Price

From$550

Booking Form

Enquiry Form

Save To Wish List

Tour Details

We will experience the breathtaking Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu, an unforgettable journey through the Cusco region. This 5 days Salkantay trek will lead us through stunning Andean landscapes, lush cloud forests, and ancient Inca paths. We will witness diverse ecosystems and breathtaking scenery at every step.

We will start from Cusco and travel to Soraypampa, the first campsite of the trek. Here, we will hike to the mesmerizing Humantay Lake, surrounded by snow-capped peaks. The next day, we will ascend toward the Salkantay Mountain, reaching the trek’s highest point at 4,650 meters. From there, we will descend into the cloud forest, where warmer temperatures and lush vegetation await.

We take a deeper journey into the high jungle, crossing rivers and passing through coffee plantations. We relax in natural hot springs before continuing to Santa Teresa, a small town surrounded by stunning scenery. The following day, we follow an ancient Inca path leading to Aguas Calientes, the gateway to Machu Picchu.

On the final day, we will wake up early to start visiting Machu Picchu, the breathtaking Inca citadel. We will explore its temples, terraces, and plazas while learning about its fascinating history. For those seeking more adventure, we will have the option to hike Machu Picchu Mountain for panoramic views. After exploring, we will return to Cusco, marking the end of this unforgettable Peru Salkantay trek.

Tour Statistics:

Total Distance: 72 km
Highest Altitude: 4,650 meters at Salkantay Pass
Lowest Altitude: 2,040 meters at Aguas Calientes
Route: Cusco – Soraypampa – Salkantay Pass – Cloud Forest – Santa Teresa – Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu
Difficulty Level: Moderate to challenging

Price Includes

Tourist bus from Cusco to Challacancha.
04 breakfasts, 04 lunches, and 04 dinners during the trek.
First aid equipment, including a medical kit and oxygen supply.
Complete camping equipment, including a kitchen tent, dining tent, and sleeping mats.
Pack horses to carry camping equipment and food supplies.
03 nights camping in scenic locations along the route.
01 night in a basic lodge in Aguas Calientes.
Bilingual professional guide for all 5 days of the trek.
Round-trip bus ticket from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu.
Return train ticket from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo and bus transfer to Cusco.
Entrance ticket to Machu Picchu, granting access to the Inca citadel.

Price Excludes

Sleeping bag (available for rent if needed).
First breakfast on the first day and last lunch on the final day.
Tips for guides, cooks, and horsemen.
Extra horse rental for personal belongings ($100 for 4 days, maximum weight 20 kg / 44 lbs).
Personal expenses such as snacks, drinks, or souvenirs.

Additional Information:

Student Discount: Passengers with a valid ISIC card receive a $20.00 discount.
Price Changes: Prices are subject to increases by PERU RAIL and INC.
Hotel Option: If using a hotel of your choice, a $13.00 discount applies.

Things

Passport (required for Machu Picchu entry).
Backpack (light and comfortable).
Sleeping bag (suitable for cold temperatures).
Clothing (warm layers, rain jacket, trekking pants, t-shirts).
Hiking boots (comfortable and waterproof).
Hat and gloves (for cold weather).
Sunglasses and sunscreen (high UV protection).
Reusable water bottle (or hydration pack).
Snacks (energy bars, dried fruit, nuts).
Personal toiletries (toothbrush, toothpaste, wet wipes).
Flashlight or headlamp (with extra batteries).
Insect repellent (for jungle areas).
Personal medications (if needed).
Duffle bags.
Cash (for small expenses and tips).

Prices

550USD

Itinerary

Day 1Cusco – Challacancha – Soraypampa – Humantay Lake

We will start our 5 days tour early in the morning, leaving Cusco and traveling to Challacancha. This scenic drive will take us through Andean valleys, villages, and farmlands. After a short stop for breakfast, we will continue to Soraypampa (3,900 meters sea level), where we will meet our trekking team.

After lunch, we will hike to Humantay Lake (4,200 meters sea level). The turquoise waters reflect the towering peaks, creating breathtaking views. We will have time to take photos and enjoy the tranquility before descending. Back at the campsite, we will enjoy dinner under the stars, surrounded by the majestic Salkantay Mountain.

Hiking Distance: 8 km (5 miles)
Highest Altitude: 4,200 m (13,780 ft)
Lowest Altitude: 3,900 m (12,795 ft)
Difficulty Level: Moderate

Day 2Soraypampa – Salkantay Pass – Huayracmachay – Chaullay

We will wake up early and enjoy a warm breakfast before starting the most challenging day. The trail will ascend toward Salkantay Pass (4,650 meters sea level), the highest point of the Salkantay trek to Machu Picchu. The cold air and dramatic landscapes will make the effort worthwhile. From the pass, we will admire Salkantay Mountain (6,271 meters sea level), the second-highest peak in the Cusco region.

After a short rest, we will descend to Huayracmachay, where we will have lunch with spectacular views of the mountains. The trail will then take us into the cloud forest, where warmer temperatures and lush greenery will welcome us. We will continue to Chaullay (2,900 meters sea level), our campsite for the night.

Hiking Distance: 22 km
Highest Altitude: 4,650 meters
Lowest Altitude: 2,900 meters
Difficulty Level: Challenging

Day 3Chaullay – La Playa – Santa Teresa

We will start trekking through the high jungle, following a trail lined with waterfalls, fruit plantations, and colorful orchids. The path will take us to La Playa (2,100 meters sea level), a small settlement where we will have lunch. Here, we will see coffee, banana, and avocado farms.

After a short rest, we will continue toward Santa Teresa (1,550 meters sea level), where we will have the option to visit Cocalmayo Hot Springs. These natural thermal baths offer the perfect place to relax after a long day of trekking. We will then enjoy dinner and rest at our accommodation.

Hiking Distance: 16 km
Highest Altitude: 2,900 meters
Lowest Altitude: 1,550 meters
Difficulty Level: Moderate

Day 4Santa Teresa – Hydroelectric – Aguas Calientes

After breakfast, we will follow an ancient Inca path toward Hidroelectrica (1,800 meters). Along the way, we will enjoy breathtaking views of Machu Picchu Mountain in the distance. The trail will then follow the railway leading to Aguas Calientes (2,040 meters).

Once we arrive, we will check into our hotel and enjoy lunch in town. In the afternoon, we will explore the lively streets of Aguas Calientes and visit the local hot springs. After dinner, we will rest early in preparation for the final day of the trek.

Hiking Distance: 14 km
Highest Altitude: 1,800 meters
Lowest Altitude: 2,040 meters
Difficulty Level: Easy

Day 5Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu – Cusco

We will wake up before sunrise and take the bus to Machu Picchu (2,430 meters). As we arrive, we will witness the first light illuminating the Inca citadel. A guided tour will take us through temples, terraces, and plazas, revealing the history of this incredible site.

After the tour, we will have free time to explore on our own. Those seeking adventure will have the option to hike Machu Picchu Mountain, offering panoramic views of the entire valley. In the afternoon, we will return to Aguas Calientes and take the train back to Cusco, concluding our unforgettable Peru Salkantay trek.

Hiking Distance: 4 km
Highest Altitude: 2,430 meters
Lowest Altitude: 2,040 meters
Difficulty Level: Moderate

Photos

Faq's

How difficult is the Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu?

The trek is moderate to challenging, with high-altitude hiking and steep sections. Proper acclimatization is recommended before starting.

Do we need prior trekking experience?

No, but good physical fitness is important. Training with hikes and cardio exercises will help prepare for the trek.

What is the highest point on the trek?

The highest point is Salkantay Pass (4,650 meters sea level), where we will see breathtaking mountain views.

Is altitude sickness a concern?

Yes, altitude sickness can affect some trekkers. We recommend acclimatizing in Cusco for at least two days before the trek and drinking coca tea to help with the adjustment.

What kind of accommodation is provided?

We will stay three nights in tents and one night in a basic lodge in Aguas Calientes before visiting Machu Picchu.

Are meals included?

Yes, all meals except the first breakfast and last lunch are included. Vegetarian and special dietary options are available.

Can we rent a sleeping bag?

Yes, sleeping bags are available for rent if you do not bring your own.

Will there be a place to charge devices?

Charging is available at some campsites and in Aguas Calientes. A power bank is recommended.

Do we need to carry all our gear?

No, horses will carry camping equipment and food. You only need to carry a small daypack with essentials.

What happens in case of an emergency?

Our guides carry first aid kits and oxygen. In serious cases, emergency evacuation will be arranged.

Can we visit Machu Picchu Mountain?

Yes, hiking Machu Picchu Mountain is optional. Tickets must be reserved in advance due to limited availability.

How do we return to Cusco after visiting Machu Picchu?

We will take a train from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo and then a bus to Cusco.

2 Reviews

Sort By:RatingDate

Sally R.

Solo Traveller

This trek exceeded all my expectations! The views of Salkantay Mountain were absolutely breathtaking. The camping sites were well organized, and the food was delicious.

Our guide was fantastic, sharing history and local traditions throughout the journey. Seeing Machu Picchu at sunrise was a magical moment I will never forget!

March 28, 2025

Louis J.

Solo Traveller

The Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu was the experience of a lifetime! Every day offered stunning landscapes, from snowy peaks to lush jungles. The guides were knowledgeable, friendly, and always made sure we were comfortable.

Reaching Machu Picchu after five days of trekking felt like a huge achievement. Highly recommend this tour!

March 21, 2025

Salkantay trek 5 days -Peru salkantay trek

Pay Safety With Us

Why Choose Us?