5-Day Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu from Cuzco
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Tour Overview
Highlights
- Trek the iconic Salkantay Trail through Peru's Andes, from snow-capped peaks to cloud forests and high jungle.
- Discover the turquoise waters of Humantay Lake and sleep under sparkling Andean night skies.
- Experience authentic Andean culture and diverse scenery on a small-group trekking adventure.
- Reach Machu Picchu for an expert-guided exploration of its temples, legends, and panoramic viewpoints.
Dates & Prices
Price in USD (per person)
Itinerary
Early Morning Departure & Mountain Drive
Your journey begins at dawn with a pickup from your hotel in Cusco. Board a tourist-class bus and watch as the city gives way to rolling highland landscapes. After 2 hours, pause in Mollepata (2,900m) for a chance to stretch, grab last-minute snacks, and soak in local village vibes.
Final Preparations in Challacancha
Continue your drive to Challacancha, where your trekking adventure officially begins. Here, guides double-check gear and ensure everyone is ready for the mountain.
Majestic Trek to Soraypampa Camp
Lace up for a 3-hour trek that winds through the stunning Peruvian highlands. Along the way, marvel at sweeping vistas and feel the thrill of approaching the dramatic white peaks of the Andes. Arrive at Soraypampa Camp (3,920m), your home for the night, just in time for a hearty lunch surrounded by panoramic mountain scenery.
Hiking Adventure to Humantay Lake
After lunch and a short rest, set out on a side trek to the turquoise jewel of Laguna Humantay. The hike takes about 1.5 hours each way, rewarding you with breathtaking alpine views and crystal-clear glacial waters. Capture postcard-perfect photos before descending back to camp.
First Night in the Andes
Savor a delicious dinner, then unwind at the highest and coldest campsite of your trip. Tuck into your sleeping bag for an early night, falling asleep under a sky shimmering with stars.
Mollepata, Peru
Soraypampa, Peru
Humantay Lake
Early Start with Mountain Views
Fuel up with a hearty breakfast in camp, surrounded by crisp Andean air. Today’s challenge awaits!
Ascend to the Legendary Salkantay Pass
Begin a 4-hour trek to the highest point on the route: Salkantay Pass (4,650m). Flanked by the awe-inspiring snowy giants, Salkantay (6,267m) and Humantay (5,900m), every step offers jaw-dropping vistas. For those seeking a gentler ascent, horses are available for rent.
Pause, Reflect, and Capture the Vista
Stand atop the pass, maybe even among patches of snow, and soak in the panoramic mountain majesty—a highlight of the trek!
Descent into Changing Landscapes
Descend for two hours, entering a world where glaciers give way to greener slopes. Arrive at Huayracpampa for a well-deserved, energizing lunch.
Journey into the High Jungle
The path transforms as you trek for another three hours towards Challhuay or Colcapampa. Experience firsthand the transition into the rich biodiversity of the high jungle, settling at camp (2,900m) ready for a restful night.
Colcapampa, Peru
Jungle Trek and Waterfall Wonders
After an energizing breakfast, set off through the upper jungle’s winding pathways. Cross the Santa Teresa River and little brooks as you travel through vibrant valleys. Along the way, savor breathtaking views of tumbling waterfalls and lush tropical trees laden with fruit—nature’s rewards for the intrepid traveler.
Lunch Among the Greenery
Pause midday at the charming La Playa (2,200m). Refuel with a delicious lunch surrounded by the soothing sights and sounds of the jungle.
Arrival in Santa Teresa Town
Continue your adventure with a scenic drive to Santa Teresa town (1,700m). Arrive at your comfortable camp and settle in, enjoying the change to a warmer climate.
Optional Hot Springs Retreat
After your well-earned rest, opt for a visit to the rejuvenating Santa Teresa hot springs (extra cost). Immerse yourself in blissful, steaming waters—a perfect way to end your day of trekking and reward your journey-worn muscles.
Santa Teresa, Peru
Santa Teresa Hot Spring
Morning Trek through Cloud Forest
Fuel up with a hearty mountain breakfast in Santa Teresa at 8:00 am. Embark on a picturesque, three-hour journey through lush cloud forest trails, passing vibrant flora and the distant roar of the river below.
Arriving at the Hydroelectric Station
Reach the hydroelectric station after your invigorating trek. Enjoy a nourishing box lunch amid the hum of local activity and surrounding jungle, recharging for the final stretch.
Heading to Aguas Calientes
Continue your adventure with a gentle three-hour walk along a scenic path beside the tracks, with Machu Picchu looming above. Feeling tired? Opt for a quick train ride at your own expense for a different viewpoint of the valley!
Evening in Town
Unwind in charming Aguas Calientes, surrounded by mountains and hot springs. Relax, explore, and treat yourself to a delicious dinner at a traditional local restaurant as anticipation for Machu Picchu builds.
Santa Teresa, Peru
Machupicchu Hydroelectric Power Station
Aguas Calientes, Peru
Dawn at the Lost City
05:30 am - Catch one of the first buses to iconic Machu Picchu, watching the mystical city appear as the morning mist lifts.
Guided Exploration
Enjoy a 2-hour expert-guided tour revealing Machu Picchu's legends, hidden temples, and breathtaking panoramic viewpoints.
Choose Your Adventure
After your tour, explore at your own pace or, if you've booked ahead, tackle the exhilarating Huayna Picchu Peak hike for birds-eye vistas.
Return Journey
Take the bus back down to Aguas Calientes, then board the scenic train winding through the Andes to Ollantaytambo. Continue by bus to Cusco, arriving at Plaza San Francisco around 6:30 pm, where your magical day in the Sacred Valley ends.
Machu Picchu, Peru
Machu Picchu Guided Tour
Huayna Picchu Peak Hike
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a guide provided for the Salkantay Trek?
Yes, a professional, bilingual trekking guide accompanies the group, providing assistance, information, and ensuring safety throughout the trek.
What is the Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu?
The Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu is a 5-day, 4-night adventurous hiking and trekking tour through the Peruvian Andes, culminating at the iconic Machu Picchu.
How difficult is the Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu?
The Salkantay Trek is rated as a moderately difficult hike, with varying terrains and significant altitude changes, requiring a reasonable level of fitness and endurance.
How many hours per day will we be walking on the Salkantay Trek?
On average, expect to walk between 6 to 8 hours daily, covering distances of 10 to 22 km (6 to 14 miles) depending on the day’s specific itinerary.
Is travel insurance necessary for the Salkantay Trek?
Yes, travel insurance is mandatory for all our tours, including the Salkantay Trek, covering health, accidents, and emergency evacuations.
What kind of accommodation is provided on the Salkantay Trek?
Accommodations include camping in tents at designated campsites for the first three nights and a hostel in Aguas Calientes on the fourth night.
What sustainability practices are followed on the Salkantay Trek?
The tour promotes sustainable tourism through waste management practices, minimizing plastic use, respecting local cultures, and preserving natural resources.
Are there altitude sickness concerns on the Salkantay Trek?
Yes, the trek ascends to high altitudes; acclimatization days, hydration, and medication like Diamox can help mitigate altitude sickness. Consult with a healthcare provider beforehand.
What should I pack for the Salkantay Trek?
Essential items include a good quality hiking backpack, sturdy hiking boots, weather-appropriate clothing, a sleeping bag, a first aid kit, and personal hygiene products.
Are meals included during the Salkantay Trek?
Yes, the tour includes breakfast, lunch, and dinner for the first four days, with meals prepared by trail cooks and using locally sourced ingredients.
Can dietary restrictions and food allergies be accommodated?
Yes, we accommodate dietary restrictions and food allergies with advance notice; please inform us during the booking process.
What is the best time of year to undertake the Salkantay Trek?
The best time to trek is during the dry season from May to September, when weather conditions are most favorable for hiking.
Are there any age restrictions for the Salkantay Trek?
The trek is generally suitable for participants aged 12 and above, provided they are in good health and physically fit for strenuous activity.
Departure & Return
| Location | Address | Departure |
|---|---|---|
| Cusco, CUS | Remark:The day before your departure date | 7:00pm |
- There is a mandatory pre-departure briefing at our Cuzco Headquarters one day prior to departure at 5pm, 6pm or 7pm depending on your trek. You will receive detailed information on your excursion, a list of what to bring and confirm your departure details.
- PRE-DEPARTURE CHECK-IN: Please make sure to check-in with your passport before your pre-departure briefing. We encourage our travellers to check-in at our offices a couple of hours before or any day prior to the briefing , that way we can give everybody personal attention and information regarding booking extras, rental equipment or questions in general.
- Time schedule for meetings will be:
- Inca Trail and Lares 6pm
- Salkantay, Inca Quarry, Machu Picchu Jungle, Ausangate, Choquequirao 7pm
- Inca Trail Express, Rainbow Mountain, Machu Picchu by Train, Sacred Valley to Machu Picchu, Machu Picchu Full Day 5pm
Includes & Excludes
Price Includes
Price Excludes
Additional Notes
Know before you go
Optional Hike:Hike Huayna Picchu for stunning views. Advance ticket purchase (2 weeks ahead) required.Note: Email us for tickets. Extra night in Aguas Calientes available upon request.
Meals on the TrekFresh, delicious meals with vegetarian options (request 2 days in advance).
Breakfasts:
- Porridge, quinoa, oats
- Eggs, pancakes
- Bread, bananas
- Hot drinks
- First Course: Soups, stuffed avocado/potatoes
- Second Course: Chicken, beef, quinoa, rice, spaghetti, Peruvian dishes
- Desserts: Plantains, pudding, cakes
- Snacks: Hot drinks, popcorn, cookies, crackers
Discovered by Hiram Bingham in 1911. Key spots: Funerary Rock Hut, Sacred Plaza, Inca Drawbridge, Inti Punku.
Accommodation:
Days 1-3: Single travelers share tents; couples have private tents.
Day 4: Single travelers share rooms; couples have private rooms.
Hike Requirements:Good physical condition required. Expect temperature changes from 4000m to 2000m.
Packing List: hiking gear, warm clothing, sun protection, flashlight, camera, extra batteries, waterproof bags, sanitizer, first aid kit, cash, swimsuit for hot springs (extra cost).
Essentials: Passport, visa, insurance card, medicationsPre-Departure Briefing for Inca Trail Trek
Date and Time: The day before your trek at 19:00. Location: Bamba Travel, Calle Matara 242, Second Floor, Cuzco, Peru. Check-In: Please check in with your passport a few hours or days before the briefing. This ensures we know you’ve arrived safely and allows us to offer individualized attention.
Accommodation Options:
Single travelers share a tent with the same sex. Couples get a private tent.
Essential Items to Bring:
Original passport, visa (if needed), insurance card, personal medications. If you renewed your passport, bring the old one or a photocopy.
Additional Information:
A guide will accompany you during the trek and the Machu Picchu tour.
Bus and train transfers are unguided.
Optional extra night in Aguas Calientes town available upon request.
Policies
The purchase of any travel services represents your acceptance Terms & Conditions set out herein. Please ensure that you read carefully and understand these Terms & Conditions prior to booking.
Q & A
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