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Salkantay Trek - 5 days

Where the majesty of the Andes meets the warmth of its valleys

  • Duration 5 days / 4 nights
  • From 1392.00 USD
Salkantay Trek - 5 days

Set out on a sacred 5-day pilgrimage to Machu Picchu along the majestic Salkantay route. Hike among glaciers, turquoise lakes and cloud forests, in the heart of breathtaking Andean nature.

Far more than a trek, this is a deep cultural immersion: you camp at the foot of the majestic Apu Salkantay and share evenings with local families, discovering their traditions and their warmth.

With expert guides, flawless logistics and genuine hospitality, this transformative adventure is an invitation to share. Machu Picchu awaits, but the real treasure lies all along the way.

Service options and prices

Same itinerary, different group format. Prices are per person.

Shared group

Group: Small group

1392.00 USD

per person

Adult price per person, all inclusive: private transport, trains, camping and homestay accommodation, Machu Picchu entrance and full professional support.

  • Flexible pace: the itinerary adapts to the group.
  • Regular departures according to the calendar.
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Itinerary

Glaciers, cloud forests, living culture and Machu Picchu. An epic journey for adventurous souls, across ecosystems, cultures and emotions.

  1. Before departure Briefing

    The day before, at the agreed time, your trek begins with a preparation session with your expert guide, who answers all your questions and finalises the logistics so you can set off with complete peace of mind.

  2. Day 1 Cusco - Soraypampa - Soyrococha
    • Distance 7 km
    • Duration 5 to 6 hours
    • Max. altitude 4,480 m
    • Min. altitude 3,950 m

    We leave Cusco early in our private van, crossing magnificent Andean landscapes with stops at Mollepata and the archaeological site of Killarumiyuc, known as the "cradle of Inca astronomy".

    After an invigorating breakfast we begin our hike towards Humantay lake and Soyrococha, surrounded by snow-capped peaks and sacred mountains.

    We spend the night at the foot of the imposing Apu Salkantay, enjoying its mystical presence under a starry sky.

  3. Day 2 Soyrococha - Collpapampa
    • Distance 16 km
    • Duration 7 to 9 hours
    • Max. altitude 4,600 m
    • Min. altitude 2,950 m

    At dawn we admire the majestic Salkantay glacier. After a hearty breakfast we reach the Salkantay pass (4,600 m), the highest point of the route, where breathtaking panoramas over glaciers, turquoise lakes and valleys leave us speechless.

    We begin the descent through varied terrain, crossing the cloud forest, until we reach the community of Collpapampa, where a local family welcomes us for a warm dinner.

  4. Day 3 Collpapampa - Lucmabamba
    • Distance 15 km
    • Duration 5 to 6 hours
    • Max. altitude 2,950 m
    • Min. altitude 1,850 m

    We venture into the lush cloud forest, rich in exceptional biodiversity and varied microclimates. We walk among coffee, banana, avocado and tea plantations, and discover the daily life of local communities.

    Here we have the chance to take part in harvesting local produce and learn about organic coffee production. We end the day at Lucmabamba, staying with a host family.

  5. Day 4 Lucmabamba - hydroelectric station - Aguas Calientes
    • Distance 12 km
    • Duration 5 to 6 hours
    • Max. altitude 2,500 m
    • Min. altitude 1,850 m

    We start the day with the climb to Llactapata (2,740 m), an impressive archaeological site offering a unique panoramic view of Machu Picchu, surrounded by green mountains and the winding Urubamba river.

    After enjoying this privileged moment we descend through trails lined with dense vegetation to Hidroelectrica, where we take the train to Aguas Calientes to rest in a comfortable hotel.

  6. Day 5 Aguas Calientes - Machu Picchu - Cusco

    Early in the morning we take the first bus to Machu Picchu, where we watch the sunrise over the Inca citadel. On the guided tour we explore the temples, terraces and sacred squares, and uncover the secrets of this wonder of the world.

    After an unforgettable excursion we head down to Aguas Calientes (2,050 m), have lunch and take the train back to Cusco, the finale of this unforgettable journey.

Trip highlights

  • A visual and climatic tapestry: from glacial summits to high-altitude lakes, cloud forests and jungle valleys, striking contrasts that awaken every sense.
  • Genuine cultural immersion: two nights with local Andean families, sharing meals, traditions and stories.
  • A complete trekking experience: from the Salkantay pass (4,600 m) to sacred trails such as Llactapata, with gentler stretches for reflection.
  • Exclusive views of Machu Picchu: from Llactapata, a unique and little-known panorama of the citadel before you even arrive.
  • Warm hospitality and authentic cuisine: every meal is prepared with fresh, local ingredients and traditional Andean recipes.
  • Flawless logistics: private transport, trains, camping and homestay accommodation, Machu Picchu entrance and full professional support.
  • Flexible pace and intimacy: the itinerary adapts to your rhythm and style, with time to share, reflect or simply take in the surroundings.

What is included

Permits, entrances and accommodation

  • Machu Picchu entrance ticket (circuit assigned subject to availability).
  • Entrance to the Humantay lake sector.
  • 2 nights in premium camping and 1 homestay night in Lucmabamba.
  • 1 night in a comfortable hotel in Aguas Calientes.

Transport and tourist train

  • Private van: Cusco - Mollepata - Soraypampa (trek start).
  • Train: Hidroelectrica - Aguas Calientes.
  • Bus: Aguas Calientes ↔ Machu Picchu.
  • Train and private transfer: Aguas Calientes - Ollantaytambo - Cusco.

Pre-trek briefing

  • The day before your trek, meet your guide for an exclusive orientation session: key itinerary points, answers to your questions and recommendations to prepare yourself mentally and physically.

Expert trekking guide

  • Over 12 years of trekking experience and deep knowledge of Andean history, nature and culture.
  • Skills in group leadership, team cohesion and emotional intelligence.
  • Fluent English for smooth communication.
  • Certified in first aid, high-mountain rescue and emergency group management.

Specialised mountain chef

  • Over 10 years of experience in Peruvian and international cuisine.
  • Healthy, nourishing dishes designed for altitude and the needs of hikers.

Local porters

  • From neighbouring Andean communities, with deep knowledge of the terrain and a strong spirit of service.
  • They handle all the equipment and the logistics of the expedition.
  • Personal porter service (8 kg) included for your essentials (the sleeping bag counts towards the total weight).

Gourmet meals on the trail

  • Every dish is prepared with fresh, local ingredients.
  • Breakfasts: fresh fruit, yoghurt, oatmeal, pancakes, scrambled eggs, bread, jams, coffee, tea, hot chocolate.
  • Daily snacks: fruit, biscuits, nuts and chocolate.
  • Buffet lunches: hot soups, 3 to 4 main dishes to choose from, salads, desserts and hot drinks.
  • Afternoon tea: popcorn, biscuits, coffee, hot chocolate and a selection of Andean teas.
  • Dinners: soups, chicken, pasta, vegetables and varied options.
  • Safe drinking water, boiled and filtered, available from lunch on the first day.
  • Vegetarian, vegan and special diets available at no extra cost.

Premium camping equipment

  • 4-season high-mountain tents from trusted brands (The North Face, Eureka, Mountain Hardwear).
  • Therm-a-Rest inflatable mattresses for warm, comfortable sleep.
  • Individual pillows and extra blankets on request.
  • Trekking poles for knee support and balance.
  • Spacious dining tent with tables, chairs, tablecloths and full tableware.
  • Fully equipped kitchen tent.
  • Eco-friendly portable toilets with a water pump system for extra comfort and hygiene.

Safety and emergency equipment

  • Satellite phone for emergency communication at any time.
  • Long-range radios (10 km) with 8 channels for team coordination.
  • Remote medical assistance via satellite phone.
  • Complete first-aid kit: essential medication, bandages, rehydration salts, burn cream, splints, blood-pressure monitor and thermometer.
  • Note: our guides are not authorised to prescribe or administer medication. Please bring your own prescription medicines.

Not included

  • Breakfast on the first day and the final meal back in Cusco.
  • Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain entrance ticket (optional, limited places, book in advance).
  • Tips for guides, porters and cooks: never compulsory, but always appreciated.
  • Travel insurance: strongly recommended. Choose cover including medical emergencies, cancellations and delays.
  • Additional porter if you need to carry more than 8 kg (request when booking).
  • The last lunch in Aguas Calientes: use your free time to choose a local meal of your choice.

Interested in this trip?

Write to us and we will arrange your departure, at your pace and with your dates.

Request a quote