5 Days Salkantay Trekking Adventure to Machu Picchu

Day 1: Cusco - Mollepata - Challakancha - Soyrococha

1. Cusco
   3h
   Your Salkantay Trek Peru adventure begins at dawn. With an early hotel pick-up at around 4:30 AM, you will embark on a scenic drive through the serene Andean landscape towards Mollepata. The journey showcases breathtaking views of the highlands and quaint villages before reaching Challakancha, the starting point of your hike.
2. 3h · Admission ticket included
   In Challakancha, we'll pause to enjoy a hearty breakfast, energizing you for the adventure ahead. From here, we'll embark on a captivating 4-hour trek to Soraypampa, where you'll be immersed in the natural beauty of the Andes. As you walk through picturesque valleys and gaze at towering peaks, the untouched wilderness will inspire you. Upon arriving in Soraypampa, we'll take a break for lunch, providing a well-deserved rest.
3. Salkantay Trail
   3h · Admission ticket included
   After recharging, we'll resume the hike for another three hours until we reach Soyrococha. This campsite, located near the base of the majestic Salkantay Mountain, offers mesmerizing views of the surrounding peaks and valleys. After setting up camp, you can unwind and soak in the tranquil atmosphere as the day's exertions melt away, leaving you ready for the next chapter of your Salkantay journey.

Day 2: Soroycocha - Salkantay Pass - Chaullay

1. 3h · Admission ticket included
   Today, you'll rise early to greet the stunning surroundings of Soyrococha. After fueling up with a hearty breakfast, you'll need all your energy for the thrilling challenge ahead—ascending the iconic Salkantay Pass. This ascent, one of the most exhilarating segments of the trek, will reward your efforts with awe-inspiring panoramic views at the highest point of the journey. The rugged, snow-capped peaks will stand proudly before you, creating unforgettable moments at the summit.
2. 2h · Admission ticket included
   Once you've conquered the pass, you'll begin your descent towards Wayraqmachay. Here, amidst the tranquility of the Andean wilderness, we’ll stop for a well-deserved lunch break, giving you time to relax and take in the surroundings.
3. 4h · Admission ticket included
   Following lunch, the trek continues with a gradual descent to our next campsite. This section of the trek will take about four more hours as you pass through even more breathtaking landscapes, transitioning from the high-altitude terrain to a more lush and verdant environment. Eventually, you'll arrive at Chaullay, where we’ll set up camp for the night. Should Chaullay be unavailable, the nearby Ccollpapampa campsite will be our alternative.

Day 3: Chaullay - Lucmabamba

1. 4h · Admission ticket included
   Our destination for the day is Lucmabamba, a serene campsite nestled in the heart of the forest. Here, we’ll pause to savor a well-deserved lunch, surrounded by the tranquility of nature. Afterward, you'll have time to rest and explore the area before settling into camp.
2. Salkantay Trail
   5h · Admission ticket included
   In the afternoon, we’ll take a special excursion to a local coffee plantation. Here, you’ll immerse yourself in the rich culture of Peruvian coffee production. Learn about the artisanal process that goes into cultivating and roasting coffee beans, and enjoy a gourmet coffee demonstration. Savor the flavors of a freshly brewed cup of coffee, made from beans grown just a stone’s throw away.
   
   As the evening sets in, we’ll return to camp for a relaxing happy hour before dinner. With most of the trek behind you, it’s a perfect time to unwind and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere. Reflect on your accomplishments so far, surrounded by the beauty of the jungle.

Day 4: Lucmabamba - Aguas Calientes

1. Mirador de Llactapata
   4h
   We’ll begin our day with a nourishing breakfast to prepare for the last leg of the adventure. Our morning starts with a three-hour hike up to the historic site of Llactapata, a lesser-known but equally fascinating archaeological treasure. Upon reaching the ruins, you'll be treated to a guided tour that unveils the significance of this ancient Inca site. From Llactapata, you’ll catch your first breathtaking glimpse of Machu Picchu from a distance, a tantalizing preview of the wonder that awaits.
2. 4h
   After exploring Llactapata, we’ll embark on a two-hour descent through the lush forest to the Hydroelectric Station. Along the way, you’ll traverse rich landscapes filled with diverse flora and fauna, gradually making your way down to the valley below. Upon arrival at the station, we’ll take a well-earned break and enjoy lunch before the next phase of our journey.
3. Aguas Calientes
   4h
   From the Hydroelectric Station, we’ll board a train for a short, scenic ride to the town of Aguas Calientes. The journey, though brief—lasting just 30 minutes—offers stunning views of the Urubamba River and surrounding mountains. Aguas Calientes, often called the gateway to Machu Picchu, is a charming town where you’ll find a mix of local culture and modern comforts.
   
   We’ll arrive in Aguas Calientes with time to spare, so you may choose to visit the town’s famous hot springs, perfect for soaking away any lingering soreness from the trek. In the evening, we’ll come together for a celebratory final dinner, reflecting on the incredible journey we’ve shared. Your accommodations for the night will be in a comfortable 3-star hotel, where you can enjoy a hot shower and a well-deserved rest, preparing for the ultimate highlight of your trek—the visit to Machu Picchu the next day.

Day 5: Aguas Calientes - Machu Picchu - Return to Cusco

1. Aguas Calientes
   3h
   The day begins early with breakfast as we prepare for the most anticipated part of your journey: the visit to Machu Picchu. After breakfast, we’ll board the official bus that will take us up the winding roads to the citadel. The excitement builds as we ascend towards the ancient ruins of Machu Picchu, nestled high in the Andes.
2. Machupicchu cusco
   3h · Admission ticket included
   Once we arrive, a guided tour will lead you through the most iconic and historically significant areas of this awe-inspiring archaeological site. You'll gain deep insights into the history and significance of Machu Picchu, learning about its construction, the mysteries surrounding its abandonment, and its rediscovery. As you walk through the terraces, temples, and plazas, you’ll be transported back in time, imagining what life was like during the height of the Inca Empire.
3. Ollantaytambo
   4h
   By midday, we’ll return to Aguas Calientes. The afternoon is yours to relax or continue exploring the town. Later in the day, we’ll reconvene at the train station to catch our train back to Cusco. The scenic ride will take us through the Sacred Valley, allowing you one last look at the breathtaking landscapes that have accompanied you throughout your journey.
4. Cusco
   2h
   Upon arrival at the Ollantaytambo train station, a private transport will be waiting to take us back to Cusco. As you return to the city, you’ll carry with you the memories of this unforgettable adventure, filled with the beauty, history, and culture of Peru.

Pickup details

Please wait for our guide in the lobby of your hotel. He will greet you and escort you to the transportation for your tour.

• Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
• Not recommended for pregnant travelers
• Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
• Travelers should have a high level of physical fitness