Salkantay trekking is an unforgettable experience for any nature and adventure lover. This alternative route to the Inca Trail takes you through impressive landscapes of snow-capped mountains, green valleys, and crystal-clear lagoons.
Rated by National Geographic as one of the 20 best hikes in the world, the 5-day Salkantay trek is more than a route to the iconic Inca citadel of Machu Picchu — it immerses you in Peru’s diverse landscapes, from imposing glacial peaks to the lush Amazon rainforest.
Your adventure begins at the stunning Humantay Lagoon, ascending to 4,700 m near the impressive Salkantay peak with sweeping panoramic views. As you descend toward the Amazon, you will pass through exotic fruit plantations and coffee fields, and taste the freshest local coffee. The trek includes the lesser-traveled Llactapata Inca Trail, offering a unique view of Machu Picchu before arriving at the world-renowned archaeological site.
Exclusive accommodation options include the Quiswarniyoc mountain camp, cozy cabins, and glass domes set in nature. Enjoy gourmet local cuisine and expert guides who will share detailed insights into the region’s history and natural wonders.
The day before starting the 5-day Salkantay Trek, an informational meeting takes place. You will meet your guide and fellow group members, and receive key information including technical trekking details, exact pick-up schedules, printed train and Machu Picchu entry tickets, and instructions for the duffel bag (up to 7 kg of personal items, carried by horses).
Hotel pick-ups in Cusco between 4:30–5:00 a.m. Depart for Mollepata (~2 hrs), where a hearty breakfast is included. Continue by car to Soraypampa (1 hr), where you meet the arriero team and horses. The hike from Soraypampa (3,900 m) ascends to Humantay Lagoon at 4,200 m — approximately 2 hours total. After ~1–1.5 hours at the lagoon, descend to Quiswarniyoc camp (arrival ~2:00 p.m.). Lunch, rest, and free afternoon to explore the area and enjoy views of Salkantay. Hot dinner at 6:00 p.m., followed by a briefing for Day 2.
Wake-up tea at 5:00 a.m. Breakfast at 5:30 a.m. The hike to the Salkantay Pass — the highest point of the trek at 4,700 m — begins at 6:00 a.m. and takes 3–3.5 hrs. Spend 30–45 minutes at the summit enjoying views and an optional Apu offering ritual. Descend 2 hours to the lunch spot at Wayracmachay. Continue descending 2.5–3 hours to Chawllay camp (2,900 m), transitioning from the Andes into the Amazon region.
Wake-up tea at 5:30 a.m. Breakfast at 6:00 a.m. Hike begins at 6:30 a.m. — a 5-hour mostly flat walk through the Santa Teresa Valley. Arrive in Lucmabamba for a coffee farm tour with a local family, tasting renowned Santa Teresa coffee. Lunch at camp. Optional afternoon visit to the Santa Teresa thermal baths (~40 soles additional, including transport and entry).
Breakfast at 6:30 a.m. Hike begins at 7:00 a.m. — a 3-hour ascent along an original Inca path to the Llactapata archaeological site, from which you get a unique view of Machu Picchu, Wayna Picchu, and the surrounding mountains. Descend 2 hours to the Hidroeléctrica station for lunch at a local restaurant. Walk 3 hours along the railway to Aguas Calientes. Guide-led dinner at a local restaurant at 7:00 p.m. and briefing for Machu Picchu day.
Wake up at 4:00 a.m. for breakfast. Begin hike to Machu Picchu at 4:30 a.m. (~1.5 hrs: 30 min flat trail + 1 hr of stone steps). Alternatively, take the bus from Aguas Calientes (departs from 5:30 a.m., ~25 min, $12). Arrive at the Machu Picchu gate by 6:00 a.m. Present entry tickets and original passport. Proceed to the upper section for iconic photos, then join a 2.5-hour expert guided tour. 30 minutes of free exploration time after the tour (max 3-hour total visit per park regulations).
Return options: by car (3-hr hike to Hidroeléctrica, car to Cusco ~6 hrs, arriving ~10 p.m.) or by train (2:30 or 3:30 p.m. from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo, then bus to Cusco, arriving ~6:30 p.m.).
