Group
12 people
5 Days
The Salkantay Trek 5 Days is one of the most spectacular trekking routes in Cusco and one of the best alternatives to the classic Inca Trail to Machu Picchu. This route crosses some of the most impressive landscapes of the Peruvian Andes, from imposing snow-capped mountains and turquoise glacial lagoons to lush cloud forests and high jungle areas. Along the way, travelers immerse themselves in a unique natural environment, surrounded by sacred peaks such as Nevado Salkantay, considered an “Apu” within the Andean worldview. A complete experience for those who wish to discover the natural essence of Peru before arriving at the Inca citadel.
The Circuit Salkantay Trek 5 Days is an adventure journey that begins in the high Andean valleys near Cusco and follows the impressive Salkantay Trail to Machu Picchu. Along the route, emblematic places are visited such as Humantay Lagoon, the imposing Salkantay Pass (4,650 m), the highest point of the trek, and diverse landscapes that gradually change from glaciers and Andean puna to cloud forests and coffee plantations in the high jungle. The experience includes scenic hikes, cultural interaction with local communities, nights in camps surrounded by nature, and the final arrival at the Historic Sanctuary of Machu Picchu, where a guided tour of the legendary Inca citadel takes place. The entire journey combines nature, culture, and adventure in one of the most complete and memorable hikes in Peru.
The Circuit begins with hotel pickup in Cusco between 4:30 and 5:00 a.m. heading to Mollepata to enjoy a typical breakfast. Then we continue to Challacancha, the starting point of the hike to Soraypampa, where lunch is served at the camp. In the afternoon, ascent to Humantay Lagoon (4,220 m) to admire its turquoise waters and views of the snow-capped Humantay and Salkantay; return to camp, dinner, and overnight in panoramic Sky Domes.
After breakfast, you will ascend to Salkantay Pass (4,650 m), the highest point of the trek, surrounded by imposing snow-capped mountains. After enjoying the panoramic views, descend to Wacracmachay for lunch and then continue hiking to Collpapampa, crossing landscapes that change from high mountains to cloud forest; dinner and overnight at the camp.
After breakfast, continue the hike through the cloud forest and high jungle for approximately 5 to 6 hours, surrounded by tropical vegetation, orchids, and coffee plantations. Before lunch, a coffee experiential Circuit takes place, learning the artisanal process from harvest to preparation. Arrival in Lucmabamba to set up camp, with the option to visit the Cocalmayo hot springs; dinner and rest.
This day you will depart early to ascend an ancient section of the Inca Trail to the archaeological complex of Llactapata (2,700 m), from where you get a panoramic view of Machu Picchu and Huayna Picchu. Then descend to Hydroelectric for lunch and walk along the railway to Aguas Calientes (or optional train). Arrival at the hotel, dinner at a local restaurant, and rest.
On the last day of the Circuit, you will hike or take the bus to the citadel of Machu Picchu, where you will enjoy sunrise and a guided tour of approximately 2 hours through temples, plazas, and Inca terraces. Free time to explore or optionally hike Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain. In the afternoon, return by train to Ollantaytambo and transfer by tourist transport back to Cusco.
The Salkantay Trek 5 Days is one of the most impressive hiking and Trekking in Cusco experiences in Peru. This alternative route to the Inca Trail takes you along the incredible Salkantay Trail to Machu Picchu, crossing high mountain landscapes, imposing glaciers, turquoise lagoons, and the transition into the Andean jungle, culminating at the Inca citadel of Machu Picchu.
Considered one of the best hikes in Peru, this Classic Salkantay Hike to Machu Picchu combines nature, culture, and adventure in a challenging yet rewarding journey.
Your Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu experience begins with pickup from your hotel in Cusco between 4:30 and 5:00 a.m. Then, you will begin a journey by tourist transport to Mollepata (approximately 2 hours), where you will enjoy a delicious breakfast. Afterward, you will purchase the entrance ticket to Humantay Lake before continuing by transport to Challacancha (3,800 m), the starting point of the hike.
From Challacancha, we will begin an ascending hike of approximately 3 hours to Soraypampa (3,900 m), where our first campsite is located. During the journey, you will enjoy panoramic views of the Salkantay snow-capped mountain, one of the most important mountains in the Andean worldview, considered an “Apu” or protective spirit.
Upon arrival at the campsite, you will enjoy a freshly prepared lunch by our cook, ideal for restoring energy after the first day of hiking.
In the afternoon, we will take an ascending hike of approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes to Humantay Lake (4,220 m). Its turquoise waters, formed by the melting of the Humantay glacier, make it one of the most impressive landscapes on the route.
From this point, you will also be able to appreciate the Salkantay snow-capped mountain, which reaches 6,271 m in altitude and is one of the highest in the region. The guide will provide information about the local history and the spiritual importance of these mountains for Andean communities. You will have time to explore the area, take photographs, and enjoy the natural surroundings.
We will return to Soraypampa to rest in comfortable panoramic Sky Domes, a comfortable experience that elevates the concept of traditional camping on the Salkantay Tour to Machu Picchu 5 days.
This first day of the Salkantay trek 5 days adventure to Machu Picchu combines high mountain landscapes, cultural contact, and an authentic experience of Hiking in Cusco, preparing you to continue the next day to the highest point of the route: the Salkantay Pass.
The day begins early at 5:00 a.m. with a cup of hot coca tea to continue the Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu. After breakfast, we will begin the ascent to the highest point of the entire route: the impressive Salkantay Pass (4,650 m).
The ascent lasts approximately 3 hours, surrounded by spectacular snow-capped mountains such as the majestic Salkantay Mountain, as well as Humantay, Tucarhuay, and Pumasillo Mountains. From the summit, you will enjoy incredible panoramic views and understand why this mountain is considered sacred in the Andean tradition.
Then we will begin the descent for 2 hours to Wacracmachay, where you will have lunch surrounded by mountain and snowy landscapes. From this point, the environment gradually changes to a greener and warmer area, marking the transition to the high jungle.
We will continue descending for approximately 3 hours to Collpapampa, our campsite with a milder climate and surrounded by abundant vegetation.
Upon arrival, we will enjoy the traditional tea time and a hot dinner prepared by our team, before resting in cozy huts to regain energy and continue this journey toward Machu Picchu.
The day begins with breakfast and we will continue this incredible Salkantay Trek 5 Days experience with a hike of approximately 5 to 6 hours through the cloud forest. At this stage, the landscape changes completely: we leave behind the cold and rocky mountains to enter a warmer, humid, and tropical area, characteristic of the Peruvian high jungle.
During the journey, you will observe abundant biodiversity: coffee plantations, wild orchids, and various medicinal plants used by local communities. This part of the Salkantay Trail to Machu Picchu offers an impressive natural contrast and allows you to enjoy a greener and more lush environment.
Before lunch, we will enjoy an authentic coffee tour experience, where you will learn the artisanal process from harvesting the beans to preparing a traditional cup. You will be able to participate in roasting and grinding, learning about the importance of coffee in the local economy.
Finally, we will arrive at Lucmabamba, where we will set up our campsite in the middle of the jungle, surrounded by nature and tranquility.
Optionally, you may visit the relaxing Cocalmayo hot springs (entrance not included), ideal for relieving muscles after the hike, or take an additional walk through a local coffee plantation. In the afternoon, you will enjoy the traditional tea time, followed by a freshly prepared dinner by our team.
Ancestral trail to the Inca citadel of Machu Picchu
The fourth day of the Salkantay Trek 5 Days begins very early, surrounded by tropical vegetation and the natural sounds of the high jungle. After breakfast, we will begin a gradual ascent of approximately 3 hours to the Llactapata archaeological complex (2,700 m), following an ancient section of the Inca trail that strategically connected with Machu Picchu.
As we gain altitude, the landscape opens up between forest-covered mountains and deep valleys crossed by the Urubamba River. Upon arrival at Llactapata you will experience one of the most special moments of the entire route: the first panoramic view of Machu Picchu, accompanied by the silhouette of the imposing Huayna Picchu in the background. From this unusual angle, the citadel can be appreciated in a more natural and less crowded environment, offering a unique perspective for photography and contemplation.
Our guide will explain the historical importance of Llactapata, its agricultural and ceremonial function, and its connection with the Inca road network that articulated access to Machu Picchu. This section of the route combines history, nature, and the excitement of getting closer and closer to the final destination.
Afterward, we will begin the descent along trails surrounded by abundant vegetation, passing the ancient Intihuatana, a ceremonial rock used by the Incas as a solar clock and ritual point. During the hike you will enjoy the tropical scenery and the constant sound of the Urubamba River accompanying the journey.
Upon arrival at the Hydroelectric you will enjoy lunch in a warmer jungle environment. From here you will have two options to reach the town of Aguas Calientes:
Upon arrival in Aguas Calientes you will check into a comfortable hotel. In the evening you will enjoy dinner at a local restaurant, ideal for resting and preparing for the visit to Machu Picchu the following day.
The final day of the Salkantay Trek 5 Days begins very early, around 4:30 a.m., while the mist still covers the mountains surrounding the historic sanctuary. After breakfast we will begin the ascent to Machu Picchu, walking approximately 1 hour along a trail surrounded by vegetation. There is also the option to take the bus up (not included) for greater comfort.
Upon entering the citadel we will head to the classic viewpoint, from where you will obtain the most iconic panoramic photograph of Machu Picchu, with its terraces and temples perfectly aligned among green mountains. This is one of the most anticipated moments of the journey, as you finally contemplate the goal achieved after several days of hiking.
We will take a guided tour of approximately 2 hours, exploring the main sectors: ceremonial plazas, sacred temples, agricultural terraces, and residential enclosures. The guide will explain the history, architecture, and spiritual importance of this masterpiece of Inca engineering, considered one of the wonders of the modern world.
After the tour you will have free time to explore at your own pace and absorb the energy of the place. Optionally, you may hike to:
Both mountains offer spectacular views and a different perspective of the citadel and the surrounding valley.
After the visit, you will descend to the town of Aguas Calientes, where you will have free time for lunch or to explore its quiet streets before the return.
At the indicated time you must arrive at the train station 30 minutes in advance (14:30 or 16:20 hrs, depending on your ticket). The train journey lasts approximately 2 hours to Ollantaytambo, where our driver will be waiting for the final transfer of approximately 1 hour to the city of Cusco.
This concludes this unforgettable experience along the Salkantay Trail to Machu Picchu, a journey that combines nature, culture, and adventure in the Peruvian Andes.
End of our services.
During the Salkantay Trek 5 days to Machu Picchu, everything is organized so you can enjoy a safe, comfortable, and well-planned experience on one of the best hikes in Peru. The package includes transportation, professional guide, accommodation in campsites and hotel, meals during the hike, and entrance to Machu Picchu.
We can also adapt meals for vegetarian or vegan diets with prior coordination. Please let us know in advance if you have specific preferences so we can plan ahead.
Although the tour includes most of the services necessary to complete the trekking, there are some additional expenses that are not included in the package.
Get ready for one of the most impressive hikes in the Peruvian Andes. During the Salkantay Trek 5 Days you will cross different ecosystems: from high mountains and glaciers at over 4,650 m above sea level, to cloud forest and high jungle near Machu Picchu. Temperatures can vary between –5 °C in high-altitude areas and up to 28 °C in the jungle, so bringing the right equipment is essential to enjoy the experience comfortably and safely.
The weather along the route can change quickly between intense cold, wind, strong sun, and light rain.
If you are planning to do the Salkantay Trek 5 Days to Machu Picchu in Cusco, Peru, it is normal to have questions before booking the tour. Below, we answer the most common concerns to help you prepare your adventure along one of the most impressive trekking routes in the Peruvian Andes.
The Salkantay Trek 5 Days to Machu Picchu takes place in the Cusco region, Peru, within the Peruvian Andes. The tour begins in the city of Cusco (3,400 m above sea level), from where you travel to Mollepata and Challacancha, located in the province of Anta, the starting point of the hike to Soraypampa, at the base of Nevado Salkantay.
The highest point of the route is the Salkantay Pass, located at 4,650 m above sea level, in the Vilcabamba mountain range in Cusco. This mountain pass is reached during day 2 of the trek, and offers panoramic views of Nevado Salkantay (6,271 m), one of the most important sacred mountains in the Peruvian Andes.
The Salkantay Trek 5 Days is considered to have a moderate to challenging difficulty level, due to long hiking days and the altitude exceeding 4,600 meters at the Salkantay Pass. The route crosses different ecosystems in Cusco, from Andean puna and glaciers to cloud forest and high jungle, so having good physical condition and basic mountain hiking experience is recommended.
The best time to do the Salkantay Trek in Cusco is during the dry season, between April and October. During these months there is less rain, clearer skies, and better views of the Salkantay and Humantay snow-capped mountains.
The rainy season occurs between November and March, when trails may be wetter, especially in the cloud forest area near Lucmabamba and Aguas Calientes.
Humantay Lake is located at 4,220 meters above sea level, in the district of Mollepata, province of Anta, Cusco region, Peru. This glacial lake lies at the base of Nevado Humantay, within the Vilcabamba mountain range, and is one of the most impressive landscapes of the first day of the Salkantay Trek.
During the Salkantay Trek 5 Days / 4 Nights, approximately 70 to 75 kilometers are covered from Challacancha (Cusco) to Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu Pueblo).
Daily distances vary between 12 km and 22 km, depending on the section of the itinerary.
Yes, it is recommended to stay at least 2 days in the city of Cusco (3,400 m above sea level) before starting the trek.
Acclimatization helps reduce the risk of altitude sickness, especially before reaching high areas such as Soraypampa (3,900 m) and the Salkantay Pass (4,650 m).
Accommodation along the route combines different experiences in the Cusco region:
The weather varies greatly due to the diversity of ecosystems along the route:
For this reason, wearing layered clothing is important.
Unlike the Inca Trail, the Salkantay Trek in Cusco does not require a limited government permit for the hike. However, it is mandatory to have an entrance ticket to Machu Picchu, which is generally included in the tour package.
Yes, at the end of the trek you may optionally hike:
Both mountains are located within the Historic Sanctuary of Machu Picchu in Cusco, Peru, and require advance reservation due to limited daily availability.
The Salkantay Trek in Cusco route is famous for its diversity of landscapes. During the journey you will observe:
Do not hesitate to give us a call. We are an expert team and we are happy to talk to you.
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