Salkantay 5 Days
Experience the adventure of the Salkantay Trek in 5 days from Cusco to Machu Picchu
Experience the adventure of the Salkantay Trek in 5 days from Cusco to Machu Picchu
Embark on an epic 5-day adventure through the majestic Salkantay, one of the most spectacular routes to Machu Picchu. This extended trek allows you to explore diverse Andean landscapes — from glaciers and snow-capped peaks to lush valleys and cloud forests — while discovering turquoise lagoons and charming traditional villages. Each day offers breathtaking views, cultural encounters, and the chance to connect deeply with nature. The journey culminates in Aguas Calientes and a visit to the magnificent citadel of Machu Picchu, the perfect reward for this unforgettable adventure in the Peruvian Andes. Ideal for travelers seeking a challenging trek, stunning scenery, and a full authentic Andean experience.
Very early, around 4:00 a.m., we will do the pick-up from your hotel to head by private transport to the town of Mollepata, where we will enjoy a nutritious breakfast.
We will continue to Soraypampa, and from there start a hike to the spectacular Humantay Lagoon, one of the most impressive attractions on the route. After the visit, we will return to Soraypampa to share a lunch.
In the afternoon, we will move on to our first campsite at Salkantay Pampa, where we will enjoy a delicious dinner and spend the night surrounded by mountains.
Very early, at 5:30 a.m., we will start the day with a comforting coca tea before enjoying breakfast at the campsite at Salkantay Pampa.
Then we will begin the uphill hike to the impressive Salkantay Pass, the highest point of the trek, surrounded by glaciers and spectacular views of the sacred mountains. Afterwards, we will descend to Huayracmachay, where we will have lunch.
We will continue hiking through landscapes that descend toward the cloud forest, passing through Chaullay until reaching Colpa Pampa, our campsite for the day. There we will share dinner and rest surrounded by a unique natural environment.
At dawn, around 5:30 a.m., we will enjoy a revitalizing coca tea before having breakfast at the campsite at Colpa Pampa.
Then we will start a hike of approximately 5 hours descending through the cloud forest, passing through landscapes rich in flora, waterfalls, and rivers, until we reach an area known as La Playa.
We will continue to Lucmabamba, where we will enjoy lunch and have free time to visit the Cocalmayo hot springs and participate in a local gourmet coffee demonstration.
Finally, we will spend the night at the Lucmabamba campsite, sharing dinner and resting surrounded by the Andean jungle.
At 5:30 a.m. we will start the day with a revitalizing coca tea, then begin the hike uphill towards the archaeological site of Llactapata. The trek will take approximately 4 hours, offering spectacular panoramic views and a first distant glimpse of the Machu Picchu citadel.
Afterwards, we will descend for about 2 hours to the Hydroelectric Station, where we will enjoy lunch and have an emotional farewell to our trek chef.
From this point, we will continue with a 3-hour walk towards the town of Aguas Calientes, although there is the option to take the train (not included).
Finally, we will settle into the hotel in Aguas Calientes, where we will enjoy a delicious dinner and rest before the visit to Machu Picchu.
Our last day starts at 6:00 a.m. with a pick-up from the hotel in Aguas Calientes to head towards the bus station.
We will board the Consetur bus, which in a journey of approximately 30 minutes will take us to the entrance of the majestic Inca citadel of Machu Picchu.
There, we will enjoy a 3-hour guided tour through the main archaeological sectors, temples, ceremonial enclosures, and terraces, with time to marvel at this World Heritage Site.
After the visit, we will descend back to Aguas Calientes, where we will have free time for lunch (lunch not included).
In the afternoon, we will take the train to Ollantaytambo and then the bus transport back to the city of Cusco.
| Price | $850.00 |
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To make the most of your experience trekking to Machu Picchu via the Salkantay route, we suggest bringing the following:
For your Salkantay 5D/4N trek to Machu Picchu, remember to bring the following:
It is one of the most famous hikes to Machu Picchu, recognized by National Geographic as one of the 25 best routes in the world. It crosses high mountain landscapes, tropical jungle, and Andean villages.
The classic route lasts 5 days and 4 nights, hiking an average of 6 to 8 hours daily, arriving at Machu Picchu on the last day.
Yes, it is considered moderate to challenging. The highest pass is the Salkantay Pass at 4,650 meters (15,255 ft) above sea level. It is recommended to be in good physical condition and acclimatize in Cusco before starting.
It includes transportation from Cusco, full meals, campsites or lodges, horses for carrying gear, a professional bilingual guide, entrance fees, camping equipment, and the final visit to Machu Picchu.
It is not mandatory, but physical endurance and prior acclimatization are required. It is ideal for adventurous travelers who enjoy long mountain hikes.
The best season is from April to October (dry season). During the rainy season (November to March), trails can become slippery and the weather unpredictable.
It is recommended to bring thermal clothing, waterproof jacket, trekking boots, poles, hat, gloves, sunscreen, insect repellent, headlamp, light backpack, and reusable water bottle.
Yes, during the first days it is possible to rent horses to carry extra luggage or even to ride on the most demanding sections, at an additional cost.
Yes, a professional bilingual guide accompanies the entire hike, providing cultural, historical, and natural information about the route and Machu Picchu.
Yes, it is safe when done with an authorized agency. Guides are trained in first aid, and a first aid kit and emergency equipment are carried throughout the trek.
The agency requires a 50% deposit of the total cost of the contracted services. This deposit can be made through any of the authorized payment methods. The remaining balance must be paid 15 days before your arrival in Peru.
If you choose this option, please increase the deposit amount by $24 (bank commission). This is the fee our bank charges for each international transfer.
Accounts in US Dollars and Soles:
We accept all major credit and debit cards through our secure payment link system. A 5% commission will be applied to the total tour amount. You will receive a secure payment link from one of our representatives.
If you choose this option, please increase the deposit amount by $24 (bank commission).
We accept all major cards via payment link. A 5% commission applies to the total amount.
Calle Nueva Baja 585, Primer Piso Oficina 1,
Cusco, Cusco, Perú
📞 +51 968 163 793
✉ sales@vicunaexpeditions.com
Maximum Altitude: 4,650 m a.s.l. (Salkantay Pass)
Duration: 5 days / 4 nights
Group Size: Minimum 2 people
Physical Level: Moderate to challenging
Travel Style: Adventure / Nature / Hiking
Type of Accommodation: Camping and tourist hotel
