How should I prepare for the Salkantay Trek if I’m not used to high altitude?
- If you’re not accustomed to high altitudes and you’re coming from sea level, it’s important to know that Cusco sits at 3,300 meters (10,800 ft) above sea level, and the highest point on the Salkantay Trek reaches 4,700 meters (15,400 ft). To help your body adjust, we recommend arriving in Cusco at least 2 days before the trek begins.
Once you arrive, make sure to:
- Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated
- Try coca tea, a traditional remedy that helps reduce altitude sickness symptoms
- Avoid strenuous activity and give your body time to rest
- Eat light meals, especially during the first 24 hours
- For a smoother acclimatization, we also suggest taking easy-going tours like the Cusco City Tour or the Sacred Valley Tour, which are done by vehicle and involve minimal physical effort. These tours are a great way to enjoy local culture while your body adapts to the altitude.
Can I change the 5-day Salkantay Trek to the 4-day version?
- Yes, it’s possible to change your reservation from the 5-day Salkantay Trek to the 4-day version, as long as we have availability for the new itinerary. In this case, the trek would start one day later than your originally scheduled date, but your arrival at Machu Picchu would remain the same, since entrance tickets to Machu Picchu cannot be modified or rescheduled.
- This adjustment simply involves delaying your trek departure by one day, without changing your visit to Machu Picchu. If you’d like to make this change, please contact us as soon as possible so we can check availability.
Do I need gloves for the Salkantay Trek?
- Yes, it is recommended to bring gloves for the Salkantay Trek, as the first night and the morning of the second day are usually quite cold. Gloves will help protect your hands from the low temperatures. They don’t need to be anything special—any warm pair will do. You can even buy a pair at the local markets in Cusco for around 7 to 10 soles.
Can I change the date, circuit, or name on my Machu Picchu ticket?
- Once the Machu Picchu ticket has been purchased, no modifications can be made. You cannot change the date, the name on the ticket, the entry time, or the type of circuit. If you do not use your ticket on the scheduled date and time, unfortunately, it will be lost.
This is because the tickets are issued by the Government of Peru, and their official policies do not allow any changes or refunds under any circumstances.