Salkantay Trek 5 days to Machu Picchu by Glamping Sky Lodge Dome

The Salkantay Trek 5 days to Machu Picchu by Glamping Sky Lodge Dome is an adventure that promises both the thrill of hiking and the comfort of unique accommodations. For $761.91 per person, you’ll spend five days exploring some of the most awe-inspiring landscapes around Cusco, Peru — from snow-capped peaks and lush cloud forests to the iconic ruins of Machu Picchu. Guided by professionals and traveling with a small group, this trek is recommended by 99% of travelers, earning a perfect 5-star rating from 143 reviews.

What we love most about this trek is the combination of challenging hikes through pristine nature with the luxury of staying in Sky Lodge domes, offering a cozy retreat after days of exertion. Plus, the chance to see Humantay Lake with its striking turquoise waters and to climb the Salkantay Pass at 4,600 meters makes the journey unforgettable. Another highlight is arriving at Machu Picchu early, catching the sunrise, and exploring this legendary site without the crowds, thanks to the early start.

A possible consideration is the physical demand; this trek involves some strenuous sections, including high-altitude hikes and long walking days. While most healthy travelers can manage, those with mobility issues or altitude sickness concerns should prepare accordingly. Still, the well-organized logistics and supportive guides make it manageable for most.

This adventure suits active travelers who crave authentic Incan trails, breathtaking vistas, and a touch of comfort. If you’re looking for a mix of challenge, scenic beauty, and genuine Peru hospitality, this trek offers an excellent balance.

Key Points

• Balanced combination of adventure and comfort with Sky Lodge domes.
• Stunning vistas of snow-capped mountains, waterfalls, and lush cloud forests.
• Challenging but manageable hikes with high-altitude passes.
• Immersive experience along real Inca trails and visits to iconic sites.
• Guided by knowledgeable experts ensuring safety and enriching your experience.
• Early Machu Picchu access for fewer crowds and spectacular sunrise views.

Exploring the 5-Day Salkantay Trek in Depth

When you first hear about the Salkantay Trek, it’s easy to think of it as just another route into Machu Picchu. But this particular journey, with its luxurious Sky Lodge domes, turns a demanding adventure into something quite special. It’s an excellent choice if you’re not just after the typical tourist experience but want to truly feel part of the landscape, with the bonus of cozy accommodations that make all the difference after a day of hiking.

Starting Point and Transportation

The tour kicks off early, with a pickup from your Cusco hotel around 4:30 a.m. — indeed, an early start, but that’s when the magic begins. After a roughly three-hour drive to Mollepata, you’ll have breakfast while guides and porters prepare for the trek. The transportation on this tour is smooth and reliable, with a transfer from Cusco to the trailhead and back, including the train and bus rides from Aguas Calientes, which are all included in the price.

Day 1: Into the Andes

The first day’s walk is about 7 hours, mostly uphill for the initial three hours to Cruzpata, where you’ll enjoy your first panoramic views of Humantay Lake and Salkantay Mountain. The scenery is breathtaking, with snow-covered peaks towering around you. The campsite at Soraypampa, at 3,800 meters, is the highest and coldest of the trip, so packing warm layers is essential. Many reviews, like Renata, mention how physically demanding this part is but also how rewarding the views are. The guides make sure to keep the group motivated and safe.

Day 2: The Highest Pass and Descending Clouds

On Day 2, you climb to the Salkantay Pass at 4,650 meters — the highest point of the trek. As you reach the pass, the irrepressible sense of achievement is palpable, accompanied by incredible views of the mountains Salkantay and Tucarhuay. The possibility of snow here adds to the thrill. After taking photos and resting, you descend into cloud forests towards Huayracpunku for lunch, passing through a landscape that transforms from stark peaks to lush, green jungle. This day is about 9 hours long, testing your endurance but also rewarding you with diverse scenery.

Day 3: Into the Jungle

The third day’s 8-hour walk takes you through valleys and past waterfalls, tropical fruits, and vibrant plant life. Crossing the Lluskamayo River, you’ll enjoy a trail that feels like a true adventure, with plenty of opportunities to soak in nature’s beauty. Reaching La Playa, you’ll have a relaxed afternoon, with the chance to explore or simply rest. Many travelers, like Rachel, appreciated the flexibility due to weather, and the scenery seemed to leave a lasting impression.

Day 4: Inca Trails and Approaching Machu Picchu

The fourth day involves hiking on an original Inca trail to Llactapata — a lesser-known site that offers one of the best views of Machu Picchu in the distance. Passing through crop plantations, you’ll experience the everyday life of local farmers, including coca, banana, and other crops. After lunch at the hydroelectric station, you’ll walk along the train tracks into Aguas Calientes, where you’ll spend the night in a comfortable hostel — a welcome break after the physical effort so far. In town, many enjoy relaxing in the thermal springs, which cost around 10 soles.

Day 5: The Grand Finale at Machu Picchu

The last morning is the culmination of your efforts. You wake early (around 4 a.m.) to start the climb or catch the first bus to Machu Picchu, arriving just as the sun rises. Guided tours here are informative and give you a solid understanding of this mysterious city. For those with energy, climbing Huaynapicchu is an option, providing spectacular views from above. After exploring, you’ll descend back to Aguas Calientes, then take the train back to Ollantaytambo and continue by bus to Cusco. Many reviews, including Christopher’s, commend the early start as a highlight for avoiding crowds and experiencing the site in peace.

What Makes This Trek Stand Out?

The Sky Lodge domes are a unique feature. These are not just basic tents but cozy, semi-permanent structures with impressive views and a sense of luxury after long days on rugged trails. Many travelers, like Rachel, were delighted by the comfort and how it added to the overall experience. Plus, the tour includes most meals, guiding, and all transfers, making it a comprehensive package.

The guides are repeatedly praised for their knowledge, friendliness, and professionalism. They do more than just lead; they enrich the experience with stories and local insights, making the journey more meaningful.

The scenery is truly unforgettable, from Humantay Lake’s vibrant waters to the snow-capped peaks of Salkantay. You’ll walk through different ecosystems, from alpine tundra to tropical jungle, offering a wide range of photo opportunities and a real sense of adventure.

Practical Considerations and Value

While the trek’s price of $761.91 might seem high, it covers many essentials: accommodations in Sky Lodge domes, a night in Aguas Calientes, most meals, guided tours, entrance fees, and transportation. The inclusion of a professional guide and cooked meals adds value, especially considering the remote nature of the trail.

The physical demands are notable — expect to walk between 6 and 9 hours most days, with significant elevation gains. This trek is best suited for those in good shape and comfortable at high altitudes. The recommended gear list includes warm clothing, rain gear, sturdy boots, and a sleeping bag rated to -11°C, ensuring you stay comfortable and safe.

The tour’s small group size (max 20 travelers) fosters camaraderie and personalized attention, while the early morning starts and scenic stops give you a sense of true adventure.

Who Should Consider This Trek?

This experience is perfect for active travelers who enjoy challenging hikes but also appreciate comfort in the wilderness. If you’re eager to see Humantay Lake, cross Salkantay Pass, and walk authentic Inca trails, it’s a fantastic choice. The early access to Machu Picchu also appeals to those wanting a more intimate experience of the iconic site.

It’s suited for those who value detailed guidance, good logistics, and a mix of adventure and relaxation. However, if you’re concerned about high-altitude hiking or limited mobility, you might want to prepare well or consider a less demanding itinerary.

FAQ

• Is this trek suitable for beginners?
  While the tour is accessible to most healthy travelers, it involves strenuous hiking, high altitudes, and long days. Past travelers recommend having a decent level of fitness.

• Are vegetarian meals available?
  Yes, the tour offers vegetarian options at no extra cost, with meals prepared by a professional cook.

• What is the accommodation like?
  You stay two nights in Sky Lodge domes — cozy, semi-permanent structures with excellent views — and one night in a hostel in Aguas Calientes. The domes are praised for their comfort and unique experience.

• How early do we arrive at Machu Picchu?
  You wake up around 4 a.m. to start the trek or catch the first bus at 5:30 a.m., allowing you to arrive early and beat most crowds.

• Are guides experienced?
  Absolutely. Guides are professional, knowledgeable, and enthusiastic, ensuring your safety and enriching your understanding of the sites.

• What should I pack?
  Warm layers, rain gear, sturdy boots, a headlamp, water bottle, sun protection, and personal toiletries are recommended. The tour provides a duffel bag for your gear.

• Are entrance fees included?
  Yes, the Machu Picchu entrance fee is included, but the Salkantay trek entrance fee (20 soles) is not.

• Can I climb Huaynapicchu?
  Yes, if you have energy, you can climb Huaynapicchu, which is optional and takes about 45 minutes.

• What is the group size?
  The tour accommodates up to 20 travelers, facilitating a more personalized experience.

Final Thoughts

The Salkantay Trek with Sky Lodge glamping combines the physical challenge of hiking with the comfort of innovative accommodations. It’s a superb choice for travelers who want authentic Inca trail experiences, breathtaking scenery, and the chance to see Machu Picchu in peace and early in the morning.

While physically demanding, the guided support, beautiful vistas, and luxurious overnight stays make this a trip that’s worth every effort. If you’re looking for a memorable adventure that balances ruggedness and comfort and offers genuine insight into Peruvian landscapes and culture, this tour is a fantastic option.

Perfect for active travelers, nature lovers, and those eager to see Machu Picchu from a different angle — away from the crowds yet still well-organized and rewarding. Prepare well, pack smart, and get ready for one of the most memorable treks of your life.