5 Days Salkantay Trek Tour To Machu Picchu

A Perfect Balance of Adventure and Culture: The 5 Days Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu

This 5-day trek takes you from the heart of Cusco through the rugged beauty of the Peruvian Andes, culminating in the awe-inspiring ruins of Machu Picchu. Priced at $710 per person, this guided journey offers a comprehensive experience that combines challenging hikes, vibrant local culture, and the chance to see some of the most spectacular scenery in South America. Led by knowledgeable guides, you’ll explore snow-capped peaks like Salkantay, lush cloud forests, and warm thermal baths, all while staying comfortable thanks to carefully arranged camping and accommodation.

Two things we love about this tour are the authenticity of the experience—from local food served during the trek to the insightful guides who share their passion—and the diverse landscapes that keep every day exciting. The day spent climbing Salkantay Mountain and visiting Humantay Lagoon is especially memorable, offering unforgettable photo opportunities and a real sense of achievement.

One potential consideration is the physical demand—the trek includes some steep ascents and long walking hours, so it’s best suited for travelers with moderate fitness levels. Still, the support team and well-organized logistics make it feasible for most motivated hikers.

This tour appeals most to those craving an off-the-beaten-path adventure that combines physical challenge with culture. If you love stunning vistas, hearty local food, and expert guidance, this trek will suit you perfectly.

Key Points

• Authentic Experience: The tour emphasizes genuine Peruvian culture, food, and traditions, enriching your journey beyond just scenery.
• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable guides like William and Dharnely bring the destinations alive with stories and insights.
• Stunning Landscapes: From snow-capped peaks to lush cloud forests and thermal baths, the scenery is spectacular and varied.
• Balanced Itinerary: The walk includes challenging days and relaxing stops, ensuring you’re engaged but not exhausted.
• All-Inclusive Value: Food, entrance tickets, transport, and camping gear are covered, making the price highly competitive.
• Physical Fitness Required: The trek demands moderate fitness, especially on days with steep ascents, but the support and scenery make it worthwhile.

Exploring the Full Itinerary in Detail

Day 1: Starting at Mollepata and Humantay Lagoon

Early mornings in Cusco are hardly glamorous, but this tour makes the effort worthwhile. The pickup at 4:30 am kicks off your adventure with a comfortable transfer in a tourist bus heading toward Mollepata. We loved the way the early start is balanced by the promise of a full breakfast—fuel for the day ahead—and the scenic drive that sets the tone for the journey.

From Mollepata, your transport takes you to Callacancha, the official starting point of the trek at 3,600 meters. The 3-hour walk to Soraypampa (3,900 meters) introduces you to the flora and fauna of the Andes. The highlight here is a visit to Humantay Lagoon, a stunning turquoise body of water at 4,200 meters, offering a perfect photo op and a moment to breathe in the mountain air.

Reviews highlight the quality of the guides and the food, with one reviewer noting, “Guides, food, accommodations, and the landscapes everything was 10/10.” The day’s gentle start contrasts with the breathtaking scenery you’ll encounter, setting a high bar for the days to come.

Day 2: Climbing Salkantay and Crossing the Highest Point

The second day is the most physically demanding, but also the most rewarding. You’ll begin with a hearty breakfast before tackling the steepest part of the trek, passing through Salkantaypampa at 4,150 meters. The ascent to Abra Salkantay at 4,600 meters is the day’s climax, where you’ll enjoy jaw-dropping views of snow-capped mountains on either side.

One reviewer called the challenge “very demanding,” but appreciated their guide, Willman, who provided crucial moral support. The walk through the cloud forest after the high point is lush and atmospheric, providing a welcome change from the rocky ascent. The day ends at Chaullay (2,900 meters), where you’ll camp and enjoy a warm dinner.

This day exemplifies the tour’s blend of physical challenge and natural beauty. Expect to be walking about 9 hours, but the guides are attentive and seasoned, helping you pace yourself.

Day 3: From Lucmabamba to Santa Teresa

The third day shifts gears; it’s a shorter 5-hour walk, but one filled with variety. After breakfast, you move from the Beach sector to Lucmabamba (2,450 meters), where we loved the relaxed pace and scenic surroundings. The highlight here is lunch in a local setting, offering a taste of traditional Peruvian cuisine.

Later, a supportive tourist transport takes you down to Santa Teresa (1,550 meters). Visitors often mention the thermal baths of Cocalmayo as a delightful bonus—”about 5 minutes away, and perfect for relaxing after the demanding days.” The camp here is comfortable, and the atmosphere friendly. The mix of walking and resting makes this day accessible for most hikers, even with moderate fitness.

Day 4: From Hydroelectric to Aguas Calientes

This day covers the final leg of the trek, walking from the Hydroelectric plant (1,890 meters) to Aguas Calientes (2,040 meters). The scenery here is more industrial at first, but soon the path runs alongside the railway, giving you a sense of the journey’s nearing end.

The 8-hour day is manageable, and the landscape varies from lush greenery to the bustling town of Aguas Calientes. We loved the way the support team ensures comfort, with hot water and a good meal at lunchtime, making the experience more enjoyable.

Day 5: Visiting Machu Picchu

The reward for all that effort is the UNESCO World Heritage site of Machu Picchu. The morning begins with a bus ride up from Aguas Calientes, included in your package. Once inside, you’ll visit key highlights like the Main Square, Sundial, Royal Quarters, Intihuatana, and the Temple of the 3 Windows.

Visitors rave about the personalized experience—”the ascent to the watchman’s house from where you can take the most important classic photo”—and the guides’ detailed explanations help unpack the site’s mysteries. It’s approximately 2 hours of exploring, with options to extend your visit if desired.

What You Can Expect From This Tour

Transportation & Logistics: The tour is well-organized, including transfers from Cusco, support team logistics (porters, muleteers, and support staff), and all entrance tickets. The only additional costs might be optional, such as the train from Hidroelectrica (USD $35), or renting walking poles or sleeping bags.

Accommodations & Camping: The camping gear is included, with tents, mats, and support for hygiene. The nights are spent in well-organized campsites, providing a comfortable base after long days of walking. On the last night, you stay in a hotel in Aguas Calientes, which many reviewers appreciated.

Food & Support: Every day features breakfast, lunch, and dinner, with options for vegetarian or special diets. Support staff like cooks ensure you’re well-fed, and reviewers consistently praise the quality and variety of meals, describing them as “exquisite.”

Guides & Safety: Guides are licensed, knowledgeable, and passionate—many reviews mention guides like William and Dharnely by name, praising their attentiveness and local knowledge. Safety equipment like radios, first aid kits, and oxygen are always on hand.

Physical Demands & Timing: The trek’s total walking time across days varies from 5 to 9 hours, with some demanding climbs. It’s suited for travelers with moderate fitness who are prepared for variability in terrain and altitude.

Who This Tour Fits Best

This tour is ideal for travelers looking for an authentic adventure that combines hiking, culture, and scenic beauty. It suits those willing to put in some effort for unforgettable views and a sense of accomplishment. Those who value good food, expert guides, and a well-structured itinerary will find this tour gratifying.

However, those with significant mobility issues or very limited hiking experience might find the physical demands challenging. The inclusion of support staff and accommodations helps, but the steep ascents and long days require preparation and stamina.

Final Thoughts

The 5 Days Salkantay Trek offers a compelling alternative to the classic Inca Trail, with fewer restrictions on timing and a more rugged, immersive experience. It’s a journey that tests your endurance but rewards you with some of the most breathtaking landscapes in Peru, combined with the warmth of local culture and the satisfaction of reaching Machu Picchu under your own steam.

For curious travelers eager to get off the beaten path, enjoy authentic food, and learn from passionate guides, this trek delivers value that extends well beyond the price tag. The reviews echo the sentiment—many say they’d do it again—and that’s a rare compliment for a physically demanding adventure.

FAQ

• What is included in the price? The tour covers transportation from Cusco, all entrance tickets, camping gear, meals, support staff, and hotel in Aguas Calientes.
• Are vegetarian options available? Yes, the tour offers a variety of diets, including vegetarian.
• How difficult is the trek? It requires a moderate fitness level due to steep climbs and long walking hours, especially on day 2.
• Is pickup offered? Yes, there is a pickup from your hotel in Cusco at 4:30 am.
• Can I cancel if needed? Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the start of the tour for a full refund.
• Are there optional costs? Extra costs might include train tickets from Hidroelectrica to Aguas Calientes ($35), or equipment rentals like sleeping bags or walking poles.
• How long is the visit to Machu Picchu? About 2 to 3 hours, with guided highlights and free time to explore.
• What kind of support will I have during the trek? A professional guide, support team, safety equipment, and well-organized campsites.
• Is this suitable for solo travelers? Yes, the tour is private and tailored for individuals traveling alone can be accommodated comfortably.
• What should I bring? Comfortable hiking gear, personal items, sunscreen, water bottles, and perhaps a camera for the stunning scenery.

In the end, if you’re craving a physically fulfilling adventure packed with natural beauty, cultural insights, and the satisfaction of truly earning your visit to Machu Picchu, this trek is well worth considering.