The Best Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu 5 days

¿WHAT WE EXPECT?

The Best Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu 5 days

What sets this trek apart is its flexibility. Unlike the Inca Trail, no government permit is required for the Salkantay route. This makes it easier to plan a last-minute hike or tailor your trip to fit your personal travel style.

I recently completed the Salkantay Trek as a solo traveler, and I’ve created this guide to share everything I learned—covering practical tips, detailed planning advice, and what to expect each day on the trail.

Whether you’re a seasoned backpacker or a fit traveler looking to try your first self-guided hike, with a bit of preparation and the right mindset, you can absolutely conquer the Salkantay Trek without a tour.

The Best Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu 5 days

Cultural Connection & Natural Wellness

As you descend from the highlands, the terrain transforms into the tropical cloud forest, rich in biodiversity and cultural charm. Along the way, you’ll:
Explore organic coffee plantations and taste locally grown beans.
Walk alongside fruit trees and waterfalls.
Relax your muscles in the soothing thermal baths of Cocalmayo—a perfect mid-trek treat for your body and mind.

First Glimpse of Machu Picchu from Llactapata

One of the most emotional highlights of the trek is your arrival at Llactapata, an Inca archaeological site with a spectacular panoramic view of Machu Picchu in the distance. This is your first look at the Lost City of the Incas, and it will stay with you forever.

Aguas Calientes & The Grand Finale

Your adventure ends with a restful night in a comfortable hotel in Aguas Calientes, the quaint town at the base of Machu Picchu.

The next morning, you’ll rise early for a fully guided tour of Machu Picchu, where ancient history and breathtaking architecture combine for an unforgettable final chapter.

To top it all off, your return to Cusco is aboard the luxurious Vistadome or 360° panoramic train, offering sweeping views of the Sacred Valley. It’s the perfect way to reflect on your journey.

Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu 5 days:

The Salkantay Trek is a number one alternative to the Inca Trail. With high snowy mountains, lowland and a visit to the archaeological site of Llactapata the walk offers a perfect blend of hiking, culture and nature.

With fewer people in the path of Salkantay Trek allows you to enjoy the natural beauty of the Andes without any of the distractions and disruptions that you find on the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu.

Day 1: Cusco – Soraypampa – Humantay Lagoon

Early departure from Cusco (4:30–5:00 a.m.).

3 hour walk to Soraypampa (3,900 m).

Additional hike to Humantay Lagoon (4,220 m).

Hot dinner and night in camp with a view of the Andes.

Day 2: Soraypampa – Abra Salkantay – Collpapampa

Ascent to Abra Salkantay (4,650 m) – the highest point of the trek.

Stunning views of glaciers and snowy peaks.

Prolonged descent through Wayracmachay (lunch).

Overnight in eco-domes in Collpapampa (2,900 m).

Day 3: Collpapampa – Lucmabamba (Cloud Forest + Coffee)

Hike through the high jungle: waterfalls, tropical fruits, orchids.

Visit to a coffee farm with tasting.

Overnight in jungle domes. Option to visit the Cocalmayo hot springs (extra).

Day 4: Lucmabamba – Llactapata – Hidroeléctrica – Aguas Calientes

Climb Llactapata (2,800 m) – first view of Machu Picchu.

Lunch near Hidroeléctrica.

Optional hike (3 hours) or train ride to Aguas Calientes.

Hotel + dinner at a local restaurant.

Day 5: Machu Picchu – Cusco

Climb to Machu Picchu (on foot or by bus).

2.5-hour guided tour of the citadel.

Return by train to Ollantaytambo and transfer to Cusco.

DETAILED TOUR ITINERARY:

Full Itinerary of the Salkantay Trek 5 Days / 4 Nights to Machu Picchu

The Best Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu : Experience one of the most epic hikes in South America :

Discover, day by day, how this unforgettable trekking adventure unfolds through the Peruvian Andes, culminating at the majestic Inca citadel of Machu Picchu. salkatay trek 4 days

Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu – Unforgettable Journey, Top Service & Honest Prices

Dreaming of hiking to Machu Picchu? The Salkantay Trek 5 Days is widely regarded as one of the most rewarding and scenic alternative routes to reach the ancient Incan citadel—perfect for travelers looking for a combination of adventure, cultural immersion, and natural beauty.

Unlike the crowded classic Inca Trail, the Salkantay Trek offers a more diverse and off-the-beaten-path experience. It’s no wonder this route is ranked among the top trekking adventures in South America.

Why Choose the Salkantay Trek?
Unmatched Natural Beauty : From snow-capped peaks to lush tropical forests, every step of the Salkantay Trek reveals a new landscape. Your journey begins with a visit to the stunning Humantay Lagoon, a glacial lake nestled beneath towering Andean peaks—an ideal photo stop and spiritual moment all in one. sacred valley trips

Conquer the Salkantay Pass

At over 4,600 meters (15,000 feet), the Salkantay Pass is a challenge that rewards you with panoramic views of rugged mountains and the sacred Salkantay glacier. This is the heart of the trek and a proud achievement for every adventurer.

Cozy Accommodations with a View

Forget uncomfortable camping. On this trek, you’ll stay in rustic Andean cabins and eco-lodges designed to keep you warm and comfortable, all while offering unobstructed views of starry skies and dramatic landscapes. It’s the kind of experience you imagined as a child, and now it’s real.

Day 1: The Best Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu Cusco – Mollepata – Challacancha – Soraypampa – Humantay Lake

Hiking distance: approx. 7 km / 4.3 miles
Maximum altitude: 4,220 m / 13,845 ft (Humantay Lake)
Difficulty level: Moderate

Your journey begins early in the morning: between 4:30 and 5:00 a.m., we’ll pick you up from your accommodation in Cusco to start this epic trek.

After a scenic 2-hour drive, we’ll stop in the picturesque town of Mollepata, where you’ll enjoy a hearty breakfast with stunning views of the Andes.

From there, we head to the trailhead at Challacancha (3,800 m / 12,467 ft). We begin with a light 3-hour hike to

our first campsite at Soraypampa (3,900 m / 12,795 ft), where a well-deserved lunch awaits, prepared by our local chef.

In the afternoon, we’ll take a 1.5-hour acclimatization hike to the stunning Humantay Lake, located at 4,220 m (13,845 ft). Its turquoise waters and the dramatic glacier backdrop of Mount Humantay make it one of the most

photogenic spots of the trek. Your guide will share fascinating stories about Andean cosmology, the Apus (mountain spirits), and the spiritual significance of this sacred place.

After exploring and soaking in the magic of this place, we return to camp to enjoy a hot coca tea followed by a delicious dinner under the stars. rainbow mountains

Day 2:The Best Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu Soraypampa – Salkantay Pass – Wayracmachay – Collpapampa

Hiking distance: 22 km / 13.7 miles
Maximum altitude: 4,650 m / 15,255 ft (Salkantay Pass)
Difficulty level: High

This is the most challenging day of the trek — but also the most rewarding! We start early with a revitalizing breakfast, then begin a 3-hour ascent to the highest point of the entire route: the Salkantay Pass (4,650 m / 15,255 ft).

From here, you’ll witness unforgettable views of the snow-capped peaks of Salkantay, Humantay, Tucarhuay, and Pumasillo.

The landscape is otherworldly: glaciers, steep cliffs, and vast open skies surround you as you traverse one of the most iconic passes in the Andes.

After a rest to soak in the views and take photos, we begin a long descent of about 6 hours, passing by

Wayracmachay (where we’ll have lunch), until we reach our second campsite in Collpapampa (2,900 m / 9,514 ft). The climate becomes warmer here, and the scenery shifts from high mountains to lush cloud forest.

In the afternoon, we’ll share a hot tea and a delicious dinner, resting in our comfortable eco-domes nestled in the Andean forest.

Day 3: The Best Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu Collpapampa – High Jungle – Lucmabamba (Coffee Tour)

Hiking distance: 14 km / 8.7 miles
Maximum altitude: 2,050 m / 6,725 ft
Difficulty level: Moderate

Today you’ll enter the heart of the Peruvian high jungle. After a nutritious breakfast, we’ll hike for about 5.5 hours along trails that wind through waterfalls, tropical fruit plantations, banana and coffee trees, wild orchids, and dense vegetation.

The ecosystem change is dramatic: we leave the cold Andes behind and enter a tropical environment filled with vibrant aromas, colors, and sounds.

We’ll visit a local coffee farm, where you’ll learn about the artisanal coffee-making process — from plant to cup (with tasting included!).

Tonight, we’ll stay in jungle domes surrounded by nature. Optionally, you can visit the Cocalmayo hot springs in

Santa Teresa (not included in the package). After returning, we’ll enjoy tea and a traditional Andean dinner.

Day 4:The Best Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu Lucmabamba – Llactapata – Hydroelectric – Aguas Calientes

Hiking distance: 18 km / 11 miles
Maximum altitude: 2,800 m / 9,186 ft (Llactapata)
Difficulty level: Moderate

After breakfast, we begin an ascent along an original section of the Inca Trail — a route rich in history and

breathtaking landscapes. After a 2.5-hour uphill hike, we arrive at the Llactapata archaeological site, where, weather permitting, you’ll catch your first panoramic view of Machu Picchu and Huayna Picchu.

We then descend for lunch near the Hydroelectric station. From here, you have two options:

Hike 3 hours along the train tracks to Aguas Calientes (included), or
Take the train for an additional $38 USD (optional).

Upon arrival in Aguas Calientes, we’ll check into a hotel and enjoy dinner at a local restaurant. It’s the perfect

moment to relax and prepare for the big day. Amazon Tours Peru

Day 5: Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu – Cusco

Hiking distance: 6 km / 3.7 miles (ascent to Machu Picchu)
Maximum altitude: 2,430 m / 7,972 ft (Machu Picchu citadel)
Difficulty level: Moderate

The big day has arrived! We wake up very early (4:30 a.m.) to begin the hike to Machu Picchu, the crown jewel of the Andes. tour adventure amazon

After picking up your box lunch, we hike for about 1.5 hours (or take the bus for $12 USD) to the entrance of the archaeological site.

Upon arrival, your guide will lead you to the best viewpoint to capture the classic sunrise photo of Machu Picchu.

Then, enjoy a 2.5-hour guided tour, exploring the temples, terraces, ceremonial enclosures, and water channels of this World Wonder.

Optional hikes (advance booking required):
Huayna Picchu Mountain: 2 hours ($60 USD)
Machu Picchu Mountain: 3 hours ($60 USD)

After the tour, you’ll descend to Aguas Calientes, where you’ll take the train or transport back to Cusco, depending

on your package. You’ll arrive in Cusco around 8:00 p.m., your heart full of unforgettable memories.

What’s Included in the Itinerary?

Certified local guide (English/Spanish)
Transportation from and to Cusco
All meals during the trek
Entry tickets to Machu Picchu
Eco-friendly campsites and domes
Hotel in Aguas Calientes
Guided tour of Machu Picchu

Salkantay Trek 5-Day Itinerary

Hike to Machu Picchu via Salkantay
Humantay Lake + Salkantay Tour
5-Day Trekking in Peru
Step-by-step Salkantay Trek
Visit Llactapata and Machu Picchu

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WHAT TOUR SERVICES:

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A bilingual professional guide is available for groups of more than 9 people.
Porters to carry cooking and camping equipment are also available.
Mules (7 kg) for the Salkantay trek to Machu Picchu.
Hotel pickup and drop-off. Bus to Mollepata to begin the trek, and train and bus to return to Cusco at the end.
Boiled water (excluding the first 4 hours of the Salkantay trek, when you must bring your own bottle).
4 breakfasts, 4 lunches, 4 dinners, and 4 lunches. If you have any dietary requirements, such as vegetarianism, please let us know.
Dining tent with tables and chairs.
One tent attendant for every 2 hikers.
Hotel.
Sleeping matress.
Oxygen bottle.
First aid kit.
Admission to Machu Picchu.
Return bus from Machu Picchu to Aguas Calientes

WHAT TOUR SERVICES:

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Breakfast on day 1 and lunch and dinner on day 5
Entrance fee to Huayna Picchu and Machu Picchu
Tipping – It is customary (but not mandatory) to tip your porters and chef at the end of the trek
Guide – personal preference
Insurance – It is strongly recommended that you purchase insurance before your trip.

Optional extras on the Salkantay trek to Machu Picchu:

Sleeping bag $30 per trip
Walking stick $20 per trip
Inflatable mattress $30 per trip
Tent single supplement $35
Mule to carry extra personal items up to 7 kg US$70 for the Salkantay trek
Huayna Picchu entrance fee US$20

ABOUT LODGE:

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Frequently asked questions (FAQs):

The Other Inca Trail: The Secret Route to Machu Picchu

Machu Picchu, the hidden gem of the Andes, remains one of the world’s most iconic and visited destinations. However, for those seeking more than just a traditional experience and wishing to explore an alternative Inca Trail, there is a lesser-known but equally impressive route that offers a unique perspective on the sacred city from a less-traveled corner: the Other Inca Trail.

What is the Other Inca Trail?

Unlike the traditional Classic Inca Trail, which is famous for its 4-day route connecting the Sacred Valley with Machu Picchu, the Other Inca Trail is a more peaceful and less crowded experience. This less-traveled route allows travelers to hike ancient trails with fewer tourists, enjoy more direct contact with nature, and explore the rich Inca history in a more intimate way.

A Close Encounter with Andean Culture

The Andean cultural tradition in Peru is not only found in its monuments, but also in its natural surroundings. The Apus, the sacred mountains surrounding Machu Picchu, are considered the spiritual guardians of the region, and the spirits of nature manifest in every corner of the landscape. Here, travelers are immersed not only in the beauty of the landscapes but also in a deep connection with the energy of the earth and the spirit of the Andes.

The Ascent to Machu Picchu: A Spiritual Experience

Imagine walking the route that unfolds toward Machu Picchu, with spectacular views of the Andes, breathing in the fresh, clean air of the high altitudes. The altitude (4,650 meters above sea level) is a challenge, but every step is a reward. Upon reaching the highest pass on the trail, the panoramic view of Machu Picchu appears on the horizon, revealing itself in all its splendor, perhaps from an angle few travelers know: the southwest corner of the citadel.

This is a place where time seems to stand still. The silence of the Andes, interrupted only by the whisper of the wind and the song of the condors, is the perfect backdrop for reflecting on the history of the ancient Incas who once walked these same paths.

A Luxury Adventure: Tranquility and Comfort

While the Classic Inca Trail may require rustic camping and heavy backpacks, the Other Inca Trail offers a more comfortable experience. Travelers can enjoy luxurious accommodations surrounded by nature, with soft beds, goose-down duvets, and exquisite Andean cuisine that allows you to taste traditional dishes such as quinoa, guinea pig, and potatoes native to the region.

During the day, travelers can relax and enjoy the natural beauty, while the evenings offer restful sleep in a serene environment away from the hustle and bustle of tourists.

Traveler Tips: Preparing for the Other Inca Trail

If you’re considering embarking on the Other Inca Trail, here are some helpful tips:

Acclimatization: Since the route reaches high altitudes, it’s essential to acclimatize before beginning the trek to avoid altitude sickness. Spend at least a couple of days resting in Cusco or the Sacred Valley.
Expert Guides: To get the most out of this experience, it’s advisable to hire a local guide who not only knows the route but can also teach you about Inca history and culture.
Pack Light but Appropriate: Although the trek is less demanding than the Classic Inca Trail, you’ll still need to be prepared for fluctuating temperatures and variable terrain. Bring comfortable clothing, sunscreen, and plenty of water.

Why Choose the Other Inca Trail?

While many travelers opt for the Classic Inca Trail due to its popularity, the Other Inca Trail offers a more personalized and in-depth experience. Here, you can experience the magic of the Andes without the crowds, exploring spectacular landscapes, admiring sacred mountains, and discovering secrets of the ancient Inca civilization.

Furthermore, by choosing this lesser-known route, you will contribute to sustainable tourism, helping to preserve the ecosystems and local communities that live around the ancient paths.

Conclusion The Best Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu .

The Other Inca Trail is not only a physical adventure but also a spiritual experience that connects you with the land, history, and culture of the Andes. If you’re looking for a peaceful alternative steeped in history, this is the route you should take to reach Machu Picchu.

The Best Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu 5 days

Alternative Inca Trail
Lesser-known routes to Machu Picchu
Trip to Machu Picchu
Sustainable Tourism in Peru
Adventure in the Andes
Hiking in Machu Picchu
Acclimatization in Machu Picchu
Secret Inca Trail

PRICE FROM

S/. /pax

CODE: CUS-01

5 days y 4 night

Places to visit:

Tour Group:

02 Min - 08 Max

Tour Type:

Trek , Machupicchu trekking , Adventure , Ecological , Higking

Tour Physical Level:

1/5

¿WHAT WE EXPECT?

The Best Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu 5 days

The Best Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu 5 days

First Glimpse of Machu Picchu from Llactapata

Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu 5 days:

Day 1: Cusco – Soraypampa – Humantay Lagoon

Day 2: Soraypampa – Abra Salkantay – Collpapampa

Day 3: Collpapampa – Lucmabamba (Cloud Forest + Coffee)

Day 4: Lucmabamba – Llactapata – Hidroeléctrica – Aguas Calientes

Day 5: Machu Picchu – Cusco

DETAILED TOUR ITINERARY:

Full Itinerary of the Salkantay Trek 5 Days / 4 Nights to Machu Picchu

Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu – Unforgettable Journey, Top Service & Honest Prices

Conquer the Salkantay Pass

Day 1: The Best Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu Cusco – Mollepata – Challacancha – Soraypampa – Humantay Lake

Day 2:The Best Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu Soraypampa – Salkantay Pass – Wayracmachay – Collpapampa

Day 3: The Best Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu Collpapampa – High Jungle – Lucmabamba (Coffee Tour)

Day 4:The Best Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu Lucmabamba – Llactapata – Hydroelectric – Aguas Calientes

Day 5: Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu – Cusco

What’s Included in the Itinerary?

Salkantay Trek 5-Day Itinerary

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WHAT TOUR SERVICES:

Incluye en el Tour Salkantay Trekking Machupicchu

WHAT TOUR SERVICES:

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Optional extras on the Salkantay trek to Machu Picchu:

ABOUT LODGE:

Not Incluye en el Tour Salkantay Trekking Machupicchu

Frequently asked questions (FAQs):

The Other Inca Trail: The Secret Route to Machu Picchu

What is the Other Inca Trail?

A Close Encounter with Andean Culture

The Ascent to Machu Picchu: A Spiritual Experience

A Luxury Adventure: Tranquility and Comfort

Traveler Tips: Preparing for the Other Inca Trail

Why Choose the Other Inca Trail?

Conclusion The Best Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu .

The Best Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu 5 days

PRICE FROM

S/. /pax

CODE: CUS-01

5 days y 4 night

Places to visit:

Tour Group:

Tour Type:

Tour Physical Level:

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Full Itinerary Salkantay Trek 4 days

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