Overview
Perfect for those in search of breathtaking scenery, this route follows the classic Salkantay Trail past the awe-inspiring Mt. Salkantay.
Hikers journey along a breathtaking trail that winds around the base of the sacred Mt. Salkantay (6,271 m / 20,694 ft), one of the highest and most awe-inspiring snow-capped peaks in the Peruvian Andes. Recognized by National Geographic Adventure as one of the “World’s 25 Best Treks,” the Salkantay route combines natural beauty, rich Andean culture, and unforgettable mountain vistas at every step.
Itinerary
- Today, we begin with a four-hour bus ride to the trailhead (3,100 m / 10,230 ft), where we’ll meet our horsemen and pack horses, who will support us throughout this incredible journey to Machu Picchu.
- Passports or IDs must be presented at the checkpoints.
- Today’s hike takes us through picturesque Andean villages and farmlands, where we pass corn and potato fields and admire breathtaking views of the majestic Mt. Salkantay (6,271 m / 20,694 ft).
- Tonight’s campsite is the coldest of the trek, so it’s the perfect time to bundle up in down jackets, warm layers, or cozy baby alpaca sweaters. Enjoy a comforting cup of coca tea or a glass of hot wine as you gaze up at the Milky Way.
- Hiking time: 6 hours
- Distance covered: 8 km / 5 miles
- Difficulty level: Challenging
- Today is a challenging day, with a 45-minute climb to reach the highest point of the trek — the Salkantay Pass (4,650 m / 15,345 ft).
- The snow-capped peaks of the Vilcabamba mountain range emerge through the clouds — a perfect photo opportunity.
- From this point, we begin descending into the Chaullay Valley and a more tropical zone. You’ll notice a striking change in vegetation — from dry, grassy slopes to the lush, humid rainforest.
- Tonight’s campsite is located at 2,890 m / 9,537 ft.
- Hiking time: 8 hours
- Distance covered: 17 km / 11 miles
- Difficulty level: Challenging
- Today, we continue descending along the Salkantay River, hiking through more populated areas and into the rainforest, filled with lush vegetation, waterfalls, and coffee and banana plantations. The area is alive with hummingbirds and brightly colored butterflies.
- The average temperature is around 22°C / 71°F, with a noticeable humidity factor.
- Hiking time: 6 hours
- Distance covered: 15 km / 9 miles
- Difficulty level: Moderate
- Today is our final challenging day. We follow an ancient Inca trail and climb up to Llaqtapata, an archaeological site still partially covered by jungle vegetation. From here, you’ll enjoy your first glimpse of the Inca citadel of Machu Picchu from the southwest.
- Learn about Llaqtapata as you explore the Inca site and take in the magnificent views of Machu Picchu.
- We then continue with a three-hour walk down through the lush bamboo forest to the Hidroelectrica train station, where we board the train to the town of Aguas Calientes.
- Hiking time: 6 hours
- Distance covered: 14 km / 8.5 miles
- Difficulty level: Moderate
OPTIONAL ACTIVITY – Zip-lining in Santa Teresa: Experience an exhilarating half-day zip-line adventure operated by Cola de Mono. This option replaces the hike and requires an additional fee.
- Early morning shuttle bus to Machu Picchu (25-minute ride).
- Today, we’ll start early in the morning, before the crowds arrive, with a two-hour introductory tour of the Inca citadel. As you explore, your professional guide will share the fascinating history and mysteries behind this Wonder of the World.
- Optional: Climb up to Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain known locally as “Montaña” (ADVANCE BOOKING REQUIRED – Check availability).
- Bus ride back down to Aguas Calientes (25 minutes).
- Board the train to either Ollantaytambo or Poroy, then continue by bus to your hotel.
Inclusions
- Pre-departure briefing for your tour.
- Transfers to the hike’s trailhead & to your hotel on the final day.
- Support staff (professional cooks, horsemen, and porters), horses to carry camping gear, and one riding horse for emergencies. Additional horses can be arranged at an extra cost.
- Camping tents or Dome rooms (geodesic domes equipped with beds and amenities).
- Machu Picchu entrance fee.
- Round-trip bus tickets between Aguas Calientes and Machu Picchu (one up and one down).
- Train tickets from the Hidroelectrica Station to Aguas Calientes.
- Train tickets from Aguas Calientes to either Ollantaytambo or Poroy, depending on train availability.
- English-speaking tour guide (An additional tour guide for groups of 9+).
- Duffle bag.
- One night’s hotel accommodation in Aguas Calientes at the selected hotel.
- Meals: 4 breakfasts, 4 lunches, and 4 dinners (If you have a dietary request such as vegetarian or gluten free PLEASE let us know).
- Emergency First-Aid kit and oxygen bottle.
BRIEFING: Before the hike, you’ll meet your guide and the other members of your group. Your guide will explain the route in detail and provide all the necessary information and recommendations for an excellent hiking experience.
× Not Included
- Backpacks.
- Hiking poles (Bring your own or easily rent one once you’re in Cusco).
- Sleeping bags (Bring your own or easily rent one once you’re in Cusco).
- Breakfast on Day 1, and lunch and dinner on Day 5.
- Entrance fee to Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain known locally as “Montaña” (Advance booking required – Check availability).
- Tips for horsemen, cooks and guides.
- Travel Insurance (You are strongly advised to purchase travel insurance for the duration of your trip.).
NOTE: The itinerary above is a sample. Hiking times, campsites, and lunch spots may vary at the guide’s discretion, depending on weather conditions, group progress, availability, or safety regulations established by the Peruvian government.
Ξ Packing List:
- Original Passport.
- Valid ISIC card (if you are a student and want to qualify for the discount).
- Hiking boots.
- Waterproof jacket / rain poncho.
- Warm jacket.
- Hat and gloves.
- T-shirts.
- Comfortable trousers.
- Sun cream (SPF 35 or higher).
- Insect repellant.
- Toiletries and hand sanitizer.
- Small denominations of cash (useful for restroom fees and light snacks).
- Personal medication.
- Camera and chargers.
- Headlamp with spare batteries.
⇒ Considerations:
- Hikers are strongly advised to spend a few days in Cusco (3,400 meters / 11,220 ft) or at a similar altitude to properly acclimatize before beginning the hike.
- Hikers should be in very good physical condition, as the trek involves long distances each day.
- The weather can change a lot — from freezing temperatures at night to warm and humid conditions around 24°C (75°F) during the day.
- Climbing Machu Picchu Mountain known locally as “Montaña” or Huayna Picchu Mountain is a terrific add-on experience since they both offer outstanding views of the Inca citadel, but the entrance fees are limited (400 people a day) and at scheduled times. If you are considering climbing either of them YOU MUST SIGN UP FOR A SPOT IN ADVANCE.
BUSINESS SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY:
Peru Machu Picchu Tours S.A. is committed to responsible travel that respects local people, their culture, local economies, and the environment. With your support, we can help conserve the areas we visit and bring positive benefits to the communities that welcome us.
How to Travel Responsibly: What You Should Know…
- Protecting the natural environment is essential. If you need to go to the bathroom, please do so away from water sources and bury the waste. Pack out or bury used toilet paper, and remember that tampons and sanitary pads must always be carried out. Avoid using soap or shampoo in rivers or lakes. Your guide will advise when washing with soap is not suitable for the environment.
- Many travelers choose to bring a small extra bag to collect any litter they find along the trail—and to carry out their own. This simple action helps keep the landscape clean. Remember that you may need to carry your rubbish until reaching the next town where proper disposal is available.
- Help us reduce plastic waste by avoiding single-use water bottles. Instead, bring a reusable canteen, a CamelBak hydration system, or a water filter to refill safely along the route.
¶ Types of Services:
You can choose between two service options for your trekking experience:
Group Service: This is a high-quality shared service with a maximum of twelve travelers per group. Groups of up to eight hikers are led by one guide, and groups of 9+ are accompanied by two guides. This is a great option for those who enjoy meeting new people and sharing the trekking experience. Our GROUP SERVICE operates on set departure dates.
Private Service: This service is organized exclusively for you and your group, allowing you to choose the departure date, group size, and trek duration. It offers the flexibility to adjust the hiking pace to your comfort level and typically provides a quieter experience on the trail, with fewer travelers along the route.
| Hike duration | 5 Days / 4 Nights |
| Hike level | Moderate to Challenging |
| Hike style | Active |
| Type of hike | Archaeological, Cultural and Adventure |
| Distance | 54 km / 33 miles |
| Hiking time | Day 1: 6 hours / Day 2: 8 hours / Day 3: 6 hours / Day 4: 6 hours / Day 5: Machu Picchu |
| Elevation | Elevation ranges from 2,000 meters (6,600 feet) at the lowest point to 4,650 meters (15,345 feet) at the Salkantay Pass. |
| Accommodation | 3 nights in camping tents and 1 night in a hotel |
| Group size | Group service up to 12 hikers maximum – Private service (as requested) |
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