Instant confirmationYour booking is confirmed right away
TicketMobile or paper ticket accepted
LanguagesEnglish, Spanish
Group sizeUp to 15 travelers
Pickup offeredSee the meeting and pickup details below
Overview
Our Salkantay Trek is designed for adventurers of all ages, from young explorers to senior travelers with a thirst for discovery.
We provide an all-inclusive experience, featuring high-quality camping equipment, delicious meals, and expert local guides who ensure a safe and memorable journey. Plus, our customer service is available 24/7, offering assistance at every stage of the trek.
This is an epic expedition, blending the thrill of the Andes, the magic of the jungle, and the mystery of Machu Picchu. If you love nature, history, and adventure, this is the journey for you.
What's included
Briefing session before the trek with the guide at the office in Cusco
3 camping nights under the stars + 1 night in a comfortable hostel (private rooms for couples)
Professional bilingual guide (English & Spanish)
Pack horse support (carries up to 5 kg of your personal gear for the first 3 days)
High-quality camping gear
Return to Cusco by minivan on the last day
Lunch
Dinner
Breakfast
Machu Picchu ticket (book at least 2 months ahead or get alternative options with us)
Early pick up from your accommodation in Cusco
Assistance before, during and after the trek
Sleeping bag (-10°C feather bag available for rent)
Day 1: Sacred Andes Mountains and the Humantay Lake
Humantay Lake
12h · Admission ticket included
The tour begins at 4:30 a.m. as we depart Cusco, heading deep into the Andes. As the sun rises, the mountains come alive with golden light. Our first stop is Mollepata (2,900 m), where we’ll enjoy breakfast and get ready for the trek.
The trail winds its way up to Soraypampa (3,900 m), our first campsite, surrounded by towering peaks. But the real highlight of the day awaits higher up: Humantay Lagoon (4,200 m). This breathtaking glacial lake, with its crystal-clear turquoise waters reflecting the snowy peaks above, is a sacred site for the Incas. The short but steep hike is worth every step as we take in this magical place.
As evening falls, we return to camp just in time for a spectacular sunset over the Andes. After a delicious dinner, we rest beneath a sky filled with countless stars.
Day 2: The Challenge – Crossing the Salkantay Pass
12h
This is the most challenging day of the trek. We start early with a cup of coca tea to help with acclimatization, then set off toward the Salkantay Pass (4,600 m).
The climb is demanding, but every step brings us closer to the sky. As we reach the summit, the massive, glacier-covered Salkantay mountain towers before us in all its glory. The air is crisp, the wind howls through the rocks, and the views stretch endlessly in every direction. This is a place of raw power, where the Incas once walked and where nature reigns supreme.
We then descend into a completely different landscape, lush valleys, waterfalls, and cloud forests until we reach Chaullay (2,900 m), where we set up camp for the night. This way we will end our sencond day of the trekking.
Day 3: Into the Jungle – Coffee, Waterfalls, and Hot Springs
Banos Termales de Cocalmayo
12h · Admission ticket not included
As we leave the high mountains behind, the air grows warmer, and the scent of the jungle fills the trail. We trek through La Playa (2,000 m), a tropical paradise where locals grow coffee, bananas, and avocados. Here, we’ll have the chance to taste freshly brewed Peruvian coffee and learn about the traditional harvesting process.
After lunch, we take a short drive to Santa Teresa (1,550 m), home to the famous Cocalmayo hot springs. Imagine sinking into warm, natural pools, surrounded by jungle-covered mountains, as the river flows nearby. This is the perfect way to relax before the final stretch of our journey.
Day 4: Ziplining & Trekking to Aguas Calientes
Aguas Calientes
12h
For thrill-seekers, the morning kicks off with an epic zipline adventure, flying over 70 km/h (45 mph) across deep valleys, suspension bridges, and rocky cliffs.
Afterward, we begin our hike along the same jungle route the Incas once used, following the railway toward Aguas Calientes (2,040 m). Along the way, we pass hidden waterfalls, lush farms, and if we’re lucky spot some curious wildlife. We arrive at Aguas Calientes by late afternoon, where a cozy hotel and a well-earned dinner await.
Day 5: Machu Picchu – Sunrise Over the Lost City
Machu Picchu
17h
We wake before dawn for the final ascent to Machu Picchu. As we climb through the misty jungle, anticipation builds. And then, just as the sun rises, we arrive at the Sun Gate—and there it is: Machu Picchu, emerging from the clouds, bathed in golden light.
With our expert guide, we’ll explore the most important temples and terraces of this legendary city. After the guided tour, you’ll have free time to wander on your own. For those craving more adventure, an optional climb to Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain (advance booking required) offers even more breathtaking views.
Then you need to go back to hidroelectrica to catch the bus back to Cusco. You will arrive to the city between 9:00 pm to 10:00 pm or you can opt for the panoramic train ride (optional) for a more comfortable journey.
Meeting and pickup
Pickup details
Dear traveler,
Once you book, please let us know if your hotel is outside of our pick-up area. If so, we’ll meet you at the meeting point, the Plaza de Armas in Cusco or Main square or we can arrange an earlier pick up for you.
Additional information
Service animals allowed
Not recommended for pregnant travelers
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Travelers should have a high level of physical fitness
Cancellation policy
All sales are final. No refund is available for cancellations.
