Salkantay Trek 5 Days Epic Journey to Machu Picchu
Location
Cusco, Peru
Trip Style
Multi-day trekking adventure
Daily Departure
Daily
Itinerary
Highlights: Salkantay & Huamantay mountains, glacial lakes, high-altitude camping
Your adventure begins at 5:00 AM with a hotel pickup and a scenic 3 1/2-hour drive to Soraypampa, where you’ll meet our experienced trekking team. After a briefing, we’ll start the challenging yet rewarding ascent to Humantay lagoon, then later you will return to started point, to go through the Salkantay Valley, reaching Salkantay Pampa (4,000 MASL) and later Suyrococha (4,200 MASL), where a delicious lunch awaits.
From here, we continue our climb to the highest point of the trek, the Salkantay Pass (4,652 MASL), where you’ll witness breathtaking views of the surrounding Andean peaks. After a short stop to soak in the scenery, we begin our descent to Wayracmachay, where we’ll set up camp for the night.
Highlights: Jungle landscapes, waterfalls, natural hot springs
After an energizing breakfast, we descend for about 4 hours towards Ccollapampa (2,700 MASL), where we’ll enjoy a well-earned lunch while surrounded by the stunning jungle scenery.
We then continue into the heart of the cloud forest, home to lush vegetation, orchids, and a variety of native trees. Along the way, you may take an optional dip in the relaxing hot springs before continuing for another 5–6 hours to our campsite at La Playa Sahuayaku (2,400 MASL).
Highlights: Coffee plantations, Inca trails, first views of Machu Picchu
After breakfast at 6:30 AM, we embark on a scenic hike through high jungle (Ceja de Selva), passing by tropical plantations of oranges, avocados, coffee, and papayas. Our journey takes us to Llactapata (2,700 MASL) via an ancient Inca Trail, offering a spectacular first glimpse of Machu Picchu in the distance, as well as panoramic views of Huayna Picchu.
Lunch will be served in an incredible spot overlooking the vast mountain ranges. The evening offers a peaceful retreat, with an opportunity for stargazing while our guide explains the Andean constellations. Enjoy our final night camping under the clear Andean sky.
Highlights: Waterfalls, Peruvian wildlife, arrival in Aguas Calientes
An early start at 6:00 AM sees us descending towards Hydroelectric, passing through spectacular waterfalls and lush canyon landscapes. Here, we take a short break before continuing along the scenic railway path towards Aguas Calientes. Along this route, keep an eye out for exotic bird species, including the Andean cock-of-the-rock, Peru’s national bird.
Upon arrival in Aguas Calientes, check in at your comfortable hotel, enjoy a well-deserved rest, and prepare for your grand visit to Machu Picchu the next day.
Highlights: Guided tour of Machu Picchu, return to Cusco
Our guide will meet you at your hotel then the bus to Machu Picchu, following the legendary road built by Hiram Bingham. Upon arrival, enjoy a 2-hour guided tour of this iconic archaeological wonder, exploring its ancient temples, terraces, and sacred sites. After your visit, you will board the train back to Ollantaytambo, followed by a private transfer to Cusco.
Include
- Door to door service
- Direct pick up from your hotel on day 1
- Comfortable tourist transport for all planned group transfers
- Professional guiding licensed, experienced mountain guide specialized in altitude trekking
- Machu Picchu Essentials, official entrance ticket to the Historic Sanctuary of Machu Picchu
- Bus tickets up and down for/to Machu Picchu
- Guided tour at Machu Picchu
- Mountain Logistic & Hydration, hot coca tea served at your tent every morning and safe bolied water provided daily at camps along with hot infusions options during meal service
- Trek Catering: Full buffet meals provided by our expedition cook: 4 breakfasts, 4 ,lunches, and 4 dinners (excludes final lunch and dinner)
Not Include
- Local Entry Fees & Permits:
Community environmental fee for Mollepata and Humantay Lake (S/ 20.00 PEN per person, paid locally)
- Optional Activities & Excursions:Entrance fee to the Cocalmayo Hot Springs in Santa Teresa, including local transport to/from the thermal pools
- Gear Rental Service:Cold-weather sleeping bag rental: USD $20 per person
Set of collapsible trekking poles: USD $15 per person
- Personal Expenses & Extra Logistics:Final day lunch and dinner after concluding the tour
Personal snacks, bottled beverages, and additional drinking water during active trekking hours
Backpack transport/mule support during the trek experience
Any transport adjustments or costs specific to shorter 4-day variations
Suggestions
The Layering System (Clothing & Athletic Apparel)
- Base Layers: 2-3 moisture-wicking, breathable athletic shirts. Quality is ideal for temperature regulation.
- Trekking Pants: 2 pairs of durable, quick-drying hiking trousers (convertible pants are great for the warmer lower valleys).
- Fleece/Thermal Layer: 1 warm fleece jacket or thick thermal top for cold mornings and campsite evenings.
- Outer Shell: 1 high-quality waterproof and windproof jacket (Gore-Tex or similar) and waterproof pants.
- Warmth Accessories: 1 warm beanie, 1 pair of thermal gloves, and a buff/neck gaiter for the high passes.
- Undergarments: 5 sets of breathable underwear and 4-5 pairs of specialized merino wool trekking socks to prevent blisters.
Footwear
- Trekking Boots: A sturdy, broken-in pair of waterproof hiking boots with good ankle support.
- Camp Shoes: Lightweight sneakers or durable sandals to let feet breathe at the campsite and for visiting the Cocalmayo Hot Springs.
Essential Trekking Gear
- Daypack: A 25-35 liter backpack with a waterproof rain cover for carrying daily essentials (since duffels/main packs are usually transported by mules until Day 4).
- Hydration System: Reusable water bottles or a CamelBak/hydration bladder (at least 2-liter capacity).
- Headlamp: Essential for navigating campsites at night and the early morning hike to Machu Picchu, plus extra batteries.
- Dry Bags: To organize and protect clothing and electronics from unpredictable rain.
Photography & Observation
- Camera Gear: The changing landscapes are highly photogenic. A reliable mobile camera setup paired with a dynamic stabilization system. such as a DG8/7 Pro, is excellent for capturing smooth trekking footage on uneven terrain.
- Binoculars: High-end, compact binoculars are highly recommended for spotting regional avian species and wildlife as the trail descends into the dense cloud forest canopy.
- Power: 1-2 high-capacity power banks (electricity is scarce at early campsites).
Health, Hygiene & Nutrition
- Trail Snacks: High-quality organic Andean superfoods, are perfect for sustained, lightweight energy during the challenging ascent.
- Sun Protection: SPF 50+ sunscreen, SPF lip balm, sunglasses with UV protection, and a wide-brimmed hat.
- Insect Repellent: High-DEET bug spray (crucial for Santa Teresa and Aguas Calientes).
- Personal First Aid: Blister plasters (moleskin), altitude medication, mild pain relievers, and any personal prescriptions.
- Hygiene Kit: Travel-sized toothbrush/paste, biodegradable wet wipes, natural hand sanitizer, and a quick-dry microfiber towel.
Documents & Money
- Original Passport: Absolutely mandatory for the Machu Picchu entrance checkpoint.
- Cash: Extra Peruvian Soles (small denominations) for the Mollepata/Humantay fees, optional tipping, hot springs, and unincluded meals or water along the trail.
Frequent Questions
The trek is challenging due to long hiking days and high altitude, but it’s achievable with proper preparation.
The highest point is Salkantay Pass at 4,652 meters (15,256 feet) above sea level.
No permit is required, but Machu Picchu entrance tickets must be booked in advance.
The dry season (April to October) is ideal for clear skies and better trail conditions.
Yes, acclimatizing in Cusco for at least two days before the trek is recommended.
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| # of Persons | Price Per Person |
| 2 persons | $480 USD pp |
| 3 persons | $460 USD pp |
| 4 persons | $440 USD pp |
| 5 + persons | $420 USD pp |
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| 6 +— | $3,400 USD |
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