Salkantay: The Majestic Andean Peak
Experience the breathtaking beauty and cultural richness of Salkantay, a majestic peak in the Peruvian Andes, perfect for adventure and exploration.
Nestled in the heart of the Peruvian Andes, Salkantay offers breathtaking views and an adventurous trek that captivates nature lovers and thrill-seekers alike. This towering peak is renowned for its stunning beauty, diverse ecosystems, and rich cultural significance, making it a must-visit location for tourists exploring the region.
A brief summary to Salkantay
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Local tips
- Acclimatize properly before starting the trek to mitigate altitude sickness.
- Consider hiring a local guide for a richer understanding of the area's culture and history.
- Pack layers of clothing, as temperatures can vary significantly from day to night.
- Stay hydrated and carry enough water; there are limited sources along the trail.
- Don’t forget your camera; the views are breathtaking and worth capturing.
Getting There
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Car
If you are traveling by car, head towards the town of Mollepata, located approximately 2.5 hours from Cusco. From Mollepata, continue on the road towards Soraypampa, which is the starting point for the Salkantay Trail. The road is unpaved and can be bumpy, so be prepared for a rugged drive. Ensure you have a reliable vehicle as some parts may require a higher clearance. Parking is available at Soraypampa, where you can begin your trek to Salkantay.
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Public Transportation
To reach Salkantay via public transportation, take a bus or collectivo from Cusco to Mollepata. Buses leave frequently from the main terminal in Cusco, and the journey takes about 2.5 hours. Once you arrive in Mollepata, you can find collectivos (shared taxis) that will take you to Soraypampa. The collectivo ride will take about 1 hour and costs around 15-20 soles per person. Be sure to confirm with the driver that they are heading to Soraypampa.
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Hiking
If you are already on the Salkantay Trail, you can hike to Salkantay Mountain from Soraypampa. Follow the well-marked trail that leads you through stunning landscapes. The hike will take approximately 3-4 hours depending on your pace. Make sure to start early in the morning to avoid afternoon rain and to enjoy the scenic views. Bring plenty of water and snacks for the hike, as there are no facilities on the trail.
Discover more about Salkantay
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Sky High Expeditions
0.9 km
Experience the breathtaking Andes with Sky High Expeditions, your premier adventure tour operator for hiking, climbing, and skiing in Salkantay, Cusco.
Refugios Salkantay
7.9 km
Explore the stunning Andes at Refugios Salkantay, your perfect base for the iconic Salkantay trek and unforgettable Peruvian adventures.
Winay Wayna
15.4 km
Explore Winay Wayna: A Majestic Inca Ruin Surrounded by Lush Andes Landscapes and Rich Cultural Heritage.
Ruinas de Choquechurco
15.9 km
Discover the ancient Incan heritage at the breathtaking Ruinas de Choquechurco, a must-visit historical landmark in Peru's stunning Andes mountains.
CAMINO A MACHU PICCHU
17.5 km
Discover the ancient wonders of Machu Picchu, a breathtaking Incan citadel that promises an unforgettable experience amidst stunning Andean landscapes.
Sanctuary Lodge, A Belmond Hotel, Machu Picchu
18.4 km
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The main Plaza
18.7 km
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Group of the Three Doorways
18.7 km
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Sacred Rock at Machu Picchu
18.8 km
Discover the Sacred Rock at Machu Picchu, an awe-inspiring landmark steeped in Incan history and surrounded by breathtaking Andean landscapes.
Uña Picchu
18.9 km
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Camino peatonal a Machu Picchu
18.9 km
Discover the breathtaking pedestrian pathway to Machu Picchu, where lush landscapes meet ancient Incan history, perfect for every adventurer.
Huchuy Picchu
18.9 km
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Mariposario of Machu Picchu
18.9 km
Discover the beauty of the Mariposario of Machu Picchu, where colorful butterflies dance among stunning flora in a serene sanctuary.
Unmissable attractions to see
Montaña Salkantay
0.3 km
Explore Montaña Salkantay: A breathtaking hiking area offering stunning views, diverse ecosystems, and rich cultural experiences in the heart of the Andes.
Nevado Salcantay
0.6 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Nevado Salcantay, a stunning glacier in the Peruvian Andes, perfect for adventurers and nature lovers.
Salcantay
0.7 km
Explore the breathtaking beauty of Salcantay, a majestic peak in the Peruvian Andes, perfect for adventure seekers and nature lovers alike.
Salkantay montaña, peru
0.8 km
Experience the awe-inspiring beauty of Salkantay Mountain in Peru, a breathtaking destination for adventure seekers and nature lovers alike.
Laguna Salkantay
2.2 km
Explore the breathtaking beauty of Laguna Salkantay, a hidden gem in the Peruvian Andes, perfect for hiking and nature photography.
Laguna Humantay
2.4 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty and spiritual significance of Laguna Humantay, a stunning turquoise lake nestled in the heart of the Peruvian Andes.
Abra Salkantay
2.5 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Abra Salkantay, an iconic hiking area in the Andes with stunning mountain views and rich cultural encounters.
Humantay
4.5 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Humantay, a stunning mountain peak in the Peruvian Andes, known for its vibrant turquoise lake and tranquil landscapes.
Nevado humantay
5.1 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Nevado Humantay, a stunning glacial lake in the Peruvian Andes, perfect for nature lovers and adventurers.
Montaña humantay
5.5 km
Explore the turquoise waters of Humantay Lake at Montaña Humantay, a breathtaking hiking destination in the heart of the Peruvian Andes.
Salkantay Trek
5.9 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of the Salkantay Trek, a premier hiking destination in the Peruvian Andes, with stunning landscapes and cultural heritage.
Casita mitad de camino a Laguna Humantay
6.5 km
Experience the captivating beauty and rich history at Casita mitad de camino a Laguna Humantay, your gateway to the Andes.
Humantay Lake
6.5 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Humantay Lake, a turquoise gem in the heart of the Peruvian Andes, perfect for nature lovers and adventurers alike.
Inca shrine
6.6 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty and spiritual serenity of Humantay Lake Shrine in the Peruvian Andes, a must-visit for every nature lover.
Salkantay Sky Lodge
6.9 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of the Andes at Salkantay Sky Lodge, where luxury meets adventure in the heart of Peru.
Essential places to dine
Restaurant Turístico El Encanto Salkantay
16.6 km
Experience authentic Peruvian breakfast at Restaurant Turístico El Encanto Salkantay amidst breathtaking mountain views.
La Cabaña de Gabriel Logde & Restaurant
18.3 km
Experience authentic Peruvian cuisine amidst breathtaking views at La Cabaña de Gabriel Lodge & Restaurant in Machu Picchu.
Restaurante Tinkuy Buffet Restaurant at Sanctuary Lodge
18.4 km
Experience authentic Peruvian cuisine with breathtaking views at Restaurante Tinkuy Buffet Restaurant near Machu Picchu.
Tampu Restaurant at Sanctuary Lodge
18.4 km
Experience exquisite Peruvian cuisine with breathtaking views at Tampu Restaurant near Machu Picchu.
Snack Bar
18.4 km
Discover culinary delights at Snack Bar - where local flavors meet tourist favorites in a cozy setting.
Restaurante
18.5 km
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Laurita Wasi Machu Picchu
19.0 km
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Casa Salkantay
19.3 km
Experience authentic Peruvian cuisine at Casa Salkantay in Ayacucho - where tradition meets taste in every dish.
Café Inkaterra
19.5 km
Discover Café Inkaterra: where Peruvian flavors meet breathtaking views in Aguas Calientes.
Machu Pisco Bar & Restaurant
19.6 km
Experience authentic Peruvian cuisine at Machu Pisco Bar & Restaurant in Aguas Calientes - your gateway to culinary delights and stunning views.
Taywa
19.7 km
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Full House Peruvian cuisine &craft beer
19.7 km
Discover authentic Peruvian flavors at Full House - a must-visit restaurant in Aguas Calientes for food lovers exploring Machu Picchu.
Julian Restaurant
19.7 km
Experience authentic Peruvian cuisine at Julian Restaurant in Aguas Calientes - where every dish tells a story amidst breathtaking views.
Chef House Restaurant - Machu Picchu
19.7 km
Experience authentic Peruvian flavors at Chef House Restaurant in Aguas Calientes – your culinary haven before exploring Machu Picchu.
Chef House
19.7 km
Experience authentic Peruvian cuisine at Chef House in Aguas Calientes, where each dish tells a story of tradition and flavor.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Parada de buses Machu Picchu
18.4 km
Experience the enchanting gateway to Machu Picchu, where adventure begins and stunning Andean views await every traveler.
Gift Shop
18.4 km
Explore a delightful gift shop in Urubamba, offering unique clothing and handcrafted souvenirs that capture the essence of Peru's vibrant culture.
CONDORITO MARKET
19.7 km
Explore the vibrant flavors of Peru at Condorito Market, your local grocery store in Aguas Calientes, filled with fresh produce and traditional snacks.
edith
19.7 km
Explore the artistry of Peruvian jewelry at Edith, a charming jeweler in Aguas Calientes, where culture meets exquisite craftsmanship.
Quenacho sax
19.7 km
Discover authentic Peruvian crafts and unique souvenirs at Quenacho Sax, your go-to gift shop in Aguas Calientes near Machu Picchu.
Blanco y Negro
19.7 km
Experience the rich flavors of Peru at Blanco y Negro, a cozy coffee shop in Aguas Calientes, perfect for travelers exploring Machu Picchu.
Supermarket COMPLETITO
19.7 km
Discover local flavors and essentials at Supermarket COMPLETITO in Aguas Calientes, your go-to grocery store near Machu Picchu.
Munay phaqcha
19.7 km
Discover authentic Peruvian flavors and essential supplies at Munay Phaqcha, your grocery store in Aguas Calientes.
Waffleria Mariela
19.7 km
Experience the sweet side of Aguas Calientes at Waffleria Mariela, where delicious waffles and delightful desserts await your visit.
Crepería de París - Machupicchu
19.7 km
Experience the best crepes and desserts in Aguas Calientes, just steps from Machu Picchu, at Crepería de París - a culinary gem for every traveler.
Mapi Art
19.7 km
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Gift market
19.7 km
Experience the vibrant Gift Market in Aguas Calientes, where unique Peruvian handicrafts and local culture come alive in every colorful stall.
The best silver acce shop
19.7 km
Discover Aguas Calientes' finest silver accessory shop, featuring stunning handcrafted jewelry that embodies Peru's rich cultural heritage.
Aguas Calientes Market
19.7 km
Explore the vibrant Aguas Calientes Market, where local culture, delicious Peruvian cuisine, and unique handicrafts come together in a colorful shopping experience.
Inka Statue
19.8 km
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
19.18Club.
19.6 km
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Machagchas resto bar
19.6 km
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Terraza Cósmica by Supertramp
19.7 km
Experience breathtaking views and creative cocktails at Terraza Cósmica, the ultimate bar in Aguas Calientes for a vibrant night out.
RESTOBAR ALPAKITAY
19.7 km
Discover the flavors of Peru at Restobar Alpakitay, a grill bar in Aguas Calientes serving mouthwatering dishes in a cozy atmosphere.
North Village Bohemian
19.8 km
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Green PUB machupicchu
19.8 km
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El duende feliz
19.8 km
Discover El Duende Feliz, a cozy bar in Aguas Calientes offering local drinks and a vibrant atmosphere for travelers exploring Machu Picchu.
Wayquis
19.8 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Wayquis, a cozy bar in Aguas Calientes offering local drinks and a taste of Peruvian culture.
Modo Restobar
19.8 km
Discover the vibrant flavors of Aguas Calientes at Modo Restobar, a gastropub blending local ingredients with international flair.
Restaurant Bistro Bar Indio Feliz
19.8 km
Experience the flavors of Peru at Bistro Bar Indio Feliz, a culinary oasis in Aguas Calientes, where tradition meets creativity.
Mapi bar
19.9 km
Discover the lively ambiance of Mapi Bar in Aguas Calientes, the perfect spot for a delightful evening after exploring Machu Picchu's wonders.
Magguis Grill Craft Beer
19.9 km
Experience the best of Peruvian cuisine and craft beer at Magguis Grill, a local favorite in Aguas Calientes, near Machu Picchu.
Inka Happiness Cultural Bar
20.0 km
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Blues RestoBarCaffe
20.0 km
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Big Brother's Bar
20.0 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere and local flavors at Big Brother's Bar in Aguas Calientes, the ideal spot to relax after exploring Machu Picchu.