Summary
Important Details
- Frequency: Scheduled departures (check availability)
- Duration: 5 days / 4 nights
- Start time: Day 1 – 05:00 h
- Return time: Day 5 – Approx. 20:30 h
- Mode: Shared Group
- Difficulty level: High (requires good physical condition and previous acclimatization)
Why Travel with Peru Coyana?
The Salkantay Trek is the second most popular route to Machu Picchu and one of the most scenic. It takes you through landscapes filled with towering glaciers, cloud forests, crystal-clear rivers, waterfalls, and traditional Quechua villages where ancient customs still thrive.
This trek is perfect for travelers looking for a less crowded, more flexible alternative to the Classic Inca Trail, offering a profound connection with nature and Andean culture. The experience ends with a guided visit to Machu Picchu, making for an unforgettable spiritual and visual journey.
Itinerary Summary
- Day 1: Cusco – Mollepata – Soraypampa – Campsite
- Day 2: Soraypampa – Salkantay Pass – Challway – Campsite
- Day 3: Challway – La Playa (Sawayaku) – Campsite
- Day 4: La Playa – Llactapata – Aguas Calientes – Hotel
- Day 5: Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu – Return to Cusco
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1 – Cusco → Mollepata → Soraypampa
We depart Cusco toward Mollepata, where the team prepares equipment with mules and horsemen. From here, we begin hiking toward Soraypampa (3,900 m.a.s.l.), passing small villages like Cruzpata and Silcakancha, with stunning views of the Salkantay glacier and high-altitude flora. Campsite at Soraypampa with dinner under the stars.
Day 2 – Soraypampa → Salkantay Pass → Challway
After breakfast, we ascend to the Salkantay Pass (4,600 m.a.s.l.), the highest point of the trek, where you’ll witness epic views of Salkantay and possibly avalanches. We then descend through highland plains to Huayracpampa and continue to Challway (2,900 m.a.s.l.), entering the lush cloud forest. Second night camping in a rich natural setting.
Day 3 – Challway → La Playa (Sawayaku)
The trail follows the Santa Teresa River, surrounded by waterfalls, orchids, and tropical vegetation. We cross small cable carts (oroyas) and pass through coffee farms and fruit trees. We arrive at La Playa Sawayaku and camp for the night. Free time to relax or explore the area.
Day 4 – La Playa → Llactapata → Aguas Calientes
We ascend to Llactapata, an Inca archaeological site offering the first view of Machu Picchu from afar. Then we descend to the hydroelectric station and take the train to Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu Town). Overnight in a basic hotel with comfortable amenities.
Day 5 – Aguas Calientes → Machu Picchu → Cusco
Early in the morning, we ascend to Machu Picchu for a 2.5-hour guided tour covering the Main Square, Temple of the Sun, Intihuatana, Temple of the Condor, and the Temple of the Three Windows, among others. Afterward, you’ll have free time to explore or climb Huayna Picchu (optional, advance booking required). In the afternoon, we return to Cusco by train and bus. Estimated arrival: 20:30 h.
Includes / Not Included
What’s Included in the Salkantay Trek Tour?
- Transport Cusco – Mollepata
- Professional bilingual guide (Spanish / English)
- Meals: 4 breakfasts, 4 lunches, 4 dinners
- Camping equipment (tent, mat, kitchen and dining gear)
- Horses and muleteers for camping gear
- Cook
- First aid kit and oxygen
- 01 night in hotel in Aguas Calientes
- Entry ticket to Machu Picchu
- Train ticket Aguas Calientes – Cusco
- Hotel transfers in Cusco
What’s Not Included?
- Sleeping bag (available for rent)
- First breakfast (Day 1), last lunch and dinner (Day 5)
- Entry to the hot springs in Aguas Calientes (approx. S/ 15.00)
- National or international flights
- Huayna Picchu ticket (optional)
- Personal expenses and tips
Tips
Recommendations for Your Salkantay Trek
- Bring a small backpack (max. 6 kg)
- Warm clothing for the night and light clothing for the day
- Sturdy trekking shoes
- Sunscreen and a hat
- Insect repellent
- Small, lightweight flashlight
- Trekking poles (optional)
- Camera or phone with long battery life
- Original passport or ID used for booking
- Note: The Salkantay Trek is an excellent choice for nature and adventure lovers. It’s highly recommended to spend at least 48 hours acclimating in Cusco before starting the trek.
