Salkantay Hiking Tour to Machu Picchu – 5-Day Adventure
The Salkantay Hiking Tour Machupicchu is one of the best hiking routes to reach Machu Picchu, serving as an excellent alternative to the traditional Inca Trail. This 5-day, 4-night adventure takes you through breathtaking landscapes, from the high Andes to the Amazon rainforest, offering a unique experience for trekking and nature enthusiasts.
Day 1: Cusco to Humantay Lake & Camping at Quiswarniyoc
Your Salkantay trek to Machu Picchu starts with an early morning hotel pickup in Cusco between 4:30 and 5:00 AM. After gathering all participants, the journey begins with a 2-hour drive to Mollepata, where you’ll enjoy a hearty breakfast at a local restaurant before continuing to Soraypampa. Here, you’ll meet the muleteers and horses, who will carry your duffle bags for the trek.
Trek to Humantay Lagoon
The adventure begins with a gradual ascent to Humantay Lagoon (4,200m), offering breathtaking views of turquoise waters and towering Andean peaks. The hike takes about 2 hours, with time for exploration, photography, and a short briefing from your guide.
Descent to Quiswarniyoc Campsite
After soaking in the beauty of Humantay Lake, descend towards Quiswarniyoc campsite (4,000m)—a scenic spot overlooking the majestic Salkantay Mountain. Arriving around 2:00 PM, you’ll enjoy a delicious lunch and have free time for acclimatization walks. As night falls, a warm dinner will be served, followed by a briefing for the next day’s challenging ascent to Salkantay Pass.
Summary of Day 1:
- Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
- Accommodation: Mountain Sky Hut
- Hiking Distance: 10 km (6 miles)
- Elevation: 4,000m
- Difficulty Level: Moderate
- Weather: Cold and windy nights, with temperatures dropping to -5°C
Day 2: Quiswarniyoc – Salkantay Pass (4,700m) – Descent to Chawllay
Early Morning Trek to Salkantay Pass
After a 5:00 AM wake-up tea, the toughest but most rewarding part of the trek begins. The hike from Quiswarniyoc to Salkantay Pass (4,700m) takes 3 to 3.5 hours, with breathtaking views of snow-capped peaks. Your guide may conduct a traditional Andean ceremony to honor the sacred mountains.
Descending to Chawllay
After spending 30–45 minutes at the summit, begin the descent to Wayracmachay, where a well-deserved lunch awaits. The trek then continues downhill to Chawllay (2,900m), transitioning from Andean landscapes to lush Amazonian cloud forests. Expect a 9 to 10-hour trek, making this the most challenging but visually rewarding day.
Summary of Day 2:
- Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
- Accommodation: Mountain Sky Hut
- Hiking Distance: 22 km (14 miles)
- Elevation: 4,700m at Salkantay Pass, descending to 2,900m
- Difficulty Level: Challenging
- Weather: Warm and humid at lower elevations
Day 3: Santa Teresa Valley – Lucmabamba Coffee Park – Star Domes
Scenic Trek to Lucmabamba
After breakfast, begin a 4-hour hike through the lush Santa Teresa Valley. This section is rich in biodiversity, with waterfalls, fruit plantations, and native flora.
Coffee Tour & Zipline Adventure
Upon arrival in Lucmabamba, visit a local coffee farm where you’ll learn about traditional coffee cultivation, harvesting, and roasting. You’ll even brew and taste fresh Peruvian coffee!
For adventure seekers, an optional zipline experience is available before lunch.
Overnight at Star Domes
Stay in a luxurious glass Star Dome, offering stunning views of the Amazonian sky. You can also visit the Santa Teresa hot springs (extra fee), perfect for relaxation after three days of trekking.
Summary of Day 3:
- Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
- Accommodation: Star Domes
- Hiking Distance: 15 km (10 miles)
- Elevation: 2,000m
- Difficulty Level: Easy
- Weather: Hot and humid during the day, cooler at night
Day 4: Inca Trail to Llactapata – Aguas Calientes
Hike to Llactapata Ruins
Today’s trek follows an ancient Inca trail to Llactapata (2,700m), offering a unique panoramic view of Machu Picchu from a distance. The 3-hour uphill hike is moderately challenging but highly rewarding.
Descent to Hidroelectrica & Trek to Aguas Calientes
The trail continues with a 2-hour descent to Hidroelectrica, where you’ll have lunch. Afterward, the final stretch is a 3-hour walk along the railway to Aguas Calientes, where you’ll check into a hotel and enjoy dinner at a local restaurant.
Summary of Day 4:
- Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
- Accommodation: Hotel in Aguas Calientes
- Hiking Distance: 24 km (15 miles)
- Elevation: 2,700m at Llactapata, 2,000m at Aguas Calientes
- Difficulty Level: Challenging
- Weather: Hot and humid
Day 5: Machu Picchu Exploration & Return to Cusco
Sunrise at Machu Picchu
Wake up at 4:00 AM for an early breakfast before beginning the 1.5-hour hike to Machu Picchu. Alternatively, you can take a bus for a more comfortable ascent ($12, 25-minute ride). The goal is to reach Machu Picchu’s entrance by 6:00 AM.
Guided Tour of Machu Picchu
Your expert guide will lead a 2.5-hour tour, explaining the history and significance of this UNESCO World Heritage Site. Afterward, you’ll have free time for independent exploration or to climb Waynapicchu or Machu Picchu Mountain (pre-booking required).
Return Options to Cusco
By Car: Hike back 3 hours to Hidroelectrica, then take a 6-hour car ride to Cusco (arrives around 10:00 PM).
By Train: Take a train from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo (1.5 hours), then a 2-hour car ride to Cusco (arrives around 6:30 PM). This is the faster, more comfortable option.
Summary of Day 5:
- Meals Included: Breakfast
- Accommodation: Not included
- Hiking Distance: 6 km (if hiking to Machu Picchu)
- Elevation: 2,400m at Machu Picchu
- Difficulty Level: Moderate
- Weather: Warm and humid
Why Choose the Salkantay Trek?
- Unparalleled Landscapes: Snow-capped peaks, cloud forests, and Inca ruins
- Unique Cultural Immersion: Andean traditions, coffee farms, and local experiences
- Adventure & Comfort: From mountain huts to luxury domes, experience the best of both worlds
- Machu Picchu at Sunrise: Avoid crowds and experience this wonder in the morning light
Salkantay Trekking 5 Days to Machu Picchu Includes:
Accommodation:
2 nights camping (quadruple tent for two people).
1 night in domes.
1 night in Aguas Calientes.
1 night in a basic hostel with a private bathroom, hot water, Wi-Fi, TV, and breakfast.
Included in the Salkantay Trekking:
Pick-up from hotel/accommodation.
Tourist transportation from Cusco to Mollepata.
Muleteer and horses to carry equipment, food, and 5 KG of passenger luggage.
Accommodation: 1 night in domes, 2 nights in tents, 1 night in a hostel in Machu Picchu.
Return bus from Ollantaytambo to Cusco.
Emergency horse during the trek.
Official tour guide throughout the journey.
Entrance to Machu Picchu.
Meals Included in the Salkantay Trekking Tour:
Professional cook and camping/kitchen equipment.
Meals during the trek: 4 breakfasts, 4 lunches, 4 dinners.
Vegetarian meal option at no additional cost.
First aid kit during the trek.
Oxygen tank available during the trek.
Additional Transport Options:
Optional tourist train from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo ($70).
Return bus from Hidroelectrica to Cusco.
Not Included in the Salkantay Trekking Tour to Machu Picchu (5 Days):
Sleeping bag for the first night, the coldest and highest camping point (can be rented for $25 per person for 3 days, Nikko -10° down).
Breakfast on Day 1 (should be taken at your hotel or in Mollepata).
Lunch on Day 5 in Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu town).
Entrance fees to Santa Teresa hot springs (10 PEN) and Aguas Calientes hot springs (10 PEN).
Extra horse for riding or additional baggage.
Expenses not mentioned in the trek.
What You Need to Bring for the Salkantay Trekking Tour:
A comfortable and sturdy trekking backpack.
Waterproof trekking boots (recommended).
Original passport (required for entry to Machu Picchu).
Student ID card (if applicable).
Warm clothes for the night.
Rain gear (for the rainy season).
Hat or cap, binoculars.
Long pants (jeans are not recommended).
Several t-shirts, small towel, and personal items.
Sunscreen, hand sanitizer, toilet paper, tissues.
Insect repellent.
Swimsuit for the hot springs in Aguas Calientes (not included in the price).
Snacks: cookies, energy bars, chocolate, fruits, water, etc.
Water purification tablets.
Camera or video recorder.
Approx. 150 soles in cash (ATMs are available in Aguas Calientes).
(FAQs) for the Salkantay Hiking Tour to Machu Picchu – 5-Day Adventure:
1. What makes the Salkantay Trek a great alternative to the Inca Trail?
The Salkantay Trek offers stunning scenery, diverse ecosystems, and fewer crowds compared to the traditional Inca Trail. It includes high-altitude mountain passes, cloud forests, and unique accommodations like Star Domes and mountain huts.
2. How difficult is the Salkantay Trek?
The trek is considered moderate to challenging, with long hiking days and steep ascents, particularly on Day 2 when crossing the Salkantay Pass (4,700m). Proper acclimatization is recommended.
3. Do I need a permit for the Salkantay Trek?
No, unlike the Inca Trail, the Salkantay Trek does not require a special permit. However, Machu Picchu entry tickets must be purchased in advance.
4. What is the best time of year to do the Salkantay Trek?
The dry season (April to October) is the best time for trekking, with clearer skies and less rain. The wet season (November to March) brings more rain but fewer tourists.
5. What is the highest altitude on the trek?
The highest point is Salkantay Pass (4,700m / 15,420 ft). Altitude sickness can be a concern, so acclimatization in Cusco before the trek is advised.
6. What kind of accommodation is provided?
- Mountain Sky Huts on Days 1 and 2
- Star Domes on Day 3
- Hotel in Aguas Calientes on Day 4
7. Are there restroom and shower facilities on the trek?
basic restrooms are available at campsites. Showers are available in some locations, but they are cold. Hot showers can be found at Santa Teresa hot springs (for an extra fee).
8. Is drinking water provided during the trek?
filtered and boiled water is provided starting from Day 2. On Day 1, you should bring your own water or buy it along the way.
9. What meals are included in the trek?
The trek includes four breakfasts, four lunches, and four dinners. Meals are prepared by a trekking chef and cater to dietary needs if informed in advance.
10. What should I pack for the Salkantay Trek?
Essentials include:
- A good-quality backpack (25-30L)
- Layers of clothing (for cold and warm weather)
- Waterproof jacket and pants
- Hiking boots
- Headlamp or flashlight
- Sunscreen, hat, and sunglasses
- Sleeping bag (can be rented)
11. Can I rent trekking equipment?
you can rent sleeping bags, trekking poles, and duffle bags in Cusco if you don’t have your own gear.
12. How do I get back to Cusco from Machu Picchu?
By Train: The fastest and most comfortable option (Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo, then a car to Cusco).
By Car: A budget-friendly option via Hidroelectrica, followed by a 6-hour drive to Cusco.
13. Is there an option to take a bus instead of hiking to Machu Picchu?
you can take a 25-minute bus ride ($12) from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu instead of hiking for 1.5 hours.
14. Is the trek suitable for beginners?
The trek is demanding, so some hiking experience and fitness preparation are recommended. Beginners should train with cardio and endurance exercises before the trip.
15. Can I add extra activities like Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain?
but permits sell out quickly. If interested, book in advance to secure a spot for Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain hikes.
