Salkantay Trail
The Complete 5-Day Trek
Master the high-altitude pass and the lush cloud forest. Our detailed guide covers everything from Humantay Lake to the final ascent of Machu Picchu.
Salkantay Trek 5 Days Itinerary | Full Route Guide
If you are looking for adventures and challenges, the traditional Salkantay trekking (Availability all year round) is for you. You will reach 15,000 feet in height at its highest point, and this tour is unknown to most non-adventure tourists, so you can enjoy the incredible panoramic views of turquoise waters and white snow caps without a crowd of people. around you.
Day 1: Cusco – Mollepata – Soraypampa – Humantay Lake
The journey begins early in Cusco with a scenic drive toward Mollepata and then to Soraypampa, where the trekking officially starts. This first day is focused on gradual acclimatization and initial adaptation to the high-altitude environment, allowing trekkers to ease into the route. One of the main highlights is the hike to Humantay Lake, a glacial lagoon known for its intense turquoise color and dramatic mountain backdrop. The trail to the lake involves a moderate ascent, offering a preview of the physical demands ahead. After exploring the area, trekkers return to the campsite in Soraypampa, where temperatures can drop significantly at night. This stage sets the foundation for the trek, combining manageable effort with impressive scenery.
Day 2: Soraypampa – Salkantay Pass – Chaullay
The second day is the most challenging and physically demanding part of the entire trek, as it includes the ascent to the Salkantay Pass at over 4,600 meters above sea level. The climb requires endurance and proper pacing due to the altitude and steep terrain. At the summit, trekkers are rewarded with panoramic views of the Salkantay Mountain and surrounding glaciers, creating one of the most memorable moments of the journey. After reaching the pass, the route descends toward Chaullay, where the landscape begins to shift from cold alpine conditions to warmer, greener environments. This dramatic change in scenery highlights the ecological diversity of the trek and marks a transition into the cloud forest region.
Day 3: Chaullay – Collpapampa – La Playa - Lucmabamba
On the third day, the trek continues through the cloud forest, offering a completely different environment compared to the previous high-altitude sections. The trail passes through lush vegetation, waterfalls, and small rural communities where agriculture is part of daily life. Areas such as Collpapampa and La Playa are known for coffee plantations and tropical crops, providing insight into local culture. The terrain is less demanding, with gradual descents and flatter sections that allow trekkers to recover physically while still covering distance. This stage emphasizes the natural richness of the region and introduces a more relaxed rhythm to the journey.
Day 4: Lucmabamba – Llactapata – Hydroelectric – Night in Aguas Calientes (Basic Category – Hatun Wasi or Similar)
The fourth day involves a combination of trekking and optional transportation, depending on the itinerary and operator. Many routes include a hike or short transfer to Hidroelectrica, followed by a walk along the railway tracks leading to Aguas Calientes. This section is relatively flat and allows trekkers to enjoy the surrounding jungle environment at a comfortable pace. The path follows the Urubamba River and offers a calm transition toward the final destination. Upon arrival in Aguas Calientes, travelers check into a hotel, rest, and prepare for the visit to Machu Picchu the following day. This stage bridges the trekking experience with the cultural highlight ahead.
Day 5: Aguas Calientes - Machu Picchu - Hydroelectric - Cusco
The final day begins early with a transfer or hike up to Machu Picchu, where a guided tour provides detailed insight into the history, architecture, and significance of the Inca citadel. The visit typically lasts between 2 and 3 hours, after which travelers may explore additional areas or take optional hikes such as Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain, depending on ticket availability. After the visit, the return journey begins, usually involving a train ride to Ollantaytambo followed by transportation back to Cusco. This final stage completes the trek with a cultural experience that connects the entire journey.
- Return by BUS (via Hydroelectric): It is essential to book in advance. We manage your entry exclusively between 7:00 a.m. and 9:00 a.m., as these are the only time slots that guarantee compliance with the itinerary and arrival at the return transport without setbacks.
- Return by TRAIN: If you choose this option, there are no strict time restrictions for your entrance to Machu Picchu.
Included
- Informative talk prior to departure
- Experienced tour guide
- First aid box
- 24/7 customer support
- Tourist transport
- Pick up service
- Entrance ticket to Machu Picchu
- 4 Breakfasts, 4 Lunches and 4 Dinners (with vegetarian option)
- One night at the first class Seven Mapy hotel or similar (in Aguas Calientes)
- One night at home lodging with basic services
- One night in a hostel in Santa Teresa with private bathroom
- Grilled dinner in Aguas Calientes
- Tourist transportation Cusco – Abra Malaga and accompaniment to Santa Maria.
- Personal tents for two people
- Inflatable mattresses
- Hot drinks at night and with each meal
- Horses (or mules) to carry luggage of 6 kilos per person
- First night in Domo
- RETURN BY BUS: Return by bus from Hidroeléctrica to Cusco (approximately 6 hours) arrival point near your hotel
- Group: 19 passengers
Not included
- Personal expenses
- Up/down buses (Consettur)
- Tips
- Additional costs
- Entrance ticket to the hot springs in Aguas Calientes(15 Peruvian soles)
- Air tickets
- Entrance ticket to Huayna Picchu (USD 25.00 if purchased with our agency)
- Breakfast on the first day and lunch on the last day
- Sleeping bag
- Canes
- Personal expenses
- RETURN BY TRAIN: Return by train from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo(approximately 2 hours) and pick up at the train station and transfer to Cusco, arrival point near your hotel