Salkantay Trek To Machu Picchu – Salkantay Trek 5D/4N
5 days - 4 nights
Moderate to Challenging
4,650 m.s.n.m.
The Salkantay trek to Machu Picchu will begin from Cusco in the morning. Next we can continue the classic Salkantay trail. We will walk through the high Andes valleys that are blessed with very pure rivers and natural paths. The climb to the amazing passes will be lit up by the snow-covered peaks, like the extremely strong Salkantay Mountain.
Warm jungle air will welcome us as we follow the trail along streams and tropical plantations. We can meet the local farmers, taste fresh fruits, and see how this route blends nature and culture. Each day of the Salkantay trek 5 days will show us new landscapes.
Finally, we will reach Aguas Calientes. The Machu Picchu Salkantay trek will soon be over. We will climb to watch a sunrise over the Inca citadel on our last morning. The ancient walls and terraces will share stories of history and spirituality. Such a trip will surely bring us beautiful memories and a strong bond with the nature of Peru.
Why Choose the Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu
Without question, a professional package is the ideal method of undertaking a Salkantay trek to Machu Picchu. Our Salkantay Machu Picchu Trek is a pure delight of Mother Nature, warm people, and the best of services to round off your trip in the Andes.
Here is why:
1. Experienced Local Guides with Deep Knowledge
Hundreds of Salkantay Trek 5-Day expeditions have been led by our guides. They understand every trail, viewpoint, and hidden corner of the Andes. They confirm your trek is both safe and educational. The history of this area awaits to be found by you.
2. Diverse Landscapes from Mountains to Jungle
On the Machu Picchu Salkantay Trek, you will be traveling through the Andes Mountains which are covered with snow. Along your journey, you’ll be able to view beautiful nature. There are the turquoise lakes, glaciers, and green cloud forests.
3. Comfort and Quality Throughout the Journey
With our Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu 5D/4N, you may indulge in top-notch camping and comfortable lodgings. We take care of your comfort so that you can relax and immerse yourself in the stunning nature of Peru.
4. Small Group Adventures for a Better Experience
In our opinion, the most excellent Salkantay Trek 5 Days trek is one that includes personalized care. This is the main reason why we impose restrictions on the number of people in our groups, so that you can establish a rapport with your guide. Move around as you wish and take in the thrilling experience of total immersion.
5. Sustainable and Responsible Travel
Our concern is to keep the earth green and also look out for the people living in the areas around the Salkantay trail to Machu Picchu. We ensure our practices are truly green and follow sustainable tourism in our trekking activities. That is a big part of the way the highlands are being kept safe.
6. Top-Rated by Travelers Worldwide
The Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu is frequently mentioned by our clients as their top trekking experience in Peru. Safety, service, and stunning routes have been the main points that this trek has received excellent commendations for. We take it as a great honor to be ranked as one of the most reliable brand names in the adventure travel sector.
Tour Highlights
- As part of your travel, your first stop is at the breathtaking Salkantay Pass.
- The second location we will visit is Humantay Lake.
- On the way to Machu Picchu, you will see green valleys, rainforests, and coffee plantations.
- You will get to know about Andean villages.
- You will be accompanied by an approved guide on your guided tour of Machu Picchu.
- Do not worry, there will be abundant room and food.
Tour Statistics
- Total Distance: 72 km
- Highest Altitude: 4,650 meters above sea level
- Lowest Altitude: 1,800 meters above sea level
- Route: Cusco – Soraypampa – Salkantay Pass – Chaullay – Lucmabamba – Llactapata – Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu
- Difficulty Level: Moderate to Challenging
- Itinerary
- Inclusions
- Inclusions
- Recommendations
Itinerary
Day 1: Cusco – Mollepata – Challacancha – Soraypampa – Humantay Lake – Camp
We will leave Cusco early in the morning, traveling through the Sacred Valley landscapes. Rolling hills and snow-capped peaks will frame our journey. In Mollepata, we will enjoy a traditional breakfast to start our adventure. A short drive will bring us to Challacancha, where our trekking path begins. This will be the onset of our Salkantay trek to Machu Picchu.
The trail will take us along an ancient Inca water canal. Crisp air and mountain silence will accompany our steps. We will see herds of llamas grazing in the highlands. Gradually, we will approach the wide plateau of Soraypampa.
At Soraypampa, we will set up camp at 3,850 meters above sea level. From here, we will hike to the turquoise Humantay Lake at 4,200 meters above sea level in our Machu Picchu Salkantay trek. Its glacier-fed waters will sparkle under the Andean sun. Snowy peaks will rise dramatically around us.
After exploring the lakeshore and capturing photos, we will descend back to camp. The sun will set behind the mountains, casting golden light. A warm dinner will await us in the dining tent. We will rest under a sky filled with stars to end our first day of the Salkantay trek 5 days.
Day’s Statistics:
- Distance: 12 km
- Highest Altitude: 4,200 meters above sea level
- Lowest Altitude: 3,850 meters above sea level
- Difficulty Level: Moderate
Day 2: Soraypampa – Salkantay Pass – Huayracmachay – Chaullay – Collpapampa
On the second day of our salkantay trek to Machu Picchu, we will wake before sunrise, surrounded by the silence of the mountains. The trail will climb steadily toward the Salkantay Pass. Towering glaciers will shine under the morning light. We will breathe deeply, feeling the thin air at high altitude.
At 4,650 meters, we will stand at the pass, the trek’s highest point. The view of Salkantay Mountain will be unforgettable. Sharp ridges and deep valleys will stretch into the horizon. We will take time to rest and appreciate the moment. This is an important moment in our Machu Picchu Salkantay trek.
Our descent will lead us toward Huayracmachay. Here, we will enjoy a hot lunch to regain energy. The landscapes will change from rocky slopes to lush vegetation.
We will continue through the cloud forest toward Collpapampa at 2,850 meters. Tropical flowers and waterfalls will surround us. The warmer air will signal the start of a new ecosystem. We will spend the night in a cozy campsite. This will conclude the second day of our Salkantay trek 5 days.
Day’s Statistics:
- Distance: 22 km
- Highest Altitude: 4,650 meters above sea level
- Lowest Altitude: 2,850 meters above sea level
- Difficulty Level: Challenging
Day 3: Collpapampa – La Playa – Lucmabamba – Jungle Domes
On the third day of our salkantay trek to Machu Picchu, we will wake to birdsong and the sound of flowing water. The path will follow the Salkantay River, crossing small bridges. Dense vegetation will hide colorful orchids and bromeliads. The air will feel warm and fragrant with jungle flowers.
We will pass small farming communities on the way to La Playa. Local families will greet us with smiles. Banana, avocado, and passion fruit trees will grow along the trail. We will enjoy short breaks to taste seasonal fruits.
From La Playa, we will continue to Lucmabamba. Here, we will learn about coffee production from local farmers. Freshly roasted coffee will fill the air with rich aromas. We will share a cup while hearing stories of the region.
Our night will be in comfortable jungle domes. The transparent panels will let us see the stars. The sounds of the rainforest will accompany our rest. Optional hot springs nearby will offer soothing relaxation, a perfect way to end the third day of our Machu Picchu Salkantay trek.
Day’s Statistics:
- Distance: 16 km
- Highest Altitude: 2,850 meters above sea level
- Lowest Altitude: 2,060 meters above sea level
- Difficulty Level: Moderate
Day 4: Lucmabamba – Llactapata – Aobamba – Hidroeléctrica – Aguas Calientes
We will start the fourth day of our salkantay trek to Machu Picchu by hiking an ancient Inca trail. The path will wind uphill through cloud forest and coffee plantations. The climb will lead us to Llactapata at 2,700 meters. From here, we will see Machu Picchu in the distance.
The archaeological site will reveal stone walls and terraces. We will explore its ruins and enjoy panoramic views of the mountains. The moment will be perfect for photos and quiet reflection.
We will descend into the Aobamba Valley. Tropical plants and small waterfalls will appear along the way. We will reach Hidroelectrica for a well-deserved lunch nearing the end of Machu Picchu Salkantay trek.
After lunch, we will follow the train tracks to Aguas Calientes. The walk will offer views of towering cliffs and dense jungle. We will sleep in a comfortable hotel, ready for Machu Picchu at the end of the fourth day of our Salkantay trek 5 days.
Day’s Statistics:
- Distance: 18 km
- Highest Altitude: 2,700 meters above sea level
- Lowest Altitude: 2,040 meters above sea level
- Difficulty Level: Moderate
Day 5: Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu – Ollantaytambo – Returning to Cusco
On the fifth day of our salkantay trek to Machu Picchu, we will start early, taking the bus up to Machu Picchu to witness the sunrise over the citadel. Our guide will lead us through temples, plazas, and terraces, sharing the history, engineering, and spiritual significance of the site.
We will have free time to explore on our own. Optional hikes to Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain will be available. The views from above will be breathtaking.
We will return to Aguas Calientes for lunch, then take the train to Ollantaytambo. Finally, a bus will bring us back to Cusco in the evening. Finally ending our beautiful and enriching Salkantay trek 5 days.
Day’s Statistics:
- Distance: 6 km (inside Machu Picchu)
- Highest Altitude: 2,430 meters above sea level
- Lowest Altitude: 2,040 meters above sea level
- Difficulty Level: Easy
Inclusions
The tour includes
- Professional bilingual guide (English/Spanish)
- Pre-departure briefing
- Hotel pick-up in Cusco
- Private transport Cusco – trek start point
- Entrance tickets to Machu Picchu and Salkantay
- Train ticket Aguas Calientes – Ollantaytambo
- Private transport Ollantaytambo – Cusco
- All meals during the trek (breakfasts, lunches, dinners)
- Cook and kitchen equipment
- Mules to carry gear and up to 7 kg per person (until Day 3)
- Camping equipment (tent, mattress, dining tent, tables, chairs)
- 2 nights camping, 1 night in lodge/local stay, 1 night hotel in Aguas Calientes
- Boiled water and hot water for washing
- First aid kit and oxygen
- Emergency horse
- Bus Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu (one way)
The tour does not include
- Sleeping bag (can be rented)
- Trekking poles (can be rented)
- Day 1 breakfast
- Day 5 lunch and dinner in Aguas Calientes/Cusco
- Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain ticket (optional)
- Hot springs entrance in Aguas Calientes (optional)
- Personal expenses (souvenirs, drinks, snacks outside meals)
- Travel insurance
- Tips for guides, cooks, and muleteers
Recommendations
- Original passport (and student ID if applicable for discount)
- Small daypack (20–30 L)
- Sleeping bag (down or synthetic, rated for cold nights)
- Trekking pole
- Comfortable trekking shoes/boots (water-resistant)
- Sandals or light shoes for campsites
- Warm clothing (fleece, thermal layers, down jacket)
- Light clothing for warm days
- Waterproof jacket and pants
- Hat and gloves (for cold mornings/nights)
- Sun hat or cap
- Sunglasses
- Sunscreen and lip balm with SPF
- Insect repellent
- Personal toiletries and small towel
- Refillable water bottle or hydration bladder (2–3 liters)
- Snacks (energy bars, nuts, chocolates)
- Flashlight or headlamp (with extra batteries)
- Camera or phone with power bank
- Swimsuit (for hot springs)
- Cash in Peruvian soles for extra expenses and tips
- Rain cover for backpack
- Lightweight plastic bags for wet or dirty clothes
FAQS:
1. How difficult is the Salkantay Trek?
It is a trek that is moderate to difficult. Users will be required to walk distances and travel to significant heights. If individuals are in a good fitness range they can do it.
2. Do I need to acclimatize before starting?
It would be better to have two days in Cusco before starting the trek. It is hard to get sick after doing this. Very helpful in trekking.
3. When is the best time of year to complete the trek?
The best time of year for this is from April to October. The weather will be clear and you won’t have to worry about rain and you will have great visibility of the mountains.
4. Are there any age restrictions to complete the trek?
There are no restrictions on age, however fitness and health are important. Trekker’s age range from teenagers to older, out door adventure type.
5. Are there vegetarian meal options?
Most trekking operators will have vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free meals, just inform them a couple of days prior to the trek so they can cater to your needs.
6. How is the luggage carried?
Your primary baggage that holds your bulkier and heavier gear will be carried by horses or mules. You just need to carry a day pack with the essentials such as water, snacks, and a jacket.
7. Can a sleeping bag or trekking poles be rented?
You can hire a sleeping bag, trekking poles or other gear in Cusco prior to the trek. It can be an expensive but comfortable option for budget travelers.
8. Do I need travel insurance?
Travel insurance is likely to be more vital than most people appreciate. As an added bonus, it will also cover you in case of medical emergencies, delays of the trip, and unexpected changes; thus enabling you to unwind while you are trekking.
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