Embark on the ultimate 5-Day Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu, globally recognized by National Geographic as one of the best adventure treks in the world. This classic 5 days 4 nights hiking tour from Cusco is the premier, uncrowded alternative to the Inca Trail, designed for travelers seeking an immersive journey through diverse Peruvian landscapes—from snow-capped Andean peaks to lush tropical high jungles.
Our premium small-group trekking expedition combines high-altitude adventure with unmatched camp comfort. Escape the overcrowded traditional routes and discover the raw, untouched beauty of the Vilcabamba mountain range. Stand in awe before majestic glaciers, walk through misty cloud forests, and follow the footsteps of the Incas to the world wonder of Machu Picchu.
Activity location
SORAYPAMPA
08640, Mollepata, Cuzco, Peru
Meeting/Redemption Point
SORAYPAMPA
08640, Mollepata, Cuzco, Peru
Check availability
Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu 5 Day Adventure from Cusco
Activity duration is 5 days5d
5d
English
Pickup included
Language options: English
Price details
$595.00 x 1 Adult$595.00
Total
Price is $595.00$595.00
includes taxes & fees
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What's included, what's not
Inclusions
4 days Lunch
Inclusions
Carry up to 5 kg (11 lbs) of your personal belongings throughout the trek.
Inclusions
4 nights of dinner
Inclusions
Train Tickets coming back from Machu Picchu to Cusco
Inclusions
Two professional guides: one leads the group while the other stays with the last hiker.
Inclusions
24/7 dedicated customer support and assistance.
Inclusions
4 nights accomodation
Inclusions
Machu Picchu entry tickets
Inclusions
5 days breakfast
Exclusions
personal expenses
Know before you book
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Activity itinerary
Day 1: Cusco to Soraypampa via Mollepata | Humantay Lake & Salkantay Trek Adventure
1 stop
Meals: breakfast, lunch, snacks
Accommodation: Not included
SORAYPAMPA
3h
Admission ticket not included
Start your unforgettable 5-Day Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu with an early morning hotel pickup in Cusco and a scenic drive to Mollepata (2,700 m / 8,858 ft), the gateway to one of Peru's most spectacular hiking adventures. Continue to Challacancha, where your Salkantay Trek officially begins. Hike through breathtaking Andean landscapes to Soraypampa (3,900 m / 12,795 ft) and enjoy a freshly prepared lunch by our professional trekking chef. In the afternoon, take a rewarding hike to the world-famous Humantay Lake, renowned for its crystal-clear turquoise waters and dramatic mountain scenery—one of the most iconic highlights of the Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu. Return to camp in Soraypampa to relax and savor a delicious dinner before spending the night surrounded by the majestic Andes.
Day 2: Day 2: Soraypampa to Chaullay via Salkantay Pass | Epic Andes Hiking Adventure
1 stop
Meals: breakfast, lunch, snacks
Accommodation: Not included
CHAULLAY
8h
Admission ticket included
Day 2 is the most spectacular and rewarding stage of the 5-Day Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu. After an early breakfast, begin your ascent to the legendary Salkantay Pass (4,630 m / 15,190 ft), the highest point of the trek. Along this unforgettable hike, marvel at towering snow-capped peaks, breathtaking glacier views, and the majestic beauty of the Peruvian Andes. Pause at the summit to capture incredible photos and participate in a traditional Andean offering, asking for a safe and successful journey. Continue your adventure with a scenic descent to Wayraqmachay, where you'll enjoy a freshly prepared lunch before entering the lush Cloud Forest, a dramatic transition from alpine landscapes to vibrant tropical vegetation. End the day at Chaullay Camp, where a delicious dinner and a comfortable campsite await after one of the world's most iconic hiking experiences.
Day 3: Day 3: Chaullay to Lucmabamba | Cloud Forest & Coffee Farm Experience
1 stop
Meals: breakfast, lunch, snacks
Accommodation: Not included
Lucmabamba Coffee Experience
8h
Admission ticket included
Day 3 offers one of the most scenic and diverse experiences of the 5-Day Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu. After an early breakfast, embark on a 5–7-hour hike through the lush Peruvian Cloud Forest, where breathtaking landscapes, waterfalls, exotic wildlife, and vibrant orchids create an unforgettable trekking experience. Follow ancient Inca trails past the archaeological sites of Wiñaypoco and Lluskamayu, surrounded by rich tropical vegetation. Arrive at La Playa for a delicious, freshly prepared lunch before continuing on a scenic 2-hour walk through picturesque coffee plantations, avocado fields, and fruit orchards to Lucmabamba, your peaceful campsite for the night. Relax with a freshly prepared dinner and immerse yourself in the natural beauty of one of the most spectacular sections of the Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu.
Day 4: Day 4: Lucmabamba – Llactapata – Hydroelectric – Aguas Calientes | First View of Machu Picchu
1 stop
Meals: breakfast, lunch, snacks
Accommodation: Not included
Aguas Calientes
6h
Day 4: Lucmabamba – Llaqtapata Inca Ruins – Hidroeléctrica – Aguas Calientes
Set off between 7:00 AM and 8:00 AM for the most rewarding day of the trek! Hike an authentic, hidden section of the Inca Trail to the Llaqtapata archaeological site, arriving around noon. Here, you’ll witness a breathtaking, exclusive view of Machu Picchu from directly across the mountain ridge.
Continue your descent to Hidroeléctrica for a delicious lunch, followed by a flat, scenic 3-hour hike along the jungle train path to Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu Pueblo). After checking into your cozy hotel for some well-deserved rest, celebrate the night before your big citadel tour with a delightful dinner at a local restaurant.
Day 5: Day 5: Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu Guided Tour – Return to Cusco | UNESCO World Heritage Site
1 stop
Meals: breakfast
Accommodation: Not included
Hot Springs (Aguas Calientes)
7m
Admission ticket included
Day 5 is the unforgettable finale of your 5-Day Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu. Rise early and join your expert guide for a 30-minute bus ride to the legendary Machu Picchu, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. Enjoy a guided tour of its most iconic landmarks, including the Temple of the Sun, Main Plaza, Sacred Fountains, Temple of the Three Windows, and the famous Intihuatana Stone, while learning about the remarkable Inca civilization. After the tour, enjoy free time to capture breathtaking photos and admire the spectacular views. Return by bus to Aguas Calientes for lunch before boarding your scenic train to Ollantaytambo, where our representative will transfer you to your hotel in Cusco, concluding your unforgettable Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu adventure.
Location
Activity location
LOB_ACTIVITIESLOB_ACTIVITIES
SORAYPAMPA
08640, Mollepata, Cuzco, Peru
Meeting/Redemption Point
PEOPLEPEOPLE
SORAYPAMPA
08640, Mollepata, Cuzco, Peru
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