Scenic train ride
Enjoy one of the most beautiful train journeys in the world.
TREKS TOUR
Trek to Machu Picchu via the Salkantay Route
Take five days to conquer the Salkantay Trek with hot springs, zip-lining options, and a relaxed arrival at Machu Picchu...
- Train Included
- Expert Guide
- Small Groups
Free Cancellation
From
USD
465
per person
Live the magic
Why you'll love this tour
Explore Machu Picchu
Discover the incredible citadel with an expert local guide.
Unforgettable views
Capture breathtaking panoramic views and unique moments.
Small groups
Personalized attention and a more meaningful experience.
About this tour
Take five days to conquer the Salkantay Trek with hot springs, zip-lining options, and a relaxed arrival at Machu Picchu.
Full description
The five-day Salkantay itinerary spreads the journey across an extra day, allowing better acclimatization and time to enjoy Santa Teresa's hot springs and optional zip-lining. Trek from glacier to jungle at a pace that lets you absorb the changing landscapes.
Humantay Lake, the Salkantay Pass, and coffee plantations frame a route that rivals the Inca Trail for drama without requiring permits. Expert guides, cooks, and muleteers support every step.
The most popular multi-day trek in Cusco for good reason: epic scenery and Machu Picchu combined.
What you'll experience
- Five-day Salkantay route with better pacing
- Humantay Lake and Salkantay Pass
- Hot springs in Santa Teresa
- Optional zip-lining and Llactapata viewpoint
- Sunrise Machu Picchu guided tour
Tour preview
Day-by-day itinerary
Detailed schedule for each day of the tour.
-
Day 1
Drive to Mollepata and hike to Soraypampa (3,800 m). Afternoon ascent to Humantay Lake (4,220 m). Return to Soraypampa camp.
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Day 2
Trek over Salkantay Pass (4,620 m) with views of Apu Salkantay (6,271 m). Descend to Chaullay camp through cloud forest. 21 km, 8–9 hours.
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Day 3
Hike through the high jungle to La Playa, then continue to Santa Teresa. Afternoon hot springs visit. Camp at Santa Teresa.
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Day 4
Optional zip-lining or Llactapata hike. Transport to Hidroeléctrica, then trek to Aguas Calientes along the railway. Hotel overnight.
-
Day 5
Early bus to Machu Picchu for a 3-hour guided tour. Return to Aguas Calientes, train to Ollantaytambo, and transfer to Cusco.
4,800+
Happy travelers
4.9/5
Average rating
15+
Years experience
98%
Would recommend
Meeting point
Pick-up from Cusco city center hotels (5:00 a.m., Day 1)
Why choose Cuzco Travels?
- Local experts Passionate local guides
- Direct operator No intermediaries, better value
- 24/7 support We are here for you always
What's included
- Briefing one night before departure at the offices (18:00 pm).
- Hotel pick-up in Cusco in the morning and transfer to Challacancha.
- 1 night at Salkantay Sky Lodge (double accommodation).
- 1 night in the Andean huts (double accommodation).
- 1 night at the hotel in Aguas Calientes (double accommodation).
- 2.5-inch thick sleeping mat or mattress per person.
- Kitchen tents, dining area with table and chairs.
- Professional guide in Spanish and English.
What's not included
- Entrance fees to Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain ($25 USD each).
- Breakfast on Day 1, lunch on Day 4, and dinner on Day 4.
- Sleeping bag ($15 USD each).
- Bus tickets for the ascent and descent of Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu
- Walking sticks ($10 USD each).
- Hidroeléctricas to Aguas Calientes train ticket ($31 USD).
Travelers love this tour
“The best experience of my life! Everything was perfectly organized.”
— Sarah J. / Canada
Good to know
Before you go
Meeting point
Pick-up from Cusco city center hotels (5:00 a.m., Day 1)
What to bring
- Original passport or ID
- Sunscreen, hat, and sunglasses
- Reusable water bottle
- Light layers for changing mountain weather
- Sturdy hiking boots (broken in)
- Rain jacket or poncho
- Warm fleece for cold nights
- Headlamp and personal snacks
Important notes
- Extra day aids acclimatization; still requires good physical fitness.
- Hot springs entrance fee may not be included.
- Zip-lining is optional with additional cost.
- Book early during peak season (May–September).
Gallery
Tour photos
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FAQ
We answer your questions
Yes, we recommend booking at least 2–4 weeks ahead, especially during peak season (May–September). Train and Machu Picchu entry slots are limited.
The total duration is 5 days / 4 nights. We will send you the detailed itinerary with timings once your booking is confirmed.
Extra day aids acclimatization; still requires good physical fitness.
Hot springs entrance fee may not be included.
Original ID or passport, layered clothing, sunscreen, hat, water, snacks, and comfortable shoes. For high-altitude tours, bring warm layers and a rain poncho.
Free cancellation up to 48 hours before departure
Yes, hotel pick-up in Cusco is included in the tour price.
Yes, we handle private and corporate groups. Message us on WhatsApp for a personalized quote for Salkantay Trek 5 Days.