5 Day Salkantay Trek​ – Salkantay Trek 5 Days Tour

We will leave Cusco early in the morning and enjoy a scenic 2-hour drive to Mollepata. The Andes will surround us as we travel through valleys and villages. Upon arrival, we will have a hearty breakfast in the town. Our guide will share stories about the region and prepare us for the trek ahead.

From Mollepata, we will start hiking from Challacancha toward Soraypampa. The trail will climb gently, giving us incredible views of snow-capped peaks. Along the way, we will see local farms and Andean communities. We will stop for a picnic lunch and enjoy the crisp mountain air.

In the afternoon, we will hike to Humantay Lake, famous for its turquoise waters. We will take photos and enjoy the peaceful surroundings. The guide will explain the cultural significance of the lake to the local communities. After exploring, we will descend slightly and reach Sky Camp in Soraypampa.

At the camp, we will settle into our tents and enjoy a warm dinner. Nights in the Andes will be calm, and the sky full of stars will amaze us. We will rest and recharge for the next day’s adventure.

Day 1 statistics: 

• Distance: 12 km
• Highest altitude: 4,300 meters above sea level at Humantay Lake
• Lowest altitude: 2,900 meters above sea level in Mollepata
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Route: Challacancha → Soraypampa → Humantay Lake → Sky Camp

We will wake early, enjoy breakfast, and prepare for the toughest day of the trek. Today we will climb toward the Salkantay Pass, the trek’s highest point at 4,650 meters. The views will be breathtaking, with snow-capped peaks stretching in every direction. We will stop for coca tea to energize ourselves.

The trail will wind through valleys and rocky landscapes. We will see glaciers and alpine lakes along the way. Our guide will explain the geology and ecology of the region. Lunch will take place in Huayraq Machay, surrounded by serene Andean scenery.

In the afternoon, we will descend gradually into the cloud forest. The air will feel warmer and the landscape lush with moss, orchids, and waterfalls. We will notice the sounds of birds and small animals. Each step will reveal new flora and fauna.

We will arrive at Collpapampa, a cozy campsite in the cloud forest. Tents will be ready, and dinner will include local dishes. Nights will be filled with jungle sounds and fresh mountain air.

Day 2 statistics: 

• Distance: 16 km
• Highest altitude: 4,650 meters above sea level at Salkantay Pass
• Lowest altitude: 3,100 meters above sea level at Collpapampa
• Difficulty: High
• Route: Soraypampa → Salkantay Pass → Huayraq Machay → Collpapampa

We will start the day with breakfast at the camp. The trail will lead us into the lush upper jungle, where the temperature and vegetation change noticeably. We will see a variety of orchids, bromeliads, and tropical plants. Bird calls and jungle sounds will accompany our hike.

The path will descend to La Playa, where we will stop for lunch. Here, rivers and small streams will give us refreshing views. Our guide will explain the importance of this area for local agriculture and wildlife. We will also visit the Santa Teresa hot springs to relax and enjoy a soothing soak.

After lunch, we will continue hiking toward Lucmabamba. The trail will pass through coffee and fruit plantations, showing the region’s agricultural life. We will have time to explore the village and observe local traditions. The camp will be located in Jungle Domes, offering comfort amid nature.

Evening activities will include a delicious dinner and free time to enjoy the sounds of the jungle. We will admire the sunset over the forest canopy. Nights here will be warm and peaceful.

Day 3 statistics: 

• Distance: 14 km
• Highest altitude: 3,200 meters above sea level at Collpapampa
• Lowest altitude: 1,700 meters above sea level at La Playa
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Route: Collpapampa → La Playa → Lucmabamba → Jungle Domes

We will wake early and enjoy breakfast at the camp. The morning air will feel fresh and warm. We will start hiking through the Santa Teresa Valley, surrounded by towering trees and coffee plantations. Our guide will point out local plants and wildlife along the trail.

The path will gradually ascend to Llactapata, a hidden Inca archaeological site. We will explore terraces, stone walls, and viewpoints overlooking Machu Picchu. The panoramic views will allow us to see the citadel from afar. Our guide will share stories about the Inca’s engineering skills.

After exploring Llactapata, we will descend to Hidroeléctrica for lunch. The trail will follow the train tracks, giving scenic jungle views. We will spot rivers, small waterfalls, and abundant birdlife along the way. This section will be perfect for photography and nature observation.

In the afternoon, we will continue toward Aguas Calientes, either walking three more hours or taking the train. Once we arrive, we will check into a cozy hotel with private rooms. Dinner will be served at a local restaurant. We will rest and prepare for the Machu Picchu visit early the next day.

Day 4 statistics: 

• Distance: 16 km (walking option)
• Highest altitude: 2,100 meters above sea level at Llactapata
• Lowest altitude: 1,200 meters above sea level at Hidroeléctrica
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Route: Lucmabamba → Llactapata → Hidroeléctrica → Aguas Calientes

We will wake very early for the bus ride up to Machu Picchu. Morning light will illuminate the citadel and surrounding peaks. A professional tour guide will lead a two-hour guided tour. We will explore temples, terraces, and plazas while learning Inca history and traditions.

After the guided tour, we will climb Machu Picchu Mountain for more breathtaking views. From the summit, we will see the Urubamba River winding through the valley below. The panoramic scenery will create perfect photo opportunities. We will take our time enjoying the atmosphere and capturing memories.

In the late morning, we will descend back to Aguas Calientes for lunch. Visitors will have time to explore the town and local markets. Afterwards, we will board the train to Ollantaytambo. The train journey will pass through rivers, forests, and small Andean villages.

From Ollantaytambo, we will take private transport back to Cusco. Along the route, we will reflect on the incredible trek and stunning scenery we witnessed. We will arrive in Cusco in the evening, completing the Salkantay Trek 5 Days Tour with memories that last forever.

Day 5 statistics: 

• Distance: 16 km (walking option)
• Highest altitude: 2,100 meters above sea level at Llactapata
• Lowest altitude: 1,200 meters above sea level at Hidroeléctrica
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Route: Lucmabamba → Llactapata → Hidroeléctrica → Aguas Calientes

We will walk approximately 72 kilometers, traveling through high mountains, valleys, and lush jungle.

We will reach Salkantay Pass at 4,650 meters above sea level. We will take regular breaks.

The trek is moderate to challenging, with daily distances ranging from 12 to 20 kilometers. Altitude adds difficulty.

We will sleep in Sky Camps, Jungle Domes, and a hotel in Aguas Calientes. All are comfortable and safe.

Yes, we will enjoy five breakfasts, four lunches, and four dinners, plus daily snacks and coca tea.

No, mules transport our main luggage. We only carry small daypacks with personal items and essentials.

 It helps to spend a couple of days in Cusco. We also rest and drink coca tea to adjust.

The tour includes entrance to Humantay Lake, Salkantay Trek trails, and Machu Picchu. Our guides manage everything.

We walk in groups, and guides carry first aid kits. They provide constant support throughout the journey.

Yes, we can capture landscapes, wildlife, and historical sites along the route.

We will wear layered clothing, waterproof jackets, hiking boots, hats, and gloves. Weather changes quickly at high altitudes.

Yes, we will travel from Cusco to the trailhead and back from Ollantaytambo after visiting Machu Picchu.

 We will encounter birds, orchids, Andean animals, and possibly spectacled bears in their natural habitat.

Yes, as long as we are in good health and ready for daily walks at high altitude. Guides provide support.