Cusco: 5-Day Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu with Tickets

Join the Ultimate Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu—a journey that goes beyond just seeing the sights. Imagine walking through the heart of the Andes, surrounded by lakes, sacred mountains, stunning landscapes, and trails filled with ancient stories. Every step brings you closer to the magic of Machu Picchu and gives you a deeper connection with nature. This trek isn’t just an adventure; it’s an experience that challenges and transforms you.

Day 1: Cusco Humantay Lake - SalkaGlamp Campsite

Begin your adventure with an early 4:30 am pickup, followed by a 3-hour scenic drive to the trailhead. After a hearty breakfast, meet your dedicated team and start your hike to Soraypampa (3,800 m) in about 3 hours. Relish a well-deserved lunch, then trek 2 hours to Humantay Lake (4,200 m) for stunning views. Continue another 2 hours to the cozy Salka-Glamp campsite at 4,150 m, where you'll end the day with a delicious dinner beneath a star-lit sky.

Day 2: Salka Glamp - Salkantay Pass - Cloud Forest

Wake up with fresh coffee or coca tea, then embark on a 2-hour hike up to the highest point of the trek at 4,630 m. Take in breathtaking views and visit a nearby lake before descending for 3 hours to Wayracmachay for a rewarding lunch. Continue 3 hours down through changing landscapes and climates, ending at the Collpapampa campsite (2,770 m) beside a local village.

Day 3: Campsite - Pachamanca Barbecue - Llactapata

After breakfast, journey through scenic trails, crossing wooden bridges and passing waterfalls and plantations, leading to Lucmabamba (2,000 m) for a traditional Pachamanca Barbecue lunch. Visit organic coffee farms, then set off on a 3-hour hike along the ancient Inca Trail to Llactapata (2,750 m), an Inca site with views of Machu Picchu. Camp with a panoramic view of the iconic citadel.

Day 4: Llactapata - Hydroelectrica - Aguas Calientes

Start your morning with a view of Machu Picchu from your tent and a freshly brewed coffee. Descend for 2 hours to the hydroelectric station, enjoying a final brunch with your team. Then, take a 3-hour hike along the railway and Urubamba River to Aguas Calientes, with a stop to explore the Mandor Botanical Gardens, rich in birdlife and orchids. Check into your hotel in Aguas Calientes, and spend the evening exploring or relaxing at the hot springs, followed by dinner at a local restaurant.

Day 5: Explore Machu Picchu - Return to Cusco

The highlight of your trek awaits—Machu Picchu! After an early breakfast, take one of the first buses up to witness sunrise over this wonder of the world. Enjoy a 2-3 hour guided tour uncovering the secrets of Machu Picchu, and if you wish, hike up Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain. Afterward, return to Aguas Calientes for lunch, retrieve your belongings, and board the Panoramic Vistadome train to Ollantaytambo, followed by a private van to Cusco, arriving around 7:30 pm.