Machu Picchu Salkantay Trail independently

Posted by Kasiafrod on Nov 14, 2015
Page Views: 203

Dates: Jan 1, 2016 through Jan 12, 2016
Location: Peru
City or Place: Departamento de Cusco
Skill Level: Intermediate
Categories: Hiking
Partner Status: Want Partners

Hi!

I am Kasia, a 28 year old backpacker form Poland. I have a gap year at work as a tax advisor. I am traveling around the US right now, and will be in Peru at the end of December.

After spending the New Year’s Eve in Cusco, I want to do a few day hike to Machu Picchu.
As I really like to hike a lot and I am looking for a budget options, I though about doing the Salcantay / Salkantay trail (5 days, quite high elevations - up to 4 600m, good stamina required) independently. It’s as beautiful as Inca Trail but does not have to be done with a guide.

I did a research online and it looks that many backpackers do it - it’s relatively easy to navigate (and I have a GPS), but requires good stamina and some hiking experience. There are detailed descriptions online if you want to check it.

Doing this trail with an agency costs around $ 235. Independently, it could be done 80-100$ cheaper = around 150$.
It requires some planning, but information is easily accessible and I’ve already done some research.

I would like to start the trekking around 3-7 January from Cusco.
I am looking for hiking companions. A group of 3-6 people would be great. We will have more fun and we could split the costs of transport and so on.

Please let me know if you are interested to join! My email address is: deedee150@poczta.onet.pl

Take care,
Kasia