One of the world's best treks to Machu Picchu.
The Salkantay route combines snow-capped mountains, crystal-clear lakes, tropical forest, and ancient Inca trails over five unforgettable days in the heart of the Andes.
You will visit Humantay Lake, cross the imposing Salkantay Pass (4,650 m), descend into a tropical forest region with coffee plantations, and follow an Inca trail to Llactapata, catching your first distant glimpse of Machu Picchu.
Without the need for limited permits like the Inca Trail, Salkantay is the ultimate adventure for those seeking varied and dramatic landscapes—culminating with a guided visit to the citadel.
What makes this itinerary unique.
Humantay Lake and its turquoise waters right on the first day.
Salkantay Pass (4,650 m), at the foot of the sacred mountain.
Transition from snow-capped mountains to tropical forest.
Coffee trail and Andean communities in Lucmabamba.
Inca site of Llactapata, with views of Machu Picchu.
Comprehensive guided tour of Machu Picchu on the final day.
Day by day.
Drive to Mollepata and Soraypampa (3,900 m), the start of the trek. A 2-hour hike up to Humantay Lake, featuring turquoise waters formed by glacial melt. Return to the campsite.
The most demanding day: ascending to the Salkantay Pass (4,650 m), the highest point of the route, with spectacular views of the snow-capped peak. A long descent towards the tropical forest region, down to the Chaullay campsite.
A more relaxed hike through tropical vegetation, coffee plantations, and small Andean communities, learning about local artisanal coffee production all the way to Lucmabamba.
Hike along an ancient Inca trail to the site of Llactapata, offering the first panoramic view of Machu Picchu in the distance. Descend to the Hydroelectric plant and walk alongside the train tracks to Aguas Calientes, where we spend the night in a hotel.
Early ascent to Machu Picchu for an approximately 3-hour guided tour. Return to Aguas Calientes, free time for lunch, and tourist train to Ollantaytambo, followed by transport to Cusco.
Everything we take care of for you.
Inclusions
- Pre-trek briefing
- Tourist transport Cusco → Mollepata → Soraypampa
- Professional bilingual guide, chef, and support crew
- Camping equipment — 3 nights of camping
- 1 night in a hotel in Aguas Calientes with breakfast
- Meals during the trek
- Machu Picchu entrance fee and shuttle bus
- Return tourist train (Aguas Calientes → Ollantaytambo)
- First aid kit and 24/7 assistance
Not included
- Sleeping bag (rental USD 20) and trekking poles (rental USD 15)
- Breakfast on the first day and lunch/dinner on the last day
- Huayna Picchu entrance ticket (optional)
- Travel insurance (highly recommended)
- Additional drinks, tips, and personal expenses
Essential packing list.
- Original passport (mandatory — must match the one used for booking)
- Small daypack (up to 25L) for the trail days
- Layered clothing + windbreaker and thermal wear for the night
- Sturdy, well-broken-in trekking boots
- Rain jacket or poncho
- Cap/hat, sunscreen, and sunglasses
- Insect repellent
- Reusable water bottle and energy snacks
- Personal medication
- Cash in soles for tips and extra expenses
Important information
- A copy of your ID is required to issue permits and tickets.
- We recommend 2 to 3 days of acclimatization in Cusco before the trek.
- Good physical condition is required — please inform our team of any pre-existing medical conditions before booking.
- Travel insurance with coverage for trekking activities is highly recommended.
- Machu Picchu tickets are final and non-refundable (Ministry of Culture).
- Booking policy: 50% deposit and the remaining 50% due 15 days prior. Cancellations subject to a progressive fee schedule.
Frequent departures for this adventure — but book early.
The Salkantay trek does not require limited permits like the Inca Trail, but the Machu Picchu ticket for the final day does—and they sell out well in advance.
The best time to go is the dry season (May to September). Contact our team to align your dates, physical preparation, and logistics.
Common questions about this itinerary.
They offer different challenges. Salkantay has a higher peak (4,650 m) and longer stretches, but greater variety in landscapes. Both require good physical fitness and prior acclimatization.
Not for the trail itself. Only the Machu Picchu ticket for the final day depends on official availability—which is why we recommend booking in advance.
It includes 3 nights of camping with professional gear and 1 night in a hotel in Aguas Calientes, right before visiting Machu Picchu.
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