Frequently Asked Questions – Salkantay Trek 2 Days
At Tunqui Expeditions, we want your trip to Peru to be as memorable and stress-free as possible. In this section, you’ll find answers to the most common questions about traveling with us—all in one place.
Still have questions? 💬 Contact us, and we’ll get back to you as soon as possible!
Is the Salkantay Trek right for me?
The Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu is an excellent alternative to the Inca Trail and is best suited for adventurous hikers who can handle higher altitudes and longer distances. The trek to the famous Salkantay Pass (4,630 m / 15,190 ft) isn’t extremely steep or exhausting since it’s reached early in the hike. However, it still requires stamina and proper acclimatization in Cusco beforehand.
How many days do I need to acclimate in Cusco before the Salkantay Trek?
It’s very important to be well acclimatized to the altitude before taking on the physical demands of the trek. We recommend arriving in Cusco at least 2 to 3 days before your trek to adapt and reduce the risk of altitude sickness.
If you’ve already been at high altitudes in other parts of Peru, we still suggest spending at least one full day in Cusco to rest, recover, and enjoy the sights before your adventure.
Suggested tours before your trek:
Here are a few recommended activities near Cusco to enjoy before your adventure:
- 🏞️ Sacred Highlands Hike To Pisac: US$ 210.00 → Special offer: US$ 180.00
- 🏛️ Cusco Ruins Hike: US$ 210.00 → Special offer: US$ 180.00
- 🎒 Authentic Andean Experience: US$ 180.00 → Special offer: US$ 150.00
- 🥾 Chinchero to Urquillos Inca Trail Adventure: US$ 210.00 → Special offer: US$ 180.00
- 🦙 Scenic Day Hike with Llamas: US$ 210.00 → Special offer: US$ 180.00
Briefing (Pre-Trek Meeting)
All pre-trek briefings are held at our main office in Cusco (or your hotel) at 5:00 pm the day before your tour begins. Briefings typically last 30–45 minutes.
If you’re unable to attend at that time, please coordinate an alternate meeting time via email, phone, or in person at our office.
Trek Balance Payment (in Cusco)
Any remaining trek balance must be paid at least 2 days before your trek to confirm your reservation.
We appreciate cash payments in USD or Peruvian soles at our Cusco office. You can withdraw both currencies from ATMs along Avenida El Sol.
If needed, we also accept payment by credit/debit card or PayPal, either online or in person. Please note: a 5% service fee applies for card and PayPal payments.
We do not accept checks or traveler’s checks.
Duffel Bag Policy
You will receive a Duffel Bag during the briefing. It will be carried by our porters or muleteers along the route and handed to you at each campsite.
Duffel Bag Size: 60 x 24 x 22 cm (23.6 x 9.45 x 8.66 in)
Max weight: 7 kg / 15.4 lb (including sleeping bag, pad, clothing, and other personal items)
Can I store my luggage during the trek?
Absolutely!
You can store your main luggage at our office (arranged during the briefing or via email), or at your hotel—free of charge.
Any items not needed on the trek can be safely stored at your hotel. Most hotels offer this service. We recommend placing valuable items in the hotel’s safe and requesting a detailed receipt—some travel insurance companies require this in the event of theft.
For peace of mind, seal valuables like credit cards in signed envelopes.
Hotel Pick-Up in Cusco
We can pick you up from your hotel as long as it’s located within Cusco’s Historic Center.
Pick-up time will be coordinated during the briefing, but please note it may vary by 30–45 minutes due to traffic.
Important: Cusco has many narrow, cobblestone streets. Some hotels or Airbnbs may be located on streets inaccessible to vehicles or on steep hills. We strongly recommend booking a hotel with easy access.
Group Travel on the Salkantay Trek
Our group tours are made up of people of various ages and fitness levels. By joining a group trek, you accept that some may walk faster or slower than you. Everyone is encouraged to hike at their own pace.
If a group wishes to modify the itinerary, any changes will be decided by the guide, in consultation with all participants.
Strikes and Protests in Peru
Strikes and protests are common in Peru and can sometimes affect travel plans. Roads and train tracks may be blocked.
If this happens, we will do everything possible to keep your tour running as planned, even if it means departing the night before your scheduled trek.
However, tours may be canceled in extreme cases. If this occurs, all changes or cancellations will be coordinated with you by our operations team. Your safety is our top priority, and we’ll make decisions accordingly.
Lost & Found
Please be mindful of your belongings. Be sure to collect all your items when leaving our transportation, tents, or restaurants.
You are solely responsible for your personal belongings during the trek.
