en 
Salkantay Trek & Machu Picchu 5 days
Overview
Challenge the everyday with the Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu
world's most spectacular trekking routes with Machu Picchu Explorators . The Salkantay Trek offers a unique experience of adventure and comfort: high mountain landscapes, tropical valleys, ancient culture, and the impressive Inca citadel of Machu Picchu, all in a carefully designed 5-day trip.
From the majestic Salkantay Pass to the panoramic views of Llactapata , you will experience a complete journey through the heart of the Peruvian Andes, with restful nights in our exclusive Salka Glamp and cozy Andean huts.
Salkantay Trek Highlights
- One of the best hiking trails in Peru, ranked among the best in the world.
- Vistadome panoramic train , with skylights and comfortable seats.
Day 1: Cusco – Humantay Lagoon – Challacancha – Soraypampa
Distance: 16 km | Duration: 8 h | Maximum altitude: 4,200 m
- Early pick up at your hotel and transfer to the start of the trek .
- Hike to the impressive Humantay Lagoon .
- Free time for photos and connection with nature.
- Night in camp
Day 2: Soraypampa – Salkantay Pass – Wayra Punku – Chaullay
Distance: 18 km | Duration: 9 h | Maximum altitude: 4,630 m
- Hot tea or coffee served at your store.
- Crossing the Salkantay Pass , the highest point of the trek .
- Descent into the high jungle
- Night in camp
Day 3: Chaullay – Collpapampa – La Playa – Lucmabamba
Distance: 16 km | Duration: 8 h
- Hike through the exotic Cloud Forest , full of flora and fauna.
- Ascent along an ancient Inca trail to Llactapata , with one of the best views of Machu Picchu .
- Night in camp
Day 4: Lucmabamba – Llactapata – Hydroelectric Plant – Aguas
Calientes
Distance: 14 km | Duration: 6 h
- Spectacular sunrise in front of Machu Picchu.
- Descent towards the hydroelectric station and walk along the Urubamba River.
- Arrival in Aguas Calientes.
- Dinner at a restaurant and overnight stay at a 3- star hotel .
Day 5: Machu Picchu – Return to Cusco
Duration of visit: 4 h
- Depart on the first bus to see the sunrise at Machu Picchu.
- Guided tour of the most important sections of the Inca citadel.
- Free time to explore or climb Huayna Picchu (optional, with advance reservation).
- Return by Vistadome train + private transfer to your hotel in Cusco.
4:30 am – Pickup in Cusco: You'll depart early in the morning from your hotel in Cusco to begin this journey to the start of the trek . The first stop will be Mollepata, a picturesque Andean village located about two and a half hours from Cusco. During the journey, you'll enjoy spectacular views of the Andes Mountains.
Breakfast in Mollepata: We'll stop in Mollepata to enjoy a typical breakfast, energizing the entire group for the start of the hike. On the way to Challacancha : From Mollepata, we'll take a shuttle to Challacancha , where we'll officially begin the trek . Here, you'll meet the porters and muleteers who will carry all your gear and camping equipment.
Begin the trek to Soraypampa : The hike is moderate, with no steep inclines, allowing you to gradually acclimatize. Along the way, you'll pass through agricultural areas where locals grow crops like corn, potatoes, and quinoa. As you continue, you'll enjoy panoramic views of Nevado Salkantay and the imposing mountain landscape.
Arrival at Soraypampa : After about 3 hours of hiking, we'll arrive at the Soraypampa campsite , at an altitude of 3,920 m / 12,860 ft. It's a peaceful spot where you can enjoy views of Nevado Salkantay and rest a bit before continuing to Humantay Lake .
Humantay Lagoon : From Soraypampa , you'll make a one-hour ascent to the spectacular Humantay Lagoon , a turquoise lake surrounded by towering glaciers. Here you can take photos, enjoy the scenery, and, if you dare, dive into the crystal-clear waters (although it's quite chilly). The energy you feel here is indescribable, almost as if you were in a fairy tale.
Return to camp: After exploring the lagoon, we return to Soraypampa to spend the night in camp, surrounded by the tranquility of the mountains.
- Walking distance : 12 km
- Starting altitude : 3,350 m / 10,990 ft
- Camp altitude : 3,920 m / 12,860 ft
- Difficulty level : Moderate
- Accommodation : Campsites
Early breakfast in Soraypampa : Start the day with an energetic breakfast, as today you will face one of the most challenging stages of the trek . Ascent to Salkantay Pass : At 8:00 a.m., we leave Soraypampa to begin the ascent to Salkantay Pass , the highest point of the entire trek, at 4,630 meters. The two-hour hike to the pass is demanding, but the panoramic views of Nevado Salkantay and the snow-capped mountains make every step worthwhile.
At the Salkantay Pass : Once at the top, you'll enjoy a breathtaking view of the Salkantay Glacier . Here, the air is cold and the landscape looks like something out of a movie, with huge blocks of ice and snow crystals covering the rocks.
Descent to Wayra Punku: After taking some photos and enjoying the scenery, begin the descent to Wayra Punku, an area with beautiful views of the surrounding mountains. This section is more relaxing and allows you to enjoy nature at its best.
Continue to Chaullay : The day culminates with the descent to Chaullay , where the landscape changes to more lush vegetation typical of the cloud forest. You'll be surrounded by vibrant flora and the air will be warmer. The Chaullay camp , located at an altitude of 2,750 meters, will be your resting place for the night.
- Walking distance : 22 km
- Starting altitude : 3,920 m / 12,860 ft
- Maximum altitude : 4,630 m / 15,190 ft ( Salkantay Pass )
- Camp altitude : 2,750 m / 9,022 ft
- Difficulty level : Challenging
- Accommodation : Cabins, campsites
Breakfast and departure from Chaullay : This day is more relaxed, allowing you to enjoy the scenery more calmly. As you descend the path surrounded by orchids, the atmosphere becomes warmer and more tropical.
Hike to Lucmabamba : From Chaullay , you'll descend along a path surrounded by lush flora, passing small streams and waterfalls. This stretch is perfect for nature photography and enjoying the tranquility of the jungle.
Fruit Encounter: Along this stretch, you'll find wild fruits like banana, passion fruit, and avocado. Feed yourself with nature! Stops along the way allow you to enjoy a variety of fresh fruits.
Arrival in Lucmabamba : Today's final destination is Lucmabamba , a small town nestled in the jungle. Here, you'll rest in campsites and, if you wish, you can visit an organic coffee farm, where you'll learn about the cultivation process and taste fresh coffee.
- Walking distance : 18 km
- Starting altitude : 2,900 m / 9,514 ft
- Camp altitude : 2,400 m / 7,874 ft
- Difficulty level : Easy
- Accommodation : Campsites
On the way to Llactapata : This day marks a significant milestone, as you'll arrive at Llactapata , an Inca archaeological site. From here, you'll have your first panoramic view of Machu Picchu, which will fill you with emotion.
Descent to the Hydroelectric Plant: After exploring Llactapata , you'll take the trail to the Hydroelectric Plant. This 2-3-hour leisurely hike will take you alongside the train tracks, surrounded by abundant flora and fauna.
Arrival in Aguas Calientes: The day ends in Aguas Calientes, where you can relax in the town's famous hot springs. It's the perfect time to recharge before the final leg of the adventure.
Hotel Accommodation: You'll stay in a comfortable hotel in Aguas Calientes, where you can enjoy a restful night before exploring Machu Picchu the next day.
- Walking distance : 18 km
- Starting altitude : 2,400 m / 7,874 ft
- Camp Altitude : 2,000 m / 6,561 ft
- Difficulty level : Moderate to challenging
- Accommodation : Hotel in Aguas Calientes
Early breakfast and bus to Machu Picchu: You'll wake up early and take the first bus to Machu Picchu. The excitement will be palpable as you approach the citadel, leaving the jungle behind and entering the Inca world.
Guided tour of Machu Picchu: Upon arrival, an expert guide will lead you through the citadel's temples, palaces, and plazas. During the visit, you'll learn about the history, mystery, and beliefs of the Inca. You'll explore key areas such as the Temple of the Sun, the Intihuatana, and the Main Plaza.
Additional Options: If you have booked in advance, you can climb Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain, which offer even more spectacular views of the area.
Return to Aguas Calientes: After the visit, you'll take the bus back to Aguas Calientes, where you can rest and have lunch. Then, you'll board the scenic train to Ollantaytambo, and from there, a private shuttle will take you back to Cusco, arriving in the afternoon or evening.
- Altitude : 2,400 m / 7,874 ft
- Activity Duration : 2-3 hours of exploration
- Difficulty Level : Moderate to Challenging
- Pre-departure briefing to answer any questions you may have.
- Pickup and drop-off from and to your hotel in Cusco.
- All private transportation during the tour, including transfers to the start and end of the hike.
- Professional, bilingual, and certified tour guide to ensure an unforgettable experience.
- Return on the Vistadome or 360° panoramic train, with spectacular views.
- Official entrances to the Salkantay Trail and the Historical Sanctuary of Machu Picchu.
- All camping equipment transported by pack mules for your convenience.
- Experienced chef preparing all meals at camp using fresh, local ingredients.
- glamping tents .
- 1 night in a 3-star hotel in Aguas Calientes, with all the amenities.
- All meals included during the trek , except lunch on the last day.
- Water and healthy snacks available throughout the hike.
- Duffel bag to carry up to 7 kg (17 lb) of your personal belongings.
- First aid kit, satellite phones, and emergency oxygen equipment.
- Pillow, sleeping mat, and hand towels for added comfort.
- All taxes and official booking fees.
Not included:
- Sleeping bag, inflatable mattress and trekking poles (available for rent from us).
- Lunch on the last day in Aguas Calientes (we recommend trying the local cuisine).
- Entrance to Huayna Picchu (approximately USD $65, must be booked in advance).
- Entrance to Machu Picchu Mountain (approximately USD $65, must be booked in advance).
- Travel insurance (highly recommended for any adventure).
- Tips for staff (guides, cooks, porters).
The 5-day Salkantay Trek is one of the most exciting and challenging routes to Machu Picchu, known for its diverse landscapes. Throughout this journey, you'll experience a spectacular change in climate and scenery: from high snow-capped mountains to hot and humid tropical rainforests. This variety of conditions requires you to be well prepared, with the appropriate equipment to cope with both the cold of the high altitudes and the heat and humidity of the jungle.
Therefore, it's important to pack efficiently and carry only the essentials, ensuring a comfortable and safe experience throughout the trek. Personal backpack (recommended weight: 5 to 7 kg)
- Original passport (keep it in a waterproof cover or plastic bag to keep it dry).
- Rain poncho (also bring a waterproof jacket and cold-resistant gloves).
- Sunscreen to protect you from the intense sun at high altitudes.
- Toilet paper and small change for local restrooms (sometimes they charge admission).
- Insect repellent for the jungle and cloud forest areas, as well as long-sleeved clothing.
- Multiple jackets: one waterproof and one thermal/coat for cold mornings and evenings.
- Energy snacks : bars, chocolates, nuts or granola for long days.
- Reusable water bottle (minimum 2 liters), to keep you hydrated throughout the day.
- Headlamp or small flashlight (essential for moving around camp and bathrooms at night).
- A sun hat and a warm cap for the evening. Also, gloves for cold mornings.
- High-quality sunglasses to protect your eyes from the intense Andean sun.
- Extra money (we recommend approximately 600 soles or 200 USD) for emergencies, shopping, or tips.
- Personal medications: band-aids, painkillers, medications for altitude sickness ( Diamox ), stomach problems ( Pepto , Imodium ), motion sickness and feminine products.
- Camera or smartphone to capture the stunning landscapes.
Canvas bag for transport (maximum 7 kg)
This bag will hold the equipment that you do not need to carry in your daily backpack, and that will be transported by mules during the trek.
- Sleeping bag suitable for sub-zero temperatures (minimum -10°C). You can bring your own or rent one from Machu Picchu Explorators.
- Sturdy hiking boots (preferable to sneakers to protect your ankles and prevent injuries).
- Lightweight sandals for relaxing at camp after your hike.
- Socks: 6 pairs of wool for trekking and 5 light pairs for rest.
- Underwear: minimum 7 changes, consider bringing more in case they get wet.
- Breathable hiking pants: 3 or 4 pairs (evening/early morning sweatpants).
- Long-sleeved shirts: 7 units for sun and cold protection.
- Wet wipes, tissues, and a small towel for personal hygiene.
- Swimsuit optional, if you wish to visit the hot springs in Aguas Calientes.
- Trekking poles (you can bring your own or rent them from us).
- Sleeping Pad: We provide foam pads, but you can bring or rent an inflatable one for more comfort.
Important recommendations
- Remember that you can only carry 7 kg in your duffel bag and a maximum of 8 kg in your backpack during the hike.
- Leave the rest of your luggage safely at your hotel in Cusco.
- Temperature variation can be extreme, so be prepared for cold weather in the mornings and warm weather during the day.
- Wear comfortable, breathable, and quick-drying clothing for added comfort.
- Take care of your health with constant hydration and proper nutrition to cope with the altitude.
