Classic Salkantay Trek 5 Days To Machu Picchu
From US$380 per person
Trip Summary
Total time
5 day / 4 nights
Meals included
4 Breakfasts - 4 Lunches - 4 Dinners
Group size
Up to 10 people
Transportation
Bus
Why Pick This Tour
The Salkantay Trek takes you through the most jaw-dropping scenery in the Peruvian Andes, including the massive Salkantay snow peak. Unlike the Classic Inca Trail, the Salkantay Trek doesn’t require permits, giving you way more flexibility when booking. The trek from Cusco offers a more authentic experience with fewer crowds and a deeper connection to nature.
The best part of the tour: Guided tour of Classic Salkantay Trek 5 Days To Machu Picchu
Over View — Salkantay Trek 5 Days / 4 Nights
The Salkantay Trek is one of the most exciting and diverse hiking routes in the world. Over five days, you’ll follow ancient trails on an unforgettable adventure toward Machu Picchu — from towering Andean glaciers to the warm, misty cloud forest.
This route lets you experience Peru’s most dramatic contrasts: from the majestic Apu Salkantay peak (20,574 ft / 6,271 m) — one of the tallest in the Andes — and the turquoise waters of Humantay Lake, to coffee and banana plantations in the valley, delivering a true adventure and nature experience.
Day 1 : Cusco – Challacancha – Soraypampa – Humantay Lake
The adventure starts with pickup around 4:00 a.m. from your hotel in Cusco. After about a 2-hour drive in shared transport, we’ll make a quick stop in Mollepata for an Andean breakfast (optional, not included). Then we’ll continue for another hour to Challacancha, the official starting point of the Salkantay Trek.
At Challacancha you’ll meet our cooks and local horsemen, and we’ll do a gear check before starting a moderate 3-hour hike to Soraypampa (12,795 ft / 3,900 m) — one of the main campsites on the Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu.
At Soraypampa we’ll enjoy a hearty lunch, then in the afternoon we’ll hike to Humantay Lake (13,780 ft / 4,200 m) — one of the most stunning sights on any Andean trek. You’ll have time to soak in the turquoise waters surrounded by glaciers — perfect for photos.
We’ll head back to camp for an outdoor dinner, rest up, and recharge for the next day.
Day 2 : Soraypampa – Salkantay Pass – Collpapampa
We’ll wake up early with a warm cup of coca tea (great for altitude adjustment) and fuel up with an energizing breakfast. After breakfast, we’ll start the toughest stretch of the Salkantay Trek — a roughly 3-hour climb to the Salkantay Pass (15,256 ft / 4,650 m), the highest point on the entire route to Machu Picchu.
From the pass, you’ll get incredible panoramic views of the Apu Salkantay peak (20,574 ft / 6,271 m), the second-highest in the Cusco region and one of the most iconic sights in Andean trekking.
Then we’ll start the descent (about 2 hours) to Huayracmachay (12,631 ft / 3,850 m) for a well-earned lunch. After a short break, we’ll continue hiking about 3 hours (5 miles) to Collpapampa (9,678 ft / 2,950 m), gradually entering the cloud forest — a zone packed with biodiversity and tropical scenery.
At camp, you’ll enjoy a hot dinner and rest comfortably in our mountain cabins, recharging for the next day.
Day 3 : Collpapampa – La Playa – Lucmabamba
At 6:00 a.m., we’ll start with coca tea and an energizing breakfast, then head toward La Playa through the Santa Teresa Valley — one of the greenest, most lush stretches of the Salkantay Trek. This section is easier and mostly downhill — perfect for enjoying the scenery.
At La Playa (6,759 ft / 2,060 m), we’ll enjoy an authentic cultural experience where a local family teaches an artisanal coffee class. You’ll learn how they grow, harvest, and prepare coffee using traditional techniques that have been passed down for generations.
After the cultural activity and a traditional lunch, you’ll have the option in the afternoon of two adventure activities (extra cost): canopy zipline in the jungle or a visit to the Cocalmayo Hot Springs — ideal for relaxing after the hike.
We’ll wrap up the day with a comforting dinner and rest at our exclusive Jungle Domes campsite in Lucmabamba, surrounded by lush Peruvian jungle.
Day 4 : Lucmabamba – Llaqtapata – Hidroeléctrica – Aguas Calientes
After breakfast in Lucmabamba, we’ll start with a 2-hour uphill hike along an original section of the Inca Trail to the archaeological site of Llactapata (8,858 ft / 2,700 m), where you’ll get your first distant panoramic view of Machu Picchu and Huayna Picchu — a unique moment on the trek.
Then we’ll descend for 2 hours to Hidroeléctrica (5,906 ft / 1,800 m) for lunch — a key point on this alternative route to Machu Picchu. After that, we’ll walk about 3 hours along the train tracks to Aguas Calientes, also known as Machu Picchu Town. (Optional: take the train for an extra cost if you’re feeling tired.)
Once in Aguas Calientes, our guide will help us get to our hotels. Later, we’ll meet up for a group dinner — an important moment since the guide will share key info for tomorrow’s Machu Picchu visit. After that, you can explore the town or turn in early, getting ready for the big day.
Day 5 : Machu Picchu – Return to Cusco
Today is the big day. We’ll wake up early for breakfast at our hotel in Aguas Calientes, then meet up with our professional guide at Machu Picchu at the assigned meeting point. We’ll take the tourist bus up to Machu Picchu for a 1.5-hour guided tour of the Inca citadel.
You’ll learn about the temples, terraces, and most important religious sectors — a key part of Inca history and culture — and have free time for photos, including those classic postcard shots of this World Heritage Site.
After the guided tour and returning to Aguas Calientes, we’ll begin the return to Cusco, closing out an unforgettable trekking and travel experience in Peru.
Return Options to Cusco
Option 1: Bus (budget-friendly)
Walk about 2 hours back to Hidroeléctrica, then take a tourist bus to Cusco. Longer travel time, ideal for budget-conscious travelers.
Option 2: Train (most comfortable)
Tourist train from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo, then bus transfer to Cusco. Shorter and more comfortable. Higher cost, recommended for those who value comfort and saving time.
What’s Included
- Pre-Trip Briefing: Orientation meeting before the Salkantay Trek where we finalize details and answer all your questions.
- Pickup & Shared Transport: Shuttle from your hotel in Cusco’s Historic Center to the trailhead, in shared tourist transport.
- Bilingual Professional Guides: Certified Spanish–English guides, experts in Andean culture, nature, and Inca history, throughout the trek.
- 3 Nights in Cabins & Domes: Mountain cabins and domes with spectacular views of the Andes and jungle.
- 1 Night Hotel in Aguas Calientes: Last night in a tourist hotel in Machu Picchu Town before visiting the citadel.
- Professional Chef & Full Meals: Professional trekking chef with 4 breakfasts, 4 lunches, and 4 dinners, prepared with fresh, local ingredients.
- Snacks & Hot Drinks: 3 energy snacks, tea time, hot infusions, and morning coca tea — great for altitude adjustment.
- Duffel Bag & Pack Horses: Personal duffel bag to carry up to 13 lbs (6 kg) of your gear, transported by pack horses during the first days.
- Personal Sleeping Pad: Individual sleeping pad for comfort during camp nights.
- Machu Picchu Entrance — Circuit 2: Official entry ticket, subject to availability, on one of the most complete circuits.
- Guided Tour of Machu Picchu: Cultural and educational guided tour with a certified professional guide.
- Return from Aguas Calientes to Cusco: Return by tourist train or bus, depending on your chosen option.
- Vegetarian & Vegan Options: Available at no extra cost — just request in advance.
- Safety: First aid kit, oxygen tank, and safety protocols throughout the entire trek.
- You’ll receive a duffel bag the day before to pack up to 13 lbs (6 kg) of your belongings: This gear will be carried by horses during the trek and delivered to you at each campsite each night, so you can hike to Machu Picchu without extra weight.
What’s Not Included
- First & Last Meals: Breakfast on Day 1 and lunch in Aguas Calientes are not included.
- Humantay Lake Entrance: Paid directly at the access point per local regulations.
- Sleeping Bag: Not included. Available for rental in Cusco.
- Trekking Poles: Not included. Available for optional rental.
- Transport Lucmabamba – Hidroeléctrica: Local transport, paid directly on the route.
- Equipment Rental: Sleeping bag and trekking pole rental not included in the tour price.
- Aguas Calientes Hot Springs: Entrance and transport to the hot springs are not included.
Tips & Packing List
I. Prep & Documents
- Documents: Bring your original passport or national ID — required for Machu Picchu entry. Make sure the names on your tickets (including train/bus) match your document.
- Acclimatization & Insurance: The Salkantay Trek is demanding. Acclimatize in Cusco for at least 2 days before starting. Get travel insurance covering medical emergencies, evacuation, and cancellations.
- Optional Tickets: If you want to visit Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain, get your tickets as far ahead as possible.
- Physical Prep: Do practice hikes and cardio exercises to get your body ready for high altitude.
II. Essential Gear
- Day Pack (25L max): For carrying essentials during daily hikes.
- Layered Clothing: Use a layering system (thermal, breathable, windbreaker) for extreme temperature changes along the route.
- Basic Gear: Waterproof jacket or rain poncho, sun hat, sunscreen, sunglasses, headlamp, and personal toiletries.
- Footwear: Sturdy, broken-in trekking boots to prevent blisters.
- Cash (Soles): For tips, restrooms, shopping, and extra entrances/activities not included (like Humantay Lake).
III. Tour Rules & Safety
- Punctuality & Guide: Be on time and always follow your guide’s instructions — they’ll give you safety guidelines and route info.
- Health: Don’t ignore altitude sickness symptoms (soroche). Tell your guide about any physical discomfort.
- Rules: Respect nature and archaeological sites. Don’t litter and don’t leave the group.
- Machu Picchu: The route is one-way — no re-entry, no drones, no bulky backpacks.
2026 Rates — Salkantay Trek 5 Days / 4 Nights
Experience one of the most impressive trekking routes to Machu Picchu with our 5D/4N Salkantay Trek — designed for travelers seeking adventure, spectacular scenery, and professional organization in the Peruvian Andes.
This tour combines high-altitude trekking, glacial lakes, cloud forest, Andean culture, and a visit to Machu Picchu. Includes selected lodging (cabins, panoramic domes, and hotel in Aguas Calientes), full meals, professional guides, logistics team, and Machu Picchu entrance — guaranteeing a safe, comfortable, and memorable experience.
Return Rate — Car/Bus Option
*(Budget-friendly — longer travel time)*
Return via Hidroeléctrica – Cusco
- Student: USD 30
- Child (3–17 years): USD 25
- Adult: USD 35
Return Rate — Tourist Train Option
*(Fastest & most comfortable — higher price)*
Tourist train from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo + bus to Cusco
- Student: USD 80
- Child (3–17 years): USD 70
- Adult: USD 95
Note:
- Student rate only with valid university ID (ages 19–25).
- Children must travel with a responsible adult.
- Rates may vary by peak season or Machu Picchu entry availability.
Cancellation & Refund Terms — Salkantay Trek 5D/4N
A $180 USD per person deposit is required to confirm the booking, covering space reservations, advance purchases, and the Machu Picchu entrance ticket plus other logistics.
Deposit Policy
- The $180 USD deposit is mandatory to proceed.
- This amount is non-refundable, used for advance payments and official entry purchases.
Cancellations
- After deposit: $180 USD is non-refundable under any circumstances.
- Less than 7 days before tour start: No refund of any kind.
- No-show: Considered full cancellation — no refund.
Refunds
- Payments beyond the deposit may be evaluated for partial refund if services haven’t been used or confirmed with third parties — subject to admin fees.
- Machu Picchu tickets, tourist trains, and other third-party services with their own policies are non-refundable and non-transferable.
Date Changes
- Subject to availability and possible extra costs per Ministry of Culture and external provider policies.
- Deposit doesn’t guarantee exemption from change penalties.
Force Majeure
- In cases of extreme weather, natural disasters, or government orders, each case is reviewed individually. However, the deposit is non-refundable since operational costs will have already been incurred.
Machu Picchu Entry Tickets
Machu Picchu tickets are personal, named, and non-transferable per Peru’s Ministry of Culture regulations.
⚠️ Important: If the traveler doesn’t travel, cancels, reschedules outside of allowed conditions, or doesn’t show up — there’s absolutely no refund on the Machu Picchu ticket, under any circumstances. This amount is 100% non-refundable, regardless of the reason, since the ticket is issued and registered in the traveler’s name.
How hard is the Salkantay Trek?
Moderate to challenging. No technical experience needed, but good physical fitness is important since you’ll reach altitudes up to 15,256 ft (4,650 m). We recommend acclimatizing at least 2 days in Cusco.
Do I need trekking experience?
Not required. Lots of travelers from Europe and the US do the Salkantay Trek as their first big hike. But it helps to be used to long walks and to follow guide instructions.
How does the altitude affect you and how do you deal with it?
Altitude can hit some travelers. That’s why we include coca tea, gradual hiking, trained guides, and an oxygen tank. We recommend staying hydrated and avoiding alcohol before the trek.
What kind of lodging is included?
The tour includes mountain cabins, panoramic domes, and 1 night in a hotel in Aguas Calientes — a solid balance of adventure and comfort that international travelers love.
How cold does it get at night?
Nights can get cold, especially the first days (down to 23°F / -5°C). A mountain-grade sleeping bag is recommended. We also provide hot drinks every night.
What do I carry during the trek?
Just a day pack with personal items. Your main gear (up to 13 lbs / 6 kg) is carried by pack horses, making the trek way more comfortable.
Are meals included?
Yes. 4 breakfasts, 4 lunches, and 4 dinners prepared by a professional chef, plus snacks and hot drinks. Vegetarian and vegan options at no extra charge.
Is the Salkantay Trek safe?
Yes. We have professional guides, first aid kit, oxygen, constant communication, and safety protocols. The Salkantay Trek is one of the safest routes to Machu Picchu.
Best time to do the Salkantay Trek?
April through October (dry season). November through March is rainy season but fewer tourists and greener scenery.
Is the Machu Picchu ticket included?
Yes. The tour includes the Machu Picchu entry ticket — Circuit 2, subject to availability at booking time.
Can I change or cancel my booking?
A $180 USD non-refundable deposit is required to confirm. Machu Picchu tickets are non-refundable if you don’t travel.
Can I pay by credit card?
Yes. We accept cards, transfers, and other international payment methods commonly used by European and North American travelers.
What's the difference between the bus and train return?
- Bus: more affordable, longer travel time.
- Train: faster and more comfortable, higher price.
