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.

Group Tour: $ 450.00 (group service)

Private Tour: for more detailed information contact us at info@coclatours.com

✅ 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 of hotel in Aguas Calientes with 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 (+$20 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.