The Classic 5-Day Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu is one of the best alternatives to the Inca Trail and is a great option for the adventurers who want to experience the drastic changes in landscape from mountain to jungle, as well as for those who are able to handle the high altitude and long distances. Ascending the Salkantay Pass of 4650 m (approx. 15,300 ft) is challenging, but with the right preparation we know you’ll find this trek to be incredibly rewarding too. Read through our Frequently Asked Questions before your trek to make sure you feel as prepared as possible before your departure.
Tour Location: Cusco – Salkantay Trail.
Tour Type: Trekking – cultural.
Good For: Those in moderate shape, families.
Difficulty: Moderate – Challenging.
Consideration: Some preparation is required to avoid altitude sickness.
Season: Opened all year rund.
Explorer today your adventure start picking you up from your hotel in the centre of Cusco between 4:15 a.m. and 5:00 a.m., to drive you for 2 hours to the town of Mollepata (2900 masl) where we will have breakfast, then we will go to the trailhead, we will visit the Humantay Lake, then we will go to our camp located in Salkantaypampa, there we will have buffet lunch, tea time, dinner and spend the night in the shelter of our Andean cabins.
Today our chef will wake you up with coca tea, After a nutritious breakfast, we will start the most difficult part of the trek, You will walk uphill for 3 hours until you reach the highest point. You will realize that nature will change drastically from dry sceneries to snowy peaks and tropical areas. It is truly magical!, in Huaracmachay we will have our lunch, After lunch we will continue with the trek for 3 more hours, until our camp located in Chawllay.
At 6:00 am our cooks will wake us up with coca tea, then you will have to pack your things and you will also have breakfast, after breakfast the third day of walking will begin, leaving at 7:00 am from Chawllay towards to our Black Anaconda Camp, our descent path will last approximately 5 hours and will be surrounded by fruit trees, coca and cocoa plantations. Upon arrival at our camp our cooks will be waiting for us with a restorative lunch, after a nap we will participate in the COFFEE TOUR, in the afternoon we will visit the thermal baths of Cocalmayo and finally we will return to our camp for dinner and then rest comfortably in our jungle cabins.
Early at 5:00 am our cooks will wake you up with a cup of coffee, then have breakfast and at 6:00 am we will begin going by van to Lucmabamba and then we will start climbing for 3 hours by an original inca trail to Llactapata inca site, Upon arrival you will enjoy a magnificent view of Machu Picchu and the mountains (APUS), then we will go down for 2 hours to Hidroeléctrica to have lunch and then continue with the walk for 3:00 hours to Aguas Calientes where our hotel is waiting for us, where you can take a shower and get to know the town; Dinner is scheduled for 7:00 pm at a restaurant in Aguas Calientes. Likewise, after dinner we will begin preparing to visit the impressive lost city of the Incas (Machu Picchu).
Today, we will start early at around 4:00 a.m. to take the Inca Stairs up to Machu Picchu. In Machu Picchu, we will have a guided tour for about 2 hours. After we’ll be free to explore the citadel further and take more pictures.
For those who have previously selected to climb Wayna Picchu Mountain or Machu Picchu Mountain, you will do so at your designated time (7am, 9am or 11am).
Passengers returning by car must be at Hidroelectrica at 2 pm, to take bus to Cusco.
Passengers returning by train must be at the station 30 minutes before the departure of their train. Our mobility will be waiting for them in Ollantaytambo to bring them to the city of Cusco.
We will leave from Cusco approximately between 4:00 a.m. and 4:30 a.m. Our bus will pick you up from your hotel in the centre of Cusco to take you to the town of Mollepata (2900 masl) where we will arrive approximately at 6:30 in the morning. On the way you have all the time to get to know your fellow travellers as we will stay in the same group during the full trek. At Mollepata we will stop for breakfast, last minute supplies, leg-stretching and to use the restrooms. We will continue to our trek starting point, Challacancha (3850 meters above sea level). We will meet with our support staff such as the cook and muleters. They will load the general equipment and our duffel bags on horses and mules. Around 8:30 a.m., we’ll begin hike for around 90 minutes to the famous Humantay Lake. On our way we will have a beautiful view of the majestic Apu Salkantay, other mountains covered with snow, and the beautiful Valley of the Apurimac River, after we will come back untill.
Soraypampa then we are going to cotinues our hike untill Salkantay Pampa Camp, there we will have our restfull lunch. In the afternoon we will have tea time and dinner. You’ll sleep in the Eureka tent covered with a real Andean Huts a truly unique camping experience to permit you to enjoy the andean life.
Today, nature will change drastically from dry sceneries to snowy peaks and tropical areas. It is truly magical! After a nutritious breakfast, we will start the most difficult part of the trek. We’ll start the hike around 7:00 a.m. to walk for about 3 hours, gradually ascending, until reaching the highest point (4600 meters above sea level). We will appreciate spectacular views of the mountains and the imposing snowy peaks of the Salkantay (6264 masl) which is known as the second highest point of the Cusco region. After it goes all the way down for 3 hours and around 1:00 p.m., we will have our lunch in the local small community called Huayracmachay. After another walk of approximately 3 hours, we will arrive to our camp site in Chawllay (2900 masl). Around 5:00 p.m., we will have our tea time. You’ll also have the well-deserved time to recuperate from the trek, take a shower and eat dinner before going to our tents.
Around 7:00 a.m., we will start our trek. We will walk for about 5 to 6 hours toward Playa
Sahuayaco and during this period; we will observe a town called Collpabamba, also called the “Forest Cloudy Brow” where waterfalls, fruit-bearing trees, varied flora, and birds can be observed. If we are lucky, we will be able to observe the national Peruvian bird called the “Cock of the Rocks”. The flora and fauna in this area is breath-taking, and the guide will proudly give you more information if you are interested. Once we arrive a Playa Sayuayaco we have our buffet lunch and we take the bus to our campsite in Santa Teresa. In the
afternoon you will have the opportunity to go to the Hot Springs of Cocalmayo, one of the most beautiful hot springs in all of Peru. You will enjoy and relax at the medicinal hot pools in the afternoon. It is a real blessing for your muscles after all these days of hiking. Around 6:00p.m., we will return to our campsite for tea time and dinner.
Today wel will go by bus to Lucmabamba and then we begin the walk for 2 hours to the Inca ruins of Llactapata. Once at the entrance, we’ll start an ascent hike towards the
archaeological rests of Llactapata. On the way we will observe coffee plantations, banana plants and a diverse flora and fauna. After three hours, we’ll arrive at Llactapata where we will have an amazing first view of Machu Picchu. Here we’ll have time to rest and enjoy the scenery. A descending trail will take us to the Hydroelectric where we’ll eat lunch at a local restaurant. The last part of the trek, an approximately of 3 hours walking next to the train tracks, takes us to Aguas Calientes, also known as Machu Picchu Town. Upon arrival, you will be accommodated at the hostel or hotel of your choice. You will enjoy a Peruvian dinner at a local restaurant at about 7:00p.m.
Today, we will start early at around 4:30 a.m. to take the Inca Stairs up to Machu Picchu. In Machu Picchu, we will have a guided tour for about 2 hours. After we’ll be free to explore the citadel further and take more pictures. If you have the energy, we can recommend the walk up to the Sun Gate or ascent toward Huayna Picchu Mountain (you will need a
previous reservation to access Huayna Picchu) before walking back down. Later today, around noon you will have to start walking back to Hydroelectrica to catch the 3 pm
transport back to Cusco where we arrive around 9 – 11 pm. For sure you will enjoy a great night’s rest after this amazing trekking experience!
How many days do I need to acclimate myself in Cusco before the trek?
We recommend that you spend at least 2 to 3 days in the city of Cusco to help acclimate yourself and to avoid possible problems associated with altitude sickness during your trip. If you have already been to another destination with a high altitude before arriving to Cusco, we still recommend that you spend a full day in Cusco to rest, recuperate from your trip, and to enjoy the beautiful views of the city before departing for your trek.
What is the weather like in Salkantay?
In general Salkantay is known for its unpredictable weather, so no matter what time of year please come prepared for both warm and cold temperatures, and rainy and dry conditions. It helps to know what season you’re traveling in though and Salkantay experiences two main seasons, the rainy season (November-March) and the dry season (April-October).
During the rainy, warmer season temperatures average around 15°C / 60°F during the day and 5°C / 40°F at night. However, with a high chance of rain and wind at the Salkantay Pass, these temperatures may feel colder to you.
During the dry season the weather is sunny and clear and on average 20° C / 70 °F during the day but much colder at night, around -3 °C / 26 °F.
Also, after the second day, as we descend into the Peruvian Amazon basin, the weather changes to a more humid and warmer climate and these humid temperatures are consistent throughout the year.
What clothes do I need?
We recommend two long-sleeve trekking shirts, two short-sleeve shirts, leggings or trekking pants, shorts, four pairs of underwear, sweatpants for the night, three pairs of hiking socks, a rain poncho, an insulated jacket for the Salkantay Pass, gloves, beanie, a hat with a brim, hiking boots, a bathing suit (if you plan to visit the hot springs), and slip on sandals to rest your feet at the campsites.
What bags should I pack?
On the Salkantay Trek you will be permitted one personal daypack (a 30 to 50 L backpack is sufficient) and before your trek we will give you and one extra duffle bag from our office which can be used to carry your extra clothes and personal items.
What is the weight limit for my duffle bag?
Your weight limit for the duffel bag is 5kg/11.03lbs. The mules will carry your duffle bag along with food and camping equipment. It is important to note that you will not have access to your clothing items in this bag until the end of each day, as the muleteers and hor ses will always be in front of the group. So, put the items you’ll need immediately in your backpack and put the items you won’t need until the evening in your duffle bag.
How many meals are included?
The Salkantay 5D/4N Trek includes 4 breakfasts, 4 lunches, and 4 dinners. The only meals not included are breakfast on the first day and lunch/dinner on the last day after the tour of Machu Picchu.
What type food is served on the trek?
We serve a variety of traditional Peruvian dishes including rice, chicken, beef, fish, pasta, salad, potatoes, eggs, pancakes, bread, and for lunch and dinner each meal begins with a soup.
Do you offer vegetarian/vegan options?
Yes, vegetarian/vegan options are available. Let us know before your trek so we can accommodate and inform your chef.
Do you rent sleeping bags?
Yes, you can rent sleeping bags from our office for 15 USD. They are down feather sleeping bags that work in temperatures as low as -10°C.
Do you rent walking sticks?
Yes, you can rent a pair of walking sticks from our office for 10 USD.
Can I leave extra luggage in your office?
Yes, you can leave extra luggage in our office free of charge.
What are the sleeping conditions like at the campsites?
We currently have ANDEAN HUTS and IGLOO DOMES in each campsite. Them have a 4-person capacity but we only use them for 2 or 3 people per HUT and DOMES. We also include sleeping pads and pillow in all the HUTS and DOMES.
In Aguas Calientes you will sleep in a hotel.
What hostel does Salkantay Explorers use in Aguas Calientes?
If you have booked directly through Salkantay Explorers, we partner with VERONIKA INN, MAQTAS HOUSE or SOL DE LOS ANDES INN (close from the main square), the hotels have hot showers, wifi, and comfortable beds.
What are the minimum and maximum group sizes?
The minimum group size is 6 people and the maximum group size is 14 people.
What do you recommend to help alleviate altitude sickness?
Firs of all we recomend to hidratate, Chew coca leaves, drink coca tea or manzanilla tea (for stomach aches) at your campsites, and ask your guide for assistance. They are trained professionals equipped with the necessary aids to alleviate any discomfort associated with the altitude. They carry coca leaves, agua florida, and extra oxygen bottles.
Do I need hiking experience to complete this trek?
Prior hiking experience is recommended but not required. Our guides are trained to assist hikers of all fitness levels and all trekking experience levels so you will never be left behind. Most important of all is to acclimate yourself to the altitude before your trek.
If I need a break from walking during the trek, is there an option to take a horse?
Yes, on the second day during the assent from the Soraypampa campsite to the Salkantay Pass there is an option to rent a horse for 120 soles for the two-hour assent. Ask your guide for assistance, the horse can be rented at the Salkantaypampa property.
How much money should I bring with me?
For additional expenses along the route, we recommend bringing 300 soles (though you most likely won’t spend it all) and in small bills too to be used at the campsites and along the trek.
What additional expenses should I expect during the trek?
Bathrooms are free at the campsites but cost 1 sol along the route
Hot shower at the Chawllay campsite (10 soles)
Round trip transportation to the Cocalmayo hot springs in Santa Teresa (40 soles)
Entrance ticket to the Cocalmayo hot springs (10 soles)
Zipline on day 3 of the Salkantay 5D/4N Trek (25 USD at our office, 30 USD by booking at the camp)
Optional bus that runs between Aguas Calientes and Machu Picchu entrance (12 USD one way, 24 USD roud trip)
Food, wather/souvenirs in Aguas Calientes.
Note: Aguas Calientes is an expensive town, expect to pay 30 soles per meal.
Tips for guide, horsemen, and cooks.
What is the difference between the 5-day Salkantay trek and the 4-day Salkantay trek?
Both treks follow the same route up until day 3. After lunch on the 3rd day in our camp la Playa Sahuayaco, The 5 Days Salkantay trekkers go to do Zip line, then take a 1hour bus to Santa Teresa where is Cocalmayo Hot Springs, in the evening we come back to our camp site to spend the night in our sky huts.
After lunch on the 3rd day in Playa Sahuayaco, the 4 Day Salkantay trekkers take a bus from the lunch spot to Hidroeléctrica. In Hidroeléctrica they will walk three hours to Aguas Calientes where they will spend the night in a hostel.
Also, the Salkantay 4D/3N trek covers a total distance of 60 km/ 37 miles and the Salkantay 5D/4N trek covers 72 km/ 45 miles.
Is my ticket to Machu Picchu included in the price?
sure, the entrance ticket to Machu Picchu is included in all of our Salkantay tour packages.
How many hours do we spend in Machu Picchu?
In total you are permitted 3 hours in the park. The guided tour of Machu Picchu is approximately 2 hours after the tour you have 1 hour of free time to further explore the ruins on your own. KEEP IN MIND that regulations have changed and the tour in Machu Picchu is all a one-way path. That is, you cannot backtrack and revisit sites once you have passed them. In addition, once you exit the park you cannot re-enter. Therefore, take your time completing the route in Machu Picchu.
If I don’t want to hike to Machu Picchu from Aguas Calientes, can I take a bus?
Yes there the option to take the bus that runs between Machu Picchu and Aguas Calientes. It is 12 USD one-way and 24 USD for there and back. Tickets can be purchased in Aguas Calientes, ask your guide for further assistance when you arrive.
When do I reserve Wayna Picchu Mountain or Machu Picchu Mountain?
First, send us an email asking about availability. Then, if is available, select which mountain you would like to climb when you make your reservation online. Huayna Picchu and Machu Picchu Mountain are an additional 65 USD each.
What is Wayna Picchu Mountain?
Huayna Picchu Mountain is home to the Temple of the Moon and is the famous mountain peak seen behind the ruins in all the classic photos of Machu Picchu. Huayna Picchu is an approximately 45 minute climb with more ruins at the top and an incredible view of the Machu Picchu ruins down below. In total the visit to Huayna Picchu is approximately 2 hours. Huayna Picchu Mountain is an additional $65 USD.
What is the difference between Machu Picchu and Machu Picchu Mountain?
Machu Picchu refers to the ruins, which you will already have an entrance ticket to and will visit on a guided tour. Machu Picchu Mountain is an additional hike within Machu Picchu that offers a much higher view of the ruins and overlooks the entire valley. Machu Picchu Mountain is an additional $65 USD.
In the case of an emergency and I need to return to Cusco during the trek, what is the process?
If at any point you need to return to Cusco during your trek, MACHUPICCHU TREKKING PERU is not responsible for any refund and/or extra expenses for your return to Cusco. There are plenty of transportation options available at each campsite should a return be necessary. Ask your guide for further assistance.
What are your cancellation and refund policies?
Once you have made your reservation and initial deposit, you can cancel your trip at any time however we cannot refund your 50% deposit. One month before your trek, if you have already made your full payment and you decide to cancel, we can only refund 50% of your payment as your tickets to Machu Picchu and transportation tickets back to Cusco have already been purchased by this time and cannot be returned.
How do I make my reservation?
Go to our website www.salkantayexplorers.com select the trek you would like to do, and click BOOK NOW. When you make your reservation, you are also required to make a 50% deposit via PAYPAL, WESTERN UNION OR BY CARD, Your reservation will not be complete until this deposit has been made.
I’ve made my reservation, now what?
Congratulations, adventure awaits you! Before your trek, please stop by our office in Cusco at 399 Santa Teresa Street to complete the second half of your payment in cash or with card (can be paid in dollars or soles) and to receive a briefing on your trek with your guide.
Beautifull trail through the heart of the andean mountains. We had the hounour of being guided by Persy Cusi, whose knowledge about nature and Inca history and culture bewildered us through 4 days of walking. In adition, Persy made even the imposible for our confort and for us to have a nice trip (he has also amazing cooking habilities and knows the best spots for pictures where no other tourists went). Higly recomended trail, guide and touring company.
first of all machu picchu was amazing,but only can re-entry twice! wayna picchu was amazing too but there were only 2 slot of time 200 people can get inside each time, need to book the ticket before. My slot was 10-11 entry time, so we thought we could spend more time in machu picchu so we reached the entry gate at 11.
I recently visited Peru for a wedding in Lima…I took it upon myself to extend my trip by visiting Cusco so I could do some sightseeing and hiking. I researched and found Peru…reached out to them, told them when I would be there and what I wanted to do. They in return sent me a whole itinerary detailing each day. The trips were absolutely amazing, the tour guides were extremely knowledgeable, personable and fun.
What else to say about this beautiful, historic and amazing place. We hiked up the Wayna piccu to get an overlook on the maccu piccu and where lucky. It was absolutely breathtaking!
