Salkantay Trail to Machu Picchu 5D/4N

Package Details

Duration 5 Days / 4 Nights
Max Altitude 4,630 m / 15,190 ft
Group Size 2 to 12 people
Languages Spanish, English, Portuguese
Level Hard

Overview

The Salkantay Trail to Machu Picchu 5D/4N trip will bring a tour around some of the coolest landscapes in the Cuzco area. This will begin with serene valleys, silent paths, and enormous mountains soaring out of the ground. Each day will be a fresh start and energizing. This adventure will combine scenery, pleasant company, and consistent adventure.

We will pass over the famous Salkanty Pass and immediately go into the high altitude. We will be surrounded by snowy peaks and glaciers as we move on. The freshly made food will ensure that we are constantly in motion with the best mood and taste. The element of the salkantay trek to machu will be very demanding but well worth it.

We shall later plunge down into hot jungle tracts filled with fruit trees and waterfalls and green forests. We will pass by coffee farms, sample some local flavors, and visit small Andean villages. Hot springs will assist us to some rest of our legs after hard days on the trail. Every stop will be a new source of fun and stories to the trip.

We will arrive at Aguas Calentes and prepare for the Hiking to Machu Picchu. We will be guided with the important temples and terraces. Any person seeking fresh adventure will hike Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu mountain as long as it's reserved ahead of time.

The Salkantay Trail to Machu Picchu will crown into a bite train lift and the comforting lift back to Cuzco by auto. The entire trip will be largely recommendable to everyone who's fond of nature and culture. Hiking poles, a resting bag, and introductory outfit will allow us to feel comfortable on a diurnal base. This trip will remain in our minds indeed after we're back home.

  • Itinerary
  • Inclusions
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Day 1

Cuzco – Mollepata – Soraypampa – Humantay Lake – Salkantaypampa

We will start the journey by picking up at 4.30 AM at our hotel in Cuzco . Our drive to Mollepata will take two hours and there we will have a warm breakfast. With lunch stuff packed away, we will go out an hour further to the trailhead and meet our muleteers and cook. The fresh morning air will be lovely and we have the day ahead of our first hiking.
The increase will be past an old Inca canal, and after 3 hours, it will be towards Soraypampa which is 3,800 above sea ground. We will be sightseeing through open fields and the silent mountain walks. Our mountain chef will give us a welcome lunch so that we recharge. We shall stop a word and then on to the lake.
The following will be approximately a two-hour stretch to Humantay Lake with an altitude of 4, 200 meters above the sea level. It will be like we have abruptly arrived at the viewpoint using the turquoise color. We are going to take some pictures, have some rest on the rocks and watch the peaceful glacier air. The location will be clean and unnatural.
The lake will be followed by another two-hour journey to the Salkantaypampa. Streams, rocky areas and grassy valleys will be covered in the trail. The camping point will provide an enormous panoramic of Salkantay Mountain that is 6,271 meters above sea level. We shall have dinner and see stars in the sky. Previously, we will pack snacks, layers and equipment in anticipation of the demanding day.

Day 1 Statistics:

Distance: 14 kilometers
Lowest altitude: 3,800 meters above sea level
Highest altitude: 4,200 meters above sea level
Route: Cuzco – Mollepata – Soraypampa – Humantay Lake – Salkantaypampa
Difficulty: Challenging

Day 2

Salkantaypampa – Salkantay Pass – Wayracmachay – Collpapampa

Early mornings will see us having a hot rhythm and staring at the mountains as they musingly gleam with the sunrise. The breakfast will assist us in readying ourselves to the longest hike on the trek. It will be cold and airy, yet the scenery will be inspirational. Cloudy mountains will occur on either side of the valley.
After two hours of hiking, we are to reach the Salkantay Pass that is well-known and is located at 4,630 above sea level. This is the peak of the Salkantay trail. We will party together, have photographs, and have fun on the huge glacier walls. The power of this location will be primeval and strong.
Then we shall enter the protracted decline. We will take a 3 hour walk to Wayracmachay, 3800 meters above the sea level, where we are going to have lunch. The scenery will change fast. We shall abandon the cold mountainous region and venture into the border of the cloud forest. We might be lucky and see the Vizcachas leaping over the rocks.
Lunch will be followed by three hours further down through rich greenery. The heat will be increased and the fragrance of plants will spread in the atmosphere. The scenery will be tropical and breathing. By afternoon we will arrive in Collpapampa at 2,800 meters above sea level. The campsite will be bordered by the forest and a calm setting will be formed by the river. Dinner will come and then it will be time to charge up.

Day 2 Statistics:

Distance: 19 kilometers
Lowest altitude: 2,800 meters above sea level
Highest altitude: 4,630 meters above sea level
Route: Salkantaypampa – Salkantay Pass – Wayracmachay – Collpapampa
Difficulty: Challenging

Day 3

Collpapampa – Lucmabamba – Playa

There will be warm air and the singing of birds in the valley. Broken breakfast will serve to set us in readiness to live. The scenery will be tropical at the very first footsteps. We shall trundle rivers, bridges and waterfalls. The trail will be winding down the canyons and shaded forest areas.
On our way, we will pass banana plantations, coffee plantations and avocado. We are going to have green hills and a pleasant breeze. We will encounter what to do with the local families tending the land and good dogs passing by the trail. This section of the expedition will exhibit the actual existence of the high jungle.
We are going to a local Coffee farm in Lucmabamba. The farmers will also show us the way they plant, harvest and roast coffee. We will get to sample fresh organic coffee and get exposed to the local traditions of the area. It will be a real, warm and simple experience.
We will still play at Playa which is 2,000 meters above the sea level later. It will be hot and humid in the climate. Where time permits we shall go to the Cocalmayo hot springs. The natural warm pools will help our legs to calm down after a day of walking. The evening dinner at camp will be followed by sleep in the quiet black jungle.

Day 3 Statistics:

Distance: 16 kilometers
Lowest altitude: 2,000 meters above sea level
Highest altitude: 2,750 meters above sea level
Route: Collpapampa – Lucmabamba – Playa
Difficulty: Moderate

Day 4

Playa – Llactapata – Hydroelectric – Aguas Calientes

This day will begin with breakfast. Then we shall start the steep three hour climb to Llactapata. The route will take it through small farms and wood trails. It will be warm in the air, and the scenery will reveal itself gradually. On the ridge, as we arrive at the summit Machu Picchu will be seen in a distant ridge. It will be one of the most desirable moments of the trek.

After exploring Llactapata, we will descend to the Ahobamba Valley. We will walk through green fields and fruit trees. Lunch will be at a local home, where the family will welcome us with fresh food. This will be a great chance to enjoy Andean hospitality.

We will continue walking toward Hydroelectric along forest trails and open views. Soon, we will join the train tracks. This part of the walk will feel calm and relaxing. We will follow the tracks for several kilometers as Machu Picchu grows closer.

In the late afternoon, we will arrive in Aguas Calientes. We will check into our 3-star hotel and enjoy a warm shower. Dinner will be in town. We will sleep early to prepare for Machu Picchu the next morning.

Day 4 Statistics:

Distance: 24 kilometers
Lowest altitude: 2,000 meters above sea level
Highest altitude: 2,840 meters above sea level
Route: Playa – Llactapata – Hydroelectric – Aguas Calientes
Difficulty: Challenging

Day 5

Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu – Ollantaytambo – Cuzco

We'll wake before daylight and take the first machine to Machu Picchu. The sky will turn pink as we arrive at the gate. Our companion will lead us through the main tabernacles, forecourts, and shoes. We'll learn about Inca armature and astronomy. prints at the lookout will capture the full beauty of the fort.

We may climb Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain, If we've permits. These hikes will take more time but will offer indelible views. After exploring the main point, we will return to Aguas Calientes for lunch and a short break.

In the autumn, we will board the train to Ollantaytambo. The lift will show beautiful swash decor and flume walls. Also, we will take private transport back to Cuzco . We'll arrive around 7:00 PM. The journey will end, but the recollections will stay strong.

Day 5 Statistics:

Machu Picchu visit: 3 hours
Altitude: 2,430 meters above sea level
Route: Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu – Ollantaytambo – Cuzco
Difficulty: Easy

Included

  • Private minivan from Cuzco to the trailhead
  • Transfer from Ollantaytambo to Cuzco in a comfortable minivan
  • Bus tickets from Machu Picchu to Aguas Calientes
  • Expedition tourist train ticket from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo
  • Night-before briefing with a professional guide
  • Professional bilingual guide trained in local culture and Inca history
  • Cooking team and muleteers to carry camping and cooking equipment
  • First aid kit available throughout the trek
  • 2-hour guided tour of the Machu Picchu citadel
  • Machu Picchu entry tickets
  • Humantay Lake entrance tickets
  • Salkantay Pass entrance tickets
  • 4 breakfasts, 4 lunches, and 4 dinners
  • Meals adapted to vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, or special dietary needs
  • Cold boiled water provided to fill your travel containers
  • Duffle bag for 5 kg of personal items
  • Hiking poles
  • Sleeping bag
  • Air mattress

Not Included

  • Last lunch outside the trek package
  • Bottled water (cold boiled water is provided at camps)
  • Personal expenses during the tour
  • Tips for staff on the trail (optional but appreciated; important for cooks and muleteers)

Others

Cash (soles) and/or credit cards
Daypack (20–30 L)
Energy snacks (bars, nuts, etc.)
Enough underwear and socks
Hat, scarf and gloves
Headlamp or handheld flashlight (with spare batteries)
Insect repellent
Lightweight and comfortable trousers
Passport or ID card (and digital copies)
Personal care products
Personal medications and basic first aid kit
Photographic Camera
Polos or breathable t-shirts
Portable charger
Rain poncho
Reusable water bottle
Sandals or light footwear for relaxation
Sunscreen (SPF 50+)
Swimsuit
Trekking poles
Trekking shoes or boots
Warm jacket
Waterproof or windproof jacket

Recommendations for this Tour

  • Original passport
  • Small, comfortable backpack (≤25 liters recommended)
  • Water storage: Camelbak or 2-liter water bottle (bring 2 liters for first morning)
  • Comfortable hiking boots with good soles
  • Rain gear: jacket, pants, waterproof gloves, poncho
  • Sun protection: sunscreen, sun hat
  • Warm hat and gloves for cold mornings and nights
  • Camera, extra batteries, and memory cards
  • Alcohol gel and hand sanitizer
  • Toilet paper and wet wipes
  • Extra money for souvenirs, drinks, and tips
  • 4–5 long-sleeve or absorbent t-shirts
  • 3 comfortable hiking/walking pants
  • 5 sets of underwear
  • 5 pairs of hiking socks
  • 1 warm jacket for cold nights
  • Comfortable camping shoes or sandals
  • Quick-drying camping towel; small hand towel
  • Soap in a sealed container
  • Battery charger for at least 6 days
  • Plastic bags to separate clean and dirty clothes
  • Earplugs for better sleep at night
  • Toiletries: toothbrush, toothpaste, personal hygiene items
  • Sunscreen and insect repellent
  • Personal medication

Important Info

  • Altitude Sickness Drink coca tea and acclimatize.
  • Local Currency Carry Soles (PEN) in cash.
  • Changing Weather Dress in layers.

Frequently Asked Questions

Everything you need to know before your trip.

How fit should you be to walk the Salkantay Trail to Machu Picchu over five days and four nights?

A steady pace helps when walking six to nine hours each day. High ground shows up now and then, so legs must adjust. Fitness does not need to be sharp, just consistent.

When does the morning hike usually start each day?

Morning hikes often begin between five and six a.m., when light is growing and heat hasn’t built up. Before setting out, there’s breakfast - fuel for what comes next.

What happens if someone needs special food while on the trail?

We’ll match what you eat - vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, whatever fits. Tell the guides ahead of time so everything lines up just right when we’re out there.

How does the trek handle issues from high elevation on the Salkantay route?

Starting slow helps. Carrying coca tea along, just in case - natural comfort on hand. Walking stays relaxed, never rushed. The tour companion will watch each step we take.

Along the path, what kinds of places to stay might show up?

Few of the evenings find us tucked into cozy camp spots, complete with tents and padded mats for rest. Come the last night in Aguas Calientes, a hotel waits - warm showers included.

What is the most challenging segment of the Salkantay Trail?

Facing the Salkantay Pass begins high - 4,630 meters above sea level. Upward travel takes time; still, glacier light on stone makes effort fade. Mountain shapes fill the distance, sharp against the sky.

How should we prepare for unpredictable weather conditions on the trail?

Facing sudden shifts in mountain weather means extra layers come along - waterproof jackets, ponchos, thick clothes tucked into bags.

Guided or Self-Guided Visits to Machu Picchu?

A guide who speaks two languages will join us at Machu Picchu. Through their words, ancient stories come alive near temples, terraces, and open squares.

Booking Time for Salkantay Trail to Machu Picchu 5D 4N?

Booking ahead by several months works best when planning a trip. The dry season sees more visitors, so spots fill fast.

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