Salkantay classic trek Overview

The Salkantay classic trek is probably the most popular alternative route to the Inca Trail that Cusco has to offer.

These 5 days and 4 nights hike to Machupicchu has a breathtaking landscape that crosses from the snowcapped peaks to the rain forest. The tour starts in Cusco city with a transportation until Mollepata town where the hike starts until arriving at the first campsite located close to the famous Humantay Lake, the second day is the biggest day where will cross the Salkantay Pass 15000 fts, the campsite is located in the cloud forest, the next day will be all the time in the forest with a totally different landscape and view, the next day is the arrival to Aguas Calientes town where you will spend a night in one of our hotels to finally get Machu Picchu on the last day before coming back to Cusco.

First day: Cusco – Mollepata – Soraypampa – Humantay Lake – Salkantaypampa

Second day: Salkantaypampa – Salkantay Pass – Wayraqmachay – Colpa Pampa

Third day: Colpa Pampa – Playa Sahuayacu

Fourth day: Playa Sahuayacu – Llactapata – Hidroeléctrica – Aguas Calientes

Fifth day: Guided Tour of Machu Picchu – Train back to Cusco

Detailed itinerary of Salkantay classic trek

Day 1: Cusco – Mollepata – Soraypampa – Humantay Lake – Salkantaypampa

We depart at 05:00 am from Cusco! After a hearty breakfast in Mollepata, we head to Soraypampa (3,900 masl). The first challenge: a 1.5-hour hike to the imposing Humantay Lake, a hypnotic turquoise gem at the foot of the glacier. After capturing surreal photos, we descend for a comforting lunch in Soraypampa. With renewed energy, we begin a 2-3 hour trek with stunning views of the majestic Salkantay Mountain, advancing to our campsite at Salkantaypampa (4,200 masl). A restorative dinner under a starry sky prepares us for the epic Salkantay Pass trek the next day. An intense and unforgettable journey!
– Campsite: Salkantaypampa 4200 m / 13780 ft
– Distance: 14 km / 8.7 mi (total hiked)
– Highest point: Humantay Lake 4230 m / 13880 ft

Day 2: Salkantaypampa – Salkantay Pass – Wayraqmachay – Colpa Pampa

The epic day has arrived! After an energizing breakfast at Salkantaypampa (4,200 masl), we begin our challenging ascent to the majestic Salkantay Pass (4,630 masl), the highest point of our journey, where breathtaking panoramic views of the glaciers await. We then descend to Wayraqmachay for a well-deserved lunch, regaining strength as the landscape transforms into a green valley. The afternoon hike continues to our campsite at Colpa Pampa (2,850 masl), where a comforting dinner and warmer climate provide the perfect rest after a day of unforgettable achievements.
– Campsite: Colpapampa 3000 m / 9840 ft.
– Distance: 22 km / 13.7 mi
– Highest point: Salkantay Pass 4630 m / 15190 ft

Day 3: Colpa Pampa – Playa Sahuayacu

Awakened by the sounds of the cloud forest, we begin our most biodiverse day! We trek downhill through lush coffee and fruit plantations, crossing crystal-clear waterfalls and wild orchids. The trail follows the roaring Salkantay River, offering constant immersion in jungle beauty. We’ll visit a local family to learn about organic coffee production and enjoy a fresh brew. After a scenic lunch, a short walk brings us to our unique accommodation at Playa Sahuayacu, where you can relax in hammocks, take a refreshing swim, and share stories of the adventure under a new, star-filled jungle sky.
– Campsite: Playa Sahuayacu 1900 m / 6230 ft
– Distance: 16 km / 10 mi
– Highest point: Colpa Pampa 3000 m / 9840 ft

Day 4: Playa Sahuayacu – Llactapata – Hidroeléctrica – Aguas Calientes

The final trekking leg unveils a lost treasure! An early ascent through dense jungle rewards us with a breathtaking, exclusive view of Machu Picchu from the ancient Llactapata ruins. Soak in this magical, crowd free moment before our thrilling descent to the Hidroeléctrica station. Here, we share a heartfelt farewell with our incredible trekking crew, whose dedication made this adventure possible. Then, we begin the final walk along the spectacular train tracks, a unique path that winds alongside the Urubamba River, leading us directly into the heart of Aguas Calientes, where you’ll check into your hotel with the thrilling anticipation of tomorrow’s grand finale: the Citadel of Machu Picchu.
– Overnight: Aguas Calientes 2040 m / 6690 ft
– Distance: 18 km / 11.2 mi
– Highlight: Llactapata’s panoramic view of Machu Picchu

Day 5: Guided Tour of Machu Picchu – Train back to Cusco

Today is the highlight of the Salkantay classic trek. You will have breakfast at your hotel, and then your tour guide will pick you up and take you to the bus station, where you’ll board the bus that will take you up to the majestic Machu Picchu.
The visit will begin early, filled with the excitement of exploring one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. Once there, you’ll enjoy a guided walking tour of approximately 2.5 hours, discovering the fascinating history, temples, terraces, and breathtaking views of this sacred site. Please remember to bring your valid passport for entry into Machu Picchu.
After this unforgettable experience, you’ll take the bus back down to Aguas Calientes for lunch, collect your bags from the hotel, and then board the train back to Cusco or Ollantaytambo. Upon arrival, a Kaypi Peru Tours representative will be waiting to transfer you to your hotel in Cusco.

Our Salkantay Classic trek included

Professional, bilingual tour guide.

Assistant guide.

Pick up from the hotel.

Return transportation (bus to start of trail and tourist train back to Ollanta).

Entrance fee to Machu Picchu.

1 Bus ticket up to the Machu Picchu world heritage site.

4 breakfasts, 4 lunches, 4-afternoon snacks (hot drinks, biscuits, and popcorn) and 3 dinners. If you have a dietary request such as vegetarian food please let us know.

Dining tent with tables and chairs.

Chef

4 man tents are provided for 2 people only.

Sleeping mattresses.

Horseman and mules (they carry cooking and camping equipment)

1 night’s accommodation in Aguas Calientes.

Extra oxygen.

First-Aid kit.

A spare blanket per tent.

Toilet tent

Hot portable shower

Not Included but you can get from us

Entrances to Huayna Picchu Mountain (need to book in advance)

Entrances to Machu Picchu Mountain (need to book in advance)

Sleeping Bag

Walking sticks

What is not included:

Breakfast on Day 1 and lunch and dinner on Day 5

Water, (during the first 4 hours, after that, our team will provide you)

Tips

Travel Insurance – you are strongly recommended to take out travel insurance for the duration of your trip.

Alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages.

Laundry.

Best Price:

649.00

Price based in double occupancy

Travel Date

Nº Passport	Name	Midle Name	Last Name	Gender	Country	Date of Birth

Salkantay classic trek to Machu Picchu 5 days