Salkantay Trek & Short Inca Trail: The Ultimate 5-Day Trek

What's Included

Meeting and pickup

Itinerary

Day 1
CUSCO - SORAYPAMPA - HUMANTAY LAKE - COYROCCOCHA - WAYRACMACHAY
1 stop
1
Salkantay Trail
The expedition begins at 4:00 a.m. with a private transfer from Cusco to Soraypampa (12,795 ft / 3,900 m). After a nutritious breakfast set against the backdrop of the first Andean peaks, we begin the ascent toward Humantay Lake (13,779 ft / 4,200 m). This initial challenge allows you to witness turquoise glacial waters guarded by the majestic Humantay peak.After descending back to the base, the route enters the sacred domain of the Great Apu Salkantay. The trek continues toward Soyroccocha, a strategic point where a gourmet Andean lunch is served with front-row views of the glacier.Conquering the Salkantay Pass We reach the journey’s climax at the Salkantay Pass (15,190 ft / 4,630 m). This is the highest and most spiritual point of the trek, offering a unique proximity to the summit and a breathtaking panoramic view of the Vilcabamba Range. Finally, we begin a scenic descent toward our campsite at Wayracmachay (12,834 ft / 3,912 m).
6 hours • Admission ticket included
Day 2
WAYRACMACHAY - CCOLLPAPAMPA - SAHUAYACO
1 stop
2
Salkantay Trail
The journey begins at 5:00 a.m. with our signature coca tea service delivered to your tent, followed by a high-energy breakfast at 5:30 a.m. We start a 3-to-4-hour downhill hike toward Ccollpapampa (9,350 ft / 2,850 m). As we descend, the crisp mountain air yields to a warm tropical breeze. Along the way, the towering silhouette of Salkantay Peak fades as wild orchids, crystal-clear waterfalls, and exotic tropical birds begin to emerge.Upon arrival at Ccollpapampa, we stop for a nutritious gourmet lunch, providing the perfect fuel to continue our descent. From here, we trek toward the Sahuayaco sector, locally known as "La Playa" (6,774 ft / 2,065 m). This stretch is a true sensory experience where hikers walk through:Organic coffee plantations.We arrive at our Sahuayaco campsite in the late afternoon. The tropical atmosphere is dedicated to recovery and cultural immersion. This is the perfect opportunity to learn about the artisanal Peruvian coffee-making process.
8 hours • Admission ticket included
Day 3
SAHUAYACO - LLACTAPATA - HYDROELECTRIC - AGUAS CALIENTES TOWN
1 stop
3
Aguas Calientes
Our day begins at 5:00 a.m. with the aroma of freshly roasted local coffee, followed by a high-energy breakfast at 5:30 a.m.After a moderate ascent, we reach the archaeological site of Llactapata (8,976 ft / 2,736 m). From this privileged location, you will enjoy a unique, direct view of the Machu Picchu Citadel and Huayna Picchu mountain across the valley. This mystical perspective is a rare highlight that very few trekkers ever get to witness.We descend into the Aobamba River valley for a refreshing lunch at Hidroeléctrica. From there, we begin a scenic, 3-hour flat hike alongside the train tracks and the Urubamba River. This historic trail follows the same path once taken by explorer Hiram Bingham.By late afternoon, we arrive in Aguas Calientes (6,692 ft / 2,040 m) for hotel check-in. You will have the evening free to enjoy a relaxing dinner and rest, ensuring you are fully recharged for your grand tour of the World Wonder tomorrow.
10 hours • Admission ticket free
Day 4
AGUAS CALIENTES TOW - CHACHABAMBA(KM 104)- SUN GATE - MACHUPICCHU
1 stop
4
Machupicchu cusco
Your expert guide will meet you at your hotel at 6:00 a.m. for the transfer to Chachabamba (Km 104), the official starting point of the Short Inca Trail. After passing the government checkpoint, we explore the Chachabamba archaeological site (7,053 ft / 2,150 m).We continue with a 3-hour upward hike, until we reach Wiñay Wayna (8,694 ft / 2,650 m). Widely considered the most beautiful and best-preserved site on the entire trail, it is famous for its stunning agricultural terraces and ritual water fountains. Here, we enjoy a gourmet box lunch surrounded by living history and pristine nature.Following our break, we trek the final section through the cloud forest to reach Inti Punku. From this sacred threshold, you will get your first panoramic view of Machu Picchu bathed in the soft late-afternoon light.Finally, we descend through the upper terrace sector to capture those classic postcard photos before heading to the exit. We then take the shuttle bus down to Aguas Calientes
6 hours • Admission ticket included
Day 5
MACHUPICCHU - OLLANTAYTAMBO - RETURN TO CUSCO
1 stop
5
Cusco
The most anticipated day begins with a strategic goal: beating the crowds. After an early breakfast, we take one of the first shuttle buses to the citadel to witness Machu Picchu awaken under the magical morning light.Accompanied by an expert Ali Perú Treks guide, you will begin an in-depth two-hour tour. We will explore the most significant temples, plazas, and astronomical sectors, unveiling the secrets of Inca engineering and spirituality Following the tour, you will have free time to connect with the site's energy and capture unique photographs from the best vantage points.After descending to Aguas Calientes, you will have time for lunch before our staff escorts you to the station. The scenic train journey back to Ollantaytambo offers spectacular views of the Sacred Valley. Upon arrival, our private transportation will be waiting for a direct and comfortable transfer to your hotel door in Cusco, bringing an unforgettable expedition to a close.
2 hours • Admission ticket free

Additional info

• Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
• Not recommended for pregnant travelers
• Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
• Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

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