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Embark on the ultimate 5-Day Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu, globally recognized by National Geographic as one of the best adventure treks in the world. This classic 5 days 4 nights hiking tour from Cusco is the premier, uncrowded alternative to the Inca Trail, designed for travelers seeking an immersive journey through diverse Peruvian landscapes—from snow-capped Andean peaks to lush tropical high jungles.
Our premium small-group trekking expedition combines high-altitude adventure with unmatched camp comfort. Escape the overcrowded traditional routes and discover the raw, untouched beauty of the Vilcabamba mountain range. Stand in awe before majestic glaciers, walk through misty cloud forests, and follow the footsteps of the Incas to the world wonder of Machu Picchu.
What's Included
Lunch
Dinner
Breakfast
Meeting and pickup
We offer complimentary pickup from any hotel, Airbnb, or private residence in Cusco City, so you can start your adventure stress-free. Simply provide your accommodation name or full address after booking, and we'll take care of the rest. Our team will ensure a smooth, punctual, and hassle-free pickup to make your experience as comfortable as possible.
Itinerary
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1
Start your unforgettable 5-Day Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu with an early morning hotel pickup in Cusco and a scenic drive to Mollepata (2,700 m / 8,858 ft), the gateway to one of Peru's most spectacular hiking adventures. Continue to Challacancha, where your Salkantay Trek officially begins. Hike through breathtaking Andean landscapes to Soraypampa (3,900 m / 12,795 ft) and enjoy a freshly prepared lunch by our professional trekking chef. In the afternoon, take a rewarding hike to the world-famous Humantay Lake, renowned for its crystal-clear turquoise waters and dramatic mountain scenery—one of the most iconic highlights of the Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu. Return to camp in Soraypampa to relax and savor a delicious dinner before spending the night surrounded by the majestic Andes.
3 hours • Admission ticket not included -
2
Day 2 is the most spectacular and rewarding stage of the 5-Day Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu. After an early breakfast, begin your ascent to the legendary Salkantay Pass (4,630 m / 15,190 ft), the highest point of the trek. Along this unforgettable hike, marvel at towering snow-capped peaks, breathtaking glacier views, and the majestic beauty of the Peruvian Andes. Pause at the summit to capture incredible photos and participate in a traditional Andean offering, asking for a safe and successful journey. Continue your adventure with a scenic descent to Wayraqmachay, where you'll enjoy a freshly prepared lunch before entering the lush Cloud Forest, a dramatic transition from alpine landscapes to vibrant tropical vegetation. End the day at Chaullay Camp, where a delicious dinner and a comfortable campsite await after one of the world's most iconic hiking experiences.
8 hours • Admission ticket included -
3Lucmabamba Coffee Experience
Day 3 offers one of the most scenic and diverse experiences of the 5-Day Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu. After an early breakfast, embark on a 5–7-hour hike through the lush Peruvian Cloud Forest, where breathtaking landscapes, waterfalls, exotic wildlife, and vibrant orchids create an unforgettable trekking experience. Follow ancient Inca trails past the archaeological sites of Wiñaypoco and Lluskamayu, surrounded by rich tropical vegetation. Arrive at La Playa for a delicious, freshly prepared lunch before continuing on a scenic 2-hour walk through picturesque coffee plantations, avocado fields, and fruit orchards to Lucmabamba, your peaceful campsite for the night. Relax with a freshly prepared dinner and immerse yourself in the natural beauty of one of the most spectacular sections of the Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu.
8 hours • Admission ticket included -
4Aguas Calientes
Day 4: Lucmabamba – Llaqtapata Inca Ruins – Hidroeléctrica – Aguas Calientes Set off between 7:00 AM and 8:00 AM for the most rewarding day of the trek! Hike an authentic, hidden section of the Inca Trail to the Llaqtapata archaeological site, arriving around noon. Here, you’ll witness a breathtaking, exclusive view of Machu Picchu from directly across the mountain ridge. Continue your descent to Hidroeléctrica for a delicious lunch, followed by a flat, scenic 3-hour hike along the jungle train path to Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu Pueblo). After checking into your cozy hotel for some well-deserved rest, celebrate the night before your big citadel tour with a delightful dinner at a local restaurant.
6 hours • Admission ticket free -
5Hot Springs (Aguas Calientes)
Day 5 is the unforgettable finale of your 5-Day Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu. Rise early and join your expert guide for a 30-minute bus ride to the legendary Machu Picchu, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. Enjoy a guided tour of its most iconic landmarks, including the Temple of the Sun, Main Plaza, Sacred Fountains, Temple of the Three Windows, and the famous Intihuatana Stone, while learning about the remarkable Inca civilization. After the tour, enjoy free time to capture breathtaking photos and admire the spectacular views. Return by bus to Aguas Calientes for lunch before boarding your scenic train to Ollantaytambo, where our representative will transfer you to your hotel in Cusco, concluding your unforgettable Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu adventure.
7 minutes • Admission ticket included
Cusco to Soraypampa via Mollepata | Humantay Lake & Salkantay Trek Adventure
Day 2: Soraypampa to Chaullay via Salkantay Pass | Epic Andes Hiking Adventure
Day 3: Chaullay to Lucmabamba | Cloud Forest & Coffee Farm Experience
Day 4: Lucmabamba – Llactapata – Hydroelectric – Aguas Calientes | First View of Machu Picchu
Day 5: Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu Guided Tour – Return to Cusco | UNESCO World Heritage Site
Additional info
- Service animals allowed
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Tags
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Cancellation Policy
- For a full refund, you must cancel at least 24 hours before the experience’s start time.
- If you cancel less than 24 hours before the experience’s start time, the amount you paid will not be refunded.
- Any changes made less than 24 hours before the experience’s start time will not be accepted.
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the experience for a full refund.
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