SALKANTAY TREK 5 DAYS TO MACHU PICCHU
ALTERNATIVE
SALKANTAY TREK | 5 DAYS TREKKING IN PERU
5 DAYS FROM $ 599.00
Trip Type
Hiking
Service Of Level
-
Group Service
Visitors to Peru should be in good physical shape and feel comfortable walking, for long periods of time. Daily activities include City tours around sites such as historic ruins; visits from buses that may last up until nightfall when they’ll stop at either an outdoor market town before continuing on foot back home again (or vice versa) – Tour Leaders Peru
Group Size
Max 8
Activity Of Level
-
Challenge
The Salkantay Trek tours demand a lot of physical activity and adequate preparation and very good physical condition are required. These tours are usually hikes that go from 4 days to 5 days, where you walk every day for between 6 and 7 hours which is done for more than 1000 meters and likewise descends hundreds of meters by very steep steps.
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HIKING OVERVIEW
- The Salkantay Trek covers roughly a distance of 60 to 74 kilometers or 37 – 46 miles and depending on your level of fitness, the estimated trekking time per day is around 6 to 8 hours the first two days 3rd day 6 Hours and 3 hours the last stretch from Santa Teresa to Machu Picchu Pueblo.
- Distance: 74 km (46 miles)
- Time: 5 days | Available 4 Days Trek
- Altitude: 4580 meters at the highest point
- Things to do/see: Humantay Lagoon, Santa Theresa hot springs, Apacheta pass, views of Salkantay mountain, ziplining (Available for upgrade)
- Seasonal Hike: All year round
ITINERARY
If you’re looking for a Great alternative Hike in Peru after the classic Inca Trail 4 Days and some of the most stunning scenery Peru has to offer, then the Salkantay Trek is for you. The trail gets its name from Mount Salkantay, a towering peak in the Andes Mountains. The trek is challenging, but it’s worth it for the incredible views of the mountains and valleys below. The Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu is one of the most popular hiking trails in Peru and a great way to see some of the country’s best scenery.
You can see nature at its finest and deeply admire the various flora and fauna. Throughout Salkantay Trail, you will observe the gorgeous glacial, waterfalls, and Lakes. Hike through the Peruvian cloud forest. The air you breathe will be pure and fresh as you are up at Salkantay Pass. You’ll have the opportunity to see Tropical Far Land including coffee plantations and taste Peru’s renowned coffee. A definite must for Coffee lovers!
What Is The Best part of Salkantay Trek?
As you reach the high jungle area of the Salkantay hike you’ll have the opportunity to taste fresh fruits grown there. You will have spectacular views of the Andean glaciers, waterfalls, and creeks, be able to walk in different microclimates of the Cordillera of the Andes, and have the chance to see the mythical Condors of Peru.
On day fourth: you’ll see a different angle Between Machu Picchu and Huayna Picchu Mountain truly amazing! make sure to see our Gallery.
Be able to compare that view on the last day when you arrive at Machu- Picchu. Our trek also includes the mystical Humantay Lake and the gorgeous Santa Teresa Hot Springs.
Tour Leaders Peru manages small groups and gives you a personalized tour. We hike unique trails not Hiked by other tour operators. You will have the opportunity to go at your own pace and take as many pictures as you desire. Your Tour Leader will share his knowledge about the history of the area. The natural flora and fauna you observe while on the trek are a beautiful sight to appreciate.
NOTE: You need to be in good physical condition in order to hike the Salcantay trail – Salkantay Trek Difficulty Here
And you should definitely acclimatize to the altitude and Avoid Altitude Sickness in Salkantay Trek. Other tour operators sell this tour package as if it is an easy walk in the park. Keep in mind that it is not.
DAY 1 CUSCO - HUMANTAY LAKE
We’ll pick you up at 5:00 am from your hotel and travel by bus for 3 hours to Soraypampa. After a short breakfast, we’ll hike to Humantay Lake. This is that most companies skip, but we believe this mystical lake is too beautiful to be overlooked. You will see for yourself the enchantment of Humantay.
From here, we descend back to Soraypampa and have lunch. We continue our trip for another 2 ½ to 3 hours towards the Suyrococha campsite. As soon as you arrive your campsite will be set up by your Chaskis (staff) in advance. Hot drinks will be served followed by dinner. You will have a good night’s rest with our REI camping equipment at the bottom of the Salkantay glacier. Be prepared for the second day.
Salkantay Trek Distance Day 1
Meals: B/L/D snacks, hot drinks, and popcorn.
Maximum Altitude: 4,219m/13,845ft.
Minimum Altitude: 3,700m/12,139ft.
Distance Travelled: approximately 10km/6.2miles.
Walking Time: approximately 9 hours.
DAY 2 CHALLENGE
We will have breakfast at around 5:30 am and begin our 2-hour hike to the highest pass on this trek located at 4650m/15200ft. You will literally feel amongst the clouds at Salkantay pass. The view of the Cordilleras snowcap mountains is absolutely breathtaking. From here you will descend through different microclimates until you reach Huaraqmach’ay for your lunch break.
When the group is finished eating you will continue descending until you reach Collpapampa campsite. You will have free time to relax until dinner is served and afterward a good night’s rest.
Salkantay Trek Distance day 2
Meals: B/L/D snacks, hot drinks, and popcorn
Maximum Altitude: 4,650m/15,255ft
Minimum Altitude: 2,800m/9,186ft
Distance Travelled: approximately 17km/10.5miles
Walking Time: approximately 11 hours
DAY 3 WATERFALLS
Early morning tea wakes up call at 5:30 am followed by breakfast. We begin our up-and-down trek through the beautiful cloud forest. Along the way, you will have the chance to see beautiful flora and fauna, colorful birds, butterflies, waterfalls, coffee and banana plantations, and much more while arriving in the high jungle.
You will arrive at La Playa campsite and have lunch. Afterward, we will get on our private transportation and drive for about 1 hour until we reach the Cocalmayo hot Spring you can spend as much as you want afterward and will be back to our campsite in the same transportation following our dinner.
Salkantay Trek Distance Day 3
Meals: B/L/D snacks
Maximum Altitude: 2,800m/9,186ft
Minimum Altitude: 2,100m/6,889ft
Distance Travelled: approximately 11km/6.8miles
Walking Time: approximately 7 hours
DAY 4 INCA RUINS - AGUAS CALIENTES
We’ll have breakfast around 7:00 am and then begin our trek to Llactapata Inca Ruins. On the way, you will walk through coffee plantations, visit a local family and taste the world-renowned Peruvian Coffee (coffee lovers you are in for a treat!) You will continue your hike until you reach the balcony view of Machupicchu. After some photos and rest, you will continue on a two-hour downhill hike to the Hydroelectric town. There you will be served lunch.
Once you finish lunch we wait for our train to Aguas Calientes that departs at 3 pm. Aguas Calientes town is where you will spend the night. Enjoy a nice warm shower and prepare to visit the Lost City of the Incas the next day.
Salkantay Trek Distance Day 4
Meals: B/L/D snacks, hot drinks, and popcorn
Maximum Altitude: 2,800m/9,186ft
Minimum Altitude: 2,100m/6,889ft
Distance Travelled: approximately 15km/9.3miles
Walking Time: approximately 6 hours
DAY 5 MACHU PICCHU TOUR
To avoid large lines and crowds we highly suggest you have a very early breakfast (5:00 am) at your hotel before taking the earliest bus to Machupicchu. We recommend everyone to try and be the first ones in line because it fills up incredibly quickly. Enjoy the first view of Machupicchu and the sunrise (depending on the weather).
Your tour leader will guide you through this magnificent site for about 3 hours. If you book well in advance and have a Huayna Picchu or Machupicchu Mountain ticket, your tour leader will take you to the main entrance where you can explore these sites on your own.
We are excited to be part of your adventure vacation and lead you to one of the Seven Wonders of the World. Make sure to book your tour in advance. Don’t miss your adventure!
Your tour leader will specify the time after your guided tour. The train ride back to Ollantaytambo is approximately 2 hours followed by a 2-hour drive to Cusco. We will drop you off at your respective hotels in Cusco.
Meals: Breakfast at your hotel
Maximum Altitude: 2,400m/7,874ft
Minimum Altitude: 2,100m/6,889ft
OTHER PERU TREKS
How Many Days Do You Need in Order to Hike In Peru
The Classic Inca Trail trek to Machu Picchu is one of the most popular combined routes. Each route varies in length from one to fourteen days, depending on the demand and availability of lodging along the way. All four journeys are one-way trips. You will generally travel back to Cusco using a combination of public and private transportation, depending on which tour company you use to make your trip reservations.
The One-Day Inca Trail Hike (1-day trek)
You can see Machu Picchu in one day if you’re short on time (but be prepared to wake up early!). You’ll take the train from Cusco to Kilometer 104, which is a location on the trail. Then, you’ll hike around 15 kilometers (9 miles) through the Sun Gate until you reach the Machu Picchu sanctuary. This option is great if you want to view Machu Picchu and experience a small section of the Inca Trail trek all at once.
The Lares Trek (3-day trek)
The Lares Trek, also known as the cultural alternative to the Inca Trail, is a three-day journey into the historical weaver communities on the eastern slopes of Machu Picchu. But don’t expect it to be a trip to the museum.
To glimpse into time-honored villages, you must earn access by obtaining passes that soar to over 15,000 feet and zigzag across Pumahuanca’s peak. On day four of your Lares trek, you may add another stop at Machu Picchu ruins.
Vilcabamba Traverse Route (1 – 2 week trek)
The trek to Machu Picchu is not for the faint of heart. At 65 kilometers long, this is regarded as one of the most difficult ways to see Machu Picchu. The route starts in Cachora and winds a mile-deep canyon to Choquequirao, or “Cradle of Gold.” The Vilcabamba Trail follows the same route that Hiram Bingham took when he rediscovered Machu Picchu in 1911, albeit via more isolated towns.
The Salkantay Route (1 – 2 week trek)
The Salkantay Trek is the only Inca Trail option that lets you sleep in a comfy bed and take a hot shower at the end of every day’s hike! Though it still requires reasonably fit participants, The Lodge Trek runs along the Salkantay Trail through the Cordillera Vilcabamba mountain range but permits nightly rest at fully serviced lodges placed along the route. Machu Picchu is reached by following the trail to an elevation of 15,000 feet.
The Classic Inca Trail Route (3 – 5 day trek)
The Classic Inca Trail Hike is the most popular trek of the four alternatives described in this piece. It begins at kilometer 82 along the route, at the village of Piscacucho. The first day is a moderate hike through the Andean foothills, crossing the Urubamba River and arriving at your campsite in Huayllabamba. On the second day, you’ll ascend what’s known as “Dead Woman’s Pass,” which is the highest point of the Inca Trail Elevation at 4200 meters (13,776 feet). After that, it’s all downhill to the Pacaymayo River campsite.
WHAT TO EXPECT IN YOUR TRIP?
This Classic alternative trip is perfect for those who want a light/moderate/challenging adventure and like to explore new things. Travelers should be in good shape since you’ll be hiking for long periods of time, Hiking unstable ground, and going upstairs without any handrails.
Recommendations
It is suggested to have hiking preparation at least 2 months in advance with activities that help strengthen the muscles of the legs with a good technique to hold your breath as this tour generally cover heights over 14,000 feet above the mountains in very rough terrain and very low temperatures as well as very high temperatures.
Trip Preparation
During your Pre-departure for Salkantay Trekking, you will explore various areas including Cusco City.
This trip preparation is for acclimatization purposes; there are several day tour options such as Sacred Valley, Maras Moray, Walk with llamas, and alpacas Tour. The walks will be moderately difficult with options for more strenuous hikes. You’ll also get to see numerous archaeological sites along the way.
Cusco City
Cusco is located at a high altitude of 11,200 feet. The Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu are lower, at 9,200 and 8,000 feet respectively.
Accommodations
The Peru Adventure includes a stay in wonderful accommodations that have been chosen for their excellent quality, location, and personality. Do not hesitate to reach out to us if you have any questions!
Our Private Team
Throughout the Hike, you will be accompanied by a top private Tour Leader. You will also meet local experts as detailed in the itinerary.
Transportation
We have all of the transportation you need in Peru taken care of, as specified by your itinerary. If you want to go see something that’s not already on the agenda while you’re here, just let your private guide know. They will be more than happy to help recommend some options for getting there.
GALLERY
PRIVATE HIKING TOURS
With our private hiking tours, you get to design your dream trip – pick your departure date and we’ll do the rest. These specially crafted itineraries include guided excursions, cultural experiences, wildlife encounters, and luxurious accommodations so that you can make the most of your time abroad.
If you’re looking for an unforgettable experience, look no further than our Peru luxury tour packages by BLISSFUL TRAVEL ESCAPES LUXURY TOURS.
From Machu Picchu to the Sacred Valley, our expert guides will show you the best that Peru has to offer. Contact us today to start planning your dream Peru vacation!
TRAVEL INSURANCE
Exploring is an essential part of who we are at TOUR LEADERS PERU, and our travelers’ well-being comes first.
HEALTH AND SAFETY PROTOCOLS
Please click the “Salkantay Trek Travel Insurance” Link below for information about our new health and safety protocols—including what will be required of you and what you can expect from us on your trip. Please review these new protocols before your departure so you understand our policies. This includes information about personal health and hygiene and new measures we have put in place for physical distancing, face coverings, cleaning, and more.
LEARN MORE: TRAVEL INSURANCE HERE
LAST MINUTE UPDATES
100% GUARANTEED
- 100% Operated by Tour Leaders Peru, We never mix our groups with other travel companies
- Pick up from Airport and Hotel Cusco - included
- 4-star hotels in both Lima & Cusco (apply for Peru packages)
- Bus suttle Round Trip from Machu Pichu
- Machu Picchu entrance Tickets.
- Packed Lunch
- Best English Speakers Tour Leaders, We know Communication is very important in your trip
- Early tour in Machu Picchu (important tip)
- Hotel Aguas Calientes with all facilities
- Free and Safe Storage in Cusco and Aguas Calientes while you are hiking and visiting Machu Picchu
- Private transportation
- Perfect Location For Photographers
- Comfortable and Panoramic Train to Aguas Calientes.
PRICE PP 599,00 - 8+GUESTS
We are excited to be part of your adventure and lead you to one of the Seven Wonders of the World. Make sure to book your tour in advance.
From $599 per person
2 Trekkers: $ 755 per person
3 Trekkers: $ 730 per person
4 Trekkers: $ 680 per person
5 Trekkers: $ 655 per person
6 Trekkers: $599 per person
7 Trekkers: $615 per person
8+ Trekkers $599 Per person
Note: An initial deposit of %50 is required to reserve your spot. We require this deposit to buy train and bus tickets, entrance fees to Machu Picchu, Salkantay Trail admission ticket, and your return transportation. The remaining balance is due 21 days prior to your trek.
Please see our Terms and Conditions. Don’t miss your adventure!
100% WE COVERED MACHU PICCHU HIKE
- Pre-departure briefing at 7:00 pm the night before your tour in our office or your Hotel.
- Collection from your Hotel in Cusco from (05:30 am) or from Sacred Valley.
- Private transportation (Start of our trek).
- Breakfast in Urubamba in our farmhouse,
- Full meals for the entire tour (4 Breakfasts, 3 Lunch 3 Dinner) + snacks (vegetarian, vegan option, gluten, wheat-free, or special diets upon your request.)
- Permit and fees for the Inca Trail Machu Picchu Sanctuary, (Request for Huayna Picchu your Entrance ticket)
- Inca Trail Porters to carry (camping equipment: client tents, dining and cooking tents, table, stools, cooking gear, stove, gas container, cutlery, plates, food, and fresh vegetables).
- Drinkable boiled water for your container (We start filling from the second Days Morning)
- 7-kilogram duffle bags (per Person)
- 2 Excellent experienced top tour guides (9-16 person / 6-8 with 1 tour guide)
- 2 expert gourmet mountain cooks, assistants.
- Hot drinks every afternoon include popcorn.
- Boiled water provided from 2nd day.
- 2 people per tent, clean, new, spacious (4 people REI Half Dome 4 tents).
- Thick, comfortable sleeping mattress,
- Buckets of hot water for washing in your tent every day.
- Biodegradable soap and hand cleansing gel.
- Emergency First-aid kit and Oxygen assistance.
- 3-4 hours guided tour in Machupicchu
- Bus Ticket from Machupicchu to Aguas Calientes
- Tourist Expedition train return to Poroy Station or Ollantaytambo.
- Private Bus to Cusco From The Train Station
GO SECTION OF ITEMS FOR RENT
Not Included
- Sleeping bag (4 season -Minus 8ºC) (For rent in Our Office)
- Hiking Poles (For rent in Our Office)
- Tips for the trekking crew, Guides, Cooks, and Porters at your discretion.
- Flight Ticket to Cusco (Contact Us)
- Accommodation in Cusco. (see recommendation Contact US )
- Travel Insurance. (check that your insurance covers you for treks above 4,200 masl) and (COVID-19)
INCA TRAIL PACKING LIST
This is basic information about the Clothing packing list REI and all the information Here in this linK Comple Packing List to Peru
CLOTHING:
1st Layer:
- Underwear
- Long-sleeved Thermal Shirt
- Thermal form-fitting pants
2nd Layer:
- Polar Fleece
- Trekking pants
- Thick socks
3rd Layer:
- Waterproof Jacket
- Waterproof pants (optional)
- Insulated Jacket
- Scarf
- Cold weather Hat
- Gloves
- Buff/ handkerchief
- Sun hat
TRAVEL ACCESSORIES:
- Backpack 20-30 L
- Waterproof cover for backpack
- Trekking shoes (waterproof and firm)
- Sport shoes/ sandals for campsites
- Camping pillow
- Sleeping bag liner (optional)
- Sturdy water bottle
- Trekking poles
- Headlamp
- Plastic bags for wet items
- Toiletry kit (toothbrush, wet wipes, etc)
- Swimsuit/ towel
- Sunscreen (SPF 50+ recommended)
- Sunscreen lip protector
- Sunglasses
- Insect repellent
OTHER:
- Personal Medications
- Motion sickness tablets for the van ride
- Camera/ Extra battery
- Personal snacks
- Hand warmers (optional)
- Leisure book for evenings
- Cash and small coins
TRAVEL SMART WE HAVE ALL YOU NEED
Items For Rent
- Single Tent $60 (if you wish to sleep alone)
- Sleeping Bag $30 per person (minus -3 degrees Celsius)
- Air Mattress $20 per person (REI inflatable mattress)
- Professional REI Walking Poles or other reputable Brand $20 per pair Hold Trip.
- Backpacks $40 Hold Trip
- Head Lamp $10
- Extra kilograms $10/kg (Example 5kg=$50) Per Day
Read our Important information the booking process and confirmation
General Information Trekking with Tour Leaders Peru
The times Mentioned in this itinerary are approximations. Walking times depend on the group, and the Tour Leaders may change lunch spots and campsites, depending on the progress of the group.
Specific Information About Trekking the Luxury Inca Trail Hike
The Inca Trail is not open in February
Campsites or itineraries are subject to change, depending on the time of booking and availability of campsites. The Ministry of Culture, the government institution responsible for operating the Inca Trail, allocates campsites to authorized trekking companies on a first-come, first-served basis, and so we cannot guarantee that all campsites described in this itinerary will be available when you book.
Booking Inca Trail Hike
A scanned copy of your passport and a non-refundable deposit must be provided upon booking an Inca Trail hike. This is due to government regulations that require complete passport details and full payment of the Machu Picchu entrance fee in order to issue a permit. Your reservation will only be confirmed when we have your entrance ticket in our hands.
If your passport number changes after you book, you must tell us immediately or you may lose your booking! If the name or number on your passport is different from the name or number on your Inca Trail permit, you will not be allowed to start the trek and you will not be entitled to a refund.
You must carry your original passport with you on the trail.
If you booked an Inca Trail hike at a student rate, you must bring the required documentation on the trail with you. If you do not present this documentation, you will not be allowed to start the trek and you will not be entitled to a refund, nor given an opportunity to pay the full rate.
Extras & Upgrades on the Luxury Inca Trail Hike
If you’d like to hike Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain, let us know at the time of booking as it requires a separate permit.
This trek includes transportation by train from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo Full service (Tourist Class), or equivalent Inca Rail service, followed by private vehicle transport from Ollantaytambo to Cusco.
Depending on the date, international and local holidays as well as festivals may result in a surcharge. All prices are subject to change and will be quoted in U.S. dollars. For more information, please consult the terms and conditions for this trip.”
SEASONALITY
This Hiking Tour is available year-round. Please note the Inca Trail is closed in February.
CHOQUEQUIRAO TREK 5 D
The Choquequirao trek is a 58km return hike to the Choquequirao Ruins in Peru’s Sacred Valley near Cusco. It can be done as its own individual trek or combined with hiking to Machu Picchu, and it can be completed independently.
LARES TREK 5 DIAS
Best alternative routes after the Inca Trail and Salkantay. This type of trek is cultural and mystical. From our past experience, many tourists compare these valleys to Peter Jackson’s production of Lord of the Rings.
INCA TRAIL 4 DAYS
Hikers ascend two mountain passes over 13,000 feet Dead Woman Pass (3,962 meters) and then drop down to where Machu Picchu sits at 7,982 feet (2,430 meters). There are other route options.
SALKANTAY + INCA TRAIL TREK 7 DAYS
Elevation: 4,821m/15,817ft
Good for Hikers
Difficulty: Quite Challenging
Inca Trail: Permit Require
Best Alternative Trail in Peru