Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu: 5-Day Tour

The Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu: An Authentic Alternative to the Inca Trail

The Salkantay Trek is a five-day adventure that takes you through some of the Andes’ most breathtaking landscapes, from snow-capped peaks to lush tropical jungles, culminating at the iconic Machu Picchu. For around $460.52 per person, this tour provides a thorough immersion into Peru’s diverse natural environments, with a well-organized itinerary designed to blend physical challenge with cultural discovery. Your guides—like Jean Paul, Luiz, or Armando—are repeatedly praised for their knowledge, friendliness, and ability to make the journey both manageable and fun.

Two things we really like about this trek: First, the variety of climates and scenery makes every day feel like a different adventure, with highlights like the majestic Salkantay Mountain and the exotic flora of the jungle. Second, the personalized service and good value—including all meals, accommodations, and professional guides—mean you often get more than what you pay for. A possible consideration is the physical demand of the trek, which requires moderate fitness, especially on the days crossing high passes.

This experience is perfect for travelers seeking an adventure off the beaten path. It’s ideal if you want to skip the crowded Inca Trail but still want a comprehensive trek with authentic scenery, cultural insights, and the satisfaction of reaching Machu Picchu after days of hiking.

Key Points

• Diverse landscapes: From snow-capped mountains to tropical jungles, the route offers stunning visual contrasts.
• Authentic experience: Less crowded than Inca Trail, offering a more personal and immersive journey.
• Expert guides: Well-reviewed guides make the trek educational and enjoyable.
• All-inclusive value: Food, camping gear, transportation, and entrance fees included, making it straightforward and stress-free.
• Physical challenge: The trek involves high altitudes and several long days of walking, suited for those with moderate fitness.
• Cultural insights: Opportunities to see local flora, fauna, and traditional community visits.

Detailed Review of the Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu

Starting the Adventure: Day 1 – Into the Mountains

The journey begins early—around 4:30 am—with a pickup from your hotel in Cusco. From there, you’ll enjoy a two-hour scenic drive through the Limatambo Valley to Mollepata, a charming town at about 2,800 meters. This initial stage is a gentle warm-up, but the real adventure starts once you meet your muleteers and pack mules in Marcocasa village, where you set off on the Salkantay Trail.

Over the next four hours of hiking, you’ll be amazed by the changing scenery—mountains, valleys, and cloud forests. Lunch in Soraypampa (3,825 meters) marks the first major stop, giving you time to soak in the views of Humantay Mountain and the snow-capped Salkantay Peak. The afternoon’s highlight is a walk to the Humantay Lake, where the vivid color of the water perfectly contrasts with the snow-dusted peaks.

Reviewers love how this first day combines manageable hiking with stunning vistas. One called it “fantastic,” citing the “amazing scenery” and “great food and accommodations,” all guided by knowledgeable guides like Jean Paul.

Day 2 – Over the High Pass and Into the Jungle

The second day is the most physically demanding, with an early start and a two-hour hike to the Salkantay Pass (4,650 meters). Here, you’ll get a close-up look at the majestic Salkantay Mountain—a snow-capped giant that dominates the landscape. The views are breathtaking, with avalanches and glaciers adding drama to the scenery.

From the high pass, you’ll descend through a series of terrains—first the towering Andes, then gradually into the high jungle. The vegetation becomes lush, and the air warmer. This transition from icy peaks to tropical flora is what makes this trek so unique. The day ends at the Colpapampa campsite, where you’ll enjoy dinner under the stars.

Some reviews highlight the day’s long duration—up to 10 hours—but note that the effort is rewarded by the incredible scenery and sense of achievement. Guides like Luiz make the journey smoother with their expertise.

Day 3 – Crossing Valleys and Streams

Day three starts at dawn. You’ll walk through the high Inca jungle, crossing streams and small rivers, with flora and fauna abundant along the way. You’ll pass by waterfalls and lush valleys that give a glimpse of the region’s rich biodiversity.

You will stop in Playa Sahuayaco for lunch at around 2,250 meters, then board a van that takes you to Santa Teresa. This day is somewhat more relaxed, allowing you to enjoy the sights and sounds of the jungle environment. Travelers consistently praise the delicious meals and the helpfulness of guides. One reviewer noted their guide’s knowledge of Inca rituals, which added a cultural layer to the journey.

Day 4 – From Jungle to the Sacred Mountain

After breakfast, you follow a trail from Santa Teresa valley toward Hidroeléctrica, where you’ll have lunch. The walk continues along the train tracks, with spectacular views of Machu Picchu and Huayna Picchu in the distance. The final stretch to Aguas Calientes takes about three hours, ending with a walk through the lively town known as the gateway to Machu Picchu.

This day is well-loved for its scenic landscape—the views of Machu Picchu in the distance often leave travelers in awe. The journey ends with a night in Aguas Calientes, giving you a chance to rest before visiting Machu Picchu early the next morning.

Day 5 – Reaching Machu Picchu

The final day begins very early—around 4:30 am—to beat the crowds and start the walk up to Machu Picchu. Your guide will lead a two-hour tour of the site, highlighting key structures and stories. Afterwards, you’ll have free time to explore further, including options to climb Huayna Picchu (with prior reservation and extra fee) or visit other parts of the citadel.

Many reviewers mention the epic feeling of arriving at Machu Picchu after days of hiking. One said, “The trek was challenging but the views and journey were worth it.” The sense of accomplishment, combined with the awe-inspiring ruins, makes this a highlight worth the effort.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour covers transportation from Cusco to Mollepata, all camping gear, meals, guides, and entrance to Machu Picchu. The train ticket from Machu Picchu to Ollantaytambo and transport back to Cusco**are also included, making the logistics seamless.

Not included are the first breakfast and last lunch, as well as optional extras like climbing Huayna Picchu (which requires a separate ticket). You’ll need to bring your own rain jacket, hiking boots, and snacks—a small investment in comfort and safety.

The Experience and Its Value

Many travelers praise the quality of guides, describing them as “knowledgeable, friendly, and supportive.” The meals, often highlighted as delicious, add to the sense of comfort amidst the rugged environment. The group size, often limited to ten travelers, fosters a more personalized experience, and the small group nature enhances the sense of camaraderie.

The value for the price is high considering everything included—meals, gear, transportation, entrance fees, and guided tours. While some days involve long hikes at high altitude, reviews consistently mention that the scenery mitigates the physical challenge.

Possible Drawbacks

The main consideration is the physical nature of the trek. It’s suitable for those with moderate fitness levels, prepared for steep walks and high elevations. Also, the long days can be tiring, especially if weather conditions turn challenging. The altitude might affect some travelers, so acclimatization beforehand is recommended.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This trek is perfect for adventurous travelers who want to see Peru’s changing landscapes without joining the crowds on the Inca Trail. If you appreciate authentic experiences, want to connect with nature and local culture, and don’t mind a physical challenge, this trip is for you. It’s especially appealing if you value delicious food, knowledgeable guides, and a well-organized itinerary.

FAQ

Is this trek suitable for beginners?
While it’s accessible for many with moderate fitness, the trek’s high altitudes and long days mean you should be comfortable with some physical activity. Training beforehand helps.

Are meals included?
Yes, the tour provides four breakfasts, four dinners, and four lunches, which are often praised as tasty and plentiful.

Do I need to bring my own gear?
You should bring essentials like a rain jacket, hiking boots, t-shirts, snacks, and personal items. The tour supplies tents, mattresses, and kitchen equipment.

How many people are typically in a group?
The tour is limited to a maximum of 10 travelers, ensuring a more personal experience and better attention from guides.

Can I send luggage ahead?
Yes, you can send up to 5kg (11 lbs) of personal belongings for free, so you can lighten your load for the trek.

What is the best way to prepare physically?
While you don’t need to be an ultra-athlete, some cardio and hiking practice is advisable. The terrain includes steep sections and high altitudes.

Is it possible to climb Huayna Picchu?
Yes, but it requires a separate ticket purchased in advance. It’s a popular optional addition for those wanting a panoramic view of Machu Picchu.

Is this tour family-friendly?
It’s generally suitable for travelers with moderate fitness levels and older children used to hiking. Always check personal health considerations.

What if it rains?
Peru’s weather can be unpredictable. Pack a rain jacket and quick-drying clothing. The landscape is still stunning in rain or shine.

Final Thoughts

The Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu offers an excellent alternative for those wanting a more authentic, less crowded experience. Its combination of diverse landscapes, cultural insights, and excellent guides makes it a compelling choice—especially if you’re prepared for some physical exertion. The inclusive nature of the trip, with meals, gear, and transportation all taken care of, provides good value for your investment.

If you crave a challenging, scenic adventure that ends with the awe of Machu Picchu, this trek will suit you perfectly. It’s a journey that rewards effort with spectacular views, authentic encounters, and the ultimate payoff: standing atop Machu Picchu after days of hiking through Peru’s incredible terrain.

In short: For travelers who want an active, immersive experience that combines adventure, culture, and natural beauty—with the guidance of passionate professionals—this five-day Salkantay Trek delivers a memorable and worthwhile journey.