Experience the 5-day Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu with Salkantay Trekking. Hike scenic trails, explore Humantay Lake, visit Inca ruins, and witness Machu Picchu’s splendor. Stay in beautiful, private domes, enjoy expert guides, delicious meals, and the adventure of a lifetime in Peru.
Transfers on days 1 and 5 (only on day 5 if you have the train of 14:55h, by default you do).
Train ticket from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo.
Pack mules for baggage (up to 7 kg).
Excluded on the 5-day Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu with Salkantay Trekking trip
Sleeping bag (rental: $25).
Walking sticks (rental: $25).
Entry to Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain ($60 each).
Train from Hidroelectrica to Aguas Calientes ($37).
Lunch in Aguas Calientes and dinner in Cusco (Day 5).
Personal gear and clothing.
Travel insurance.
Tips for staff.
What to bring on 5-day Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu with Salkantay Trekking
Essentials
Valid passport.
Extra money (soles recommended).
Personal medications.
Water bottle or CamelBak.
Sunscreen (SPF 70+), insect repellent.
Clothing
Waterproof hiking boots.
Trekking pants, thermal wear, rain poncho.
Warm and waterproof jackets.
Gloves, wool hat, sun hat.
Equipment
Sleeping bag (-15°C).
Trekking poles.
Medium backpack (15-25L).
Recommended
Camera, power bank, flashlight.
Snacks, bathing suit, towel.
Description of 5-day Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu with Salkantay Trekking
The 5-day Salkantay Trek with Salkantay Trekking is a perfect choice for adventure seekers looking to explore Peru’s natural beauty, rich culture, and one of the world’s most famous landmarks: Machu Picchu. This trek offers more time to enjoy the journey, with lower daily distances, diverse landscapes, and premium service along the way.
Operated by Salkantay Trekking, one of Peru’s most respected trekking companies, this tour includes high-comfort dome camps, expert guides, delicious meals, and a responsible approach to nature and local communities. You’ll hike from the high Andes to the jungle, experience the legendary Salkantay Pass, and arrive at Machu Picchu feeling accomplished and inspired.
Day 1 of the 5-day Salkantay Trek with Salkantay Trekking: Journey to the Jewel of the Mountains
Scenic start
Begin your journey with a scenic drive from Cusco to Challacancha. From there, hike to Soraypampa with amazing views of snowy mountains and green valleys.
Humantay Lake
In the afternoon, visit the beautiful turquoise Humantay Lake. It’s located at the base of a glacier and is considered a sacred place by locals. The hike offers peace, fresh air, and great photos.
Night at Sky Camp
Sleep in a unique glass dome at Sky Camp in Soraypampa. Enjoy a warm meal and watch the stars in the clear mountain sky.
Day 2: Conquer the Salkantay Pass
Reach the highest point
After breakfast, hike the famous “Path of the 7 Snakes” to the Salkantay Pass, the highest point of the trek at 4,630 m (15,190 ft). Enjoy stunning views of the mighty Salkantay mountain and surrounding glaciers.
Into the cloud forest
After a break at the pass, hike downhill into the cloud forest. The scenery changes from rocky slopes to lush greenery. Spend the night in the tropical valley at Collpapampa.
Day 3 of the 5-day Salkantay Trek with Salkantay Trekking: Into the Jungle
Jungle walk
Hike through the Santa Teresa Valley, filled with waterfalls, birds, and fruit trees. You’ll pass coffee, banana, and avocado farms as you head deeper into the jungle.
Coffee tour
Visit an organic coffee farm, taste fresh coffee, and learn about local farming traditions. It’s a great cultural experience and a relaxing part of the trek.
Jungle Domes
Spend the night in Jungle Domes—comfortable dome tents located in nature. Fall asleep to the peaceful sounds of the rainforest.
Day 4 of the 5-day Salkantay Trek with Salkantay Trekking: First View of Machu Picchu
Ancient Inca Trail
Today you hike part of the original Inca Trail. Reach the Llactapata ruins for a distant view of Machu Picchu from a rarely seen angle.
Arrival in Aguas Calientes
Descend through the jungle to Hidroelectrica, then continue to Aguas Calientes. You can walk or take the train. Rest in a hotel and prepare for the big day.
Day 5: The Highlight – Machu Picchu
Explore Machu Picchu
Wake up early and visit Machu Picchu with your guide. Learn the stories, visit sacred temples and terraces, and enjoy the peaceful morning light before the crowds arrive.
Optional hikes
Choose to hike Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain for amazing views (limited availability, book in advance).
Return to Cusco
After lunch in Aguas Calientes, take the train to Ollantaytambo and travel back to Cusco by private transport.
Why choose the 5-day Salkantay Trek with Salkantay Trekking?
Slower pace and shorter daily distances than the 4-day version
Stay in Sky Domes, Mountain Sky View, and Jungle Domes
Professional English-speaking guides and small group sizes
Gourmet meals made with fresh ingredients
Eco-friendly and socially responsible practices
Full support with briefing, transport, and Machu Picchu tickets
Background information about the 5-day Salkantay Trek with Salkantay Trekking
Humantay Lake: The turquoise lake gets its color from glacial minerals. It is considered sacred by locals and used in Andean rituals.
Salkantay Mountain: One of the tallest peaks in Peru, its name means “Savage Mountain” in Quechua, representing its strong and wild nature.
Llactapata ruins: These Inca ruins offer a rare view of Machu Picchu and were used as a resting place for travelers on the Inca Trail.
Santa Teresa coffee: The coffee from this region is known for its smooth flavor and quality, and is exported around the world.
What to expect on your Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu
This trek crosses high mountain passes and lush cloud forests. Any time of the year, weather can affect trail conditions and the comfort of lodges along the way. Trails may be muddier, steeper, or more slippery, and in rare cases, the route may need to be changed for safety reasons. We always aim to book lodges in good condition, but during the rainy season, some humidity or moisture may still be present. We want you to feel well-informed and well-prepared before starting your trek. If you have any questions or doubts, feel free to ask us — we’re here to help.
Please note: Any missed sections of the trek — for personal, weather-related, or logistical reasons — are non-refundable. If you decide to skip part of the trek (for example, to arrive earlier in Aguas Calientes to purchase a Machu Picchu ticket), this is your own responsibility. Transport, logistics, and any coordination related to this decision are not included in the tour.
Book your 5-day Salkantay Trek with Salkantay Trekking
The 5-day Salkantay Trek with Salkantay Trekking is perfect if you want to fully enjoy the landscapes, culture, and comfort of a longer and more relaxed trekking experience. It’s one of the best alternative routes to Machu Picchu. Book now and secure your place for this unforgettable journey.
