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Explore the Peruvian Andes on a 5-day Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu, offering a rugged and scenic alternative to the traditional Inca Trail. These guided expeditions include high-altitude passes, visits to Humantay Lake, and diverse accommodations ranging from camping to glass domes.
Likely to Sell Out Trek through diverse Andean landscapes, from glacial lakes to coffee farms, on this 5-day journey to Machu Picchu.
Likely to Sell Out Trek past glaciated peaks and cloud forests to Machu Picchu while staying in unique glass cabanas and hobbit houses.
Likely to Sell Out A lodge-to-lodge trek to Machu Picchu via Humantay Lake and the Salkantay Pass with small group sizes.
Hike a rugged, remote mountain path to Machu Picchu on a route far less crowded than the traditional Inca Trail.
A 5-day trek to Machu Picchu via Humantay Lake and Llactapata, featuring local coffee farms and panoramic train views.
Likely to Sell Out Trek across the high-altitude Ausangate range and follow ancient Inca trails on this expedition to Machu Picchu.
A 5-day trek through the Salkantay Pass and Humantay Lake to Machu Picchu, featuring overnight stays in Sky Lodge domes.
Trek 75km through the Andes and high jungle to Machu Picchu, guided by locals and supported by fresh meals.
Hike from 4,000-meter Andean peaks to the jungle, ending with zip-lining and a guided tour of Machu Picchu.
A five-day trek through high Andean peaks and lush cloud forests, concluding with a guided tour of Machu Picchu.
Read what travelers share about their experience visiting Salkantay Trek — from practical tips to personal highlights.
The Salkantay Trek is a spectacular 5-day alternative to the classic Inca Trail, taking you on a physically demanding but highly rewarding journey. You will hike approximately 74 kilometers, transitioning from freezing high-altitude Andean peaks down to the lush, warm tropical cloud forests before finally arriving at Machu Picchu.
A stunning turquoise glacial lagoon situated at the base of Humantay Mountain. It is a steep climb on the first day, but the vibrant emerald waters are unforgettable.
The highest and most challenging point of the trek at 4,630 meters. You will stand directly beneath the massive glaciers of the Vilcabamba mountain range.
Watch the landscape completely transform as you drop 1,500 meters from the freezing alpine zone into a lush, subtropical jungle filled with coffee and cacao plantations.
Many tours feature exclusive glass cabanas or sky domes at premium campsites. You can lie in a warm bed and gaze directly up at the unpolluted Andean night sky.
An uncrowded archaeological site that provides hikers with their very first distant glimpse of Machu Picchu and Huayna Picchu across the valley.
The grand finale of your 5-day trek. Explore the ancient stone temples, agricultural terraces, and iconic viewpoints of this world-famous Inca citadel.
Booking a 5-day Salkantay Trek requires careful planning, as you will be tackling extreme altitudes and need to secure Machu Picchu entry well in advance.
Tours range from classic budget camping hikes starting around $290 to premium glamping adventures that cost upwards of $1,200. Higher-end tours include stays in sky domes, glass cabanas, and upgraded return train tickets.
Entrance to Machu Picchu is almost always included in your tour price. However, spaces sell out quickly, so you must book your trek at least 5 months in advance to secure the highly desired Circuit 2 tickets.
You do not have to carry all your gear. Tours provide a personal duffel bag allowance (usually between 5 to 7 kg) which is carried by horses or mules during the hardest parts of the trek.
This is a highly demanding trek with steep climbs and daily walking distances up to 22 kilometers. It is not recommended for pregnant travelers, those with poor cardiovascular health, or anyone with spinal injuries.
Because the trail reaches an extreme elevation of 4,630 meters, you must arrive in Cusco at least 2 to 3 days before your trek begins to adjust to the altitude and prevent severe mountain sickness.
All Salkantay Trek tours have a strict non-refundable policy. Once you book, all sales are final and no refunds are available for cancellations, largely due to the rigid ticketing system for Machu Picchu.
While there is no official government age limit, most tour operators do not allow children under 12-14 years old. Older adults are permitted but are strongly advised to consult a doctor before booking.
| Classic Guided Hike | Sky Dome Glamping Tour | Premium Glamping Adventure | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Accommodation Style | Standard camping tents & 3-star hotel | Glass cabanas, Sky domes & Hobbit houses | Luxury domes & superior 3-star hotel |
| Luggage Allowance | 5 kg to 6 kg per person | 7 kg per person | Up to 10 kg per person |
| Return Transport | Standard train or budget bus | Expedition Train to Ollantaytambo | Vistadome Observatory or Prime Train |
| Price From | $290 USD | $680 USD | $1,270 USD |
Trek Hours: The Salkantay Trek itself takes place in open nature and does not have strict gate hours. However, tour operators run on a tight schedule to maximize daylight and avoid afternoon rains.
Starting the Trek: Tours include private transportation from Cusco to the trailhead at Challacancha or Mollepata, which is about a 100-kilometer drive taking roughly 3.5 hours.
Returning to Cusco: After visiting Machu Picchu on day 5, you have a few options to get back:
Dry Season (May to October): This is universally the best time to hike the Salkantay Trek. You will experience predictable weather, clear blue skies, and minimal rainfall. This ensures the trails are safe and the mountain views are completely unobstructed.
Rainy Season (November to April): These are the worst months to attempt the trek. Heavy rains make the steep, rocky trails slippery and dangerous. Landslides and mudslides are common and can occasionally wipe out entire sections of the trail, making transport hazardous.
Wheelchair Access: The Salkantay Trek is not wheelchair accessible. The route consists of extremely rugged, steep, and high-altitude mountain terrain that requires significant physical mobility. At Machu Picchu, wheelchair users can access a few areas like the Main Entrance Plaza and Guardhouse Viewpoint using specialized manual track wheelchairs, but the trek itself is impossible.
Elderly and Children: Older adults must consult a doctor before attempting this hike due to the extreme 4,630-meter altitude and 22-kilometer daily distances. Children under 14 are generally not allowed by most agencies, and those over 14 must be in excellent physical shape.
Bathrooms and Showers: Facilities along the trail are basic and rustic for the first few days. Some premium campsites offer hot showers and outdoor jacuzzis, but standard tours will have limited washing facilities until you reach Aguas Calientes on day 4, where you will stay in a hotel with private bathrooms.
Food and Water: Tours provide a professional chef who prepares all meals. Boiled, drinkable water is provided daily to refill your bottles. Vegetarian and vegan options are available at no extra charge if requested in advance.
Cash: Bring at least 1,200 Peruvian soles in cash. There are no ATMs on the trail until Aguas Calientes, and you will need cash for toilets, hot springs, extra snacks, and tipping your guides and porters.
Drones and Photography: Drones are strictly prohibited at sensitive sites like Humantay Lake and Machu Picchu. Tripods are allowed for standard photography, but commercial filming requires special permits.
Equipment Restrictions: Trekking poles with metal tips are not allowed at Machu Picchu to protect the ancient stones; you must use rubber-tipped poles.
Environmental Laws: Tourists must comply with strict environmental regulations. Littering or damaging natural flora is forbidden. You are expected to pack out your solid waste and respect the local communities that maintain the trail.
No, unlike the classic Inca Trail, you do not need a special permit to hike the Salkantay route. However, you do need an entrance ticket for Machu Picchu, which is usually included in your tour package.
The classic Salkantay Trek covers a total distance of approximately 74 kilometers (45.98 miles) spread over 5 days. The longest hiking day is usually day two, which covers about 22 kilometers.
The highest point is the Salkantay Pass, which reaches an elevation of 4,630 meters (15,190 feet). You will cross this challenging pass on the second day of the trek.
No, all 5-day tours provide a duffel bag for your personal belongings, usually allowing between 5 to 7 kg per person. This bag is carried by horses or mules during the trek, so you only need to carry a small daypack with daily essentials.
Salkantay Trek tours have a strict 'all sales are final' policy. Because Machu Picchu tickets and train passes are purchased immediately and are non-transferable, no refunds are available for cancellations.
Yes, all meals (except sometimes the final lunch in Aguas Calientes) are prepared by a professional trail chef and included in the price. Vegetarian and vegan options are readily available at no extra charge if you notify the operator when booking.
Yes, altitude sickness is a significant risk since the trail peaks at 4,630 meters. It is highly recommended that you spend at least 2 to 3 days in Cusco before your trek to acclimate properly.
You must wear sturdy, waterproof hiking boots. The weather in the Andes is unpredictable, and waterproof footwear is essential to prevent slipping on wet, muddy, or rocky trail sections. Standard running shoes are not recommended.
Drones are strictly prohibited in several key areas, including Humantay Lake and the entire Machu Picchu archaeological site. You must respect local flight restrictions throughout the sanctuary.
Most tours include a train ticket (Expedition or Vistadome) from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo, followed by a private bus back to your hotel in Cusco. Budget tours might use a cheaper, 7-8 hour bus route from Hidroelectrica instead.
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This five-day trek offers a rugged alternative to the traditional Inca Trail, crossing the high Salkantay Pass and descending into lush cloud forests. The journey begins with a visit to the turquoise waters of Humantay Lake before climbing toward the snow-capped Salkantay peak. Along the way, you will walk along ancient sections of the original Inca Path, moving from high-altitude glaciers to the warmer, humid ecosystems of the Peruvian jungle. Group sizes are kept small to ensure a more personal experience as you navigate the remote mountain trails. Accommodations include three nights in exclusive mountain lodges situated away from the main crowds. Before reaching the final destination, the route passes through high-jungle valleys for a visit to a local organic coffee farm to learn about regional production. The trek concludes with a guided exploration of Machu Picchu. Throughout the trip, you will experience the transition from remote Andean villages to the world-renowned UNESCO site, making it an ideal choice for hikers looking for a deep immersion into Peru's diverse natural landscapes.
All sales are final. No refund is available for cancellations.
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This trek crosses the high-altitude pass of Salkantay Mountain before descending into the lush cloud forest. It is a less crowded alternative to the Inca Trail, offering wide-open Andean landscapes and a variety of ecosystems. The route leads directly to Aguas Calientes, the town at the base of Machu Picchu, where you will spend the final day exploring the ruins. Accommodations include specialized glass cabanas and 'Hobbit Houses' featuring outdoor jacuzzis. Throughout the journey, you will be served gourmet meals and visit a local coffee farm. The expedition is led by indigenous guides from the region, providing local expertise and cultural insight as you make your way toward the ancient citadel.
All sales are final. No refund is available for cancellations.
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This trek follows the Salkantay trail through the Andes, leading to the ruins of Machu Picchu. Along the route, you will visit the turquoise waters of Humantay Lake and cross the Salkantay Pass, the highest point of the journey. The path transitions from high-altitude mountain scenery into the lush edges of the cloud forest. Instead of traditional camping, this version features stays in mountain lodges equipped with private bathrooms, hot showers, and comfortable beds. Traveling in small groups allows for a more flexible pace and direct support from guides, who manage the logistics and navigation throughout the multi-day trip.
All sales are final. No refund is available for cancellations.
English, Spanish
The Salkantay Trek provides a quieter, more physical alternative to the traditional Inca Trail for reaching Machu Picchu. Because the route is more remote and the terrain more challenging, it sees significantly fewer hikers, offering a sense of isolation that is difficult to find on the more famous paths. The journey transitions through diverse ecological zones, from high-altitude glacial passes to dense cloud forests. Historically, the Incas regarded this landscape as sacred, and much of that original character remains intact today. It is a practical choice for those who prioritize natural scenery and a backcountry atmosphere over the standard tourist infrastructure.
All sales are final. No refund is available for cancellations.
English, Spanish
This five-day trek follows the Salkantay route to Machu Picchu, starting with a hike to the glacial waters of Humantay Lake. The trail crosses high Andean passes near snow-capped peaks before descending into the cloud forest. Along the way, you will visit local coffee farms and participate in a traditional Pachamanca cooking experience where food is prepared in an underground stone oven. Accommodations are a mix of glamping tents, traditional Andean huts, and a three-star hotel on the final night. A key feature of this itinerary is camping at Llactapata, a site that provides a direct view of the Machu Picchu citadel from across the valley. After a guided tour of the ruins, the return journey to Cusco is made via the Vistadome panoramic train. This tour is managed by a local operator based in Cusco and includes round-trip airport transfers. Participation in this trek directly supports social projects in the region's local communities.
All sales are final. No refund is available for cancellations.
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This expedition combines the high-altitude challenges of the Ausangate circuit with the historic paths leading to Machu Picchu. You will navigate the steep passes of the Vilcanota mountain range, passing glacial lakes and remote Andean villages where traditional life remains largely unchanged. This portion of the trek is designed for those who want to experience the raw, uncrowded side of the Peruvian highlands. After crossing the mountain passes, the route connects with the stone-paved Inca trails that descend toward the cloud forest. The journey concludes with a guided tour of the Machu Picchu citadel, where you will learn about the site's architectural history and its role within the Inca Empire. This trek provides a comprehensive look at both the natural geography of the Andes and the archaeological heritage of the region.
All sales are final. No refund is available for cancellations.
English, Spanish
This five-day trek begins with a 4:00 AM to 5:00 AM pickup from your Cusco hotel. The route leads you to the turquoise waters of Humantay Lake before ascending the Salkantay Pass at 4,600 meters, offering direct views of the sacred snow-capped peak. You will follow ancient Inca trails through diverse terrain, including a stop at the Llactapata ruins, which provide a unique perspective of Machu Picchu from across the valley. Accommodations are provided in Sky Lodge domes, offering a glamping experience throughout the journey. A pre-trek briefing takes place at your hotel one or two days before departure between 6:00 PM and 6:30 PM. The tour concludes with a guided exploration of the Machu Picchu citadel followed by a return transfer to your accommodation in Cusco. With a physical rating of 3, this trek is considered demanding due to the high altitude and steep climbs. It is designed for active travelers who are comfortable with several days of strenuous hiking. The itinerary combines the natural scenery of the Andes with the historical significance of the region's ancient ruins.
All sales are final. No refund is available for cancellations.
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This 75km trek offers a direct route through the diverse landscapes of the Peruvian Andes. Starting in the high mountains, you will pass glacial lakes and steep ridges before descending into the lush vegetation of the cloud forest. The path serves as a rugged alternative to the Inca Trail, focusing on the natural transition between different ecological zones. A local guide accompanies the group to navigate the trails and share knowledge of the area. To support the physical demands of the high-altitude hike, the tour includes nutritious meals prepared daily. The journey concludes at the gates of Machu Picchu after several days of walking through changing terrain.
All sales are final. No refund is available for cancellations.
English, Spanish
The first two days of this trek take you through the high Andes, reaching elevations of approximately 4,000 meters. The route passes directly through a landscape of snow-capped peaks and high-altitude blue lakes. On the third day, the terrain changes as you cross the mountain pass and descend into the high jungle, where you can soak in natural hot springs to recover from the hike. The final two days transition into more active adventure, including a zip-lining excursion through the forest canopy. The trip concludes with a visit to Machu Picchu, providing ample time to explore the stone ruins and learn about the history of the Inca citadel.
All sales are final. No refund is available for cancellations.
English, Spanish
This five-day trek offers a rugged alternative to the traditional Inca Trail, crossing through diverse Peruvian landscapes. The first two days are defined by the high-altitude terrain of the puna, where the snow-capped peaks of Salkantay and Humantay dominate the skyline. On the third day, the trail descends from the cold highlands into the warmer, lush environment of the cloud forest. The journey continues toward Machu Picchu Pueblo, the base for the final leg of the trip. The trek culminates on the fifth day with a visit to the Machu Picchu citadel. Recognized by National Geographic Adventure Travel Magazine as one of the top 25 treks in the world, this route provides a deep immersion into the geography of the Andes before reaching the historic site.
All sales are final. No refund is available for cancellations.
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