The Salkantay trek to Machu Picchu is one of the most spectacular alternative routes to reach the ancient Inca city. This 5-day path takes you through diverse ecosystems, from Andean glaciers to tropical cloud forest, culminating in one of the wonders of the world: Machu Picchu.
The journey begins at the dazzling Humantay lake, and then ascends to 4,700 meters next to the majestic Apu Salkantay, you will feel like you can touch the sky with your hands.
As you descend, you will witness how the landscape dramatically transforms: permafrost gives way to lush cloud forests, and further down, you´ll find yourself surrounded by fragrant aromatic coffee plantations and fruit orchards, where you can taste authentic, freshly harvested Peruvian coffee.
The adventure is enriched by a rejuvenating stop at the hot thermal springs of Santa Teresa, a natural oasis that will revitalize your body and spirit. The trip culminates with a journey along the ancient and little-traveled Llactapata trail, which will provide you with the first unforgettable views of Machu Picchu.
From there, you will only have a short walk to reach your final destination: the mythical Inca citadel, one of the wonders of the world that awaits you to reveal its ancient secrets.
overview
Day 1 Cusco – Mollepat- Challacancha – Soraypampa
- 5:00 AM Pick up at your hotel
- Meals: Lunch and Dinner (optional breakfast in Mollepata)
- Estimated walking time: 6 hrs.
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Climate: Cold to Moderate
- Sleep in Soraypampa
Day 2: Soraypampa – Salkantay Pass – Collpapampa
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
- Estimated walking time: 8 hrs.
- Difficulty: Moderate to Challenging
- Climate: Warm and cold with mosquitoes
- Sleep in Chaullay
Day 3: Collpapampa – Wiñaypoco – Lucmabamba
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
- Estimated walking time: 6hrs.
- Difficulty: Moderate to Easy
- Weather: Warm
- Sleep in Lucmabamba
Day 4: Lucmabamba – Llactapata Inca Site – Aguas Calientes Village
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
- Estimated walking time: 6hrs.
- Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
- Weather: Warm with mosquitoes
- Sleep in Aguas Calientes
Day 5: Aguas Calientes Village – Machu Picchu – Cusco
- Meals: Breakfast
- Estimated walking time: 2hrs.
- Difficulty: Easy
- Weather: Warm
- Transportation back to Cusco.
itinerary
Itinerary:
Day 1: Cusco – Mollepata- Challacancha – Soraypampa
We begin our adventure at 5:00 AM from Cusco, traveling to Challacancha (3,400m), with a stop in the picturesque town of Mollepata (3,000m). In Challacancha, we will meet with our team of muleteers and trekking staff to begin the hike.
The trail gives us spectacular views of the snow-capped mountains Humantay (5,217m) and Salkantay (6,264m). After a 3-hour hike, we arrive at Soraypampa (3,700m), where we will enjoy a lunch prepared by our mountain chef and set up camp.
The afternoon has a special experience in store for us: the ascent to the Humantay Lagoon (4,220m), a turquoise mirror of water at the foot of the imposing snow-capped mountain of the same name ;
- Transport time: 4 hours.
- Hiking time: 2-3 hours.
- Climate: cold.
Additional option: During the route to Soray Pampa (3900m/12795ft), we suggest taking a 2-hour detour to visit the impressive Humantay Lake (4220m/13845ft) and contemplate the majesty of the snow-capped peak of Humantay.
Day 2: Soraypampa – Salkantay Pass – Collpapampa
After breakfast, we begin the ascent to the highest point of our adventure: the Salkantay Pass (4,600m). From this privileged height, we will contemplate the majesty of the snowy Salkantay (6,264m) in all its splendor. Then, our path gradually descends, revealing how the Andean landscape transforms into tropical forest.
The night awaits us in Collpapampa (3,350m), where we will camp surrounded by exuberant vegetation in a warm and tropical environment.
- Walking time: 10 – 11 hours
- Climate: Warm with mosquitoes.
Day 3: Collpapampa – Wiñaypoco – Lucmabamba (Discovering Coffee Paradise)
The day begins with a descent through a lush forest, home to colourful orchids and bromeliads. Our route passes through the communities of Wiñaypoco (2,650m), Granadilla (2,100m) and Lucmabamba (2,000m), where the mountains give way to thriving coffee, cocoa and fruit tree plantations.
The afternoon offers us a unique experience: immersion in coffee culture with a local family. You will discover the fascinating process of coffee, from its cultivation to the final cup.
You will learn how the plants take between 3 and 4 years to bear their first fruits, and why the harvest is traditionally done by hand, preserving ancestral techniques on these steep Andean slopes. The day ends at our camp in Lucmabamba, where you can share more moments with the local community and delve into the secrets of one of the most prestigious coffees in the world.
- Hiking time: 7 hours.
- Climate: Warm during the day with mosquitoes.
Optional: For those who wish to relax their muscles after trekking, we recommend a visit to the Santa Teresa hot springs. If you are interested, check with your guide to coordinate transportation from Lucmabamba (service not included).
Day 4: Lucmabamba – Llactapata Inca Site – Machu Picchu Village
Today’s adventure takes us along a stretch of the authentic Inca Trail to Llactapata (2,650m), an archaeological site that gives us the first spectacular views of Machu Picchu mountain and the imposing Vilcanota Canyon. The trail, surrounded by lush vegetation, connects us with the legacy of the Inca culture.
From here, we descend to the Hydroelectric Station (1,950m) for a well-deserved rest, before continuing our way to Machu Picchu Pueblo (2,050m), where we will spend the night in a hotel.
- Climate: warm with some insects.
- Walking time: 8-9 hours.
- Hotel: In Aguas Calientes.
Day 5: Machu Picchu Pueblo – Machu Picchu
We will begin our adventure early, leaving the hotel at 5:30 am to take a tourist bus that will take us to Machu Picchu (2400 m / 7874 ft). Around 6:00 am, we will be entering the majestic Inca citadel, just in time to contemplate how the first rays of the sun illuminate this impressive archaeological site.
During the guided tour, the guide will provide details about the various sectors of Machu Picchu, exploring places such as the Main Plaza, the Intihuatana (sundial), the Temple of the Sun and the agricultural terraces, as well as sharing information about the urban organization and ceremonial relevance of this site, declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO.
Optional: After the tour, you will have free time to continue exploring Machu Picchu or climb Wayna Picchu (2750 m / 9022 ft) on your own, discovering these places at your own pace.
The train departure from Aguas Calientes is scheduled for approximately 16:20 hrs towards the city of Cusco. During this time, you can enjoy lunch at one of the charming restaurants in the area or relax in the local hot springs to close the day with a rejuvenating experience.
Included
Includes:
High-quality service
- Professional bilingual guide (Spanish and English; other languages only if previously requested).
- Professional cook and assistant.
- Horses and mules to carry up to 7 kg of a client’s personal belongings/luggage.
- Emergency horse.
- First aid kit and oxygen bottle.
Transportation
- Private transportation from your hotel in Cusco to Mollepata/Marcoccasa (Day 1)
- Transporation of your personal belongings/lugagge from Lucmabamba to the “hidroeléctrica” trainstation (Day 4)
- Train ticket from “hidroeléctrica” trainstation to Aguas Calientes (Day 4)
- Bus ticket from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu (Day 5)
- Train ticket from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo (Day 5)
- Bus ticket from Ollantaytambo to Cusco (Day 5)
Accommodation
- In campsites with high-quality camping equipment (professional tent: Doite Top 4, for 2 people), mattresses, dining tent with table and chairs, hygiene services)
- 2-star Hotel in Aguas Calientes
Entrance Tickets
- Entrance Ticket to Salkantay National Park
- Entrance Ticket to Machu Picchu
- Meals: 5 x Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner & Snacks (If you are vegetarian, please notify us in advance)
- Cooked Water is provided, but you need to bring your own bottle or buy water on the way
Tour Does Not Include
- Breakfast on the first day and lunch on the last day in the Aguas Calientes village.
- Lunch and Dinner after Machu Picchu on the last day
- Sleeping bag (if you don’t have one, we offer high-quality rental sleeping bags 10° for $5.00 per day).
- Tourist Train from the Hydroelectric train station to Aguas Calientes village (Walking time in the rainforest for approximately 2 hours).
- Consettur bus ticket to return after the visit from Machu Picchu to Aguas Calientes village (We recommend doing this by foot, as it is a beautiful walk to end the visit, it takes about 1 hr. Alternatively there is the possibility of buying a ticket and it costs $ 12.00 per person.
Important Information for your Trek:
Luggage Transport:
- Days 1-3 (Challacancha to Collapapampa):
- Muleteers and mules will transport all camping equipment.
- Personal luggage (maximum 7kg per person).
Day 4: All luggage will be transported by vehicle to the Hydroelectric Power Station Access to Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain.
- *Advance reservation required
- *Additional cost: US$65.00
- *We guarantee entry (effective as of July 18, 2011).
Altitude Preparation:
- Arrive at least 48 hours before the start of the trek.
- Contact us immediately upon arrival in Cusco.
We will organize a meeting prior to departure Gratuities:
- Tips for guides and cooks are appreciated
Donations welcome:
- Clothing.
- School supplies for staff children.
What To Bring
- Backpack
- Rain poncho -> keep in mind that the weather can be very cold and humid; in this case, wet clothes do not have the time to dry
- Sleeping bag
- Clothes for hot and cold weather (e.g. short and long sleeve shirts, trekking pants, Wool or cotton socks, warm jacket, etc.)
- Trekking shoes
- Swimsuit and Sandals for Hotsprings
- Sun protection (hat & sunscreen)
- Insect repellent, hand sanitizer gel, toilet paper
- Water bottle or water purifying tablets
- Camera (waterproof or wrapped in a plastic bag), flashlight, and extra batteries
- Additional snacks: Cereal bars, chocolate, nuts, etc.
- Original passport and if applicable student card «ISIC» (for the entrance to Machu Picchu)
- Extra money in soles (Peruvian money)
Contact Us
More Information
Salkantay trek altitude
Cusco rises to 3,400 meters above sea level, which can be a challenge for some people. We recommend arriving in Cusco at least 48 hours before starting the trek, during which time you should drink plenty of fluids, avoid alcohol, and rest.
The maximum altitude for the Salkantay trek is 4,600 meters above sea level, which is the beautiful Salkantay Pass. The minimum altitude for the Salkantay trek is 2,200 meters above sea level at the final camp in Lucmabamba.
The altitude of the Salkantay peak is 6,271 meters above sea level (masl). The highest point is the “Salkantay Pass,” at 4,650 meters above sea level.
From there you can see the peak of the snowy mountain.
What is the Salkantay Trek?
The Salkantay Trek is an adventure hike that goes through mountains, snow-capped peaks, lagoons, and jungle before arriving at Machu Picchu. It’s one of the most popular treks in Peru. It doesn’t follow the Inca Trail, but many people choose it because it has incredible landscapes and doesn’t require an official permit. It’s ideal for those who want an intense nature experience.
What is the Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu?
The Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu is a tour that combines hiking and a visit to Machu Picchu. It lasts 4 or 5 days, starts in the Andes, passes the Salkantay Pass and Humantay Lake, and ends in the jungle. From there, you take the train to Aguas Calientes and visit Machu Picchu the next day. It’s a complete and very beautiful journey.
What does the Salkantay hike mean?
The Salkantay hike is another way to refer to trekking on this route. It’s not a short walk but a long, multi-day hike. It includes steep climbs, high altitude, and changing weather. But it also features unique landscapes like snow, lagoons, and jungle. Many travelers do it because it’s cheaper and less crowded than the Inca Trail.
What is the 4-day Salkantay Trek?
The 4-day Salkantay Trek is a shorter version of the classic route. It lasts 4 days and 3 nights. It starts in Soraypampa, ascends to the Salkantay Pass, descends into the jungle, and ends at Hidroeléctrica. From there, you take the train to Aguas Calientes and visit Machu Picchu on the fifth day. It’s ideal if you’re short on time but don’t want to miss the adventure.
What does the 4-day Salkantay Machu Picchu tour offer?
The 4-day Salkantay Machu Picchu tour is a complete package that includes everything: transportation from Cusco, a bilingual guide, food, tents, mules, entrance to Machu Picchu, and the return train ride. It’s one of the easiest ways to do the trek without worrying about the details. You only carry your personal backpack with the essentials.
What to see at Humantay Lake?
At Humantay Lake, you’ll see a turquoise-colored lake surrounded by snow-capped mountains. It’s at 4,200 meters (13,780 ft) and is very famous for its beauty. Many travelers take photos here. The path to the lake is short but steep. It’s recommended to go slowly and bring water. Some local communities hold ceremonies here out of respect for the Apu (mountain spirit).
What is the Salkantay Mountain?
The Salkantay Mountain is a very high peak with snow year-round. It is 6,271 meters (20,574 ft) high and is one of the most important in the region. During the trek, you’ll see it up close, especially from the Salkantay Pass. Local communities call it “Apu Salkantay” and respect it as a protector of the land.
What is the Salkantay Route?
The Salkantay Route is the path that travelers follow during the trek. It starts in Soraypampa, goes up to the pass, descends into the jungle, and ends near Machu Picchu. It passes through places like Challacancha, Chaullay, Collpapampa, and Hidroeléctrica. It’s one of the most complete adventure routes in southern Peru.
What does the Salkantay Trek tour include?
The Salkantay Trek tour includes: transportation from Cusco, a professional guide, all meals, camping equipment, mules, entrance to Machu Picchu, and the train from Hidroeléctrica. Everything is organized so you can enjoy it without worry. You only need to bring your backpack with clothes, shoes, and personal items.
What is Chaullay?
Chaullay is a campsite where you spend the second night of the trek. It’s at 3,600 meters (11,811 ft), in a green valley with rivers and pastures. Here you rest after ascending the pass. It’s a peaceful place with good views and fresh air. Many travelers sleep well here.
What is Mollepata?
Mollepata is a town that transportation passes through on the way to the start of the trek. It’s between Cusco and Soraypampa. It’s not a tourist destination, but some tours mention it as a passing point. It has adobe houses and a milder climate than Cusco.
What is Challacancha?
Challacancha is a small Andean village that the trek passes through. It’s near the Salkantay Pass. Here you can see families raising alpacas and llamas. It’s a place you pass through, but it’s very tranquil and has mountain views.
What is Collpapampa?
Collpapampa is a campsite in the low jungle, where you spend the third night. It’s at only 1,800 meters (5,905 ft), with a warm climate and tropical plants. Here you notice the change from cold to heat in just two days. It’s a good place to rest before the final stretch.
What is the 3-night Salkantay Trek?
The 3-night Salkantay Trek is a way of saying the trek lasts 4 days with 3 nights of camping. It’s the most common format. It includes three campsites: one at high altitude, another in the valley, and another in the jungle. It’s ideal for those who want the full experience without more days.
What is an economical Salkantay Trek?
An economical Salkantay Trek is a cheaper version of the journey. It covers the same places but may have larger groups, fewer comforts, or simpler food. It’s ideal for budget travelers who don’t want to miss the adventure.
When is the best time to do the Salkantay Trek?
The best time to do the Salkantay Trek is during the dry season from April to November. The most popular months are June, July, and August.
We recommend the dry season as there is less chance of rain and the days are sunnier, even though the nights are colder.
During the rainy season from December to March, there is a lot of heavy rain which can cause landslides that block the roads and trekking ways. February is the worst month, which is why most trekking trails are closed due to the high risk.
In the following chart you can view the average temperature of the region:
| High Temperature °F | Low Temperature °F | |
| Jan | 63 °F | 39 °F |
| Feb | 63 °F | 39 °F |
| Mar | 63 °F | 39 °F |
| Apr | 64 °F | 37 °F |
| May | 64 °F | 32 °F |
| Jun | 64 °F | 28 °F |
| Jul | 63 °F | 27 °F |
| Aug | 64 °F | 30 °F |
| Sep | 64 °F | 34 °F |
| Oct | 66 °F | 37 °F |
| Nov | 66 °F | 37 °F |
| Dec | 64 °F | 39 °F |
Can I do the Salkantay Trek on my own?
No, you cannot do the Salkantay Trek on your own. Even though you don’t need an official permit like for the Inca Trail, you must go with an authorized agency. They provide a guide, food, tents, and help you with the altitude. Going alone is neither safe nor permitted. Furthermore, the route goes through communal lands that require authorization.
Do I need a guide for the Salkantay Trek?
Yes, you need a guide for the Salkantay Trek. All tours include a bilingual guide who assists you throughout the entire journey. They tell you the history of the place, take care of you if you feel unwell, organize the meals, and lead you on the right path. It’s mandatory and very useful, especially because of the altitude.
How difficult is the Salkantay Trek?
The difficulty of the Salkantay Trek is high, especially on the second day when you ascend to the Salkantay Pass (4,600 meters / 15,092 ft). It’s cold, windy, and you hike for 6 to 8 hours. But if you’re in good shape, drink plenty of water, and take it slow, you can complete it. You don’t need to be an athlete, but you should have good physical condition.
What is the best time for the Salkantay Trek?
The best time for the Salkantay Trek is from May to October. This is the dry season, with less rain and clearer days. This is when most people go, so you need to book well in advance. From November to April there are more showers, especially in the jungle, but the landscape is greener and there are fewer tourists.
What is the Salkantay Machu Picchu trail?
The Salkantay Machu Picchu trail is another name for this trek. Even though it’s not the official Inca Trail, many people call it that because it ends at Machu Picchu. It’s a good alternative if you didn’t get a spot on the Inca Trail. It has more nature and fewer ancient stones, but it’s just as exciting.
What is Salkantay trekking?
Salkantay trekking is the general name for any hike in this area. It can last 4, 5, or 6 days. All routes pass by the Salkantay mountain, Humantay Lake, and end near Machu Picchu. It’s ideal for lovers of nature, adventure, and extreme landscapes.
Where does the Salkantay Trek from Cusco start?
The Salkantay Trek from Cusco starts in Soraypampa, about 3-4 hours from Cusco. The hike begins from there. Some tours depart from Mollepata or Challabamba, but they are all nearby. Your agency will pick you up from your hotel very early and take you to the starting point.
Why choose the Salkantay alternative to the Inca Trail?
The Salkantay alternative to the Inca Trail is a good option if you didn’t get a spot on the Inca Trail or are looking for something more economical. It doesn’t require a permit, has fewer tourists, and offers more varied landscapes: snow, lakes, jungle. Even though you don’t walk on Inca stones, you end up at Machu Picchu and experience a real adventure.
What is the Salkantay Pass?
The Salkantay Pass is the highest point of the trek, at 4,600 meters (15,092 ft). It’s the most difficult day, with cold and wind. But it’s also the most beautiful: from there you see the snow-capped mountain face-to-face and the landscape changes from snow to jungle. Many people rest here, take photos, and continue descending with energy.
What is Soraypampa?
Soraypampa is the place where the trek begins. It’s at 3,900 meters (12,795 ft), surrounded by mountains. From here, the hike to the Salkantay Pass starts. There are no hotels or restaurants, just small houses. It’s a passing point, but very important for the start of the journey.
What is Hidroeléctrica Machu Picchu?
Hidroeléctrica Machu Picchu is a small town where the hiking ends. From here you can walk 2 hours to Aguas Calientes or take a short train ride. It’s the last leg of the trek. Many tours include the train from here so you can rest before visiting Machu Picchu.
What to do in Aguas Calientes, Peru?
In Aguas Calientes, Peru, you can rest, have dinner, buy souvenirs, or take a bath in the hot springs (for a fee). It’s the town closest to Machu Picchu. There are ATMs, shops, and a train station. It’s advisable to arrive early to have some free time before the visit.
What is Wiñaypoco?
Wiñaypoco is a small community that the trek passes through before reaching Hidroeléctrica. It has no tourist services, but it’s part of the path. Some guides explain that the name means “forever young” in Quechua.
What is Granadilla, Peru?
Granadilla, Peru is a community that the Salkantay Trek passes through. It’s in the jungle zone, near the end of the route. Here the climate is warm and the vegetation is dense. It’s not a tourist spot, but it’s part of the trek’s natural environment.
What is the Apu Salkantay?
The Apu Salkantay is the name local communities give to the snow-capped mountain. They consider it a mountain spirit that protects the region. Some guides make a small offering before crossing the pass. It’s a way to respect the local culture.
What clothes to bring for the Salkantay Trek?
Bring layered clothing: a t-shirt, a fleece, a waterproof jacket, and comfortable pants. Wear well-broken-in hiking boots. At night it gets very cold, so bring warm clothes. In the jungle it will be hot, so you also need light clothing. Don’t forget a hat, sunscreen, and water.
Price
How Much Does It Cost?
We have price alternatives that accommodate all budgets, prices per person, expressed in US Dollars.
Make your quotes and reservations by email [email protected], you can also communicate with one of our sales executives at the telephones detailed below, we will be happy to assist you.
- Phone – WhatsApp: +51 969 787 221
- Phone – WhatsApp: +51 986 994 218
How To Book The Tour?
To start the reservation process, please send us the following information:
- Name and surname:
- Passport number:
- Nationality:
- Date of Birth:
- Phone:
- Very important – We need the address and information about the hotel that you are staying at, in the city of Cusco, to be able to pick you up at the time when the tour starts.
To confirm reservations it is required to pay 50% in advance and the other 50% can be paid upon arrival at your destination.
Payment Methods
- IZIPAY
- PAYPAL
- WESTER UNION
- MONEYGRAM
- TRANSFER TO OUR BANK ACCOUNT PERU
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