Salkantay Trek 5 Days Epic Journey to Machu Picchu

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.