Trek from the high Andes to Machu Picchu through Humantay Lake, the Salkantay Pass, cloud forest and the high jungle on a private 5-day adventure.
Service: Private | Best For: Couples, Families, Friends & Adventure Travelers
Experience one of Peru’s most spectacular trekking routes with an extra day to fully immerse yourself in the Andes and high jungle. From the turquoise waters of Humantay Lake and the high-altitude Salkantay Pass to the lush coffee farms, cloud forest, and Machu Picchu, this private trek brings together Peru’s most dramatic landscapes at an enjoyable, well-paced cadence.
Trekking: Approx. 12 km
Walking Time: Approx. 5 hours
Difficulty: Moderate
Accommodation: Soraypampa
Your Salkantay adventure begins with a private departure from Cusco toward the Andean town of Mollepata. From Challacancha, the trek begins through spectacular mountain scenery toward Soraypampa.
In the afternoon, continue to Humantay Lake, one of the most impressive highlights of the route. Surrounded by towering peaks, its turquoise waters create an unforgettable first day in the Andes.
Highlights
Overnight: Soraypampa
Las rutas actuales de 4 días suelen comenzar precisamente con Cusco, Mollepata, Challacancha, Soraypampa y Humantay Lake.
Trekking: Approx. 22 km
Walking Time: Approx. 8–9 hours
Difficulty: Challenging
Maximum Altitude: Approx. 4,630 m
Accommodation: Chaullay
Day two is the most demanding section of the Salkantay Trek. After an early breakfast, begin the ascent toward the Salkantay Pass, the highest point of the route.
At approximately 4,630 meters, the landscape opens into an extraordinary high-altitude panorama beneath the Salkantay Mountain. From the pass, the route begins a dramatic descent toward the warmer environments of the cloud forest.
Highlights
Overnight: Chaullay
Este es normalmente el día físicamente más exigente, y las rutas actuales sitúan el paso alrededor de los 4,630 m.
Trekking: Approx. 16 km
Walking Time: Approx. 5–6 hours
Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
Maximum Altitude: Approx. 2,900 m
Accommodation: Lucmabamba Jungle Domes / Camp
We trek along gentle trails following the Santa Teresa River valley through lush cloud forests, passion fruit orchards, and banana groves. We arrive at Lucmabamba where we enjoy an authentic organic coffee tasting experience, learning how local farmers harvest, roast, and grind native coffee beans.
Highlights
High jungle trail & river valleys
Coffee plantations & organic tasting experience
Tropical flora, orchards and native wildlife
Optional evening visit to Cocalmayo hot springs
We ascend along an original stretch of the Inca Trail through avocado and coffee farms up to the archaeological site of Llactapata. Here, enjoy a rare direct view of Machu Picchu from across the valley. After exploring the ruins, we descend to Hidroeléctrica for lunch before taking the scenic walk along the train tracks to Aguas Calientes.
Highlights
Early morning bus ride up to the iconic Inca citadel of Machu Picchu. Enjoy a comprehensive guided tour with your private guide, visiting key temples, plazas, and sacred structures while learning about Inca history and architecture. After the tour, descend to Aguas Calientes to board your return train to Ollantaytambo or Poroy, followed by private transport back to Cusco.
Highlights
Rest in comfortable accommodations selected for their location, comfort and unique experience along the route.
The 4-Day Salkantay Trek is considered a moderate to challenging trekking experience. The most demanding section is the ascent to Salkantay Pass, where altitude reaches approximately 4,630 meters.
Fitness: Good physical condition recommended
Altitude: Up to approximately 4,630 m
Hardest Day: Day 2
Best Preparation: Acclimatize in Cusco before trekking
More Than a Trek. Your Own Salkantay Experience.
The Salkantay Trek operates throughout the year, but weather conditions vary considerably between seasons. Your itinerary should be planned according to your preferred travel conditions and trekking experience.
