The Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu 5 Days with Wonders of Peru Expeditions takes you across high Andean passes and glaciated terrain into lush cloud forest. As a result, you experience dramatic shifts in landscape, climate, and ecology over five days. In addition, the trek includ...See more

The Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu 5 Days with Wonders of Peru Expeditions takes you across high Andean passes and glaciated terrain into lush cloud forest. As a result, you experience dramatic shifts in landscape, climate, and ecology over five days. In addition, the trek includes porter and horse support, chef-prepared meals, and a guided visit to Machu Picchu.

Why Choose the Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu 5 Days with Wonders of Peru Expeditions?

This Salkantay route ranks among the Top 25 treks in the world by National Geographic Adventure Travel Magazine. Certified bilingual guides lead small groups along the trail while porters and horses carry your main gear so you only need a daypack with water and personal items.

Our safety procedures include an acclimatization plan, first-aid kits, and altitude protocols. You spend nights 1 through 3 in tents at established campsites. Then, on night 4, you stay in a hotel in Aguas Calientes. Our chef prepares all meals in camp, and we accommodate dietary needs with advance notice.

What to Expect on the Salkantay Trek 5 Days 4 Nights

Each day begins with an early start to make the most of good weather. After morning tea and breakfast, you hike through steady ascents and descents as the landscape shifts from high-altitude zones into cloud-forest sections. Notably, the Salkantay Trail in Peru stands as the best alternative trek to Machu Picchu. Because of this, adventurers who want a wilder, less crowded route choose it over the classic Inca Trail.

After the trek, you take a guided transfer and train to Aguas Calientes. The following morning, you enjoy a guided visit to Machu Picchu. Above all, this route offers the widest range of activities: camping, hiking, birding, zip lining, hot springs, and a coffee plantation tour. Additionally, trained staff run safety briefings before every extra activity.

Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu Experience Highlights

5-day guided Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu with Wonders of Peru Expeditions.
Ranked Top 25 treks worldwide by National Geographic Adventure Travel Magazine.
Porters and horses carry main gear, so clients only carry daypacks.
Nights 1 through 3: tent camping at established campsites. Night 4: hotel in Aguas Calientes.
Our chef prepares all meals in camp and accommodates special diets with advance notice.
Cross the 4,630m Salkantay Pass and glaciated sections into cloud-forest microclimates.
Early-morning visit to Humantay Lake for uncrowded photos at sunrise.
Zip lining through the cloud-forest canopy with safety briefing, full gear, and trained staff.
Soak in natural hot springs after the trek.
Visit a working coffee plantation to hand-grind beans and sample fresh Peruvian coffee.
Wide activity mix: camping, hiking, birding, ziplining, hot springs, and coffee tour.

Visiting between April and August? See our Machu Picchu High Season Guide for current ticket release policy, what to bring, and how we help secure your entry during peak season.

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Duration

5 Days

Group Size

Language

English, Spanish

Highlights

Preparing for Your Salkantay Trek Adventure

Embarking on the Salkantay Trek is an exciting journey, and proper preparation is key to making the most of this incredible experience. Here are some essential tips to ensure you are ready for the trek ahead.

Physical Training

Begin your training at least a few weeks prior to your departure. Incorporate regular cardio exercises such as hiking, running, or swimming to build your endurance. Focus on strength training, especially for your legs, to handle the varying terrain. Aim for at least three to four hikes of varied lengths and elevations to simulate the conditions you will encounter on the trail.

Acclimatization in Cusco

As part of your preparation, plan to spend two full days in Cusco before starting the Salkantay Trek. This will help your body adjust to the high altitude, reducing the risk of altitude sickness. Take it easy during this time; explore the city at a relaxed pace, stay hydrated, and consider light activities to acclimate properly.

Gear Essentials

Having the right gear is crucial for your comfort and safety. Be sure to review the packing list thoroughly to ensure you have everything you need for the trek. It is also important to keep in mind that your passport must be valid for more than six months beyond your return date back home.

Health and Safety Precautions

Stay hydrated before and during the hike. Consult with your doctor about travel insurance and any vaccinations you might need prior to your trip. Additionally, pack a basic first aid kit, including personal medications.

Packing Smart

Keep your pack organized by using packing cubes or dry bags to separate items. Include quick-dry towels, biodegradable soap, sunscreen, insect repellent, and snacks for energy. Leave behind any unnecessary items to lighten your load.

Mental Preparation

Mental readiness is just as important as physical conditioning. Familiarize yourself with the trail and the history of the Inca civilization. Understanding the significance of the sites you will be visiting can enhance your experience. By preparing thoroughly for your Salkantay Trek adventure, you will be set to appreciate the breathtaking landscapes and rich culture that await you on this remarkable journey. Happy trekking!

Include/Exclude

Pre-Trek Briefing the Evening Before DepartureMeet your guide(s), review the itinerary, and ask any questions
Morning Pickup from Your Hotel
Private Transportation to the Trailhead
Professional Licensed Guide Throughout the TrekEnglish, Spanish, French, or Portuguese-speaking - contact us for special language request.
Entry Permits to All Sites Along the Trek
Coffee Plantation TourEnjoy our immersive coffee plantation tour learning the process from growing, harvesting, and processing. Enjoy a cup of your own harvested coffee and buy a bag or 2 to take home with you.
Horses and Porters to Carry Your Main Gear Throughout the Trek
Spacious High-End North Face 4-Season Tent. 2 People per Tent.
Three-Inch Thick Inflatable Mattress
Dining Tent Equipped with Tables and Chairs
Dedicated Chef with Full Cooking Equipment and Kitchen Tent
All Meals Included on the Trek — Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Afternoon Tea
All Dietary Preferences and Restrictions Accommodated
Clean Drinking Water to Refill Water Bottles
Hot Water for Washing Up Every Morning and Evening
First-Aid Kit with Emergency Oxygen Tank - Emergency Horse.
One Entrance Ticket to Machu Picchu Archaeological Complex (6am–11am)
Guided Tour of Machu Picchu
Bus from Machu Picchu Down to Aguas Calientes (or Walk)
Train from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo
Private Transport Back to Your Hotel in Cusco

Extra Machu Picchu Hikes
Travel InsuranceThis is recommended for all international travel.
Hot Spring Entry TicketChoose this ticket as an add-on during checkout for USD 25 per person
Zip Line ExcursionsChoose this ticket as an add-on during checkout for USD 45 per person
Vendor Purchases and SouvenirsWe will meet locals along the trek route. Many will be selling water, sports drinks, snacks, alcohol, textiles and other souvenirs. Make sure to bring some extra cash for any on trek purchases
Meals on Day 5Lunch in Aguas Calientes and dinner in Cusco
Sleeping Bag RentalIf you don’t have a sleeping bag, you can rent one from our company. Our sleeping bags are made from high-quality materials, designed to keep you warm in temperatures as low as −18°C (0°F). They feature a mummy shape for optimal heat retention and come with a sleeping liner for enhanced warmth and cleanliness. Each bag is meticulously cleaned and maintained after every use. Price: US$ 45.00 per person
Trekking Poles RentalTrekking poles, equipped with rubber tips, can be extremely beneficial for navigating rough terrain, especially when ascending or descending trails. You have the option to rent a set from our company. Price: US$ 15.00 per person
Gratuities for Our StaffWhile our team is compensated fairly, any extra tips are always appreciated as a token of recognition for their hard work and dedication. Many participants choose to combine their tips and present them either directly to the trekking team or via their guide.
Additional Costs and Delays Beyond Our ControlThis may include unexpected events such as landslides, severe weather, changes to the itinerary for safety reasons, health-related issues, pandemics, alterations in government policies, political unrest, strikes, force majeure, and similar circumstances. We typically secure your tickets and all logistics in advance—covering expenses for permits, scheduling, accommodations, supplies, and staff coordination to ensure that everything is ready for your trip. However, should any unforeseen events incur additional costs, these will be the responsibility of the participant, as we also need to rearrange various aspects on our end. We greatly appreciate your understanding and cooperation in these situations.

Travel Itinerary

Day 1 Cusco – Mollepata – Challacancha – Soraypampa – Humantay Lake

Day 2 Soraypampa – Salkantay Pass – Huayracmachay – Collpapampa

Day 3 Collpapampa – La Playa – Lucmabamba

Day 4 Lucmabamba – Llactapata – Hidroeléctrica – Aguas Calientes

Day 5 Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu – Ollantaytambo – Cusco

How physically difficult is the Salkantay Trek, and how should I prepare?

The Salkantay Trek is rated moderate to challenging. Day 2 is the hardest, climbing to Salkantay Pass at 4,630 m (15,190 ft). We recommend starting a training routine at least a few weeks before departure — regular cardio like hiking, running, or swimming to build endurance, plus leg-focused strength training. Aim to complete at least three to four hikes of varied length and elevation to simulate trail conditions. Being able to walk 15 km (9 miles) in a single day is a good benchmark.

What documents do I need, and what happens if I renew my passport before the trek?

You must carry your original passport — the same one used when booking your trek. It is checked at the trail checkpoint at the trailhead at Challacancha, at Machu Picchu, and when boarding the train. Your passport must have at least six months of validity beyond your return date. If you renew your passport after booking, notify us immediately and bring both your old and new passports.

How far in advance should I book, and can I change my dates?

Salkantay permits and bookings are flexible: the trail has availability year-round and date changes are generally possible. However Machu Picchu tickets — especially Circuit 2 and additional hikes (Huayna Picchu, Machu Picchu Mountain) — can sell out months in advance and cannot be changed once reserved. We recommend booking and confirming Machu Picchu tickets 3–6 months ahead to secure your preferred circuit and entry time. Provide complete, accurate passport information at booking so tickets and permits can be issued without delay.

How many days should I spend in Cusco before starting the trek?

We strongly recommend arriving in Cusco at least two full days before the trek to acclimatize to the altitude (3,400 m / 11,150 ft). Take it easy during this time — explore the city at a relaxed pace, stay well hydrated, drink coca tea, and avoid strenuous activity. This significantly reduces the risk of altitude sickness on the trail.

What is altitude sickness and how is it managed on the trail?

Altitude sickness can cause headaches, nausea, dizziness, and fatigue at elevations above 2,500 m. On the Salkantay Trek, the highest point is Salkantay Pass at 4,630 m. Stay hydrated, drink coca tea, eat light meals, and hike at a comfortable pace. Our guides carry a first-aid kit and emergency oxygen. If symptoms become severe, we will assist you to the nearest town, and helicopter evacuation is available if necessary (travel insurance covering medical evacuation is strongly recommended).

What gear is provided and what do I need to bring myself?

We provide spacious 4-season tents (shared by 2 people in a 4-person tent), 3 inch mattresses, a dining tent with tables and chairs, a private portable toilet, and a duffel bag for your personal gear. You should bring comfortable hiking boots with ankle support, a daypack (30–40L), a water container (2–3L, CamelBak strongly recommended), a headlamp, rain gear, warm layers, and sunscreen. Sleeping bags and trekking poles can be rented from us if needed. See the full Packing List and Inclusions for complete details.

What is the duffel bag weight limit and how should I pack it?

Peruvian regulations limit each duffel bag to 7 kg (15 lbs) to protect the health of porters. From this allowance, allocate approximately 2 kg for your sleeping bag and 1 kg for your mattress, leaving about 4 kg for personal items. Pack 2–3 t-shirts, 2 hiking pants, 4–5 sets of socks and undergarments, a warm jacket, waterproof gloves, camp shoes, a quick-dry towel, and toiletries. Anything over the weight limit must be carried in your own daypack.

What are the meals like on the trail?

Our chef prepares fresh, gourmet meals daily including breakfast, lunch, afternoon tea, and dinner. Each morning starts with coca tea delivered to your tent. Afternoon tea includes hot drinks, popcorn, and snacks. Vegetarian, vegan, and allergy-specific diets are accommodated at no extra cost — just notify us when booking. We also provide boiled, filtered water to refill your bottles throughout the trek. Please bring your own water supply for the first morning until the first lunch stop.

What are the toilet facilities like on the trail?

We provide a private portable toilet tent exclusively for our group at each campsite — separate from the basic government facilities. It features a proper seat and is maintained to clean, sanitary standards. This means convenient nighttime access without long walks in the dark. Hand-washing facilities with soap are provided before meals.

What is the weather like, and what should I wear?

Mountain weather is very unpredictable. Expect warm conditions in the lower valleys, cold and windy at higher passes, and humid warmth in the cloud forest. Nighttime temperatures at the second campsite can drop to around 3 degrees C. Layer dressing is essential — wear moisture-wicking base layers, a warm fleece or down jacket, and always carry waterproof rain gear. A sun hat, sunglasses with UV protection, and waterproof gloves are important. The Salkantay Trek closes every February for maintenance during the rainy season.

Is there phone or internet access on the trail?

There is no cell phone signal or Wi-Fi on the Salkantay Trek. Our guides carry satellite phones for emergency communication. If you need to contact family in an emergency, your guide can assist. We recommend informing loved ones in advance that you will be out of contact for five days. Bring a portable battery charger for your camera or phone — there is no electricity along the trail.

Do I need travel insurance?

Travel insurance is not included but is strongly recommended. Your policy should cover trip cancellation, medical expenses at high altitude, and emergency helicopter evacuation. If you are unable to continue the trek due to illness or injury, we will assist you to the nearest medical facility, but evacuation costs and medical treatment are the responsibility of the trekker.

What happens on the Machu Picchu day?

On Day 5, you wake early for a light breakfast, then begin hiking to reach the Sun Gate (Inti Punku) for sunrise over Machu Picchu — an experience exclusive to Salkantay Trek hikers. From there, you descend to the citadel for a guided tour lasting approximately 1.5 to 2 hours. Afterward, you have free time to explore. Optional mountain hikes include Huayna Picchu and Machu Picchu Mountain (additional fees, advance booking required). Walking poles and large backpacks are not permitted inside the citadel.

Where does my main luggage stay while I am on the trek?

Your main luggage can be stored securely at your hotel or at our office in Cusco during the trek, free of charge. Only pack what you need for the four days in your duffel bag and daypack. We recommend placing valuables in your hotel safe and keeping a receipt.

Is tipping customary, and how much should I tip?

Tipping is not compulsory but is customary and very much appreciated by our guides, porters, and cooks. On the final evening of the trek, there is a celebration dinner where groups typically pool their tips and present them directly to the team. The amount is at your discretion based on the quality of service you received.

Why Trek With Wonders of Peru

Small Groups

Gourmet Meals

Safety First

Local & Sustainable

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Why Book With Us

Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu 5 Days / 4 Nights

Why Choose the Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu 5 Days with Wonders of Peru Expeditions?

What to Expect on the Salkantay Trek 5 Days 4 Nights

Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu Experience Highlights

Duration

Group Size

Language

Highlights

Preparing for Your Salkantay Trek Adventure

Physical Training

Acclimatization in Cusco

Gear Essentials

Health and Safety Precautions

Packing Smart

Mental Preparation

Include/Exclude

Travel Itinerary

Into the Glacial Valley

Over the Salkantay Pass

Cloud Forest and Coffee Country

First Glimpse of Machu Picchu

Machu Picchu

Book This Tour

Person Info

Booking Summary

Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu 5 Days / 4 Nights

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