SALKANTAY TREK

Embark on the epic 5-day Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu, one of Peru’s most scenic and adventurous routes. Hike through snow-capped mountains, lush cloud forests, and Andean valleys before reaching the legendary Inca citadel. A perfect alternative to the Inca Trail for nature and adventure lovers.

Day 1: CUSCO – MOLLEPATA – MARKOKASA – SORAYPAMPA

  • On this day, we will pass at the foot of Apu Salkantay, witnessing the enchanting geography spread out below us. At a place known as Salkantay Pass, we will hold an Inka Ceremony, during which we will request permission to pass and have a fabulous and unforgettable journey. This ceremony is known as the “Pago a la Tierra” or Pachamama (Jaywarikuy). We will have lunch at a spot called Huayrac, then begin our descent towards Challhuay Pampa, following the course of the Salkantay River. Along the way, we will have the opportunity to see the most stunning Andean landscapes. We will camp at this location (approximately 2,900 m.a.s.l.).Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Afternoon Tea, Dinner

Day 2: SORAYPAMPA– SALKANTAY PAMPA– SALKANTAY PASS –COLLPAMPA

  • On this day, we will pass at the foot of Apu Salkantay, witnessing the enchanting geography spread out below us. At a place known as Salkantay Pass, we will hold an Inka Ceremony, during which we will request permission to pass and have a fabulous and unforgettable journey. This ceremony is known as the “Pago a la Tierra” or Pachamama (Jaywarikuy). We will have lunch at a spot called Huayrac, then begin our descent towards Challhuay Pampa, following the course of the Salkantay River. Along the way, we will have the opportunity to see the most stunning Andean landscapes. We will camp at this location (approximately 2,900 m.a.s.l.).Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Afternoon Tea, Dinner.

Day 3: COLLPAMPA – LA PLAYA-SANTA TERESA

  • The trail becomes more stable, giving us the opportunity to enjoy the hidden landscapes of this region. The high Andean jungle makes our journey even more unforgettable. We will be able to appreciate numerous species of flowers, including orchids and ferns, as well as birds of various colors. Additionally, we will have the chance to taste some local fruits such as granadilla, orange, and banana, among others.
    After lunch in the area known as La Playa, we will head to Santa Teresa, where we will set up camp.Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.

Day 4: SANTA TERESA – HIDROELÉCTRICA – MACHU PICCHU CITADEL

  • Our morning will begin in a tropical area surrounded by nature. Breakfast will be ready for us to enjoy before we continue our journey towards Aguas Calientes (also known as Machu Picchu Pueblo). Reaching this town will take approximately 7 hours, passing through the well-known Hydroelectric rest stop. Along the way, we will make several stops to appreciate the stunning landscape, featuring breathtaking waterfalls that originate from the glaciers. We will also get a glimpse of the terraces of Machu Picchu and Huayna Picchu. By the afternoon, we will arrive at Aguas Calientes, where we will spend the night in a hostel at the foot of the Inca citadel of Machu Picchu.Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.

Day 5: MACHU PICCHU – BACK TO CUSCO

  • (8:00 am) After breakfast, we take the bus to the Inca city of Machu Picchu. For approximately 2 hours, we will visit the most important sites with our guide. Afterward, you will have the opportunity to explore this mysterious city at your own pace. If you still have energy, you may also choose to climb Huayna Picchu (2720m/8923ft). It takes about 45 minutes to reach the summit. This hike is additional and optional, and you may need to leave the guided tour of Machu Picchu to secure a permit for the climb. We then take the bus back to Aguas Calientes, where we will spend the night. You will meet your guide in Aguas Calientes, and there is an optional evening visit to the town’s hot springs (admission fee: $4 USD).
    After the Machu Picchu tour, we return to Ollantaytambo and then take a bus back to Cusco, arriving around midday.Meals: Breakfast.

RECOMMENDATION

  • We recommend you to bring Original passport (and International Student Identity Card (ISIC) if applicable)
  • Sleeping bag (not included, but available for rent at our offices)
  • Hiking shoes
  • Waterproof jacket / rain poncho
  • Warm fleece jacket, hat, and gloves
  • T-shirts or tops
  • Comfortable pants
  • Sun hat
  • Sunscreen (SPF 35 recommended)
  • Insect repellent
  • Personal hygiene items
  • Personal medications
  • Camera and film
  • Flashlight with spare batteries (headlamps are useful)
  • Shorts
  • Walking stick (with rubber tip)
  • Bandages
  • Sandals
  • Extra money
  • Swimsuit (for the hot springs in Aguas Calientes, entrance fee $4 USD at the gate)
  • Transportation Cusco-Mollepata (Starting point of the hike).
  • Professional tourism guide.
  • Entrance tickets to Machu Picchu.
  • 5 breakfasts, 4 lunches, 4 afternoon snacks, 4 dinners, and various snacks throughout the day (does not include breakfast on day 1 or meals after breakfast on the last day, day 5).
  • Professional cook.
  • First aid kit.
  • 01 Oxygen tank.
  • Horses (carry tents, food, and cooking equipment).
  • Duffel bag (to store up to 6 kg of personal belongings, including a sleeping bag).
  • Horses (to carry the duffel bags).
  • Horsemen.
  • Waterproof and quadruple tents (2 people per tent).
  • 01 sleeping mat per person.
  • 01 night in a basic hotel in Aguas Calientes.
  • Personal expenses
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Activity level

Advanced

Duration

5 Days

Departure City

Cusco

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