is eye opening to witness the preparation of such a traditional feast normally done only for special occasions like weddings. We even had time for dancing! Two thumbs up for sure!
Niels K
Niels K
2023-08-10
3-day Choquequirao Trek We took a three-day private group trek to Choquequirao as a family of five. Kondor Path Tours organized a pick-up and drop-off in Urubamba instead of Cusco and did an extra stop at the Saywhite archeological site. Everything went very smoothly during the entire trip, meals and accommodation were as expected or better. The trek itself is quite demanding (particularly in three days), but the nature/ views/ Choquequirao/ dearth of tourists largely compensate. Anyway, we were looking for a physical challenge! Our guide Oron was great. Explaining, motivating, solving potential problems/ demands. We would definitely recommend Kondor Path Tours.
Anja
Anja
2023-08-05
Proffecional company and perfect guide Kondor Path Tours are so proffecional and easy to work with. We went with them on the 2 days short Inca trail to Machu Picchu with our three children. The correspondence was great and everything was perfectly planned in every detail. Our guide Alfredo was so friendly, knowledgeable and pleasant to be around! Thank you Kondor Path Tours - we couldn’t have asked for more!!
Khadija
Khadija
2023-07-26
Trip to Rainbow Mountain Excellent experience!! Our guide Odon was prompt with pickup time and extremely friendly. The drove to rainbow mountain was smooth. We did the horseback ride up the mountain, and Odon was right there with us. The actual hike up, he provided support, laughter, and information about the region. Amazing experience with an awesome guide. Thank you so much for the wonderful experience.
Jamee Marshall
Jamee Marshall
2023-07-07
Amazing experience, incredible guide! We had an incredible tour experience with Alfred and our driver Diosmio. They took such good care of us. Alfred was so knowledgeable, kind, and really felt like a friend. Highly recommend this company for your future visit! Awesome experience.
Kristi V
Kristi V
2022-05-05
Alittle bit of everything We had a last minute change of plans when it came to our tour. We were supposed to visit the rainbow mountain but with the recent protesting we called to see if we could change last minute and they were very accommodating. Odon and Fernando were amazing! They took us to see multiple attractions and made us feel very at home. And kudos to Renee for the amazing driving. I would highly recommend using this company for a tour. We will definitely use them if we ever come back!
Anthony O
Anthony O
2022-05-05
Atv Tour Odin and Fernando were great as well as our driver Rene. Very informative about the city of Cusco. Enjoyed our tour with this company and these individuals who took us around. Great time! Highly recommend!!!
ReDA
ReDA
2020-01-14
Family vacation Kondor path tours arranged a couple of private tours on our last vacation in Peru. Our first tour was the Rainbow Mountains and the next day we did the sacred Valley Tour. The administrative services were excellent, we met at our hotel the day before our tours and our head guide, Fredy, explained everything perfectly, including what to wear and bring for each tour. On the tour days, our guides (Fredy and Juan Carlos) and driver (Juan Carlos) were great! very knowledgeable, considerate about our party, always helpful and ready to answer questions and meet the expectations (completely different expectations because we had different ages in our party (from 11 to 69 years)) of each party member. The rainbow mountain is awesome and is is really helpful to go with a guide that knows about the area, but also about hiking!!!
theras2000
theras2000
2020-01-09
Excellent guide who stays with you for the entire day The Vinicunca one-day horse tour was fantastic. The friendly and informative Freddy guided us for the entire bus ride and mountain trek. He knew where to stand to get the best photos and made everything fun and accommodating. The horse ride up made it much easier to enjoy the final hike. Lunch was large and tasty. Door to door service.
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