An epic journey through the Andes, from glaciers to jungle.
The Salkantay Trek is the most famous alternative to the Classic Inca Trail — and for good reason. Over 5 days, you’ll hike across high mountain passes, gaze at the majestic Salkantay glacier, descend into lush cloud forests, and finish at the awe-inspiring Machu Picchu.
Recognized by National Geographic as one of the top 25 treks in the world, the Salkantay route is a perfect blend of natural beauty, cultural encounters, and adventure. Unlike the busy Inca Trail, this trek is less crowded yet equally rewarding.
Why Book This Tour?
✔️ Trek one of the world’s most scenic routes, from snow-capped peaks to tropical valleys
✔️ See the turquoise Humantay Lake and cross the mighty Salkantay Pass (4,650 m / 15,255 ft)
✔️ Camp under starry skies in the Andes, then relax in a comfortable hotel in Aguas Calientes
✔️ Visit Llactapata ruins, with a first glimpse of Machu Picchu from a unique angle
✔️ End with a guided exploration of Machu Picchu, one of the New Seven Wonders of the World
✔️ Full support: professional English-speaking guides, cooks, horsemen, and porters
Ready for the Adventure of a Lifetime?
Book your Salkantay Trek today or contact us for more details — we’ll help you plan the perfect journey to Machu Picchu.
Overview
- Price: From USD 640 per person
- Duration: 5 days / 4 nights
- Group service: Group guided, Max. 12 people
- Difficulty: Moderate to challenging
- Languages: English & Spanish
Day 1: Cusco – Mollepata – Soraypampa – Humantay Lake
- Early morning pick-up from your hotel and drive to Mollepata. After breakfast, continue to Challacancha, the trek’s starting point.
- Begin your hike toward Soraypampa, following ancient aqueducts with views of Salkantay and Humantay.
- After lunch, hike up to Humantay Lake (4,200 m / 13,779 ft), a breathtaking turquoise lagoon beneath glaciers.
- Return to camp at Soraypampa for dinner and stargazing under Andean skies.
Distance: 12 km / 7.5 miles (6–7 hrs)
Campsite altitude: 3,920 m / 12,861 ft
Difficulty: Moderate
Day 2: Soraypampa – Salkantay Pass – Chaullay
- Today is the toughest but most rewarding day.
- Ascend to Salkantay Pass (4,650 m / 15,255 ft), the highest point of the trek, with panoramic views of glaciers and valleys.
- Descend into the cloud forest, where the scenery shifts dramatically from alpine to jungle.
- Camp at Chaullay after a long but spectacular day.
Distance: 17 km / 10.5 miles (9–10 hrs)
Campsite altitude: 2,750 m / 9,022 ft
Difficulty: Challenging
Day 3: Chaullay – Collpapampa – La Playa – Lucmabamba
- Follow the Santa Teresa Valley, passing rivers, waterfalls, orchids, and coffee, banana, and avocado plantations.
- Stop in La Playa for lunch before hiking to Lucmabamba, your campsite.
- Visit a local organic coffee farm for a hands-on experience (roasting and tasting included).
Distance: 20 km / 12.4 miles (6–7 hrs)
Campsite altitude: 2,400 m / 7,874 ft
Difficulty: Moderate
Day 4: Lucmabamba – Llactapata – Aguas Calientes
- Hike along a section of the original Inca Trail to Llactapata ruins, with stunning views of Machu Picchu from across the valley.
- Descend through lush landscapes to Hidroelectrica, where lunch is served.
- Continue on foot or take the train to Aguas Calientes (gateway to Machu Picchu). Overnight in a hotel.
Distance: 18 km / 11 miles (8–9 hrs)
Hotel altitude: 2,040 m / 6,692 ft
Difficulty: Moderate to challenging
Day 5: Machu Picchu – Cusco
- Early morning bus to Machu Picchu for sunrise.
- Guided 2-hour tour of the citadel: temples, terraces, and sacred plazas.
- Optional climbs: Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain (pre-booking required, extra fee).
- Afternoon return to Aguas Calientes for the train to Ollantaytambo, then transfer to Cusco.
Walking: 2–5 hrs inside Machu Picchu (optional extra hikes 2–3 hrs)
Difficulty: Easy to moderate
Expert local knowledge — decades of experience in sustainable tourism in Cusco;
