This is the complete Salkantay — five days, and nothing left out. You hike from the turquoise water of Humantay Lake over the Salkantay Pass at 4,630 m, then drop through cloud forest, coffee farms, and old Inca paths all the way to Machu Picchu. And no two nights are the same: a bell tent and a campfire at our own Salka Glamp, at the foot of the mountain; an Andean hut in the warm cloud forest; a camp on the ridge at Llactapata, facing Machu Picchu across the valley; and a hotel bed in Aguas Calientes before you finally walk in.
Five days gives the Andes time to work on you. One morning you're breathing hard at 4,600 meters with glaciers on both sides; two days later you're picking coffee cherries in the sun and burying a Pachamanca lunch under hot stones with your own hands. By the time you stand inside Machu Picchu, you haven't just arrived — you've watched the whole world change to get there. Then the panoramic Vistadome Train, and home. A 100% Peruvian team of guides, chefs, and horsemen hikes beside you every step — this trail is demanding, and you never face it alone.
Tour Type Group Tour
Duration 5 Days 4 Nights
Activities Hiking, Adventure
Average Group Size 12 people
Difficulty Moderate to Challenging
Accommodation Camping, Hotel
Tour Language English, Spanish
Hiking Distance 68 km / 42.5 miles
Ultimate Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu 5 Days
The Salkantay Trek 5 Days is the full journey: from the turquoise water of Humantay Lake over the Salkantay Pass at 4,630 m, down through cloud forest, coffee farms, waterfalls, and old Inca paths to Machu Picchu — with four nights where no two are the same.
Night one is at our own Salka Glamp Campsite at the foot of Salkantay Mountain: bell tents, dinner by our trekking chef, and a campfire with hot drinks, popcorn, and a story about the mountain before you cross it. The next morning starts with coffee or coca tea brought to your tent — and at the pass, our guides make a small coca-leaf offering to the Apu, which you can join or simply watch.
Then the world turns green. You sleep in an Andean hut in the warm cloud forest, bury a Pachamanca lunch under hot stones with your own hands while you follow coffee from the plant to your cup — and climb to Llactapata, the one campsite on any route that faces Machu Picchu across the valley. A hotel night in Aguas Calientes, the guided visit, and the panoramic Vistadome Train bring you home.
Tour Highlights
- Five worlds in five days: Glacier lake, the highest pass, cloud forest, coffee country, and Machu Picchu — the complete Salkantay route, nothing left out.
- Campfire night at Salka Glamp: Sleep in bell tents at the foot of Salkantay Mountain, and end the evening around a fire with a story about the mountain.
- Rise with Salkantay: Coffee or coca tea at your tent, then the pass at 4,630 m — where you can join a coca-leaf offering to the Apu, or simply take it all in.
- Bury your own Pachamanca: Season and cover a hot-stone lunch with your own hands, and brew cloud-forest coffee from cherry to cup while it cooks.
- Camp facing Machu Picchu: Spend a night on the ridge at Llactapata, with the citadel across the valley — two days before you walk inside it.
- Vistadome or 360° Train: Return through the Urubamba valley on a panoramic train with wide windows and a transfer to your Cusco hotel.
Salkantay Trek 5 Days at a Glance
Day 1: Enter the High Andes
Cusco – Humantay Lake – Salka Glamp Campsite (16 km, 8 hrs): Hotel pickup, then hike to Humantay Lake and enjoy a fresh lunch by our trekking chef. Continue to Salka Glamp in Salkantaypampa for dinner and a campfire below Salkantay Mountain.
Day 2: Rise with Salkantay
Salka Glamp – Salkantay Pass – Collpapampa (18 km, 9 hrs): Wake up with coffee or coca tea at your tent, already at the foot of the mountain. Cross the Salkantay Pass at 4,630 m, then descend into the cloud forest and rest in Andean huts at a locally owned campsite.
Day 3: From Coffee Country to the First Glimpse
Collpapampa – Lucmabamba – Llactapata (16 km, 8 hrs): Season and bury your Pachamanca lunch under hot stones, then follow coffee from the plant to your own cup while it cooks. In the afternoon, climb an old Inca path to Llactapata and camp on the ridge facing Machu Picchu.
Day 4: Follow the River to Machu Picchu
Llactapata – Hidroeléctrica – Aguas Calientes (14 km, 6 hrs): Wake up at the camp facing Machu Picchu, share a farewell lunch with your trekking team at Hidroeléctrica, and follow the railway along the Urubamba River into Aguas Calientes for a hotel night.
Day 5: Discover Machu Picchu
Machu Picchu – Panoramic Train – Cusco: Enter Machu Picchu early with your guide, explore the citadel before the busiest hours, and return on the Vistadome or 360° panoramic train to Ollantaytambo, with our transfer back to Cusco.
- Machu Picchu entry with Circuit 2 is included by default. If Circuit 2 is sold out for your date, we'll secure the best available alternative: Circuit 1 or Circuit 3. We'll confirm your final circuit as soon as tickets are issued.
Included
- Briefing one day before tour departure, where you meet your guide.
- Hotel pickup and drop-off.
- All transportation during the tour.
- Professional bilingual tour guide in English and Spanish.
- Return on the panoramic Vistadome Train or 360° Train, plus your transfer from Ollantaytambo station.
- Round-trip bus between Aguas Calientes and Machu Picchu.
- Entry tickets to the Salkantay Trek.
- Machu Picchu entrance ticket.
- Muleteers and cargo mules to carry camping equipment and the approved duffel weight.
- Experienced trekking chef to prepare fresh meals on the trail.
- 1 night at Salka Glamp Campsite, our glamping camp at the foot of Salkantay Mountain, with campfire evening (Day 1).
- 1 night in Andean huts at a locally owned campsite in Collpapampa (Day 2).
- 1 night camping at Llactapata, on the ridge facing Machu Picchu across the valley (Day 3).
- 1 night in a 3-star hotel in Aguas Calientes (Day 4).
- All meals on the trail, except last-day lunch. Dietary needs are accommodated.
- Water and daily snacks.
- Pachamanca barbecue, cooking experience, and local coffee experience (Day 3).
- Duffle bag for up to 7 kg / 15 lb of personal belongings.
- First-aid kit, satellite phones, and oxygen supply carried by your guide.
- Pillow, sleeping pad, rain poncho, and hand towels.
Not Included
- Sleeping bag, air mattress, and trekking poles (available to rent from us).
- Last-day lunch in Aguas Calientes.
- Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain entrances (optional).
- Travel insurance (highly recommended).
Machu Picchu Circuit Included
- Circuit 2: The most requested route to visit Machu Picchu, with a broad walk through the archaeological complex and the classic viewpoints.
If Circuit 2 tickets are sold out, we will secure the best available option, which may be Circuit 1 or Circuit 3. Book early, especially for peak months — Machu Picchu circuits and schedules are limited. Learn more about Machu Picchu tickets and circuits.
Extra Hikes After the Guided Tour in Machu Picchu
- Huayna Picchu Mountain – US$75 per person. The most famous mountain, approximately 2 hours round trip.
- Machu Picchu Mountain – US$75 per person. The highest mountain, approximately 3 hours round trip.
You can only hike one of these mountains, and it is done after the guided tour in Machu Picchu. Advance booking is required for both hikes.
The Salkantay Trek, The TreXperience Way
The trail is shared. Your journey is personal.
TreXperience was built from the trail up. Our co-founder, Juan Coronel, started on the Inca Trail as a porter, became a trekking chef, and then a professional guide. He knows what it feels like to carry a load at 4,000 meters, what a hot meal means after nine hours of hiking, and how much it matters that your tent is up before you reach camp. That is why on Salkantay your camp is ready when you arrive — even on the ridge at Llactapata, where your tent is already facing the citadel — why your chef cooks like the meal is the destination, why our muleteers are treated as the professionals they are, and why there is always a fire, a hot drink, and a story at the end of Day 1.
Every traveler comes to Salkantay for a different reason: a challenge, a celebration, the mountains, or time with someone who matters. Our guides take the time to know yours — and by Day 5, this shared trail becomes your own story.
Upgrade Your Salkantay
Want these same five worlds with a higher level of comfort? The Luxury Salkantay Trek 5 Days follows this same route with private service and upgraded accommodation.
Machu Picchu tickets and the best departure dates are limited and assigned first come, first served. Check what is open before you plan the rest of your trip.
Full Itinerary of the Ultimate Salkantay Trek 5 Days 4 Nights
Day 1: Cusco – Soraypampa – Humantay Lake – Salka Glamp
We will pick you up from your hotel around 4:30 a.m., depending on your location, for a scenic drive to the trailhead. On the way, we’ll stop in the town of Mollepata to enjoy a delicious breakfast before continuing to the starting point, where you’ll meet part of our trekking team.
The adventure begins with a 3-hour hike to Humantay Lake (4,200 m / 13,779 ft), one of the most beautiful turquoise lakes in the Andes. You’ll have time to rest, explore, take photos, and enjoy the powerful mountain setting before hiking downhill for about 1 hour to Soraypampa (3,600 m / 11,811 ft), where our chef will be waiting with a fresh lunch made from local ingredients.
After lunch, the trail continues uphill for 2 hours to Salkantaypampa (4,150 m / 13,615 ft), one of the closest and most peaceful campsite locations below Salkantay Mountain. Along the way, you may spot Andean geese, deer, and the curious rabbit-like vizcacha that lives among the rocks.
Tonight, you’ll stay at our exclusive Salka Glamp Campsite, away from the typical crowds and surrounded by open mountain views. Enjoy comfortable glamping-style bell tents, clear night skies, a warm basecamp atmosphere, tea time, fresh dinner, and the quiet feeling of sleeping below Salkantay Mountain.
- Hiking Distance: 16 km / 9.5 mi
- Duration: 8 hours
- Campsite Altitude: 4,150 m / 13,615 ft
- Highest Altitude: 4,200 m / 13,779 ft
- Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner, snacks, and tea
- Accommodation: Salka Glamp Campsite
- Difficulty: Moderate
Day 2: Salkantaypampa – Wayracmachay – Collpapampa
You’ll wake up early with hot coffee or coca tea delivered to your tent while the mountains slowly light up around camp. After breakfast, we’ll begin the 2-hour ascent to the highest point of the trek, the Salkantay Pass (4,630 m / 15,190 ft).
At the top, we’ll take time to rest, enjoy the views, and connect with the power of Salkantay Mountain (6,270 m / 20,574 ft). This is the most dramatic section of the route, with glaciers, rocky peaks, and high Andean landscapes all around you.
From the pass, we follow a 3-hour descent to our lunch place at Wayracmachay (3,800 m / 12,467 ft), where our trekking team will be waiting with a fresh meal. You may also spot vizcachas, a rabbit-like Andean rodent related to the chinchilla.
After lunch, we’ll continue downhill for 3 more hours, leaving the cold highlands and entering the lush Cloud Forest. You’ll feel the change almost instantly as the weather becomes warmer, the air more humid, and the landscape greener. Tonight, you’ll stay in comfortable Andean huts at a locally owned campsite next to the village of Collpapampa.
- Hiking Distance: 18 km / 11.2 mi
- Duration: 9 hours
- Campsite Altitude: 2,770 m / 9,087 ft
- Highest Altitude: 4,630 m / 15,190 ft
- Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner, snacks, and tea
- Accommodation: Andean huts
- Difficulty: Challenging
Day 3: Collpapampa – Lucmabamba – Llactapata
Enjoy a relaxed morning in the village while looking back at the mountains you crossed the day before. After breakfast, we’ll begin one of the most beautiful and cultural days of the Salkantay Trek 5 Days, hiking through the Cloud Forest toward Lucmabamba.
You’ll follow narrow paths along the river, cross wooden bridges, pass waterfalls, and walk through granadilla and banana plantations until you arrive at Lucmabamba (2,000 m / 6,561 ft). Here, our chef will prepare a traditional Pachamanca barbecue, an authentic Peruvian underground hot-stone meal made with fresh meat, vegetables, fruits, aromatic herbs, and local ingredients.
While the Pachamanca cooks underground, you’ll visit local coffee farms with local hosts. Depending on the season, you may help harvest coffee, learn the process from plant to cup, roast or grind the beans, and prepare your own fresh cup of Peruvian coffee. This is one of the most human and memorable experiences of the trek.
After lunch, we’ll continue with a 3-hour climb along an ancient Inca path to Llactapata, a small Inca site located on a mountaintop at 2,750 m / 9,022 ft. From here, you’ll enjoy your first distant view of Machu Picchu, a powerful moment that makes this 5-day version especially rewarding.
Tonight, you’ll camp facing Machu Picchu. If the weather allows, you may enjoy sunset over the mountains and wake up the next morning with a cup of coffee and a beautiful sunrise view of Machu Picchu from your tent.
- Hiking Distance: 16 km / 10 mi
- Duration: 8 hours
- Campsite Altitude: 2,750 m / 9,022 ft
- Highest Altitude: 2,770 m / 9,088 ft
- Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
- Accommodation: Camping
- Difficulty: Moderate
Day 4: Llactapata – Hidroelectrica – Aguas Calientes
The first thing you’ll see today is Machu Picchu on the mountain across the valley while your trekking team serves you coffee or coca tea. This peaceful morning at Llactapata is one of the biggest reasons travelers choose the 5-day Salkantay route.
After breakfast, enjoy an easy 2-hour downhill hike to the Hidroelectrica station. Here, you’ll have your last meal with the trekking chef, say goodbye to the trail team, and begin the final hiking stretch of your Salkantay TreXperience to Aguas Calientes.
The last part of the trek is a 3-hour walk along the railway, following the Urubamba River upstream. This section is full of history, vegetation, birds, orchids, and views that slowly bring you closer to Machu Picchu Pueblo.
Once you arrive in Aguas Calientes, your guide will take you to your hotel, where you can shower, explore the town, or relax before dinner. In the evening, you’ll enjoy dinner at a local restaurant and prepare for the most important day of the Salkantay Trek.
- Hiking Distance: 14 km / 8.7 mi
- Duration: 6 hours
- Aguas Calientes Altitude: 2,000 m / 6,561 ft
- Highest Altitude: 2,840 m / 9,318 ft
- Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
- Accommodation: 3-star hotel
- Difficulty: Moderate
Day 5: Explore Machu Picchu – Return to Cusco
Today is the highlight of the Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu. You’ll wake up early, have breakfast at the hotel, and take one of the first buses up to Machu Picchu to enter the citadel in the morning with your professional guide.
Your guide will lead you through the most important areas of Machu Picchu, sharing the history, architecture, temples, terraces, and sacred spaces of this extraordinary Inca city. The guided tour lasts about 2 to 3 hours, including time for photos at the best viewpoints allowed by your assigned circuit.
If booked in advance, you can also hike Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain after the guided tour. These hikes require extra tickets and are subject to availability.
In Machu Picchu, we include Circuit 2 by default when available. If Circuit 2 is sold out, we will secure the best available option, which may be Circuit 3 or Circuit 1. We strongly suggest booking early, as tickets, circuits, and schedules are limited and assigned on a first-come, first-served basis.
After your visit, you’ll take the bus back to Aguas Calientes, have lunch (not included), pick up your bags from the hotel, and board the panoramic Vistadome Train or 360° Train to Ollantaytambo. From there, a private van will take you back to Cusco, where the TreXperience team will drop you off at your hotel.
- Tour Duration: 2-3 hours in Machu Picchu
- Machu Picchu Altitude: 2,430 m / 7,972 ft
- Meals: Breakfast at the hotel
- Difficulty: Easy
Salkantay Trek 5 Days Price and Booking
Join one of our premium small-group departures for a more personal Salkantay Trek 5 Days to Machu Picchu experience, or choose a private Salkantay Trek for extra flexibility and a more exclusive service. If you are traveling with family or friends, contact us for a customized quote based on your group size and travel preferences.
Small-Group Tour: Price Per Person
| Traveler Type | Price Per Person |
|---|---|
| Adults | From US$690 |
| Children and students | From US$660 |
Private Tour: Price Per Person
| Number of Participants | Price Per Person |
|---|---|
| 1 participant | US$ 2,120 |
| 2 participants | US$ 1,290 |
| 3 participants | US$ 1,100 |
| 4 participants | US$ 960 |
| 5 participants | US$ 820 |
| 6 participants | US$ 780 |
| 7 participants | US$ 740 |
| 8 participants | US$ 700 |
| 9+ participants | Contact us for a special rate |
Booking and Payment
- Deposit: US$200 per person to secure your booking. The remaining balance can be paid online or at our office in Cusco by credit card, PayPal, or wire transfer. Contact us if you need an alternative payment option.
- For each traveler, we require the full name exactly as shown on the passport, passport number, date of birth, passport expiration date, and nationality.
Student and Child Discount
- US$30 off
This discount applies to all travelers under 17 and students under 25 with a valid university ID. To qualify, the ID must include:
- The student’s name, photo, and university name.
- A valid expiration date. Expired IDs will not be accepted.
- ISIC cards are not accepted.
The child discount is applied automatically. Students must send a copy of their university ID when booking; if the ID is not accepted, the adult rate will apply.
Salkantay Trek 5 Days Packing List
When you sign up for the Salkantay Trek 5 Days, you’ll hike one of Peru’s most famous alternative routes to Machu Picchu. You’ll walk from high-altitude mountain areas into the warm Cloud Forest, so the terrain and weather can change quickly. Good preparation makes the trek safer, easier, and much more enjoyable.
You won’t carry all your belongings on this trek. Bring only what you need for the tour and leave the rest of your luggage safely in Cusco. We provide a duffle bag for up to 7 kg / 15 lb of your items, including your sleeping bag and air mattress if you bring or rent them.
You’ll also carry a daypack, which stays with you at all times while hiking and holds your daily essentials. We recommend keeping it light, ideally around 5 to 8 kg, so you can hike comfortably.
Essentials
On the Salkantay Trek 5 Days, you’ll be hiking in remote mountains with limited phone service and no shops nearby. Bring the right gear so you can enjoy the journey with confidence. These items are must-haves, and every hiker should buy or rent good-quality equipment.
What to Wear?
For the 5 Day Salkantay Trek, wearing layers is the smartest choice. The weather can change quickly as you move through cold high passes, warmer valleys, and humid cloud forest. Wear light, breathable layers you can easily add or remove as conditions change.
Here’s what we suggest you wear:
What to Pack in the Daypack?
Below is a packing list for your daypack. You’ll carry it every day on the Salkantay Trail, so choose one that’s light, comfortable, and durable.
We recommend a 25–35L backpack with a rain cover. Large backpacks are not allowed inside Machu Picchu. If yours is too large, you’ll need to store it in the lockers. The rule is based on the bag’s physical size, not only the number of liters, so a slightly bigger pack is usually fine as long as it is not bulky.
What to Pack in the Duffle Bag?
TreXperience will provide a duffel bag for items you don’t need while hiking. The weight limit is 7 kg / 15 lb, including your sleeping bag and air mattress if you bring or rent them. These two items usually weigh about 3 kg total.
You’ll receive your duffel bag at the safety briefing in our office the day before the trek. If you want it sooner, email us and you can pick it up early from our office in central Cusco.
What We Provide You
TreXperience includes the following items for the Salkantay Trek:
What Can You Rent with TreXperience?
Forgot something? No worries. You can rent the following camping gear from us for an extra fee.
You can also check our complete Salkantay Trek packing list.
Salkantay Travel Information
Below you will find useful information to help you prepare better and understand everything before your great trek to Machu Picchu across the beautiful trails of Salkantay.
Salkantay Altitude and 48-Hour Acclimatization Plan
The Salkantay Trek starts in Cusco, located around 3,300 meters, then follows the trail above 3,800 meters. You’ll visit Humantay Lake at 4,200 meters and cross the Salkantay Pass at 4,630 meters, the highest point of the trek. After that, the route descends into the Cloud Forest, where the average altitude is much lower.
We recommend arriving in Cusco at least 48 to 72 hours before the trek. During your first days, eat light, take easy walks, hydrate well, and avoid alcohol. If you want to understand altitude symptoms and prevention before traveling, review this official high-altitude travel advice.
Salkantay Weather by Month: What to Pack and Wear
Salkantay weather changes quickly. A warm sunny morning can turn into rain, wind, or cold conditions within minutes. No matter the season, you should be prepared for sun, rain, wind, cold nights, and warm tropical conditions in the Cloud Forest.
- April to October: Drier weather, sunnier days, and cold nights. May, June, and July can bring very clear skies, but nights may drop below zero in high areas.
- November to March: Rainy season. Showers are more common, and the Cloud Forest becomes warmer, greener, and more humid.
Pack layers: base layer, fleece, insulated jacket, waterproof shell, warm hat, gloves, quick-dry pants, rain cover, and dry bags. For more detail, read our Salkantay Trek weather guide. You can also check the official Machu Picchu weather forecast before traveling.
Salkantay 5 Days vs 4 Days: Which Route Fits You?
Both treks follow the same route during the first part of the journey. The main difference is that the 5-day Salkantay Trek includes Llactapata, a mountaintop campsite facing Machu Picchu from a distance. On a clear morning, the sunrise and views are spectacular.
The 4-day trek is shorter and usually more intense because it removes the Llactapata campsite and compresses the route. The 5-day version is better if you want a richer experience, more time on the trail, and the special view of Machu Picchu from Llactapata.
Salkantay and Machu Picchu Rules: Bags, Poles, and Drones
During the Salkantay Trek, drones are restricted in popular places like Humantay Lake and should only be used where local rules allow and where they do not disturb other travelers. Always coordinate with your guide.
Machu Picchu has strict visitor rules. Drones are not allowed, large bags must stay outside, and trekking poles, tripods, and selfie sticks may be restricted. Follow your assigned circuit and entry time. You can review our Machu Picchu circuits guide for more details.
Food and Water on the Trail
We provide fresh meals prepared by our trekking chef and safe boiled or filtered water during meals. Bring a reusable bottle with 1.5 to 2 liters of capacity, electrolytes, and your favorite personal snacks.
If you need vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, or other special meals, let us know when booking. We will prepare separate options whenever needed.
Charging, Wi-Fi, and Signal on Salkantay
Signal usually drops after the first day and returns near towns. Some camps may offer paid Wi-Fi or limited charging, but it can be slow and shared. Bring a 10,000 to 20,000 mAh power bank, switch your phone to airplane mode, and download maps, music, and important information before the trek.
For safety, our team carries communication equipment such as radio or satellite phone depending on the route and group operation.
Responsible Travel on Salkantay
Travel responsibly by packing out your trash, carrying a reusable bottle, avoiding single-use plastics, and staying on marked paths. Keep your duffel within the weight limit to protect mules and support safe working conditions for the team.
TreXperience is a 100% Peruvian local operator. We believe a premium trek should also be a responsible trek: one that protects the route, supports local families, and treats guides, chefs, muleteers, porters, and support staff with dignity.
Machu Picchu is part of the Historic Sanctuary of Machu Picchu and is also listed by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site, so responsible visitor behavior matters.
Bathrooms, Showers, and Hygiene on the Trek
Expect basic toilets at camps and occasional paid facilities along the trail. Carry tissue, hand sanitizer, wet wipes, and a small quick-dry towel for comfort.
Some camps may offer cold showers or hot water for a small fee. You’ll have a proper shower in Aguas Calientes before your Machu Picchu visit.
If Plans Change: Rain, Strikes, and Contingency Plan
Weather, road closures, strikes, or route conditions can affect travel in the Andes. If needed, we adjust start times, pace, transportation, or logistics to prioritize safety and protect the experience.
Travel insurance is strongly recommended. Our team will keep you informed by WhatsApp and during briefings if any operational changes are needed.
Machu Picchu Tickets and Circuits After Salkantay
Machu Picchu tickets are assigned by route and entry time. This Salkantay Trek includes a Machu Picchu tour with Circuit 2 by default when available because it offers one of the most complete experiences of the archaeological site.
If Circuit 2 is not available, we will secure the best available option, which may be Circuit 1 or Circuit 3. There is no pre-booking hold; tickets are purchased with full names and passport numbers and are subject to availability.
For official information, you can review the official Machu Picchu circuits and routes or the Tu Boleto platform.
Money and Tipping on Salkantay
Bring Peruvian soles in small bills for snacks, showers, and optional tips. ATMs are available in Cusco and Aguas Calientes, but not on the trail. Keep cash in a safe pouch and carry only what you need each day.
Tipping is optional but customary. Suggested amounts vary by group size, and your guide can explain this during the briefing.
Duffel and Daypack Guide
Your duffel is carried by pack animals or transferred by the team depending on the section of the trek. Keep it within the usual 7 kg / 15 lb limit, including your sleeping bag and air mattress if you bring or rent them.
Hike with a comfortable daypack for water, layers, rain gear, sun protection, camera, passport, and personal medication. Store suitcases in Cusco with your hotel or at our office, and keep valuables with you at all times.
Salkantay Trek 5 Days FAQs
What is Salkantay?
Salkantay is one of the most impressive mountains in the Cusco region, rising to 6,271 m / 20,574 ft in the Vilcabamba mountain range. In Andean tradition, it is considered an “Apu,” or sacred mountain spirit, connected with weather, water, and the life of the surrounding communities.
The Salkantay Trek follows the landscapes around this powerful mountain before descending toward the Cloud Forest and Machu Picchu.
Do I need permits for the Salkantay Trek?
No, the Salkantay Trek does not require the same type of permit as the Classic Inca Trail. However, your Machu Picchu ticket must be secured in advance, and this is one of the main reasons we recommend booking early.
What time can I enter Machu Picchu?
Entry is based on the time slot printed on your Machu Picchu ticket. The final time depends on availability, your assigned circuit, and the train schedule. Our team plans the wake-up time, bus, guided tour, and return train so your visit runs smoothly.
How is the weather on the Salkantay Trek?
Weather changes quickly because the route crosses different altitudes and ecosystems. You can experience cold nights near Salkantay Mountain, strong sun at high altitude, rain at any time, and warm humid weather in the Cloud Forest.
Is it very cold on the Salkantay Trek?
Yes, especially during the first nights near Salkantay Mountain and Humantay Peak. Temperatures can drop close to freezing or below, depending on the season. Bring warm layers, gloves, a hat, and a good sleeping bag.
Can it be hot on the Salkantay Trek?
Yes. After crossing Salkantay Pass, the route descends into the Cloud Forest, where the weather becomes warmer and more humid. Light clothing, sun protection, insect repellent, and a reusable water bottle are important for the final hiking days.
How hard is the Salkantay Trek 5 Days?
The Salkantay Trek 5 Days is moderate to challenging. The toughest day is Day 2, when you cross Salkantay Pass at 4,630 m / 15,190 ft. You don’t need to be an expert hiker, but good fitness, proper acclimatization, and a steady pace make a big difference.
How should I prepare for the Salkantay Trek?
Build stamina with regular hikes, stairs, long walks, or gym sessions before your trip. Practice walking uphill and downhill with a daypack. Most importantly, arrive in Cusco at least 2 days before the trek to acclimatize.
When is the best time to hike Salkantay and visit Machu Picchu?
The best months are usually from April to October, during the drier season. May and September are especially good for clear views and balanced conditions. The rainy season can still be beautiful, but trails may be muddy and mountain views less predictable.
Is the 5-day Salkantay Trek better than the 4-day version?
The 5-day version is ideal if you want a fuller experience and the special campsite at Llactapata, with distant views of Machu Picchu. The 4-day version is shorter and more compressed. Both are beautiful, but the 5-day route feels more complete and better paced.
Are Machu Picchu tickets included?
Yes. Your Machu Picchu ticket is included. We include Circuit 2 by default when available. If Circuit 2 is sold out, we will secure the best available alternative, which may be Circuit 1 or Circuit 3. You can also read our guide to Machu Picchu circuits.
Can I hike Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain?
Yes. You can add Huayna Picchu Mountain or Machu Picchu Mountain after the guided tour, depending on availability. You can only choose one mountain, and advance booking is required because tickets are limited.
What is Salka Glamp?
Salka Glamp is our premium campsite in Salkantaypampa, located below Salkantay Mountain and away from the typical crowds. You’ll sleep in comfortable glamping-style bell tents and enjoy clear skies, mountain views, hot drinks, and a peaceful basecamp atmosphere.
What is special about Llactapata?
Llactapata is one of the highlights of the 5-day Salkantay route. You’ll camp on a mountaintop facing Machu Picchu from a distance. On a clear morning, waking up with coffee and a view of Machu Picchu is one of the most memorable moments of the trek.
What food experiences are included?
This trek includes fresh trail meals prepared by our expert trekking chefs, plus a traditional Pachamanca barbecue and a local coffee experience on Day 3. You’ll learn how coffee is grown, processed, roasted, and prepared with local hosts.
Is the Vistadome Train included?
Yes. The return includes the panoramic Vistadome Train or 360° Train, depending on availability. These trains have wide windows and offer beautiful views between Aguas Calientes and Ollantaytambo.
Is camping equipment included?
Yes. Camping equipment is included, except for the sleeping bag, air mattress, and trekking poles, which you can rent from us. The trekking team and cargo animals carry the shared equipment and approved duffel weight, so you hike only with your daypack and daily essentials.
Can I leave my luggage with TreXperience?
Yes. We offer free luggage storage in Cusco while you are on the trek. You can leave your bags with us and pick them up after the tour. Many hotels in Cusco can also store luggage if you prefer.
Can I hike the Salkantay Trek without a guide?
Some travelers hike parts of the Salkantay route independently, but we do not recommend it for most visitors. The route is remote, weather can change fast, and logistics can be complicated. A guided trek gives you safety support, meals, transport, camping, Machu Picchu coordination, and a certified guide for the citadel.
What makes TreXperience different?
TreXperience is a 100% Peruvian local tour operator focused on premium small groups, safety, responsible tourism, expert guides, fresh food, and fair treatment for the trekking team. We do not just organize the route; we care for the full experience, from your first question to your return to Cusco.