Salkantay Bike Tour + Hiking

Description

The Salkantay Trek by bike and hike is an unconventional way to reach Machu Picchu, designed for travelers seeking a combination of adrenaline, nature, and freedom of movement. Unlike classic treks, this multisport experience allows you to cover long distances by mountain bike and then connect on foot with dramatically changing landscapes: from high mountain passes to temperate valleys and high jungle. The dynamic pace of the journey offers a constant sense of exploration, ideal for those who enjoy physical challenges and wide-open spaces.

More than just a trek, this tour represents a different way of experiencing the journey to Machu Picchu. Contact with local communities, sections far removed from mass tourism, and the blend of cycling and hiking create an authentic and seamless experience. Arriving at the Inca citadel after several days of effort transforms the visit into a special moment, where adventure and landscape naturally blend into the traveler’s memory.

Itinerary

📍Day 1: Cusco – Abra Málaga – Huamanmarca – Santa María (High-Altitude Biking)

The adventure begins very early in Cusco with a transfer to Abra Málaga, one of the highest mountain passes in the region. From here, we begin the downhill mountain bike leg, traveling along ancient Andean trails and secondary roads surrounded by snow-capped peaks, lagoons, and rural communities.

As we descend, the climate changes and the vegetation becomes denser, entering the cloud forest. The day combines adrenaline, wide-open landscapes, and contact with local life, until we reach the town of Santa María, where we spend the night.

🔹 Main Activity: Mountain biking
🔹 Approximate distance: 45 km
🔹 Maximum altitude: 4,300 m

📍Day 2: Santa María – Santa Teresa – Hot Springs (Hiking and local culture)

This day is dedicated to hiking the Salkantay Trail, walking along ancient Inca paths that connect small farming villages. The route is more relaxed, ideal for enjoying the surroundings, rivers, and plantations of coffee, cacao, and tropical fruits.

In the afternoon, we arrive in Santa Teresa, where you’ll have the option to relax in the Cocalmayo hot springs, a perfect rest after the physical activity. Overnight in a lodge or local accommodation.

🔹 Main Activity: Hiking
🔹 Approximate Distance: 15 km

📍Day 3: Santa Teresa – Hydroelectric Plant – Aguas Calientes (High Jungle Trekking)

We continue our trek towards Machu Picchu following the Hydroelectric Plant route, one of the most popular hikes due to its stunning natural surroundings. The trail runs parallel to the Urubamba River, surrounded by high jungle, waterfalls, and lush mountains.

This section is ideal for birdwatching and enjoying the contrast between the mountains and the Amazon rainforest. In the afternoon, we arrive in Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu Pueblo). Overnight in a hotel.

🔹 Main Activity: Trekking
🔹 Approximate Distance: 10 km

📍Day 4: Machu Picchu – Ollantaytambo – Cusco

Very early in the morning, we take a bus to the citadel of Machu Picchu for a complete guided tour. You’ll explore the main temples, plazas, and viewpoints, gaining an understanding of the sanctuary’s historical and spiritual significance.

After the visit, you’ll return by tourist train to Ollantaytambo and then take ground transportation to Cusco, concluding this unforgettable Salkantay trek by bike and hike to Machu Picchu.

✅What does the tour include?

✔️Pick-up from your hotel in Cusco

We begin the adventure with direct pick-up from your accommodation in the historic center of Cusco, avoiding additional transfers and making the start of the tour easier.

✔️Tourist transportation throughout the tour

Includes transportation from Cusco to the starting point of the bike circuit, as well as necessary transportation during the route and the final return from Ollantaytambo to Cusco.

✔️Mountain bike and safety equipment

A well-maintained mountain bike, helmet, gloves, and basic protective gear for a safe Salkantay bike ride.

✔️Professional guide specializing in cycling and trekking

Accompaniment by a certified guide with experience in mountain biking in Cusco, trekking, and alternative routes to Machu Picchu.

✔️Basic mechanical assistance during cycling

Technical support for adjustments, minor punctures, and general bike checks during the ride.

✔️Meals as per the program

Breakfast, lunch, and dinner on activity days, prepared with local ingredients and suitable for adventure activities.

✔️Guided hiking on alternative routes

Guided hikes along natural trails and traditional routes, connecting Andean areas with the high jungle.

✔️Accommodation during the tour

Lodging in hotels or tourist hostels in towns along the route and in Aguas Calientes, depending on the chosen package category.

✔️Entrance to Machu Picchu

Entrance included to the Inca citadel for the guided tour, according to the circuit available at the time of booking.

✔️Guided tour of Machu Picchu

Interpretive tour of the main archaeological sites, with historical and cultural explanations.

✔️Tourist train Aguas Calientes – Ollantaytambo

Return by tourist train through the Sacred Valley, with panoramic views of the Urubamba River.

✔️First aid kit and oxygen

The guide carries a basic first aid kit and oxygen for assistance in case of altitude sickness.

❌ What’s not included?

✖️Breakfast on the first day and meals outside the program

Some meals before the start of the tour or outside the itinerary are not included.

✖️Entrance to the Cocalmayo hot springs (optional)

Entrance fee is paid directly at the destination for those who wish to participate in this activity.

✖️Personal Expenses

Snacks, additional drinks, tips, and personal purchases during the trip.

✖️Travel Insurance

It is recommended to purchase insurance that covers adventure activities such as mountain biking and trekking.

✖️Additional Personal Equipment

Technical clothing, sunglasses, sunscreen, and other personal items.

✖️Tips for the Team

Optional and at the traveler’s discretion.

🌟 Recommendations

✔️Previous mountain biking experience

This isn’t an extremely technical route, but it’s recommended to be able to handle mountain biking on long descents and uneven terrain.

✔️Acclimatization in Cusco

Spending at least one or two days in Cusco or the Sacred Valley helps prevent altitude sickness.

✔️Appropriate layered clothing

The climate varies between high mountain areas and jungle; bring thermal and waterproof clothing.

✔️Appropriate footwear

Trekking shoes for the walking sections and comfortable shoes for rest.

✔️Constant hydration

Bring a reusable water bottle and stay hydrated throughout the trip.

✔️Respect for nature and local communities

Always follow the guide’s instructions and take care of the trails.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for beginners?

It is recommended for travelers with moderate to good physical fitness and basic mountain biking experience.

What type of bike is used?

A mountain bike (MTB) in good condition, adapted to the Andean terrain, is used.

How many hours of cycling are used per day?

It depends on the section, but generally between 4 and 6 hours of actual cycling time.

Can I bring my own bike?

Yes, after coordinating with the agency for transportation and technical adjustments.

What is the best time to take the tour?

April to October, during the dry season, is the most recommended time.

Does this tour include hiking to Machu Picchu?

Yes, the final access to Machu Picchu is by bus from Aguas Calientes, after completing the trekking sections.