English Version: Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu 5 Days

The Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu is a world-class journey and the #1 alternative to the traditional Inca Trail. During these 5 days, you will hike from the majestic Salkantay Glacier (6,271m) down to the lush high jungle. Furthermore, the Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu offers a unique chance to connect with local coffee farming families in Lucmabamba. Therefore, if you are looking for a physical challenge that combines turquoise lagoons like Humantay and living culture, this expedition is your best choice.

ℹ️ General Information

• Duration: 5 Days / 4 Nights.
• Price: From $420.00 USD (Shared service).
• Difficulty: Moderate to Challenging.
• UNESCO Site: Learn about the Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu landscapes at UNESCO.

⭐ Highlights of the Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu

• Visit the stunning Humantay Lagoon with its turquoise glacial waters.
• Conquer the Salkantay Pass at 4,630m (15,190ft) for epic mountain views.
• Hike through diverse ecosystems, from Andean tundra to tropical rainforest.
• Special Option: Stay at a local coffee farm to roast and grind your own beans.
• Explore the Machu Picchu sanctuary with a professional bilingual guide.

🗺️ Itinerary: Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu 5-Day Pack

• Day 1: Cusco – Mollepata – Soraypampa (Humantay Lake)
  • 04:30 AM: Departure from Cusco and trek start toward Soraypampa.
  • Afternoon: Hike up to the breathtaking Humantay Lake.
• Day 2: Soraypampa – Salkantay Pass – Chaullay
  • Morning: Conquer the highest point of the trek at the Salkantay Pass.
  • Afternoon: Descend into the cloud forest and camp in Chaullay.
• Day 3: Chaullay – Santa Teresa (Coffee Option)
  • Morning: Hike through valleys filled with passion fruit and coffee plantations.
  • Optional: Join the Coffee Tour in Lucmabamba and stay with a local family.
• Day 4: Santa Teresa – Aguas Calientes
  • Morning: Hike or take a local bus to the Hydroelectric station.
  • Afternoon: Walk along the railway to the town of Aguas Calientes.
• Day 5: Machu Picchu – Cusco
  • 05:30 AM: Bus ride to the citadel for a 2-hour professional guided tour.
  • Afternoon: Train journey back to Ollantaytambo and bus transfer to Cusco.

Note: If you would like to arrive to Cusco earlier, please ask for an earlier train ticket.

For more information about our pricing, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us at info@coclatours.com — we’d love to hear from you and help you plan your next adventure!

✅ What is Included

• All transfers from your hotel in Cusco.
• Professional bilingual trekking guide.
• Mules and horsemen to carry logistics and kitchen equipment.
• Full camping gear: waterproof tents, dining, and kitchen tents.
• All meals (4 breakfasts, 4 lunches, 4 dinners).
• 1 night at a hotel in Aguas Calientes with a private bath.
• Machu Picchu entry ticket and round-trip bus tickets.
• Return train ticket to Cusco.

❌ Not Included

• Sleeping bag (Rent available for $25.00).
• Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain entry (+$25 USD).
• Thermal baths entry fee in Santa Teresa ($3.50).

🎒 What to bring

• Footwear: Broken-in waterproof trekking boots.
• Clothing: Thermal layers for the cold nights and light clothes for the jungle.
• Protection: Strong insect repellent (essential), sunscreen, and a hat.
• Gear: Headlamp, power bank, and trekking poles (highly recommended).
• Personal: Original passport and some cash for snacks or tips.

💡 Expert Recommendations

1. Acclimatization: Spend at least 48 hours in Cusco before starting the Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu. Consequently, you will minimize the risk of altitude sickness.
2. Knee Protection: The descent on Day 2 is quite long. Therefore, using trekking poles is vital to protect your joints.
3. The Coffee Experience: We highly suggest opting for the Coffee Tour on Day 3. It is a fantastic way to experience the local “Cusco Profundo” lifestyle.
4. Luggage Strategy: Leave your big suitcase at your hotel in Cusco. Only carry a daypack for the trek.

❓ FAQ – Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu

1. Is there Wi-Fi on the trek? Only in Santa Teresa and Aguas Calientes. On the trail, you will be disconnected from the world.
2. Can I do this trek without a guide? While possible, we strongly recommend a guide for safety and for the rich cultural context of the Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu.