5 Day – Salkantay Trek

The 5-Day Salkantay Trek: An In-Depth Journey Through Peru’s Heartland

When we think of Peru, images of Machu Picchu and the Inca Trail often come to mind. But for those seeking a more adventurous route that’s equally scenic, culturally rich, and a little less crowded, the Salkantay Trek offers an unforgettable alternative. Priced at $370 per person, this 5-day journey takes you through rugged mountain landscapes, lush forests, and remote villages, culminating at the legendary Machu Picchu. Starting from Mollepata, 100 km from Cusco, the trek covers about 74 km (46 miles), with highlights like Humantay Lake, the Salkantay Pass, and hot springs, plus a visit to the Inca citadel.

Two things truly resonate with us: first, the expert guidance—the reviews consistently praise guides like Ricardo and Edwin for their knowledge, flexibility, and friendly attitude, making the journey feel both safe and personal. Second, the stunning scenery—from high mountain passes to waterfalls and orchids in the forest, the views are spectacular and diverse. The inclusion of delicious meals at key points adds comfort to the rugged experience.

That said, a consideration worth noting is the physical demands. While the trek is suitable for those with moderate fitness, it involves hiking at high altitudes and some long days. Also, the trek involves camping and some optional activities like zip-lining, which may not appeal to everyone. This tour suits active travelers who want an authentic, scenic, and culturally immersive experience but are prepared for the physical effort.

If you love stunning mountain scenery, historic sites, and want a less touristy alternative to the classic Inca Trail, this trek is a fantastic choice. It’s especially well-suited for adventure seekers who appreciate good organization, knowledgeable guides, and a mix of hiking and cultural discovery.

Key Points

• Authentic experience with a focus on natural beauty and cultural sites
• Excellent guides praised for their knowledge and flexibility
• Varied landscapes including mountain passes, waterfalls, and forests
• Comfortable camping gear provided, with options like zip-lining for adventure lovers
• Value for money considering included meals, guides, transport, and Machu Picchu entry
• Moderate physical challenge suitable for active travelers with some hiking experience

The Complete 5-Day Salkantay Trek Experience

The Starting Point: A High-Altitude Adventure Begins

The journey kicks off early, with a pick-up from your Cusco hotel at 4:30 a.m.. From there, you’ll travel through quaint villages like Izcuchaca and Limatambo before reaching Mollepata, where breakfast awaits. After fueling up, the bus continues to Challacancha, the start of your hike.

What we love here is the careful planning—early mornings and scenic drives set a tone of anticipation. You’ll find the first real taste of Peru’s mountain wilderness as you trek to Soraypampa (3900m), where you camp overnight. The highlight of day one: a walk up to Humantay Lake, at 4220 meters—a jaw-dropping spot with emerald waters and panoramic views. The six-hour hike, with a short exercise break, helps your body acclimate to the altitude, which is key to enjoying the rest of the trek.

Day 2: Scaling the Salkantay Pass

Day two is the most physically demanding but also the most rewarding. After breakfast, you’ll push towards the Salkantay Pass (4650 meters), the highest point of the trek. The ascent offers vistas of Mount Salkantay and the surrounding peaks—imagine the grandeur of snow-capped mountains stretching in every direction.

The descent into Huayracmachay for lunch introduces you to lush valleys and forest. Along the way, you might spot vibrant orchids and a large waterfall. The trail descends into a high-altitude forest, making the environment more lush and inviting. The day ends at Chaullay, where a warm dinner awaits. The guide reviews the day’s adventure, and the sense of accomplishment grows with every step.

Day 3: Descending into the Heart of the Jungle

This day is a gentler descent—around six hours—through varying landscapes. You leave the high mountains behind and enter the Coca and avocado plantations, providing a glimpse of local life and Inca agriculture. The air feels warmer, and the scenery more vibrant.

A noteworthy highlight is the visit to Cocalmayo thermal baths in the afternoon. These hot springs are a welcome relief after days of hiking and are praised in reviews as a must-do stop for relaxing muscles and enjoying natural surroundings. Travelers frequently comment on the delicious local food and the chance to rest before heading to Santa Teresa for the night.

Day 4: Adventures Before Machu Picchu

Day four offers options—hike from Santa Teresa to the hydroelectric station, take local transport, or add excitement with zip-lining across the landscape. Many reviews rave about the zip-line experience, with cables ranging from 300 to 500 meters—an exhilarating way to cap off your trek.

After the optional activities, you’ll travel to the hydroelectric station for lunch. The final stretch is a scenic walk to Aguas Calientes, passing orchids and enjoying the lush environment. The guide offers a briefing about Machu Picchu, preparing you for the next day’s early start.

Day 5: The Grand Finale at Machu Picchu

The highlight: early morning walk or bus up to Machu Picchu. We loved the quiet early mornings, where you can soak in the majesty of the ruins before the crowds arrive. The guided tour lasts about two hours, highlighting key Inca structures like the Sun Gate and Inca Bridge.

You’ll have free time to explore further or simply enjoy the views. Afterward, descend on foot or by bus to Aguas Calientes, where your train awaits to take you back to Ollantaytambo and finally to Cusco. The entire day beautifully combines history, scenery, and the thrill of achievement.

What’s Included and What’s Not

This tour offers excellent value with meals, guided tours, camping equipment, and entrance tickets to Machu Picchu included. The horse transport for bags keeps the physical strain manageable, a thoughtful touch praised in reviews. The return train from Aguas Calientes in expedition class is also part of the package, making logistics straightforward.

However, some extras like bottled water, snacks, and optional activities (zip-lining, hot springs, Huayna Picchu entrance) are not included, so pack accordingly. Also, your sleeping bag is not provided, which is worth considering if you’re packing light.

The Guides

Multiple reviewers sing praises for guides such as Ricardo and Edwin, calling them knowledgeable, friendly, and flexible. Their insights and personal touch make the trek more meaningful, especially when navigating high altitudes or tricky terrain. This is a major plus if you want an authentic experience backed by professionalism.

The Logistics and Organization

Travelers highlight the well-organized nature of this tour. From the briefing the night before to the punctual pickups and clear instructions, everything runs smoothly. The group size max of 15 ensures personalized attention without feeling crowded.

The Quality of Food and Accommodation

While camping is part of the adventure, the included meals—breakfasts, lunches, dinners—are generally well-received, with reviewers emphasizing their deliciousness and nutritional value. The overnight stay in Aguas Calientes provides a comfortable base before visiting Machu Picchu.

Who Will Love This Trek?

This tour is ideal for active, adventurous travelers who want to experience Peru’s natural beauty and Inca culture without the strict schedule of the classic Inca Trail. If you’re comfortable with moderate hiking at altitude, and enjoy scenic variety and cultural insights, you’ll find this trek rewarding.

It’s especially suitable for those who appreciate professional guides who can enhance their understanding of the landscape and Inca site visits. Families with older children or teenagers with some hiking experience have found it family-friendly, but younger kids or those with mobility issues may want to consider their stamina.

Final Thoughts

The Salkantay Trek offers a balanced mix of challenging hikes, stunning scenery, culture, and comfort. For around $370, travelers receive guided support, meals, camping gear, and an unforgettable journey into Peru’s wild side. The growth in reviews praising the guides’ professionalism and the sights’ beauty speaks to its value for those seeking an authentic adventure.

While it’s a physically demanding route, the diverse landscapes and the chance to see orchids, waterfalls, high mountain passes, and hot springs make every effort worthwhile. As many reviewers highlight, the guides’ knowledge and friendliness truly elevate the experience, making it more than just a hike.

In the end, this trek is best suited for adventurers who want to combine physical activity with cultural discovery and don’t mind a bit of rugged camping. If you’re craving a more personalized, less crowded route to Machu Picchu, the Salkantay Trek should be at the top of your list.

FAQ

What is the starting point of the trek?
You’ll be picked up from your Cusco hotel early in the morning and driven to Challacancha, where the hike begins.

How long is each hiking day?
Day 1 involves about six hours of hiking, Day 2 approximately seven hours, Day 3 around six hours, Day 4 varies depending on options chosen, and Day 5 includes the early walk up to Machu Picchu.

Are meals included during the trek?
Yes, the tour offers four breakfasts, four lunches, and four dinners, which are highly praised for their quality and variety.

Is camping gear provided?
Yes, tents and sleeping mats are included, making for a comfortable camping experience amid stunning scenery.

Are there optional activities?
Yes, zip-lining is available on Day 4, with cables ranging from 300 to 500 meters, offering an adrenaline rush before visiting Machu Picchu.

What about transportation from Machu Picchu back to Cusco?
The tour includes a train ticket from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo and bus transfer back to Cusco, simplifying logistics.

Is the tour suitable for children?
While many reviews mention family-friendly experiences, travelers should consider their children’s hiking ability and altitude tolerance.

What equipment do I need to bring?
A good pair of hiking shoes, warm clothing for high altitudes, a hat, sunscreen, insect repellent, and personal essentials. A sleeping bag is recommended but not supplied.

Can I cancel the tour easily?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the start, with a full refund.

Will I see Machu Picchu?
Absolutely. The tour culminates with a guided visit to Machu Picchu, with options to explore further on your own.

To sum it up, the 5-day Salkantay Trek offers a comprehensive blend of adventure, natural beauty, and cultural discovery at a very reasonable price. With expert guides, varied landscapes, and the thrill of reaching Machu Picchu, it’s perfect for travelers seeking a genuine, active experience in Peru. Just be ready for some high-altitude hiking, and you’ll return with stories worth telling for a lifetime.