Cusco: 5-Day Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu with Tickets

Exploring the Salkantay: A 5-Day Trek from Cusco to Machu Picchu

If you’re looking for an adventure-packed journey that combines awe-inspiring mountain vistas, authentic local culture, and the thrill of the great outdoors, this 5-day Salkantay Trek might just be what you need. Priced at $598 per person, this guided experience departs from Cusco and takes you through striking landscapes, picturesque valleys, and iconic sites like Humantay Lake and Llactapata, culminating at the world-famous Machu Picchu. Led by experienced guides like Roger and Fillo—who receive glowing reviews—this tour offers a deeply personal and informative experience, especially if you enjoy learning about the local culture and hiking in less crowded, scenic routes.

What we love about this trek is the careful mix of adventure and comfort: the included camping gear and meals mean you don’t have to worry about logistics, and the chance to camp with a view of Machu Picchu at Llactapata is truly unforgettable. Plus, the panoramic Vistadome train ride back to Cusco offers a relaxing way to reflect on your journey amidst spectacular scenery. One potential consideration? The tour is quite active and involves some altitude and physical exertion, so it’s best suited for travelers who are prepared for a multi-day trek.

This experience is ideal for those who want more than just a day-trip to Machu Picchu—it’s perfect for nature lovers, adventure seekers, and anyone wanting a deeper connection to the landscape and local culture. If you’re comfortable with multi-day hikes and camping, you’ll find this trek particularly rewarding. Keep in mind that the tour is non-refundable, so it’s best to plan ahead and be sure of your fitness and interest level.

Key Points

• Authentic multi-day experience with guided hikes, camping, and cultural visits.
• Excellent guides like Roger and Fillo receive high praise for their knowledge and care.
• Spectacular scenery including Humantay Lake, Llactapata, and the Salkantay Pass.
• All-inclusive price covers meals, camping gear, and transportation, offering good value.
• Highly rated for organization, guides, and authentic experiences.
• Considerations include physical demands and the non-refundable policy.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Closer Look at the 5-Day Salkantay Trek

When we think about trekking in Peru, the classic Inca Trail often comes to mind, but the Salkantay route offers a less crowded, equally stunning alternative. This journey from Cusco to Machu Picchu over five days is a comprehensive way to experience the diverse landscapes of the region—mountains, cloud forests, orchids, and terraced valleys.

Starting Point: Soraypampa and the Trek to Humantay Lake

Your adventure begins with a bus ride from Cusco to the trailhead at Soraypampa. Here, we’re already immersed in spectacular views of Salkantay, one of the highest and most revered peaks in the area. The hike to Humantay Lake is a highlight—its turquoise waters set against snowy peaks provide one of the most Instagram-worthy moments. As one reviewer noted, guides like Fillo took care of every detail, including managing altitude headaches, which can be common at this stage.

Day 2: Trek to Salka-Glamp Campsite

The second day involves a steady climb into the high mountain passes, with terrain that varies from rugged stone paths to lush alpine meadows. The camping at the Llaqtapata site facing Machu Picchu is especially memorable. Here, you’ll get a glimpse of Machu Picchu Mountain and the surrounding peaks, with the ruins just a short trip away the next day. The included camping gear and meals make the experience comfortable, and many travelers appreciate the “glamp” style, which combines rustic charm with a touch of comfort.

Day 3 & 4: Descending through Valleys, Visiting Local Culture

Over the next two days, the trail winds through cloud forests, where you might see orchids and hummingbirds. You’ll visit local coffee farms—a chance to engage with Peruvian agricultural traditions—and enjoy a Pachamanca barbecue, a traditional Andean method of cooking underground with hot stones. These days balance outdoor activity with authentic cultural encounters, enriching the journey beyond just nature.

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Final Day: Llactapata and Machu Picchu

The trail culminates at Llactapata, a lesser-visited Inca site with spectacular views of Machu Picchu below. Camping here is a rare treat, and as some reviews mention, guides like Fillio help make this a seamless experience. The next morning, it’s a short hike down to Aguas Calientes, where you’ll overnight in a hostel before taking the train.

The Return: Panoramic Vistadome Train

The trip concludes with a Vistadome train ride back to Cusco, offering panoramic windows and a relaxing way to see the landscape from a different perspective. This comfortable return is a fitting end, especially after days of hiking.

What the Tour Includes and What You Should Know

The tour covers transportation from Cusco to the trailhead, all meals (except the final day’s lunch in Machu Picchu), camping gear, entry tickets, and the train back. The porters, cooks, and guides work hard to make sure your experience is smooth, providing hot showers, medical kits, and plenty of water along the way.

You’ll need a passport or ID, comfortable shoes, sun protection, and weather-appropriate clothing. Rental gear options like sleeping bags and trekking poles are available, which can be helpful if you’re traveling light or don’t own your own gear.

The tour is not suitable for pregnant travelers, those with back or mobility issues, or anyone with heart problems. It’s also important to note that Huayna Picchu and Machu Picchu Mountain passes require advance booking, so plan accordingly.

Authentic Experiences and Honest Feedback

The reviews highlight the expertise and friendliness of guides—with phrases like “Fillo was the most amazing guide”—which makes a big difference on multi-day hikes. The high praise for guides’ attentiveness and knowledge shows that this tour doesn’t just focus on the scenery but also on creating a meaningful experience.

Travelers also appreciated the quality of food and camping arrangements, with one reviewer calling the meals “top notch” and noting that the rental sleeping bag was clean and warm. These little comforts add up when you’re spending several nights outdoors.

Some travelers mentioned that two guides might not be enough if the group splits up to visit different sites—an important consideration if you’re traveling with friends or family and want to stay together.

Who This Tour Is Best For

This trek suits adventurous travelers who are comfortable with multi-day hikes and camping. The inclusion of cultural visits, such as the coffee tour and Pachamanca BBQ, makes it perfect for those wanting a deep dive into local traditions. If you’re seeking spectacular views and less crowded paths compared to the Inca Trail, this is an excellent choice.

While the physical demands are moderate to high, the guides’ expertise and well-organized logistics** help ensure a safe and enjoyable journey. It’s an ideal experience if you want an authentic, active adventure that rewards your effort with incredible scenery and meaningful cultural insights.

Final Thoughts

This 5-day Salkantay Trek offers a fantastic blend of adventure, scenery, and cultural discovery at a competitive price. The inclusion of guides, porters, camping gear, and meals ensures you’re well cared for without the hassle of organizing every detail yourself.

It’s perfect for those who crave a more rugged, immersive journey that takes them off the beaten path and into the heart of Peru’s breathtaking landscapes. The enthusiastic reviews underscore the quality of guides and the stunning vistas, making this trek a memorable way to connect with both nature and local traditions.

If you’re prepared for a physical challenge and eager for an authentic adventure, this trek is sure to deliver experiences you’ll cherish long after your return home.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for beginners?
While no specific beginner level is advertised, the trek involves several days of hiking at high altitudes. It’s best for active travelers comfortable with multi-day outdoor activities.

What’s included in the price?
All transportation, meals (except the final lunch in Machu Picchu), camping gear (tents, sleeping pads), entrance tickets, the train back to Cusco, guides, and porters are included.

Can I rent gear like a sleeping bag?
Yes, sleeping bags, inflatable mattresses, and trekking poles can be rented if needed.

Are meals provided every day?
Yes, the tour includes all meals except the last day’s lunch in Machu Picchu. The food is generally praised for its quality and variety.

What if I want to visit Huayna Picchu?
This requires advance booking separate from the tour, and an additional pass, so plan ahead if this is a priority.

Is the tour non-refundable?
Correct, the activity is non-refundable, so be sure of your plans before booking.

How physically demanding is the trek?
The trek involves high-altitude hiking and some strenuous sections, but guides assist with altitude issues and pacing.

What should I bring?
Passport or ID, comfortable shoes, sun protection, rain gear, warm layers, personal medication, camera, extra batteries, and a small backpack.

Are children allowed?
Children must be accompanied by an adult, but this tour is not recommended for very young children due to the physical demands.

What is the best time to do this trek?
Check availability for specific starting dates, but generally, the dry season from May to September offers the best weather for trekking.

This Salkantay Trek offers a balanced mix of challenge, comfort, and genuine cultural encounters. Whether you’re seeking breathtaking views or a meaningful journey into Peru’s landscapes and traditions, it’s a memorable way to experience the region.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby