Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu 5 Days

On the second day of the Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu, you will wake up to the serene beauty of the Andes with a warm mug of tea or coffee served right in your tent. It will be a day filled with magnificent sights and memorable experiences.

Apacheta Pass.

After enjoying your delicious breakfast, proper to energize you for a day of adventure and exploration on the Salkantay Trail. Our journey will begin with an invigorating climb for about 1 hour, taking us to the trek’s highest point, the Apacheta Pass 4,650 m (15,367 ft). Here, we will pause to capture this achievement with photos, soaking in the views of the massive snow-capped mountains of Huayanay, Humantay, and Salkantay. The panoramic vistas of the surrounding lakes and rivers from this vantage point are truly breathtaking.

Salkantay Lake.

Adding to this day’s highlights, we will take a 30-minute side trip to the exquisite Salkantay Lake. Its turquoise waters offer a peaceful and reflective moment among the massive mountains.

Rayanniyoc & Colpapampa Campsite.

Next, we will continue our descent to Rayanniyoc, where we will partake in a delicious lunch. As we descend, the lower we go the landscape will dramatically change. After lunch, we will have a couple of hours trekking to our final stop for the day: Colpapampa. Nestled in the heart of the Andes, our camp will await with the familiar comfort of hot drinks and appetizers.

Key Statistics of Day 2:

• Distance covered: Approximately 22 kilometers (13.7 miles)
• Highest altitude: 4,650 meters (15,367 feet) at Apacheta Pass
• Lowest altitude: 2,850 meters (9,350 feet) at Colpapampa campsite
• Level of difficulty: Challenging, with steep ascents and descents

This day on the Salkantay Trek is a blend of physical challenge and natural beauty, offering a true sense of accomplishment as we inch closer to the mystical Incan Citadel of Machu Picchu.

On the third day of the Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu, we’ll hike through the heart of the trail, passing the midway point. Our destination for the day: the picturesque Lucmabamba. Today’s route promises an array of natural wonders. You will be immersed in an ever-changing landscape, teeming with birds and lush fruit plantations. The flowering orchards, the fields of cacao and the coffee trees will provide a delightful sensory experience.

Lucmabamba & Cocalmayo Hot Springs.

You will delve into the world of Peruvian coffee with a visit to a nearby coffee plantation. This side-activity is informative and interactive. We will start by exploring the fields, then learning about the various types of coffee beans, the process of picking, roasting, and grinding the beans. This unique experience is complemented by the sight of fields dotted with tomatoes and avocados.

In the afternoon, we’ll take a short ride to Cocalmayo hot springs. Once there, you’ll be able to indulge in a rejuvenating bath, surrounded by the tranquil beauty of nature. This is a perfect way to unwind and recharge.

After our time at the hot springs, we’ll return to camp to enjoy a dinner prepared by our private chef.

Key Statistics of Day 3:

• Distance covered: Approximately 15 kilometers (9.3 miles)
• Highest altitude: 2,100 meters (6,890 feet) at Lucmabamba
• Lowest altitude: 1,550 meters (5,085 feet) at Cocalmayo hot springs
• Level of difficulty: Moderate, with a focus on cultural and natural exploration

Day three of the Salkantay Trek is a blend of cultural immersion, natural beauty, and relaxation, offering a deeper connection with the land as we journey towards Machu Picchu.

Puncuyoc Pass & Ruins of Llactapata.

On the fourth day of our Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu, we’ll continue our journey thru history and natural beauty. To start, we will trek along a remote section of the ancient Inca Trail. This segment will take us about 3 hours to the Puncuyoc Pass, surrounded by the spectacular scenes of fruit plantations and valleys.

Our destination for the morning are the fascinating Inca Ruins in Llactapata. From across the valley you’ll be treated to a unique view of the Citadel of Machu Picchu, the Aobamba Canyon and neighboring mountains: Machu Picchu, and Huayna Picchu. A perspective only few travelers get to see.

Later, we will embark on a 2 hour descent to the hydroelectric plant, a source of renewable energy for Cusco. Here we will partake in another hearty and delicious meal.

Final push: to Aguas Calientes.

The final stretch of our day involves a trek to Aguas Calientes thru the National Park of Machu Picchu. This path takes us through a lush sub-tropical jungle.

Upon arrival to Aguas Calientes, it’ll be time to check into your hotel, for a well-deserved rest. Later we will gather for dinner at a local restaurant, reflecting on the day’s adventures and looking forward to the highlight of the tour – visiting Machu Picchu.

Key Statistics of Day 4:

• Distance covered: Approximately 16 kilometers (10 miles)
• Highest altitude: 3,600 meters (11,810 feet) at Puncuyoc Pass
• Lowest altitude: 2,040 meters (6,690 feet) in Aguas Calientes
• Level of difficulty: Challenging, with significant uphill and downhill trekking

The fourth day of the Salkantay Trek is a blend of historical exploration and natural splendor, setting the stage for the grand finale of our journey to the iconic Machu Picchu.

Tour in Machu Picchu.

The fifth day of the Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu is for many the most important day of the tour. Today is what you’ve been eagerly anticipating. Finally you will visit the majestic Incan Citadel of Machu Picchu!

After an early breakfast at your hotel in Aguas Calientes, we will catch one of the first buses up to Machu Picchu. Arriving early allows us to witness the breathtaking sunrise over this wonder, not to be missed.

Your experienced guide will lead a 2 hour tour of the Machu Picchu Citadel. Explore the most important parts of this iconic site, learning about its division into three sectors: agricultural, residential, and religious. This comprehensive tour offers deep insights into the rich history and architecture of this ancient Inca city.

After soaking in the magnificence of Machu Picchu, take the bus back down to Aguas Calientes. You will have time for lunch (not included), along with opportunities for shopping, sightseeing, or visiting the museum or hot springs, depending on your train departure time.

Return to Cusco.

We will return on the Expedition train back to Ollantaytambo, departing at either 2:55 pm or 3:20 pm. This train ride follows the spectacular Urubamba River, with the canyon narrowing and the river showcasing beautiful sections of whitewater. Be sure to look out for the ruins of Wiñay Wayna, perched high on the steep canyon wall.

Upon arriving in Ollantaytambo, our private vehicle will be waiting to take you back to your hotel in Cusco. You can expect to arrive at your hotel by 7:00 pm, bringing an end to this unforgettable adventure.

Key Statistics of Day 5:

• Distance covered: Minimal walking in Machu Picchu
• Highest altitude: 2,430 meters (7,972 feet) at Machu Picchu
• Lowest altitude: 2,040 meters (6,690 feet) in Aguas Calientes
• Level of difficulty: Easy, focused on exploration and sightseeing

Day five is a rewarding culmination of the Salkantay Trek, filled with awe and wonder as you explore one of the world’s most extraordinary archaeological sites.