Embark on an extraordinary adventure with our 5-day Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu that will immerse you in the magic of the Peruvian Andes. Less crowded than the famous Inca Trail, this trek will treat you to stunning panoramas and breathtaking landscapes.
Our small groups allow you to forge an authentic connection with the majesty of the Andean nature and immerse yourself in its rich culture. Along the way, you will have unforgettable encounters with local communities, opening the doors to the ancient traditions of the Andes. And as a grand finale, your adventure culminates in the imposing citadel of Machu Picchu, one of the wonders of the world that will leave you in awe.
We offer pick-up service at your hotel. Our guide will be wearing a shirt with the company logo for easy identification.
Start your adventure to Machu Picchu on the Salkantay route. Departure from Cusco at 5:00 am towards Challacancha (3400m), with a stop in Mollepata (3000m). In Challacancha, meet up with the trekking team to begin the hike. The route offers spectacular views of the snow-capped mountains Humantay (5217m) and Salkantay (6264m). After 3 hours of hiking, arrive at Soraypampa (3700m) to have lunch and camp, enjoying breathtaking views. The adventure doesn't end here. In the afternoon, we invite you to an optional but unmissable experience: a hike to the impressive Humantay Lake (4220m/13845ft). This 2-hour climb will reward you with views that will remain etched in your memory forever. The turquoise waters of the lake, framed by the majestic snow-capped peak of Humantay, create a postcard that defies the imagination. This adventure includes a 2-3 hour hike, with an additional 2 hours if you visit the Humantay Lagoon. The weather is cold, so it is advisable to dress warmly.
After breakfast, we will begin our trek to the Salkantay Pass, reaching 4,600m (15,092 ft) above sea level. From this privileged point, we will enjoy a spectacular view of the majestic Salkantay snow-capped mountain, which rises to 6,264m (20,551 ft). Then, we will begin the descent, entering a fascinating ecosystem of lush vegetation that changes with every step. Our day will end at Collpapampa, at 3,350m (10,990 ft), where we will set up camp surrounded by a warm tropical forest, home to a variety of fauna that includes mosquitoes. This exciting high-altitude adventure will take us between 10 and 11 hours of walking.
The day is softened by a 7-hour hike of moderate to easy difficulty. You will explore the lush jungle canopy in a warm climate, ideal for appreciating the diverse flora and fauna. You will enjoy all your meals and spend the night in Lucmabamba, surrounded by aromatic coffee plantations. Relaxation in Hot Springs (Optional): End your day of adventure with a rejuvenating bath in the Santa Teresa mineral hot springs. Immerse yourself in these natural pools with therapeutic properties, the ideal remedy to revitalize your muscles after the hike. Our guide can coordinate transportation from Lucmabamba, allowing you to enjoy this natural oasis without complications. It is a perfect relaxation break in the middle of your great Andean adventure. Please note that this service is optional and is not included in the package price.
After breakfast, we will begin the ascent along the Inca Trail to the archaeological site of Llactapata, at 2,650 meters above sea level (8,694 feet). During the journey, we will delight in breathtaking landscapes, surrounded by lush flora and traces of the rich Inca culture. From Llactapata, you will have a spectacular view of the Machu Picchu mountain and the majestic Vilcanota Canyon. Then, we will begin the descent to the Hidroeléctrica train station, located at 1,950 meters (6,398 feet), where we will pause to rest. Afterwards, we will continue the hike to the town of Machu Picchu, at 2,050 meters (6,726 feet). We will spend the night in the town of Machu Picchu in a hotel. Climate: Warm, with the presence of insects. Duration of the hike: 8-9 hours.
After breakfast, we will leave the hotel at 5:30 am for Machu Picchu by bus, arriving around 6:00 am. During the guided tour, we will explore the main sites of the citadel, such as the Main Plaza, the Intihuatana, the Temple of the Sun and the agricultural terraces, while the guide details the history and cultural value of the place. After the tour, you will have free time to visit Machu Picchu Mountain or climb Wayna Picchu on your own (entrance ticket not included). The return train from Aguas Calientes will leave between 3:00 and 4:00 pm, with time for lunch or to relax in the hot springs.
All sales are final. No refund is available for cancellations.
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This experience is non-refundable and cannot be changed for any reason. If you cancel or ask for an amendment, the amount you paid will not be refunded.
You will not receive a refund if you cancel.
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