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Salkantay Trek 5 days

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USD $550

Salkantay Trek 5 Days to Machu Picchu

The Salkantay Trek 5 Days is one of the most spectacular ways to reach Machu Picchu on foot. This adventure takes you from the high Andes near Cusco through Humantay Lake, the imposing Salkantay Pass, cloud forest, tropical valleys, and finally to Machu Picchu.

Unlike the Classic Inca Trail, the Salkantay route combines dramatic mountain scenery with constantly changing ecosystems. During five days, you will hike beneath snow-capped peaks, cross the highest point of the trek at 4,630 m (15,190 ft), descend into warmer valleys, and spend the final night in Aguas Calientes before visiting Machu Picchu.

Our group service includes transportation, professional guides, meals during the trek, accommodation, entrance tickets, and the option to return to Cusco by train or by tourist bus.

Visit the turquoise Humantay Lake

Reach Salkantay Pass at 4,630 m (15,190 ft)

Visit the archaeological area of Llactapata

Explore Machu Picchu with a professional guide

Duration: 5 Days / 4 Nights

Tour Type: Group Trek

Starting Point: Cusco

Ending Point: Cusco

Maximum Altitude: 4,630 m / 15,190 ft

Difficulty: Challenging

Main Attractions: Humantay Lake, Salkantay Pass, Cloud Forest, Llactapata & Machu Picchu

Accommodation: Camps / mountain lodges + hotel in Aguas Calientes

Return Options: Train or tourist bus

Best Season: April to October

View Itinerary

Included

Pre-trek briefing in Cusco
Hotel pickup in Cusco
Transportation from Cusco to the trailhead
Professional English/Spanish-speaking trekking guide
Salkantay Trek entrance
Humantay Lake visit
Camping or mountain accommodation during the trek
Hotel in Aguas Calientes
Breakfasts during the trek
Lunches during the trek
Dinners during the trekking portion
Professional cook
Cooking equipment
Horses for group camping equipment
First-aid kit
Emergency oxygen
Machu Picchu entrance ticket – the circuit and route will be assigned according to availability at the time of booking.
Guided tour of Machu Picchu
Return transportation according to your selected package
Train + transfer to Cusco when Train Return is selected
Tourist bus from Hidroelectrica to Cusco when Bus Return is selected

Not Included

Breakfast on Day 1 if not specified at booking
Lunch and dinner on Day 5
Sleeping bag
Trekking poles
Personal backpack
Personal travel insurance
Entrance to Cocalmayo Hot Springs
Optional activities
Optional Hidroelectrica–Aguas Calientes train
Aguas Calientes–Machu Picchu shuttle bus unless selected
Extra snacks and drinks
Tips for guides, cooks, and trekking staff
Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain entrance unless booked as an additional service

Passport used for your reservation
Valid student ID if using a student discount
Travel insurance information
Some cash in Peruvian soles
Waterproof hiking jacket
Warm jacket or down jacket
Fleece
Thermal base layers
Trekking pants
Lightweight shirts
Underwear
Hiking socks
Warm hat
Sun hat or cap
Gloves
Comfortable clothes for sleeping
Comfortable hiking boots
Small daypack
Rain cover
Trekking poles
Sleeping bag
Reusable water bottle
Headlamp
Sunglasses
Sunscreen
Insect repellent
Personal medication
Toiletries
Toilet paper
Hand sanitizer
Small towel
Portable battery charger
Snacks

Machu Picchu Circuits

Machu Picchu currently operates with 3 main circuits divided into 10 routes. Entrance tickets are issued for a specific route rather than allowing unrestricted movement through the archaeological site.

Circuit 1 – Panoramic: Best for travelers primarily interested in elevated panoramic views and classic photographs of Machu Picchu. Some routes may include additional hikes depending on the season and ticket purchased.
Circuit 2 – Classic Machu Picchu: Our preferred option whenever availability allows. It provides a balanced experience combining classic viewpoints with important areas of the archaeological complex. Because it is one of the most requested options, tickets can sell out well in advance.
Circuit 3 – Royalty: Explores the lower sector of Machu Picchu and can be combined with certain additional routes depending on the ticket purchased.

Which Circuit Is Included in the Salkantay Trek?

We prioritize Circuit 2 whenever tickets are available.
However, Machu Picchu tickets are subject to government-controlled availability. If Circuit 2 is sold out, we will reserve the best available alternative for your travel date.
For this reason, we strongly recommend booking the Salkantay Trek several months in advance, particularly between May and September.
You can learn more in our complete Machu Picchu Circuits Guide.

Acclimatize Before the Trek

The Salkantay Trek reaches 4,630 m (15,190 ft) at Salkantay Pass.
We recommend spending at least two days in Cusco or the Sacred Valley before starting the trek.
Travelers arriving directly from sea level should avoid beginning the trek immediately after landing in Cusco.
Read our Salkantay Trek Altitude Guide for information about elevation along each day of the route.

Prepare Physically

You do not need technical mountaineering experience, but you should be comfortable walking several hours per day on mountain terrain.
Regular hiking, walking, running, cycling, or cardiovascular training before arriving in Peru can make the experience considerably more enjoyable.
See How Difficult Is the Salkantay Trek? for a complete breakdown by day.

Book Machu Picchu Early

Your Salkantay departure also depends on the availability of your Machu Picchu entrance ticket.
Tickets are sold for specific circuits, routes, dates, and entry times through Peru’s official booking system.
Booking early gives you a better chance of obtaining one of the most requested circuits.

Bring Only What You Need

You do not need to bring your large suitcase on the trek.
Leave unnecessary luggage at your hotel in Cusco and carry only the clothing and equipment required for the five days.
This is especially important when returning by train because railway companies impose restrictions on carry-on baggage.

Weather Can Change Quickly

Conditions vary dramatically during the trek.
You may experience intense sun, cold mountain temperatures, wind, rain, and warm humid conditions within the same trip.
Always carry waterproof protection and clothing that can be added or removed in layers.
For seasonal conditions, see our guide to the Best Time to Hike the Salkantay Trek.

We offer two options depending on how you prefer to return to Cusco.

Package	Adult	Student
Salkantay Trek 5 Days + Bus Return	From US$399	From US$379
Salkantay Trek 5 Days + Train Return	From US$499	From US$479

Student Discount

Eligible students receive a discount because Machu Picchu offers a reduced entrance rate for qualifying higher-education students. The standard foreign visitor entrance tariff currently differentiates between adult and eligible student rates.

To receive the student price, send us a clear photograph or scan of your valid student identification before your reservation is confirmed.

Student eligibility is subject to the requirements established by the Peruvian Ministry of Culture.

Book Your Salkantay Trek 5 Days

Cross the Andes, stand beneath Salkantay Mountain, visit Humantay Lake, walk through the cloud forest, and finish your adventure at Machu Picchu.

Choose the return option that fits your travel style:

Bus Return — best for budget travelers
Train Return — best for comfort and convenience

Reserve your Salkantay Trek 5 Days to Machu Picchu in advance to secure your preferred departure date and the best available Machu Picchu circuit.

Is the Salkantay Trek 5 Days difficult?

Yes. The trek is generally considered challenging because of the altitude, long hiking days, steep climbs, and the crossing of Salkantay Pass at 4,630 m.

It does not require technical climbing experience, but good physical preparation is recommended.

What is the hardest day of the Salkantay Trek?

Day 2 is generally the hardest day because you climb from Soraypampa to Salkantay Pass and then complete a long descent toward the cloud forest.

Altitude makes this section more demanding than the distance alone suggests.

Do I need a permit for the Salkantay Trek?

The Salkantay route does not use the same limited trekking permit system as the Classic Inca Trail.

However, your Machu Picchu entrance ticket is limited, so booking early is still very important.

Which Machu Picchu circuit will I get?

We prioritize Circuit 2 whenever possible because it provides one of the most complete classic Machu Picchu experiences.

If it is unavailable, we will use the best available circuit for your date.

Can I rent a sleeping bag and trekking poles?

Yes. Sleeping bags and trekking poles can be rented before departure.

We recommend reserving them when booking so they can be prepared before the trek.

Can beginners do the Salkantay Trek?

Yes, but beginners should prepare beforehand.

You do not need previous mountaineering experience, but completing the route without prior exercise or acclimatization can be difficult.

How many days should I acclimatize in Cusco?

We recommend at least two days of acclimatization before departure, particularly if you are arriving from a low-altitude destination.

During those days, you can explore Cusco or take a relatively easy tour through the Sacred Valley before beginning the trek.

What happens if I experience altitude sickness?

Tell your guide immediately.

Our trekking team carries a first-aid kit and emergency oxygen, and your guide will evaluate the safest course of action according to your symptoms and location.

Proper acclimatization before the trek remains the best preparation.

What is the best time to hike the Salkantay Trek?

The drier months, particularly April through October, are generally preferred for trekking because there is less rainfall.

Conditions are typically wetter during the rainy season, while high-altitude nights can be very cold during the driest months.

Read our complete Best Time to Hike the Salkantay Trek guide before choosing your travel date.

How far in advance should I book?

Booking several months ahead is recommended if you want a better selection of Machu Picchu circuits, particularly during Peru’s busiest trekking months.

Last-minute departures may still be possible, but Machu Picchu circuit availability can be limited.

From USD $550 per person

Select travel dates and number of travelers

Do you have any questions about your reservation?

+51 977 844 694 Chat now

Salkantay Trek 5 Days Itinerary

Cusco – Mollepata – Challacancha – Soraypampa – Humantay Lake

Start

Pickup Point

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Cusco

Stop: 30–45 minutes

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Mollepata – Breakfast

Stop: 45 minutes

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Challacancha – Start of the Trek

Stop: 3–4 hours

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Soraypampa – Lunch & Camp

Stop: 1–2 hours

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Humantay Lake

Stop: 3 hours round trip

View details and photos

Meals:

Breakfast, lunch & dinner

Accommodation:

Soraypampa
Highest point: 4,200 m / 13,780 ft

Soraypampa – Salkantay Pass – Wayraqmachay – Colpapampa

Soraypampa – Early Breakfast

Stop: 3–4 hours

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Salkantay Pass

Stop: 3 hours

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Wayraqmachay

Stop: 3 hour

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Colpapampa

Stop: 3 hours

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Meals:

Breakfast, lunch & dinner

Accommodation:

Colpapampa
Highest point: 4,630 m / 15,190 ft

Colpapampa – Cloud Forest – Playa Sahuayaco – Lucmabamba

Colpapampa

Stop: 2–3 hours

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Cloud Forest Villages

Stop: 2 hours

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Playa Sahuayaco – Lunch

Stop: 1–1.5 hours

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Lucmabamba

Stop: Afternoon / overnight

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Optional Stop: Cocalmayo Hot Springs

Stop: 2–3 hours

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Meals:

Breakfast, lunch & dinner

Accommodation:

Lucmabamba area

Lucmabamba – Llactapata – Hidroelectrica – Aguas Calientes

Lucmabamba

Stop: 2.5–3 hours

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Llactapata Archaeological Site & Viewpoint

Stop: 4 hours

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Hidroelectrica

Stop: 4 hours

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Aguas Calientes

Stop: Overnight

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Meals:

Breakfast & lunch

Accommodation:

Hotel in Aguas Calientes

Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu – Return to Cusco

Aguas Calientes

Stop: 25–30

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Machu Picchu Guided Tour

Stop: 2–3 hours

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Return to Aguas Calientes

Stop: 25–30 minutes

After completing the guided visit, you return to Aguas Calientes and have some free time before beginning your journey back to Cusco.

Option A: Return to Cusco by Train

Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo
Train ride: approximately 1.5–2 hours

Board the train from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo and enjoy the journey through the Sacred Valley.

Ollantaytambo to Cusco
Drive: approximately 2 hours

Upon arrival at Ollantaytambo station, our transportation will take you back to Cusco.

Total approximate return: 4–5 hours.

Option B: Return to Cusco by Tourist Bus

Stop 4: Aguas Calientes to Hidroelectrica
Hiking time: approximately 2.5–3 hours

After Machu Picchu, travelers choosing the budget return walk alongside the railway back to Hidroelectrica.

Stop 5: Hidroelectrica to Cusco
Drive: approximately 6–7 hours

At Hidroelectrica, you board tourist transportation for the journey back to Cusco through Santa Teresa and the surrounding mountain valleys.

Total approximate return: 9–10 hours including the walk.

View details and photos

Return to Cusco

Stop: depending

Option A: Return to Cusco by Train

Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo
- Train ride: approximately 1.5–2 hours
- Board the train from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo and enjoy the journey through the Sacred Valley.
Ollantaytambo to Cusco
- Drive: approximately 2 hours
- Upon arrival at Ollantaytambo station, our transportation will take you back to Cusco.

Total approximate return: 4–5 hours.

Option B: Return to Cusco by Tourist Bus

Aguas Calientes to Hidroelectrica
- Hiking time: approximately 2.5–3 hours
- After Machu Picchu, travelers choosing the budget return walk alongside the railway back to Hidroelectrica.
Hidroelectrica to Cusco
- Drive: approximately 6–7 hours
- At Hidroelectrica, you board tourist transportation for the journey back to Cusco through Santa Teresa and the surrounding mountain valleys.

Total approximate return: 9–10 hours including the walk.

View details and photos

End

End of the tour

From USD $550 per person

Salkantay Trek 5 days

Salkantay Trek 5 Days to Machu Picchu

What's Included in the Salkantay Trek 5 Days?

Included

Not Included

Packing List for the Salkantay Trek 5 days

Useful Information About the 5-Day Salkantay Trek

Machu Picchu Circuits

Which Circuit Is Included in the Salkantay Trek?

Before You Go

Acclimatize Before the Trek

Prepare Physically

Book Machu Picchu Early

Bring Only What You Need

Weather Can Change Quickly

Salkantay Trek 5 Days Price

Student Discount

Book Your Salkantay Trek 5 Days

Frequently Asked Questions About the Salkantay Trek 5 Days

Is the Salkantay Trek 5 Days difficult?

What is the hardest day of the Salkantay Trek?

Do I need a permit for the Salkantay Trek?

Which Machu Picchu circuit will I get?

Can I rent a sleeping bag and trekking poles?

Can beginners do the Salkantay Trek?

How many days should I acclimatize in Cusco?

What happens if I experience altitude sickness?

What is the best time to hike the Salkantay Trek?

How far in advance should I book?

Salkantay Trek 5 Days Itinerary

Cusco – Mollepata – Challacancha – Soraypampa – Humantay Lake

Cusco

Mollepata – Breakfast

Challacancha – Start of the Trek

Soraypampa – Lunch & Camp

Humantay Lake

Accommodation:

Soraypampa – Salkantay Pass – Wayraqmachay – Colpapampa

Soraypampa – Early Breakfast

Salkantay Pass

Wayraqmachay

Colpapampa

Accommodation:

Colpapampa – Cloud Forest – Playa Sahuayaco – Lucmabamba

Colpapampa

Cloud Forest Villages

Playa Sahuayaco – Lunch

Lucmabamba

Optional Stop: Cocalmayo Hot Springs

Accommodation:

Lucmabamba – Llactapata – Hidroelectrica – Aguas Calientes

Lucmabamba

Llactapata Archaeological Site & Viewpoint

Hidroelectrica

Aguas Calientes

Accommodation:

Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu – Return to Cusco

Aguas Calientes

Machu Picchu Guided Tour

Return to Aguas Calientes

Option B: Return to Cusco by Tourist Bus

Return to Cusco