One of the most incredible ways to visit Machu Picchu is through the Salkantay trek and it is a traditional route that connects with the Llaqta of Machu Picchu, which has been chosen as one of the best treks over the world. This route is incredible, you will be able to see the mountains and snow-capped peaks of Humantay and Salkantay. We then explore the Andes Mountains with their spectacular views of the colourful landscapes of the valley.
If you are planning to make a pilgrimage to the Llaqta of Machupicchu, and you are looking for a less crowded option, close to the Andean villages, this is your best alternative.
Max altitude
4 600 m / 15 091 feet
Trip Length
5 days
Languages
English / Spanish
Physical Level
Challenging
Cancellation
Cannot be cancelled
Inclusions
Included
- Transfer from the airport to your hotel.
- Pick you up from your hotel in the morning for start the tour.
- Private transport from Cusco to Soraypampa (starting point of the trek).
- Entrance fit to Machu Picchu.
- Guided tour in Machu Picchu.
- Experienced professional tour Guide.
- Meals as indicated in the itinerary.
- 2 bus tickets from A Camping tents, (large and comfortable).
- Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu and back to Aguas Calientes.
- First aid kit including emergency bottle oxygen.
- Train ticket from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo.
- Transfer from Ollantaytambo station to your hotel in Cusco.
- Dinner in Aguas Calientes in a tourist restaurant on the 4th day.
- Hotel in Aguas Calientes with private room and bathroom.
- Mules and horses (for equipment and personal belongings), including horse drivers.
- An extra porter to carry 7 kg of your personal belongings, such as extra clothes, sleeping bag.
- An extra horse in case of emergency, to ensure that all hikers complete the trek.
- Boiled water for drinking.
Not Included
- Sleeping bag: $25 USD per person in a hike (clean and warm).
- Air mattress: $ 20 USD per person in a hike (thermal rest mattresses).
- Walking poles: $ 15 USD per pair in a walk (professional poles).
- Personal Tent: $30 USD – (Single tent for independent travellers).
- Vistadome train service: $ 45 USD per person (turnaround only).
- Climbing Huayna Picchu mountain: $ 75 USD per person (Ask for it when you book the Trek).
- Climb Machu Picchu Mountain: $ 75 USD per person (Ask for it when you book the Trek).
- Lunch on the last day in Aguas Calientes.
- Tips for team, guide, cook and porters of Eco Tour Cusco.
Itinerary
Day 1: Cusco – Soraypampa – Laguna Humantay – Soyroccocha
Today we start the day early, and we will pick you up from your hotel around 4:00 a.m. and you will travel in our comfortable transport that will drive us towards Soraypampa, during this journey of approximately three and a half hours on a paved road and highway one part, we will see the impressive snow-capped mountain of Salkantay and we will have excellent views of the districts of Izcuchaca and Limatambo, along with the spectacular valleys and so we arrive at the district of Mollepata where we will have a comforting breakfast (not included).
After breakfast we continue for an hour and a half more until we arrive to the trailhead at Soraypampa, we will set off after arranging our gear while admiring the breathtaking views of the mountain glaciers of Humantay (19,356 ft) and Salkantay (20,396 ft). We will then take a 3 hour round trip hike to see the turquoise lagoon of Humantay. We will then walk for an hour and a half to Salkantay Pampa, where a delicious hot lunch awaits us in front of the spectacular scenery of the area.
After a relaxing and succulent lunch, we will walk to our first camp to Soyroccocha located at the foot of the imposing Salkantay Mountain. Upon arrival to our camp, you will have tea and some delicacies prepared by our chef to warm up and relax before dinner.
- Summary Day 1: Cusco – Mollepata – Soraypampa
- Included Meals: Lunch and dinner
- Accommodation: Camping facility.
- Distance: 9.6 kms / 6 miles.
- Time: Approximately 7 hours.
- Difficulty: Moderate
Day 2: Soyroccocha – Salkantay Pass 4650 masl – Colpapampa
After an extraordinary morning with a spectacular view of the majestic Salkantay, we will have a delicious breakfast, and then continue our journey uphill for approximately one hour to reach the highest point of the trek (4,685 m. / 15,367 ft). Here we will stop to enjoy the wonderful view of the mountains and snow-capped peaks (Huayanay, Humantay and Salkantay) along with the lakes and rivers.
Then, we descend to Rayanniyoc to enjoy our lunch. Afterwards, we will enter the subtropical forest, where we will observe a great number of birds and with luck we will be able to see the spectacled bear. Continuing for a couple of hours we will arrive at the small village of Colpapampa, where we will set up camp.
- Summary of Day 2: Soraypampa – Salkantay Pass – Chaullay
- Included: Breakfast, lunch, afternoon tea and dinner.
- Accommodation: Camping facility.
- Distance: 16 kms / 8 miles.
- Time: Approximately 7 hours.
- Difficulty: Challenge.
Day 3: Colpapampa – Lucmabamba – Cocalmayo Hot Springs
After enjoying a delicious breakfast, we will begin the easiest day, but with a welcoming landscape, as this day we will experience the most beautiful places along the route, this day marks the halfway point of our adventure. We will start walking towards our next destination Playa and Lucmabamba. During this trek, you will see the Aobamba Valley and a variety of fruit trees, birds, cocoa and coffee plantations, with its flower and orchid orchards. Eventually we will arrive at our destination Lucmabamba for lunch with plenty of time to relax.
At 15:00 p.m., we will board the local transport for half an hour to Cocalmayo, where you can bathe and relax in the natural hot springs.
After the hot springs we will return to the camp, there will be a brief explanation about the coffee of the region and its importance as the main agricultural product for export abroad (North America, Asia and Europe).
- Summary of Day 3: Chaullay – Sawayacu – Santa Teresa
- Included: Breakfast, lunch, afternoon tea and dinner.
- Accommodation: Camping facility.
- Distance: 14 kms / 7.5 miles.
- Time: 5 to 6 hours approximately.
- Difficulty: Moderate.
Day 4: Lucmabamba -Llaqtapata- Machupicchu village
Our support staff will wake you up early, bringing with them a hot drink to help you start your day. You will have time to prepare for today’s activities and also enjoy your final breakfast prepared by the trek chef. We will continue our journey along the ancient Inca Trail for three hours, to our next destination Llaqtapata, during this journey, you will see the spectacular scenes of fruit plantations, yucca, coca plants and different valleys.
When you reach the top, you will enjoy seeing the Llaqta of Machu Picchu from the other side of the valley, along with the neighbouring mountains: the Aobamba Canyon, Machu Picchu and Huayna Picchu.
Our next hike will be downhill for two hours to the hydroelectric plant. This hydroelectric plant serves as Cusco’s main source of energy, and will also be our lunch spot.
Departing from Hidroeléctrica, you will continue along the railway for approximately 3 hours, which leads to Machupicchu village – Aguas Calientes, located on the banks of the Urubamba valley. This part of the hike will be interesting as it was the trail used by the American professor, Hiram Bingham, when exploring Machu Picchu.
- Summary of Day 4: Santa Teresa – Hydroelectric – Aguas Calientes
- Included: Breakfast, lunch and dinner.
- Accommodation: Hotel Intiwatana 3*.
- Distance: 15 kms / 9 miles.
- Time: 8 to 9 hours approximately.
- Difficulty: Moderate.
Day 5: Aguas Calientes – Machupicchu – Cusco
This day you will definitely get to explore the Llaqta of Machu Picchu. We will start this tour very early to take the first bus at 5:30 am, to the historic sanctuary of Machu Picchu. Upon arrival, you will appreciate the sunrise over this great Inca city. Take your time and be sure to explore every corner of this New Wonder of the World. It will be an unforgettable experience.
Immediately your expert guide will lead you through the Llaqta of Machupicchu and its various main streets for about an hour and a half. Afterwards, you will have time to explore the different points such as: The sacred rock spiritual and energetic centre of the Andean world, walk up the carved stone stairs and enjoy the beautiful views.
There are some alternative activities that you may wish to do on your own:
Climb Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain and appreciate the beauty and magnificence of the Machu Picchu citadel (book in advance if subject to availability).
Other optional activities in Aguas Calientes include a visit to the local museum or to the hot springs (entrance fee required).
After exploring the wonderful Llaqta of Machupicchu, you will descend to Aguas Calientes, you will have lunch on your own and then board the train at 14:55 or according to availability, for the return trip on the Expedition train to Ollantaytambo train station. Here is where you will meet our private transport and be transferred to your hotel in Cusco.
What to Bring
It is required to bring for Salkantay Trek
- Original passport (the same one that you used to book the trek)
- Valid university student card (if you have booked as a student)
- Good backpack (the best size 35L recommended)
- Water bottle: 2 L (Camelback recommended)
- Comfortable hiking shoes with ankle support.
- Sleeping bag (You can rent at Eco Tour Cusco)
- Head torch: required
- Toilet paper
It is required to bring for Salkantay Trek
Must to carry in duffle bag
We are straight tour operators, we provide you with a duffle back, at the briefing on the way to Salkantay you will have more information about an additional porter, who will carry 7 kgs / 14 lbs, including your 2.5 kg sleeping bag, mattress and additional clothing.
- 4 T-shirts.
- 2 hiking trousers.
- 4 sets of underwear.
- 4 sets of socks.
- Thermal Jacket.
- Warm jacket, Warm clothing.
- Waterproof gloves.
- Comfortable shoes or sandals for the camp.
- Solar battery charger:
- Sleeping bag: must be at least -15°C. It can be rented from us for $25 USD.
How to book the Salkantay Trek 5 days
Check availability for the date you wish to trek Salkantay: offered by the Peruvian government or consult with our team here.
Once the availability for your departure date has been confirmed, make your reservation by making a deposit of US$20 per person by clicking on the “Book Now!” button.
Important information
To climb Huayna Picchu Mountain:
You must request this permit at the same time as your reservation for the Inca Trail. Huayna Picchu is the mountain within the Citadel of Machu Picchu – the one in all the classic photos. It is quite popular and it is also extraordinary to be able to climb it, requiring moderate physical effort, though it is very steep. From the top you will have an incredible view. It takes about 2 hours roundtrip. Permits are limited and sell out quickly.
- Additional cost: US$17.00.
To climb Machu Picchu Mountain:
From the top you have an extraordinary view of the surrounding area. This climb is quite challenging and takes 4 hours roundtrip. Permits are limited.
- Additional cost: US$17.00
Cancellation Policy:
Within 15 days of the start date of the tour, the cancellation penalty is 100% of your deposit.
Within 14 days of the start date of the tour, the cancellation penalty is 100% of the total cost of the tour.
To Make Your Reservation:
- Make your reservation by making a deposit of US$200 per person by clicking on the “Book Now!”
- The balance will need to be paid 31 days prior to the start of your trek. We will send you a reminder by email that the payment is due.
- After making your deposit, please be sure to fill in our reservation form.
- On our webpage, you can make your deposit with Visa, Mastercard or American Express or Diners Club card. You may want to notify your bank before initiating the deposit, as out-of-country expenditures sometimes trigger a block on your card, requiring a call to confirm that you initiated the transaction.
- You can also send your deposit via PayPal.
- The balance will need to be paid 31 days prior to the start of your trek. We will send you a reminder by email that the payment is due.
- We will respond within 24 hours to confirm your reservation and trek date and your.
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