Salkantay Trek To Machu Picchu – 4N / 5D

Conquer Salkantay Pass and discover Machu Picchu on this epic five day adventure trek.

DURATION

4 Nights / 5 Days

LOCATION

Machu Picchu

MAX ALTITUDE

4,630 m.s.n.m.

DIFFICULTY

Moderate

Salkantay Trek To Machu Picchu

Experience the Salkantay Trek To Machu Picchu through some of Peru’s most breathtaking landscapes and make the most of your journey along the Salkantay route to Machu Picchu. Hike to Humantay Lake, cross the imposing Salkantay Pass, and stay at our exclusive campsite, nestled in a quiet, secluded spot at the foot of Mount Salkantay.

Enjoy clear Andean skies, comfortable camping tents, coffee amidst nature, and a warm campfire at the base of one of Peru’s most sacred mountains.

This 5-day journey takes you to the base of Salkantay, a snow-capped peak considered one of the region’s most sacred mountains. The trek begins at an altitude of 3,883 meters (12,740 feet) at the foot of Salkantay and descends through five ecological zones to Machu Picchu—located at 2,450 meters (8,040 feet)—offering you the chance to traverse mountains, cloud forests, and jungle terrain.

Itinerary

Day 1: Cusco - Mollepata – Soraypampa – Soyrococha

Early in the morning, we will pick you up from your hotel in Cusco at 5:00 a.m. and drive for 4 hours to the start of the hike. We will stop to stretch our legs in Mollepata and then continue to the starting point of the trail, called Soraypampa, at 3,883 meters or 12,740 feet.

After a short rest, we will have the opportunity to hike to Humantay Lake, which takes approximately 2 hours. In total, we will walk around 10 km (6.2 miles) to our camp.

Once we arrive at the turquoise lagoon, we will be able to enjoy its beautiful waters. Then, we will continue walking for about an hour to our lunch spot called Salkantay Pampa.

After enjoying a good lunch and getting some rest, we will hike for about 2 more hours to our camp. Going up slowly, we will arrive at Soyrococha, which is located at 4,400 meters or 14,435 feet, making it one of the highest camps in the Cusco region.

Here, it is essential to have warm clothing, thermal clothing, and a sleeping bag that can withstand at least -20°C (-4°F), as the temperature can drop below freezing, and sometimes it can even snow.

Overnight in Soyrococha

Hiking Distance: 16 km / 9.5 mi

Duration: 8 hours

Campsite Altitude: 4,400 m / 14,432 ft

Highest Altitude: 4,600 m / 15.088 ft

Meals: Lunch, dinner, snacks, and tea

Accommodation: Campsite

Difficulty: Moderate

Day 2: Soyrococha - Rayanniyoc - Collpapampa

Breakfast at the Campsite

On the second day, we will walk a distance of 16 km (10 miles), and we will be able to see a wide variety of ecological zones.

We will start climbing for 40 minutes until we reach the Salkantay Pass at 4,635 masl (15,200 feet). Here, we can observe Salkantay Mountain, which is the highest snow-capped peak in the area at 6,264 masl (20,551 feet).

If we are lucky, we will be able to see condors or other animals such as the vizcacha, which is a relative of the chinchilla.

We will descend for 3 hours to our lunch site located in Rayanniyoc. On the way, we will be able to see the geography changing because we start in the puna area, where there are no trees and only wild grass, and we end up in the cloud forest.

After lunch, we will continue descending for 2 hours and enter the tropical forest, where we can see orchids and other native flowers, as well as hummingbirds.

As we descend, we will pass through bamboo forests until we reach the town of Collpapampa, which is at 2,855 masl (9,366 feet), where we will have dinner and camp.

Overnight in Collpapampa

Hiking Distance: 16km / 10 mi

Duration: 8 hours

Campsite Altitude: 2,855 m / 9,365 ft

Highest Altitude: 6264 m / 20,546 ft

Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner, snacks, and tea

Accommodation: Campsite

Difficulty: Challenging

Day 3: Collpapampa - Lucmabamba

Breakfast at the Campsite

On this day, we will walk a total of 16 km (10 miles) and enjoy a cultural afternoon with a local family.

After breakfast, we will continue down the valley for an average of 6 hours, during which we will see a lot of vegetation, such as bamboo, and we will have many opportunities to see birds in the area and some waterfalls. The path descends gradually, and along the way, our guide will show you the variety of flora and fauna in the area.

We will arrive at our camp located in a small town called Lucmabamba, which is at 2,008 masl (6,588 feet), and here we will have lunch.

In the afternoon, we will do some agricultural activities depending on the time of year. We could pick and roast coffee, pick avocados, oranges, and granadillas. We could also get honey from the beehives and visit the hot springs (optional).

Overnight in Lucmabamba

Hiking Distance: 16km / 10 mi

Duration: 6 hours

Campsite Altitude: 2,008 m / 6,588 ft

Highest Altitude: 2,008 m / 6,588 ft

Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner, snacks, and tea

Accommodation: Campsite

Difficulty: Moderate

Day 4: Lucmabamba – Llactapata – Hidroelectrica – Aguas Calientes

Breakfast at the Campsite

After breakfast, we will hike for 8 km (5 miles) and will need to get up early. From Lucmabamba to our lunch site, we will hike for about 5–6 hours.

We will start ascending through the lush rainforest for about 2 and a half to 3 hours to the Llaqtapata Pass, which is at 2,700 masl or 8,910 feet. Then, we will descend for 15 minutes and arrive at the archaeological site of Llaqtapata, where we will stop and have some snacks.

This site provides our first view of Machu Picchu from the other side of the valley, and we will learn about how Llaqtapata was an important astronomical center.

After resting, we will begin our descent for 2 and a half to 3 hours down the mountain and will stop to eat our box lunches along the way. We will hike down until we reach Hydroelectric Town. Upon arrival, we will enjoy a delicious lunch at a local restaurant.

After lunch, we will say goodbye to our chef, and you will have time to relax before continuing toward the town of Aguas Calientes.

The final hike to Aguas Calientes involves a 3-hour walk along the railway from the Hydroelectric station to Aguas Calientes, the base town for Machu Picchu. Throughout this walk, you can also see parts of Machu Picchu from the valley.

Optional: You can take a train to the town of Aguas Calientes, but you have to book in advance.

Upon arrival in Aguas Calientes, the guide will take you to the hotel for the night, where you can rest, shower, and prepare for the last dinner in town.

Dinner is planned around 7:00 p.m. at a local restaurant in Aguas Calientes. After dinner, make the final preparations for the next day’s adventure in Machu Picchu.

Overnight in Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu)

Hiking Distance: 8km / 5 mi

Duration: 10 hours

Highest Altitude: 2,700 m / 8,910 ft

Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner

Accommodation: Hotel 3⭐⭐⭐

Difficulty: Moderate

Day 5: Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu – Cusco

Breakfast at the Hotel

After a delicious breakfast at your hotel, you will meet your guide and board the bus for a 25-minute ride to Machu Picchu. Your guide will accompany you on a 2- to 3-hour tour of the most important areas included in your assigned circuit. You will explore terraces, viewpoints, temples, royal quarters, sacred areas, and the central part of the citadel while learning about the history, architecture, and daily life of the Incas.

We always request Circuit 2 when available, as it offers one of the most comprehensive guided tours. If Circuit 2 is full, we will offer you the best official alternative available for your date, usually Circuit 1 or Circuit 3.

After exploring the Inca citadel of Machu Picchu, you will descend by bus to Aguas Calientes, where you can have lunch on your own. In the afternoon, you will board the Expedition train back to Ollantaytambo and continue by private transport to Cusco.

The suggested time to descend from Machu Picchu to Aguas Calientes town is 12:00 p.m., depending on the departure time of the train. It is recommended to arrive 30 minutes before the train’s departure.

2:00 p.m. Be ready at the train station for check-in.

2:30 p.m. Train Expeditions from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo.

Upon arrival at the station, a member of the company staff will be waiting to transfer you to your respective hotel in Cusco.

Overnight in Cusco

Activity: Guided Tour of Machu Picchu

Tour Duration: 2 -3 Hours

Max Altitude: 2,430m / 7,972 ft (Machu Picchu)

Train Departure: 02:00 p.m. (to Ollantaytambo)

Cusco Arrival: Approx. 07:30 p.m.

Meals: Breakfast at the hotel

Essentials: Original Passport, Daypack, Camera

Trip Details

Duration 4N / 5D

Activities Hiking – Adventure

Difficulty Moderate to challenging

Hiking distance 71KM / 44 miles

Minimum height 1900 m.s.n.m. or 6,232 ft (Pueblo de Santa Teresa)

Maximum height 4630 m.s.n.m. or 15,190 ft (Paso Salkantay)

Destinations Machu Picchu

Tour language English, Spanish

Accommodation 03 Nights Camping / 01 night Hotel

Meals 04 Breakfast, 4 Lunch, 04 Tea time and 04 Dinners

Starts / Ends Cusco – Cusco

IMPORTANT: Please Allow 2 - 3 Days for Acclimatization

Services Included

The hike include

Transportation from your hotel in Cusco to the start of the hike and back to your hotel at the end.
Entrance ticket to Salkantay.
Entrance ticket to Machu Picchu.
Train ticket in the Expedition service from Aguas Calientes back to Cusco at the end of the journey.
Round trip bus tickets to Machu Picchu and back to Aguas Calientes.
One night Hotel in Aguas Calientes (⭐⭐⭐ Econimic).
The tents which are 2-person, 4 season tents designed for maximum comfort.
The mattress.
Duffle bag that you can fill with up to 7 kg or (15 pounds) of your personal gear that the horses will carry.
Other camping equipment, such as a kitchen tent manned by a professional cooking staff, a dining tent with table and chairs, and a bathroom tent.
Experienced tour guide fluent in English, Spanish and Quechua. Our guides are equipped and trained to practice First-Aid, administer oxygen if needed, and conduct radio communication.
Complete meals and snacks during the trip starting with breakfast on the first day and ending with breakfast on the fifth day at your hotel (the last lunch in Aguas Calientes is not included).
Our experienced chefs make amazing meals in the middle of the mountains and are also used to preparing dishes for people with different food restrictions or lifestyles, so please let us know your preferences and we will make sure to meet your dietary needs.
Professional chef who grew up in the countryside and a horseman with horses/mules to carry all of our gear.
One extra horse in the case of an emergency.

Not Included

Group Service

USD $675.00 per person

Private Service

1 - people

USD $1,682.00 per person

2 - people

USD $1,240.00 per person

3 - 5 people

USD $985.00 per person

6 - 8 people

USD $720.00 per person

9 + people

USD $675.00 per person

Discount

Children 17 years old and under – $30 USD off.

* To receive the child discount you must send us a copy of the child’s passport.

Additional Options

Huaynapicchu Mountain: USD$70.00

Vistadome Observatory Train round Trip: USD$90.00

Sleeping Bags: USD$25.00

Trekking Poles: USD$15.00 (1 pair)

Private Tent: USD$40.00

Document

Small backpack

Large backpack

Warm clothes - Including jacket, fleece, thermal clothes for sleeping, gloves, scarf

Rain clothes - Jacket and trousers, poncho, hat

Swimsuit

Small towel

Strong, waterproof trekking boots

Walking poles

Sandals

Flashlight

Camera - Extra batteries as they run out faster under cold conditions

Suncream, moisturiser

Insect repellant - Min 20% DEET

Toilet paper

Personal first aid kit

Snacks - Biscuits, energy bars, chocolate, raw fruits, muesli, etc

Water bottle

Cash in Soles/$USD

YOU MUST BRING YOUR ORIGINAL PASSPORT

How to book

To book the tour, please send us an email with the information of each person in your group:

Full name, nationality, date of birth and gender

Copy of your passport

The tour you want to do, the start date

How many people are in your group

info@peruvianpathsandadventures.com

Tour Map: Salkantay Trek To Machu Picchu - 4N / 5D

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Nitin B

Best Tour Agency for Lima My family's private Peru trip was a dream come true, thanks to our Guide Edy who also is Owner/operator of Peruvian Paths And Adventures . From the moment we landed in Lima, every transfer was impeccably timed and stress-free. Edy is not just a guide; he is a master storyteller who brought the ruins of Cusco ,Machu Picchu,Sacred Valley to life with deep historical insight and humor. We especially appreciated how they checked in on our comfort during the high-altitude portions of the trip. We were blown away by the level of detail and passion , he brought to every site. Instead of just reciting dates, Edy shared stories about the Inca culture that made us feel connected to the land. The agency’s organization was 'A1'—everything from the hotels to the private transport exceeded our expectations. They truly go the extra mile to ensure an unforgettable experience. Edy took all the stress out of navigating [Lima ,Cusco, sacred valley , Machu Picchu], allowing us to just soak in the beauty. Highly recommend to anyone visiting Peru! If you want a worry-free, authentic Peruvian adventure, look no further!

Michele F

You need Edy as your guide! Edy was THE BEST tour guide I have ever had! The care and consideration he took to make sure we felt comfortable and enjoyed our trip was unmatched! He went above and beyond! He even got to our hotel early to make sure we knew where to go on a day we weren’t touring with him. He’s fun, energetic, and super knowledgeable. Wouldn’t recommend anyone more than him!

Elana R

Incredible trip!! Edy was an incredible guide during our time in Peru. He was kind, patient, and attentive, and really went above and beyond to make sure all of our needs were taken care of. My family had used him when they visited Peru, and when I went back a year later with a friend, we booked with him again without hesitation. Everything was so well organized, easy, and stress-free—we truly felt safe and taken care of the entire trip. It was absolutely worth it, and we had the best vacation together. I would highly recommend Edy to anyone visiting Peru!

William V

Inca trail Eddy and his team helped me with everything so I could do the Inca trail. On the evening before they went to visit my hostel and explained me in detail all I need to know about the Inca trail. I even got a beautiful shirt with the Inca trail on as a souvenir/gift. The hiking group was very mixed and great group. I have massive respect for all the porters/cooks and guides on the team. The Inca trail has a very big history and very beautiful Inca constructions. The nature is amazing . On my return to Cusco, Edy offered me a car ride to the hostel to pick up my belongings and drove me to the airport. It really made it practical and safe for me. Thx Edy for all the help.

Alicia J

An amazing Lares Trek I recently went on a hiking/yoga with Peruvian Path and Adventures and it was an amazing experience. The Lares Trek was beautiful, peaceful and had the perfect amount of challenging components. It was amazing to walk through the villages and not be around tons of people. Edy, Juan and the rest of the team were helpful in so many ways. I always felt safe and secure. Peace. The cooking was delicious. Our camping spots were beautiful.

Sheri W

Top Notch for all Your Peruvian Sightseeing Needs! This was my first trip to Cusco Peru, and Edy & his team went above and beyond to ensure everyone’s experience was unforgettable! Having traveled to Cusco with a yoga retreat group, Edy and team were prepared for all circumstances including unexpected weather and dietary restrictions. We hiked and camped the Lares trek, explored ancient ruins, visited a local school to provide much needed supplies, did an Incan ceremony at our summit (14,700ft!), visited Machu Picchu & Huayna Picchu, and learned SO much about the beautiful people and culture of Peru. This is a trip that I will never forget and will always hold near and dear to my heart. I highly recommend Peruvian Paths & Adventures for your next trip to Cusco and the surrounding areas!

Jillian D

A True Peruvian Experience!! Edy is simply amazing!! I was on a yoga retreat that used Edy for the Lares Trek and Machu Picchu and they truly went above and beyond. Many on the group had dietary restrictions and they accommodated everyone. They easily adapted to different weather situations along the trek and made sure everyone was safe. I highly recommend using Edy for all your Peruvian adventures. His personality, knowledge, and enthusiasm is what made our trip and Peruvian experience amazing. My partner and I will definitely be back to Peru and use Edy and his team for our next adventure!!!

Brenda

Choose a local Was so accommodating. I would give him a six star review. The day with his family at the very end was amazing and being in the field and seeing their homes. Our guide for the Inca trail had over 35 years of experience. The food was gourmet. And they carried & set up your tents.

Francisco M

Experiencia unica Muy recomendable confiar en Edy para organizar cualquier viaje a Cuzco, Machu Picchu o Peru. Tuvimos una experiencia muy buena en organizacion y en el viaje. Volveremos pronto a verte!!

Juliana M

Esplêndido atendimento! A viagem foi incrível do início ao fim graças a organização da Peruvian Paths, em especial a Dina e Edy e toda equipe, são pessoas incríveis, acolhedoras e muito profissionais, o melhor do Peru são os peruanos. Guardamos com carinho cada momento vivido e queremos voltar. Parabéns a todos, foram dias incríveis!

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Belén Ercole

Excelente la experiencia. Estuvimos una semana en Perú en varias ciudades, ellos se encargaron de los traslados y todas las excursiones. Siempre a horario, con muy buena predisposición, los vehículos limpios y en buen estado. A cada consulta nos respondían rápido y con la información precisa. Una empresa super recomendable.

Gina Grünke

Wir hatten eine fantastische Zeit auf dem 4-tägigen Salkantay Trek mit unserem Guide Johan! Von Anfang bis Ende war alles perfekt organisiert, sodass wir die Tour in vollen Zügen genießen konnten. Johan hat uns unterwegs viel Spannendes über die Geschichte, die Kultur und die Region erzählt und den Trek dadurch noch interessanter gemacht. Besonders geschätzt haben wir, dass er jederzeit unser individuelles Lauftempo respektiert hat und wir uns nie unter Druck gesetzt gefühlt haben. Außerdem hatten wir jede Menge Spaß zusammen und haben auf dem Weg viel gelacht. Vielen Dank an Johan und das gesamte Team für dieses unvergessliche Erlebnis!

Vanesa Almendras

Excelente estadía, muy bien organizado todo todo todo! Súper recomendable, atentos a toda inquietud, muchas gracias Edy y a su equipo! Saludos desde Argentina, Tierra del Fuego, Ushuaia.

Edy Huaman Tumpay

I had great experince on the Inca trail to Machupicchu

sheetal davda

The best time ever . Eddy was great tour guide

Brennan Breen

10/5 Johan and the guides with Peruvian Paths will make sure your trip is � 🏼💃🏻☀️

Olga Espada

Traveling to Cusco with Peruvian Paths and Adventures was a true pleasure, and I highly recommend their services. Edy, my contact person and guide, organized a five-day private tour for us. Every day and all events were professionally managed. Edy ensured we enjoyed every moment, and his knowledge and passion for Cusco and its culture are truly admirable. Our driver, Jose Luis, made us feel safe throughout the trip. He was patient, caring, and always punctual. Additionally, Yojan, our guide at Machu Picchu, made our experience at this wonder of the world truly memorable. We met Yojan as a guide and left as friends; he is simply the best. Thank you for a wonderful experience.

Emiliano Duarte

Soy Sergio Duarte, Argentino super agradecido a la familia hermana peruana de Peruvian, Edy y su familia. Hermosa experiencia de Camino Inca corto y visita circ. 3 a Machu Picchu. Guiado por su empresa de forma excepcional. Que irá creciendo día a día, si siguen trabajando como acompañaron mi viaje soñado, que gracias a ellos lo pude realizar.

Tyler Christensen

Spent an excellent day at Rainbow Mountain with Eddie. Excellent tour guide. Highly recommend.

Olivia Maraude

El Camino del Inca es uno de los sueños que perseguimos por años! La profesionalidad de Peruvian Paths and Adventure fue fundamental para hacerlo realidad. Desde el comienzo del proyecto, cuando armamos nuestro viaje " a medida " Edy estuvo siempre respondiendo, dándonos información y acompañando de una manera cordial a nuestras inquietudes. Por otro lado, no quiero dejar de mencionar a Nuestro Guía en el CAMINO DEL INCA: JOHAN. El haber llegado a la meta solo fue posible por su acompañamiento profesional y sensible a nuestras necesidades. Nos sostuvo animicanente, con las palabras y los consejos apropiados. Sin dudas, me encantaría tenerlo como guía en próximas aventuras! Super recomendable TODO EL EQUIPO DE TRABAJO!

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Salkantay Trek To Machu Picchu – 4N / 5D

Salkantay Trek To Machu Picchu

Itinerary

Day 1: Cusco - Mollepata – Soraypampa – Soyrococha

Day 2: Soyrococha - Rayanniyoc - Collpapampa

Day 3: Collpapampa - Lucmabamba

Day 4: Lucmabamba – Llactapata – Hidroelectrica – Aguas Calientes

Day 5: Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu – Cusco

Trip Details

IMPORTANT: Please Allow 2 - 3 Days for Acclimatization

Services Included

The hike include

Not Included

Group Service

Discount

Additional Options

How to book

Tour Map: Salkantay Trek To Machu Picchu - 4N / 5D

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