Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu Tour of 5 Days and 4 Nights from Cusco
The adventure of a lifetime awaits you! 🏔️✨ Explore the impressive Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu in 5 exciting days 🥾❄️🌿. Walk alongside the snowy Salkantay, visit the magical Humantay Lagoon 💙, cross the Andean jungle 🌺🦋, relax in hot springs 🛁🔥 and end at the incredible Inca citadel of Machu Picchu 🏛️🌄. Fewer tourists, more nature, 100% adventure! Book now and make it happen!
Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu
Cusco - PeruDiscover the adventure of the Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu in 5 days and 4 nights. An unforgettable hike from Cusco, with Andean landscapes, jungle and Inca culture.
From your departure in Cusco, you will traverse ancestral routes between glaciers like Salkantay and Humantay, with the opportunity to visit the beautiful Humantay Lagoon. Throughout the journey, the landscape changes radically: you will go from the cold heights of the Andes to the warm and lush cloud forest, where you will discover amazing biodiversity.
You will visit traditional villages, coffee plantations, natural waterfalls and little-known archaeological sites like Llactapata, with a unique panoramic view of Machu Picchu. You can also relax in the famous Cocalmayo hot springs in Santa Teresa. The hike culminates in a magical experience: sunrise at Machu Picchu, one of the Seven Modern Wonders of the World, with a guided tour of its temples, terraces and ceremonial centers.
Complete Experience: This tour is ideal for those seeking a less traveled route than the Inca Trail, but equally spectacular. It does not require special permits and is designed to offer you a complete experience of adventure, nature and culture. Dare to live this unforgettable hike!
Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu
General Information
Service Type: Private (min 2 people)
Duration: 5 days/4 nights
Start: 5:00 am
Max. altitude: 4,540 masl
Difficulty Level: Moderate
Guide language: Spanish and English
Description
From your departure in Cusco, you will traverse ancestral routes between glaciers like Salkantay and Humantay, with the opportunity to visit the beautiful Humantay Lagoon. Throughout the journey, the landscape changes radically: you will go from the cold heights of the Andes to the warm and lush cloud forest, where you will discover amazing biodiversity.
You will visit traditional villages, coffee plantations, natural waterfalls and little-known archaeological sites like Llactapata, with a unique panoramic view of Machu Picchu. You can also relax in the famous Cocalmayo hot springs in Santa Teresa. The hike culminates in a magical experience: sunrise at Machu Picchu, one of the Seven Modern Wonders of the World, with a guided tour of its temples, terraces and ceremonial centers.
This tour is ideal for those seeking a less traveled route than the Inca Trail, but equally spectacular. It does not require special permits and is designed to offer you a complete experience of adventure, nature and culture.
Highlights of the Route Places and experiences
- Nevado Salkantay (4,650 m.a.s.l.)
Imposing sacred mountain of the Andes and second highest peak in the Cusco region. It is one of the most venerated Apus by the ancient Incas. Its presence dominates the landscape during the second day of the trek.
- Humantay Lagoon
Located at the foot of the Humantay glacier, this turquoise lagoon is one of the most impressive natural destinations on the route. Ideal for those seeking to connect with nature and take spectacular photos.
- Salkantay Pass
The highest point of the trekking (4,650 m.a.s.l.). From here you have spectacular panoramic views of snowy mountains, deep valleys and the transition to the jungle. It is the most challenging, but also the most rewarding moment of the tour.
- Andean Cloud Forest
As you descend, the climate changes drastically from cold Andean to warm tropical. You will traverse the lush cloud forest, with abundant vegetation, waterfalls, rivers and fauna like hummingbirds, parrots and butterflies.
- Llactapata Archaeological Site
Ancient Inca observatory, located in front of Machu Picchu. From this strategic point, you get a unique view of the Inca Citadel, framed between mountains and clouds. It is a little-known archaeological gem.
- Cocalmayo Hot Springs
Located in Santa Teresa, these natural hot springs offer warm and medicinal waters, ideal for relaxing after several days of hiking. Surrounded by mountains and vegetation, they are a gift for the body.
- Machu Picchu Inca Citadel
The final destination of the journey. Considered one of the Seven Modern Wonders of the World, Machu Picchu offers history, architecture and mysticism in every corner. You will explore temples, terraces, plazas and viewpoints with our professional guide.
Why choose this experience? Advantages and reasons
- Alternative Route to the Traditional Inca Trail: The Salkantay Trek is an excellent option for those seeking a less touristy experience, but equally impressive. No special permits required like in the classic Inca Trail.
- Adventure and Culture Combined: You will not only hike between mountains; you will also learn about local customs, Inca archaeology and Andean traditions. All guided by experts passionate about their culture.
- Gastronomy on the Route: Our trekking chefs prepare fresh, nutritious and delicious food throughout the journey. We also cater to special diets (vegetarian, vegan, etc.).
- Safety and Professionalism: We have first aid equipment, radio communication and certified guides with high mountain experience. Your safety is our priority.
- Epic Finale at Machu Picchu: The hike ends with the guided visit to Machu Picchu, crowning your effort with one of the most magical destinations on the planet.
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 our visitors' safety
- 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 - Soraypampa (Choquequirao) - 5:00 am Start
Departure from Cusco towards the town of Mollepata. During the journey, we will observe the beautiful Andean landscape and local communities. From Mollepata, we will begin the hike towards Soraypampa, where we will camp for the first time. Along the way, we will visit the impressive Choquequirao ruins, an Inca citadel.
🏔️ DAY 2: Soraypampa - Salkantay Pass - Chaullay - Playa Sahuayaco Mountain
Today is the most challenging day of the trek. From Soraypampa, we will ascend to the Salkantay Pass (4,650 m.a.s.l.), the highest point of the journey. From here, we will enjoy spectacular panoramic views. Then we will descend towards the town of Chaullay and continue to Playa Sahuayaco, where we will camp.
🌿 DAY 3: Playa Sahuayaco - La Playa - Santa Teresa - Hydroelectric Jungle
We will descend from Playa Sahuayaco to La Playa, where we will change valleys. We will continue to Santa Teresa, an agricultural town in the cloud forest. Here we can relax in the famous Cocalmayo hot springs. Finally, we will arrive at the hydroelectric plant, where we will spend the night.
🏛️ DAY 4: Hydroelectric - Aguas Calientes - Machu Picchu Archaeology
From the hydroelectric plant, we will take a train to Aguas Calientes, the town base of Machu Picchu. Here we can rest and have lunch. In the afternoon, we will make the guided tour of Machu Picchu, exploring its temples, terraces and plazas. We will enjoy the sunset at the Inca Citadel before returning to Aguas Calientes to spend the night.
🚂 DAY 5: Machu Picchu - Cusco Return
Early in the morning, we will return to Machu Picchu to enjoy the sunrise at the Inca Citadel (optional, with additional ticket). Then we will take the return train to Ollantaytambo and from there a tourist bus back to Cusco. Arrival in Cusco in the afternoon, end of our services.
✅ Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu Includes
Hotel pickup in Cusco
We pick you up punctually from your hotel in Cusco to start the trek without worries.
Professional bilingual guide
Our certified guide will accompany you throughout the trek, sharing knowledge about history, culture and Andean nature.
Complete meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner, snacks)
Our trekking chefs prepare fresh, nutritious and delicious food throughout the journey. We cater to special diets.
Machu Picchu entrance ticket
Access included to the Inca Citadel of Machu Picchu with complete guided tour.
Return tourist train
Expedition train from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo for comfortable return to Cusco.
Return transfer to Cusco
Tourist bus from Ollantaytambo to Cusco upon completion of the trek.
Comfortable tents
Professional camping equipment for comfortable rest during the 4 nights.
Complete camping equipment
Tables, chairs, kitchen utensils and all necessary equipment for the camp.
Pack horses (for luggage)
Horses to transport group luggage, facilitating the hike.
First aid kit
Complete medical equipment and oxygen for emergencies in high mountain.
Oxygen and radio communication
Radio communication system and emergency oxygen for your safety.
❌ Not Included
Cusco - Hydroelectric bus ticket (optional)
Optional transportation from Cusco to the hydroelectric plant for those who prefer not to hike.
Travel insurance
We recommend purchasing travel insurance that covers adventure activities and high mountain.
Alcoholic beverages
Alcoholic beverages are not included during the trek for safety reasons in high mountain.
Tips for guide and staff
Tips are optional and given directly to the staff at the end of the tour if the service was satisfactory.
Extra expenses not specified
Any additional expense not mentioned in the program is the responsibility of the passenger.
🌟 XTravel Recommendation
Book in advance. The Salkantay Trek is a unique experience combining adventure, culture and nature. Prepare yourself to live unforgettable moments! ✨
What to Bring - Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu
- Appropriate clothing for cold and hot weather Thermal layers, waterproof jackets and light clothing for changing weather conditions during the trek.
- Comfortable hiking footwear Waterproof trekking boots with good support for multi-day hikes.
- Rain poncho or jacket Protection against frequent rain in the Salkantay area.
- Hat or cap Sun protection for the head during exposed hikes.
- Sunscreen High SPF (SPF 50+) to protect against intense UV radiation in high mountain.
- Insect repellent Protection against mosquitoes and other insects in the cloud forest.
- Sunglasses Essential UV protection for eyes during high mountain hikes.
- Water bottle or canteen Reusable bottle of at least 1 liter to stay hydrated during hikes.
- Energy snacks Cereal bars, nuts or chocolates to maintain energy during the trek.
- Personal documents (ID, passport) Mandatory identity document for registration and safety during the trek.
- Day backpack Small backpack (20-30L) to carry essentials during daily hikes.
- Trekking poles (optional) They help on descents and ascents, especially useful for people with knee problems.
- Headlamp Essential for early mornings and moving around the camp at night.
- Sleeping bag Comfort temperature down to 0°C for cold nights in high mountain.
- Sleeping pad Includes comfortable sleeping pad and insulating pad for sub-zero temperatures.
- Change of clothes Underwear and extra socks to maintain hygiene during the trek.
- Personal towel Quick-dry towel for showers and hot springs during the journey.
- Personal hygiene items Toothbrush, toothpaste, biodegradable soap and other hygiene items.
- Personal medications Medications you take regularly, pain relievers and basic personal first aid kit.
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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
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