The 5-day Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu is a historic and secluded route nestled in the same region as the Inca Trail, where majestic snow-capped mountains harmonize with vibrant tropical rainforests.
Renowned as one of the premier treks worldwide, the Salkantay Trek unveils a tapestry of Peruvian landscapes, ranging from arid deserts and lush jungles to high mountain passes and crystalline blue lagoons.
This trek near Salkantay meanders close to towering, awe-inspiring snow-draped peaks, offering an immersive experience in untouched natural surroundings. Notably, it affords the opportunity to explore over 15 diverse ecosystems within the span of just 5 days. Moreover, the Salkantay Trek presents occasions for cultural and ethnic encounters, as local communities preserve and celebrate their traditions.
Group Size: Small, intimate groups limited to a maximum of 10 participants.
Day 1: Cusco – Mollepata – Soraypampa – Humantay Lake (L)(D)
Day 2: Soraypampa – Challway (B)(L)(D)
Day 3: Challway – La Playa – Lucmabamba (B)(L)(D)
Day 4: Lucmabamba – Llactapata – Hidroelectrica – Aguas Calientes
Day 5: Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu – Cusco (B)
The Classic Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu commences with an early departure from Cusco at approximately 4:30 am aboard our private van. Our destination is Mollepata town (2,900 meters), where we aim to arrive around 8:00 am. Upon arrival, we’ll take a short break for any last-minute supplies, a quick stretch, and restroom facilities. From there, we’ll continue our ascent in the private van to Challacancha, the starting point of our trek.
Upon reaching Challacancha, we’ll meet up with our support team, unload our equipment onto horses and mules, and begin our hike towards Soraypampa (3,900 m) by 9:00 am. Along this segment of the Salkantay trek, weather permitting, we’ll be treated to breathtaking panoramic views of the majestic Salkantay and Humantay mountains. Around midday, we’ll pause for a traditional Peruvian lunch. After lunch, our path will lead us further upward to Humantay Lake, renowned for its stunning turquoise waters nestled at the base of the glacier. Upon our return to camp, tents will be set up, and dinner will be served.
Accommodation: Campsite in Soraypampa
Today on our Salkantay trek, you’ll experience a remarkable transformation in nature, transitioning from rugged alpine landscapes to snow-capped peaks and tropical zones. After indulging in a hearty breakfast prepared by our local Salkantay trekking chef, we’ll embark on the most demanding section of the Salkantay trek to Machu Picchu. Our journey will commence around 7:00 am as we make our way towards Salkantay Pampa, then veer left towards the towering face of Salkantay. By midday, we’ll reach the apex of the trek at an altitude of 4,600 meters.
The vistas from this elevated point are simply breathtaking, offering views of not only the Salkantay glacier (6,264 m) but also the surrounding peaks and valleys below. Around 1:00 pm, we’ll pause for a well-deserved lunch at a site known as Wayraqmachay. Following a 3-hour hike, we’ll arrive at our campsite in Challway (2,920 m). Upon arrival, the Salkantay trekking team will have your tents set up and your duffel bags prepared. Later in the evening, we’ll unwind from the day’s trek and come together for a communal dinner at our camp in Challway.
Accommodation: Campsite in Challway
After enjoying a delicious homemade breakfast, you’ll begin the shortest yet most thrilling day of your Salkantay adventure. Today, you’ll have the chance to witness some of the most stunning views along the Salkantay trail to Machu Picchu. We’ll start our hike through the high-altitude forests, reaching Playa Sahuayaco near Collpabamba after about 5 hours, passing through a region known as the “eyebrow of the Amazon.” Here, you’ll encounter numerous waterfalls, fruit trees, and diverse flora and fauna.
With luck, we may spot the famous Andean bird, the “Cock of the Rocks,” adding to the day’s natural beauty. Once we reach Playa Sahuayaco, we’ll pause for a break and lunch.
In the afternoon, after a few more hours trekking downstream, we’ll reach Lucmabamba, our final campsite and the starting point of the Inca Trail to Llactapata.
Here, you’ll have the chance to visit a local organic coffee farm, exploring orange and avocado groves and tasting freshly brewed coffee. During your visit, you’ll learn about the area’s coffee history and its importance to the region.
Around 3 pm, we’ll take local transportation for a short half-hour ride to Cocalmayo, where you can relax in the natural hot springs.
Returning to camp, you’ll feel refreshed and ready for dinner, made with the fruits and vegetables harvested today.
Accommodation: Campsite in Lucmabamba
This morning, our Salkantay trek will involve a gentle climb lasting around 2 hours to reach the Llactapata archaeological site. This remarkable site holds historical connections to both Machu Picchu and Sayacmarka. After exploring Llactapata, we’ll descend towards the Hydro-Electrica station, which will take about 1.5 hours. From there, a relaxed 3-hour walk will take us to Aguas Calientes, where we’ll check in at our hotel for the night. Later, we’ll gather for a group dinner at one of the local restaurants in town.
Accommodation: Golden Sunrise Machu Picchu Hotel *** or similar
On the final day of our Salkantay trek to Machu Picchu, we’ll start early with a wake-up call around 5:00 am for breakfast.
We’ll then catch one of the first buses to Machu Picchu to avoid the main crowds and witness the citadel illuminated by the morning’s first light. Our guide will lead the day with a tour of the most significant sites, altars, and structures within Machu Picchu.
During the tour, you’ll learn about the history of this extraordinary place and the ancient civilizations that once thrived here. For those seeking more adventure after the past few days, this is the ideal opportunity to ascend either Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain.
Once you’ve finished exploring Machu Picchu to your satisfaction, a bus will take you back to Aguas Calientes for lunch. Afterward, we’ll board the train to Ollantaytambo and then continue our journey to Cusco in our private van, marking the conclusion of our Salkantay trek to Machu Picchu.
Included in the 5-Day Salkantay Trek Package:
Not Included:
What to Bring:
Essentials:
Extra Services (Available for Additional Fee):
Packing List:
Essentials:
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The 5-day Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu is a historic and secluded route nestled in the same region as the Inca Trail, where majestic snow-capped mountains harmonize with vibrant tropical rainforests. Renowned as one of the premier treks worldwide, the Salkantay Trek unveils a tapestry of Peruvian
