tour highlights
Salkantay Pass
Humantay Lake
Cloud Forest
Llactapata Ruins
Machu Picchu
Professional Guide
Salkantay Trek 4 Days to Machu Picchu – Overview
Experience an unforgettable 4-Day Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu, one of the most spectacular alternative trekking routes in the Cusco region. This challenging adventure takes you through an incredible variety of landscapes, from the snow-capped Andes and high mountain passes to lush cloud forests and tropical valleys.
During the Salkantay Trek 4 Days, you’ll visit the stunning Humantay Lake, cross the impressive Salkantay Pass at 4,650 m (15,256 ft), and descend into the warmer landscapes of the Peruvian jungle. Along the route, you’ll encounter traditional Andean communities, coffee plantations, tropical fruit farms, and breathtaking views of the Vilcabamba mountain range.
The trek concludes in Aguas Calientes, where you’ll spend the final morning exploring Machu Picchu, one of the world’s most iconic archaeological sites. With a combination of challenging hiking, spectacular scenery, Andean culture, and Inca history, this Salkantay Trek from Cusco to Machu Picchu is an excellent choice for adventurous travelers looking for an unforgettable experience in Peru.
Duration
5 Days / 4 NightsDifficulty
ChallengingStarting Point
Cusco HotelAltitude
4,650 m / 15,256 ft (Salkantay Pass)Group Size
Small GroupsLanguage
English & SpanishTransportation
Tourist Transportation IncludedGuide
Professional Trekking GuideSalkantay Trek 5 Days to Machu Picchu – Itinerary
Day 1: Cusco – Mollepata – Challacancha – Soraypampa – Humantay Lake
Your adventure begins with hotel pickup between 4:30 AM and 5:00 AM in Cusco. We travel approximately two hours to Mollepata, where we'll stop for breakfast before continuing to Challacancha (3,800 m / 12,467 ft), the starting point of our trek.
From Challacancha, begin a scenic hike of approximately 3 hours toward Soraypampa (3,900 m / 12,795 ft). Upon arrival, enjoy a nutritious lunch surrounded by spectacular views of the Andes.
In the afternoon, we'll hike for approximately 1.5 hours to the breathtaking Humantay Lake (4,220 m / 13,845 ft). Admire its turquoise waters and the surrounding snow-capped peaks of Humantay and Salkantay while your guide explains the cultural and natural significance of this sacred destination.
After spending time at the lake, descend to our camp in Soraypampa. Enjoy a warm cup of coca tea, followed by dinner prepared by our trekking chef.
Day 2: Soraypampa – Salkantay Pass – Wacracmachay – Collpapampa
Start the day with an early breakfast at approximately 5:00 AM before beginning one of the most spectacular sections of the Salkantay Trek.
From Soraypampa, hike uphill for approximately 3 hours toward the Salkantay Pass (4,650 m / 15,256 ft), the highest point of the trek. From the pass, enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding snow-capped mountains, including Salkantay, Humantay, Tucarhuay, and Pumasillo.
Continue through Salkantaypampa and Soyrococha before beginning a long descent toward Wacracmachay (3,800 m / 12,467 ft), where we'll stop for lunch.
After lunch, continue descending through increasingly greener landscapes for approximately 3 more hours until reaching Collpapampa. Upon arrival, enjoy tea and dinner before spending the night in comfortable accommodation surrounded by the cloud forest.
Day 3: Collpapampa – La Playa – Lucmabamba
After breakfast, begin the third day of the Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu with a scenic hike through the lush cloud forest and tropical jungle.
Today's trek takes approximately 5.5 hours, with a combination of ascents and descents. As you descend into warmer climates, you'll encounter coffee plantations, tropical fruits, orchids, and native plants traditionally used by local communities.
After reaching the lunch area, take some time to rest and enjoy a fascinating coffee experience, learning about the cultivation, harvesting, and preparation of locally grown coffee.
Continue toward Lucmabamba, where you'll spend the night in comfortable private domes surrounded by the jungle.
If you wish, you can also visit the Cocalmayo Hot Springs in Santa Teresa for an additional fee, subject to availability and timing.
Day 4: Lucmabamba – Llactapata – Hydroelectric Station – Aguas Calientes
Wake up surrounded by the lush landscapes of the Peruvian jungle, with views of rivers, waterfalls, orchids, coffee plantations, bananas, and avocado trees.
After breakfast, begin one of the most fascinating sections of the trek: a hike along part of the original Inca Trail toward Llactapata.
After approximately 2.5 hours of uphill hiking, arrive at the Llactapata Archaeological Site, where your guide will explain the history and importance of this ancient Inca complex. From here, you'll enjoy your first spectacular views of Machu Picchu and Huayna Picchu Mountain.
Descend to enjoy lunch before continuing toward the Hydroelectric Station.
Upon arrival in Aguas Calientes, enjoy dinner at a local restaurant before spending the night at a hotel.
Day 5: Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu – Cusco
The highlight of your journey has arrived: Machu Picchu.
We'll wake up early, around 4:30 AM, and have a breakfast box before beginning the journey to the archaeological sanctuary.
You can choose to hike from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu, which takes approximately 1.5 hours, or take the shuttle bus for a faster and more comfortable journey. The bus ride takes approximately 30 minutes and is available at an additional cost.
Upon arrival at the entrance, you'll present your original passport and Machu Picchu entrance ticket before beginning your guided visit.
Your professional guide will lead you to the best viewpoints for the classic Machu Picchu photograph before exploring the main sectors of the citadel. The guided tour lasts approximately 2.5 hours, during which you'll learn about the history, architecture, religious traditions, and remarkable engineering of the Inca civilization.
Depending on your selected entrance ticket and available time, you may have additional time to explore the sanctuary or hike one of the additional mountain routes, such as Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain. These require advance reservation and an additional entrance ticket.
After your visit, return to Aguas Calientes and board your scheduled train for the return journey. From the train station, continue by tourist transportation toward Cusco, concluding your unforgettable 5-Day Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu.
Inclusions
Included
- Comfortable accommodation throughout the Salkantay Trek: Instead of traditional small tents, enjoy comfortable private domes and cabins surrounded by spectacular Andean and jungle landscapes.
- Night 1 – Soraypampa: Stay in a comfortable glass cabin designed for two people, offering an unforgettable experience surrounded by the Andes.
- Nights 2 and 3 – Collpapampa and Lucmabamba: Enjoy private domes for two people in the cloud forest and tropical jungle.
- Night 4 – Aguas Calientes: Accommodation in a 2-star hotel with Wi-Fi, private bathroom, and hot water. Breakfast box is provided. An upgrade to a higher-category hotel is available upon request.
- Meals included according to the itinerary: 5 breakfasts, 4 lunches, and 4 dinners.
- Professional cook and kitchen staff throughout the 5-Day Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu.
- Dining and kitchen tents at the campsites for the preparation of fresh meals.
- Vegetarian, vegan, and other dietary requirements can be accommodated with advance notice.
- A cup of hot coca tea every morning during the trek.
- Boiled water is provided at the campsites for coffee and tea with your meals.
- Private transportation from your hotel in Cusco to the starting point of the Salkantay Trek.
- Train ticket from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo.
- Tourist transportation from Ollantaytambo to Cusco.
- Professional English & Spanish-speaking trekking guide.
- Experienced and certified trekking guides with a minimum of 3 years of guiding experience.
- First-aid kit and emergency oxygen carried by the trekking team.
- Horses and horse handlers to transport camping equipment, food, and cooking supplies.
- Personal duffel bag: A duffel bag is provided for your personal belongings, with a maximum weight of 5 kg per person.
- Assistance before and throughout your Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu.
Not Included
- Lunch and dinner on the final day.
- Drinking water during the hikes. We recommend carrying enough water; additional bottled water can be purchased along the trekking route.
- Trekking poles available for rent at US$20 per person.
- Additional horses for luggage exceeding the 5 kg per person duffel bag allowance.
- Shuttle bus between Aguas Calientes and Machu Picchu, approximately US$12 per person.
- Travel insurance.
- Domestic or international flights.
- Personal expenses and souvenirs.
- Tips for your guide, cook, horse handlers, and trekking staff.
- Services not specifically mentioned in the itinerary.
Recommendations
- Acclimatize in Cusco: Spend at least two days in Cusco before starting the trek to allow your body to adjust to the high altitude.
- Maintain a good level of physical fitness, as the Salkantay Trek includes long hiking days and significant elevation changes.
- Bring comfortable clothing suitable for both cold high-altitude conditions and warm, humid jungle environments.
- Wear comfortable, waterproof hiking boots with good ankle support and grip.
- Bring a waterproof jacket or rain poncho, especially during the rainy season.
- Pack warm layers, thermal clothing, gloves, and a hat for the higher sections of the trek.
- Bring sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat or cap for protection from the strong Andean sun.
- Use insect repellent when hiking through the cloud forest and tropical jungle.
- Stay well hydrated and carry a reusable water bottle for the trekking days.
- Bring energy snacks such as chocolate, nuts, granola bars, or dried fruit.
- Carry your original passport, especially for the Machu Picchu entrance and train journey.
- Pack personal hygiene items and any essential medication you may need during the trek.
- Reserve your Machu Picchu entrance ticket well in advance, especially during the high season.
- The dry season from May to October is generally recommended for the Salkantay Trek, although the trek operates throughout the year.
- Follow your professional guide's recommendations throughout the trek for a safer and more enjoyable experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
Eligible university students may qualify for a student discount on the Machu Picchu entrance ticket, subject to the requirements established by the Peruvian authorities. After booking, you must provide a clear photo of both sides of your valid student ID along with your passport. The student card must be an original PVC card issued by a recognized university, include your full name and photograph, and have a valid expiration date. You must also carry your original student ID and passport when entering Machu Picchu for verification.
We recommend spending at least 2 to 3 days acclimatizing in Cusco before starting the Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu. Even if you are accustomed to high altitudes, taking at least one full day to rest in Cusco is advisable. Stay well hydrated, eat light and nutritious meals, avoid excessive alcohol, and maintain a comfortable pace during the trek. Coca tea is traditionally consumed in the Andes and may help with general discomfort associated with altitude, although it is not a medical treatment for altitude sickness.
The best time for the 5-Day Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu is generally from May to October, during Peru's dry season. These months typically offer less rainfall, clearer mountain views, and better trail conditions. Temperatures can still be very cold at night, especially at Soraypampa and near the Salkantay Pass, so warm clothing and proper trekking gear are essential.
Yes. Depending on your Machu Picchu entrance ticket and available schedules, you may be able to visit Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain. These additional hikes have limited availability and must be reserved in advance. Keep in mind that both routes require additional physical effort after completing the Salkantay Trek, so they are best suited for travelers with good fitness levels.
Accommodation varies according to the service selected. During the first nights of the Salkantay Trek, travelers stay in comfortable camps, cabins, or private domes in scenic mountain and jungle environments. The final night is spent in a hotel in Aguas Calientes, the town located below Machu Picchu. Warm sleeping equipment and appropriate clothing are recommended because temperatures can drop significantly at high altitude.
The Salkantay Trek 5 Days is considered a challenging trekking adventure, especially on the second day when you cross the Salkantay Pass at approximately 4,650 m (15,256 ft). The route includes long hiking days, steep ascents and descents, and significant changes in altitude and climate. Good physical preparation and proper acclimatization are strongly recommended.
Previous high-altitude trekking experience is helpful but not strictly required. However, you should have a good level of physical fitness and be comfortable walking for several hours per day. Our professional trekking guides provide assistance throughout the route and help you maintain a safe and manageable pace.
We recommend packing waterproof trekking boots, warm layers, thermal clothing, a rain jacket or poncho, sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat, insect repellent, a reusable water bottle, personal medications, and energy snacks. Bring your original passport, as it is required for the Machu Picchu entrance and train services. A small daypack is also recommended for carrying your daily essentials.
Yes. The Salkantay Trek from Cusco to Machu Picchu can generally be operated throughout the year. However, weather conditions vary significantly by season. The dry season from May to October usually provides better hiking conditions, while the rainy season can bring heavier rainfall, muddy trails, and reduced visibility.
$250 USD
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