5-Day Salkantay Trek Machu Picchu

Discover the 5-Day Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu

Imagine trekking through remote Andean landscapes, surrounded by snow-capped peaks, lush cloud forests, and vibrant rivers, all culminating in a sunrise visit to Machu Picchu. This 5-day Salkantay Trek, offered at $420 per person, is perfect for those craving a more authentic, less crowded adventure than the classic Inca Trail.

From the moment we’re picked up early in Cusco until we step onto the terraces of Machu Picchu, the experience promises a mix of natural beauty, physical challenge, and cultural richness. The guides are praised for their knowledge and friendliness, and the scenery is genuinely spectacular—especially the towering Salkantay Mountain and the Humantay Lagoon.

Two things we particularly appreciate: first, the opportunity to camp overnight in pristine locations, which really immerses you in the landscape; second, the chance to visit lesser-known ruins like Llactapata, offering a quieter, more contemplative side of Inca history.

A potential consideration is that this trek is quite demanding, with long hiking days of up to nine hours. It’s suited for travelers in good physical shape who enjoy strenuous outdoor activities. This tour is best for adventurous spirits who want more than just a day trip and are eager to experience the varied ecosystems of Peru’s highlands—and for those who appreciate skilled guides and authentic encounters.

Key Points

• Challenging but Rewarding: Designed for physically fit travelers who enjoy long, scenic hikes across diverse terrains.
• Authentic Experience: Camping in natural settings adds intimacy and a sense of wilderness.
• Spectacular Views: Witness snow-capped mountains, lush valleys, and archaeological sites along the way.
• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable guides like Manuel, described as professional and caring, enhance the experience.
• Inclusive Value: Price covers train tickets, most meals, camping gear, and Machu Picchu tickets (subject to availability).
• Limited Group Size: Max 15 travelers, allowing for personalized attention and camaraderie.

The Itinerary in Detail

Day 1: Cusco to Soraypampa and Humantay Lagoon

Your journey kicks off early at 5:00 am, with pickup from your Cusco hotel. The first stop is Mollepata, where you meet your guide and the group. After a brief breakfast (on your own), you head to Marqoq’ Asa, where you start your trek with views of two valleys. The highlight of the day is reaching Soraypampa for lunch, a well-deserved pause before the ascent to Humantay Lagoon.

This turquoise mountain lake at 4,220 meters offers stunning scenery. Many reviews highlight the beauty of Humantay Lagoon, with one traveler noting it as a “beautiful place.” The descent back to Soraypampa completes a 5-hour day full of anticipation for what’s to come.

Day 2: From Soraypampa to Salkantay Pass and Cloud Forest

Day two demands more effort, with a climb to the Salkantay Pass, the highest point of the trek, at nearly 4,600 meters. The early morning coca tea is a welcome comfort, and the trail takes you across some of the most dramatic landscapes—cloud forests, mountain views, and the imposing Salkantay Mountain.

Expect about 9 hours of walking, mostly uphill and downhill, with spectacular vistas and an invigorating sense of achievement. Reviewers rave about guides like Jimmy Perez, who make the hard parts more manageable with their friendly encouragement and expertise.

Day 3: Mountainous Paths and River Valleys

The third day introduces you to a landscape that shifts from rugged mountains to vibrant green valleys, dotted with wild strawberries, orchids, and coffee plantations. As you walk along tributaries of the Urubamba River, you’ll appreciate the lushness and biodiversity. The trail culminates in La Playa, where you camp for the night.

This section is less strenuous than Day 2 but still offers scenic variety and the chance to spot local wildlife. Many travelers mention the abundance of natural beauty and the enjoyable, varied scenery.

Day 4: From La Playa to Machu Picchu via Llactapata

Getting an early start is key today. You trek through Santa Teresa Valley, crossing bamboo and coffee forests, with a special highlight being the ruins of Patallacta. From there, you’ll catch your first glimpse of Machu Picchu from Llactapata, a more secluded Inca site that provides a peaceful context before your final ascent.

Descending through lush vegetation, you’ll reach Hydro, a bustling hub where you can relax briefly. The last stretch involves a two-hour descent into Aguas Calientes, where you’ll soak in the hot springs and prepare for the next day’s grand finale.

Day 5: The Iconic Machu Picchu

The early morning bus whisks you up to Machu Picchu, where you meet your guide for a 2-hour tour of the site’s highlights. Many reviews emphasize the importance of visiting with a guide—most mention Manuel’s professionalism and engaging style. After the tour, you have free time for photos and reflection before heading back to Aguas Calientes for lunch.

Your journey wraps up with a train ride back to Ollantaytambo and a bus transfer to Cusco. It’s a long day but packed with unforgettable views and cultural insights.

What Sets This Trek Apart

This Salkantay route is a fantastic alternative to the crowded Inca Trail. It offers a more rustic, less commercial experience—ideal if you want authentic landscapes and fewer travelers. Camping each night means you’ll sleep under the stars or inside tents that, based on reviews, could be upgraded for more comfort, but the experience of waking up in nature is priceless.

The guide team is consistently praised for their professionalism, local knowledge, and friendliness. Many reviews mention guides like Nasario and Manuel, emphasizing their caring attitude and passion for sharing Peru’s natural and cultural wealth. Their presence truly enhances the journey, especially on the longer, tougher days.

Transport and Logistics

Transportation is smooth, with pickup from Cusco, comfortable buses to the trailhead, and train tickets included in the package. The tour keeps logistics straightforward, allowing you to focus on the scenery and your physical effort. The group size is capped at 15, maintaining a friendly, intimate atmosphere.

Meals and Camping

Meals are included for most days—breakfast, lunch, and dinner—cooked by the guides or their team. The food is generally well-reviewed, with some mentioning the chef Nasario’s excellent cooking. Camping gear, including tents and sleeping bags, is provided, though reviews suggest that upgrading tents could make the nights more comfortable.

Cost and Value

At $420, this trip offers good value considering the included services: transport, meals, camping gear, Machu Picchu entry (subject to availability), and guided tours. For outdoor lovers eager to tackle a challenging trail and see Peru’s varied ecosystems, it’s a compelling option.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This trek is ideal for travelers in good physical condition who enjoy adventure travel and don’t mind long days of hiking. Nature enthusiasts will love the varied landscapes—from high-altitude plains to tropical forests—and those interested in more remote, authentic experiences will find the camping and less crowded trail satisfying.

The tour’s focus on guided insight and local culture makes it suitable for curious travelers ready for a physically demanding but rewarding journey. If you’re looking for a challenge, love hiking, and want to see Machu Picchu from a different angle, this is a superb choice.

FAQs

Is this trek suitable for beginners?
No, this trek involves long, strenuous days with up to 9 hours of walking, so it’s better suited for those with good fitness levels.

What is included in the price?
The tour includes train tickets, transportation, most meals, camping gear, Machu Picchu tickets (subject to availability), and expert guides.

Do I need to bring my own camping gear?
No, camping kits are provided, but you may wish to bring your own sleeping bag if you prefer extra comfort.

How are the guides?
Travelers consistently praise the guides for their professionalism, knowledge, and friendliness—many mention guides like Manuel and Nasario as highlights.

Is Machu Picchu ticket guaranteed?
No, Machu Picchu tickets are subject to availability and are sold only by the Peruvian Ministry of Culture. If unavailable, you’ll receive a full refund.

What about altitude?
The trek reaches over 4,200 meters at Humantay Lagoon and nearly 4,600 meters at Salkantay Pass, so acclimatization is recommended.

Can I customize the experience?
The tour is scheduled as a fixed itinerary, but group size limits ensure personalized attention. Any special requests should be discussed directly with the provider.

How much walking is involved each day?
Between 5 and 9 hours daily, with the most challenging days being Day 2 and Day 3, which involve steep ascents and descents.

What should I pack?
Warm clothes, waterproof gear, sturdy hiking boots, sun protection, and your personal essentials. Consider bringing a camera for the stunning scenery.

Final Thoughts

The 5-Day Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu provides a serious adventure for those eager to combine physical activity with cultural discovery. Its rugged charm, guided expertise, and breathtaking landscapes make it a standout choice for dedicated trek lovers. It’s not for the faint-hearted, but for those prepared for a challenge, it offers an authentic connection to Peru’s natural beauty and ancient ruins.

If you’re craving a more immersive, less touristy experience with ample time to enjoy the outdoors, this trek delivers. Expect long days, spectacular scenery, and the rewarding sight of Machu Picchu’s terraces rising from the mist—an unforgettable payoff for your effort. This journey is best suited for active travelers who value guides with local knowledge and are ready to sleep under the stars in truly stunning settings.

Enjoy your adventure—Peru’s mountains and history await!