Beyond Rose

Introductory:

Machu Picchu is a one of the newer seven wonders of the world recently discovered in the early 1900s hidden in Andes mountain range.

With it being so remote, the real question is how can it be visited? Which route provides the best experience and view of this beautiful, large country? What maxes our benefit at a low cost?

• Option 1 – Grab transportation such as a plane, a train and direct bus and stay at hotels near the site
• Option 2 – Trek
  • Ica Trail – 26 mile hike, typically takes 4 days to complete while reaching a maximum elevation of 13,828 feet (4,215 meters)
  • Salkantay Trail – 46 miles, typically takes 5 days to complete while reaching a maximum elevation of 15,090 feet (4,600 meters)

There are many options..

Tim decided for us to take on the challenge of the Salkantay Trek. For multiple weeks, we thought we could find a guide for a low cost. But with further research, we decided we can do it solo. With this final decision, the benefits and rewards are maxed. We are on our own time, we absorb and stop at nature’s view at our own pace, we both make executive decisions on where we want to stay, we set the pace and overall thrive. It’s funny that we chose this route for many reasons. We are not hikers/trekkers. We did not take time to acclimate to the elevation. We did not train. The most exercise we’ve done is a 1 month inconsistent gym membership, 7-8 hour shifts of bartending/serving, and attend long walking days for tourism. With all that being said, we were determined.

Reactions:

“It’s better to go with a guide to avoid getting lost.”

“The elevation is high, it will be easier to have a donkey carry your items”

Peru’s tour guides

“The altitude is so high and will be really difficult, please take a guide.”

Friends

“The hardest part is carrying our personal belongings (backpack) while trekking.”

Vinna

Dates set:

Lower season – September 5th, 2022 through September 9th, 2022 (reserved for Machu Picchu at 6:00 AM)

Price/Budget:

By research, tour guides for the Salkantay trek range from $245-$700 USD. There are many variations in cost some companies charge extra for sleeping bags, hiking poles, hiking shoes, etc. Meals are provided but additional food, beverages, and souvenirs are not included in the tour price. Accommodation may change due to the opportunity of having a private room in bigger cities versus campsites or shared rooms. And lastly of course, the generous choice to tip your guide. If you are unable to complete any parts of the hike they offer a horse ride for around 100-120 soles.

During our shopping in Cusco, to prep for the trek, Tim and I stumbled upon the lowest price point advertised at $185 USD.

So our budget/price to beat for this experience is $185 USD. Please note* The breakdown of each day will be provided at the bottom of each post.

Chapter One: Day 1

The day starts bright and early at 3:30 AM. The tour groups typically leave at 4:45 AM. Being without a tour guide means strategically planning for accommodation (to ensure we have a spot to sleep) and best view times (so it’s not overpopulated).

Tim and I met, 2 other French travelers at the hostel that were also doing the same trek solo. We all catched a collectivo (a taxi van that only leaves once full) from Cusco to Mollepata. The van was filled to the max, a gentlemen sat on a bucket flipped upside down in the middle of the walkway. For more comfort, the driver topped off the bucket with a small blanket. 😂

The first stop is Mollepata. Mollepata is a small town which trekkers may begin walking but, it is known to be less scenery. Typically, trekkers catch a taxi to Soraypampa- this is a small village where the trailhead begins on the left side. It was interesting when we caught a taxi in Mollepata. Before we could head out, there was a slight delay due to his tire being flat. The driver quickly had to stop at a small mechanical shop and switch his own tire.

On the way to the village, the taxi driver was stopped by gentlemen who check for paid Humantay passes. If not previously purchased, you are required to pay on the spot. They also require you to fill out your name and passport information.

The accommodation we accepted was about 30 minutes in. That homestay is near the hike entrance to the beautiful Humantay Lake (left hand side). The entrance to the Salkantay trek is also here (trailhead is more centered). There are three options to select for your stay: bunk/shared room (25 soles per night), camping (did not inquiry the price), or private room (100 soles per night).

The hike is extremely hard. The starting elevation of the hike is 4,250m/13,943 feet. The hike is 10km/6.2miles round trip consisting of steep rocky inclines. When you are not acclimated, you will find yourself having a hard time breathing, it makes a huge difference when trying to do any physical movement.

My favorite hikes are the ones that reach a pretty scenery with water. The Humantay Lake is crystal clear water with green hues. A turquoise lagoon with the snow capped mountain of Salkantay. This lake is sacred to the indigenous people of Peru so it is forbidden to swim or fill your water bottle here.

Before you enter the lagoon’s view, there is a stand that sells snacks and beverages (including beer). Tim and I didn’t buy anything but it was nice to have the option to reenergize.

At the lagoon, you also have the option to venture up a short incline on the left to get a different view of The lagoon and the vast valley. It was peaceful to sit and watch the clouds roll over the mountains listening to the occasional winds passing by.

Day 1 $$ Breakdown:

Please note: PP = per person

• Hiking poles 50 soles for 1 pair PP
• Gloves 10 soles PP
• Collectivo/van to Mollepata 20 soles PP
• Entry to Humantay Lake 20 soles PP
• Taxi fr Mollepata to Soraypampa 20 soles PP
• Accommodation 25 soles PP
• Coffee 3 soles (split)
• Dinner 15 soles PP

The current exchange rate: $1.00 USD is equal to about 3.84 Peruvian Soles.

Total spent: $161.5 Soles = $42.05 USD PP

Next Post:

Chapter 2: Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu

Chapter 3: To Santa Teresa

https://beyondvrose.com/2022/09/14/chapter-2-salkantay-trek-to-machu-picchu/