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Salkantay Trek

5D/4N

Image by Eddie Kiszka

Day 1
Day 2
Day 3
Day 4
Day 5
Cusco – Mollepata – Soraypampa – Humantay Lake

The adventure begins early in the morning with pick-up from your hotel in Cusco and private transportation to Mollepata, where we stop for breakfast. We then continue to Soraypampa, the starting point of the trek.

The hike starts with an easy trail and gradually becomes steeper as we ascend toward Humantay Lake. After about 1 hour and 30 minutes of climbing, you’ll reach the lake, famous for its stunning turquoise color and its sacred significance to local communities.

After spending time at the lake and taking photos, we return to the campsite for lunch. In the afternoon, you’ll meet the support team and have time to rest and acclimate, preparing for the next days of the adventure.
Soraypampa – Salkantay Pass – Chaullay

We start very early, as this is the most challenging day of the trek due to altitude and distance. After breakfast, we hike uphill through varied terrain, including the famous “Seven Snakes” section, until reaching the impressive Salkantay Pass at 4,650 meters above sea level.

At the summit, near the sacred Salkantay Glacier, you’ll enjoy breathtaking views while your expert guide explains the cultural and spiritual significance of this important Andean site. There will be time to rest, take photos, and appreciate the surrounding peaks before beginning the descent.

After lunch at Huayraqmachay, the scenery changes dramatically as we descend from the high Andes into a warmer, greener landscape that marks the start of the Peruvian Amazon. By late afternoon, we arrive at Chaullay, our campsite for the night, after experiencing one of the most spectacular and rewarding days of the trek.
Sahuayaco – Coffee Experience – Zipline – Cocalmayo Hot Springs

Day 3 offers a lighter and scenic walk through the lush high Andean jungle, where you may spot local wildlife, especially colorful birds, as we hike toward Sahuayaco, our lunch and rest stop.

In the afternoon, you’ll enjoy three unique experiences: a coffee tour at a local plantation to learn the process from bean to cup, an exciting zip line adventure with multiple cables and stunning views, and a relaxing visit to the Cocalmayo Hot Springs, perfect for easing tired muscles.

Private transportation is included to reach the zip line and hot springs. This day is designed to be restful yet enriching, allowing you to recover physically while enjoying local culture, adventure, and relaxation before the next trekking day.
Sahuayaco – Llactapata – Hydroelectric Power Plant – Aguas Calientes

We begin very early, just before sunrise, on what is the longest and most demanding day of the trek. The day starts with a steep ascent along an original Inca trail, still used by local communities, offering a memorable sunrise along the way.

After reaching the high pass, we descend to the archaeological site of Llactapata, where you’ll enjoy a first distant view of Machu Picchu. We then continue downhill to the Hydroelectric Power Plant for a well-deserved lunch and short rest.

In the afternoon, the trail becomes flat and easier as we walk alongside the railway tracks to Aguas Calientes. Upon arrival, you’ll check into your hotel and enjoy dinner, with optional alternatives available such as vehicle or train transportation to reduce hiking time if needed.
Machu Picchu – Return to Cusco

The day begins early with breakfast at the hotel, followed by a bus ride to Machu Picchu. Upon arrival, you’ll enjoy a guided two-hour tour of the most important areas of the citadel, learning about the history and significance of this iconic Inca site.

If included in your package, you may hike Machu Picchu Mountain or Huayna Picchu after the guided tour. You’ll also have free time to explore the citadel, take photos, and fully enjoy the unique atmosphere of this World Wonder.

Later, you’ll return by bus to Aguas Calientes, then take the train to Ollantaytambo, where private transportation will be waiting to transfer you back to Cusco, marking the end of an unforgettable adventure.
✅ Transportation – first day

✅ 4 breakfasts, 4 lunches, 4 dinners

✅ Bilingual guide

✅ Zip line

✅ Transportation to the hot springs

✅ Entrance fee to the hot springs

✅ Hotel – 4th night (Aguas Calientes)

✅ Entrance to Machu Picchu

✅ Entrance to Machu Picchu or Huayna Picchu Mountain

✅ Return train to Ollantaytambo

✅ Transportation from Ollantaytambo to Cusco

✅ Tent for four people for every two persons

✅ Inflatable mattress and pillow (Thermarest)

✅ Kitchen tent

✅ Dining tent with tables and chairs

✅ Bathroom tent with portable toilet

✅ Expert chef and kitchen assistant

✅ Wranglers and horses to carry all equipment (food, tents, chairs, tables, etc.)

✅ Horse to carry 8 kg of your personal belongings

✅ Duffel bag for personal belongings

✅ Emergency horse (if needed)

✅ Hot water for washing

✅ Daily boiled and cold water to refill bottles

✅ Emergency oxygen bottle and medical kit

✅ Expedition train ticket from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo

✅ Private transportation by van from Ollantaytambo to Cusco

✅ Ticket to Huayna Picchu Mountain

✅ Round-trip bus from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu

✅ Coffee plantation tour (Day 3 afternoon)

✅ Lodging in Aguas Calientes – Night 4 (double occupancy)

✅ Dinner in Aguas Calientes – Night 4

✅ Train ticket from Hidroeléctrica to Aguas Calientes
❌ First breakfast

❌ Last lunch (Day 5 in Aguas Calientes)

❌ Sleeping bag

❌ Drinks

❌ Horses to ride

❌ Tips for the crew (muleteers, chef, and guide)

❌ Hiking poles

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Image by Ruben Hanssen

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Activity Level

Challenging

Departures

Daily

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Group Size

Up to 12

Image by Ruben Hanssen

Embark on one of the most breathtaking trekking adventures in Peru—the Salkantay Trek. This alternative route to Machu Picchu takes you through majestic snow-capped peaks, lush cloud forests, and remote Andean villages, offering a powerful connection with nature and Inca history. Recognized as one of the most scenic treks in the world, the Salkantay route is perfect for travelers seeking challenge, beauty, and unforgettable moments on their way to the legendary citadel of Machu Picchu.

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