Salkantay Trek To Machu Picchu 5 Days

5 Day from US $ 0.00

3 Days from
$ 00
00
Prr Person
  •  

Altitud maxima

3300msn

Duración

5 Día

Group Size

Min 2 Persons

Physical Level

Moderate

Trip Style

Hiking

LODGING TYPE

Campsite

Overview

5-Day Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu

The 5-day Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu is a historic and remote trail that traverses a diverse range of landscapes, located near the renowned Inca Trail. This trek features breathtaking contrasts, from towering snow-capped mountains to lush tropical rainforests.

Recognized as one of the top treks in the world, the Salkantay Trek offers a unique opportunity to experience a variety of Peruvian terrains, including deserts, jungles, high mountain passes, and pristine blue lagoons.

The trek approaches the majestic Salkantay Peak, providing an immersive experience in nature’s most pristine environments. Over the course of 5 days, you will traverse through more than 15 distinct ecosystems, each offering its own stunning vistas and biodiversity.

Moreover, the Salkantay Trek offers rich cultural and ethnic experiences, allowing interactions with local communities who continue to maintain their traditional customs.

Group Size: Small groups, with a maximum of 10 participants.

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Itinerary

DAY 1:

CUSCO – MOLLEPATA – SORAYPAMPA – HUMANTAY LAKE

You will begin the Classic Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu with an early departure from Cusco at approximately 4:30 am in our private van. We will head to the town of Mollepata (2,900 meters), arriving around 8:00 am. Here, you will have a brief break to gather any final supplies, stretch, and use the restroom.

After our stop in Mollepata, we will continue by private van to Challacancha, the starting point of our trek. Upon arrival, we will meet our support team, transfer our equipment to horses and mules, and begin our hike towards Soraypampa (3,900 meters) by 9:00 am.

Throughout this segment of the trek, weather permitting, we will enjoy panoramic views of the majestic Salkantay and Humantay mountains. By midday, we will stop for a traditional Peruvian lunch. Afterward, we will continue our trek to Humantay Lake, renowned for its striking turquoise waters nestled at the base of the glacier.

Upon returning to our campsite at Soraypampa, your tents will be set up, and dinner will be served.

Accommodation: Campsite in Soraypampa

Today, you’ll experience a dramatic shift in landscapes on the Salkantay trek, moving from rugged alpine terrains to snow-capped peaks and tropical zones. After a hearty breakfast prepared by our local chef, we will set out on the most challenging segment of the trek around 7:00 am.

Our hike will start as we head towards Salkantay Pampa and then turn towards the imposing face of Salkantay Mountain. By midday, we will reach the trek’s highest point at an altitude of 4,600 meters. The panoramic views from this vantage are breathtaking, offering expansive views of the Salkantay Glacier (6,264 meters) and the surrounding peaks and valleys.

Around 1:00 pm, we will stop for lunch at Wayraqmachay. After lunch, we will continue our trek for approximately 3 hours, eventually arriving at our campsite in Challway (2,920 meters). Upon arrival, our team will have your tents set up and your duffel bags ready. In the evening, we will relax and enjoy a communal dinner at the Challway campsite.

Accommodation: Campsite in Challway

After enjoying a delicious homemade breakfast, you’ll embark on the shortest yet most exhilarating day of your Salkantay journey. Today promises some of the most stunning vistas along the trek. We will begin our hike through the high-altitude jungles, descending from the rugged mountain terrain into lush, tropical landscapes.

After approximately 5 hours of trekking, we’ll reach Playa Sahuayaco near the town of Collpabamba, crossing an elevation known as the “eyebrow of the Amazon.” This area is rich with waterfalls, fruit-bearing trees, and diverse flora and fauna. With a bit of luck, you might even spot the vibrant Andean bird, the “Cock of the Rocks,” enhancing the day’s natural beauty.

Upon arriving at Playa Sahuayaco, we will take a well-deserved break and enjoy a lunch. In the afternoon, we will continue trekking downstream for a few more hours until we reach Lucmabamba, our final campsite and the starting point for the Inca Trail to Llactapata.

At Lucmabamba, you’ll have the chance to visit a local organic coffee farm. Explore orange and avocado plantations and savor freshly brewed coffee. During your visit, you’ll learn about the region’s coffee history and its importance to the local culture.

Around 3:00 pm, we will take local transportation for a half-hour ride to Cocalmayo, where you can relax and unwind in the natural hot springs.

We will return to camp feeling refreshed and enjoy a dinner prepared with the fresh fruits and vegetables harvested earlier in the day.

Accommodation: Campsite in Lucmabamba

This morning, we will embark on a gradual 2-hour ascent to the archaeological site of Llactapata. This significant site, with historical connections to both Machu Picchu and Sayacmarka, offers a fascinating glimpse into the ancient Incan world. After exploring Llactapata, we will begin our descent towards the Hydro-Electrica hydro station, a journey that will take approximately 1.5 hours.

From Hydro-Electrica, we will enjoy a leisurely 3-hour walk to the town of Aguas Calientes. Upon arrival, we will check into our hotel for the night. In the evening, we will gather for a group dinner at a local restaurant in Aguas Calientes.

Accommodation: Golden Sunrise Machu Picchu Hotel *** or similar

On the final day of our Salkantay trek, we will start early with a wake-up call around 5:00 am, followed by a hearty breakfast.

We will catch one of the first buses to Machu Picchu to avoid the crowds and enjoy the citadel bathed in the morning light. Our knowledgeable guide will lead you on a tour of the most significant sites, altars, and structures within Machu Picchu, providing valuable insights into the history and ancient cultures of this remarkable site.

For those seeking additional adventure, this is the perfect time to hike up either Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain if you have secured a permit.

After your exploration of Machu Picchu, we will return to Aguas Calientes by bus for lunch. Following lunch, we will board the train to Ollantaytambo and continue our journey back to Cusco in our private van, concluding the Salkantay trek to Machu Picchu.

Inclusions

Included

HUMANTAY LAKE DAY TRIP INCLUDES:

  • Pick up from your hotel in Cusco.
  • Professional tour guide (English and Spanish).
  • Touristic transport from Cusco to Soraypampa (beginning of trek)
  • Breakfast
  • Lunch
  • Entrance to the Humantay Lake.
  • First aid kit equipment.
  • Return transportation to Cusco.

No Included

  • Water.
  • Tips for your crew
  • Travel Insurance – you are strongly recommended to take out travel insurance for the duration of your trip.

What to Bring

WHAT TO BRING – FULL DAY HUMANTAY LAKE

Essentials:

  • Original Passport
  • Valid Student Card (if applicable)
  • Immigration Card (given on arrival in Peru)
  • Good daypack (smaller is better)
  • Water storage: 2-3 liters (e.g., Camelbak)
  • Comfortable hiking boots (lightweight with good soles)

For Your Duffel:

  • Sleeping bag (suitable for -10°C; available for hire at US$25.00)
  • 2-3 wicking t-shirts
  • 2-3 hiking pants
  • 4 sets of undergarments
  • 4 sets of hiking socks
  • 1 Fleece
  • Warm, down jacket (it gets very cold at night)
  • Rain jacket and pants
  • Sun hat and wool hat
  • Headlamp (essential)
  • Waterproof gloves (even ski gloves will work)
  • Comfortable shoes for camp
  • Waterproof jacket/rain poncho
  • Quick-dry towel (we provide small towels; you might want a larger one)
  • Small bottle of soap
  • Battery Charger (no charging facilities while trekking)
  • Large plastic bags for organizing and keeping items clean
  • Large duffel bag for horses to carry up to 5 kg of your personal items (includes sleeping bag and foam mattress if rented)

Toiletries:

  • Sunscreen (SPF 35+)
  • Face moisturizer
  • Bug spray (natural recommended)
  • Hand sanitizer
  • Wet wipes
  • Toothbrush and paste
  • Toilet paper
  • Personal medication
  • First aid kit (band-aids, moleskin, etc.)

Inside Your Daypack:

  • Water (for the first morning; clean water provided at each meal thereafter)
  • Sunhat
  • Rain gear
  • Fleece
  • Camera
  • Music device (optional)
  • Hand sanitizer
  • Toilet paper and small plastic bag for waste
  • Extra money for souvenirs, drinks, and tips
  • Earplugs (if needed)

Extra Services:

  • Sleeping Bag (for temperatures of -10°C): $25.00
  • Walking Stick: $15.00
  • Single Supplement: $70.00

If you need more details or have any questions, feel free to ask!

Inquiry now

Get Ready to Explore? With your booking confirmed, all that’s left to do is pack your bags and get ready to explore. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or embarking on your first journey, we’ll be with you every step of the way. At Wayna Picchu, we believe that every journey begins with a single step. So why wait? Start your adventure today and let the world be your guide.

Phone Number:

+51 968 653 629

Email:

info@wayna-picchu.com

WhatsApp:

+51 968 653 629

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EXPERT LOCAL TOUR OPERATOR WITH DIRECT SERVICE

At Wayna Picchu, we take pride in offering tours and treks exclusively operated by our knowledgeable staff and professional guides. What sets us apart is our commitment to providing you with a direct experience without outsourcing to third-party companies.

PREMIUM CAMPING GEAR

Experience a restful night in our top-of-the-line EUREKA tents, designed for all seasons and weather conditions. Our spacious 4-person tents are tailored for comfort, with only 2 occupants per tent to ensure ample space for relaxation and storage.

INTIMATE GROUP EXPERIENCES

To guarantee personalized attention, our group sizes are limited to a maximum of 8 individuals. This distinguishes us from other tour operators who often accommodate larger groups, allowing us to focus on delivering exceptional service tailored to your needs.

DIVERSE TOUR PACKAGES FOR EVERY BUDGET

Explore our diverse range of tour packages, meticulously crafted to suit various budgets and preferences. Whether you seek adventure or cultural immersion, we have the perfect itinerary to fulfill your travel desires.

CULINARY DELIGHTS

ndulge in gourmet Peruvian cuisine prepared by our skilled chefs, renowned for their expertise in crafting hearty and delicious meals. Our culinary offerings are a highlight of the Wayna Picchu experience, ensuring a memorable dining experience throughout your journey.

ENVIRONMENTAL COMMITMENT

Join us in our annual environmental cleanup initiatives, aimed at raising awareness and fostering a sustainable approach to tourism. Through our efforts, we strive to make a positive impact on the environment and support the well-being of rural Andean communities.

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