Trek Salkantay is considered one of the 25 best treks in the world by National Geographic. This 5-day route takes you from the glaciers of Salkantay mountain (6,271 m.a.s.l.) to the Inca citadel of Machu Picchu, crossing an amazing variety of ecosystems: glacial puna, cloud forest and high jungle, with a diversity of flora, fauna and landscapes you won't find on any other trail.
An experience that goes far beyond a simple hike — every step brings you closer to the essence of the Andean world, its sacred mountains, its ancient history and its unique energy. Salkantay mountain, considered an Apu or sacred mountain by the Incas, accompanies you from the start as guardian of the path.
You don't need to be a mountaineering expert to complete this trek — just good physical fitness, a spirit of adventure and the willingness to live one of the most transformative and unforgettable experiences that Peru has to offer.
This trek is also a window into the Andean worldview — you will walk routes that the Incas themselves used centuries ago, pass through local communities that keep their traditions alive, and feel the magnitude of a nature that few people ever have the privilege of witnessing up close. An adventure that combines physical challenge, culture and spirituality all in one path.
ITINERARY
- Day 1 — Cusco → Soraypampa: Departure from Cusco at 4:00am. Travel to Mollepata and then to Soraypampa (3,900 m.a.s.l.), base camp of Salkantay. Free afternoon for acclimatization with views of the snow-capped mountain and Laguna Humantay.
- Day 2 — Salkantay Pass (4,630 m.a.s.l.): The most demanding day of the trek. We ascend between glaciers and snow-capped mountains, then descend to the Huayracmachay valley, where the landscape changes dramatically toward the cloud forest.
- Day 3 — La Playa → Santa Teresa: Hike through high jungle trails with orchids, butterflies and waterfalls. Arrival at Santa Teresa, with the possibility of visiting the Cocalmayo hot springs.
- Day 4 — Aguas Calientes: Trekking or train from Santa Teresa to Aguas Calientes, town at the foot of Machu Picchu. Night at hostel.
- Day 5 — Machu Picchu → Cusco: Guided tour of the Inca citadel of Machu Picchu. Return by train and bus to Cusco. Approximate arrival 22:00.
INCLUDES
- Tourist transportation
- Bilingual guide
- Full meals (days 1 to 4)
- Camping equipment and cook
- Return train Aguas Calientes → Cusco
- Bus to Machu Picchu
- Entrance to Machu Picchu
RECOMMENDATIONS
- Thermal clothing, windbreaker and waterproof jacket
- Waterproof trekking boots
- Trekking poles
- Sunscreen and sunglasses
- Small daypack and duffle bag
- Water bottle or hydration system
- Extra cash
- Altitude sickness pills
