SALKANTAY TREKKING - DAY FIVE
SALKANTAY - DAY FIVE
Day 05: Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu
Essential Tips
- Wake up early: The early start allows you to beat the crowds and experience Machu Picchu in its serene morning beauty.
- Prepare for the weather: Bring sunscreen, a hat, and water, as it can get quite warm during the day. A light jacket is also handy for the cooler hours.
- Enjoy the moment: Take your time to truly absorb the magical atmosphere of Machu Picchu. It’s a moment to treasure.
- Capture the memories: Don’t forget your camera or phone to document this unforgettable experience, but also take some time to just enjoy the view without distractions.
- Plan your free time in Aguas Calientes: Whether it’s souvenir shopping or indulging in a delicious local meal, make the most of your last moments in this charming town.
- Stay hydrated and fueled: The descent and travel can be tiring, so keep snacks and water handy.
The grand finale of our Salkantay trek brought us to the awe-inspiring Machu Picchu, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. This day promised to be the most memorable and transformative of the entire journey.
We woke up early, filled with excitement, and enjoyed a quick breakfast. Before starting my hike to Machu Picchu, I came across a friendly local cat who seemed completely at ease and even posed for a few photos.
While my girlfriend took the bus for a scenic 30-minute ride to the entrance of Machu Picchu (2,430 meters / 7,972 feet), I opted to finish the journey on foot, hiking up the trail for an hour and a half to truly savor the final stretch of this incredible adventure.
While my girlfriend’s bus ride offered a scenic and relaxing journey, my hour-and-a-half hike was a challenging final stretch. After four days of trekking, the steep ascent pushed my already-tired legs to their limits. By the time I reached the entrance, exhaustion caught up with me, and I ended up taking a quick nap on a bench as I waited for her bus to arrive.
After meeting at the entrance and checking in, we began a guided tour through the ancient citadel.
For over two hours, we explored its remarkable structures, temples, and terraces, marveling at the ingenuity and artistry of the Incan civilization. Standing amidst the “Lost City of the Incas,” we felt a profound connection to history, nature, and ourselves—a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
Following our guided tour, we descended on foot back to Aguas Calientes (2,020 meters / 6,627 feet). Instead of rushing back to Cusco, we decided to stay one more night in this charming town, giving ourselves the chance to relax and celebrate the completion of our trek.
That evening, we visited the thermal baths of Aguas Calientes, letting the warm waters soothe our tired muscles. We then enjoyed a quiet night strolling through the town, savoring a delicious meal, and reminiscing about our journey.
The following day, refreshed and rejuvenated, we boarded the scenic train to Ollantaytambo (2,790 meters / 9,154 feet) and continued our transfer back to Cusco (3,350 meters / 10,991 feet), carrying with us unforgettable memories and a deep sense of accomplishment.
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