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Salkantay Trek 5 Days to Machu Picchu

Salkantay Trek 5 Days Overview

The Salkantay Trek 5 Days to Machu Picchu is one of the most scenic and rewarding trekking routes in Peru. This experience takes you through a dramatic transition of landscapes, from high Andean mountains to lush cloud forests, ending at the iconic Machu Picchu.

Unlike the Inca Trail, this route does not require special permits and offers a more adventurous and less crowded alternative. Along the way, you will visit breathtaking locations such as Humantay Lake, cross the impressive Salkantay Pass, and explore remote valleys surrounded by nature.

With a maximum altitude of around 4,650 meters, this trek is ideal for travelers seeking a challenge combined with unforgettable views and cultural experiences.

★ Lares Trip Talk to a local expert

Duration 5 Days

Group size 4 to 10 travelers

Style Grupal

Theme Trekking

Physical rating

From USD $520

This tour is available subject to permits and availability.

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Humantay Lake, a stunning turquoise glacier lake

Salkantay Pass, the highest point of the trek

Views of the Salkantay Mountain

Transition from mountains to jungle landscapes

Visit to Llactapata with a unique view of Machu Picchu

Guided tour of Machu Picchu

Start: Cusco

Duration: 5 Days

Difficulty: Challenging

Distance: 40-45 km / 26 -28 mi

Max Altitude: 4250msnm

End: Cusco

View Itinerary

Included

Tourist transportation from Cusco to the starting point of the trek in comfortable and safe vehicles.
Professional bilingual guide (Spanish/English) with extensive experience in high-altitude trekking and knowledge of local culture and history.
Meals during the trek prepared by our trekking chef, including breakfast, lunch, and dinner, with vegetarian and special dietary options available upon request.
Camping equipment such as tents, sleeping mats, dining tent, kitchen tent, and basic facilities to ensure a comfortable experience in remote areas.
Accommodation in Aguas Calientes on the last night in a comfortable hotel with private facilities.
Entrance ticket to Machu Picchu with guided tour included.
Return train ticket from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo, followed by tourist transport back to Cusco.
Bus ticket from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu (round trip or one way depending on itinerary coordination).
First aid kit and oxygen tank carried by the guide for safety throughout the trek.
24/7 assistance before and during the tour for any coordination or support needed.
Sleeping bag (available for rent if needed).
Trekking poles (optional and available for rent).
Entrance fee to Humantay Lake if required by local authorities.
Lunch on the last day after visiting Machu Picchu.
Tips for guides, cooks, and trekking staff (optional but appreciated).
Travel insurance (highly recommended).
Additional personal expenses such as snacks, drinks, or souvenirs.

Not included

Warm clothing for cold nights, including thermal layers, gloves, and a hat.
Waterproof jacket or poncho, especially during the rainy season.
Comfortable and waterproof hiking boots with good grip.
Small backpack for daily essentials during the trek.
Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat for sun protection at high altitude.
Reusable water bottle or hydration system to stay hydrated.
Headlamp or flashlight for early mornings and nights at camp.
Personal hygiene items and a small towel.
Insect repellent for lower altitude and jungle areas.
Snacks such as energy bars, nuts, or chocolate.
Original passport (mandatory for Machu Picchu entry and train boarding).
Cash in Peruvian soles for small purchases along the route.

Which campsites are used during the Salkantay Trek 5 Days?

The trek includes overnight stays in Soraypampa, Chaullay, and Lucmabamba. The final night is spent in a hotel in Aguas Calientes to ensure proper rest before visiting Machu Picchu.

Is the Humantay Lake visit included on Day 1?

Yes, the hike to Humantay Lake is included on the first day. It is done in the afternoon as part of the acclimatization process.

What type of accommodation is provided during the trek?

You will stay in fully equipped campsites during the trek with tents and sleeping mats provided. On the last night, accommodation is in a comfortable hotel in Aguas Calientes with private facilities.

Are horses or mules included to carry luggage?

Yes, pack animals are included to carry camping equipment and part of your personal belongings. You will only need to carry a small daypack with essentials.

Can I rent a horse if I feel tired during the trek?

Yes, horses can be rented locally, especially on the most demanding sections such as the ascent to the Salkantay Pass. This can be arranged directly with your guide.

What circuit of Machu Picchu is included in this tour?

The Machu Picchu circuit is assigned according to official availability by the Ministry of Culture. We always secure the best available option to ensure a complete experience.

What time do we arrive back in Cusco on the last day?

Arrival time in Cusco is usually between 8:00 pm and 10:00 pm, depending on train schedules and traffic conditions.

Is there mobile signal or WiFi during the trek?

There is no signal during most parts of the trek. Limited signal may be available in some areas like Lucmabamba or Aguas Calientes.

How early do we visit Machu Picchu on Day 5?

The visit to Machu Picchu is scheduled early in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy the best views, depending on your assigned entry time.

Can I upgrade the train service?

Yes, you can upgrade to premium train services such as Vistadome for a more comfortable return journey.

Do you provide vegetarian or special meals?

Yes, vegetarian, vegan, and other dietary requirements can be accommodated. Please inform us in advance.

Itinerary

Cusco – Mollepata – Soraypampa – Humantay Lake

Start

Pickup Point

View pickup details

Soraypampa – Salkantay Pass – Huayracmachay – Chaullay

Chaullay – Collpapampa – La Playa – Lucmabamba

Lucmabamba – Llactapata – Hidroelectrica – Aguas Calientes

Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu – Cusco

End

End of the tour

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From USD $520 per person

Salkantay Trek 5 Days to Machu Picchu

Salkantay Trek 5 Days Overview

Inclusions

Included

Not included

Packing List

Frequently Asked Questions

Which campsites are used during the Salkantay Trek 5 Days?

Is the Humantay Lake visit included on Day 1?

What type of accommodation is provided during the trek?

Are horses or mules included to carry luggage?

Can I rent a horse if I feel tired during the trek?

What circuit of Machu Picchu is included in this tour?

What time do we arrive back in Cusco on the last day?

Is there mobile signal or WiFi during the trek?

How early do we visit Machu Picchu on Day 5?

Can I upgrade the train service?

Do you provide vegetarian or special meals?

Itinerary

Cusco – Mollepata – Soraypampa – Humantay Lake

Cusco

Mollepata

Soraypampa

Humantay Lake

Soraypampa – Salkantay Pass – Huayracmachay – Chaullay

Soraypampa

Salkantay Pass

Huayracmachay

Chaullay

Chaullay – Collpapampa – La Playa – Lucmabamba

Chaullay

Collpapampa

La Playa

Lucmabamba

Lucmabamba – Llactapata – Hidroelectrica – Aguas Calientes

Lucmabamba

Llactapata

Hidroelectrica

Aguas Calientes

Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu – Cusco

Aguas Calientes

Machu Picchu

Cusco

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