Trek through Peru's most dramatic mountain scenery on this alternative route to Machu Picchu. Pass beneath the sacred Salkantay peak, visit turquoise Humantay Lake, and journey through diverse ecosystems from glaciers to jungle.
Cusco, Peru
Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu 5D/4N
5 days / 4 nights
Up to Max 14 travelers
4,630 m / 15,190 ft
Challenging
Overview
About this tour
What you'll experience
- No permits required - book anytime!
- Visit stunning Humantay Lake (turquoise glacial lake)
- Cross Salkantay Pass at 4,630m with glacier views
- Experience 4 distinct ecosystems
- More dramatic mountain scenery than the Inca Trail
- Mix of camping and lodge accommodations
- Visit coffee and fruit plantations in the jungle
- Arrive at Machu Picchu for sunrise
Day by day
Itinerary
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01 Cusco - Soraypampa - Humantay Lake
Cusco - Soraypampa - Humantay Lake
Depart Cusco at 4:30 AM, driving through the Sacred Valley to Mollepata for breakfast. Continue to Soraypampa (3,900m) and hike to the stunning turquoise Humantay Lake (4,200m). Return to camp for dinner and overnight. Hiking: 3-4 hours.
02 Soraypampa - Salkantay Pass - Chaullay
Soraypampa - Salkantay Pass - Chaullay
The biggest day! After early breakfast, ascend to Salkantay Pass (4,630m) with spectacular views of the sacred Salkantay mountain (6,271m). Descend dramatically into the cloud forest to Chaullay (2,870m). Hiking: 8-9 hours.
03 Chaullay - Santa Teresa (Lodge)
Chaullay - Santa Teresa (Lodge)
Trek through lush cloud forest, passing coffee plantations, tropical fruits, and colorful birds. Arrive at Santa Teresa for a well-deserved rest in a comfortable lodge with hot showers. Optional: visit hot springs. Hiking: 6-7 hours.
04 Santa Teresa - Hidroelectrica - Aguas Calientes
Santa Teresa - Hidroelectrica - Aguas Calientes
Drive to Hidroelectrica and walk the famous railway track to Aguas Calientes, with views of Machu Picchu mountain ahead. Enjoy a final group dinner and overnight in hotel. Walking: 3 hours.
05 Machu Picchu - Cusco
Machu Picchu - Cusco
Early morning bus to Machu Picchu for sunrise. Comprehensive 2-hour guided tour of the citadel. Free time to explore or climb Huayna Picchu (if booked). Afternoon train and bus back to Cusco, arriving around 8 PM.
Good to know
Photo Gallery
From
$550per person
Good to know
What's Included
Included
Guide & Staff
- Hotel pickup and drop-off in Cusco
- All transportation during the trek
- Professional bilingual guide
- 2 nights camping + 2 nights in lodges
- All meals (4 breakfasts, 5 lunches, 4 dinners)
- Camping equipment (tents, mattresses)
- Horsemen and horses for equipment
- Machu Picchu entrance ticket
- Bus ticket Aguas Calientes - Machu Picchu - Aguas Calientes
- Train ticket Aguas Calientes - Ollantaytambo
- First aid kit and oxygen tank
Not Included
- Sleeping bag ($20 rental available)
- Walking poles ($15 rental)
- Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain ticket
- Hot springs in Santa Teresa ($10)
- Tips for staff
- Travel insurance
- Personal expenses and snacks
Good to know
Everything You Need to Know
Safety First
Your safety is our priority
- Expert guides with first-aid certification
- 24/7 emergency support throughout the tour
- Quality safety equipment provided
- Real-time weather monitoring
Flexible Booking
Plans change — we understand
- Tours run rain or shine
- Free reschedule up to 24h before
- Full refund for weather cancellations
- Dress recommendations provided
Book with confidence
Free cancellation up to 24 hours before your tour. No hidden fees, no surprises — just amazing adventures.
Ready for this adventure?
Tell us your dates and we'll take care of the rest.
From$550per person
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