Classic Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu – 5D/4N
The 5-Day Salkantay Trek is an epic journey through the Peruvian Andes that combines adventure, nature, and culture. This alternative route to the Inca Trail takes you from the glaciers of the majestic Salkantay Mountain to the lush tropical valleys of the high jungle, culminating in a visit to the citadel of Machu Picchu. Along the way, you’ll enjoy breathtaking landscapes, from Humantay Lagoon and the Salkantay Pass at 4,650 meters (15,256 feet) to the warm rainforest of Cusco. It’s a challenging yet unforgettable experience, ideal for adventurous travelers seeking an authentic connection with nature and the Inca legacy.
Classic Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu – 5D/4N
5 Days / 4 Nights
LOCATION:
Cusco – Machu Picchu
AVAILABILITY:
Every day
PHYSICAL FITNESS LEVEL:
Challenging
MAX. ALTITUDE:
4,650 m.a.s.l.
Trip Details
Day 1: Cusco – Mollepata – Challacancha – Soraypampa – Humantay Lake
- Hotel pick-up and transfer to Mollepata for breakfast and last-minute supplies.
- We continue by transport to Challacancha (3,675 m), the starting point of the trek.
- Hike of about 3 hours to Soraypampa (3,900 m) with views of the snow-capped Salkantay.
- Ascent to the stunning Humantay Lake (4,200 m), with time to explore and take photos.
- Return to camp, dinner and overnight in Soraypampa.
Day 2: Soraypampa – Salkantay Pass – Huayracmachay – Chawllay
- Early breakfast and ascent to the highest point of the trek: the Salkantay Pass (4,650 m).
- Andean ceremony honoring the mountains and spectacular views of the glacier.
- Descent to Huayracmachay (3,850 m) for lunch.
- About 3 more hours of hiking to Chawllay (2,900 m), on the edge of the cloud forest.
- Dinner and overnight at camp surrounded by nature.
Day 3: Chawllay – Sahuayaco – Santa Teresa
- Hike through fruit, flower and coffee plantations with abundant tropical vegetation.
- Arrival in Sahuayaco for lunch and rest.
- Transfer by vehicle to Santa Teresa (1,550 m), where we camp.
- Option to visit the Cocalmayo hot springs (not included).
Day 4: Santa Teresa – Hydroelectric – Aguas Calientes
- Breakfast and the option to go ziplining (optional activity).
- Two-hour hike to Hydroelectric, enjoying the jungle scenery.
- We continue on foot along the railway for about 3 hours to Aguas Calientes (2,040 m).
- Dinner at a local restaurant and overnight at a hotel.
Day 5: Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu – Cusco
- Early morning bus to Machu Picchu, the jewel of the Andes.
- Guided tour of about 2 hours through the main areas of the citadel.
- Free time to explore or climb Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain (optional).
- Return to Aguas Calientes, train to Ollantaytambo and final transfer to Cusco.
Included
- Transport Cusco – Mollepata and return from Ollantaytambo to Cusco.
- Professional bilingual guide specialized in high-altitude trekking.
- Salkantay and Machu Picchu entrance tickets.
- Full meals: 4 breakfasts, 5 lunches, 4 dinners and snacks.
- Camping equipment: tents, dining tent and kitchen.
- Emergency horse.
- One night in a hotel in Aguas Calientes with private bathroom.
- Return train to Ollantaytambo.
Not Included
- Breakfast on the first day and dinner in Aguas Calientes.
- Entrance to the Cocalmayo hot springs.
- Optional zipline activity.
- Entrance to Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain (advance booking required).
- Sleeping bag (available for rent).
- Personal expenses, tips and extra horses.
What To Bring
- Original passport (and valid student card if you booked as a student).
- Small daypack (20–30 L) and a water bottle or hydration bladder (2–3 L).
- Broken-in waterproof hiking boots and comfortable sandals for camp.
- Layers: 2–3 breathable T-shirts, hiking pants, thermal underwear, fleece and a warm down jacket.
- Waterproof jacket and pants or a rain poncho.
- Wool hat, sun hat, gloves and warm socks.
- Headlamp with spare batteries.
- Sunscreen, sunglasses, lip balm and insect repellent.
- Personal first-aid kit, toiletries, small towel and toilet paper.
- Swimsuit if the route includes hot springs.
- Energy snacks and cash (soles) for tips and extras.
- Sleeping bag and trekking poles (available for rent).
Recommendations
- Keep a good level of fitness, especially for the climbs.
- Avoid the rainiest month (February) and book in advance.
Prices
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Classic Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu – 5D/4N
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