Salkantay Trek 5 days to Machu Picchu
High-altitude trekking, breathtaking landscapes & the ultimate journey to Machu Picchu
420 usd
Salkantay Trek 5 Days Overview
- Cusco - Mollepata - Soraypampa - Humantay Lake - Salkantay Mountain - Aguas Calientes - Machu PiCCHU
This 5-day trek combines high-altitude hiking, cultural encounters, and diverse ecosystems. You’ll cross the impressive Salkantay Pass (4,650 m), one of the highest points in the region, before descending into warmer jungle environments.
Along the way, you’ll experience remote Andean landscapes, local communities, and one of the most scenic routes to Machu Picchu.
US$420 per person
- Transport: Archaeological Bus | Train
- Type: Archaeological
- Locally Owned & Operated: Your Team
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Salkantay Trek 5 Days Highlights
- Reach the breathtaking Salkantay Pass (4,650 m)
- Stunning views of glaciers and mountain peaks
- Transition from Andes to jungle ecosystems
- Walk through coffee plantations and local villages
- Unique campsites in nature
- Guided visit to Machu Picchu
Salkantay Trek 5 Days Itinerary at a Glance
- Day 1: Cusco – Mollepata – Soraypampa
- Day 2: Soraypampa – Salkantay Pass – Chaullay
- Day 3: Chaullay – Lucmabamba
- Day 4: Lucmabamba – Llactapata – Aguas Calientes
- Day 5: Machu Picchu – Cusco
Why Choose Our Salkantay Trek 5 Days
Expert Local Guides
Our professional guides are trained in safety and have deep knowledge of the region, ensuring a safe and enriching experience.
Small Groups
We operate in small groups to provide personalized attention and a more enjoyable trek.
High-Quality Camping & Equipment
We provide comfortable camping gear and carefully selected campsites for a better experience.
SALKANTAY TREK 5 DAYS TO MACHU PICCHU ITINERARY
01
Cusco – Mollepata – Soraypampa – Humantay Lake
Your adventure begins early with a pickup from Cusco and a scenic drive to Mollepata, where you’ll enjoy breakfast and prepare for the trek.
From Challacancha, start a moderate hike through a beautiful valley to Soraypampa (3,900 m), where you’ll stay in comfortable Andean cabins. After lunch, hike to the stunning Humantay Lake (4,200 m), famous for its turquoise waters and glacier views.
In the evening, relax with tea time and a warm dinner before resting under a star-filled sky.
- Distance: 10 km
- Duration: 5–6 hours
- Max Altitude: 4,200 m
- Accommodation: Andean Cabins
- Difficulty: Moderate
02
Soraypampa – Salkantay Pass – Chaullay
This is the most challenging and rewarding day. After breakfast, hike up to the Salkantay Pass (4,630 m), the highest point of the trek, surrounded by breathtaking mountain views.
After reaching the summit, descend through dramatic landscapes to Huayracmachay, where you’ll have lunch. Continue trekking into the cloud forest, noticing the transition from high Andes to lush jungle.
Arrive at your campsite in Chaullay or Collpapampa, where a warm meal awaits.
- Distance: 23.5 km
- Duration: 10–11 hours
- Max Altitude: 4,630 m
- Accommodation: Andean Cabins
- Difficulty: Challenging
03
Collpapampa – Lucmabamba (Jungle Experience)
Today’s trek is more relaxed as you descend through the lush jungle, surrounded by waterfalls, rivers, and tropical vegetation.
Along the way, you’ll pass coffee, banana, and avocado plantations, and even have the chance to visit a local organic coffee farm. Optional visit to Cocalmayo Hot Springs is available.
Spend the night in comfortable jungle cabins, enjoying the peaceful rainforest atmosphere.
- Distance: 17 km
- Duration: 5–6 hours
- Max Altitude: 2,950 m
- Accommodation: Jungle Cabins
- Difficulty: Moderate
04
Lucmabamba – Llactapata – Aguas Calientes
After breakfast, hike part of the original Inca Trail to reach Llactapata (2,700 m), where you’ll enjoy your first distant view of Machu Picchu.
Continue descending to Hidroelectrica, where you’ll have lunch. From here, you can either take a train (optional) or hike along the railway to Aguas Calientes.
Spend the night in a hotel and get ready for the big day.
- Distance: 14 km
- Duration: 7–8 hours
- Accommodation: Hotel in Aguas Calientes
- Difficulty: Moderate
05
Machu Picchu – Return to Cusco
Wake up early to visit Machu Picchu, one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. Enjoy a guided tour exploring its temples, terraces, and history.
After the visit, return to Aguas Calientes and take the train to Ollantaytambo, followed by private transport back to Cusco.
- Guide Duration: 2–3 hours
- Altitude: 2,430 m (Machu Picchu)
- Difficulty: Easy
Optional Activities on the Salkantay Trek 5 days
- Huayna Picchu Mountain – US$ 75 per person
Add an extra adventure by climbing Huayna Picchu, the iconic peak seen in classic Machu Picchu photos. The hike takes around 2 hours round trip and offers incredible panoramic views of the citadel.
Advance booking is required due to limited availability. - Machu Picchu Mountain – US$ 75 per person
For those looking for a higher and less crowded option, this hike takes you to the summit of Machu Picchu Mountain. The 3-hour round trip rewards you with breathtaking views of the entire sanctuary.
Spaces are limited and should be reserved in advance.
Inclusions
Included
- Professional bilingual guide:
Travel with an experienced local guide (English & Spanish) who will lead the group, ensure your safety, and share valuable insights about the Andes, local culture, and Inca history throughout the trek. - Transportation from Cusco:
Comfortable tourist transport from Cusco to the starting point of the trek, ensuring a smooth and well-organized beginning of your adventure. - Camping equipment & accommodation:
Enjoy carefully selected campsites with quality equipment, plus a comfortable hotel stay in Aguas Calientes before visiting Machu Picchu. - Meals during the trek:
Freshly prepared meals including breakfast, lunch, and dinner, cooked by our trekking chef. Vegetarian options are available upon request. - Machu Picchu entrance ticket:
Access to the Inca citadel (subject to availability), including a guided tour with your professional guide. - Train from Aguas Calientes (if included in your package):
Scenic return journey through the Sacred Valley, offering comfort and stunning views. - First aid kit & oxygen:
Your guide carries a complete first aid kit and oxygen bottle to assist with altitude-related symptoms or minor incidents. - 24/7 assistance:
Full support from our team before and during your trip, ensuring a safe and worry-free experience at all times.
Not Included
- Lunch on the last day: Meals after your visit to Machu Picchu are not included, giving you the freedom to choose where and what to eat in Aguas Calientes.
- Travel insurance: Travel insurance is not part of the package. We strongly recommend having personal coverage for your trip.
- Walking sticks: Trekking poles are not included but can be rented if needed.
- Bus from Machu Picchu to Aguas Calientes: The bus ticket is optional and not included. You may choose to walk down or take the bus at an additional cost.
- Sleeping bag: Available for rent if you don’t bring your own.
- Tips for staff: Optional but appreciated for guides, cooks, and horsemen.
- Personal expenses: Snacks, drinks, and other personal purchases along the route.
- Entrance to hot springs (optional): Cocalmayo hot springs visit is optional and requires an extra fee.
- Additional activities: Optional experiences not mentioned in the itinerary (if any).
Salkantay Trek 5 Days Packing List (Quick Guide)
- Comfortable hiking boots:
Essential for long trekking days on uneven and rocky terrain. Make sure they are well broken-in before the trek. - Warm clothing (layers):
Temperatures can drop significantly at night and at high altitude, so bring thermal layers, a fleece, and a warm jacket. - Lightweight clothing (quick-dry):
Ideal for warmer sections of the trek as you descend into the jungle areas. - Rain jacket or poncho:
Weather can change quickly, especially in the cloud forest and jungle zones. - Sunscreen & sunglasses:
Strong sun exposure at high altitude makes sun protection essential during the day. - Insect repellent:
Important for the lower jungle areas where mosquitoes are more common. - Small backpack (20–30L):
To carry your daily essentials such as water, snacks, camera, and personal items. - Swimwear & towel:
Optional but recommended if you plan to visit hot springs like Cocalmayo. - Cash (Peruvian soles):
Useful for small purchases, tips, and optional expenses along the route.
👉 Check our full Salkantay Trek packing list guide.
Salkantay Trek 5 Days Price
$420 USD
$390 USD
$380 USD
$360 USD
To secure your spot on the Salkantay Trek 5 Days, a deposit of US$ 150 per person is required.
The remaining balance can be paid:
- Online before your trip, or
- In Cusco (cash or credit card) prior to departure
This system allows you to confirm your reservation in advance while keeping flexibility for the final payment.
Student Discount
- US$ 20 discount per person
This discount applies to:
- Travelers under 17 years old
- Students under 25 years old with a valid student ID
Please provide valid documentation at the time of booking to access the discount.
Exclusive Campsites on the Salkantay Trek 5 days
Comfortable Andean Cabins in Soraypampa
- Location: Soraypampa
- Altitude: 3,900 m / 12,795 ft
- Capacity: 2 people per cabin
- Meals included: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
Comfortable Andean Cabins in Chaullay
- Location: Chaullay
- Altitude: 2,950 m / 9,678 ft
- Capacity: 2 people per cabin
- Meals included: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
Comfortable Sky domes in Lucmabamba
- Location: Lucmabamba
- Altitude: 2,000 m / 6,562 ft
- Capacity: 2 people per cabin
- Meals included: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
Hotel in Aguas Calientes
- Location: Aguas Calientes
- Altitude: 2,040 m / 6,693 ft
- Capacity: Double, Matrimonial, and Triple
- Meals included: Breakfast
FREQUENT ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT SALKANTAY TREK 5 DAYS
How difficult is the Salkantay Trek 5 Days?
It is moderate to challenging due to altitude and distance.
What is the highest altitude?
Salkantay Pass at 4,650 m.
Do I need previous experience?
Not required, but good physical condition is recommended.
What is the best time to go?
April to October (dry season).
Is the Salkantay Trek 5 Days worth it?
Yes, it is one of the most scenic and rewarding routes to Machu Picchu.
Reserve now with a small deposit and finish later.
Trip Details
- Duration: 5 Days / 4 Nights
- Difficulty: Moderate to Challenging
- Max Altitude: 4,650 m (Salkantay Pass)
- Start Point: Cusco
- End Point: Machu Picchu
- Group Size: Small groups
- Accommodation: Campsites & Aguas Calientes hotel