Salkantay to Machu Picchu Tour 6 Days and 5 Nights
Discover the impressive Salkantay to Machu Picchu route in 6 days and 5 nights. A trekking adventure filled with unique landscapes, snowy mountains, and the magical Inca citadel. Book now this unforgettable experience!
Salkantay to Machu Picchu Tour
Cusco - Maximum Altitude 4,650 msnmDiscover the impressive Salkantay to Machu Picchu route in 6 days and 5 nights, a trekking adventure filled with unique landscapes, snowy mountains, and the magical Inca citadel.
The journey starts in Cusco, from where you will transfer to the town of Mollepata to begin the hike. Along the route, you will enjoy Andean landscapes, snow-capped peaks like the imposing Salkantay (4,650 m.a.s.l.), turquoise lagoons, and cloud forests with rich biodiversity.
You will pass through unique places such as Soraypampa, Collpapampa, La Playa, and the archaeological complex of Llactapata, with impressive views of Machu Picchu from another angle. The tour ends with a guided visit to the mystical Inca Citadel of Machu Picchu, one of the 7 modern wonders of the world.
Unforgettable Experience: This experience combines history, nature, living culture, and adventure, with accommodation in organized camps and one night in a hotel in Aguas Calientes, to end the trip in total comfort. Live an adventure you will never forget!
Salkantay to Machu Picchu Tour
General Information
Service Type: Private (min 2 people)
Duration: 6 days/5 nights
Start: 4:30 am
Maximum Altitude: 4,650 masl
Difficulty Level: Moderate - Challenging
Guide Language: Spanish and English
Description
6-day and 5-night Salkantay to Machu Picchu Tour. This route is an ideal alternative to the Inca Trail, perfect for adventure lovers, nature, and Andean culture.
The journey starts in Cusco, from where you will travel to the town of Mollepata to begin the hike. Along the route, you will enjoy Andean landscapes, snow-capped peaks like the imposing Salkantay (4,650 m.a.s.l.), turquoise lagoons, and cloud forests with rich biodiversity.
You will cross unique places like Soraypampa, Collpapampa, La Playa, and the Llactapata Archaeological Complex, with impressive views of Machu Picchu from another angle. The route ends with a guided visit to the mystical Inca Citadel of Machu Picchu, one of the 7 modern wonders of the world.
This experience combines history, nature, living culture, and adventure, with accommodation in organized camps and one night in a hotel in Aguas Calientes, to end the trip with total comfort.
Highlighted Sites of the Route Places and experiences
- Soraypampa
First camping point at 3,900 m.a.s.l., surrounded by the impressive Humantay and Salkantay snow-capped peaks. It is the perfect place to acclimate and enjoy unforgettable views at sunset and sunrise.
- Salkantay Pass (4,650 m.a.s.l.)
The highest point of the route, where you feel the energy of the majestic Apu Salkantay. From here, the descent to the high jungle begins.
- High Jungle (Ceja de Selva)
Section with warmer climate, lush vegetation, natural waterfalls, and sighting of typical flora and fauna. It is an impressive transition between the Andes and the Amazon.
- Llactapata
Important archaeological site with a unique view of Machu Picchu from the opposite side of the classic viewpoint. A little-explored gem that combines history, mysticism, and nature.
- Hydroelectric
Crucial logistical point before arriving in Aguas Calientes. Here, a final hike is done or the local train is taken to head to the base town of Machu Picchu.
- Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu Pueblo)
Tourist town where you stay overnight before visiting the Inca citadel. It offers comfortable accommodation, restaurants, and the option to relax in thermal baths.
- Machu Picchu
Modern wonder of the world and symbol of Inca civilization. The visit includes a guided tour of its main temples, plazas, terraces, and sacred spaces.
Why choose this experience? Advantages and reasons
- Scenic alternative route: The Salkantay Trek is less crowded than the classic Inca Trail, providing a more authentic, intimate experience in contact with the virgin nature of the Andes.
- Ideal for adventure lovers: This hike combines mountainous terrain, high-altitude passes, and jungle sections, perfect for those seeking a physical and emotional challenge.
- Includes Machu Picchu: Ending the route by visiting Machu Picchu is the cherry on top. The experience is completed with a guided tour of the most important sectors of the citadel.
- Guaranteed safety: We have expert guides, portable oxygen, and first aid kits, plus support staff and pack horses that ensure a safe and well-organized experience.
Why travel with us? Quality Guarantee
- We are tourism operators in the city of Cusco
- We work professionally
- We offer 100% tourist vehicles
- We care about the safety of our visitors
- We make your trip the best experience
- We are 100% responsible
- We care for the environment
- We are committed to service quality
- We have our own tourist restaurant
🗓️ Day 1: Cusco – Mollepata – Markokasa – Soraypampa Start
Hotel pickup at 04:30 a.m. Departure in tourist transportation to the town of Mollepata (4 hours travel). During the journey, several Andean towns are crossed, with views of typical agricultural fields in the region. Arrival in Mollepata and American breakfast at the tourist restaurant "Casa Salkantay". Start of the hike to Tres Cruces, where lunch will be served with a spectacular view of the Limatambo valley. Then, hike to Soraypampa, site of the first camp. Dinner and overnight with impressive views of the Humantay and Salkantay snow-capped peaks.
🏔️ Day 2: Soraypampa – Salkantay Pampa – Salkantay Pass – Collpapampa Mountain
Early breakfast. Start of the hike at the foot of the Salkantay Glacier (Apu Salkantay). Arrival at Salkantay Pass (4,650 msnm), the highest point of the route. Pachamama Payment Ceremony (Mother Earth) as part of Andean tradition. Continuation to Huayrac, where lunch is served. After lunch, descent to Chaullay. Camp, dinner and overnight in Chaullay.
🌿 Day 3: Collpapampa – La Playa – Lucmabamba Jungle
Early breakfast. Hike along a more stable path through the high jungle, with diversity of flora and fauna. Arrival at La Playa, where lunch will be served. Then continue the hike to Lucmabamba, camp site. Dinner and overnight in Lucmabamba.
🏛️ Day 4: Lucmabamba – Llactapata – Hydroelectric – Machu Picchu Pueblo Archaeological
Breakfast and start of the ascent to the Llactapata Archaeological Complex, approximately 3-hour tour, including guided visit. Descent to the Hydroelectric, where lunch will be served. After lunch, local train ride (45 minutes) to the town of Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu Pueblo). Possibility to visit the thermal baths (optional). Accommodation in hotel and coordination with the guide for the visit to Machu Picchu the next day.
🏛️ Day 5: City Tour in Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu Citadel
Buffet breakfast at the hotel. Free morning to stroll around the town of Aguas Calientes or shop. Free lunch (at passenger's expense). Ascent to the Machu Picchu entrance (approximately 20 minutes on foot). Guided tour of 2 hours through the main sectors of the Inca Citadel (Temple of the Sun, Temple of the Three Windows, intihuatana, agricultural terraces). Free time for photographs. Return by bus to Aguas Calientes town. In the evening, city tour in Aguas Calientes and overnight at the hotel.
🚂 Day 6: Machu Picchu – Cusco Return
Early breakfast at the hotel. Train ride (Expedition service) back to Ollantaytambo. Continuation by bus to the city of Cusco. Approximate arrival in Cusco at 1:30 p.m. and transfer to the hotel.
🏡 End of tour in Cusco Final
Transfer to the hotel in Cusco. End of our services with unforgettable memories of a unique adventure in the Peruvian Andes.
✅ Salkantay to Machu Picchu Tour Includes
Hotel pickup at 04:30 a.m.
We pick you up punctually to start this incredible experience without worries.
Tourist transportation Cusco - Mollepata - Soraypampa - Collpapampa - Aguas Calientes - Cusco
Comfortable travel in vehicles suitable for the trekking route.
Bilingual professional guide (Spanish-English)
Our guide will accompany you throughout the experience, sharing knowledge about Andean culture.
Machu Picchu entrance
Access included to the modern wonder of the world.
Train ticket Aguas Calientes - Ollantaytambo
Panoramic train transportation back.
Bus ticket Aguas Calientes - Machu Picchu
Bus transportation to the Machu Picchu entrance.
Huayna Picchu entrance (optional)
Optional access to the sacred mountain with spectacular views.
Meals: 5 breakfasts, 5 lunches, 5 dinners
Nutritious meals throughout the trekking.
Accommodation: 1 night in Soraypampa, 1 night in Collpapampa, 1 night in Aguas Calientes
Accommodation in camps and hotel during the tour.
Camping equipment: tents, sleeping mats, sleeping bags
Complete equipment for mountain camping.
Pack horses for luggage
Luggage transportation by horses for greater comfort.
Luggage storage
Safe storage for your personal luggage.
First aid kit
Basic equipment for minor emergencies.
Oxygen
Oxygen bottle for high altitudes.
Communication radio
Constant communication during the trekking.
Permanent assistance during the tour
Constant accompaniment to guarantee your safety and well-being.
Trekking certificate
Official certificate upon completing the trekking.
❌ Not Included
Additional meals
Any food or drink outside of those included in the package.
Tips for guide and porters
Tips are not included and are optional, but always well received.
Travel insurance
We suggest contracting travel insurance for greater coverage.
Additional drinks
Any drink outside of the included meals.
Personal expenses
Personal purchases, phone calls, etc.
🌟 XTravel Recommendation
Book in advance and bring personal documents. Live the Salkantay Trek adventure and discover the magic of Machu Picchu! ✨
What to Bring - Salkantay to Machu Picchu Tour
- Original Passport or ID Mandatory document for entry to Machu Picchu and registration.
- Small Day Backpack To carry essentials during daily hikes.
- Comfortable Trekking Clothing Lightweight and breathable garments for mountain hikes.
- Waterproof Jacket Protection against rain and cold at high altitudes.
- Trekking Shoes Durable and comfortable footwear for hikes on rough terrain.
- Hat or Cap Protection against the sun during outdoor hikes.
- Sunscreen High SPF to protect against intense solar radiation in the mountains.
- Insect Repellent Protection against mosquitoes and other insects in jungle areas.
- Reusable Water Bottle To stay hydrated during hikes.
- Energy Snacks Energy bars, dried fruits to maintain your energy.
- Headlamp For night hikes or emergencies.
- Trekking Poles (Optional) Help with descents and ascents for greater stability.
- Sleeping Bag (Optional) If you prefer to bring yours for greater comfort.
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Gerard C
January 31, 2025
Thanks Eco Tour Cusco
Mr. Torres
January 24, 2025
One of the best tours you can do
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January 18, 2025
Exceptional service to Machu Picchu
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