Ultimate Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu - 5 Days

Frequently Asked Questions

• How difficult is this trek?

  All our Trexperiences are designed so that they can be accomplished by trekkers of every ability. Some sections of the trek are challenging while others are much easier. Remember that nothing is impossible. Our guides are very experienced, they are used to accommodating groups of mixed abilities, and they will, of course, be there to help you. We advise that you exercise regularly prior to your trip and that you arrive in Cusco at least 2 days ahead of your trek to acclimatize to the altitude.
• Where do I go to the bathroom on the hike?

  At TreXperience we have introduced the latest and finest Porta-potty toilets and hot showers on all our tours to maximize your trekking experience.
• Whats the food like?

  TreXperience are proud of their highly talented chefs who never fail to cook up a delightful feast despite being in the middle of the Andean Mountains! All chefs specialize in Andean cuisine and are able to cater for all dietary requirements so please let us know in advance of your needs. All breakfasts, lunches, and dinners are provided each day (except lunch on the final day) and the food is both delicious and plentiful. We guarantee the biggest foodies among you won’t fail to be impressed. We will keep those energy levels high with snacks each day and we make sure you have a tea/coffee every morning to wake up and every afternoon to unwind.
• How much water do I need to bring?

  TreXperience will provide all the water you need from the first lunch to the last breakfast. This water is boiled, filtered and cooled and so it is perfectly safe to drink. You will need to bring water storage with you – either a camel bag or water bottle(s) – big enough for at least two liters of water. We also ask that you start your trek on the very first morning with your containers full of drinking water so you have enough water to last you until lunchtime. This is because the porters do not have enough time to get to the first breakfast site ahead of you and prepare the drinking water.
• What are the absolute essentials?

  Valid, original Passport (a copy will not be accepted)
Valid, Student Card (if you booked as a student)
Immigration Card (given to you on the plane as you enter Peru)
Hiking boots (light, comfortable and broken in)
A good quality daypack (light, small and comfortable)
Water storage for at least 2 litres; either a camel bag or water bottle(s)
• What Should I Bring In My Daypack?

  Below is a list of items that we highly recommend you keep with you at all times in your personal backpack. Remember you will be carrying this with you every day of the trek so we recommend you bring a good quality daypack which is both light and comfortable. It is important to note that due to local regulations, your backpack should not exceed 25L. All larger backpacks cannot be taken into Machu Picchu and will need to be stored outside the gates.

Hat and sunglasses 
Rain gear
Warm layers (fleece / long sleeved tops)
Sun cream, bug spray
Hand sanitiser
Toilet paper
Personal medication
Band aids, moleskin
Camera, extra batteries
Head torch
Extra snacks, power bars, chocolate
Extra money for souvenirs, drinks & tips (small change is useful for paying to use the villagers’ toilets on the first day
• Any advice for what to bring in my duffel bag?

  Trexperience will provide you with a duffel bag in which you can pack any items that you won’t need to keep with you during the day. Our porters will carry this bag for you throughout the trek. Please note this bag should weigh a maximum of 7 kg including the weight of your sleeping bag and air mattress (if you bring / rent one). When rented from us these two items weigh approximately 3.5 kg. During the Inca Trek you will travel through different temperatures as you climb / descend, it can also be cold at night when at the campsite. Therefore layers work best!

Sleeping bag (can be rented from us)
Air mattress (can be rented from us)
Some light, comfortable shoes for the camp
Warm jacket, hat and gloves
2-3 t-shirts (wicking t-shirts are best)
1-2 hiking pants / trousers
4 sets of undergarments
4 sets of hiking socks
1 Fleece
1 Warm, down jacket for the coldest nights
Quick dry towel
Soap
Wet wipes
Toothbrush and paste
Face moisturizer
Power pack / battery charger
Plastic bags to keep wet or muddy clothes separate
• When should I Arrive in Cusco

  We advise all hikers to arrive in Cusco at least two days prior to your TreXperience. This will enable you to get used to the high altitude. Those who have not had time to acclimatize may struggle with the treks.

Cusco is a domestic airport only and therefore international visitors typically arrive via Lima. The easiest and fastest way to get to Cusco from Lima is to take a flight. The bus journey from Lima to Cusco is very long (approximately 20 hours). Visitors traveling to Cusco from closer cities in Peru are advised to take a bus. There are a number of companies in Peru operating very comfortable bus journeys. We advise you to book your bus journey in advance as ticket do sell out.

There are many hotels locates throughout Cusco city. If you require any assistance with booking a hotel or would like some recommendations of where to stay then please do not hesitate to contact the TreXperience Team.
• Can you help me plan my time before the trip in Cusco?

  TreXperience offers a free transfer service to and from the airport and your hotel so you don’t have to worry about anything; please provide us with your flight time and number in advance.
TreXperience is pleased to offer you 24-hour assistance while you are in Cusco; feel free to call us or visit our office. Our travel staff is happy to assist you with organizing your time in Cusco and planning activities and excursions. We do not charge for this service.
TreXperience organizes a number of activities to support local communities. If you are interested in volunteering your time and getting involved then please do not hesitate to request more information regarding these opportunities.
• Will I get Altitude Sickness?

  Cusco city is located at 3300 meters above sea level so the air is thinner here, with less oxygen than you may be used to. Some visitors experience altitude sickness, in particular when they first arrive to the city. We advise all hikers to arrive at least two days prior to their trek to give themselves time to acclimatize. Machu Picchu and Aguas Calientes, however, are located much lower – at around 2000 meters – therefore you are less likely to suffer from altitude sickness in these locations. If you do find yourself struggling with the altitude, the following tips should help you:

Deep breathing exercises
Rest and relax upon your arrival
Drinking a lot of water, this will help you adapt faster
Coca tea and muña tea from the Andes help to reduce altitude sickness
Alcohol and drugs are a big no if you having trouble with the altitude
Diamox or Acetazolamide (you can find these medications in any drugstore in Cusco, please check with your Doctor to ensure you are not allergic to any medication)
Supplementary oxygen is provided in every hotel in Cusco. If you don’t have access to supplementary oxygen then call us and we will deliver some to you free of charge