5 Day Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu from Cusco

Overview

Day by day itinerary

1. 1Sacred Andes Mountains and the Humantay Lake⌄

   The tour begins at 4:30 a.m. as we depart Cusco, heading deep into the Andes. As the sun rises, the mountains come alive with golden light. Our first stop is Mollepata (2,900 m), where we’ll enjoy breakfast and get ready for the trek. The trail winds its way up to Soraypampa (3,900 m), our first campsite, surrounded by towering peaks. But the real highlight of the day awaits higher up: Humantay Lagoon (4,200 m). This breathtaking glacial lake, with its crystal-clear turquoise waters reflecting the snowy peaks above, is a sacred site for the Incas. The short but steep hike is worth every step as we take in this magical place. As evening falls, we return to camp just in time for a spectacular sunset over the Andes. After a delicious dinner, we rest beneath a sky filled with countless stars.

   Meals: Lunch · Dinner

   Overnight: Overnight at Soraypampa Campsite

2. 2The Challenge – Crossing the Salkantay Pass⌄

   This is the most challenging day of the trek. We start early with a cup of coca tea to help with acclimatization, then set off toward the Salkantay Pass (4,600 m). The climb is demanding, but every step brings us closer to the sky. As we reach the summit, the massive, glacier-covered Salkantay mountain towers before us in all its glory. The air is crisp, the wind howls through the rocks, and the views stretch endlessly in every direction. This is a place of raw power, where the Incas once walked and where nature reigns supreme. We then descend into a completely different landscape, lush valleys, waterfalls, and cloud forests until we reach Chaullay (2,900 m), where we set up camp for the night. This way we will end our sencond day of the trekking.

   Meals: Breakfast · Lunch · Dinner

   Overnight: Overnight at Chaullay Campsite

3. 3Into the Jungle – Coffee, Waterfalls, and Hot Springs⌄

   As we leave the high mountains behind, the air grows warmer, and the scent of the jungle fills the trail. We trek through La Playa (2,000 m), a tropical paradise where locals grow coffee, bananas, and avocados. Here, we’ll have the chance to taste freshly brewed Peruvian coffee and learn about the traditional harvesting process. After lunch, we take a short drive to Santa Teresa (1,550 m), home to the famous Cocalmayo hot springs. Imagine sinking into warm, natural pools, surrounded by jungle-covered mountains, as the river flows nearby. This is the perfect way to relax before the final stretch of our journey.

   Meals: Breakfast · Lunch · Dinner

   Overnight: Overnight at Santa Teresa Campsite

4. 4Ziplining & Trekking to Aguas Calientes⌄

   For thrill-seekers, the morning kicks off with an epic zipline adventure, flying over 70 km/h (45 mph) across deep valleys, suspension bridges, and rocky cliffs. Afterward, we begin our hike along the same jungle route the Incas once used, following the railway toward Aguas Calientes (2,040 m). Along the way, we pass hidden waterfalls, lush farms, and if we’re lucky spot some curious wildlife. We arrive at Aguas Calientes by late afternoon, where a cozy hotel and a well-earned dinner await.

   Meals: Breakfast · Lunch · Dinner

   Overnight: Aguas Calientes Hostel night (shared rooms solo travelers and private room for couples)

5. 5Machu Picchu – Sunrise Over the Lost City⌄

   We wake before dawn for the final ascent to Machu Picchu. As we climb through the misty jungle, anticipation builds. And then, just as the sun rises, we arrive at the Sun Gate—and there it is: Machu Picchu, emerging from the clouds, bathed in golden light. With our expert guide, we’ll explore the most important temples and terraces of this legendary city. After the guided tour, you’ll have free time to wander on your own. For those craving more adventure, an optional climb to Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain (advance booking required) offers even more breathtaking views. Then you need to go back to hidroelectrica to catch the bus back to Cusco. You will arrive to the city between 9:00 pm to 10:00 pm or you can opt for the panoramic train ride (optional) for a more comfortable journey.

   Meals: Breakfast