Cusco: 5-Day Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu

Cusco: 5-Day Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu offers a compelling alternative to the classic Inca Trail, taking you through some of Peru’s most striking landscapes. For $563 per person, this tour spans five days of hiking, exploring high mountain passes, lush valleys, and archaeological sites, culminating at the iconic Machu Picchu. The journey is led by knowledgeable guides, with small groups limited to 17 travelers, which helps keep the experience intimate and flexible.

What we love most about this trek is its combination of spectacular mountain scenery—especially the views from the Salkantay Pass—and the chance to relax in the Cocalmayo Hot Springs, a perfect way to unwind after days of hiking. Also, the inclusion of a guided tour of Machu Picchu adds a layer of knowledge that makes the experience more meaningful. One aspect to consider is that this trek involves hiking at high altitudes and long days on foot, so it’s best suited for travelers with a good level of fitness.

A potential drawback is that the tour doesn’t include the admission to Humantay Lagoon, which costs extra. The trek’s remote nature means some logistical aspects, like transportation and weather, are outside the operator’s control. Still, if you’re looking for an active adventure and authentic encounters with nature and Inca ruins, this trip offers excellent value.

This experience is ideal for travelers who want a less crowded alternative to the Inca Trail, enjoy breathtaking mountain vistas, and are comfortable with multi-day hikes. Nature lovers, adventure seekers, and those interested in cultural sites will find plenty to love here. If you’re after a balanced mix of physical activity and cultural discovery, this trek is a solid choice.

Key Points

• Spectacular scenery including Humantay Lagoon, Salkantay Pass, and the peaks of Humantay, Tucarhuay, and Pumasillo.
• Authentic experience with visits to Inca sites like Llactapata and the opportunity to explore Machu Picchu with a guided tour.
• Comfortable camping in mountain camps with meals included, plus a night at a 2-star hotel at Aguas Calientes.
• Physical challenge involves high-altitude hiking, sometimes in variable weather, so good fitness and preparation are important.
• Additional costs may include entrance fees for certain sites like Humantay Lagoon and hot springs.
• Small group size enhances the experience with personalized attention and a more relaxed atmosphere.

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An In-Depth Look at the 5-Day Salkantay Trek

Starting in Cusco: Setting the Stage for Adventure

The tour begins with a hotel pickup in Cusco, which means you don’t have to worry about arranging transport—always a relief after a long journey into the Sacred Valley. From there, a scenic drive takes you to Mollepata, a charming village where breakfast is served before heading to Soraypampa. This initial step is not just logistical; it’s an opportunity to acclimate and start soaking in the Andean atmosphere.

Day 1: From Soraypampa to Humantay Lagoon

The first hike is relatively short but packs a punch. We loved the way the guide emphasized the natural beauty of Humantay Lagoon, with its striking turquoise waters set against snow-capped peaks. The two-hour trek to the lagoon is accessible for most fit travelers and offers plenty of opportunities for photos. The clear, crisp air and stunning reflections make it a highlight. The free time here allows you to admire the scenery and take photographs from different angles before returning to camp. Dinner and camping at Soraypampa set a peaceful tone for the beginning of this adventure.

Day 2: From Soraypampa to Salkantay Pass

This is the day most travelers anticipate—the ascent to the Salkantay Pass, at 4,620 meters (15,157 feet). The guide will point out the towering peaks of Humantay, Tucarhuay, and Pumasillo, which dominate the skyline. The ascent is challenging but rewarding, with panoramic views that make every step worthwhile. One traveler noted, “The views from the pass are unforgettable—snowy peaks stretching as far as the eye can see.” The descent offers a chance to catch your breath and enjoy a hearty lunch before reaching Chaullay, deep in the cloud forest.

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Day 3: From Chaullay to Santa Teresa and Hot Springs

This day is more relaxed and scenic. We loved the rich diversity of flora and fauna, with waterfalls, orchids, and plantations of coffee, bananas, and avocados along the way. The trek to Sahuayaco Beach is about five hours—long enough to feel like a proper hike but manageable with good pacing. The highlight is relaxing in the Cocalmayo Hot Springs in Santa Teresa, perfect for soothing tired muscles. The lush, tropical surroundings are a pleasant contrast to the high mountain passes, and the hot springs are well worth the small additional fee.

Day 4: From Santa Teresa to Machu Picchu via Llactapata

Starting with a morning hike, you’ll visit the Llactapata ruins, which offer spectacular views of Machu Picchu from afar. We loved the feeling of walking through the Inca terraces and imagining what life was like centuries ago. The walk down to the Hidroeléctrica station is a mix of trail and train tracks, leading into the vibrant town of Aguas Calientes. Here, you’ll stay in a modest hotel and enjoy a relaxed evening, ready for the big day ahead.

Day 5: Machu Picchu — The Grand Finale

The final morning begins early with a breakfast packed for the hike up to Machu Picchu. The guided tour uncovers the stories behind this legendary site, from its terraced slopes to its temples. Guided tours are included, which adds valuable context to your visit. Many reviewers highlight how the experience of wandering around this site, with fewer crowds early in the morning, makes it all the more special. Afterward, you return to Cusco, with an expected arrival around 10 pm—long, but fulfilling.

Practical Details and Value

The price of $563 covers the majority of essentials: accommodations in mountain camps, meals, transportation, and guided tours. The inclusion of a 7-kilo backpack means you won’t need to carry all your gear, making the hikes more manageable. However, you’ll need to budget extra for optional expenses like the Humantay Lagoon entrance fee and hot springs.

The tour’s small group size is a plus, ensuring you get more personalized attention, and guides tend to be knowledgeable and enthusiastic. The tour is suitable for those with a reasonable level of fitness, given the high-altitude ascents and long days of walking. The physical effort is balanced by the spectacular scenery and cultural insights.

The Limitations

While the tour offers great value, it does not include certain extras like the admission to Humantay Lagoon or transportation to the hot springs, which adds to your total cost. Weather can be unpredictable in the mountains, so packing appropriately is critical. Also, since the tour ends late on Day 5, be prepared for a long return journey to Cusco.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This trek is best suited for active travelers who want to see more than just Machu Picchu—those eager to experience diverse landscapes, from high mountain passes to lush valleys. If you’re comfortable with multi-day hikes and want to avoid the crowds of the Inca Trail, this is an ideal choice.

It also appeals to those interested in Inca archaeology, as the visit to Llactapata complements the main attraction. If you prefer a guided experience that combines adventure, culture, and natural beauty without the high cost of the Inca Trail, this tour offers excellent value.

The Sum Up

In short, the Cusco 5-Day Salkantay Trek is a fantastic way to combine outdoor adventure with cultural discovery. The views—especially the Salkantay Pass and Humantay Lagoon—are truly breathtaking and worth every step of the journey. The tour strikes a good balance between challenging hikes and comfortable camping, capped off by the awe-inspiring moment arriving at Machu Picchu.

This experience best suits travelers who love outdoor activities, are physically prepared for high-altitude hiking, and seek authentic encounters away from crowded tourist spots. The inclusion of guided visits and small group size enhances the overall quality, making it a memorable, value-packed adventure.

If you’re looking for a trip that delivers stunning scenery, cultural richness, and a sense of achievement—without paying the premium for the Inca Trail—this trek deserves serious consideration.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for all fitness levels?
The trek involves high-altitude hiking and long days on foot, so it’s best suited for travelers with good fitness levels. Some parts, like the ascent to Salkantay Pass, can be physically demanding.

Are meals included?
Yes, the tour includes four lunches and four dinners, along with accommodations in mountain camps and one night at a 2-star hotel with breakfast. However, breakfast on the first day and dinner on the last day are not included.

Do I need to bring my own gear?
The tour provides a 7-kilo backpack for your belongings, but you’ll need to bring personal gear such as a sleeping bag (not included), weather-appropriate clothing, and hiking essentials.

Are there additional costs I should budget for?
Yes, extra fees include the admission to Humantay Lagoon (S/ 20 or about US$ 5.30) and the Santa Teresa Hot Springs (S/ 25 or about US$ 6.70). These are not included in the base price.

How large are the groups?
The tour operates with small groups limited to 17 participants, allowing for more personalized attention and a better group experience.

What is the best time of year for this trek?
While not specified here, typically the dry season (May to September) offers clearer skies and better hiking conditions, making it the most popular time for this adventure.

Embark on this journey if you crave stunning mountain views, a taste of Inca history, and the satisfaction of completing a memorable trek. It’s a great way to see Peru’s diverse landscapes while avoiding the crowds—an authentic adventure worth considering.

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