Embark on the Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu, the most biodiverse trekking experience in Peru. This tour offers a unique journey through the Andes Mountains, featuring stunning blue lakes, snow-capped peaks, and the dramatic Andes range. Along the way, you’ll enjoy hiking through the Inka Jungle and engaging in exciting acient hiking to llactapata with original inca trails. Additionally, you can relax in the Cocalmayo natural hot springs before reaching the magnificent Machu Picchu.
Over the first 2 days, trek the renowned Salkantay Trail near the snow-capped peaks. You’ll cross the Andes range, reaching an altitude of 4,600 meters (15,100 feet). On the opposite side of the Andes, immerse yourself in the lush Jungle and explore the classic Inka Trail. The final day of your trek is dedicated to exploring the awe-inspiring Machu Picchu.
The best part? This all-inclusive trek covers 1 night in a hostel, 3 nights of camping, meals, camping gear, transportation, and Machu Picchu tickets.
Ideal for nature and adventure enthusiasts, this trek also offers alternative options. If you plan ahead, consider the Inka Trail Alternative, which combines the Salkantay Trek with the classic Inka Trail. For a quicker visit, check out the full-day Tour to Machu Picchu. Additionally, you can explore Humantay Lake on a full-day tour. Chat with us to learn more about the Inka Trail Alternative to Machu Picchu and the Humantay Lake Tour.
Our adventure begins with a 4:30 am pickup from your accommodation. We then embark on a 4-hour bus ride to start our journey.
Our first stop is Mollepata, located at 2,900 meters (9,514 feet), where we’ll take a 30-minute break. Afterward, we continue our journey to the meeting point with our porters and horses, who will assist with the equipment. The trek begins with a 4-hour hike towards Soraypampa, situated at 3,900 meters (12,795 feet), alongside ancient Inka irrigation channels.
Upon arrival at Soraypampa, we’ll set up our first base camp. Here, we’ll take a break for lunch and enjoy stunning views of the Salkantay Mountains and snow-capped peaks. The temperature at this camp typically ranges from 10°C during the day to 2°C at night.
After lunch, we’ll hike to Humantay Lake, located at 4,200 meters (13,779 feet). This scenic lake is about a 1.5-hour walk from our camp. Our camping area is equipped with a four-season tent and a straw roof, ensuring comfort at 3,900 meters (12,800 feet).
The first day – Humantay lake in the Salkantay trek to Machu Picchu
Humantay snowy peak – the view from the camping site.
Today, we embark on a thrilling journey across the Andes Range. We start early in the morning with a hearty breakfast at our camp. Then, we set off on a challenging hike towards the highest point of the trek.
Our goal is to reach the Salkantay Pass, situated at 4,600 meters (15,100 feet). The trek to this point takes about 4 to 5 hours. Along the way, you’ll experience breathtaking views of snow-capped peaks and rugged landscapes.
As we ascend, you’ll notice the dramatic change in scenery, with alpine meadows giving way to high-altitude terrain. Once we reach the Salkantay Pass, take a moment to enjoy the panoramic vistas and capture stunning photos of the surrounding mountains.
After crossing the pass, we begin our descent towards the cloud forest. This part of the trek is more gradual and offers a stark contrast to the morning’s rugged terrain, in the way you will enjoy a nice lunch in the mountains. Then, We’ll hike for another 3 to 4 hours before reaching our next campsite, where we’ll rest and enjoy a well-deserved dinner.
The temperature at the Salkantay Pass can be quite cold, so be prepared for chilly conditions. However, the reward is the incredible scenery and the satisfaction of crossing one of the highest points on the trek.
The hights spot in the Salkantay trek to Machu Picchu.
After breakfast at 6:30 am, we start our journey towards Sahuyaco (La Playa), situated at 2,000 meters (6,824 feet). This trek involves a 4-hour hike on flat and downhill paths. The temperature in this area typically ranges from 25°C during the day to 14°C at night. After hiking for 4 hours, we’ll enjoy a satisfying lunch.
In the afternoon, we continue by car to Santa Teresa, located at 1,550 meters (5,085 feet). Here, we’ll set up our base camp and relax in the soothing hot springs. After a refreshing soak, we’ll savor a traditional Peruvian dinner. Finally, rest well to prepare for the exciting adventures of the next day.
Chaullay on the other side of the Andes range
Cocalmayo Hot springs – The end of the 3rd day of the Salkantay trek
On Day 4, we begin by exploring the fascinating Llactapata archaeological site. After breakfast, we embark on a trek along ancient Inca trails, taking in breathtaking views of the surrounding landscapes. Llactapata, with its historic ruins and panoramic vistas, offers a unique glimpse into Inca history.
Following our visit to Llactapata, we continue our trek towards Aguas Calientes. This scenic walk takes us through lush jungle and past beautiful ecological farms. The trek offers occasional glimpses of wildlife and stunning waterfalls along the way.
We expect to arrive in Aguas Calientes in the late afternoon. Here, you’ll check into a comfortable hostel for the night. In the evening, we’ll gather at a local restaurant for a delicious dinner and to discuss our exciting plans for the next day’s visit to Machu Picchu.
zipline, climbing rock, and suspension bridge in the Salkantay trek.
Suspension bridge in the Salkantay trek to Machu Picchu.
We start our day early at 4:00 am, preparing for the ascent to Machu Picchu. The trek follows an ascending path through the high jungle, allowing us to reach Machu Picchu in time for the spectacular sunrise.
After passing through the entrance control around 6:00 am, our group will enjoy a private, 2-hour guided tour of the Inca citadel. Following the tour, you’ll have free time to explore Machu Picchu at your own pace.
At 11:30 am, we’ll begin our return journey, walking for about 3.5 hours to the Hydroelectric Station. There, our bus will be ready to take us back to Cusco, arriving around 10:00 pm.
Note 1: For an additional $25, you can choose to spend an extra night in Aguas Calientes. This option is ideal if you wish to hike Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain the following day.
Note 2: Alternatively, you can opt for a train return. With this option, you can enjoy more time in Machu Picchu until 5:00 pm. The train ride from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo takes 1 hour and 40 minutes. From there, a car will transport you back to Cusco, dropping you off at San Francisco Square (just 2 blocks from the main square) around 10:00 pm. The train offers a quicker, more comfortable journey with stunning views along the way.
Machu Picchu.
Minivan to return from Machu Picchu, you can also return by train (Optional).
We offer daily departures for the Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu. The weather is generally dry throughout the year. However, between December and April, you might encounter occasional rain showers, though these are usually brief.
Machu Picchu, llactapata mountain, and the hot springs are located on the other side of the Andes Mountains, where temperatures are milder, around 25°C during the day and 13°C at night. In contrast, the initial part of the Salkantay Trek can be quite cold, with temperatures dropping to 12°C during the day and 2°C at night. Therefore, it’s essential to pack both summer and winter clothing. Chat with us to know about the Peruvian weather.
Machu Picchu offers several fascinating destinations, including Machu Picchu Mountain, Huayna Picchu Mountain, the Inca Bridge, and the Sun Gate. Note that entry to Machu Picchu Mountain and Huayna Picchu requires advance booking, while the Inca Bridge and Sun Gate are accessible without a reservation. Chat here to learn more about the destinations within Machu Picchu.
Although Machu Picchu was not the main city of the Inca Empire, it served as a sacred site for New Year celebrations. To understand the full context of Inca history, consider visiting Cusco, the former capital of the Inca Empire. Click here to explore the destinations in Cusco. The Incas also developed the Sacred Valley, Click here for more on the Sacred Valley, before constructing Machu Picchu and the Inca Trail. Visiting these destinations beforehand will enhance your appreciation of Machu Picchu.
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