Overview (Salkantay Trail – Machu Picchu Hike Tour)
Come on a high altitude adventure with Pacha Expedition. The Machu Picchu Salkantay Trek is full of adventure and vistas. This 5-day journey unveils the majestic beauty of the Andes.
You will trek from Mollepata to Soraypampa and camp under the stars. Traverse the Salkantay Pass. Conquer one of the most remarkable mountains in Peru. There are breathtaking vistas along the way.
The trek continues through lush cloud forests. You’ll see the landscape change in front of you. La Playa is part of the Subtropical forest. This diverse terrain exposes trekkers to unique flora and fauna.
After camping at La Playa, you’ll explore Llactapata. A lesser known Archeological site. You will then hike to Aguas Calientes, preparing for the final day’s highlight.
The climax of the Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu is near. Unlike the Classic Salkantay Trek, this trek trail takes you to Machu Picchu. We’ll enjoy a guided tour of the iconic ruins.
After exploring Machu Picchu, you will return to Cusco. This trek is a challenge, but it offers the beauty and splendor of the Andes. Plan your trip in advance to secure a spot on this unforgettable journey.
*Difficulty level depends very much on your fitness and acclimatization.
We offer daily departures in the Inca Trail and Alternative routes: check availability here.
It is recommended to book the Inca Trail at least 4 months in advance, because this is the most famous road in South America and many people want to visit it.
The Inca Trail is the most iconic Peru Machu Picchu Hike. However, there are many alternative options to hike Machu Picchu, like the Inca Quarry Trek or the Ancascocha Trek to Machu Picchu.
Highlights
- Starting Altitude: 4,200 meters (13,780 feet) at Upis
- Maximum Altitude: 5,200 meters (17,060 feet) at Arapa Pass
- Total Distance of the Hike: Approximately 50 kilometers (31 miles)
- Average Highest Temperature: 20°C (68°F) during the day
- Average Lowest Temperature: -5°C (23°F) at night
- Meals Included: 2 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 2 dinners
- Level of Difficulty: High, we highly recommend all travelers be on good physical conditions.
Overview Day to Day
- Day 1: Trek from Mollepata to Soraypampa. Camp at Soraypampa.
- Day 2: Cross the Salkantay Pass to Chaullay. Camp at Chaullay.
- Day 3: Hike through the Cloud Forest to La Playa. Camp at La Playa.
- Day 4: Visit Llactapata, then hike to Aguas Calientes.
- Day 5: Tour Machu Picchu. Return to Cusco.
PLEASE SEE: OUR TERMS AND CONDITIONS AND F.A.Qs
Conditions for the Mountain – Machu picchu and Wayna picchu.
- * Note:Level of difficulty depends a lot on your fitness and acclimatization.
- * The train service on all tours includes (Expedition to Ollanta) and bus to Cusco.
* If you want to stay an extra night in Aguas Calientes have to tell us in advance to arrange your hotel and modify the train service return.
Itinerary
Day 1: Mollepata to Soraypampa
Pacha Expeditions will start the Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu with an early morning departure from Cusco. The drive to Mollepata takes about 3 hours. Here, trekkers will have breakfast and prepare for the hike.
The Salkantay trek Perú to Soraypampa begins around 9 AM. This part of the journey covers approximately 12 kilometers and takes about 6 hours, including breaks. During one of these brakes we’ll have lunch on the trail.
The trail climbs steadily, offering views of lush landscapes and mountain peaks. We’ll witness the Salktanya and Humanatay mountains.
Our Camp for the night will be set at Soraypampa by late afternoon. You’ll enjoy dinner in the camp and rest under the stars.
- Altitude: Starts at 2,900 (9,500 ft) ; End: 3,900 meters (12,800 ft)
- Distance Covered: 12 kilometers (7.5 miles)
- Main Places Visited: Mollepata, Soraypampa
Day 2: Soraypampa to Chaullay
The day begins with breakfast at camp. Them we’ll prepare to ascent to the highest point of the trek, the Salkantay Pass, at 4,630 meters (15,190 ft) above sea level. This stretch is challenging and takes about 4 hours to conquer.
After reaching the pass, you will descend to Chaullay. During the descent we’ll have lunch in Huayracmachay.
You’ll walk through changing scenery. Witness rugged mountains and tropical areas. This part of the hike takes approximately 4 more hours.
You will camp and dine at Chaullay, resting after a strenuous day.
- Altitude: High point at 4,630 meters (15,190 ft)
- Distance Covered: 16 kilometers (9.94 miles)
- Main Places Visited: Salkantay Pass, Chaullay
Day 3: Chaullay to La Playa
Day three starts with a hearty breakfast before trekking through the Cloud Forest. This environment is rich in flora and fauna, adding a different experience to the trek.
The hike to La Playa takes about 6 hours and covers around 15 kilometers. The path is less strenuous. The trail has a mild descent.
Camp at La Playa provides a warmer climate and a chance to enjoy natural beauty.
- Altitude: Ends at 2,060 meters.
- Distance Covered: 15 kilometers
- Main Places Visited: Cloud Forest, La Playa
Day 4: La Playa to Aguas Calientes
After breakfast, we’l trek to the Llactapata ruins. This takes about 2.5 hours. From here, you will catch your first view of Machu Picchu from a distance.
After exploring Llactapata, we’ll descend to the Hydroelectric Station. The path takes about 2 hours. We’ll have our lunch in the Hydroelectric Station.
Followed by a 3-hour walk along the railway tracks to Aguas Calientes. This leg of the journey offers natural sights. We’ll arrive to Aguas Calientes to rest.
Enjoying a well-deserved hot shower and a comfortable bed. If we arrive early you may go to the Aguas Calientes Hot Springs (not included). Prepare for the hike to Machu Picchu the next day.
- Altitude: Ends at 2,040 meters (6,700 ft)
- Distance Covered: 18 kilometers (11.18 miles)
- Main Places Visited: Llactapata, Hydroelectric Station, Aguas Calientes
Day 5: Tour Machu Picchu and Return to Cusco
The Machu Picchu Salkantay Trek will take you to a world wonder. You will rise early for breakfast. You’ll catch the first available bus to Machu Picchu.
Enjoy a 2-hour guided tour of the site, learning about its history and significance. After the tour, there’s time to explore independently. You can climb Wayna Picchu if pre-booked.
The return to Aguas Calientes by bus will be around midday. You’ll have some time to go for lunch (no included). Then you’ll take the train to Ollantaytambo. Then a bus will bring you to Cusco.
The Machu Picchu Salkantay Trek concludes with your arrival in Cusco by evening.
- Altitude: Machu Picchu at 2,430 meters (7,980 ft)
- Distance Covered: Exploration dependent, approximately 4 km (2.48)
- Main Places Visited: Machu Picchu, Huayna Picchu (optional)
*PLEASE SEE: OUR TERMS AND CONDITIONS AND F.A.Qs
*Conditions for the Mountain Machu Picchu & Wayna Picchu
Includes
WHAT IS INCLUDED
- Professional bilingual tour guide
- Transportation from Cusco to Mollepata (starting point)
- Return transportation by train and bus to Cusco
- Entrance fee to Machu Picchu
- 4 breakfasts, 4 lunches, 3 dinners
- Drinking water (but bring your own for the first leg of the trek)
- First aid kit including emergency oxygen bottle
- Porters to carry the main luggage
- Packing animals and handlers to carry luggage and equipment
- 1 night accommodation in Aguas Calientes
- Round bus ticket from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu
- Entrance to Salkantay Trail
DOES NOT INCLUDE:
- Lunch on Aguas Calientes
- Tips for the guide, cook, and porters
- Travel insurance
- Additional horses for personal gear above the 8 kg limit
- Entrance to Huayna Picchu Mountain
- Hot springs entrance in Aguas Calientes
- Extra activities and excursions
**Train included in Salkantay Trek, is the Expedition service (to Ollanta) Train times will only be confirmed once full amount of tour is paid. The earliest train you could take is the 14:55.pm and being the 18.20,pm the last train. Pacha Expeditions, will organize the transport back to Cusco (by taxi or by bus).
Please Note: train times are subject to change depending on Perurail times table and availability.If organized in advance, the train can be upgraded to Vistadome (larger windows than the Expedition train) for an increased price.
More Information
WHAT YOU NEED TO TAKE.
- Hiking boots
- Warm clothing layers (for changing temperatures)
- Waterproof jacket and pants or rain poncho
- Sleeping bag (suitable for freezing temperatures)
- Inflatable sleeping pad
- Trekking poles
- Headlamp with extra batteries
- Sunscreen and sunglasses
- Hat for sun protection
- Gloves (warm and waterproof)
- Personal medical kit
- Insect repellent
- Reusable water bottle
- Snacks (energy bars, chocolate, dried fruits, etc.)
- Camera or phone
- Daypack (for carrying personal items during the day)
- Passport and ISIC card (if applicable for a discount)
- Cash (for tips and personal expenses)
- Personal hygiene items (biodegradable ones if possible)
*To qualify as a student, it is necessary to have a university card, with current and updated date
* If desired train back to Cusco can be upgraded to Vistadome (+U$.65)
OPTIONAL SERVICES (NOT INCLUDED):
- Rental of sleeping bags
- Rental of inflatable mattresses
- Rental of trekking poles
- Single tent supplement for solo travelers
- Porter service for additional personal items beyond the included weight limit
- Upgrade to a private tour
- Train upgrade to Vistadome or Executive service for the return trip
- Entrance to Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain
- Additional meals or dietary preferences beyond standard offerings
PLEASE SEE: OUR TERMS AND CONDITIONS AND F.A.Qs
Price & Add – ons – 2024
Group: U$: 550
Private: U$: 680
Group versus Private Treks: What’s the difference?
- Depending on the number of people in your booking, additional people may join the trek to make a full group.
- If you choose “private”, no additional people will be joining your group, no matter the size.
- Minimum booking size is 02 people; one person may book a group trek if Pacha Expeditions Travel Peru, is able to join that person with additional groups.
Discounts
- Under 18 years Discount: U$: 20
- Under 07 years Discount: U$: 25
Rentals
- Hiking poles – U$: 15 (pair)
- Sleeping Bag – U$: 20
Upgrades
- Return Vistadome train – U$: 50 per person
- Return Hiram Bingham train– U$: 380 per person
- Sumaq Machu Picchu Hotel (5-star hotel) – U$: 245 Per person
- Tierra viva Machu Picchu (3+ star hotel) – U$: 50 Per person
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Acomodation
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Reviews
Muy buena atencion de calidad,un viaje inolvidable,les recomiendo a todos ustedes que desean viajar y estar en contacto con la naturaleza...
January 1, 1970
Fuimos bien asistidos en todos los tours. Personal muy serio y confiable. Recomendamos Pacha Espeditions a todos los que quieran ver todos los lugares de interés de la región de... read more
March 10, 2020
Muy buena atencion de calidad,un viaje inolvidable,les recomiendo a todos ustedes que desean viajar y estar en contacto con la naturaleza...
February 5, 2020
Positive Impact Travel
By joining this trip, you are directly supporting a project with a positive impact, with the Goal of Sustainable and responsible Development for future generations. The earnings that Pacha Expeditions receives, for each of our tours, a percentage is destined to support various Andean communities. Pacha Expeditions organizes activities for the benefit of the local community, for children and adults, throughout the year. Our projects are backed by local authorities and with internationally recognized standards and are audited by third parties. Which imply positive impacts on the beneficiaries
