Name: Salkantay Trek 5 Days Classic
Brand: Peru Travel Company
SKU: 1
Price: 255 USD
Availability: InStock

+51 984 751 486 perutravelcompany@gmail.com Cuesta Santa Ana N° 701 and siete cuartones Nº 245

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From$255

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Length

5 Days, 4 Nights

Group

Min 8, Max 16

Trip Style

Trekking

Grading

3,4 of 5.

Overview

Embark on a remarkable journey through the heart of the Andes with the Salkantay Trek 5 Days Classic.
This extraordinary expedition to Machu Picchu takes you off the beaten track of the Inca Trail.
This trek offers a unique exploration of some of Peru’s most magnificent landscapes.
As you traverse this lesser-travelled route, you’ll be treated to unparalleled views of the towering peaks of Huamantay and Salkantay.
Experience the vast biodiversity of the region and the dramatic changes in climate and topography.

Highlights:

Humantay Lake: Kick off your trek at this stunning turquoise glacial lake.
Salkantay Pass: Conquer 4,600 metres and take in unbeatable mountain panoramas.
Epic Landscapes: From lush cloud forests to crisp, high-altitude peaks, experience nature in all its glory.
Ancient Rituals: Immerse yourself in powerful Andean ceremonies led by local shamans.
Real Connections: Get hands-on with traditional farming and artisan crafts alongside locals.
Finish off with a visit to the legendary Inca city of Machu Picchu with a professional guide.

Salkantay Trek 5 Days at a Glance.

DAY 1 .- Cusco – Mollepata – Challacancha – Soraypampa.

04:30–05:00: Hotel pickup
05:00–07:00: Drive to Mollepata (breakfast not included)
07:00–08:00: Drive to Challacancha (3,380 m)
08:00–10:00: Trek to Soraypampa (3,900 m)
13:00 -13:30: Lunch at Soraypampa (arrival around 1:30 PM)
14:30 –15:50: Hike to Humantay Lake (4,220 m)
15:50–16:35: Descent back to Soraypampa
17:00 – 17:30: Tea time
18:30 —18:30: Dinner
Night — Sleep in huts or Cabins at Soraypampa.

DAY 2 .- Soraypampa – Salkantay Pass – Colpapampa.

05:00 : Coca tea wake-up
05:30: Breakfast
06:00–09:30: Ascend to Salkantay Pass (4,600 m)
09:30–10:00: Snacks + views at the pass
10:00–12:00: Descent to lunch spot
12:00–13:00: Lunch
13:00–17:00: Continue down to Colpapampa (2,900 m)
18:00: Dinner

Night — Sleep in Colpapampa st Domes.

DAY 3 – Colpapampa – La Playa (Sayhuyaco) – Santa Teresa – Lucmabamba.

06:00: Wake-up.
06:30: Breakfast.
07:00–11:00: Descent to Sayhuyaco Beach (La Playa) through the high jungle.
12:00: Lunch at Lucmabamba.
13:00–16:30: Optional visit to Cocalmayo hot springs (Santa Teresa).
18:00: Dinner.
Night — Sleep at Lucmabamba at domes.

DAY 4 .- Lucmabamba – Santa Teresa – Hidroeléctrica – Aguas Calientes.

Morning Options- Trek via Llaqtapata-

06:00: Breakfast
06:30–10:30: Hike through lush forest to Llaqtapata ruins
10:30–12:00: Descent to Hidroeléctrica
12:00: Lunch.

Option 2: Take local transport (if not trekking)

06:00–09:00: 3-hour transport ride to Hidroeléctrica
09:00–12:00: Free time until lunch

Afternoon (for everyone)

12:45–15:45: Walk 3 hours along the railway to Aguas Calientes
16:00: Check-in at hostel

If you did NOT book Machu Picchu tickets in advance.

16:10–17:00: Visit Centro Cultural to receive temporary entry tickets.
17:00–18:00: Explore Aguas Calientes + lunch/free time.
18:00–19:00: Return to Centro Cultural to pay for official Machu Picchu ticket

Evening

19:00: Dinner.
19:30: Briefing for Machu Picchu visit.

Night — Sleep in Aguas Calientes.

DAY 5 – Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu – Cusco.

04:30–05:00: Optional hike to Machu Picchu
05:30–06:00: Optional bus to Machu Picchu
06:00–08:00: Guided tour (2 hours)
08:00–10:00: Optional hikes:

Huayna Picchu (must pre-book)

Machu Picchu Mountain (must pre-book)

11:00–12:30: Return to Aguas Calientes
13:00–16:00: Train to Ollantaytambo + bus to Cusco

Alternative: Walk to Hidroeléctrica – direct bus to Cusco

Inclusions

Briefing before the trek: Safety Briefing before the trek: The tour guide will brief you the day before the excursion at around 7:00 p.m. Please let us know where you will be staying in Cusco.
Pick up from your hotel: we will pick you up between 04:30 to 05:00 am.
Professional English/Spanish speaking tour guide: A professional guide will accompany you throughout the Excursion, and your visit to Machu Picchu, offering expert insights and fascinating information to enrich your experience.
Transport from: Cusco - Abra Malaga (starting point).
Meals:Enjoy nutritious meals during the excursion (4 breakfasts, 4 lunches and 4 dinners). The food is balanced to keep you energized along the way, with a free vegetarian option upon request in advance.
Expert local chefs: We have experienced cooks trained in adventure and mountain cooking. We use new kitchen equipment and kitchenware, as well as a dining tent with portable chairs and tables.
Entrance Ticket to Machu Picchu: Your entry is usually set for 7:00 or 8:00 AM or 10:00 AM for Circuit 01, 02, or 03. After that, you’ll explore Machu Picchu on a 2.5-hour guided tour. We’ll secure your tickets, subject to availability.
Muleteers & horses to carry : This experienced team will transport all necessary gear and supplies on horses or mules, so you can enjoy the trek without having to carry heavy loads.
Duffel Bag: At briefing or meeting one day before the trekking, you will be given a duffle bag in which you can put up to 5 kilos of your belongings. Our team will carry these duffels on horses during the trek, and you can get them at the campsites. This means you can hike comfy with just your daypack. When your trek ends and you return to Cusco, you must return them to our office or leave at hostel.
Acomodations day 1- Soraypampa Glass cabins: Stay in our amazing glass cabins designed for two people.
Acomodations day 2 - Colpapampa Domes: Enjoy the comfort of private domes for two people.
Acomodations day 3 - Lucmabamba Domes : Enjoy the comfort of private domes for two people.
Acomodations day 4 - Aguas calientes hostel : Stay in a comfortable hostel with Wi-Fi, a private bathroom, hot water, and breakfast. Upgrades to higher-quality hotels are available upon request.

Excludes

Meals (Breakfast and Lunch) : Bring a snack for breakfast or buy one at the Mollepata Village. After Machu Picchu, you’ll have time for lunch in Aguas Calientes town, where many restaurants are available.
Humantay Lagoon Entrance Fee : On day one, you'll visit Humantay Lagoon. Entry costs 20 soles ($6) for foreigners and 10 soles ($3) for Peruvians, payable in cash to the local government in Mollepata.
Hot springs in Santa Teresa town : This option costs 50 Soles in total, which covers a local transport from the campsite to the hot springs. The transport fee is 20 Soles one way 40 Soles total and the entrance fee to the hot springs is 10 Soles, making a total of 50 Soles for entrance fee and local Transportation. This payment or options you can do once you dicided on the way.
Round Trip bus tickets from: Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu – Aguas Calientes.
Drinking Water: We don’t provide water for refilling bottles, but hot or cold water is available during meals. You can buy bottled water from local shops (2.5L costs 5–12 soles), or bring a water filter or purification tablets to safely drink mountain water.
Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain Hike: $70 USD (optional, upon request). After the Machu picchu tour, you can hike up Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain. usually done on your own after the main tour. Guided hikes are available upon request for an additional fee.
Sleeping bag: If you don't have a sleeping bag, you can rent one from us. The sleeping bags we have are specially designed to keep you warm during the trek, where temperatures can be as low as -10°C. The rental cost is 40 soles (10 dollars) for the whole trip
Internet Conection: You won't get any mobile signal from 8:30 a.m. on the first day until the second day. if you need at first camp site internet access, you can get Wi-Fi for 10 soles. After the third day, you'll usually have mobile signal and internet access
Gratuities for Guides and Staff : Tips for guides, drivers, horsemen, and staff are not included. Tipping is optional but appreciated. While the trek team may expect tips, it is entirely up to you. We want to emphasize that tipping is voluntary, not mandatory.
Travel Insurance: We would advise acquiring one in your country of residence, as obtaining travel insurance in Peru can be Difficult .
Hot springs : If you would like to relax in the thermal baths in Aguas Calientes, there is a small entrance fee of 20 soles per person. You can pay this fee upon arrival.
Return options from: Machu Picchu (not included in the tour): Bus options cost: $10 USD and Train options cost: $75 USD

What to Bring

Original passport: Original Passport Required: Please remember that a copy of your passport is not accepted. You must carry your original passport, which should be valid for at least six months from your entry date to Peru. Also, make sure your passport has at least two blank pages available for entry and exit stamps.
Student ID: If booking as a student, you must show a valid ID (under 25, with photo, personal info, university name, and valid through December 31 of the travel year) to receive the discount.
Hold all your tickets on hand: Make sure you have all your tickets—Trains, Entrance, Buses and any others. Either print them out or download them to your phone for easy access.
Good-Quality Daypack: It’s essential to have a comfortable, lightweight, and compact backpack to carry your belongings during the trek. A good-quality daypack makes it easier to keep your essentials handy without weighing you down.
Botle water or Camel Bag: The bottle needs to hold 2 litres of water. It is important to choose a water bottle that can keep your water cold.
Trekking poles: We really recommend them for the Salkantay Trek and they are very useful. You can rent them from us.
Sleeping bag: when you buy a sleeping bag find one that is big enough for you. and put it in a waterproof bag so it doesn't get wet on the hike. also we recommend sleeping bags that can keep you warm down to -10°C. You can also rent sleeping bags from us.
Hiking water proof boots (with ankle protectors)
Head lamp: This equipment is essential for anyone taking the Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu. You can also bring a torch.
Waterproof Hiking Boots with Ankle Support: Designed for rugged terrain and wet weather, these boots provide full protection and keep your feet dry and your ankles supported every step of the way.
Emergency money: Please remember to bring extra money for any emergencies that might happen on the trip. is ideal to bring 300 soles/90 dollars and in cash

Packing List.

F.A.Q. ¿What should I pack in my backpack?

If you are travelling to a trekking destination, you should prepare your backpack and duffel bag in advance, especially for the Salkantay Trek. We recommend that you bring one or two large backpacks, depending on the length of your holiday. Carry only what you need for the 5 days of the trek, this means that any extra items or belongings you don’t need can be left at your hotel in Cusco or in our backpack storage room in Cusco.

what to pack in your personal Backpack?

During the days on the trek, Remember, you will be carrying your backpack with you for the entire trek, so you should carry a light, comfortable and good quality backpack. due to regulation issued by the local government, your backpack should not exceed 25 litres in sixe and large bags are not allowed to be carried inside Machu picchu, if you have one make sure that your largae backpack looks as small as possicle to carry inside Machu picchu.

here, we give you the list of items which you have to carry in your personal backpack.

Hats and sunglasses: The sun is intense at high altitude and you should protect your eyes from the glare. Wear one that offers UV protection and is comfortable.

Rain gear: The trail can be wet especially in the rainy season. Have quality gear and clothing with materials such as Gore-tex that will keep your skin dry while you perspire during the hike.

Warm clothing: During the Inca Trail, where the temperature fluctuates during the day and night, it is mandatory to have good clothing equipment such as: fleeces, long-sleeved shirts, down jackets and a waterproof layer.

Sunscreen: Choose a good sunscreen (high factor) and apply it before starting the hike and regularly during the day if you are sweating.

Hand sanitizer: Carry a good hand sanitizer to disinfect hands before eating, drinking and after using the bathroom. We recommend carrying a small bottle of hand sanitizer throughout the day.

Headlamp: carrying a headlamp is especially useful for those who hike the Inca Trail because it keeps your hands free for other tasks. It is useful to choose a headlamp for brightness, weight and comfort.

Snacks: bring snacks that are rich in energy and easy to digest. This, because chocolate bars or cookies are not ideal, as they can be heavy for the stomach and leave you with an impression of sluggishness, so we recommend taking granola bars or a mixture of nuts which will give enough energy to perform the walk.

Extra money: take money preferably in soles for drinks, tips and souvenirs: during the excursion you will find facilities or bathrooms where you will have to pay for the use of some of them, especially the first day.

What to pack in your personal Duffel bag?

Peru Travel Company will provide you with a duffel bag to pack your belongings that you don’t need during the day, the porters will carry the duffel bag, and please note that it must have a maximum weight of 7 Kg, including your sleeping bag and your air mattress (if you bring or rent one). The duffel bag will be provided to you one day before the trek at your hotels or our office.

Sleeping bag: if you don’t have one, you can rent it from us; also if you want to buy it it has to have the estimated weight of 2 kilos and remember to pack it in a plastic bag to keep it during the excursion, we recommend a -10°C sleeping bag.
Rain Gear: The trail can be wet especially in the rainy season. Have quality gear and clothing with materials such as Gore-tex that will keep your skin dry while you perspire during the hike
Warm jacket: The weather during the excursion fluctuates and can drop sharply during the day and night, so it is essential to bring layers of clothing for the sun and a waterproof outer layer in case of rain or snow
4 to 5 T-shirts: Absorbent T-shirts that dry quickly are recommended. Synthetic fabrics such as polyester or nylon are the best choice, as they will hold sweat and dry quickly, avoid cotton shirts as they retain moisture and cause chafing and are difficult to dry
2 to 3 trekking pants: there are a variety of types of trekking pants one of them is the cargo pants which have large pockets on the side of the legs and the convertible pants have legs that zipper at the knee, those are ideal especially in hot climates or changing conditions during the trail for women leggings or leggings work perfectly
4 pairs of underwear: wearing a sports bra and compression shorts will be helpful and keep you comfortable to avoid chafing. If you are hiking in cold weather, wear thermal underwear that will keep you warm
Snacks: bring snacks that are rich in energy and easy to digest. This, because chocolate bars or cookies are not ideal, as they can be heavy for the stomach and leave you with an impression of sluggishness, so we recommend taking granola bars or a mixture of nuts which will give enough energy to perform the walk
Extra money: take money preferably in soles for drinks, tips and souvenirs: during the excursion you will find facilities or bathrooms where you will have to pay for the use of some of them, especially the first day.

Itinerary

Day 1Cusco – Mollepata – Challacancha – Soraypampa

Early Departure: Our journey begins with an early pickup from your hotel between 04:30 to 05:00 AM, heading towards Mollepata. After a brief stop for breakfast (not included), we continue for a 1-hour drive to Challacancha (3,380 meters), setting the stage for our trek.

Trek to Soraypampa: From Challacancha, a 2-hour hike leads us to Soraypampa (3,900 meters), our lunch spot and first campsite, arriving around 1:30 PM. After lunch, embark on a 1 hour and 20-minute hike up to the stunning Humantay Lake (4,220 meters), with 45 minutes to descend back to Soraypampa.

Evening Relaxation: Enjoy tea time followed by dinner and settle in for the night in comfortable huts at Soraypampa.

Meals: Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Camping (huts/tents)
Difficulty: Moderate.
Walking Time: 4 – 5 hours
Hiking Distance: 12 km / 7.5 mi
Campsite Altitude: 3,850 m / 12,631 ft
Highest Altitude: 4,200 m / 13,779 ft

Day 2Soraypampa – Salkantay Pass – Colpapampa

Morning Ritual: Wake up to coca tea served outside your hut, followed by breakfast.

Ascent to Salkantay Pass: Begin the day’s trek towards the majestic Salkantay Mountain, culminating at the Salkantay Pass (4,600 meters). Enjoy snacks while soaking in the history and breathtaking views of the surrounding peaks.

Descent to Colpapampa: After the pass, descend for 2 hours to our lunch spot, then continue trekking down to Colpapampa (2,900 meters), today’s campsite.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.
Accommodation: Camping (huts/tents)
Difficulty: Challenging.
Walking Time: 9–10 hours
Hiking Distance: 24km / 14.9 mi
Campsite Altitude: 2,770 m / 9,087 ft
Highest Altitude: 4,600 m / 11,5091 ft

Day 3Colpapampa – La Playa Sayhuyaco – Santa Teresa – Lucmabamba

Descent to Lucmabamba: Start the day with a leisurely four-hour descent to Sayhuyaco Beach. You’ll hike through increasingly lush terrain into the high jungle, where the climate is warmer and biodiversity greater.

Lunch at Lucma bamba: Enjoy a hearty lunch in the middle of the forest.

In the Afternoon: Relax at the Cocalmayo hot springs in the town of Santa Teresa (not included) and return to camp in the evening for dinner and sleep.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Camping (tents)
Walking Time: 5 to 6 hours.
Difficulty: Moderate.
Hiking Distance: 12 km / 7.5 mi
Campsite Altitude: 2,750 m / 9,022 ft
Highest Altitude: 4,200 m / 13,779 ft

Day 4Lucmabamba - Santa Teresa – Hidrolectric – Aguas Calientes – Pueblo

Morning Choices: You can choose to trek from Lucmabamba to Aguas Calientes via the Llaqtapata ruins, or you can take local transport and avoid the trek.

Afternoon Trek to Aguas Calientes: Regardless of the morning activity, reunite for lunch at Hydroelectric. Afterward, embark on a scenic 3-hour walk along the train tracks to Aguas Calientes, where you will check into a hostel and enjoy dinner.

if you have not booked your entrance fee to Machu picchu in advance.

Descent through Biodiversity: You will have to travel 3 hours by local transport to get to Hidrolectrica.

Morning Trek to Aguas Calientes: After that, A 3-hour walk along the railway line to Aguas Calientes.

Temporary tickets for Machu Picchu.: Once you arrive in Aguas Calientes, you must first go to the office of the Centro Cultural Machu Picchu to get your temporary tickets.

Check in at your hostel : Once you’ve collected your temporary Machu Picchu tickets and checked into your hotel in Aguas Calientes, you’ll have some free time to explore the lovely town and have lunch at a local restaurant.

In the Afternoon: Depending on the time that you were informed, you will have to return to the Centro Cultural Machu Picchu to pay for a valid ticket to Machu Picchu (this ticket is sold directly to tourists).

In the evening at Aguas Calientes town :Once you’ve got your tickets, head to the restaurant for dinner. Then you’ll be given information about the guided tour of Machu Picchu.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Hostel
Walking Time: 6 -7 hours
Difficulty: Moderate
Hiking Distance: 18 km / 11 mi
Aguas Calientes Altitude: 2,000 m/ 6561 ft
Highest Altitude: 2,840 m / 9,318 ft

Day 5Aguas Calientes Pueblo – Machu Picchu – Cusco

Early Ascent to Machu Picchu: After breakfast, you can choose to hike or take the bus to Machu Picchu. Enjoy a comprehensive 2 hour guided tour of the agricultural terraces, residential areas and religious sites that unlock the mysteries of this ancient wonder.

Optional Mountain Treks: If you book in advance, you can climb either Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain for breathtaking views of the citadel and surrounding valley.

Return Journey: Later you will return to Aguas Calientes to catch the train to Ollantaytambo. From there you can take a bus back to Cusco. Alternatively, you can walk back to Hidroelectrica to catch a direct bus to Cusco, completing your remarkable journey along the Salkantay Route.

Meals: Breakfast
Walking Time: 3 hours, exploring Machu Picchu.
Machu Picchu Altitude: 2,430 m / 7,972 ft
Difficulty: Easy

Photos

Gallery

FAQs

1.What is the altitude range and walking time for each day of the trek?

The altitude range varies throughout the trek, reaching a maximum of 4,600 meters at Salkantay Pass and descending to 2,900 meters at Colpapampa. Walking time ranges from 4 to 5 hours on Day 1 to 9 to 10 hours on Day 2, depending on the distance and terrain.

2.What type of accommodation is provided during the trek, and are there any single occupancy options available?

Accommodation during the trek includes camping in huts or tents. On Day 1, accommodation is in comfortable huts at Soraypampa, while on subsequent days, camping is in tents. Single occupancy options may be available upon request, although they may come with additional charges.

3.Are meals included throughout the trek, and are there vegetarian/vegan options available?

Yes, meals are included throughout the trek, including breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Vegetarian and vegan options are typically available, and dietary preferences can be accommodated with prior notice.

4.Are there any optional activities available during the trek, and what are they?

Yes, there are optional activities available during the trek. On Day 3, there is the option to visit Cocalmayo’s thermal baths in Santa Teresa for relaxation, at an extra cost. On Day 4, participants can choose between a trek from Lucmabamba to Aguas Calientes via the Llaqtapata ruins or a zip line adventure in Santa Teresa, also at an extra cost.

5.How is transportation arranged back to Cusco after visiting Machu Picchu?

After visiting Machu Picchu on Day 5, participants descend to Aguas Calientes to board the train back to Ollantaytambo. From there, a bus will take them back to Cusco, marking the end of the trekking adventure.

Salkantay Trek 5 Days Classic

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