Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu 5 Days

You'll wake up with the first light of day, greeted by the majestic Apu Salkantay, and enjoy a warm coca tea. After a nutritious breakfast, you'll embark on a challenging 7 km trek, taking about three hours, to reach the highest point of the route, the Salkantay Pass (4,630 m/15,190 ft).

The ascent, known as the "path of the 7 snakes," is steep and winding, but the reward at the top is a breathtaking view of Salkantay Mountain and the surrounding peaks of Humantay, Tucarhuay, and Pumasillo.

After taking in the stunning scenery, you'll begin a 7 km descent to Huayracmachay (3,850 m/12,631 ft) for a well-deserved lunch. The path is rocky and steep, but the views of the valley are unforgettable.

Following lunch, you'll enter the "cloud forest," trekking 9.5 km over three and a half hours. The landscape transforms dramatically from the Andes to the Amazon, with vibrant colors, unique fauna, and lush vegetation. After a long day of hiking, you'll arrive at Collpapampa, where you'll enjoy a hearty meal and rest at our exclusive Mountain Sky View Campsite.

Overnight in a Sky View Campsite of Collpapampa.

• Difficulty: 4.7 out of 5 / Challenging.
• Distance: 23.5 km approximately.
• Walking Time: Around 10 - 11 hrs approximately.
• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner.
• Min. Elevation: 2,900 m / 9,514 ft.
• Max. Elevation: 4,630 m / 15,190 ft.

You'll start the day at 6:00 am with tea and breakfast before setting out. Today's trek will take you through the lush Santa Teresa Valley, with a mostly downhill path that offers views of rivers, waterfalls, orchids, and plantations of banana, coffee, and avocado.

Passing through the small village of Collpapampa, you'll descend into a valley where you might spot Peru's national bird, the Cock of the Rock, along with other wildlife. After a tasty lunch in La Playa, you'll continue to Lucmabamba (2,000 m), just an hour away.

In the afternoon, you'll have free time to explore the tropical surroundings and visit an organic coffee farm, where you can savor the aroma of fresh coffee. You'll also visit avocado and orange plantations. After dinner, you'll retire to our Jungle Domes, falling asleep to the soothing sounds of nature.

Overnight in a Jungle Domes of Lucmabamba.

• Difficulty: 3.5 out of 5 / Moderate.
• Distance: 17 km approximately.
• Walking Time: Around 5 - 6 hrs approximately.
• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner.
• Min. Elevation: 2,000 m / 6,562 ft.
• Max. Elevation: 2,950 m / 9,678 ft.

You'll be eager to lace up your hiking boots for your final day of trekking after a hearty breakfast. The morning begins with a 2-hour uphill climb along a section of the famous Inca Trail, offering stunning views over the Santa Teresa Valley. You'll reach Llactapata (2,700 m), an Inca archaeological site directly across from Machu Picchu, where you'll get your first glimpse of the citadel and learn about Incan history.

After exploring Llactapata, you'll descend for 1.5 hours, catching more views of Machu Picchu, before stopping for lunch in Aobamba. From there, it's a short walk to Hidroelectrica (1,800 m), where you'll see a 250-meter-tall artificial waterfall that powers Cusco.

At Hidroelectrica, you can either take a train to Aguas Calientes or enjoy a 3-hour flat walk along the tracks, surrounded by the warm jungle. On the way, you'll see the Intihuatana, an ancient Incan sundial. Once in Aguas Calientes, you'll enjoy dinner at a local restaurant and spend the night in a comfortable hotel.

Note: During the rainy season, the Llactapata Trail may be closed for safety reasons due to hazardous conditions.

Overnight in a hotel in Aguas Calientes.

• Difficulty: 5 out of 5 / Challenging.
• Distance: 25 km approximately.
• Walking Time: Around 8 - 9 hrs approximately.
• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner.
• Min. Elevation: 1,800 m / 5,906 ft.
• Max. Elevation: 2,800 m / 9,186 ft.

Today is the day you've been eagerly anticipating—the visit to Machu Picchu, one of the 7 Wonders of the World! You'll start early to beat the crowds and experience the citadel in the peaceful morning light.

Once inside, you'll enjoy a 2-hour guided tour through the most important sections of this ancient Inca site, including houses, temples, terraces, and crop fields. You'll marvel at the Inca's advanced engineering, from their mountain-side construction to their intricate water systems, which remain a mystery even today.

Fun fact: When Hiram Bingham first saw Machu Picchu, it was hidden under thick vegetation. Today, it's a beautifully restored and protected UNESCO World Heritage Site, cherished by people worldwide.

After your visit, return to Aguas Calientes for lunch before boarding the 2:55 pm train to Ollantaytambo. From there, our private bus will take you back to Cusco, arriving around 8 pm. You'll finally rest your feet, but the rhythm of the Andes will stay with you for a lifetime.

Overnight in Cusco (On your own)

• Difficulty: 2 out of 5 / Easy.
• Walking Time: Around 2 - 3 hrs approximately.
• Meals: Breakfast.
• Machu Picchu Elevation: 2,430 m / 7,972 ft.
• Cusco Elevation: 3,399 m / 11,150 ft.

The trek involves challenging hikes at high altitudes. A good level of physical fitness and some prior trekking experience are recommended.

Yes, altitude sickness can occur. It's important to acclimate in Cusco before starting the trek, stay hydrated, and listen to your body during the hike. Therefore, we suggest you check our traditional tours to acclimatize.

Charging facilities are generally limited. We recommend bringing extra batteries or a portable power bank; however, this service is available at most of our campsites.

Accommodations range from camping in Sky Camp and Mountain Sky View domes to hotels in Aguas Calientes. Ensure you have sleeping bags rated for cold temperatures.

Safe drinking water is provided at meals or can be treated with purification tablets. Always follow your guide's instructions regarding water sources.

Most hotels offer free storage. If not, you can safely store your belongings at our office until you return from the Salkantay Trek.

Additional costs may include optional activities, tips for guides and staff, and personal expenses. Entrance fees for Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain are also extra.

Acclimate in Cusco, train for physical endurance, and ensure you have the appropriate gear. Follow any additional advice from your tour operator.

In adverse weather or trail closures, the tour operator may adjust the itinerary or provide alternative arrangements. Flexibility and understanding are key.

After taking the train from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo, our representative will transport you back to your hotel in Cusco.

Guides are trained in first aid. For serious issues, evacuation procedures are in place. It is essential to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies.

• Direct Operator: Kantu Peru Tours is a local agency in Cusco that operates all packages directly. We don't use intermediaries, which avoids inflated costs.
• Professional Staff: Our team is highly trained in customer service and responsible tourism to ensure the best experience.
• Fully Licensed: We hold all necessary permits and certificates from the Municipality of Cusco and the Ministry of Tourism (DICETUR – MINCETUR).
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• Personalized Support: If you need more information, you can contact our team HERE.