Discover the Salkantay Trek 5 Days to Machu Picchu, an unforgettable hiking adventure through the Peruvian Andes. Starting from Cusco, explore the turquoise waters of Humantay Lake, cross the spectacular Salkantay Pass and experience breathtaking mountain landscapes. Continue through lush valleys before discovering the ancient Inca sites of Wiñay Wayna and Machu Picchu. This 5-day journey combines mountain trekking, natural beauty and remarkable Inca history.
Today we travel to Soraypampa, making a stop in Mollepata for breakfast. Then, we continue to the starting point of our hike, surrounded by mountains and snow-capped peaks. Upon reaching Humantay Lake, we will enjoy its turquoise waters and the stunning glacier. After taking photos and having lunch, we will descend to Soraypampa to camp.
Today, we will start our hike through the Salkantay Pass, then ascend to Salkantay Peak, where we will witness various mountains and snow-capped peaks. After exploring the area, we will descend to have lunch in Wayracmachay and finally continue to Chaullay, where we will have dinner and spend the night.
Today, we will take transport to Lucmabamba, from where we will hike to Llactapata for lunch. Then, we will descend toward Hidroeléctrica, walking past various coffee, banana, and avocado plantations before finally reaching Aguas Calientes.
Today, we will start by walking along the railway to Km 104, where our trail begins with a visit to Chachabamba. Gradually, we will ascend to Wiñaywayna and finally reach Inti Punku, from where we will have our first breathtaking view of Machu Picchu. After capturing unforgettable memories, we will descend to the Guardian's House and take the bus to Aguas Calientes.
Today, we will take the bus to Machu Picchu, where we will have a guided tour to explore the Sacred Plaza, the Temple of the Sun, the Temple of the Condor, the Intihuatana, and much more. After admiring the blend of nature and history, we will descend to Aguas Calientes to board the train to Ollantaytambo, followed by a bus ride back to Cusco.
Important information: Please bring your passport or a valid ID on the day of the tour. If your tour includes hotel pickup, please be ready at least 10 minutes before the scheduled time. Our team will contact you the day before the tour to confirm the exact pickup details.
Health and Safety: Some tours take place at high altitudes; therefore, we recommend that you stay hydrated and get plenty of rest if you are not yet acclimated. If you have any medical conditions, please consult your doctor before participating in the tour.
Local tips: Bring some cash in case you want to buy snacks, drinks, or souvenirs in the local communities during the tour.
We hope to show you the beauty and culture of the region. We hope you have an incredible adventure!
Passport
Cash
Mosquito repellent
Water bottle
Sunscreen
Hiking boots
Light shoes / sandals
Hiking pants
Warm jacket
Waterproof jacket
Sun hat
Sunglasses
Trekking poles
Small backpack
Camera / phone
Portable power bank
Energy bars
The Salkantay Trek 5 Days is a trekking adventure through the Peruvian Andes, combining Humantay Lake, Salkantay Pass, subtropical valleys, the Short Inca Trail, and Machu Picchu. This 5-day, 4-night itinerary offers spectacular mountain landscapes, archaeological sites, and authentic Andean experiences.
Day 1: Cusco, Mollepata, Soraypampa, and Humantay Lake. Day 2: Salkantay Pass and Chaullay. Day 3: Lucmabamba, Llactapata, Hidroeléctrica, and Aguas Calientes. Day 4: Short Inca Trail from Km 104, visiting Chachabamba, Wiñaywayna, and Inti Punku. Day 5: Guided tour of Machu Picchu and return to Cusco via Ollantaytambo.
The highest point of the 5-Day Salkantay Trek is Salkantay Pass, at approximately 4,600 meters (15,092 feet) above sea level. Humantay Lake is located at around 4,200 meters (13,780 feet). Spending time acclimatizing in Cusco before the trek is highly recommended.
The Salkantay Trek is considered moderately challenging, with some demanding sections due to the altitude and mountain terrain. The ascent to Salkantay Pass on day 2 is particularly challenging. Travelers should have reasonable physical fitness, appropriate trekking equipment, and preferably spend at least two days acclimatizing in Cusco.
The package includes 4 nights of accommodation: 2 nights of camping along the trekking route, in Soraypampa and Chaullay, and 2 nights at a hotel in Aguas Calientes. This combination allows travelers to experience the natural beauty of the Andes while enjoying comfortable accommodation before visiting Machu Picchu.
The itinerary includes breakfast, lunch, and dinner on days 1, 2, 3, and 4. On day 5, breakfast and lunch are included before returning to Cusco. Beverages with meals are not included unless otherwise specified.
Yes. On day 4, the itinerary follows the Short Inca Trail from Km 104, visiting Chachabamba, Wiñaywayna, and Inti Punku (Sun Gate), where travelers enjoy their first views of Machu Picchu. On day 5, the tour includes a guided visit to Machu Picchu before returning by train to Ollantaytambo and continuing to Cusco.
The Salkantay Trek 5 Days starts at USD 570 per person, based on two travelers. The package includes 2 nights of camping, 2 nights of hotel accommodation, meals according to the itinerary, a professional Spanish-speaking guide, and shared transportation. Travel insurance, beverages, optional tips, and domestic or international flights are not included. Please confirm entrance tickets and train services with our team before booking.
