The Salkantay trek to Machu Picchu is one of the most spectacular alternative routes to reach the ancient Inca city. This 5-day path takes you through diverse ecosystems, from Andean glaciers to tropical cloud forest, culminating in one of the wonders of the world: Machu Picchu.

The journey begins at the dazzling Humantay lagoon, then ascends to 4,700 meters next to the majestic Apu Salkantay, you will feel like you can touch the sky with your hands.

As you descend, you will witness how the landscape is dramatically transformed: perpetual ice gives way to lush cloud forests, and further down, you will find yourself surrounded by aromatic coffee plantations and fruit orchards, where you can taste authentic, freshly harvested Peruvian coffee.

The adventure is enriched with a rejuvenating stop at the hot springs of Santa Teresa, a natural oasis that will revitalize your body and spirit. The trip culminates with a journey along the ancient and little-traveled Llactapata trail, which will provide you with the first unforgettable views of Machu Picchu.

From there, you will only have a short walk to reach your final destination: the mythical Inca citadel, one of the wonders of the world that awaits you to reveal its ancient secrets.

 

ITINERARY:

Day 1: CUSCO – MOLLEPATA- CHALLACANCHA – SORAYPAMPA

We begin our adventure at 5:00 AM from Cusco, traveling to Challacancha (3,400m), with a stop in the picturesque town of Mollepata (3,000m). In Challacancha, we will meet with our team of muleteers and trekking staff to begin the hike.

The trail gives us spectacular views of the snow-capped mountains Humantay (5,217m) and Salkantay (6,264m). After a 3-hour hike, we arrive at Soraypampa (3,700m), where we will enjoy a lunch prepared by our mountain chef and set up camp.

The afternoon has a special experience in store for us: the ascent to the Humantay Lagoon (4,220m), a turquoise mirror of water at the foot of the imposing snow-capped mountain of the same name ;

*Transport time: 4 hours.

*Hiking time: 2-3 hours.

*Climate: cold.

Additional option: During the route to Soray Pampa (3900m/12795ft), we suggest taking a 2-hour detour to visit the impressive Humantay Lake (4220m/13845ft) and contemplate the majesty of the snow-capped peak of Humantay.

DAY 2: SORAYPAMPA – SALKANTAY PASS – COLLPAPAMPA

 

After breakfast, we begin the ascent to the highest point of our adventure: the Salkantay Pass (4,600m). From this privileged height, we will contemplate the majesty of the snowy Salkantay (6,264m) in all its splendor. Then, our path gradually descends, revealing how the Andean landscape transforms into tropical forest.

The night awaits us in Collpapampa (3,350m), where we will camp surrounded by exuberant vegetation in a warm and tropical environment.

*Walking time: 10 – 11 hours

*Climate: Warm with mosquitoes.

 

DAY 3: COLLPAPAMPA – WIÑAYPOCO – LUCMABAMBA (DISCOVERING COFFEE PARADISE)

The day begins with a descent through a lush forest, home to colourful orchids and bromeliads. Our route passes through the communities of Wiñaypoco (2,650m), Granadilla (2,100m) and Lucmabamba (2,000m), where the mountains give way to thriving coffee, cocoa and fruit tree plantations.

The afternoon offers us a unique experience: immersion in coffee culture with a local family. You will discover the fascinating process of coffee, from its cultivation to the final cup. You will learn how the plants take between 3 and 4 years to bear their first fruits, and why the harvest is traditionally done by hand, preserving ancestral techniques on these steep Andean slopes. The day ends at our camp in Lucmabamba, where you can share more moments with the local community and delve into the secrets of one of the most prestigious coffees in the world.

*Hiking time: 7 hours.

*Climate: Warm during the day with mosquitoes.

 

Optional: For those who wish to relax their muscles after trekking, we recommend a visit to the Santa Teresa hot springs. If you are interested, check with your guide to coordinate transportation from Lucmabamba (service not included).

 

DAY 4: LUCMABAMBA – LLACTAPATA INCA SITE – MACHU PICCHU VILLAGE

Today’s adventure takes us along a stretch of the authentic Inca Trail to Llactapata (2,650m), an archaeological site that gives us the first spectacular views of Machu Picchu mountain and the imposing Vilcanota Canyon. The trail, surrounded by lush vegetation, connects us with the legacy of the Inca culture.

From here, we descend to the Hydroelectric Station (1,950m) for a well-deserved rest, before continuing our way to Machu Picchu Pueblo (2,050m), where we will spend the night in a hotel.

*Climate: warm with some insects.

*Walking time: 8-9 hours.

*Hotel: In Aguas Calientes.

 

 

Day 5: MACHU PICCHU PUEBLO – MACHU PICCHU

 

We will begin our adventure early, leaving the hotel at 5:30 am to take a tourist bus that will take us to Machu Picchu (2400 m / 7874 ft). Around 6:00 am, we will be entering the majestic Inca citadel, just in time to contemplate how the first rays of the sun illuminate this impressive archaeological site.

During the guided tour, the guide will provide details about the various sectors of Machu Picchu, exploring places such as the Main Plaza, the Intihuatana (sundial), the Temple of the Sun and the agricultural terraces, as well as sharing information about the urban organization and ceremonial relevance of this site, declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO.

Optional: After the tour, you will have free time to continue exploring Machu Picchu or climb Wayna Picchu (2750 m / 9022 ft) on your own, discovering these places at your own pace.

The train departure from Aguas Calientes is scheduled for approximately 16:20 hrs towards the city of Cusco. During this time, you can enjoy lunch at one of the charming restaurants in the area or relax in the local hot springs to close the day with a rejuvenating experience.

 

Estimated walking time: 2 hours.

What do I need to bring? 

*Backpack with rain cover.

*Sleeping bag.

*Warm and cold weather clothing, such as a rain jacket.

*Waterproof pants and light pants.

*Trekking shoes.

*Slippers or sandals (for showers and hot springs).

*Wool or synthetic socks and sweater.

*Long and short sleeved polos/t-shirts.

*Rain poncho and hat.

*Swimsuit (for the Hot Springs in Machu Picchu town).

*Sunscreen, insect repellent, alcohol and disinfectant gel, water bottle.

and sterilizing tablets, toiletries and toilet paper

*Camera (wrapped in a plastic bag).

*Flashlight and batteries.

*Some snacks such as chocolate bars and nuts.

*Original passport, original ISIC student card, and extra money in soles.

*Since the weather can be very cold and humid, clothes, once wet, can become wet. It will not dry overnight. So you must bring some clothes to change into.

 

TREK INCLUDES.

*Briefing time at 6pm in our office 1 or 2 days before your departure date (Must be confirmed at time of booking).

*Private transportation from your hotel in Cusco to Mollepata (Challacancha).

*Transportation from Lucmabamba to the Hydroelectric Power Plant (only for equipment and luggage).

*Tourist train from Machu Picchu town to Ollantaytambo and bus to Cusco.

*Transfers from Ollantaytambo train station to Cusco city.

*Hotel with private room and bathroom in Aguas Calientes village, including breakfast (Coya Palace, Terrazas de la Luna or Flower House).

*Entrance ticket to Salkantay National Park and Machu Picchu.

*Professional bilingual guide (Spanish and English).

*Private camping domes the first night / domes the second night / lodge the 3rd night, 4th night hotel in Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu.

*Cook, cooking equipment, meals (3 breakfasts, 3 lunches and 3 dinners).

*The food includes pancakes, tortillas, soups, fresh fruit and spaghetti, chicken, fish, meat and rice, all rich in carbohydrates and very suitable for trekking. Hot drinks such as coca leaf tea are also included, which is excellent for the altitude. Vegetarian food optional.

*Tea time and snacks every day (tea, coffee, wonton, popcorn, cookies).

*Horseman and mules to carry up to 7kg of personal equipment per client.

*Emergency horse (from Marcoccasa to Chaullay).

*First aid kit and oxygen bottle.

 

Trek does not include:

*Breakfast on the first day and lunch on the last day in the town of Aguas Calientes.

*Tourist Train from the Hydroelectric Power Plant to the town of Aguas Calientes (Walking time in the rainforest for approximately 3 hours).

*Tourist Bus from Machu Picchu to the town of Aguas Calientes (on the way back to Aguas Calientes you can take a walk that takes approximately 1 hour, otherwise you can take a bus with an additional cost of $12.00 per person).

Sleeping bag (If you do not have a sleeping bag, there is the (possibility of renting a good quality one – 10° for $5.00 per day).

 

Important Information for your Trek:

Luggage Transport

*Days 1-3 (Challacancha to Collapapampa):

*Muleteers and mules will transport all camping equipment.

*Personal luggage (maximum 7kg per person).

  Day 4: All luggage will be transported by vehicle to the Hydroelectric Power Station Access to Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain.

*Advance reservation required

*Additional cost: US$65.00

*We guarantee entry (effective as of July 18, 2011)

 

Altitude Preparation

*Arrive at least 48 hours before the start of the trek.

*Contact us immediately upon arrival in Cusco.

 

We will organize a meeting prior to departure Gratuities

*Tips for guides and cooks are appreciated

*Donations welcome:

*Clothing.

*School supplies for staff children.

 

MORE INFORMATION

Distances of the Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu – 5 days

Total distance: approximately 72 km.

Important notes:

*Distances are approximate and may vary depending on the specific route.

*Hiking times are estimated and depend on the pace of the group.

*Prior physical preparation is recommended due to the distances and slopes.

 

Breakdown by day:

Day 1: Cusco – Mollepata – Challacancha – Soraypampa

*Hiking distance: 12 km.

*Approximate time: 6-7 hours.

*Maximum altitude: 3,900 m (Soraypampa).

 

Day 2: soraypampa – salkantay pass – huayracmachay – chaullay

*Hiking distance: 22 km.

*Approximate time: 8-9 hours.

*Maximum altitude: 4,630 m (Salkantay Pass).

*Day 3: Chaullay – Colpapampa – La Playa.

 

Hiking distance: 16 km.

*Approximate time: 6-7 hours

*Average altitude: 2,800 m

 

Day 4: La Playa – Hidroeléctrica – Aguas Calientes

    *Hiking distance: 16 km.

*Approximate time: 6-7 hours.

*Average altitude: 2,000 m.

 

Day 5: Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu – Cusco

*Hiking distance: 6 km (includes exploration of Machu Picchu)

*Approximate time: 4-5 hours in Machu Picchu

*Height: 2,430 m (Machu Picchu)

 

About the Difficulty:

How difficult is the trek?

*Moderate to challenging level

*Highest point: Salkantay Pass (4,630m)

*Good physical condition is recommended

*Previous trekking experience is not mandatory

About altitude

 

How to prevent altitude sickness?

*Acclimatize for at least 2 days in Cusco.

*Stay hydrated.

*Avoid alcohol before and during the trek.

*Walk at a moderate pace.

 

Is oxygen available during the trek?

*Guides carry an oxygen bottle for emergencies

 

About Luggage

What should I bring?

*Small daypack.

*Warm, waterproof clothing.

*Trekking boots

*Sleeping bag (also available for rent)

 

How much luggage can I bring?

*Maximum 7kg per person on mules

*Must carry personal day pack

 

About Food

What meals are included?

*3 meals a day during the trek

*Snacks and water during hikes

 

Can you cater to special diets?

*Vegetarians.

*Vegans.Celiacs (please notify in advance).

 

About Accommodation

Where do we sleep?

*3 nights in camps – 2 nights in domes and 1 night in lodge

*1 night in hostel/hotel in Aguas Calientes village.

 

Additional Services

Can we rent equipment?

*Yes, trekking poles.

*And sleeping bags.

*Emergencies and Safety.

 

Is there communication during the trek?

   *Limited cell phone signal

*Guides with emergency radio

 

What happens if I get sick?

*Established evacuation protocols

*First aid kit.

*Certified first aid guides.

 

SALKANTAY TREK MACHUPICCHU 4 DAYS

The Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu is one of the most spectacular routes in the world, recognized by National Geographic as one of the 25 best hikes on the planet. For 4 days, this adventure will take you from the heights of the snowy Salkantay to the majestic citadel of Machu Picchu, crossing diverse ecosystems and impressive landscapes.

The Salkantay Trek offers you the perfect combination of high mountain challenge and cultural discovery. You will begin your adventure near the imposing Salkantay Snow-capped Mountain (6,264 masl), passing through the beautiful Humantay Lagoon, and then descend through cloud forests full of orchids until you reach the mystical Machu Picchu.

ITINERARY.

Day 1: Cusco – Mollepata – Challacancha – Soraypampa

We begin our adventure leaving Cusco at 5:00 am heading to Challacancha (3,400 masl). On the way, we will cross the town of Mollepata (3,000 masl), where we will make a brief stop. Upon reaching Challacancha, we will meet our muleteers and fellow travelers to begin the hike.

The trail will take us through an impressive valley guarded by majestic snow-capped mountains: Humantay (5,217 masl) and the imposing Salkantay (6,264 masl). Our first adventure ends at the Soraypampa camp (3,700 masl), where we can rest and have lunch.

 

Optional Afternoon Activity:

In the afternoon, we recommend taking an additional hike to the spectacular Humantay lake. This excursion starts from Soraypampa (3,900 masl) to the humantay lake (4,220 masl), with a duration of approximately 3 hours in total. This glacial lagoon offers incomparable views of the Humantay snow-capped mountain and its turquoise waters, being one of the most photogenic points of the tour.

*Climate: cold.

*Transportation time: 4 hours.

*Hiking time: 2-3 hours.

*Extra hike to the lagoon: 3 hours.

 

Day 2: Soraypampa – Salkantay Pass – Collpapampa

We will start the day early with a nutritious breakfast that will prepare us for the most important challenge of the trek: the ascent to the Salkantay Pass, located at an impressive height of 4,600 masl.

From this privileged point, we will be able to contemplate in all its magnificence the majestic snow-capped Salkantay, which rises to 6,264 meters above sea level, being one of the most spectacular points of the entire route.

After reaching the pass and enjoying its panoramic views, we will begin our descent, during which we will witness the dramatic transition of the ecosystem, going from a high mountain environment to an increasingly tropical one.

We end the day by setting up our camp in Collpapampa (3,000 meters above sea level), a site characterized by its warm climate, abundant tropical vegetation and the presence of mosquitoes, so it is recommended to bring repellent.

*Hiking time: 10 – 11 hours.

 

Day 3: Collpapampa – Wiñaypoco – Granadilla – Hydroelectric – Aguas Calientes

We begin the day with breakfast at dawn to begin our descent through a lush forest, home to a rich biodiversity where different species of Andean flora such as orchids, bromeliads and bomareas stand out.

During the tour, we will have the opportunity to interact with the local communities in the village   of Wiñaypoco (2,650 masl) and Granadilla (2,100 masl). Upon arriving in Granadilla, we will board our transport that will take us to the Hydroelectric plant, where we will enjoy lunch.

For the final stretch to Aguas Calientes village, there are two options: continue walking or take the train (optional service not included).

*The journey concludes in the town of Aguas Calientes, where we will stay in a hotel to rest and prepare for the visit to Machu Picchu the next day.  Walking time: 5-6 hours, on a warm, mosquito-filled day

*Transport time: 1h 30min, from La Playa to Hidroeléctrica.

*Hotel: Accommodation in Aguas Calientes

 

DAY 4: AGUAS CALIENTES – MACHU PICCHU – CUSCO | THE GREAT FINAL ADVENTURE

We culminate our adventure with the most anticipated day of the entire tour. At 5:30 am, at dawn, we leave our hotel in Aguas Calientes village to take the bus that will take us to the jewel of the Inca citadel: Machu Picchu. Arriving at dawn will allow us to contemplate how the first rays of the sun gradually reveal the majesty of this sacred city.

In the company of our guide, we will explore the best kept secrets of the Inca civilization as we tour the main attractions of the citadel.

We will discover the perfection of its temples, the uniqueness of its ceremonial altars, its residential areas and the various work zones, all of this framed in a mountainous landscape of incomparable beauty.

After a fascinating immersion in Inca history and culture, we will descend again to Aguas Calientes village, where we will have free time for lunch and do some last minute shopping.

The adventure concludes with our train ride back to Cusco in the afternoon, taking with us not only photographs, but also a deep understanding of one of the most fascinating civilizations in history.

Included:

Transportation.

*Private transportation from the hotel to the town of Mollepata (Challacancha).

*Transportation from Granadilla to the hydroelectric station.

*Bus from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu (round trip).

*Tourist train from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo and bus to Cusco.

*Hotel in Aguas Calientes.

*Entrance to the Salkantay National Park & Machu Picchu.

*Professional bilingual guide (Spanish and English).

*Private camping domes on the first night / domes on the second night / hotel in Aguas Calientes on the third day – Machu Picchu.

*High quality camping equipment.

*Food during the excursion (Breakfast, lunch, dinner and snacks/Vegetarian option)

*Cook and assistant.

*Muleteers and mules.

*Emergency horse

*First aid kit and oxygen bottle.

 

Not included  

*First breakfast and last lunch in Aguas Calientes village on the 4th day.

*Second mini bus to get down.

*Sleeping bag (if you do not have a sleeping bag, there is the possibility of renting one)

*Hiking poles.

*Train from the hydroelectric power station to Aguas Calientes village.

Qual é o nível de dificuldade do Trilho Salkantay?
A Trilha Salkantay é moderada a desafiante. Envolve longas caminhadas pelo terreno
montanhoso e de altitude. Recomenda-se estar em boa forma física e
Aclimate-se à altitude antes de fazer a caminhada.
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2. Quais são as principais atrações do Trilho Salkantay?
A caminhada oferece vistas incríveis dos glaciares do Salkantay coberto de neve, desde a Laguna
Humantay, florestas nubladas, cascatas impressionantes e a chegada ao
majestosa Machu Picchu, um dos locais mais emblemáticos do mundo.
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3.º É necessário estar em boas condições físicas para fazer a caminhada?
Sim, embora não seja necessário ser atleta, é aconselhável estar em boa forma
físico, uma vez que a caminhada implica longas caminhadas e grandes altitudes. É recomendado fazer
Exercícios de preparação como caminhar ou subir escadas antes da viagem.
________________________________________
4.º Qual é a altura do ponto mais alto do Trilho Salkantay?
O ponto mais alto é o Passo Salkantay (4.600 metros acima do nível do mar). É
É importante aclimatar-se adequadamente para evitar problemas de altitude.
________________________________________
5.º Que tipo de alojamento é oferecido durante a caminhada?
O alojamento é em cúpulas e alojamentos. Os serviços são básicos mas confortáveis, com
refeições confecionadas pelos cozinheiros.
________________________________________
6.º Que equipamento devo levar para o Trilho Salkantay?
É imprescindível levar agasalhos, roupa leve para caminhada, botas de trekking
roupa confortável, mochila pequena, lanterna de cabeça, protetor solar, chapéu, repelente
de insetos e uma garrafa de água.
________________________________________
7.º Quão segura é a caminhada?
A Trilha Salkantay é geralmente segura, mas como qualquer caminhada a grande altitude
montanha, é sempre importante seguir as instruções dos guias, ter cuidado
com o clima e a altitude, e esteja preparado para as mudanças no terreno.
________________________________________
8.º A caminhada pode ser feita sem guia?

Não, o Salkantay Trek requer guias profissionais para garantir a segurança,
conformidade com os regulamentos locais e a experiência cultural completa. Os guias
Também conhecem rotas alternativas e podem ajudar em emergências.
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9.º É possível fazer trekking durante todo o ano?
Sim, o Salkantay Trek pode ser feito durante todo o ano. No entanto, a época
A máxima ocorre de maio a outubro, quando as condições meteorológicas são mais estáveis. De
Novembro a abril é a estação das chuvas, o que pode afetar o trekking.
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10.º A que distância fica Machu Picchu do final do Trilho Salkantay?
No final do Trilho Salkantay, os trekkers chegam à cidade de Aguas Calientes (também
conhecido como Machu Picchu Pueblo), onde se apanha um comboio ou autocarro para Machu
Picchu, a cidadela Inca.