Classic Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu 5 days

ITINERARY

DAY 1: CUSCO – SORAYPAMPA – HUMANTAY LAKE – SALKANTAYPAMPA

This spectacular adventure begins at 4:30 a.m. with a pickup from your hotel in Cusco in private transportation. We’ll drive for about two hours to the picturesque town of Mollepata (2,900 m / 9,514 ft), where we’ll enjoy breakfast. Along the way, you’ll pass scenic views of mountains, small valleys, and traditional Andean villages, including the fertile Limatambo Valley — known for its avocado production thanks to its mild, tropical climate.

After breakfast, we’ll continue for another hour by car to Soraypampa (3,900 m / 12,795 ft), the starting point of our trek. Here, you’ll meet the horses and muleteers who will carry the luggage during the journey. Once everything is organized, we’ll begin the ascent to the stunning Humantay Lagoon (4,200 m / 13,779 ft), a hike that takes approximately 1.5 to 2 hours.

At the top, you’ll have time to enjoy the breathtaking turquoise waters of the lagoon, surrounded by the snow-capped peaks of the Andes. It’s the perfect spot to rest, take photos, and appreciate the natural beauty of this magical place.

After this memorable visit, we’ll descend back to Soraypampa (about 1.5 hours) where a hot lunch will be waiting. After a short rest or nap, we’ll continue hiking for about two hours to reach our campsite at Salkantaypampa (4,200 m / 13,779 ft). Along this stretch, you’ll enjoy constant views of the majestic Salkantay Mountain (6,200 m / 20,341 ft). Upon arrival, you’ll be welcomed with hot drinks, followed by a hearty and comforting dinner to end the day.

Meals included: Lunch, Afternoon Tea and Dinner
Accommodation: Camping facilities
Hiking time: 5–6 hours
Distance: 8 km / 4.970 miles
Trekking difficulty level: Moderate

DAY 2: SALKANTAYPAMPA – SALKANTAY PASS – WAYRACMACHAY – COLPAPAMPA

Our second day of hiking begins at 6:30 a.m. with tent service and a hot cup of coca tea — perfect for helping with the altitude. Afterward, you’ll enjoy a nutritious breakfast in our dining tent to prepare for the day ahead.

We start with a challenging 2.5-hour ascent to the Salkantay Pass (4,626 m / 15,177 ft), the highest point of the trek. From here, you’ll take in stunning views of the majestic Salkantay Mountain. At the summit, your guide will share insights into the region’s cultural and spiritual significance. You’ll also visit the nearby Salkantay Lagoon, located just beneath the mountain.

After this powerful experience, we begin our descent toward Wayracmachay (3,900 m / 12,795 ft), where we’ll take our lunch. From there, we continue descending into the lush cloud forest, part of the Machu Picchu National Park. The landscape changes dramatically, with vibrant flora and fauna — including orchids and tropical birds like hummingbirds — typical of the high jungle ecosystem. You’ll enjoy remarkable contrasts between towering glaciers and tropical greenery.

After another 3.5 hours of trekking, we arrive at our campsite in the small village of Colpapampa (2,900 m / 9,514 ft), home to local families. Upon arrival, you’ll have time to unwind with a hot shower, followed by some free time to enjoy hot drinks and snacks.

We’ll close the day with a relaxing evening, sipping hot chocolate, coffee, or tea before sitting down to a well-deserved dinner.

Difficulty Day: Challenging
Hiking distance: 16 kilometers
Maximum Altitude: 4,625–4,626 m a.s.l.
Minimum Altitude: 2,900 m a.s.l.
Hiking Time: 7–8 Hours

DAY 3: COLPAPAMPA – THE HOT SPRINGS – LUCMABAMBA

This day marks the halfway point of our adventure. We begin with a scenic hike to our next destination, Lucmabamba (2,000 m / 6,561 ft). Along the way, you’ll witness a variety of landscapes — from dramatic canyons and flowing rivers to plantations of corn, passion fruit, oranges, avocados, cacao, and coffee. You’ll also have the chance to spot different species of birds native to this lush region. We’ll arrive at our destination in time to relax and enjoy a well-earned lunch.

In the afternoon, we’ll visit a nearby coffee plantation. During this hands-on tour, you’ll learn about the cultivation and production of Peruvian coffee, which is gaining global recognition. You’ll walk through the coffee fields, learn about the different types of beans, and even pick some yourself. Then, you’ll roast, grind, and finally brew your own cup of fresh coffee — a truly unique and rewarding experience.

Around 3:00 p.m., we’ll take local transportation for approximately 45 minutes to Cocalmayo, where you can relax in natural hot springs surrounded by beautiful mountains. After soaking and unwinding, we return to the campsite to enjoy a delicious dinner made with fresh fruits and vegetables harvested locally.

Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Camping facilities
Hiking Time: 4–5 hours
Distance: 13 km / 8.7 Miles
Trekking difficulty level: Moderate

DAY 4: LUCMABAMBA – LLACTAPATA INCA RUINS – AGUAS CALIENTES

We continue our journey with a three-hour hike along a remote and ancient section of the Inca Trail, leading us to the Puncuyoc Pass. From this high vantage point, you’ll enjoy panoramic views of spectacular snow-capped peaks, including Pumasillo, Salkantay, and Veronica. Along the way, take in the lush scenery of fruit plantations, deep valleys, and dramatic Andean landscapes.

Our next destination is the Inca archaeological site of Llactapata, where you’ll be treated to a breathtaking view of the Machu Picchu Citadel from across the valley, framed by the Aobamba Canyon and the majestic peaks of Machu Picchu and Huayna Picchu.

From Llactapata, we descend for approximately 2.5 hours to the Hydroelectric Station, which serves as one of Cusco’s main sources of renewable energy. Nearby, we’ll stop for a delicious and well-deserved lunch.

The final stretch of your unforgettable Salkantay adventure is a scenic hike along the Urubamba River through Machu Picchu National Park. You’ll walk beneath the lush canopy of the subtropical rainforest, surrounded by orchids, bromeliads, and moss-covered trees. The anticipation builds as you draw closer to the legendary Machu Picchu.

Upon arrival in Aguas Calientes, you’ll check into your hotel and enjoy some time to rest before we meet for a celebratory dinner at a local restaurant.

Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
3* Accommodation: Ferré Machu Picchu (included)
Hiking time: 8–9 hours
Distance: 14.5 km / 8.699 Miles
Trekking difficulty level: Moderate

DAY 5: AGUAS CALIENTES – MACHU PICCHU – AND BACK TO CUSCO

Today’s the day — Machu Picchu! After an early breakfast at the hotel, we’ll board one of the first buses to Machu Picchu to witness the magical sunrise over the ancient citadel — an unforgettable experience you won’t want to miss.

Upon arrival, your expert guide will lead you on a comprehensive 2.5 hours tour of the site, exploring the most significant and iconic areas of the Machu Picchu Citadel. You’ll learn about the history, architecture, and mysteries of this UNESCO World Heritage Site while enjoying breathtaking views and plenty of photo opportunities.

Once you’ve fully immersed yourself in the wonders of Machu Picchu, take the bus back down to Aguas Calientes for lunch (not included). Depending on your train departure time, you may also have time to explore the town, shop for souvenirs, visit the local museum, or relax in the natural hot springs.

In the afternoon, you’ll board the Expedition Train to Ollantaytambo (departing at either 2:55 PM or 3:20 PM), following the scenic route along the Urubamba River. This stretch offers dramatic canyon views, whitewater sections, and glimpses of remote archaeological sites tucked into the valley walls.

Upon arrival in Ollantaytambo, your driver will be waiting to take you back to your hotel in Cusco in our private vehicle. You’ll arrive in Cusco around 7:00 PM, filled with memories of a truly extraordinary adventure.

Meal included: Breakfast only
Trekking difficulty: Easy