Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu 5 days 4 nights
Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu: 5-Day Adventure
Embark on one of the world’s most breathtaking treks. The 5-day Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu is a journey designed for adventurous spirits seeking a deep connection with nature and Andean history. This ancient trail will take you from the snow-capped peaks of the Vilcabamba mountain range to the lush cloud forest of the Amazon, offering an unparalleled contrast in landscapes.
Unlike other traditional routes, this trek stands out for its wild geography and lower number of hikers, allowing for a much more intimate experience with the environment. You will hike under the imposing gaze of the snow-capped Salkantay, one of the most important sacred mountains in the Inca worldview, feeling the energy of the Andes with every step you take toward this wonder of the world.
At the end of this demanding yet rewarding journey, the reward will exceed all expectations. You will enter the majestic historical sanctuary of Machu Picchu, crowning your physical effort with a tour of the ancient stone ruins. Prepare to experience a transformative journey that will test your resilience and be etched in your memory forever.
ITINERARIO
Itinerary
The Salkantay Trek is an alternative to the Inca Trail that does not require advance booking, offering an intense experience with high points such as the Salkantay Pass (4650 m) and the Humantay Lagoon, ideal for nature and adventure lovers with moderate-high difficulty.
Day 1: Cusco – Mollepata – Soraypampa – Humantay Lake
The adventure begins early with a pickup in Cusco for the trip to the town of Mollepata. From there, we’ll begin our first hike to Soraypampa. In the afternoon, we’ll ascend to the spectacular Humantay Lagoon, a turquoise body of water guarded by glaciers, before returning to our first campsite.
Day 2: Soraypampa – Abra Salkantay – Chaullay
The most challenging and majestic day of the trek. We’ll ascend to the Salkantay Pass, the highest point of the route, where the breathtaking view of the snow-capped mountains will leave us speechless. After reaching the summit, we’ll begin a long descent that marks the transition from the Andean highlands to the cloud forest, until we arrive at our campsite in Chaullay.
Day 3: Chaullay – La Playa – Santa Teresa
The landscape changes dramatically. We’ll hike through the dense cloud forest, crossing rivers and observing waterfalls, orchids, and local coffee, banana, and avocado plantations. The hike will take us to La Playa, from where we’ll continue to the town of Santa Teresa, known for its warm climate and relaxing hot springs.
Day 4: Santa Teresa – Hydroelectric Plant – Aguas Calientes
We’ll begin our hike towards the hydroelectric plant. From there, the trail runs parallel to the train tracks, skirting the mountains that guard Machu Picchu amidst lush tropical vegetation. We’ll arrive in the town of Aguas Calientes in the afternoon, where we’ll rest at a hotel to recharge.
Day 5: Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu – Cusco
The Salkantay Trek is an alternative to the Inca Trail that does not require advance booking, offering an intense experience with high points such as the Salkantay Pass (4650 m) and the Humantay Lagoon, ideal for nature and adventure lovers with moderate-high difficulty.
INCLUDES
Includes
- Tourist transportation from Cusco to the trekking starting point.
- Professional bilingual guide specializing in high-altitude routes.
- Entrance tickets to the Salkantay Trek and the Machu Picchu citadel (corresponding circuit).
- Return train ticket (Aguas Calientes – Ollantaytambo) and ground transportation to downtown Cusco.
- Accommodation: nights of equipped camping and one night in a hotel in Aguas Calientes.
- Camping equipment: sleeping tents, basic sleeping mats, and a dining tent.
- Full board during the trekking days (breakfast, lunch, and dinner, except those listed as not included).
- Pack horses and muleteers for transporting group equipment and a portion of personal luggage.
- First-aid kit and emergency oxygen tank.
Not Include
- Sleeping bag and trekking poles (available for rent upon request).
- First breakfast on day 1 and last lunch on day 5.
- Entrance tickets to Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu (subject to availability).
- Entrance to the Cocalmayo hot springs in Santa Teresa and entrance ticket to Humantay Lagoon.
- Tips for the tour team (optional and at the passenger’s discretion).
- Travel insurance and personal medical expenses.
Recommendations
Recommendations
- Acclimate to the altitude in Cusco at least two or three days before starting the trek to prevent altitude sickness.
- Wear waterproof hiking boots with good grip, broken in beforehand to avoid blisters.
- Dress in layers. You will experience drastic temperature changes, from the freezing cold at the Salkantay Pass to the humid heat of the cloud forest.
- Bring strong mosquito repellent and high-SPF sunscreen, both essential for days of hiking in the Amazon.
- Pack smart. Carry only the essentials in your daypack (water, sunscreen, snacks, camera) and leave the rest of your gear to be carried by the pack animals.
Additional
Additional Information
- Difficulty: High. This route requires excellent physical condition, cardiovascular endurance, and prior experience in multi-day hikes.
- Maximum Altitude: 4,630 meters above sea level (Salkantay Pass).
- Minimum Altitude: 1,500 meters above sea level (Hydroelectric Plant/Santa Teresa Sector).
- Climate: Highly varied. Extreme cold with icy winds in the high mountain areas and a warm, humid, and rainy climate in the cloud forest.
- Approximate Total Distance: 70 to 74 kilometers.
- Recommended Age: Over 12 years old with mountaineering experience and under 60 years old in good health.
- Best Time to Hike: From April to November, during the dry season in the Peruvian Andes, which makes the trek easier and improves the visibility of the landscapes.
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