Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu 5 Days 4 Nights is the most popular of the alternative treks to Machu Picchu. The trek is located in the Vilcabamba mountain range and passes through stunning landscapes varying from the cloud forest to the high mountains.
The trek offers stunning views of Salkantay, the second-highest peak in the Cusco region, towering at 6,271m (19,685ft). This adventure is perfect for those seeking a true wilderness experience, passing through remote, less-visited areas. It blends rich cultural traditions with the remarkable biodiversity of Peru.
As you journey through the heart of the Andes, you’ll experience the region’s authentic spirit and immerse yourself in the breathtaking landscapes that define life in this extraordinary part of the world.
Overview
Overview:
The Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu 5 Days 4 Nights is the number one alternative to the Inca Trail. With high snow-capped mountains, lowland jungle and a visit to the Inca site of Llactapata the trek offers a perfect mix of trekking, culture and nature.
With fewer people on the route the Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu 5 Days 4 Nights allows you to enjoy the natural beauty of the Andes without any of the distractions and disturbances you find on the Inca Trail
By booking your Salkantay Trek 5 Days 4 Nights with Cusco Journeys & Adventure you are choosing the best. Don’t believe us? Check out our reviews on TripAdvisor!
Itinerary
Itinerary:
Pre-trek briefing:
You will have an exhaustive information session with your guide 1 or 2 days before your Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu 5 Days 4 Nights. Your guide is allowed in your hotel and can take this opportunity to ask questions and make final preparations.
Day 01 : Cusco – Mollepata – Humantay Lake – Soraypampa.
We start to pick up you on the hotel around 05:00 am, the bus driving taking 2 hours to Mollepata through the bus is clearly to see the white snow capped mountain like Salkantay and Humantay, the holy Gods of the Incas, the spectacular scenic on the upper part and lower valleys with colorful landscape.
Two hours driving at head the first stop in Mollepata town there are toilet facilities, souvenirs and optional short breakfast, to soon continue at Challa Cancha the trail head. There we will meet with our support staff. There we will organize all the equipment, horses and mules.
Around 9:30 a.m. we will start our trek to Soraypampa (3850 m.a.s.l) the first section of the path are paved rock trail there are the old water channel still supply to new habitants, the begin is 8 km in 3 hours to Soraypampa the lunch place as well base camp.
After lunch and nap to continued hiking up to the Humantay lake (4200 masl) 3 km in 2 hours round trip, bottom the glacier the most spectacular views to the back ground valley and sunset, Soraypampa is located on the middle of the glaciers valleys at night clear appreciate the constellation on the sky.
- Meals:Lunch, Dinner.
- Accommodation: Camping.
- Maximum Altitude: 4150 masl.
- Minimum Altitude: 2850 masl.
- Distance Travelled: 11km approx.
Day 02 : Soraypampa – Salkantay Pass – Huayracmachay – Chaullay.
Today, nature will change drastically from dry sceneries to snowy peaks and tropical areas. After a nutritious breakfast, we will start the most difficult part of the trek. We will start the hike around 6:30 in the morning.
We will hike to a place called Salkantaypampa, Soyrococha, then go toward the left side of the snowy peaks of Umantay located next to the Apu Salkantay. At midday, we will be on the highest point (4617 meters above sea level). We will appreciate spectacular views of the mountains and the imposing snowy peaks of the Salkantay (6264 meters above sea level) which is known as the second highest point of the Cusco region.
Around 1:00 p.m., we will have our lunch, in the area called Huayracmachay. The walk downwards is on a serpent shape trail and a rocky gravel path to get to the Huayracmachay lunch spot. In the afternoon we will enter the upper part of the amazon jungle, which is also called “the cloud forest”. This is a 10 km (6.2miles) hike in 3 hours on a wide trail in the thick forests. This hike is truly beautiful, there are decorated the hills with colorful sceneries and a lot of wildlife and native plants.
The forests are most times of the year warm or have a temperate temperature. When finishing this magnificent hike we finally arrive at Colpapampa Village (2900 masl), our base camp in the jungle.
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.
- Accommodation: Camping.
- Maximum Altitude: 4617 masl.
- Minimum Altitude: 2920 masl.
- Distance Travelled: 23 km.
Day 03 : Chaullay – Colpapampa – Playa Sahuayaco– Lucmabamba.
At 6:00 am. we will start our trek to La Playa through the Santa Teresa valley. We will be hiking for approximately 6 hours. During the hike we’ll see waterfalls, wild orchids, but also coffee, banana and avocado plantations. Here you can taste the famous passion fruit and granadilla fruit.
We will see a village called Colpapampa, also called the “forest cloudy brow” where waterfalls, thermal hot springs, fruit-bearing trees, varied flora and birds can be observed. If we are lucky, we will be able to see the famous bird called “the Cock of the Rocks” this bird is the national bird of Peru.
After lunch at La playa, we will hike for approximately 1 hour to our base camp called Lucmabamba (2400 masl). We will explore the tropical forest for a little while and have a lovely visit at an organic coffee farm.
Here you can taste the coffee prepared by the local people. Coffee is the main farming industry of the local people here in the jungle and they farm many hectares of coffee to export to the USA, Asia and Europe. Coffee was first discovered in Ethiopia, but it wasn’t until the Spanish invaded Cusco that it was brought to this region. We will also explore an orange and an avocado plantation.
******* On this day you may enjoy the Hot Springs – not included in the price.
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.
- Accommodation: Camping.
- Maximum Altitude: 2920 masl.
- Minimum Altitude: 2350 masl.
- Distance Travelled: Approx 14 km.
Days 4: Lucmabamba – Llactapata – Hidroelectric – Aguas Calientes.
The chef of the trek will wake you up early with a hot cup of coca tea served in your bed. You will get ready for today’s activity while enjoying your last prepared breakfast by the trek chef.
We will begin the hike early and you will get the opportunity to enjoy a small part of the famous Inka trail! After a climb of 2 hours with amazing views of the Santa Teresa valley we will arrive at the Llactapata Inca site right in front of Machu Picchu. This will be the first archaeological site we will see of the Lost City of the Incas and a very special place to enjoy and spend time.
We will be able to see not only the Machu Picchu ruins from this spot, but also the Huayna Picchu and the Machu Picchu Mountain. We will explore this Inca site with the guide and he will continue the history lessons about the Incas of this beautiful country and of course you will have plenty of time to take as many photos as you want.
After the Llactapata ruins, we will continue our Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu 5 Days 4 Nights with a 2 hours downhill hike. At this hike you’re always able to have views of Machu Picchu until we arrive at the Hidroelectrica train station which is our lunch place. The most impressive part of this area is the natural waterfall of 300 meters high which generates the electricity for the region of Cusco.
We will then arrive at the famous Intiwatana. Intiwatana is an ancient rock used as a sundial in the ancient Inca times. According to history, this old Inca stone used to work with the famous sundial stone in Machu Picchu. These could measure and read the winter solstice which was the beginning of the new farming season for the Incas. After we pass this small Inca site we will reach the train rails.
Next to the rails there is a nice path to walk on; this path will take us approximately 3 hours. After the 3 hours we will arrive at Aguas Calientes, which is located at the foot of Machu Picchu. This section is very interesting because it is the trail that was used by the American Professor Hiram Bingham who rediscovered Machu Picchu after centuries of it being lost.
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.
- Maximum Altitude: 2350 masl.
- Minimum Altitude: 2000 masl.
- Distance Travelled: 18km aprox.
Day 05: Aguas Calientes – MachuPicchu – Cusco
On our last day, you will get up very early to visit one of the 7 wonders of the World ¨Machu Picchu¨. At 5:30 am. We will go directly to the line to wait for the first buses to Machu Picchu.
We will arrive at the gate when the sky lights up and ascend to the top of Machu Picchu, while taking in the impressive views of the city. On a clear morning, the sunrise over Machu Picchu is magnificent; This moment is unforgettable.
Our tour guide will take you on a 2-3 hour guided tour, where we will visit the Sun Temple, Royal palace, Main Temple, Three Windows Temple and Sun Dial. It will be an unforgettable experience.
If you have booked Wayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain, you will need to coordinate with your guide for Machu Picchu visiting depending on your scheduled time to the mountain, for people not hiking any of the mountains there are some other optional activities on your own (not included in the price).
Train back to Cusco: In the afternoon you will return to the train station in Aguas Calientes for the trip back to Ollantaytambo. Upon your arrival to train station you will be transferred by car to your hotel in Cusco.
- Meals: Breakfast.
- Lowest Elevation: 2,040 m/ 6,691 ft.
- Highest Elevation: 2,440 m/ 8,052 ft.
Inclusions
Included:
- A pre-trek briefing the night before the start of your Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu 5 Days 4 Nights.
- Professional local Guide (on hike).
- Second tour guide for groups of 9+
- Private Transport and professional driver (to the starting point of hike at Challacancha).
- All entrance tickets and permits for Salkantay Trek and Machu Picchu Citadel.
- Horses or mules and Indigenous horsemen to carry.
- 1 train Ticket Service from Machu Picchu pueblo to Ollantaytambo Village (Expedition Tourist Train).
- 2 bus Tickets from Aguas Calientes town to Machu Picchu Citadel (round trip).
- Personal items to carry 6 kg/13 lb.
- 3 nights camping.
- Spacious tents / Sleeping mat.
- 1 night in a Hotel in Aguas Calientes.
- We provide a duffle for personal items.
- One Cook
- Excellent Meals (4 Breakfasts, 4 Lunches and 4 Dinners)
- Food includes pancakes, omelets, soups, fresh fruit, avocado, pasta, chicken, fish, meat, rice, all before rich in carbohydrates and suitable for trekking (Vegetarian, vegan or special diet meals upon request).
- Tea time before dinner (tea, coffee, coco, biscuits, popcorn).
- Boiled water provided from 2nd day (for drinking).
- Wake up coca tea in your tent.
- Buckets of hot water for washing in your tent every day.
- Biodegradable soap and hand cleansing gel.
- Cusco Journeys & Adventure uses walkie-talkies on all treks.
- Oxygen Tank & First aid kit.
- All local taxes.
Not Included:
- First breakfast & lunch on the last day
- Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain tickets (US$75)
- Hot springs (S/15.00 soles).
- Train ticket from Hydroelectric to Machu Picchu Town.
- Sleeping bags.
- Walking Stick.
- Extra activities such as zip line and barbecues.
- Additional horses for extra personal luggage above that of the personal item allowance.
- Travel insurance.
- Personal expenses.
- **Tips, for the crew (muleteers, chef and guide).
What do you need to bring:
Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu 5 Days 4 Nights is like any other high altitude trek, so it is essential to be well prepared. As it begins in the dead of night morning, consider to pack the following Items:
- A good daypack: Eagle Creek Afar Backpack –appropriate packs to carry your personal belongings.
- Original passport.
- Travel insurance.
- Swimwear for the hot springs of Aguas calientes Town.
- Lighter trekking boots.
- 3 pairs of trekking pants.
- Layers for variable temperatures especially at night.
- 1 rain jacket.
- 1 warm/Winter jacket.
- Thermals: wool socks, gloves, scarf, and woolen hat for cold nights.
- 4 pairs of underwear and 4 pairs of socks.
- 4 t-shirts, 2 long sleeve shirts.
- 1 good sleeping bag liner that is super lightweight and easy to pack.
- Travel-size tissues and wet wipes.
- Iron tablets and pills for altitude sickness.
- Sun protection cream (SPF 35 or higher recommended).
- Bug spray.
- Re-usable plastic or metal water container or a hydration pack such as Camel back.
- Water (only for first day hike). Then we will provide you with water throughout the hike.
- Camera and film.
- A headlamp to navigate camp in the evenings and pre-dawn mornings with spare batteries.
- Bandages or moleskin.
- Flip flops to change into at night.
- Toiletries.
- Medication (Imodium AD or something for your stomach.
- Plastic bags for dirty and wet clothes.
- Extra money for souvenirs, drinks, & tips to your staff.
- Additional Notes.
Prices
Permits are required for your chosen start date. Prices for the Salkantay Trek 5 Days 4 Nights depend on group size and are valid from March 2025 to January 2026, quoted in USD.
Group Price:$529USDPer person
A group tour means other trekkers may join you, with varying fitness levels. Our expert guides ensure the trek stays enjoyable and on pace for everyone, no matter your hiking speed.
***The tour requires at least 3 participants to operate, with a maximum of 8 people in the group for a more personalized experience.
Private Tour:
Private tours are available and priced by party size.
- 2-3 Trekkers: $689 per person
- 4-5 Trekkers: $629 per person
- 6 or more Trekkers: $599 per person
Important: The price for the Salkantay Trek 5 Days 4 Nights includes up to 6 kilos of your personal belongings carried by the mules, so there is no need to hire an additional porter.
Discounts:
- 18 to 25 years old: $25 USD Information required on student card: name of university, student name, photo of student, expiration date etc. A copy of the card is required at booking for government approval for discount.
- Under 18 years old: $205 USD Please send us a copy of your passport at the time of booking.
- Under 11 years old: $30 USD Please send us a copy of your passport at the time of booking.
Optional Extras (Need to Book in Advance):
- Machu Picchu Mountain climbing: USD 75.00 (Need to book in advance).
- Huayna Picchu Mountain climbing: USD 75.00 (Need to book in advance).
Upgrades:
Hotel Upgrades:
- Inka terra (5 star hotel) – US $380 per person per night (double occupancy).
- Hotel El Mapi (4 star hotel) – US $145 per person per night (double occupancy).
- Santuario Hotel (3+ star hotel) – US $65 per person per night (double occupancy).
Train Upgrades:
- Vistadome train -US $65 for trip from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo.
- Hiram Bingham train (deluxe) -US $585 for trip from Aguas Calientes to Poroy.
Rentals:
- Hiking poles – US$20.00
- Sleeping bag – US$25.00
- Private Tent – US$30.00
FAQs
Here are some frequently asked questions (FAQs) about the Salkantay Trek 5 Days 4 Nights, with a focus on the best options:
1.- What is the Salkantay Trek?
The Salkantay Trek is a 5-day hike through the Peruvian Andes, taking trekkers from Salkantay Mountain to Machu Picchu, offering breathtaking views, diverse landscapes, and cultural experiences.
2.- When is the best time to do the trek?
The best time is during the dry season, from May to September, when the weather is more stable. The rainy season (October to April) can make the trail muddy and slippery.
3.- What are the fitness requirements?
The trek is moderate to challenging, with high-altitude sections like the Salkantay Pass at 4,600 meters. A good level of fitness is important, especially for longer days and elevation gain.
4.- Do I need a guide?
Yes, it’s highly recommended to do the trek with a guide, especially for safety, navigation, and understanding the area’s history. Guided tours also provide meals and camping equipment.
5.- What are the highlights of the trek?
- Salkantay Mountain: Snow-capped peak and stunning views.
- Salkantay Pass: The highest point with panoramic vistas.
- Machu Picchu: The grand finale, the iconic Inca site.
6.- Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, especially during the peak season (May to September), it’s important to book early, as spaces for tours and Machu Picchu tickets are limited.
7.- Can I visit Machu Picchu after the trek?
Yes, the trek ends in Aguas Calientes, where you can take a bus to Machu Picchu to explore the ruins.
8.- What is the difficulty level of the Salkantay Trek?
The trek is considered moderate to challenging. The most difficult part is the second day, where you cross the Salkantay Pass at 4,600 meters (15,092 feet). Proper acclimatization and physical preparation are essential.9.- How do I prepare for altitude sickness?
Spend 2-3 days in Cusco to acclimatize before starting the trek. Stay hydrated, avoid alcohol, and take it slow on the trail. If you feel symptoms of altitude sickness (headache, dizziness), rest and hydrate.
10.- Are there shorter options for the Salkantay Trek?
Yes, there are alternative shorter treks, such as the 3, 4-day Salkantay Trek, which skips some acclimatization but still offers incredible scenery and leads to Machu Picchu.
11.- Is it safe to do the Salkantay Trek?
Yes, the trek is generally safe, especially with a guide. However, as with any high-altitude trek, there are risks related to altitude sickness, so it’s important to listen to your guide and take necessary precautions.
12.- What kind of food is provided on the trek?
Meals are typically hearty, with a mix of Peruvian and international dishes. Expect breakfast, lunch, and dinner, with snacks along the way. Common meals include rice, quinoa, potatoes, vegetables, and meats. Special dietary requests can often be accommodated.
13.- What’s the best way to book the Salkantay Trek?
You can book through a variety of tour companies in Cusco or online. Make sure to choose a reputable operator that offers certified guides, proper safety measures, and good reviews from previous trekkers.
14.- Can I do the trek independently without a guide?
While it’s possible to do the Salkantay Trek independently, it’s not recommended, especially due to the challenging terrain and high altitudes. Also, trekking without a guide means you may miss out on the rich history and culture of the area. A licensed guide is required for Machu Picchu access as well.
15.- How do I get from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu after the trek?
From Aguas Calientes, you can take a bus up to Machu Picchu, which is a short ride (about 30 minutes). If you have time and energy, some people opt to hike up to the entrance, but the bus is the most common and convenient option. These extra options and tips can help you plan the best version of the Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu 5 Days 4 Nights, depending on your preferences and fitness level.
Terms & Conditions
By booking or participating in a tour and any related products or services (a “Tour”) with Cusco Journeys, you agree to these Terms & Conditions.
Booking:
- Your booking is confirmed and a contract exists when the Tour Operator or your travel agent issues a written confirmation after receipt of the applicable deposit amount. Please check your confirmation carefully and report any incorrect or incomplete information to the Tour Operator or authorized agent immediately. Please ensure that names are exactly as stated in the relevant passport.
- You will pay a deposit which is completely non-refundable in any situation. There are no exceptions.
- You will be required to show the original passport (not a copy) that you booked with, at the checkpoint to enter the Inca Trail. If you originally booked with an old passport and then renewed your passport, you must also bring your expired passport along with your new, valid passport to permit entry or they will refuse your entrance to the trail.
- The only acceptable ID to receive a Student Discount is your University Card with a clear expiration date that must be the same year as trek. IDs with expiry dates the following year, even though clearly valid, will not be accepted by the Peruvian government. You must submit a copy of this card at time of booking.
Cancellations:
- Cancellations: In order to confirm this trip, a deposit of 40% is required per person at time of booking. The balance of the trip price is due 90 days before the departure date. Special holiday payment and cancellation terms may apply. Guests who must cancel their trip for any reason must do so in writing (we do not accept medical notes of any kind) as our out of pocket expenses are non-refundable to us.. Standard cancellations are subject to the following per-person penalties, based on number of days prior to departure:
ONCE BOOKED, DEPOSITS ARE NON-REFUNDABLE. CHART BELOW OUTLINES WHAT FURTHER FEES WILL BE DUE.
Cancellation By
|
Terms
|
91 days or more before departure |
we will retain 50% of your deposit. |
90 – 30 days before departure |
we will retain 75% of the total tour cost. |
29 – 0 days before departure |
we will retain 100% of the total tour cost. |
Inca Trail Tours:
- Permits: Permits for the Inca Trail are in your name and can not be transferred to anyone else under any circumstances. Change of dates is also not possible once a permit has been purchased. Permits are non-refundable and non-transferable. The deposit will be forfeited. Please note that this is a regulation of the Peruvian government and not Cusco Journeys (or any agency).
- In extreme cases when the “Inca Trail to Machu Picchu” is declared closed for safety reasons, Cusco Journeys will replace your trek with an alternative trek.
- Those who booked PERMITS with a Student ID must bring that ID with them on the trek. If they fail to show this card to the Park Rangers, they will not be allowed entry onto the trail.
Medical Information:
- You must advise Cusco Journeys of any medical problems or allergies you may have. You need to be in good physical health, and if your health is questionable, then you should consult a doctor. If you are over the age of 70 years old, then you will need to present us with a current good health medical certificate.
- You are responsible for assessing whether a Tour is suitable for you. You should consult your physician to confirm your fitness for travel and participation in any planned activities. You should seek your physician’s advice on vaccinations and medical precautions. The Tour Operator does not provide medical advice. It is your responsibility to assess the risks and requirements of each aspect of the Tour based on your own unique circumstances, limitations, fitness level and medical requirements.
- Cusco Journeys reserves the right to deny you permission to travel or participate in any aspect of a Tour at any time and at your own risk and expense where the Tour Operator determines that your physical or mental condition renders you unfit for travel or you represent a danger to yourself or others.
- Pregnancy is considered a medical condition and must be disclosed to the Tour Operator at the time of booking. The Tour Operator may refuse to carry pregnant women over 24 weeks. The Tour Operator may refuse to carry anyone with certain medical conditions if reasonable accommodation or alternatives cannot be arranged.
- It is strongly encouraged to purchase Travel Insurance to protect you in case of medical emergency or any tour cancellations.
Tours and Treks:
- All balances need to be paid in either cash, Western Union, Transfer Bank or PayPal (in full) prior to the briefing which will be held the night before your tour. Visa incurs a 5% service fee and if you need to use another card, it must be through PayPal which incurs a 5.5% service fee.
You must advise your guide if you wish to leave the group or the camping area for independent walks or sightseeing. If you are experiencing any problems with the services of the guide or tour, please advise the guide in that moment, so that he can resolve any problems.
- All Adventure Treks include transportation to Cusco. The return train route depends on train availability.
- If you become ill or injured on the trail and are unable to continue, a porter will be provided to accompany you back to an area with emergency assistance capabilities. Helicopter air lifts and medical assistance are at the expense of the trekker. If you are unable to complete the tour due to illness, we will assist you in meeting your group at Machu Picchu to recommence your tour at that point. There will be no refund of the original payment. However, we will prepare a document to certify illness which can be presented for your travel insurance.
- Cusco Journeys will take all reasonable care in providing to our clients avoidance of accident, illness, and loss of personal property, and will only employ suitably qualified staff. We accept responsibility for the actions of our own employees. Cusco Journeys cannot, however, be responsible for any action of third parties. You are totally responsible for your own personal property and rented equipment.
- Cusco Journeys does not take responsibility for unfavorable weather conditions, natural catastrophe, strikes, accidents, illness, injury, loss of personal ítems, etc. It is the client’s responsibility to carry insurance to cover these types of events. We reserve the right to modify or cancel the program due to any of the unforeseen conditions listed above.
- Cusco Journeys may modify your itinerary where reasonably required in its sole discretion.
- Group tours might be as large as 16 participants. Groups are open to everyone no matter skill or age. By accepting a Group Tour you acknowledge that others might change the speed and timing of the tour.
- All tours are done in English.
Delays:
- Any costs, whether direct or incidental, incurred by the Customer as the result of delays caused by bad weather, trail conditions, river levels, road conditions, transportation delays, sickness, government intervention or other contingencies which are beyond the control of southern explorations will not be reimbursed.
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