Salkantay Trek Premium 5D/4N

The Salkantay Trek Premium 5D/4N offers an authentic journey through Peru’s breathtaking scenery, from glaciers and high mountain passes to lush jungles, culminating at Machu Picchu. Priced at $510 per person, this tour is aimed at travelers with a good fitness level who seek a more secluded, immersive experience compared to the crowded Inca Trail. Starting early, you’ll be picked up in Cusco and spend five days hiking through striking landscapes, staying in a mix of campsites and a cozy hotel—plus, all meals and entrance fees are included.

What we particularly love about this trip is how it combines spectacular natural views—think snowy peaks and waterfalls—with cultural encounters in mountain villages. The guided tours are led by knowledgeable guides like Jhimmy and Carlos, who make sure you get the most out of each stop while keeping the journey lively and engaging. Plus, the chance to enjoy authentic Peruvian food, from hearty camp dinners to coffee experiences in Lucmabamba, adds a flavorful touch.

On the flip side, this trek requires a good level of fitness and a willingness to camp and hike for several hours each day. It’s not suited for those looking for a relaxed, leisurely stroll—this is a true adventure. Also, the tour involves some long days on your feet, so packing the right gear and being prepared for variable weather is essential.

This tour is best suited for active travelers eager to explore Peru’s stunning scenery without the crowds, and who appreciate a mix of adventure, culture, and natural beauty. If you enjoy guided hikes with expert insights, and value comprehensive packages including meals and entrance fees, this trek could be your perfect match.

Key Points

• Authentic Experience: Combines natural beauty with visits to mountain villages and Inca sites.
• All-Inclusive: Meals, entrance fees, camping gear, and hotel nights are covered.
• Stunning Landscapes: Traverse glaciers, high jungle, and cloud forests with breathtaking views.
• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable guides like Jhimmy and Carlos enhance the experience with storytelling and care.
• Active & Challenging: Suitable for travelers with good fitness; expect long days of hiking.
• Secluded Alternative: Less crowded than Inca Trail, offering more peace and natural immersion.

An In-Depth Look at the Salkantay Trek Experience

Starting with the Highlights: From Humantay Lake to Machu Picchu

This trek begins with an early morning pickup in Cusco, whisking you off to the trailhead in Mollepata. The first major highlight is the visit to Humantay Lake—a stunning glacial lake perched at 4200 meters. We loved the way the water mirrored the towering peaks, creating postcard-worthy photos and a sense of achievement early on. The hike from Soraypampa to Humantay is about 2 hours, making it a manageable warm-up before settling in for a hearty lunch and a relaxing afternoon at the basecamp Salkantaypampa, where views of the snowy Salkantay peak are simply unforgettable.

The next day ramps up the adventure as you ascend to the Salkantay Pass at 4600 meters, the highest point of the trek. While the altitude can challenge even seasoned hikers, you’ll be rewarded with sweeping vistas that reveal the rugged beauty of the Andes. The day continues into lush high jungle territory, full of bromeliads and orchids—an incredible contrast to the icy glaciers seen earlier. We appreciated how the guides kept the group moving at a comfortable pace, emphasizing safety and enjoyment.

Day 2: Mountain Passes and Jungle Transitions

The morning begins with coca tea—an energizer in high-altitude regions—followed by a trek that takes us over the Salkantay Pass. The journey offers dramatic scenery and the chance to see local wildlife and flora. Reaching the pass at 4600 meters is a proud moment, and the optional photo stops help capture the grandeur of the landscape.

Descending into the high jungle, you’ll notice a transformation in scenery—large trees with sprawling arms, streams full of bromeliads and orchids, and a cooler, more humid climate. The guides make this part engaging, sharing insights on the local ecosystems and Inca heritage. The day’s pace is steady, and the camp at Wayrac Machaq provides a peaceful spot to relax after a full day of hiking.

Day 3: Coffee, Ziplining, and Local Culture

Day 3 is a delightful mix of activities. The morning trek through cloud forest leads you to Lucmabamba, a coffee-growing area. We loved the Coffee Experience, where you can learn about coffee processing and sample fresh brews—an aromatic highlight that adds a special local flavor to the trip. The landscape is lush, dotted with rivers and waterfalls, making every step visually engaging.

Later, the ziplining activity (available at an extra cost) offers an adrenaline rush with views of the valley below. For those interested in local culture, visiting coffee plantations provides a chance to see traditional farming methods and connect with the community.

If you’re up for a relaxing break, the nearby Cocalmayo hot springs are just a short trip away, offering a soothing dip after a day of activity. This optional activity is not included but can be arranged, adding extra relaxation to your adventure.

Day 4: Toward Machu Picchu — Mirador de Llactapata and Aguas Calientes

The fourth day is all about getting closer to Machu Picchu. After breakfast, you hike to the Mirador de Llactapata, a viewpoint with panoramic views of the famed Inca site and surrounding mountains. From here, you’ll get a sense of the scale and beauty of Machu Picchu, which is a special moment for many travelers.

The walk downhill to Hydroelectric for lunch is scenic and relatively relaxed, after which you hike another three hours into Aguas Calientes—a lively town filled with shops, cafes, and energy before the big reveal. Spending the night in a hotel here offers a comfortable break before the early morning visit to Machu Picchu.

Day 5: Machu Picchu — The Grand Finale

The final day starts early with a bus ride up to Machu Picchu at sunrise. We loved the way arriving early gave us a peaceful glimpse of this world-famous site before the crowds arrived. Your guide will take you through the highlights, sharing stories and insights into Inca history, architecture, and sacred sites. If you’ve booked optional adds like Huayna Picchu or Mountain Machu Picchu, this is your opportunity—they require separate tickets.

After exploring, you’ll hop on the train back to Cusco, ending a journey packed with adventure, natural beauty, and cultural discovery. The entire experience is streamlined and well-organized, thanks to the professionalism of Conde Travel.

Logistics, Value, and Practical Tips

This tour’s all-inclusive setup is a major plus—meals, entrance fees, camping gear, and transport are covered, making it easier to focus on enjoying the trek. The use of campsites and a hotel provides a nice balance of rustic authenticity and comfort. The group size, capped at 12, ensures personalized attention and the chance to forge connections.

The price of $510 might seem steep, but considering the comprehensive package—including a professional guide, all meals, equipment, and entrance fees—it offers good value. We appreciated the quality of food, especially the hearty dinners after long days, and the knowledgeable guides who made complex terrain accessible and fun.

Travelers should plan for long days of hiking, often 8-10 hours, so packing light but effectively—layered clothing, sturdy shoes, sunblock, insect repellent—is essential. Weather can vary, and altitude is a factor, but guides are attentive to safety, and the scenery makes every step worthwhile.

Authentic Experiences and Genuine Insights

Feedback from travelers highlights the knowledgeable guides like Jhimmy and Carlos as a major highlight. Their passion and care shine through, making the journey more meaningful. Many reviews mention the delicious food, often described as “excellent,” which is impressive considering the remote locations.

Participants also praise the stunning views—from glacier lakes to jungle landscapes—and the ability to see parts of Peru rarely visited by travelers. The combination of natural wonders and cultural encounters creates a well-rounded experience.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This trek is ideal for adventurous travelers with a good fitness level who want to see Peru’s natural beauty without the crowds of the Inca Trail. It suits those eager to explore diverse ecosystems, from high mountain passes to lush jungles, while enjoying guided insights into Inca history and local life. If you’re comfortable camping and hiking for several hours, you’ll find this experience both challenging and rewarding.

It’s also a great choice for those who value all-inclusive convenience—meals, entrance fees, equipment, and transport—so you can focus solely on enjoying the landscapes and culture.

FAQs

How physically demanding is the trek?
The trek involves several long days of hiking, with some days reaching altitudes of 4600 meters. It’s suited for those with a good fitness level who can handle hikes of 8-10 hours, often on uneven terrain.

Are meals included?
Yes, all meals—breakfast, lunch, and dinner—are included for the duration of the tour, providing nourishing options after strenuous days. Breakfast on the first day and meals on the last day are not included.

What is the accommodation like?
You’ll stay three nights at campsites with camping gear provided, including a sleeping bag, and one night in a hotel in Aguas Calientes for comfort before visiting Machu Picchu.

Is transportation organized?
Yes, transportation from Cusco to the trailhead, to Machu Picchu, and back to Cusco is included, ensuring smooth logistics throughout.

Can I visit Huayna Picchu or Mountain Machu Picchu?
Not included in the standard package but can be arranged separately through additional tickets.

Is this tour suitable for children or elderly travelers?
Due to the physical demands and high altitudes, it’s best suited for travelers with good physical fitness. It may not be ideal for very young children or those with mobility issues.

What should I pack?
Bring strong walking shoes, layered clothing, rain gear, sun protection, insect repellent, a camera, and a small backpack for daily essentials.

How far in advance should I book?
On average, travelers book about 59 days ahead, so plan early to secure your spot on this popular trek.

Final Thoughts

The Salkantay Trek Premium 5D/4N provides a compelling alternative to the bustling Inca Trail, with fewer crowds and more diverse landscapes. You’ll love the expert guides, the stunning scenery, and the authentic cultural experiences along the way. It’s a well-organized, immersive adventure that balances physical challenge with natural beauty and cultural depth.

This tour is best suited for active travelers who crave a more personal and scenic trek, and who are prepared for the demands of high-altitude hiking and camping. If you’re looking for a memorable journey that combines adventure, comfort, and authentic encounters, this trek could be just what you need for a truly unforgettable trip to Peru.

Experience Provider: Conde Travel
Contact: +51984800095 | [email protected]