The Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu 5 Days is one of the most popular alternative routes to the Inca Trail, offering breathtaking scenery, diverse ecosystems, and an authentic adventure through the Andes. This trek takes you from the snow-capped Salkantay Mountain (6,271 m) to the lush cloud forest, passing turquoise lakes, high mountain passes, and remote villages.
Over five unforgettable days, you’ll hike through dramatic landscapes, camp under the stars, and discover ancient Inca paths before arriving at the iconic Machu Picchu. The Salkantay trek is perfect for travelers seeking a less crowded route, combining nature, culture, and adventure.
Inclusions and Exclusions
Inclusions:
- Machu Picchu Entrance Ticket – Included with your Salkantay Trek, providing access to Machu Picchu at the end of your adventure.
- Professional Bilingual Tour Guide – Certified and experienced English & Spanish-speaking guide.
- Pre-Trek Briefing – Detailed orientation the day before your trek.
- Private Transportation – From your hotel in Cusco to the trailhead (Soraypampa).
- Camping Equipment – High-quality tents (2 people per tent), dining tents, kitchen tents, and portable toilet.
- Comfortable Sleeping Mats – Thick foam mattress included.
- Round-trip bus tickets between Aguas Calientes and Machu Picchu
- Meals on the Trail – 4 breakfasts, 4 lunches, 4 dinners + snacks (vegetarian/vegan options available).
- Experienced Cook & Mule driver – To carry group equipment and prepare delicious meals.
- Mule driver – To carry up to 6 kg of your personal belongings.
- Boiled Water – Provided every morning and evening.
- First Aid Kit & Oxygen – Carried by the guide for safety.
- train from hydroelectric to Aguas calientes
- Train from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo – Expedition or similar class.
- Private Transfer back to Cusco – From the train station.
What’s Not Included
- Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain tickets (optional)
- Sleeping bag (unless specified in your package)
- Tips for guides, hourse man, and support staff
- Meals not listed in the itinerary (e.g., final lunch in Aguas Calientes)
- Travel insurance (highly recommended for all trekkers)
- Personal expenses, souvenirs, or optional excursions
Highlights:
- Cross the majestic Salkantay Pass (4,630 m / 15,190 ft), the highest point of the trek, surrounded by glaciers and dramatic Andean peaks.
- Visit the stunning Humantay Lake, a turquoise glacial lake considered one of the most beautiful natural attractions in Peru.
- Experience diverse ecosystems, hiking from high-altitude alpine landscapes into lush cloud forest and tropical jungle.
- Enjoy authentic Andean camping, sleeping under the stars with comfortable campsites and full trekking support.
- Discover traditional Andean communities, learning about local culture, farming traditions, and daily life in the mountains.
- Taste fresh local coffee in Lucmabamba, prepared by local farmers in the jungle region.
- Explore the Inca ruins of Llactapata, with unique panoramic views of Machu Picchu from a hidden vantage point.
- Less crowded than the Classic Inca Trail, offering a more peaceful and immersive trekking experience.
- Guided tour of Machu Picchu, visiting the most important temples, terraces, and ceremonial areas with an expert local guide.

