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You don’t need to break the bank to live the adventure of a lifetime. The Classic Salkantay Trek 5 days to Machu Picchu is the alternative route backpackers swear by: no impossible permits, no crowds, just you, snow-capped mountains, tropical jungle, and the ultimate reward of reaching Machu Picchu feeling like a real explorer.
Challenging
Hike, Camping, Culture Adventure
4600 meters
08pp Average.16ppl Max
The Salkantay Trek 5 Days is an adventure like no other. You go through mountains, jungles, and all kinds of places that feel like they’re out of a movie. This trek is a bit longer and tougher than some others, but it’s worth every step. Each day brings something new, and by the end, you’ll feel like you’ve really accomplished something big.
On the first day, it starts easy. You walk through wide open fields, and the mountains look huge all around you. But don’t get too relaxed, because by the second day, the real challenge begins. That’s when you start the climb up to Salkantay Pass. It’s hard, and the air gets thin, but when you reach the top, it feels amazing. The view is unbelievable, and you’ll forget how tired you are.
Day three is different. The trek takes you down into warmer, greener areas. You leave the high mountains behind and enter a more tropical place. It’s like the world changes in just one day. You’ll pass through forests and see rivers, and it’s a nice break after the tough climb.
By the fourth day, the trail starts getting closer to Machu Picchu. You feel the excitement as you get near. The path gets easier, and the views are still great. You walk past small towns and get a sense of how the locals live. It’s a good time to catch your breath and get ready for the big moment.
Finally, on the last day, you make it to Machu Picchu. After five days of hiking, it’s the perfect way to end the trek. The feeling when you see the ancient city is hard to describe. You stand there and realize that all the effort was worth it. The 5 day Salkantay Trek is not just about the destination, but the journey itself.
Sites to visit:
Important Information:
The Classic Salkantay trek 5 days does not require permits, making it a flexible and less crowded alternative. Campsite locations may vary depending on weather conditions and group pacing, ensuring safety and optimal experience.
You’ll enter Machu Picchu via Aguas Calientes, and your guided tour will follow circuit number 3, as per updated regulations by the Peruvian government. Make sure to take your iconic photo from the viewpoints before entering the lower circuit.
Please note that groups may consist of travelers with varied hiking experience. Our professional guides are trained to support everyone along the way, offering assistance, cultural insights, and ensuring a fulfilling trek. For a more personalized journey, we offer private group options, feel free to contact us to customize your experience!
1. Majestic Salkantay Peak Elevation: 6,271 meters (20,574 feet) The trek begins with breathtaking views of the snow-capped Salkantay Mountain, one of the highest peaks in the Andes. Its towering presence and glacier-covered slopes create a dramatic and awe-inspiring start to the adventure.
2. High-altitude Pass Salkantay Pass: 4,630 meters (15,190 feet) The trek crosses the challenging Salkantay Pass, offering panoramic views of surrounding peaks and valleys. It’s the highest point on the trek and a significant achievement for hikers.
3. Diverse Ecosystems: Experience a dramatic shift in landscapes, from the rugged high-altitude terrain of the Andes to lush cloud forests and subtropical jungles. This diverse range of ecosystems provides a rich variety of flora and fauna.
4. Scenic Valleys and Rivers: Trek through picturesque valleys and alongside roaring rivers like the Salkantay and Urubamba, with stunning natural scenery that includes cascading waterfalls and vibrant plant life.
5. Local Andean Villages: Pass through traditional Andean villages where you can interact with local communities and learn about their customs, culture, and way of life.
6. Lush Cloud Forest: As you descend, enjoy the lush, green cloud forest environment, teeming with unique wildlife and exotic plants. This area is known for its biodiversity and serene atmosphere.
7. Santa Teresa Hot Springs: Relax in the natural hot springs of Santa Teresa, offering a soothing and rejuvenating experience after several days of trekking.
8. Arrival at Machu Picchu: Conclude your trek with a stunning arrival at Machu Picchu, the iconic Inca citadel. Explore its ancient ruins and marvel at its architectural genius and historical significance. Sunrise views are particularly spectacular.
9. Unique Cultural Experiences: Enjoy a rich blend of cultural experiences, including traditional ceremonies, local cuisine, and stories from indigenous guides who share their deep connection to the land and its history.
We’ll kick off early, around 4 AM, picking you up from your hotel. After that, it’s about a 4-hour drive, passing through Anta and Mollepata, and ending up in Challacancha. Trust me, you’ll want to keep an eye out during the drive – you’ll get some amazing views of the snow-covered mountains, Salkantay and Humantay, towering over everything. These mountains were gods to the Incas, and it’s easy to see why. The scenery along the way is pretty mind-blowing, with peaks and valleys everywhere you look.
We’ll take a quick break in Mollepata after a couple of hours to use the bathroom, check out some local shops, and maybe grab a light breakfast. Then it’s off to Challacancha, where our trek really begins. We’ll meet the support crew there, who’ll get everything organized, and by around 9:30 AM, we’ll start hiking toward Soraypampa, where we’ll camp for the night.
The trail takes us across valleys and along the side of a mountain. You’ll even spot an old aqueduct still bringing water to farmers down below. After about 3 hours of hiking (around 7 km or 4.35 miles), we’ll reach Soraypampa for lunch. After a break, we’ll hike up to Humantay Lake – and trust me, the lake is out of this world. The water is a crazy blue-green, and it reflects the mountain glaciers perfectly. It’s like stepping into a postcard.
Back at camp, the sunset over the valley is something you’ll never forget. As night falls, the sky is so clear, you can see every star, and if you’re lucky, maybe even a shooting star or two. It’s peaceful and quiet, a perfect moment to relax and just enjoy being away from everything.
We’re up at the crack of dawn, around 5:30 AM, for a quick breakfast before starting the hike up to the highest point of the trek – Salkantay Pass. It’s tough, a 7 km (4.34 miles) climb that takes about 3 hours, but once you reach the top, the views of the valleys and mountains make it worth every step. Salkantay is one of the highest peaks in the region, and standing there, you can feel how sacred it is.
After soaking in the views, we’ll head downhill for lunch. The trail winds down and eventually leads us into the upper part of the Amazon jungle, known as the cloud forest. This part of the hike is incredible – you go from the cold mountain air to a warm, lush forest filled with colorful plants and wildlife. We’ll reach Challway Village by the end of the day, ready to rest after a long trek.
Today’s hike takes us through the Santa Teresa valley. We’ll pass rivers, waterfalls, and even coffee and avocado plantations. You’ll be able to try local fruits like passion fruit along the way. After lunch, we head to Lucmabamba, our campsite for the night. If you’re into coffee, you’re in for a treat – we’ll visit an organic coffee farm, and you can try some fresh, locally grown coffee.
Just like the previous mornings, the trek chef will wake you up early with a warm cup of coca tea, served right to your bed. You’ll get ready for the day while enjoying your last breakfast prepared by our talented chef.
After about 2 hours of climbing, with stunning views of the Santa Teresa valley, we’ll arrive at the Llactapata Inca site, which is located directly across from Machu Picchu.
This will be the first archaeological site we visit connected to the legendary Lost City of the Incas! It’s a perfect spot to take in the history and culture of this land. From here, you’ll not only see the ruins of Machu Picchu but also Huayna Picchu and Machu Picchu Mountain. We’ll explore this site together with the guide, who will share more about the Incas’ connection to the area. There will be plenty of time to snap photos and take in the views.
After exploring Llactapata, we’ll continue with a 2-hour downhill hike. Along this part of the trail, you’ll be able to catch glimpses of Machu Picchu until we reach the Hidroelectrica station for lunch. One of the highlights in this area is a towering 300-meter waterfall that powers the region.
After lunch, we’ll head to Intiwatana, an ancient Incan rock used as a sundial. According to legend, it worked together with the famous sundial at Machu Picchu to measure the winter solstice, marking the start of the Incas’ farming season.
From here, we’ll follow train tracks leading to Aguas Calientes. You’ve got two options: if you’re feeling tired, you can hop on the train to Aguas Calientes for an extra $31. If you’re up for more walking, you can hike for about 3 hours alongside the tracks, through the warm and lush cloud forest. This is the same path that Hiram Bingham, the American explorer, used when he rediscovered Machu Picchu after it had been lost to the outside world for centuries.
Note: In the rainy season, the Llactapata Trail can become dangerous, and we may need to change plans for safety.
Today marks the exciting finale of our trek, as we finally reach Machu Picchu, one of the New 7 Wonders of the World and a UNESCO World Heritage Site! After a restful night at our hostel, we’ll wake up early to beat the crowds and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of Machu Picchu in the soft morning light. The entrance is open from 6:00 AM to 5:00 PM, giving us plenty of time to explore. We’ll hike up to the site (or take a bus for $12) and step into the ancient, hidden citadel of the Incas.
Once inside, we’ll take a two-hour guided tour of this incredible city. We’ll explore the temples, terraces, palaces, and the famous sundial, as well as the industrial and agricultural areas. You’ll be blown away by the brilliance of the Inca engineers, who built this city on the side of a mountain without modern tools. They even created a system of canals to bring water through the city streets. When Hiram Bingham, the American explorer, first saw this site, it was nearly lost under thick vegetation. But now, it’s been restored and protected for the world to appreciate.
After the tour, you can explore more on your own. If you’ve got tickets, you can hike up to Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain, each taking about 3 hours to go up and back. If you’re looking for something a little easier, you can hike to the Sun Gate, the main entrance of the Inca Trail, which takes about 2 to 2.5 hours round-trip. Another option is to visit the Incan Bridge.
You’ll have up to 7 hours to soak in the magic of this place before we head back to Aguas Calientes. From there, we’ll catch the 6:20 PM train (depending on availability) to Ollantaytambo, where a private bus will take us back to Cusco. You should arrive at your hotel around 9:30 PM, tired but full of unforgettable memories that will stay with you long after the trek.
Here are the services and costs not included in the Salkantay Trek package. These are optional and can be paid directly on-site. Typically, these services are provided by the local community and are standard among all Salkantay Trek operators. Our aim is to provide you with clear and accurate information.
Returning by Train Adult: $370 USD per person
Returning by Bus Adult: $310 USD per person
Returning by Train Student: $350 USD per person (Valid University student ID required)
Returning by Bus Student: $290 USD per person (Valid University student ID required)
Key Information: Understanding the Differences Between Returning by Car & by Train – Click at here to Learn More…
Train Return Option: Depart from Aguas Calientes between 2:30pm and 8:20 pm (subject to availability). After a 1.5-hour train ride to Ollantaytambo, you will transfer to a vehicle for a 2-hour drive to Cusco, arriving around 10:30pm or 12.20 am. Aprox.
Car/Bus Return Option: Start a 3-hour hike from Machu Picchu to the hydroelectric station by 11:00 am at the latest to catch the bus at 3:00 pm. This journey will take approximately 6-7 hours, reaching Cusco around 10 pm. Both options will end at Plaza Regocijo.
Choose the option that best suits your preferences for a memorable journey through the stunning landscapes of Machu Picchu.
In your duffel bag (5 kg limit including sleeping bag):
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The 5-Day Salkantay Trek is one of the most exciting hikes you can do if you want to visit Machu Picchu. It’s a challenging journey that takes you through high mountains, down into tropical jungles, and finally to the famous ruins. Each day feels like a new adventure, with different landscapes and experiences. This trek is perfect for people who want more than just a simple walk to Machu Picchu.
The weather on the 5-Day Salkantay Trek changes a lot. You can start the day in cold, windy mountain weather and end it in warm, humid jungle air. The higher you go, the colder it gets. At night, it can be freezing, especially when you camp near Salkantay Pass. But as you go down, the temperature gets warmer. Be prepared for rain, too, it can happen anytime, especially in the jungle areas.
Before you start the Classic Salkantay Trek, it’s important to prepare. Spend a few days in Cusco to get used to the altitude. Drink lots of water and don’t push yourself too hard in the beginning. The altitude makes it harder to breathe, and you don’t want to get sick. Take it slow and listen to your body.
Not everyone can do the Salkantay Trek 5 Days. It’s a tough hike, especially because of the high altitude. People with heart problems or breathing issues should talk to a doctor before going. Also, the trail is long and steep in some parts, so it’s not for beginners. You need to be in good physical shape to enjoy it fully.
After the trek, you’ll need tickets to enter Machu Picchu. It’s a good idea to buy them in advance because they sell out fast, especially during the high season. Some tour packages include the tickets, so ask about that when booking with us.
The Salkantay Trek 5 days reaches some very high altitudes. The highest point is Salkantay Pass, which is about 15,000 feet above sea level. After that, the trail goes down into the jungle, where the altitude is lower, around 6,500 feet. The change in altitude is one of the most interesting parts of the trek, but it can also be tough on your body. That’s why it’s important to take your time and rest when you need to.
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Thinking about hiking the Salkantay 5 day trek to Machu Picchu? You’re not alone, this scenic adventure is one of the most popular in Cusco. Below you’ll find answers to the most common questions travelers have about the route, altitude, weather and difficulty.
Need help deciding on the right trip? Whether it s a quick question or full itinerary advice, we re here to help.
Take a look at real moments captured along the Salkantay trek 5 days from mountain passes and quiet campsites to the final arrival at Machu Picchu. These photos show what the journey truly feels like.
