5-Day All-Inclusive Salkantay Trek To Machu Picchu

Day 1: CUSCO – MOLLEPATA – SORAYPAMPA – HUMANTAY LAKE

1. Salkantay Trail
   8h · Admission ticket included
   We depart Cusco (3,399 masl / 11,152 ft.) early in the morning, traveling by bus to Mollepata (2,900 masl / 9,515 ft.). Here, we take a short break to purchase last-minute supplies, stretch, and use the restrooms before continuing to Challacancha (3,600 masl / 11,811 ft.), our trek's starting point.
   
   At Challacancha, we meet our support staff, who will load the equipment onto horses and mules. Our trek begins with panoramic views of Salkantay and the Apurímac Valley as we make our way toward Soraypampa (3,900 masl / 12,795 ft.), where we stop for a hearty Peruvian lunch.
   
   In the afternoon, we continue our hike to the breathtaking Humantay Lake (4,200 masl / 13,779 ft.), where turquoise waters mirror the towering peaks. After enjoying the scenery, we return to camp, where our tents and a warm dinner await, preparing us for the next day's adventure.

Day 2: SORAYPAMPA – CHALLWAY

1. Salkantay Trail
   8h · Admission ticket included
   Today's journey unveils the dramatic contrasts of the Andes, where rugged alpine landscapes give way to towering snow-capped peaks before descending into the lush, tropical cloud forest. This ever-changing scenery highlights the diverse ecosystems of the Andean mountains, creating an unforgettable trekking experience. After a hearty breakfast, we begin our ascent toward Salkantay Pampa, gradually approaching the towering face of Salkantay Mountain (6,264 masl / 20,574 ft.).
   
   By midday, we reach the Salkantay Pass (4,600 masl / 15,090 ft.), the trek’s highest point, where the panoramic views of Salkantay Peak and the valleys below are truly awe-inspiring. After soaking in the scenery, we descend to Huayracmachay, where we pause for a well-earned lunch.
   
   The journey continues with a three-hour descent into warmer, greener terrain, arriving at Challway (2,920 masl / 9,580 ft.) in the evening. Here, a delicious dinner and a well-deserved rest await, preparing us for the adventures ahead.

Day 3: CHALLWAY – LA PLAYA – LUCMABAMBA

1. Salkantay Trail
   6h · Admission ticket included
   We begin our day with an early start, venturing into the high jungle, where we trek for approximately five hours through the "eyebrow of the Amazon"—a lush ecosystem filled with cascading waterfalls, fruit trees, and vibrant flora and fauna. As we hike, we may be lucky enough to spot the Cock of the Rock, Peru’s brilliantly colored national bird, along with butterflies and other exotic wildlife.
   
   We pause for a well-deserved lunch at Playa Sahuayaco, surrounded by the serene sounds of the jungle. In the afternoon, we continue downstream, passing through small Andean farms and coffee plantations, before reaching Lucmabamba (2,000 masl / 6,562 ft.), our final campsite and the gateway to the Inca Trail leading to Llactapata. Here, we settle in for the night, enjoying the peaceful surroundings before tomorrow’s breathtaking trek.

Day 4: LUCMABAMBA – LLAPTAPATA -HIDROELECTRICA – AGUAS CALIENTES

1. Salkantay Trail
   7h · Admission ticket included
   Today begins with a gradual two-hour ascent to Llactapata (2,840 masl / 9,318 ft.), an ancient Inca complex strategically perched on a ridge. From here, enjoy a breathtaking view of Machu Picchu and Sayacmarca, framed by the surrounding cloud forest. After exploring the site and learning about its historical significance, we begin a 1.5-hour descent to the Hydroelectric Station, where we pause for a well-earned lunch.
   
   From here, a leisurely three-hour walk along the railway tracks takes us to Aguas Calientes (2,040 masl / 6,692 ft.), also known as Machu Picchu Town. Upon arrival, we check into a comfortable 3-star hotel, where you’ll have time to rest and explore the town at your own pace. In the evening, we reunite for dinner at a local restaurant, sharing stories and anticipation for tomorrow’s visit to Machu Picchu.

Day 5: AGUAS CALIENTES – MACHU PICCHU – CUSCO

1. 7m · Admission ticket included
   The day begins early with breakfast before boarding one of the morning buses to Machu Picchu. Upon entering the Inca citadel, your guide will lead you on an in-depth tour, sharing the captivating history of this iconic site and explaining its most remarkable features, such as temples, ceremonial areas, terraces, and storage structures.
   
   If you’ve secured an additional ticket in advance, you’ll also have the opportunity to explore either Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain for a breathtaking perspective of the surroundings.
   
   After the guided tour, the group will return to Aguas Calientes for a brief rest and lunch. In the afternoon, you’ll board a train back to Ollantaytambo, where a private van will be waiting to take you to Cusco, marking the end of an unforgettable journey.

Pickup details

We'll pick you up from the lobby or front door of your hotel, Airbnb, hostel, or any accommodation located in Cusco's historic center.

• Not recommended for pregnant travelers
• Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
• Minimum age is 5 years
• A minimum of 3 people per booking is required
• Not recommended for participants with back problems, heart disease or other serious medical conditions
• A current valid passport is required on the day of travel
• Important: Upon booking, please contact the email address on your voucher to advise of any specific requirements and flight information
• Original Passport, ISIC card (if you are a student and want to qualify for the discount)
• Clothes: Walking boots, Waterproof jacket / rain poncho, Warm jacket, Hat and gloves, T-shirts, comfortable trousers
• Other items: Sunscreen (factor 35 or higher), insect repellent, toiletries and hand sanitizer, personal medication, camera and film, torch with spare batteries
• Note: We strongly suggest spending time at high altitude (above 3000 meters / 9842 feet - in Cusco or another high altitude area) for a minimum of 2 to 3 days before undertaking your trip. This is in order to minimize the possible effects of altitude sickness