Salkantay Trek + Zipline Tour in Santa Teresa

Description

The Salkantay Trek with zipline in Santa Teresa is designed for travelers who want to combine the intensity of high-altitude trekking with adventure experiences in a diverse natural environment. Throughout the journey, the contrast between the Andean landscapes and the high jungle of Cusco creates a constant sense of discovery, where each section offers a different perspective of the path to Machu Picchu. This tour stands out for its dynamism, ideal for those seeking more than a traditional hike.

Beyond the physical exertion, the experience is enriched with moments of adrenaline and enjoyment, such as the zipline, which allows you to appreciate the surroundings from the air and release tension accumulated during the trek. Arriving at Machu Picchu after experiencing mountains, jungle, and adventure transforms the visit into a special finale, where the excitement of the journey adds to the historical significance of the final destination.

Itinerary

📍Day 1: Cusco – Soraypampa – Humantay Lagoon – Andean Camp

We depart early from Cusco towards Soraypampa, the starting point of the Salkantay Trek. The journey by vehicle offers panoramic views of the Andes until we reach the foothills of the Salkantay mountain.

From Soraypampa, we begin our hike towards Humantay Lagoon, one of the most photographed landscapes in Cusco thanks to its turquoise waters and glacial setting. After some time to enjoy the scenery, we descend to the camp, where we spend the night surrounded by mountains.

🔹 Maximum altitude: 4,200 m
🔹 Approximate distance: 12 km

📍Day 2: Soraypampa – Salkantay Pass – Huayracmachay – Chaullay

This day is the most demanding section of the Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu. We hike uphill to Salkantay Pass (4,650 m), the highest point of the trek, offering breathtaking views of the Salkantay mountain.

After the descent, the landscape gradually changes, transitioning into greener areas until we reach the Chaullay campsite, in a more temperate natural environment.

🔹 Maximum Altitude: 4,650 m
🔹 Approximate Distance: 18 km

📍Day 3: Chaullay – La Playa – Santa Teresa – Zipline

The third day of the Salkantay Trek with Adventure offers a more relaxed hike through coffee plantations, tropical fruit orchards, and small Andean villages. Upon arriving in Santa Teresa, we change the pace of the trip for an adrenaline-filled experience.

In the afternoon, we enjoy the zipline activity in Santa Teresa, crossing valleys and rivers suspended in the air, surrounded by jungle and mountains. It’s a fun and unique way to end the day before resting.

🔹 Featured Activity: Zipline
🔹 Approximate Hiking Distance: 15 km

📍Day 4: Santa Teresa – Hidroeléctrica – Aguas Calientes

After breakfast, we head towards Hidroeléctrica, the starting point for a gentle hike along the railway line. The trail winds through high jungle, past rivers and overgrown mountains, bringing us ever closer to Machu Picchu.

In the afternoon, we arrive in Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu Pueblo), where we rest at a hotel and prepare for the next day’s visit.

🔹 Approximate distance: 10 km

📍Day 5: Machu Picchu – Ollantaytambo – Cusco

Very early, we take a bus up to the citadel of Machu Picchu for a comprehensive guided tour. During the tour, you will see the main archaeological sites, temples, and viewpoints, gaining an understanding of the sanctuary’s historical and spiritual significance.

After the tour, we return by tourist train to Ollantaytambo and then take a bus to Cusco, concluding this Salkantay Trek + Zipline tour in Santa Teresa.

✅What does the tour include?

✔️Pick-up from your hotel in Cusco

We begin the adventure with a direct pick-up from your accommodation in the historic center of Cusco.

✔️Complete tourist transportation as per the program

Includes transportation from Cusco to the starting point of the Salkantay Trek, internal transfers along the route, and the final return from Ollantaytambo to Cusco.

✔️Certified professional guide (Spanish and English)

Constant accompaniment by a guide specializing in high-altitude trekking, alternative routes of the Salkantay Trek, and adventure activities.

✔️Support and logistics team on the route

Support staff, cooks, and porters responsible for transporting group equipment, preparing meals, and setting up camp.

✔️Full board during the trek

Breakfast, lunch, and dinner prepared en route with fresh ingredients, designed for demanding activities at high altitude.

✔️Entrance to Humantay Lagoon

Entrance included to one of Cusco’s most impressive natural attractions, located at the foot of the Humantay mountain.

✔️Zipline activity in Santa Teresa

Zipline experience included, with complete safety equipment and supervision by specialized instructors.

✔️Accommodation in Santa Teresa and Aguas Calientes

Lodging in tourist accommodations according to the program and category chosen.

✔️Guided tour of Machu Picchu

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

✔️First aid kit and oxygen

Basic assistance during the trek for immediate attention in case of altitude sickness.

❌ What’s not included?

✖️Breakfast on the first day and lunch/dinner on the last day

Some meals outside the program are not included, especially before starting the trek and at the end of the tour in Cusco.

✖️Sleeping bag

You can rent one from the agency if you don’t have your own. It’s recommended due to the low nighttime temperatures in high-altitude areas.

✖️Trekking poles

Optional. If you rent them, they must have rubber tips to protect the trails.

✖️Personal expenses

Additional drinks, snacks, tips, and personal purchases during the trek.

✖️Travel Insurance

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

✖️Additional Mountain Entrance Fees at Machu Picchu

Entrance fees to Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain are not included and must be requested in advance.

🌟 Recommendations

✔️Acclimatization in Cusco or the Sacred Valley

Staying at least 1 or 2 days before the tour helps reduce the effects of altitude sickness.

✔️Good physical condition

The Salkantay Trek is demanding in some sections; prior preparation is recommended.

✔️Appropriate layered clothing

The climate varies between high mountain and jungle conditions. Bring thermal and waterproof clothing.

✔️Trekking boots with good traction

Essential for walking safely on uneven terrain.

✔️Openness to adventure

The zipline is a safe and fun experience, ideal for releasing tension from the trek.

✔️Respect for nature

Leave no trace and always follow the instructions of the guide and instructors.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

Is the zipline mandatory?

Yes, it’s part of the program; however, it’s an optional activity for those who prefer not to participate.

What is the difficulty level of this tour?

It’s moderate to challenging, combining mountain trekking and adventure activities.

Do I need prior experience for the zipline?

No. The team provides instructions and complete supervision.

What is the best time to do this tour?

From April to October, during the dry season.

Does the tour include entrance to Machu Picchu?

Yes, the package includes entrance and a guided tour.