About this experience
The amazing Salkantay trek to Machu Picchu is one of the famous treks in Cusco and the best alternative route to get to Machu Picchu. You will experience untouched natural beauty as you hike through the Andean mountains worshiped by the Incas. This trek will tread through varied terrain, experiencing 15 unique ecosystems, and changing altitudes. If you are thinking to do a hiking trip to Machu Picchu and you want to be off-the-beaten-path and back in touch with nature then this 5 day Salkantay trek is the absolute best option.
At a glance
- Duration: 120 hr
Plan your experience
Set aside 120 hr for the experience itself, with additional time to reach your meeting or pickup point.
Before you go
- Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Local guides to help you plan
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What is included
- Camping equipment
- English speaking official guide
- Train tickets
- Trekking Chef
- Lunch (4)
- Medical kit
- Dinner (4)
- Breakfast (4)
- Private transportation
- Accommodation
- Snacks
- Horses to carry luggages
- Entry ticket to Machu Picchu
Not included
- Entrance Free to Salkantay Trail (USD 3.50)
- Huayna Picchu (USD 25) – Booked in advance
- Machu Picchu Mountain (USD 25) – Booked in advance
- Sleeping bag (rentals offered)
- Walking sticks (rentals offered)
- Bus ticket to Machu Picchu (USD 12 each way)
- Transport to the Hot Spring in Santa Teresa
- Cocalmayo Hot Springs (10 PEN)
- Zip-line adventure
Itinerary and highlights
You will be hiking 75 km and reaching the famous Apacheta pass 4621m, the highest point of the Salkantay trek. Enjoy incredible views while hiking from Mollepata town to Soraypampa base camp sitting at the edge of the Humantay mountain. You will hike up to the highest point and enjoy the outstanding snow-capped Salkantay mountain towering above you. Continuing on to Santa Teresa, unwind in the healing natural hot springs before your next hike to Aguas Calientes, the town at the base of Machu Picchu.
Reaching Aguas Calientes you will be able to relax at your hotel and get some beauty rest for the next days sightseeing. You will be one of the first one visiting Machu Picchu Historic Sanctuary to enjoy the mystical Machu Picchu in all its glory as the sun rises behind the ruins.
See the overview, available options and booking details for the experience schedule.
Meeting and pickup information
- In case no pick up is required we will meet at 4:45am to 5:00am at "la plazoleta Regocijo" right in the centre, next to the little fountain of water.
- Our pick ups are from well-known accommodations that have easy access for our transport team. Alternatively, we may arrange the night before at the briefing to meet out transport team at the agreed time at some other nearby and easy location. (For example: At our main Office, Ukukus Hostel, main plaza of Cusco etc.)
Languages and tickets
- English — Guide
- Spanish — Guide
- Mobile Only
Tour operator
- Ukukus Travel***
Accessibility and practical details
- Service animals allowed
- Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
- Not recommended for pregnant travelers
- Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
- Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Cancellation policy
All sales are final. No refund is available for cancellations.
Questions about this experience
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