Day 01 Cusco – Mollepata – Challacancha – Soraypampa (Humantay Lagoon)

Humantay Lake - The journey begins early in the morning with a trip to Mollepata for breakfast, followed by a drive to the starting point at Challacancha. After a leisurely two-hour walk, the first campsite at Soraypampa is reached, offering the chance to hike up to Lake Humantay.

Day 02 Soraypampa – Salkantay Pass – Wayracpunku – Chaullay

Salkantay - Following breakfast, the trek continues to the Salkantay Pass (4600m), providing stunning views of the snow-covered Salkantay Peak (6264m). This morning is the most challenging part of the trek, but the effort is rewarding. A stop at the summit is possible, weather permitting. The hike then descends, transitioning from high mountains to lush vegetation. Upon reaching Chaullay (2950m), dinner is served, and the second night is spent at this camp.

Day 03 Chaullay – Colpapampa – La Playa

Banos Termales de Cocalmayo - Day 3 focuses on exploring the region’s flora and plantations. The descent into a rainforest reveals a remarkable variety of orchids, bromeliads, and other plants. The journey continues through coffee and fruit plantations, with opportunities to meet local families, especially at Wiñaypoco (2650m) and La Playa (2100m). Arrival at the La Playa camp is in time for lunch, and the afternoon is free to relax and explore local life.

Day 04 La Playa – Hidroelectrica – Aguas Calientes

Aguas Calientes - After breakfast, a pass at 2950 meters is crossed, offering a stunning view of the Machu Picchu citadel and surrounding peaks on a clear day. The descent leads to the archaeological site of Llactapata, which is visited. After a break, the descent continues for about 2 hours to the hydroelectric power station (Hidroelectrica). From there, an afternoon train is taken to the village of Aguas Calientes.

Day 05 Machu Picchu – Cusco

Santuario Historico de Machu Picchu - At dawn, to experience Machu Picchu with fewer crowds, a shuttle or collective bus is taken to the site entrance for a comprehensive tour of the Incan city, including its agricultural and urban areas and its remarkable mountainside structures. *Additional activities on site: (not included in the package and must be booked in advance) There is an option to add an ascent of Huaynapicchu or Machupicchu, subject to availability. (These mountains are part of the Machupicchu citadel landscape and have different schedules and entrances, as they require more time to climb and visit).

• Private transportation
• Snacks
• Lunch
• Dinner
• Breakfast
• Tea and coffee

• Alcoholic beverages
• Bottled water

The Salkantay trek to Machu Picchu is a popular alternative to the Inca Trail, often regarded by travelers as the best option (and perhaps even better!). This stunning trail is ideal for adventurers looking to immerse themselves daily in ever-changing ecosystems. Hikers will traverse magical and panoramic landscapes, from a snowy mountain paradise to a tropical jungle, where medicinal plants and various flowers can be found. Witness firsthand a vibrant yet ancient culture in remote villages rarely seen by outsiders!

WHY CHOOSE THE SALKANTAY TREK?

The Salkantay Trek is ranked among the top 25 treks in the world by National Geographic Adventure Travel magazine.

Following the Inca Trail, the Salkantay trek is the second most popular trek to Machu Picchu (and much less crowded).

If you cancel at least 6 full day(s) before the scheduled departure time, you will receive a full refund.
If you cancel between 2 and 6 day(s) before the scheduled departure time, you will receive a 50% refund.
If you cancel within 2 day(s) of the scheduled departure, you will receive a 0% refund.