From Cusco: 5-Day Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu & Visit

Embarking on the Salkantay Trek from Cusco promises an unforgettable 5-day adventure. Trekkers will be captivated by the diverse landscapes, from the majestic Salkantay Pass to the lush tropical jungles. Along the way, they’ll enjoy rich cultural experiences, including visits to the Llactapata ruins and the awe-inspiring Machu Picchu. With meals, accommodation, and professional guides included, this trek offers convenience and flexibility, ensuring a seamless journey. But the true allure lies in the breathtaking vistas and the sense of accomplishment that comes with conquering this iconic route. Are you ready to embark on a transformative experience?

Key Points

• 5-day adventure from Cusco to Machu Picchu, with a Salkantay Trek as the main highlight, priced from $662.32 per person.
• Trek includes a challenging ascent to the Salkantay Pass at 4600m, followed by a descent through tropical jungle and visits to Inca ruins.
• Accommodation in two-person tents, with meals, transportation, and a guided tour of Machu Picchu included in the package.
• Flexible booking with option to reserve now and pay later, and cancellation allowed up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
• Limited to 15 participants, with tours available in English or Spanish.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Overview and Pricing

The Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu is a 5-day adventure that starts from Cusco, offering a flexible booking option with a price ranging from $662.32 per person.

Travelers can reserve now and pay later, and they can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

The trek lasts for 5 days and is limited to 15 participants, with the option to have the tour in English or Spanish.

This comprehensive trek provides an immersive experience, allowing adventurers to explore the Inca ruins, trek along the original Inca Trail, and witness the breathtaking landscapes of the Salkantay mountain range.

Trek Itinerary

This 5-day trek begins with a pickup at 5:00 am, traveling from Cusco to Mollepata.

After a 3.5-hour walk to Sicllapata, hikers enjoy lunch with views of Humantay and Salkantay mountains. The trek then continues to Soraypampa, the highest campsite at 4000m/12750ft.

On day two, the group climbs to the Salkantay Pass at 4600m/9800ft, offering spectacular views. The descent leads through the Amazon jungle to Colcapampa at 3000m/9800ft.

Day three features a 6-hour hike through tropical jungle, crossing rivers and streams, before reaching the La Playa campsite at 2500m/8350ft.

The final two days include visits to Llactapata ruins and Machu Picchu.

Day 1: Mollepata – Soraypampa

The trek begins with a 5:00 am pickup from the traveler’s hotel in Cusco.

The group travels to Mollepata, the starting point of the hike. From there, it’s a 3.5-hour walk to Sicllapata for lunch, with stunning views of the Humantay and Salkantay mountains along the way.

After refueling, the trek continues to Soraypamapa, the highest campsite at 4000 meters (12,750 feet) above sea level.

This first day lays the foundation for the challenging but rewarding journey ahead, as the trekkers climb towards the Salkantay Pass, the high point of the trek.

Day 2: Soraypampa – Qolpapampa

Longest trek day awaits the trekkers as they gradually climb to the Salkantay Pass, the highest point of the journey at 4600 meters (15,100 feet).

The ascent offers spectacular views of the surrounding Andean peaks. Along the way, trekkers have the opportunity to:

1. Perform a ritual offering to the mountain spirits, as is the local custom.
2. Admire the awe-inspiring scenery of the Salkantay glacier and the Humantay Lake.
3. Spot native wildlife, including condors, if they’re lucky.

After reaching the pass, the group descends through the Amazon jungle, arriving at the Colcapampa campsite (3000m/9800ft) for the night.

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Day 3: Qolpapampa – The Beach

On the third day, trekkers face a 6-hour hike through the lush tropical jungle, crossing rivers and streams along the way.

They’ll be rewarded with stunning views of waterfalls and native flora. The day’s destination is the La Playa campsite (2500m/8350ft).

Trekkers have the option to visit the nearby hot springs, a chance to relax and soothe tired muscles after the challenging trek.

The path winds through the Amazon jungle, providing a contrast to the high-altitude scenery of the previous days.

This leg of the journey offers a chance to experience the diversity of the Peruvian landscape before reaching the final destination of Machu Picchu.

Day 4: The Beach – Llactapata – Hot Springs

From La Playa campsite, trekkers embark on a climb to Llactapata (2700m/8910ft), which offers their first glimpse of the iconic Machu Picchu.

The route leads them through lush jungle, crossing rivers and streams.

Once at Llactapata, they’re rewarded with:

1. Stunning vistas of the ancient Inca citadel nestled between mountain peaks.
2. A chance to explore the Inca ruins of Llactapata, which provide valuable historical insights.
3. A descent to the Hydroelectric Plant, where they enjoy a hearty lunch before continuing on to Aguas Calientes, the gateway to Machu Picchu.

After reaching Aguas Calientes, trekkers have the option to visit the rejuvenating hot springs before dinner and retiring for the night.

Day 5: Machu Picchu

Trekkers have the option to hike or take a bus from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu, the final destination of the 5-day Salkantay Trek.

Upon arrival, they’ll embark on a guided tour of the iconic Inca citadel, lasting approximately two hours. After the tour, trekkers can freely explore the ruins at their own pace.

The day concludes with a lunch in Aguas Calientes before boarding the expedition train back to Ollantaytambo and a bus to Cusco.

The Salkantay Trek offers an exceptional opportunity to witness the stunning beauty of the Andes and the grandeur of Machu Picchu, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the New Seven Wonders of the World.

Inclusions

The Salkantay Trek package includes an airport transfer to a hotel in Cusco, along with the services of a professional English-speaking guide.

The trek also provides:

1. Two-person tents and sleeping mattresses for the duration of the trek.
2. Meals including 4 breakfasts, 4 lunches, and 4 dinners, with vegetarian and special diet options available.
3. A weight allowance of 5 kg (10 lbs) per trekker, carried by horses, as well as a first aid kit and oxygen bottle.

The package covers round-trip transportation, with a bus ticket from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu, an overnight stay in Aguas Calientes, and an expedition train back to Ollantaytambo, followed by a bus to Cusco.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Altitude Range Along the Trek?

The trek takes trekkers from an altitude of 4,000 meters (12,750 feet) at the Soraypampa campsite to a high point of 4,600 meters (15,100 feet) at the Salkantay Pass. The lowest point is 2,500 meters (8,350 feet) at the La Playa campsite.

Can I Use Hiking Poles During the Trek?

Hikers are allowed and encouraged to use hiking poles during the Salkantay Trek. Trekking poles can provide added stability and support, especially on the more challenging ascents and descents along the route.

Are There Any Age Restrictions for This Trek?

There are no age restrictions for this trek. Participants of all ages are welcome, though the trek is physically demanding and may not be suitable for young children or elderly individuals. The operator recommends considering one’s fitness level before booking.

Can I Store My Luggage in Cusco While Trekking?

Yes, travelers can store their luggage at the tour operator’s office in Cusco while they’re on the 5-day Salkantay Trek. This service is typically included in the trek package at no additional cost.

What Are the Dietary Options for Vegetarians/Vegans?

The trek offers vegetarian and special diet options for participants. Vegetarian meals are provided for all breakfasts, lunches, and dinners throughout the 5-day trek. Travelers can request these alternatives when booking the tour.

Recap

The 5-day Salkantay Trek from Cusco to Machu Picchu offers an unforgettable adventure filled with breathtaking views, rich cultural experiences, and professional guidance. Trekkers will journey through diverse landscapes, including the majestic Salkantay Pass and lush tropical jungles, before reaching the awe-inspiring Machu Picchu. With accommodation, meals, and a full refund policy included, this trek provides a seamless and convenient experience.

You can check if your dates are available here: