Tour codeSAL0222
Salkantay Trek 5 Days, 4 Nights
4.9 · 123 reviews on TripadvisorExperience the adventure of the Salkantay snow-capped mountain, journeying through mountains, valleys and rivers on an unforgettable trek to Machu Picchu.
Discover the majesty of the Andes on a 5-day, 4-night journey along the Salkantay Trail. Immerse yourself in Andean nature and culture with hikes through snow-capped mountain landscapes, green valleys and crystal-clear rivers, visiting local communities that preserve their ancestral traditions.
Enjoy unforgettable panoramic views and the unique experience of connecting with the grandeur of Salkantay and Inca history.
At a glance
The Salkantay Trek 5 Days, 4 Nights is a guided hike from Cusco to Machu Picchu that visits Humantay Lake, crosses the Salkantay Pass at 4,600 m, stops at an organic coffee farm and reaches Llactapata for a first view of the citadel. It includes a bilingual guide, Sky Camp, Andean Huts and hotel nights, the Machu Picchu ticket, the Consettur bus and the train back to Ollantaytambo.
- Start
- Hotel pickup in Cusco, transport to Soraypampa via Mollepata
- Finish
- Machu Picchu, train to Ollantaytambo and transfer to Cusco
- Highest point
- Salkantay Pass, 4,600 m (Day 2)
- Distances
- Day 1: 7 km, Day 2: 22 km, Day 3: 16 km
- Accommodation
- Sky Camp, Andean Huts, jungle dome and hotel in Aguas Calientes
- Group size
- 2 to 16 people
- Book ahead
- At least 1 to 2 months
Updated · Permit rules by SERNANP and Peru's Ministry of Culture
Tour Details
Why hike the Classic Inca Trail
Humantay Lake
A turquoise glacial lake at the foot of the Humantay glacier. It is one of the most photographed places in Cusco, and you visit it on the very first day.
Salkantay Pass (4,600 m)
The highest point of the trek. You stand face to face with Salkantay ("Savage Mountain"), the sacred apu of the Incas and one of the highest peaks in the Cusco region.
From Glaciers to Cloud Forest
In just one day you go from icy mountain landscapes to the lush cloud forest, full of orchids, waterfalls and birds.
Llactapata and Your First View of Machu Picchu
Walk to this little-known Inca site and see Machu Picchu from a distance, far from the crowds, before you visit it up close.
Unique Lodging
Sleep under the stars in a Sky Camp with glass domes, in cosy Andean Huts and in a comfortable hotel in Aguas Calientes.
Itinerary: day by day
- Day 2Salkantay Pass4,600 m
- Day 5Machu Picchu2,430 m
All stops and altitudes
| Day | Stop | Altitude |
|---|---|---|
| 2 | Salkantay Pass | 4,600 m (15,092 ft) |
| 5 | Machu Picchu | 2,430 m (7,972 ft) |
Day 1
Cusco – Soraypampa – Humantay Lake
In the morning you travel from Cusco to Soraypampa and enjoy a delicious lunch. In the afternoon we climb to Humantay Lake, one of the most photographed hikes in Cusco, with turquoise water at the foot of the glacier.
As night falls, the Sky Camp in Soraypampa lets you sleep under a starry sky with Salkantay mountain in the background. It is the perfect start to immerse yourself in the vastness of the Peruvian Andes.
Includes today:
- Hotel pickup in Cusco
- Transport Cusco – Mollepata – Soraypampa
- Lunch and dinner
- Professional bilingual guide
- Sky Camp in Soraypampa
Day 2
Salkantay Pass – Chaullay
Today you climb a challenging trail up to the Salkantay Pass (4,600 m) to see the mountain up close. It is the most demanding day of the trek.
After the pass the landscape changes dramatically as you descend into the start of the cloud forest. The contrast in temperature and vegetation within just a few hours is one of the most memorable experiences of the route. You spend the night in our exclusive Andean Huts in Chaullay.
Includes today:
- Breakfast, lunch and dinner
- Professional bilingual guide
- Andean Huts in Chaullay
Day 3
Collpapampa – Lucmabamba
Enjoy a day walking through lush jungle and visiting an organic coffee farm. This stretch marks the transition into the high jungle, with trails that grow greener and more humid.
At the farm you learn about traditional coffee growing, from harvest to artisanal roasting. It is an ideal day to slow the pace after the previous day's effort. At night you sleep surrounded by nature in our exclusive jungle domes.
Includes today:
- Breakfast, lunch and dinner
- Professional bilingual guide
- Organic coffee farm visit
- Jungle dome in Lucmabamba
Day 4
Llactapata – Aguas Calientes
In the morning you walk to the Inca archaeological site of Llactapata and get your first view of Machu Picchu. This little-known viewpoint shows the citadel from a distance, and the site preserves Inca terraces and structures that add history to the hike.
After enjoying the views you descend into the valley to Aguas Calientes and rest at a comfortable hotel.
Includes today:
- Breakfast and dinner
- Professional bilingual guide
- Hotel in Aguas Calientes
Day 5
Machu Picchu – Cusco
Today is the big day! You spend the morning exploring Machu Picchu before returning to Aguas Calientes. The guided visit takes you through the citadel's temples, plazas and agricultural terraces, with the history behind each sector. It is an emotional finale after several days of physical effort and connection with nature.
Afterwards you board the train to Ollantaytambo, and our private transport takes you back to Cusco.
Includes today:
- Machu Picchu entrance ticket
- Guided visit of Machu Picchu
- Consettur bus up and down to Machu Picchu
- Train Aguas Calientes – Ollantaytambo
- Private transfer Ollantaytambo – Cusco
What's included
Includes
- Hotel pickup in Cusco
- Transport Cusco – Mollepata – Soraypampa
- Professional bilingual guide (English/Spanish)
- 1 night at the Sky Camp in Soraypampa
- 1 night at the Andean Huts in Chaullay
- 1 night in a jungle dome in Lucmabamba
- 1 night in a hotel in Aguas Calientes
- Meals: 3 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 3 dinners
- Machu Picchu entrance ticket
- Consettur bus up and down to Machu Picchu
- Tourist train ticket (Inca Rail Voyager or PeruRail Expedition) Aguas Calientes – Ollantaytambo
- Private transfer Ollantaytambo – Cusco
Not included
- Breakfast on Day 1 and lunch on Day 4
- Humantay Lake entrance fee
- Sleeping bag and trekking poles (available for rent)
- Travel insurance
- Tips for guides and staff
- Extra drinks and personal expenses
What Travelers Say
4.9/5 from 123 reviews on Tripadvisor-
Really unforgettable
“This trip to Cusco was much more than a walk, it was a gift to the soul.”
Katty Marita A · March 2026
-
Recommended Travel
“The Lagoon of 7 Colors exceeded my expectations, a magical place.”
ESTHER MILAGROS C · December 2025
-
Connecting with Peru via VIAJAXMUNDO
“I am deeply grateful for the very personalized and first-rate attention received by the agency VIAJAXMUNDO!”
Vivian Gisela P · September 2025
Excerpts from reviews on Tripadvisor, translated from Spanish by Tripadvisor. Read all reviews on Tripadvisor
How to prepare
Acclimatization
ImportantCusco is at 3,399 m (11,152 ft), so spend at least one or two days in the city before high-altitude excursions such as Humantay Lake and the Salkantay Pass. Proper acclimatization lets you enjoy your trip more and reduces the symptoms of altitude sickness (soroche).
Required documents
RequiredCarry your original passport or valid ID at all times, especially for entry to Machu Picchu and the train. Students who want a discount must show a valid student ID when booking and during the tour.
Safety during the tour
ImportantFollow your guide's instructions and keep to the scheduled times for each activity. Keep your belongings secure and walk only on the recommended routes at archaeological sites and on trails.
Money and payments
WarningBring cash in Peruvian soles for personal expenses, purchases, snacks or additional services. Cusco and some tourist destinations have ATMs and shops that accept cards, but in remote areas cash is still more common.
Machu Picchu recommendations
TipFor Machu Picchu, bring lightweight clothing, comfortable shoes, insect repellent, water and sunscreen. Site rules may restrict entry with large backpacks, drones or unauthorized walking sticks.
Rainy and dry seasons
TipThe dry season, from April to October, brings sunny days and clear skies and is the best time for hiking. The rainy season, from November to March, brings frequent rain and greener landscapes, with fewer visitors, so you can take great photos.
Recommended luggage
Pack light, practical luggage and a small backpack for each day. Include clothing for cold and mild weather, a raincoat, personal items, basic medication and hiking gear.
Packing list
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Small travel backpack
Ideal for carrying personal items, water, documents and essentials on each day of the trek.
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Comfortable, lightweight clothing
Comfortable clothing that lets you move easily on walks, sightseeing and outdoor activities.
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Waterproof jacket or windbreaker
Protects you from sudden weather changes, light rain and wind, especially in the mountains.
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Comfortable walking shoes
Sports or trekking shoes that give comfort and stability on different types of terrain.
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Sunscreen
Essential to protect your skin from solar radiation at high altitude and during long hours outdoors.
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Cap or hat
Recommended for sun protection on hikes, at archaeological sites and during outdoor activities.
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Reusable water bottle
Keeps you hydrated throughout the journey and helps protect the environment.
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Portable battery
Keeps your phone, camera and other devices charged during the trek.
Frequently asked questions
How difficult is the Salkantay Trek?
It is a challenging trek. Day 2 is the hardest because you climb to the Salkantay Pass at 4,600 m. You do not need to be an athlete, but you should be in good physical shape and well acclimatized.
Is Salkantay better than the Inca Trail?
Both are amazing. Salkantay offers more varied landscapes (glaciers, lakes and cloud forest), does not need a permit booked months in advance and usually has more availability.
What is the best time to do the Salkantay Trek?
The dry season, from April to October. From November to March you can still do it, but expect rain.
How many days should I stay in Cusco before the trek?
At least one or two days, to acclimatize to the altitude.
Can I rent equipment?
Yes. You can rent sleeping bags and trekking poles from us.
How far in advance should I book?
We recommend booking at least 1 to 2 months ahead, especially in the dry season, since Machu Picchu tickets are limited.
Send us your inquiry
Salkantay Trek 5 Days, 4 Nights
Important Information
Alternative treks to Machu Picchu
Compare the 5-day Salkantay with the 4-day version, Choquequirao and our other treks.
Read more →Machu Picchu travel guide
Tickets, circuits, opening hours and how to get to the Inca citadel.
Read more →All Inca Trail tours
Prefer the original Inca path? See our Inca Trail treks to Machu Picchu.
Read more →
