Trip Overview

Among the many routes that lead to Machu Picchu, the five-day Salkantay Trek stands out for its dramatic mountain scenery and remote wilderness. The trail crosses cloud forest, high mountain passes, and glacial lakes, offering a journey defined by wide horizons and striking contrasts.

Dominating the landscape is Salkantay Mountain, rising to 6,271 m (20,574 ft)—the highest summit of the Vilcabamba Range. For communities in this part of Peru, Salkantay is more than a geographical landmark: it is an apu, a revered guardian spirit whose presence shapes the cultural identity of the region.

The trek begins near Soraypampa, at the base of Salkantay, where sweeping views of the mountain accompany your first steps into the high Andes. A visit to Humantay Lake, famous for its turquoise waters, adds to the early highlights of the route. Because the trail crosses high-altitude terrain, it is more demanding than many alternative routes to Machu Picchu, yet also far quieter. Compared to the Inca Trail, far fewer hikers choose this path, making the experience more peaceful and wild.

Wildlife sightings are common—condors, hummingbirds, and other Andean species often appear along the way—and your guide will help identify plants and animals native to the region. Pack animals carry the duffel bags, allowing trekkers to enjoy the landscapes without heavy loads.

Path Finder Peru ensures proper logistics, professional guides, and reliable support staff, creating a safe and well-organized journey through one of the most spectacular trekking corridors in South America.

Your Day-by-Day Adventure

Day 1 – Cusco → Humantay Lake → Salkantaypampa

Your trek begins with an early pickup from your hotel in Cusco around 5:00 a.m. A private vehicle takes you toward the Soraypampa region, a ride of roughly four hours that reveals impressive views of the Izcuchaca and Limatambo mountain ranges.

A brief pause in the village of Mollepata allows you to buy essentials such as water, snacks, or a poncho. From there, the final leg of the drive brings you to the trailhead, where you meet the muleteers, cooks, and pack animals that will accompany the group.

Breakfast is served before beginning the hike. The day includes approximately four hours of walking, with a detour to the stunning Humantay Lake, one of the most photogenic lagoons in the Andes. After exploring the area, you continue toward the Salkantaypampa campsite, where dinner is prepared using local ingredients and the team sets up camp beneath the towering peaks.

Day 2 – High Mountain Crossing

A wake-up call around 5:30 a.m. starts the most physically demanding day of the trek. The path ascends steadily toward the highest point of the route: the Salkantay Pass, reaching 4,650 m (15,200 ft). From the top, you’re rewarded with breathtaking views of two imposing glaciers—Salkantay on one side and Tucarhuay on the other.

After time to rest and appreciate the scenery, the trail descends into a cloud-forest valley known as Huayracmachay (Huayracpunku), where lunch awaits. The vegetation becomes noticeably greener as you continue walking for about three more hours until reaching your campsite at Colcapampa (3,000 m / 9,800 ft). If the group maintains a good pace, alternatives like Challway or Andenes may be used instead. Wherever the day ends, a warm dinner closes this challenging but unforgettable stage.

Day 3 – Entering the Cloud Forest

Breakfast is served around 6:30 a.m. The terrain shifts dramatically today as you enter the “ceja de selva,” the transitional zone between the Andes and the Amazon basin. This section is known for waterfalls, orchids, butterflies, and fruit-bearing trees.

You cross the Lluskamayo River and walk through a warm and lush corridor where birds are abundant; with luck, you may catch a glimpse of the Andean cock-of-the-rock, Peru’s national bird. The streams along the path offer refreshing spots to cool down.

After lunch, the trek continues for about three additional hours until reaching the final campsite at La Playa (2,060 m / 6,759 ft). Here, you can relax, visit the area’s thermal baths if you wish, and enjoy a peaceful evening before the final stretch toward Machu Picchu.

Day 4 – Llactapata Viewpoint and Aguas Calientes

After breakfast, an uphill hike of roughly three hours brings you to Llactapata, a fascinating Inca site overlooking the Santa Teresa Valley. This archaeological location is believed to have served as a roadside sanctuary for travelers heading toward the sacred city of Machu Picchu. From here, you catch your first distant view of Machu Picchu, perched across the valley.

A long descent follows, passing small farms growing bananas, coca, and other local crops. By midday, you reach the Hydroelectric Station, where lunch is served. The last part of the day consists of a gentle walk along the rail valley until arriving at Aguas Calientes, the town below Machu Picchu.

After checking in to your hotel, you have free time to explore the streets, visit the hot springs, or rest before dinner. A comfortable night’s sleep prepares you for the highlight of the entire trek.

Day 5 – Machu Picchu → Return to Cusco

To make the most of the morning light, you begin early. After breakfast, your guide meets you around 5:40 a.m. for the short walk to the bus station. The bus climbs the switchback road that leads to the entrance of Machu Picchu.

Inside the sanctuary, your guided tour lasts about two hours, covering the most significant sites within the complex. Depending on the circuit assigned by the Ministry of Culture, you’ll visit landmarks such as the Guardian House, Intihuatana, Temple of the Sun, Sacred Plaza, and other major sectors. Throughout the visit, the surrounding peaks and deep valleys provide remarkable views.

Once the tour concludes, you return to Aguas Calientes by bus. Lunch is at your own pace before boarding the train to Ollantaytambo or Poroy, where a private transfer from Path Finder Peru awaits to bring you back to your hotel in Cusco.

Your five-day Salkantay adventure ends here—tired legs, full memories, and a deeper connection to the Andes.