SUMMARY
Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu 5 days:
The Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu is the number one alternative to the Inca Trail. With high snow-capped mountains, lowland jungle and a visit to the Inca site of Llactapata, the trek offers a perfect mix of trekking, culture and nature. With fewer people on the route the Salkantay Trek allows you to enjoy the natural incredible beauty of the Andes without any of the distractions and disturbances you find on the Inca Trail.
Discover the Salkantay Trek: The Unforgettable Alternative to Machu Picchu
Embark on the Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu with our thrilling 5-day, 5-night tour, an epic journey that will take
you through stunning landscapes and connect you with Peru’s rich cultural heritage. Get ready for a unique adventure with these standout features:
Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu Tour Type :Comprehensive Adventure: Enjoy a perfect blend of trekking, cultural immersion, and adventure. Ideal for those seeking a complete and challenging experience.
Fitness Level :Moderate to Good: This tour is designed for adventurers with a good level of fitness. Prepare for
exciting challenges and breathtaking landscapes.
Difficulty :Challenging: The Salkantay Trek is known for its difficulty but also for its unparalleled beauty.
The route will challenge you but reward you with stunning views and memorable moments.
Season and Dates: Season: From March to January, when the trails are clear and the experience is optimal.
Temporary Closure: From January 10 to February 28, due to the rainy season, when conditions can be more difficult.
Special Considerations :Additional Excursions: Includes visits to the dazzling Humantay Lake, with its turquoise
waters, and Llatapata, a campsite with breathtaking views of Machu Picchu in the distance. Departure is in the
afternoon the day before the trek, extending your adventure to 5.5 days and 5 nights to make the most of the experience.
Why Choose the Salkantay Trek
Unmatched Alternative to the Inca Trail: If you’re looking for something different from the traditional Inca
Trail, the Salkantay Trek is a superior option. It offers a complete immersion in nature and history, surpassing even
its famous counterpart in terms of variety and landscape.
Highly Rated and Renowned Route: The Salkantay Trek is one of the most valued treks in Cusco, just behind
the famous Inca Trail. It’s the perfect way to experience ancient Inca routes while enjoying spectacular views and an
enriching cultural experience.
Pinnacle of Adventure: The trek’s highest point, Salkantay Pass at 4,700 meters above sea level, is one of the
highest and most thrilling spots. The view of the deep valleys and Cusco’s jungle from here is simply unmatched. An
experience that will make your journey unforgettable
Don’t miss the opportunity to explore one of Peru’s most stunning destinations! Prepare for an epic adventure with the Salkantay Trek.
ITINERARY
Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu 5 days:
Day 1:Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu – Cusco – Mollepata – Challacancha – Humantay Lake – Soraypampa (Glamping in Small Sky Dome)
Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu . We will collect you from your hotel between 4:30 a.m. and 5:00 a.m. to begin our journey, driving for approximately 2 and a half hours to Mollepata. Here, we will make a stop to enjoy breakfast before continuing on to Challacancha, where our hiking adventure begins.
As soon as we arrive at Challacancha, our dedicated cook and horseman will organize and pack all the camping equipment and cooking supplies. We will then embark on our hike. The initial 25 minutes will involve a slight uphill
climb to reach the Water Channel, where we’ll find a scenic spot with panoramic views of the stunning snow-capped mountains, including Humantay (4120m/13500ft) and Salkantay (6271m/20575ft) – just the beginning of our adventure!
We’ll kick off our Salkantay trek towards Soraypampa, our first camping site on the Salkantay Trek, situated at 3800m/11750ft. This is the highest and coldest campsite of the journey, and we’ll be in close proximity to the
second-highest snow-capped mountain in Cusco. After lunch, we’ll head to Humantay Lake, explore the area, and then descend to our superb Sky Lodge Dome campsite in Soraypampa.
Day 1:
- Total distance: 15 km (approx.)
- Estimated walking time: 7-8 hours
- Maximum altitude point: 3,800 m (approx.)
- Campsite altitude: 3,800 m (approx.)
Day 2:Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu – Soraypampa – Salkantay Pass – Huaracmachay – Chaullay (Glamping in Small Sky Dome)
After enjoying a hearty Salkantay Trek breakfast, we’ll start our hike at around 6:30 a.m. This day will be the longest of our journey, with the first 4 hours being an uphill climb to reach the highest point of the Salkantay Trek at 4650m/15200ft. This point is nestled between two massive mountains, Salkantay on the right and Tucarhuay on the
left. The views of these two snow-capped mountains from the pass are breathtaking, and there’s a chance of encountering snow here.
After a well-deserved rest, we will continue our hike, descending through a dramatic cloud forest towards Huayracpunku, where we will have our lunch. Following lunch, we’ll resume our trek in the direction of the jungle,
eventually arriving at our second Salkantay Trek camping spot, either Chaullay or Colcapampa, situated at an altitude of 3000m/9800ft.
Day 2:
- Total distance: 19 km (approx.)
- Estimated walking time: 8-9 hours
- Maximum altitude point: 4,650 m (approx.)
- Campsite altitude: 2,750 m (approx.)
Day 3: Salkantay Trek – Chaullay – Lluscamayo – Loreta La Playa Sahuayaco (Glamping in Small Sky Dome)
We kickstart the day with breakfast at 6:30 a.m. and set off on a journey through the upper jungle. Our path takes us across the Lluskamayo River and leads us through various small brooks. After about 6 hours of trekking, we will
reach La Playa, passing through lush valleys along the way. The trek offers magnificent views of waterfalls, tropical fruits, and diverse plant life. Once we arrive at La Playa, it will be time for lunch and a well-deserved rest.
(Optional: In the afternoon, you have the opportunity to visit the Colcalmayo hot springs at an additional cost, which can be arranged on-site.)
Day 3:
- Total distance: 16 km (approx.)
- Estimated walking time: 6-7 hours
- Maximum altitude point: 2,750 m (approx.)
- Campsite altitude: 1,600 m (approx.)
Day 4: Salkantay Trek – Loreta – Lucmabamba – Llactapata – Hidroelectrica – Aguas Calientes (Hotel) .
Our day begins with breakfast at 8 a.m., and we bid farewell to our campsite at Lluscamayo. We ascend along the original Inca Trail to the Llactapata site, where you’ll have a unique opportunity to catch a glimpse of Machu Picchu in the distance – one of the most breathtaking views of the iconic city. Our journey continues through various crop
plantations, including coca and banana, until we reach the hydroelectric station. After lunch, we trek for approximately two and a half hours along the train tracks, ultimately reaching the town of Aguas Calientes, where
we’ll spend the night in a hostel. In Aguas Calientes, you can unwind and enjoy the thermal springs in the town (entrance fee: 10 soles), a perfect way to relax after completing the Salkantay Trek.
Day 4:
- Total distance: 12 km (approx.)
- Estimated walking time: 5-6 hours
- Maximum altitude point: 1,600 m (approx.)
- Hostel (Aguas Calientes) altitude: 1,900 m (approx.)
Day 5: Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu – Aguas Calientes – Ollantaytambo – Cusco
This is a crucial day of the Salkantay Trek. We wake up early, around 4 a.m., to have breakfast and then embark on the trek to Machu Picchu. The hike takes approximately one and a half hours to reach Machu Picchu, but there is
also an option to catch the first bus departing at 5:30 a.m. (25-minute ride) to Machu Picchu, allowing you to witness the magnificent city as the sun rises. A guided tour (approximately 2 hours) will be conducted by your guide, after
which you’ll have the opportunity to explore the enigmatic city on your own. If you still have energy, you can even climb Huaynapicchu (2720m/8890ft), a 45-minute ascent. After enjoying Machu Picchu, you will descend to Aguas
Calientes to catch the train back to Ollantaytambo and then take a bus back to Cusco. Those returning by bus will need to walk from Machu Picchu to Hidroelectrica to catch the bus (you should be there between 2:30 p.m. and 3:00 p.m.).
Day 5:
- Total distance: 4 km (approx.)
- Estimated walking time: 1-2 hours
- Maximum altitude point: 2,700 m (approx.)
INCLUDED (NOT)
What’s Included in the 5-Day Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu
Here’s a detailed look at what you’ll receive when you embark on the 5-day Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu:
Machu Picchu Entry: Your trek package includes entry to Machu Picchu. Depending on availability, your ticket will grant access to Circuit 02, or we will arrange an alternative such as Circuit 01, 03, or 04 if needed. To ensure you have all the necessary information, please check the latest details and confirm your circuit options in advance.
Pre-Trek Orientation: To prepare you for the trek, attend our pre-departure briefing at 7:00 pm the evening before your trek starts. This briefing takes place at our Machu Picchu Reservations office. If you can’t attend in person, you can schedule a virtual briefing by contacting us at +51974217700. Please make arrangements at least 48 hours before the briefing to customize your session with your tour guide.
Duffle Bag Service: During the briefing, you’ll receive a duffle bag for packing up to 7 kilos of your personal items. This bag will be transported by horses throughout the trek, ensuring you can hike with just a daypack. Once you return to Cusco, you can leave the duffle bag at the Machu Picchu Reservations office for convenience.
Expert Guides: Our tours are led by certified bilingual guides (English and Spanish) who are licensed by the Peruvian government. These guides have completed their training through esteemed Peruvian universities or tourism institutes, ensuring expert knowledge and professional support throughout your journey.
Culinary Team: Our skilled chef and kitchen staff are dedicated to preparing nutritious and delicious meals along the trek. They are experienced in cooking in remote areas and can accommodate vegetarian, vegan, and other dietary preferences. Rest assured, your meals will be balanced and energizing.
Cooking Gear: We supply all necessary cooking equipment and utensils for meal preparation and serving. Our team ensures that these items are transported to each campsite, so you can enjoy your meals in comfort.
Muleteer and Horse Team: A dedicated team of muleteers and horses manages the transport of all equipment and personal luggage to the campsites. This includes food, camping gear, and your 7-kilo duffle bags. Their expertise ensures that everything is delivered on time and well-organized, even in challenging weather conditions.
Hotel Pick-Up: Begin your adventure with ease using our hotel pick-up service between 4:30 and 5:00 am. Our team will collect you directly from your Cusco hotel or Airbnb, allowing you to focus on the excitement of your trek.
Private Transport to Soraypampa: Enjoy a private, comfortable vehicle for transportation from Cusco to Soraypampa, the trek’s starting point. The journey takes about 3 hours and sets the stage for your trek with comfort and efficiency.
Meals and Snacks: Your tour includes 4 hearty lunches, 4 satisfying dinners, and 5 energizing breakfasts, along with morning teas and snacks at the camps. The first breakfast is also part of the package, all prepared to keep you well-nourished and ready for the trek.
Comfortable Accommodations: Experience diverse accommodations on the trek, including 2 nights in spacious panoramic cabins, a magical night in a glass dome, and a final cozy hostel stay in Aguas Calientes. Each camp offers spacious setups, usually for 2 people per tent to ensure privacy and comfort, but we can accommodate groups of up to 4 if needed. Each site is equipped with comfortable mattresses and pillows. Remember to bring or rent a sleeping bag for a restful night.
Hostel in Aguas Calientes: Enjoy a restful night in a well-appointed hostel in Aguas Calientes, the gateway to Machu Picchu. Our selected hostels offer private rooms with bathrooms, hot showers, and Wi-Fi, ensuring a comfortable stay before your visit to Machu Picchu.
Guided Machu Picchu Tour: Your package includes a 3-hour visit to Machu Picchu, featuring a comprehensive 2.5-hour guided tour by one of our expert guides. This tour will deepen your understanding of the site and its history, followed by 30 minutes of free time to explore on your own.
Return Trip Options: After visiting Machu Picchu, choose between two return options:
Train: Your train ticket is generally for 2:30 pm, 2:55 pm, or 3:20 pm. You can reach the train station by a one-hour walk or a $12 bus ride. After a scenic train ride to Ollantaytambo, a transfer will take you back to Cusco, arriving around 6:30 pm at Plaza Regocijo.
Car: For the car option, walk from Machu Picchu to the hydroelectric station starting no later than 11 am. This involves a 30-40 minute descent and a 1.5-2 hour flat section along train tracks. After catching the 3 pm car, expect a 6-7 hour drive back to Cusco, arriving around 10 pm at Plaza Regocijo.
Dietary Needs: We accommodate vegetarian, vegan, and other dietary restrictions at no additional cost. Please inform us of your dietary preferences when booking.
Emergency Preparedness: For your safety, each tour guide carries an oxygen bottle and a comprehensive first aid kit to address any emergencies that may arise during the trek.
What’s Not Included in the Salkantay Trek Package and Optional Costs
Here’s a breakdown of what’s not covered by the Salkantay Trek package, along with optional expenses that you may encounter during your adventure. These additional costs are typically managed by local providers and are standard across various trekking companies. Our aim is to provide you with comprehensive and transparent information.
Humantay Lagoon Entrance Fee: On the trek’s first day, you’ll visit Humantay Lagoon, which requires an entry fee. This fee supports the local community of Mollepata. The cost is 20 soles (about $6) for international visitors and 10 soles (around $3) for Peruvian citizens. This payment must be made in cash at the lagoon entrance.
Sleeping Bag Rental: If you don’t have an appropriate sleeping bag for the trek’s cold temperatures, you can rent one from us. Our sleeping bags are designed to handle temperatures as low as -10°C (14°F). The rental fee is $10 for the duration of the trek.
Trekking Poles Rental: Professional trekking poles can be rented to enhance your stability on uneven or steep terrain. The rental cost is $10 for the entire trek. These poles are adjustable and help optimize your trekking performance.
Drinking Water: While we provide water for hot and cold beverages at meal times, we do not cover the cost of bottled water. You can purchase mineral water at small shops along the trail for 5 to 12 soles per 2.5-liter bottle or bring your own water filtration system or purification tablets.
Santa Teresa Hot Springs: On the third day, you have the option to visit the Santa Teresa hot springs to unwind. If you choose to go, transportation from the campsite to the hot springs is available. The round-trip journey takes about one hour and costs around 40 soles, which covers both the transport and entry fee. Payment is made on-site.
Internet Access: There is no mobile signal from the start of the trek until reaching the second campsite. At this campsite, Wi-Fi is available for a fee of 10 soles. After the third day, you will generally have mobile coverage and internet access.
Showers and Toilets: Toilets are available at campsites without charge, but some local facilities may charge 1 sol for use. At the second camp, hot showers are available for 10 soles, while cold showers are free. Alternatively, you can visit the hot springs on the third day or use the hot showers at the Aguas Calientes hostel on the fourth day. Showers may not be available at the first camp due to cold weather conditions.
Tipping: Tipping is not included in your trek package and is at your discretion. While tips are appreciated by the staff, they are not compulsory. Please note that everyone at Machu Picchu Reservations is fairly compensated, often more so than other trekking companies with higher charges. Feel free to tip according to your satisfaction with the service received.
Travel Insurance: We do not provide travel insurance. We recommend purchasing a travel insurance policy in your home country, as obtaining one while in Peru can be challenging.
By keeping these optional costs and considerations in mind, you can better plan and budget for your Salkantay Trek adventure.