+51 942 097 720 info@peruancestralpaths Via A.H. Virgen del Rosario G-2 Cusco – San Jerónimo, Cusco, Peru
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Salkantay Mountain Peru – Salkantay Inca Trail 5D/4N

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Tour Details

Welcome to the Salkantay Inca Trail, a 5 day trek that showcases the majestic Salkantay Mountain Peru. Your adventure will begin in the Mollepata district in the Cusco Region. This is one of the most iconic peaks in Peru. 

Peru Ancestral Paths’ expert tour guides will lead the way, ensuring a safe and memorable experience. This 5 day Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu will be an epic hike. But also it will be a deep exploration of the andean culture.

Each day, you will trek through breathtaking landscapes. The Salkantay Mountain Peru is on a range of snow-capped mountains.The path will take you over the challenging Salkantay Pass.

The 5 day Salkantay Trek is a high altitude adventure. You will face the cold, the harsh terrain and the impressive power of the elements. As night falls, you will camp under the stars, fully immersed in the beauty of the Andean wilderness.

One of the most anticipated features of the Salkantay Inca Trail is the visit to Machu Picchu. On the final day, you will explore this ancient site. Learn about its historical significance and enjoy panoramic views from Machu Picchu Mountain. 

Throughout the 5 day Salkantay Trek, all logistics are handled. You only need to focus on the experience and your personal essentials.

Break in your hiking boots! Peru Ancestral Paths will take care of every detail. This 5 day Salkantay Trek is the perfect alternative to hike to Machu Picchu

Highlights

Starting Altitude: Approximately 3,900 meters (12,795 feet) at the beginning of the trek.

Maximum Altitude: Reaches up to 4,630 meters (15,190 feet) at the Salkantay Pass.

Total Distance: The trek covers roughly 60 kilometers (37 miles) over 5 days.

Average Highest Temperature: Around 20°C (68°F) during the day.

Average Lowest Temperature: Can drop to -5°C (23°F) at night, especially at higher elevations.

Meals Included: 3 meals per day (except the last day), including breakfast, lunch, and dinner in restaurants or by trek cooks.

Level of Difficulty: Considered challenging due to high altitudes and the physical demands of the trek.

Salkantay Pass: The highest point of the trek, offering dramatic views of snow-capped peaks and rugged terrain.

Machu Picchu: A full-day visit to the iconic Inca ruins, one of the New Seven Wonders of the World.

Llactapata: Another inca site.

Humantay Lake: One of the most amazing natural destinations for its beauty. 

Diverse Ecosystems: Trek through varying landscapes including cloud forests, alpine meadows, and jungle edges.

Culture: Interaction with local communities and insight into their customs and traditions. Learn how to cook Pachamanca and visit a coffee farm.

Include

  • Guided tour by experienced professionals
  • Entrance fees to Machu Picchu
  • All necessary trekking permits
  • Transportation from Cusco to the trailhead
  • Return transportation to Cusco
  • Camping equipment (tents, sleeping mats)
  • Porters to carry cooking and camping equipment
  • Meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner for all trek days)
  • First aid kit including emergency oxygen
  • Accommodation in Aguas Calientes (last night)
  • Duffel bag for personal belongings up to a certain weight limit

Exclude

  • Hot springs visit in Aguas Calientes
  • Personal hiking gear (e.g., hiking boots, warm clothing)
  • Sleeping bags (available for rent)
  • Travel insurance
  • Tips for guides and porters
  • Meals not specified in the itinerary
  • Additional snacks and beverages
  • Entry to Machu Picchu Mountain or Huayna Picchu
  • Bus tickets from Machu Picchu to Aguas Calientes (optional)
  • Airfare to and from Cusco

Recommendations

  • Hiking boots (waterproof and broken-in)
  • Warm clothing (thermal layers)
  • Waterproof jacket and pants
  • Hat and gloves
  • Sunglasses and sunscreen
  • Headlamp or flashlight
  • Insect repellent
  • Water bottles or hydration reservoir
  • Snacks (energy bars, trail mix)
  • Personal first aid kit
  • Camera or smartphone
  • Cash (for tips and small purchases)
  • Personal toiletries and medication
  • Sleeping bag (suitable for cold weather)
  • Trekking poles
Itinerary

Day 1Cusco to Soraypampa to Salkantay Pampa

Peru Ancestral Paths will start the 5-day Salkantay trek with a pick-up from your hotel in Cusco at 5:00 am. The drive to Mollepata district will take about 2 hours by private transportation. 

After breakfast in a restaurant in Mollepata. You’ll meet the team of porters and muleteers that will support us throughout the trip. 

Then we’ll trek to Soraypampa. Here we will eat lunch with some mountain views. After Lunch we’ll hike to one of the prettiest places in the Andes. The 2 hours hike to Humantay Lake is one of the highlights of the day.

The last stretch of the day will be the hike to Salkantay Pampa, Here we’ll camp for the night. This place offers a direct view to the Salkantay Mountain, Peru. And at night is a perfect spot for stargazing.

Day 2Salkantay Pampa, Salkantay Pass to Collpapampa

After breakfast (very important for a physically demanding trek). Our trek of the day will be to the Salkantay Pass  (4,630 m/15,190 ft). This is the highest elevation point in the Salkantay trail. Here we’ll take time to explore and observe the views of the Salkantay Mountain Peru.

In the3 hours hike downhill, we may encounter andean animals such as vizcachas. We’lll have lunch in Wayra Machay. From there we’ll hike for another 3 hours.

The descent will bring the first views of the cloud forest. We’ll set up camp next to Collpapampa town now in a green valley.

Day 3Collpapampa to Llactapata

Enjoy the Collpapampa town before the hike, you’ll have time. We’ll hike narrow paths along the river. You will also encounter banana plantations on our way to Lucmabamba.

Lunch will be special. We’ll have a presentation on how to prepare Pachamanca. A typical dish which involves cooking everything underground. You will also sample some other andean and local products.

After this unique lunch we’ll go on a visit to an organic coffee farm. Here you will enjoy some fresh coffee and learn more about the harvesting process.

Our final destination of the day will be Lactapata. This is a small inca city that offers the first views of Machu Picchu. We will camp near this place at night.

Day 4Llactapata to Aguas Calientes

Our team will provide a hot beverage before breakfast. The hike of the day will be  a little more relaxed. We’ll descend for 2 hours to the Hydroelectric Station for lunch.

Then continue walking along the railway tracks to Aguas Calientes. This walk takes about 3 hours. You’ll check into a hotel in Aguas Calientes. Enjoy dinner, and prepare for tomorrow’s visit to Machu Picchu.

This 5 day Salkantay trek is near the end, but the best comes last.

Day 5Visiting Machu Picchu and Return to Cusco

This day will be the exciting visit to Machu Picchu. We’ll rise in the morning for the last breakfast of your journey. You can choose if you want to hike to Machu Picchu or you want to take the bus (12 USD extra per person). 

If you wish to hike you will have to wake up earlier. At the end the group will reunite at the Machu Picchu Gate by 6:00 am. 

You’ll enjoy the guided visit to Machu Picchu. Take pictures in all the iconic places, learn about the most significant archaeological site in South america. You have some extra time to visit on your own.

The time we go back to Agua Calientes depends on your return route. It also changes if you booked the Huayna Picchu Climb (must book in advance, includes extra charge). 

If you want to return by bus. You’ll have to hike all the way back to the Hydroelectric Station. This means we can be on Machu Picchu until 11:30 am.

We can stay at Machu Picchu a little longer if you return by train (12 USD extra charge). The train departs in the evening and it takes like 3 hours to arrive at Cusco. You can take things easy and explore Aguas Calientes.

The bus route takes 6 hours plus 2 hours of additional hike. You will return to Cusco City at the end of your 5 day Salkantay Trek. 

Useful Information

Information

The best months for this trek are from April to October, during the dry season. This period offers clearer skies and fewer rain interruptions. November through March marks the rainy season, which can present slippery and muddy conditions.

High altitude can affect anyone, even if your fitness level is high. To prevent altitude sickness, acclimatize in Cusco for at least two days before the hike. Drink plenty of water and take it slow.

Fitness is crucial, as the trek is challenging. It includes steep ascents and descents. Regular exercise, particularly hiking, is recommended prior to your trip.

Finally, ensure you have travel insurance that covers high-altitude trekking. Follow all safety advice from your tour guide.

Carry your passport at all times. In the Machu Picchu entrance you will have to show it to confirm the legitimacy of your ticket entrance.

Please, inform me of any medical conditions or health concerns beforehand. We can accommodate special diets if notified in time. We want to make sure we are prepared for all your needs.

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1 Review
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Sebastian Schneider

Solo Traveller

A journey of a lifetime! The Salkantay Inca Trail tour through the majestic Salkantay Mountain in Peru was an extraordinary adventure. From the rugged terrain to the breathtaking vistas, every step of the 5-day trek was filled with wonder and excitement.

January 30, 2024