Tripadvisor
When planning your adventure to the iconic Machu Picchu via the Salkantay Trek, a common question is whether it’s necessary to carry cash on the Salkantay Trek. The short answer is yes. While there are points where cards are accepted, many small shops and services along the way only operate with cash. It’s advisable to have enough money to cover basic expenses like food, water, and potential emergencies.
Is it Necessary to Carry Cash during the Salkantay Trek?
Embarking on the Salkantay Trek 4 Days to Machu Picchu is an unforgettable experience, and like any journey, preparation is key. One of the main concerns travelers have is whether they should carry cash on the Salkantay Trek. Here’s why it’s important to consider this option.
Access to Basic Services
During the Salkantay Trek, you’ll come across small stalls and local shops where you can purchase food, drinks, and other essential supplies. Most of these rural businesses do not accept credit or debit cards due to lack of banking connectivity in the region. Therefore, having cash on the Salkantay Trek is crucial to cover these basic expenses.
Emergencies and Tips
In addition to daily expenses, it’s prudent to carry cash on the Salkantay Trek for emergencies. While they’re not wished for, situations like needing alternative transportation or medical services can arise unexpectedly. Likewise, it’s common to tip guides and porters who make your experience more comfortable and safe.
Trip Souvenirs
Finally, along the Salkantay Trek, you’ll encounter local artisans offering unique products as souvenirs. Buying these items not only enriches your travel experience but also supports the local economy. For these transactions, cash is usually the only accepted form of payment.
What Expenses Does the Salkantay Trek Package Cover and What Doesn’t?
When preparing for the Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu, it’s crucial to understand what’s included in your travel package and what additional expenses you might face. This will help you plan how much cash to carry on the Salkantay Trek 5 Days.
Expenses Covered by the Package
Tour packages for the Salkantay Trek generally include essential basic services for the hike. This typically encompasses transportation from Cusco to the trek starting point and back. Most packages also cover meals during the trek, accommodation in campsites or shelters, and services of experienced guides. Additionally, common camping equipment like tents and kitchen gear is included.
Expenses Not Covered by the Package
Although the packages are quite comprehensive, there are expenses not covered for which you’ll need cash on the Salkantay Trek. Snacks or extra beverages outside of main meals are usually not included, nor are bottled water or alcoholic drinks. It’s important to carry cash for these additional purchases. Additionally, entrance fees to certain protected areas or special attractions, such as hot springs, are not always included. Lastly, tips for guides and porters are optional but highly recommended as a token of appreciation for their hard work.
Where Can You Buy Supplies and Souvenirs During the Trek?
When embarking on the exciting journey of the Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu, it’s crucial to know where you can purchase supplies and souvenirs. While it’s essential to carry cash on the Salkantay Trek 6 Days, it’s also important to know the specific points where you can make use of it.
Purchase Points on the Route
Mollepata: Before starting the trek, Mollepata is a key stopping point where many adventurers purchase last-minute supplies. Here you can acquire snacks, water, and other essentials for the journey. It’s an ideal place to ensure you have everything you need before venturing into more remote areas.
Soraypampa: This campsite is another location where you can find small stores selling basics like drinks and snacks. It’s the last point before heading up to the higher passes, so it’s advisable to check your inventory and restock if necessary, always remembering to carry enough cash on the Salkantay Trek.
Aguas Calientes: At the end of the trek, you’ll reach Aguas Calientes, the closest town to Machu Picchu. Here you’ll find a wide variety of shops offering everything from souvenirs to clothing and trekking gear. Additionally, there are restaurants and cafes where you can rest and enjoy a hot meal.
Unique Souvenirs on the Route
Throughout the Salkantay Trek, you’ll also have the opportunity to purchase local crafts made by communities living in the mountains. These items are an excellent way to take home a memento of the journey and support the local economy. Remember that cash on the Salkantay Trek is essential for these transactions, as rural vendors usually do not accept cards.
Are There ATMs Near Machu Picchu?
A common concern for adventurers embarking on the Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu is the availability of ATMs to withdraw cash on the Salkantay Trek and its surroundings. Planning ahead is essential to avoid money-related setbacks.
ATM Locations
Aguas Calientes
Upon finishing the Salkantay Trek, you’ll arrive at Aguas Calientes, the closest town to Machu Picchu. Here you’ll find several ATMs available for tourists. These ATMs allow you to withdraw cash, primarily in the local currency, the Peruvian nuevo sol, and in some cases, in US dollars. However, it’s advisable to withdraw enough cash on the Salkantay Trek before arriving, as ATMs may run out of money due to high demand or may have lower withdrawal limits than usual.
Cusco
Before starting the trek, Cusco offers a wide network of ATMs at various points in the city. It’s a very practical option for obtaining cash before heading to more remote areas where banking facilities are limited.
Importance of Carrying Cash
Although there are ATMs in Aguas Calientes, it’s crucial to carry enough cash during the trek. Many of the small shops and services along the way only accept cash, and having it from the start of your adventure can help you handle any unexpected expenses without worry.
How Much Cash Should You Carry for Emergencies During the Trek?
Properly preparing for the Salkantay Trek includes planning expenses and considering how much cash on the Salkantay Trek is prudent to carry for emergencies. This is a crucial aspect to ensure a smooth and safe journey.
Financial Considerations for Emergencies
Alternative Transportation:
Sometimes, weather conditions or other unforeseen circumstances may require you to modify your route or need alternative transportation. It’s recommended to carry enough cash to cover an unexpected trip back to Cusco from different points of the trek. A reasonable amount for this purpose could range from 100 to 200 soles.
Emergency Medical Care:
Although no one wants to face a medical emergency, being prepared is essential. Carrying at least 300 soles in cash could be useful in case you need basic medications or minor treatment at local clinics, which generally require cash payment.
Extra Food and Supplies:
If your trek extends longer than expected for any reason, you’ll need additional funds for food and water. Setting aside around 150 extra soles for this purpose is a smart move.
General Recommendation
As a general rule, it’s suggested that each trekker carry at least 600 soles in cash for emergencies, ensuring you can handle unforeseen circumstances without financial difficulties. It’s always better to have a little more cash on the Salkantay Trek and not need it, than to find yourself in a situation where you need it and don’t have it.
Are Credit Cards Accepted at Sales Points During the Journey?
On your journey through the Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu, it’s important to know the payment options available at the different sales points you encounter along the route. Although technology advances, the availability to pay by credit card remains limited in remote areas.
Credit Card Situation on the Route
Sales Points in Remote Areas:
Most of the Salkantay Trek traverses areas that are beyond the reach of usual banking services. In these places, the infrastructure to support electronic payments is almost nonexistent, making carrying cash on the Salkantay Trek essential. Small shops and local vendors, where you might need to purchase food or drinks, generally only accept cash.
Aguas Calientes and Machu Picchu:
Upon reaching Aguas Calientes, the situation changes a bit. In this town and in facilities around Machu Picchu, it’s more common to find places that accept credit cards. However, it’s prudent not to rely entirely on cards, as some small shops and restaurants may still not accept them.
Practical Recommendations
Although major Peruvian cities and some tourist spots have good credit card acceptance, cash on the Salkantay Trek remains essential. To avoid inconveniences, it’s advisable to carry enough cash to cover all your expenses during the trekking days.
How to Handle Payments at Small Establishments and Local Communities?
When venturing on the Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu, you’ll interact with small establishments and local communities that have their own ways of handling financial transactions. Understanding how these payments work will allow you to enjoy your experience more smoothly.
Strategies for Handling Local Payments
Using Cash:
The most common and reliable way to make payments at small establishments along the Salkantay Trek is by using cash. Many local communities don’t have access to modern banking services, so cash on the Salkantay Trek is essential. Carrying enough Peruvian soles in small denominations will facilitate transactions, making it easier to pay for food, lodging, or souvenirs without complications.
Negotiation and Pricing:
In many rural communities, especially in market stalls or with street vendors, it’s common for prices to be negotiable. Having cash on the Salkantay Trek allows you to participate in these negotiations more effectively, as vendors prefer immediate cash payment over other forms of transaction.
Tips and Donations:
When visiting local communities and receiving services from local guides or porters, it’s customary to offer tips or donations. These small gestures of appreciation are highly valued and are usually made in cash. Carrying cash on the Salkantay Trek ensures you can properly thank those who make your journey more enjoyable.
General Recommendation
It’s always prudent to carry more cash than you anticipate needing, especially in small denominations for quick and simple payments. This not only avoids inconveniences but also allows you to support local economies that heavily rely on cash transactions.
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