Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu 5 Days

The Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu is a renowned 5-day hiking adventure that promises an unparalleled experience for outdoor enthusiasts. Traversing through diverse Andean landscapes, from snow-capped peaks to lush cloud forests, this captivating trek blends adventure, culture, and the opportunity to explore the iconic Inca citadel. Hikers will be rewarded with breathtaking vistas, interactions with local communities, and the discovery of Inca ruins, making it a must-consider option for those seeking a physical challenge and a deeper connection with the natural and cultural wonders of Peru. But the real question is, what can one expect from this extraordinary journey?

Key Points

• The Salkantay Trek is a 5-day hiking adventure through diverse Andean ecosystems, culminating in a guided tour of the iconic Machu Picchu ruins.
• The trek begins with an ascent to Soraypampa camp, including a visit to the stunning Humantay Lake, and reaches the challenging Salkantay Pass at 4,650m.
• The trek then descends through the lush Santa Teresa Valley, offering glimpses of local life and opportunities to sample fresh produce from coffee plantations and fruit orchards.
• On the fourth day, trekkers explore the lesser-known Inca ruins of Llactapata, which offer panoramic views of Machu Picchu, before reaching the town of Aguas Calientes.
• The final day involves an early hike to Machu Picchu for a guided tour of the architectural wonders and cultural significance of the iconic Inca citadel.

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Overview of the Salkantay Trek

Spanning a diverse range of ecosystems, from the towering Andean peaks to the lush tropical forests, the Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu is a 5-day hiking adventure that National Geographic has hailed as one of the top treks in the world.

This epic journey offers a perfect blend of adventure, culture, and a guided tour of the iconic Machu Picchu.

Traversing through stunning landscapes, hikers will be treated to breathtaking views, opportunities to interact with local communities, and the chance to explore the ancient Inca ruins.

Whether you’re seeking a physical challenge or a deeper connection with the natural and cultural wonders of Peru, the Salkantay Trek delivers an unforgettable experience.

Itinerary for the 5-Day Trek

The 5-day Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu begins with a pickup from Cusco, followed by a drive to Mollepata where hikers start their ascent to the Soraypampa camp and visit the stunning Lake Humantay.

On Day 2, trekkers climb to the Salkantay Pass at 4,650m before descending to the Colpapampa camp.

The following day takes them through the Santa Teresa Valley to the Lucmabamba camp.

Day 4 includes a hike to the Llactapata archaeological site and arrival at Aguas Calientes.

On the final day, hikers rise early to reach Machu Picchu (2,400m) for a guided tour before returning to Cusco.

Day 1: Mollepata to Soraypampa

The Salkantay Trek begins with a pickup from Cusco, where hikers are transported to the village of Mollepata to start their ascent.

From there, they’ll hike to the Soraypampa camp, passing by the stunning Lake Humantay.

The trek starts at an elevation of 3,400 meters and climbs steadily through diverse ecosystems, from Andean peaks to lush forests.

Along the way, hikers will be treated to breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and glaciers.

This first day sets the tone for the incredible journey ahead, offering a glimpse of the natural beauty and cultural richness that await on the Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu.

Day 2: Salkantay Pass to Colpapampa

On the second day, hikers tackle the challenging ascent to the Salkantay Pass, the high point of the trek at 4,650 meters. From the pass, they’ll descend to the Colpapampa camp, surrounded by lush, tropical vegetation – a stark contrast to the rugged, snow-capped peaks they just traversed. The day’s hike promises stunning vistas, a true test of endurance, and a transition from the alpine ecosystem to the lush, verdant forests below.

Elevation Gained	Distance Covered
1,000 meters	12 kilometers
Terrain	Key Stops
Steep, rocky ascent; gradual descent	Salkantay Pass, Colpapampa camp

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Day 3: Santa Teresa Valley Hike

After tackling the challenging Salkantay Pass, hikers now descend into the lush Santa Teresa Valley, a scenic transition from the rugged alpine terrain to the verdant tropical forests below.

The trail winds through quaint villages, offering a glimpse into the daily lives of the local people. Trekkers will pass by coffee plantations and fruit orchards, with the opportunity to sample fresh produce along the way.

The hike through this picturesque valley is a welcome respite after the previous day’s strenuous ascent. Arriving at the Lucmabamba camp, hikers can look forward to a well-deserved rest and the chance to explore the surrounding area before continuing their journey towards Machu Picchu.

Day 4: Llactapata and Aguas Calientes

Leaving the Lucmabamba camp behind, hikers now set their sights on the Llactapata archaeological site, a lesser-known Inca ruin that offers a unique perspective on Machu Picchu. The hike to Llactapata takes around 3 hours, climbing through lush cloud forests before reaching the site. Once there, explorers can wander the ancient ruins and marvel at the stunning views of Machu Picchu in the distance.

Llactapata Features
Intact Inca ruins	Panoramic Machu Picchu views	Cloud forest surroundings	Guided tour included

From Llactapata, the trek continues downhill to the town of Aguas Calientes, the gateway to Machu Picchu. Hikers can relax and prepare for their early morning hike to the iconic lost city the following day.

Day 5: Machu Picchu Exploration

Eager hikers rise early to commence their ascent to the legendary ruins of Machu Picchu, the primary objective of their arduous trek.

An experienced guide leads the group through the gates, imparting insights into the architectural wonders and cultural significance of the Inca citadel as they explore its captivating plazas, terraces, and temples.

Visitors marvel at the breathtaking vistas afforded by the site’s lofty location, surrounded by rugged Andean peaks and verdant cloud forests.

The group meanders through the ruins, discovering hidden corners and imagining the vibrant past of this remarkable archaeological wonder.

After the guided tour, hikers have free time to revisit their favorite spots before descending to Aguas Calientes and returning to Cusco, concluding their unforgettable Salkantay Trek.

Inclusions and Exclusions

The Salkantay Trek package includes a range of services and amenities to ensure a seamless and comfortable experience for hikers. Private transportation, professional cooking staff, camping equipment, and a dedicated porter are all provided. Entrance tickets to key sites, such as Machu Picchu, are also included, as is the service of a knowledgeable bilingual guide. Hiking poles are made available to help navigate the trail.

While the majority of meals are covered, the first breakfast and last lunch in Aguas Calientes aren’t included. Plus, hikers will need to pay the entrance fee for the Humantay Lake hike separately.

Certain restrictions also apply, making the trek unsuitable for those with specific health conditions.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Pet on the Trek?

Unfortunately, pets are not allowed on this trek. The trail conditions and camping environment are not suitable for pets, and their presence could disrupt the experience for other hikers. For the safety and enjoyment of all, only registered participants are permitted.

Is There an Option for a Helicopter Transfer?

The Salkantay Trek does not offer a helicopter transfer option. Travelers must hike the multi-day trek or arrange private transportation to reach Machu Picchu. Wheelchair users and those with mobility issues may find the trek challenging.

Can I Extend the Trek Beyond 5 Days?

Yes, travelers can extend the trek beyond 5 days. Many operators offer longer itineraries that allow more time for hiking, exploration, and culture along the Salkantay route to Machu Picchu. Additional days can be added to the standard 5-day trek.

Do I Need to Bring My Own Hiking Gear?

The trek includes all the necessary camping and hiking equipment, so you don’t need to bring your own gear. The provided gear, along with meals and a guide, is part of the tour package.

Is There a Minimum Group Size Requirement?

The tour doesn’t have a minimum group size requirement. You can book this trek as a solo traveler or with a small group. The itinerary and inclusions apply regardless of the group size.

Recap

The Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu offers an unforgettable adventure. Trekkers will be immersed in diverse ecosystems, interact with local communities, and explore Inca ruins.

The journey blends physical challenge with cultural discovery, making it an ideal choice for those seeking an authentic Peruvian experience. With breathtaking views and a guided tour of the iconic Machu Picchu, this trek is a true highlight of any visit to Peru.

You can check availability for your dates here: