5 Day Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu from Cusco

Day 1: Cusco – Mollepata – Challacancha – Soraypampa – Humantay Lake – Camp

1. Salkantay Trail
   3h
   We begin the journey early in the morning, leaving Cusco and heading through the scenic Sacred Valley. Snowy peaks and rolling hills accompany us on the drive to Mollepata, where we stop for a hearty traditional breakfast.
2. 3h · Admission ticket included
   Continuing by vehicle, we arrive at Challacancha, the starting point of our trek. As we hike, we follow an ancient Inca water canal through open highlands. Along the way, we may spot llamas grazing peacefully. The path gradually opens up to a broad plain, Soraypampa where we set up our first camp.
3. Humantay Lake
   8h · Admission ticket included
   In the afternoon, we take a side hike to the stunning Humantay Lake, with its striking turquoise waters nestled beneath glacial peaks. After enjoying the view and taking photos, we return to camp for a warm dinner and a night under a starlit Andean sky.

Day 2: Soraypampa – Salkantay Pass – Huayracmachay – Chaullay – Collpapampa

1. 5h
   At the pass, the highest point of the trek, we pause to take in the panorama, with Salkantay Mountain dominating the landscape. After a well-deserved break, we descend through rocky paths that soon give way to green vegetation.
2. 6h
   A hot lunch awaits us in Huayracmachay before continuing into the cloud forest. The trail winds through misty valleys and increasingly lush scenery until we reach the campsite near the village of Collpapampa, where the cool mountain air turns warmer.

Day 3: Collpapampa – La Playa – Lucmabamba – Jungle Domes

1. 6h
   We wake up to the sound of the river and birdsong. The trail leads us through dense tropical vegetation, alongside the Salkantay River. We cross wooden bridges and pass through natural tunnels of jungle foliage, spotting orchids and exotic plants along the way.
   
   We pass rural communities and agricultural terraces as we make way to La Playa. Here, locals grow bananas, avocados, and passion fruits. We'll stop along the way to sample fresh fruit from the region.
2. 2h · Admission ticket included
   In Lucmabamba, we join a local coffee-growing family who will guide us through the coffee-making process, from bean to brew. We’ll enjoy a fresh cup of organic coffee before settling into the jungle domes for the night. Optional hot springs nearby offer a relaxing treat to end the day.

Day 4: Lucmabamba – Llactapata – Aobamba – Hidroeléctrica – Aguas Calientes

1. 4h
   Today we follow an original Inca trail that climbs through cloud forest and farmlands. After a steady uphill walk, we reach the archaeological site of Llactapata. From this unique vantage point, we catch a distant but stunning view of Machu Picchu.
2. 3h
   We explore the ruins and enjoy panoramic views before descending into the Aobamba Valley. The trail winds through lush forest, eventually bringing us to Hidroeléctrica, where we stop for lunch.
3. Aguas Calientes
   3h
   In the afternoon, we walk alongside the train tracks, a peaceful stretch surrounded by dramatic cliffs and thick jungle. By late afternoon, we arrive in Aguas Calientes and check into a comfortable hotel.

Day 5: Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu – Ollantaytambo – Returning to Cusco

1. Aguas Calientes
   30m
   We wake early to catch one of the first buses to Machu Picchu, ensuring we arrive in time to witness the first light of day illuminating the ancient citadel. As the mist lifts and the sun paints the stone walls gold, the magic of this sacred site comes to life.
2. Machupicchu
   2h · Admission ticket included
   As the sun rises over the citadel, Machu Picchu emerges in golden light, revealing its timeless beauty. During a guided tour, we’ll explore its most iconic temples, terraces, and ceremonial sites. After the tour, you’ll have free time to wander at your own pace or opt for an additional hike to Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain (subject to availability and prior permits).
3. Cusco
   6h
   We descend back to Aguas Calientes for lunch before boarding the train to Ollantaytambo. A private transfer will bring us back to Cusco in the evening, marking the end of the unforgettable adventure.

Pickup details

We will leave Cusco early in the morning, traveling through the scenic landscapes of the Sacred Valley. Rolling hills and snow capped peaks will frame our journey. In Mollepata, we’ll enjoy a traditional breakfast to start the adventure. A short drive will take us to Challacancha, where our trekking path begins.

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