Salkantay Classic Trek 5 Days from Cusco

Travelers craving an authentic trek to Machu Picchu often face a choice: do they follow the well-trodden Inca Trail or explore a less crowded, equally stunning route? The Salkantay Trek offers a compelling alternative, and this 5-day adventure from Cusco delivers a mix of high-altitude mountain vistas, lush cloud forests, and riveting archaeological sites. Priced at $750 per person, it’s a package that includes accommodations, meals, porters, and all the logistics, making it a hassle-free way to connect with Peru’s breathtaking landscapes.

What we love most about this trek? First, the small-group size, maxing out at just 10 hikers, fosters a more personal, relaxed experience. Second, the variety of ecosystems encountered—from snow-capped peaks to humid jungles—ensures each day feels distinct and engaging. However, keep in mind that this trek demands good physical fitness and a willingness to tackle challenging terrain. If you’re up for an energetic adventure coupled with incredible scenery and cultural moments, this trip is an excellent choice—especially if the Inca Trail is sold out or too crowded.

A key consideration is the challenging nature of some days, notably Day 2’s 10-hour hike over the Salkantay Pass. But the rewards—spectacular views, the chance to see Machu Picchu from a unique perspective, and the sense of achievement—are well worth the effort. This tour suits travelers who want a more authentic, less commercial route and don’t mind pushing their limits a bit. It’s perfect for adventure-minded folks who value small groups, quality guides, and authentic scenery.

Key Points

• Authentic alternative to the Inca Trail, offering diverse ecosystems and stunning scenery.
• Small-group size enhances comfort and personal attention.
• All logistics managed—from accommodations to meals—so you can focus on the experience.
• Challenging terrain requires good physical condition and preparation.
• Includes Machu Picchu visit, with flexible options for extra hikes.
• Excellent reviews highlighting knowledgeable guides, delicious food, and beautiful views.

Starting early, the tour begins with a pickup in Cusco, heading toward Mollepata, where an optional breakfast provides a chance to fuel up. The drive then continues to Challacancha, the official trailhead. From here, the real excitement begins with a 3-hour trek to Sky Camp at Soraypampa. We loved the way the guide points out the snow-capped Salkantay Mountain, the trail’s namesake, and the first glimpses of towering peaks. The first day’s highlight is the visit to Humantay Lake, often called the jewel in the mountains, where reflections of the surrounding peaks shimmer in the water. It’s an ideal introduction to the scenery that will continue to wow us.

The camp at Soraypampa is cozy and well-equipped, providing a restful base for the night. The meals, prepared by the expert chef, are hearty and flavorful—important after the day’s exertion. As one reviewer noted, the experience is beautiful and challenging, but the scenery makes every step worthwhile.

Day 2 is the most demanding, with a 10-hour hike that demands stamina and resilience. The day starts early with breakfast before heading up for about 3 hours to the Salkantay Pass, the highest point of the trek at 4,620 meters (15,157 feet). The ascent is steep but rewarding, offering breathtaking panoramas of the surrounding mountains. We appreciated how the guide took time to point out the geological formations and share stories about the region.

After reaching the pass, you descend through the cloud forest, a lush, misty environment teeming with orchids and exotic plants. The trail then takes you to Chaullay, an inviting spot where you settle into a simple but comfortable Andean Hut for the night. This day underscores the trek’s diversity—mountains, forests, and exotic flora—all within one adventure.

The third day is a shift to the Santa Teresa Valley, where the landscape transforms into a verdant paradise of rivers, waterfalls, and plantations. The trail winds through a jungle of bananas, coffee, and avocados, which you might find fascinating if you’re a foodie or plant lover. We loved the way the trail feels like a different world, with sounds of wildlife and the smell of fresh earth.

The Jungle Domes camp provides a peaceful place to relax and recharge. Many trekkers enjoy visiting a nearby organic coffee farm, gaining insight into local agriculture. The organic coffee tasting was a highlight for some, adding a cultural twist to the natural beauty. The sounds of nature at night make falling asleep an immersive experience.

On day 4, the trek combines the old with the new. You walk along a section of the original Inca Trail, ascending for about 2 hours to Llactapata, an incredible archaeological site with sweeping vistas of Machu Picchu. Here, you get your first real glimpse of the famous site, and our guide provided engaging commentary about its history.

After exploring the ruins, you descend to a local restaurant for lunch, then head toward Hidroelectrica, the power plant that marks the start of the final stretch. From there, you can continue on foot for about 3 hours to Aguas Calientes or opt for the train (additional fee applies). Many travelers enjoy the walk, soaking in the lush scenery and feeling the culmination of their efforts.

The grand finale is a sunrise visit to Machu Picchu—the ultimate reward. Getting there early helps beat the crowds, and the first views of the citadel are truly unforgettable. The 2-hour guided tour covers key sectors, sharing insights into the site’s purpose and architecture. If you’ve booked additional hikes—like Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu mountains—you’ll have extra time to explore at your pace.

After the tour, we recommend grabbing lunch in Aguas Calientes before catching the train back to Ollantaytambo and concluding the day with private transport to Cusco. The tour includes the ticket to Machu Picchu and the transportation, making the experience seamless.

What Travelers Say

Reviews highlight the knowledge and enthusiasm of guides, with many mentioning how they “learnt a lot” and appreciated “great group” dynamics. The scenery gets rave reviews, with one saying, “beautiful and challenging,” and others noting the “fantastic views” from the passes and archaeological sites. Food is another standout, with travelers often remarking on the delicious meals and the care taken to accommodate dietary restrictions.

Some, like Bryden, mentioned that their guide could have been more communicative, which is worth considering if you prefer constant information and engagement. The small group size allows for a more intimate experience, and the combination of campsites, homestays, and a hotel stay in Aguas Calientes provides a good balance of rustic adventure and comfort.

Practical Considerations

While the trek is packed with spectacular sights, it’s not for everyone. The challenging terrain, especially on Day 2, requires good physical fitness. We recommend arriving in Cusco at least two days early to adjust to the altitude, ensuring you can enjoy every moment without feeling overly fatigued.

The cost of $750 includes most essentials—meals, accommodations, guides, and Machu Picchu entry—making it good value for a comprehensive, guided trek. Additional costs, like the train from Hidroelectrica or optional hikes, are clearly outlined, so budgeting is straightforward.

If you’re an adventure seeker who wants to avoid the crowds and experience Peru’s diverse ecosystems and landscapes, this trek will delight you. It’s ideal for those comfortable with long, strenuous days and who appreciate authentic experiences over luxury. The small-group format and knowledgeable guides ensure you’ll get personalized attention, making it suitable even for first-time trekkers with good fitness.

However, if you’re prone to altitude sickness or prefer a more relaxed pace, this might be a challenging choice. Still, the stunning scenery, cultural insights, and the chance to stand in awe at Machu Picchu make it a trip worth planning for.

For travelers craving a less crowded, more natural route to Machu Picchu, the Salkantay Trek offers remarkable scenery, cultural richness, and logistical ease. It’s a physically demanding but deeply rewarding journey that combines mountain peaks, lush jungles, and ancient ruins with the excitement of reaching one of the world’s most iconic sites. The value for money is solid, considering the included meals, accommodations, and guided experience.

We believe this trek suits adventurous travelers, those eager for authentic encounters and willing to push their limits a bit. The well-organized logistics, combined with the stunning scenery and friendly guides, make it a memorable option for anyone looking for a true Peruvian adventure that’s a step off the beaten path.

Is this trek suitable for beginners?
While the trek is manageable for most physically fit travelers, it’s quite challenging, especially on Day 2 with a 10-hour hike over high-altitude passes. Good physical fitness and prior hiking experience are recommended.

What is included in the price?
The $750 fee covers guides, all transportation, meals (4 breakfasts, 4 lunches, 4 dinners), camping gear, accommodation in Aguas Calientes, Machu Picchu entry, porter service, and entrance fees.

Do I need to bring my own gear?
Most gear, such as trekking poles, rain ponchos, and sleeping bags, are provided, but you should bring personal items like a daypack, water bottle, and personal toiletries.

Can I customize or add extra hikes?
Yes, options like the Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu mountains can be booked separately, subject to availability.

How early should I book?
It’s best to reserve at least two months in advance since spots sell out quickly, especially in peak seasons.

Is this trek environmentally friendly?
The tour manages logistics and camping facilities to minimize impact, but travelers should always practice Leave No Trace principles.

What about altitude sickness?
Arriving in Cusco a couple of days early helps acclimate. The trek reaches high altitudes, so listen to your body and stay hydrated.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour is weather-dependent; if canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

In all, the Salkantay Classic Trek offers a fantastic, authentic, and relatively affordable way to reach Machu Picchu beyond the crowds, rewarding hikers with diverse ecosystems, cultural insights, and a sense of achievement. It’s best suited for hardy travelers eager for a genuine adventure and breathtaking views—an experience you’ll carry with you long after the trip ends.