Salkantay Trek To Machu Picchu – 5 Days / 4 Nights
Experience the ultimate adventure to Machu Picchu with our 5-day Salkantay Trek, a spectacular route that combines high mountains, rainforest, and Andean culture. This trek is ideal for those seeking a challenging, scenic, and authentic trek, far from the crowds of the Inca Trail.
From the breathtaking landscapes of the Andes to the high jungle and the iconic citadel of Machu Picchu, each day of the Salkantay Trek offers unforgettable experiences and moments of connection with Peruvian nature.Difficulty level: Moderate to Challenging (requires good physical condition and prior acclimatization).
Detailed Itinerary
Limited spaces: The Inca Trail sells out months in advance.
Tu aventura comienza muy temprano con traslado desde tu hotel en Cusco hacia Mollepata, y luego hacia Challacancha, punto de inicio del trekking.
La caminata inicial recorre valles andinos y paisajes abiertos, con vistas espectaculares hacia la cordillera. Llegando a Soraypampa, te instalas en campamentos con domos cómodos y estratégicos, donde disfrutarás de un almuerzo en plena naturaleza.
Por la tarde, realizamos la caminata hasta la impresionante Laguna Humantay (4,200 m), famosa por sus aguas turquesas de origen glaciar que contrastan con las montañas nevadas. Un lugar perfecto para fotos y para sentir la majestuosidad de los Andes.
Recomendación de altura:
Durante este día se alcanzan hasta 4,200 m. Se recomienda haber pasado 1–2 días en Cusco para aclimatarse, hidratarse constantemente y comunicar cualquier malestar al guía. Nuestro equipo cuenta con oxígeno y botiquín de primeros auxilios.
The most demanding and spectacular day. We begin with a gradual ascent to Salkantay Pass (4,650 m), the highest point of the trek. The high-mountain landscape, glaciers, and absolute silence create a breathtaking environment.
After enjoying the views of Nevado Salkantay, we descend to Huayracmachay and then to Collpapampa, where comfortable dome tents await you for rest and dinner.
This day marks the transition from the high mountains to the high jungle. We hike among rivers, waterfalls, and lush vegetation. The climate becomes warmer and more humid, and the biodiversity completely transforms the environment.
During the trek, you will have the opportunity to visit a traditional coffee farm, interact with local producers, and learn about the region’s culture.
We begin with an ascent along a section of the ancient Inca Trail to the archaeological site of Llaqtapata, from where you will have unique views of Machu Picchu.
Then we descend to the Hydroelectric Plant and hike to Aguas Calientes, where you will rest at a hotel.
Optional: Take the train from the Hydroelectric Plant to Aguas Calientes if you wish to avoid the hike (Not included).
Early in the morning, we ascend to the citadel of Machu Picchu for a 2–3 hour guided tour. Discover sacred temples, agricultural terraces, and ceremonial plazas as your guide shares the history and mysteries of this World Heritage Site.
Free time to explore, take photos, and soak up the magic of the place.
Optional: Hike Machu Picchu Mountain or Huayna Picchu (additional cost and subject to availability).
We conclude the trek with a return train ride to Cusco, taking unforgettable memories with you.
Includes & Not Include
Incluye
- Pre-trek briefing (1–2 days prior at 6:00 PM)
- Complete tourist transportation (Cusco – Challacancha / Ollantaytambo – Cusco)
- Official entrance fees to Machu Picchu and archaeological sites along the Salkantay Trek
- Certified bilingual professional guide (Spanish/English)
- 3 nights in comfortable dome tents + 1 night in a hotel in Aguas Calientes
- Full board during the trek: 4 breakfasts, 4 lunches, 4 dinners, and snacks
- Horses for transporting up to 7 kg of personal luggage per passenger. • Emergency horse
- Support staff: cook and porters
- Additional experiences: Humantay Lagoon and artisanal coffee in the high jungle
- Complementary transportation: bus down from Machu Picchu to Aguas Calientes and return train
- Safety: first aid kit and oxygen tank
No Incluye
- Breakfast on the first day
- Lunch on the last day in Aguas Calientes
- Entrance to Machu Picchu Mountain or Huayna Picchu (optional)
- Sleeping bag (rental available)
- Trekking poles (rental available)
- Train from Hidroeléctrica to Aguas Calientes (optional)
- Additional personal porter (optional)
- Travel insurance (recommended)
- Tips for the team (guide, cook, porters)
- Personal expenses
