Embark on the Salkantay Trek 5 days, a truly unique journey through some of the most stunning landscapes on Earth. Not only will you witness towering snow-capped peaks, but you will also explore mystical cloud forests and lush valleys. Moreover, the trek follows ancient Inca pathways, connecting you with the rich cultural heritage of the Andes.
Therefore, by the end of the trek, you will have crossed the Salkantay Pass (4,630m/15,190ft), seen panoramic views of the majestic Andes, and experienced pristine wilderness. Furthermore, you will have the opportunity to relax in hot springs, marvel at turquoise glacial lakes, and sleep under the stars. Ultimately, the adventure concludes with your arrival at the iconic Machu Picchu.
Tour Itinerary:
Day 1: Cusco to Humantay Lake and Salkantaypampa
We begin early with a 5:00 AM pickup. Following that, we embark on a scenic three-hour drive to Mollepata. Along the way, enjoy breathtaking views of the Salkantay and Veronica mountains, as well as the lush valleys we pass through.
Once we arrive at Soraypampa, we stop for breakfast. Afterward, we begin our hike to Humantay Lake (4,200m / 13,779ft). The turquoise waters, surrounded by towering peaks, are truly awe-inspiring. Once we reach the lake, we take a moment to appreciate its beauty before heading back to Soraypampa for lunch. From there, we continue uphill to Salkantaypampa (4,150m / 13,615ft), where we’ll camp for the night. As a result, you will enjoy a peaceful night under the starry sky, far from city lights, all part of the Salkantay trek 5 days adventure.
Hiking Distance: 8 km / 4.97 miles
Elevation Gain: 731m / 2,398ft
Difficulty: Moderate to Challenging
Campsite Altitude: 4,220m / 13,779ft
Day 2: Salkantay Pass to Collpapampa
Today’s journey starts early as we head toward the Salkantay Pass (4,620m / 15,255ft). Once we reach the pass, you’ll be rewarded with spectacular views of the Salkantay Mountain (6,217m / 20,341ft). If we’re lucky, we may spot chinchillas in the rocky terrain.
After taking in the views, we begin our descent for three hours to Huayracmachay. Here, we will enjoy a hearty lunch before continuing our descent into the lush cloud forest. As the landscape becomes increasingly tropical, we continue our hike. Eventually, after another three hours, we will arrive at Collpapampa (2,900m / 9,514ft). At this point, the temperature warms up and the scenery turns greener, and this is only one of the breathtaking experiences of the Salkantay trek 5 days.
Hiking Distance: 18 km / 11.18 miles
Elevation Gain: 562m / 1,843ft
Total Descent: 1,900m / 6,233ft
Difficulty: Challenging
Campsite Altitude: 2,900m / 9,514ft
Day 3: Into the Jungle and Lucmabamba
Today, we begin our trek into the heart of the Peruvian jungle. As we follow the Salkantay River, you’ll encounter tropical plantations and local fruit trees, including bananas, avocados, and passion fruit. In addition, keep an eye out for Peru’s national bird, the Cock of the Rock, which flaunts its striking red plumage.
After about seven hours of hiking, we’ll reach Lucmabamba, a small town famous for its coffee farms. Here, you’ll experience the full coffee-making process, from harvesting to roasting. Consequently, you’ll brew your own freshly roasted coffee, enhancing the cultural experience of your journey during the Salkantay trek 5 days.
Hiking Distance: 15 km / 9.32 miles
Elevation Gain: 229m / 751ft
Total Descent: 999m / 3,277ft
Difficulty: Moderate
Campsite Altitude: 2,900m / 9,514ft
Day 4: Llactapata, Hydroelectric, and Aguas Calientes
We begin with an early hike to Llactapata, an ancient Incan site offering a stunning, less-visited view of Machu Picchu. Along the way, you’ll pass vibrant flora and fauna, including orchids and butterflies. Once at Llactapata, we’ll explore the ruins before descending into the Aobamba Valley.
After lunch, we head toward the Hidroelectrica station. From there, we’ll board a scenic 45-minute train ride to Aguas Calientes, the town at the base of Machu Picchu. Upon arrival, we’ll check into a 3-star hotel and enjoy a celebratory dinner together, rounding out the final day of the Salkantay trek 5 days.
Hiking Distance: 12 km / 7.45 miles
Elevation Gain: 828m / 2,716ft
Total Descent: 1,054m / 3,458ft
Difficulty: Moderate to Challenging
Accommodation: 3-star hotel in Aguas Calientes
Day 5: Machu Picchu and Return to Cusco
On the final day, we start with an early bus ride to Machu Picchu to catch the sunrise. When we arrive, we head straight to the viewpoint for panoramic photos.
Our expert guide will lead a two-hour tour, revealing the history, architecture, and spiritual significance of Machu Picchu. Afterward, you’ll have free time to explore the site. Furthermore, if you’ve booked it in advance, you can hike Huayna Picchu for a more challenging experience with breathtaking views. Later in the afternoon, we will return to Aguas Calientes by train, followed by a bus ride back to Cusco.
Tour: Guided visit to Machu Picchu
Optional: Huayna Picchu hike ($65 per person)
Meals: Breakfast
Return to Cusco: By train and bus
