Compare 5-day Salkantay Treks from our trusted local partners and book with Wander Free Peru – fast replies, personal and honest support, and no extra cost. We reserve your Machu Picchu ticket right away to avoid sold-out dates.
KB
Adventures
Price including Machu Picchu ticket (adult) and return by train: $340
PREMIUM
TOUR OPERATOR
Salkantay
Trekking
Price including Machu Picchu ticket (adult) and return by train: $650
Why book your 5-day Salkantay Trek with Wander Free Peru?
When you compare 5-day Salkantay Treks through Wander Free Peru, you don’t just choose from our partners. You also get expert service, quick answers, and personal support to help you prepare with confidence.
Booking through us costs the same as booking directly with the operator — but with extra service and personal support included.
We’re based in Peru, we do the treks ourselves and know the region inside out. That means honest advice, local tips, and smooth coordination.
We reply quickly to all your questions and guide you before, during and after your trip — in English, Dutch, or Spanish.
We secure your Machu Picchu entrance as soon as you book, so you won’t miss out due to sold-out dates.
We work with two trusted local partners: KB Adventures, and Salkantay Trekking. You pick your favorite — we handle the rest.
Accommodations KB Adventures
Day 1 – Soraypampa
Day 2 – Colcapampa
Day 3 – Lucmabamba
Accommodations Salkantay Trekking
Day 1 – Soraypampa
Day 2 – Colcapampa
Day 3 – Lucmabamba
Salkantay Trekking offers a more comfortable and high-quality trekking experience than KB Adventures. Here’s what sets them apart:
- Stunning glass domes with panoramic mountain views
See the Salkantay Trekking accommodations here - Specialized knowledge of the Salkantay route
Their team has deeper expertise about the trail, local conditions, and unique highlights along the way. - First-aid certified guides
All guides are professionally trained and carry medical kits with supplies for altitude sickness, wounds, and stomach issues. - 3-star hotel in Aguas Calientes
The final night in Aguas Calientes includes a stay in a comfortable 3-star hotel with a hot shower and private bathroom. - Extras included
Drinking water, daily snacks (chocolate, cookies, fresh fruit), a rain poncho, and a backpack cover are all provided - Exclusively experienced local guides
They only work with trusted, local, very experienced guides. Not a young student, unexperienced to lead a group. - Fresher, more diverse meals
Meals are prepared by professional local chefs using fresh ingredients and traditional Peruvian recipes. Also, any diet will be fully accommodated. - Smaller group sizes
Groups are usually limited to about 8 people for a more personal experience and better guidance. - Commitment to sustainable tourism
Their team is fairly paid and in time, provided with health insurance, and supported year-round. They also receive the correct gear for doing the trek. - Ethical treatment of pack animals
Horses and mules are well cared for and never overloaded
Frequently asked questions about the Salkantay Trek
The Salkantay trek starts in the village of Soraypampa or Challacancha, after a 2-hour drive from Cusco. All of our Salkantay trek tours include early morning pickup from your accommodation in Cusco.
The best time to do the Salkantay Trek is during the dry season from April to October. These months offer clearer skies, better views, and safer trail conditions. The wet season (November to March) brings heavy rain and muddy trails. However, it will be less crowded on the trail during these months. If you’re comparing different departures, be sure to compare 5-day Salkantay Treks during this season for availability and best experience.
The classic Salkantay Trek is 5 days and 4 nights, covering approximately 70 to 75 km. There’s also a shorter 4-day option available, but it skips some parts of the trail. If you have time, we recommend doing the 5-day Salkantay trek.
The Salkantay Trek is considered quite challenging. You’ll hike at high altitude (up to 4,650 m), over mountain passes and through varied terrain. Good fitness and acclimatization are important, but it’s doable for most healthy travelers. For the first and second day it’s possible to rent a horse/donkey to reach the highest point, the Salkantay pass. If you’re unsure which pace suits you, feel free to compare 5-day Salkantay Treks with different group sizes and comfort levels on our site.
The highest point is the Salkantay Pass at 4,650 meters (15,255 ft). You will reach this point on the second day. The highest point on the first day is Lake Humantay, at 4,200m. You’ll also sleep at high altitude during the first night, around 3,800 meters.
Prices range from around $230 to $700 USD, depending on the operator, what is included, level of comfort (e.g. huts vs. luxury domes), group size and return by train or bus. At Wander Free Peru, you can compare our trusted 5-day Salkantay Trek options and book at no extra cost. At Wander Free Peru, you can compare 5-day Salkantay Treks from multiple trusted partners, all in one place — and at no extra cost.
Yes, it’s possible to hike the Salkantay Trek without a guide, since no permits are required. However, the route is long and remote, so going with an organized tour is safer, easier, and includes transport, food, accommodation, and Machu Picchu entry. Also, with a group is just much more fun! Looking to save some costs? Our cheapest 5-day Salkantay trek including your Machu Picchu ticket, only costs $270.
Prepare with cardio and leg strength training like hiking, running, or cycling. Try doing long walks (10–15 km) with a daypack. If possible, train at altitude. Staying active in the weeks before your trek helps a lot. In addition, make sure to have spend multiple days on high altitude before doing the trek. For example in Cusco, Huaraz, Puno or Bolivia.
Essential items include:
- Layered clothing for cold nights and warm days
- Rain jacket and waterproof gear
- Hiking boots (well broken-in)
- Sunscreen, sunglasses, and hat
- Reusable water bottle
- Snacks, personal meds, and altitude tablets
- Passport (needed for Machu Picchu)
- Small daypack (our operators offer a duffel bag for horses. they will carry up to 7kg for you.)
Our tour pages include a packing list — and some items like sleeping bags and walking sticks can be rented.
Overall itinerary for the 5-day Salkantay trek to Machu Picchu, 4 nights
Day 1: Cusco to Soraypampa and Humantay Lake
- Start your journey: The guide picks you up around 4am from your accommodation in Cusco and drive to Mollepata, a charming Andean village where the 5-day Salkantay trek to Machu Picchu begins.
- Hike to Soraypampa: Enjoy a scenic trail with stunning views of valleys and snow-capped peaks.
- Humantay Lake: Take a short hike to this crystal-clear turquoise lake, nestled beneath the towering mountains.
- Overnight stay: Settle into your cozy stay at the base of the mighty Salkantay Mountain.
Day 2 of 5-day Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu: Soraypampa to Salkantay Pass and Chaullay/Colcapampa
- Hike Salkantay Pass, highest point: Hike up to the Salkantay Pass (4,650m/15,255ft), the highest point of the 5-day Salkantay trek to Machu Picchu. The panoramic views of snow-capped peaks are incredible.
- Descend: Descend into the cloud forest, noticing how the scenery transforms from mountain to jungle.
- Overnight stay at Chaullay/Colcapampa: Relax at your peaceful stay surrounded by nature.
Day 3: Chaullay/Colcapampa to Lucmabamba
- Enter the jungle: Hike through vibrant tropical forests filled with exotic plants, coffee farms, and waterfalls.
- Taste the local coffee flavor: Visit a small coffee farm to learn about traditional Peruvian coffee production and sample a freshly brewed cup.
- Optional: visit natural hot springs: Free time to explore or visit Santa Teresa hot springs
- Overnight stay at Lucmabamba: Rest in a jungle setting in jungle domes, preparing for the next day.
Day 4: Lucmabamba to Llactapata and Aguas Calientes
- Discover the first Inca ruïnes: Trek to the Llactapata archaeological, Inca site, offering the first incredible views of Machu Picchu from a unique perspective.
- Descend to Hydroelectric Station: From Llactapata, hike down to the station, where you’ll walk to Aguas Calientes, the gateway to Machu Picchu.
- Stay in Aguas Calientes: Enjoy the comfort of a hotel as you anticipate the final highlight of the 5-day Salkantay trek to Machu Picchu.
Last day of 5-day Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu: Machu Picchu
- Early morning visit: Take the first bus up or walk 2 hours up to Machu Picchu to catch the sunrise over this ancient Inca city—a truly magical experience.
- Explore Machu Picchu with a guide: Enjoy a guided tour of Machu Picchu, learning about its fascinating history and architectural marvels.
- Return to Cusco: After an unforgettable visit, take the train back to Cusco.