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Machu Picchu

SALKANTAY TREK TO MACHU PICCHU – NEW EDITION


Hiking

Category

6 Days

Duration

Intermediate

Experience

Intense

Fitness

From 1 to 12

Participants


What you'll do

The Salkantay Trek is one of Peru’s most breathtaking journeys, blending stunning mountain landscapes, ancient Inca paths, and lush jungle ecosystems before culminating in the awe-inspiring Machu Picchu. Over five days, you’ll cross diverse terrains, stay in unique lodges like glass cabins and even a Hobbit House, and immerse yourself in the magic of the Andes. Each day brings a new adventure: crystal-blue lakes, high passes beneath towering glaciers, coffee plantations, waterfalls, and finally, the citadel itself. It’s a journey through time, nature, and living culture. For sure, you won’t forget this adventure easily!


Itinerary

Arrive in Cusco (we recommend you to land by 5 PM) and settle into your hotel to rest after the journey. If you get in early, stroll through the city’s cobblestone streets, admire its mix of Inca and colonial architecture, and enjoy the lively plazas. Have an early dinner and a good night’s sleep—your adventure starts tomorrow morning.
Your adventure starts bright and early (pick up time 4/4.30 AM) with a 3-hour drive from Cusco through valleys and villages. Upon arrival in Soraypampa (3,900m / 12,795 ft), you’ll be welcomed at our exclusive Glass Cabañas. After breakfast in your stunning accommodation, you’ll hike up to the beautiful Humantay Lake, a turquoise gem cradled beneath glaciers. Take your time to enjoy the crisp air and jaw-dropping views before heading back for lunch. In the afternoon, relax or join a hands-on Andean cooking class. The day ends with a hearty dinner and stargazing from your glass retreat. Distance: 5 km (3.1 mi) | Elevation Gain/Loss: +410 m (+1,345 ft) / –410 m (–1,345 ft) | Time: 2–3 hours
Fuel up with an early breakfast, today’s the big one! You’ll hike gradually upward, resting at Salkantay Pampa before continuing to Soyrococha for a glacier-side lunch. The final push takes you to the mighty Salkantay Pass, the trek’s highest point, where the panoramic views are unforgettable. After honoring Pachamama (mother earth), you’ll descend into greener valleys and end the day at the camp in Wayracmachay with the comfort of glass domes, dining, and sleeping under a sky full of stars. Distance: 20 km (12.4 mi) | Elevation Gain/Loss: +1,480 m (+4,855 ft) / –1,450 m (–4,757 ft) | Time: 7–8 hours
Wake up with tea at your door, then start a scenic descent as the Andes give way to lush high jungle. You’ll hike past waterfalls, orchids, and coffee plantations, stopping in Colpapampa for a jungle-inspired lunch. By late afternoon, you’ll reach Loreta and your whimsical Hobbit House, hidden among the trees. Hot showers, cozy beds, and the sounds of the forest make this a magical place to rest after a long day on the trail. Distance: 20 km (12.4 mi) | Elevation Gain/Loss: +140 m (+460 ft) / –1,840 m (–6,037 ft) | Time: 6–7 hours
Today combines history, culture, and nature. After breakfast, a short drive takes you to Lucmabamba, where you’ll hike a preserved section of the original Inca Trail. The climb leads to Llactapata, a fascinating site with a rare view of Machu Picchu from across the valley. After lunch at Hidroelectrica, you’ll follow railway tracks through a biodiverse canyon toward Aguas Calientes. With waterfalls, orchids, and wildlife along the way, it’s the perfect prelude to tomorrow’s visit to the legendary citadel. Distance: 22.1 km (13.7 mi) | Elevation Gain/Loss: +1,280 m (+4,199 ft) / –1,210 m (–3,970 ft) | Time: 7–8 hours
The grand finale of your trek! After an early breakfast, you’ll board one of the first buses up to Machu Picchu. Your guide will take you to the classic postcard viewpoint before leading a comprehensive tour through the citadel’s most iconic areas. Expect to learn about the Incas’ genius in architecture, spirituality, and engineering while soaking up breathtaking views. If you’ve pre-booked Huayna Picchu, you’ll enjoy an extra climb with stunning aerial perspectives. Afterward, return to Aguas Calientes for free time before catching the train to Ollantaytambo and a private transfer back to Cusco (ETA 7:30/8:00 PM), arriving in the evening with memories to last a lifetime. Distance: 10+ km (6.2+ mi) | Elevation Gain/Loss: +460 m (+1,509 ft) / –480 m (–1,574 ft) | Time: N/A (guided tours)

Important stuff

From the highest peaks to the hidden trails, we've got your back

Once you book, your trip is guaranteed to run, allowing you to book your flights with confidence.

Want to change your departure date or trip? No problem—enjoy maximum flexibility to make changes up to 60 days before departure.

Travel with peace of mind. Our insurance package covers accidents and rescue during outdoor activities, medical expenses, and luggage protection, as well as trip cancellations and 24/7 medical assistance from our insurance partner.

see more on How it works

What's included

Accident insurance
Medical and luggage insurance
Travel cancellation insurance
Hiking Guide
Tent with tables and chairs for meals
Tea served every morning in your tent
Sleeping mattress and pillow (you carry these)
Pre-tour briefing held at our office at 6:00 pm the day before your Sacred Valley tour
Entrance tickets to the Sacred Valley, Salkantay, and Machu Picchu included
Guidance by an experienced, English-speaking tour guide
Private transportation provided for each segment of the tour
Personal duffle bag provided for trek belongings (up to 7 kilos)
Porter service to carry duffle bags, accessible only at evening campsites
Round-trip bus tickets between Aguas Calientes and Machu Picchu
Return train ticket from Aguas Calientes to Cusco on the Expedition class
Safety gear including a first aid kit, oxygen tank, and satellite phone for the trek
Meals: 4 breakfasts, 4 lunches, snacks, 4 dinners and a Cook to prepare all meals
Flight
Visa (if applicable)
Transport from airport
Transport to airport
Sleeping bag
Extra food and drinks
Everything not mentioned in the “What’s included”
Tips
Optional Huayna Picchu Mountain climb available for $75 per person, must be booked in advance
Dinner on Day 1

Accomodations

3-start hotel in Cusco - Day 1


Your classic 3-star hotel in Cusco offers comfort and charm double rooms. You can enjoy friendly services, and warm décor with local touches. Perfect for resting before setting off on the adventure.

Glass Cabanas - Day 2


Situated in Soraypampa at an elevation of 3,800 meters, these cabanas provide us with stunning views of glacier peaks, offering an unmatched setting for photography. We enjoy the luxurious ambiance and have the privilege to witness spectacular sunrises and sunsets from this unique vantage point.

Dome Accommodation, Wayracmachay Campsite - Day 3


Enjoy a unique night surrounded by nature, resting in cozy domes specially prepared for you. Upon arrival at the campsite, you’ll find everything ready, including your belongings and warm water for you to freshen up. After changing into warmer clothes, you can relax during happy hour with a hot drink like chocolate or coffee, followed by a homemade dinner served in the mountain’s warmth. As night falls, don’t miss the clear sky filled with Inca constellations that light up the experience.

Hobbit House - Day 4


As we head to the Hobbit Houses, we enjoy the sights of lovely plants, animals, waterfalls, and rivers. When we arrive, our rooms feel cozy with sleeping bags, hot showers, and a jacuzzi area. We can also buy drinks. The staff make our stay special with their friendly service. We eat dinner with views of the Salkantay River and stargaze at the beautiful night sky.

Aguas Calientes Hotel - Day 5


This marks our final rest stop before visiting Machu Picchu. Our exceptional hotel is equipped with Wi-Fi, hot showers, and offers a cozy spot to relax after our day's hike. Nearby, we find local hot springs available for an entry fee of ten soles. In the evening, our local partner treats us to our last dinner, preparing us for the next day's adventure.


Guides

Raul & Alpaca Expeditions

Raul & Alpaca Expeditions

Raul is the owner and director of Alpaca Expeditions. They have tour guides 100% local. They mastered the craft of leading groups through the most beautiful places and over the highest elevations without losing any bit of information and any tip to make the hiking more enjoyable. All the guides have graduated in Tourism and passed tests to be able to guide along the treks.


Meeting point

-13.1631988-72.5452621
Machu Picchu


Frequently asked questions


Departures

All departures are guaranteed to run

May 2026
Wed
6 May
5:00 PM
Mon
11 May
8:00 PM

Confirmed

12 spots left
1240 €
(409 € deposit)
Tue
26 May
5:00 PM
Sun
31 May
8:00 PM

Confirmed

12 spots left
1240 €
(409 € deposit)
Sun
12 Jul
5:00 PM
Fri
17 Jul
8:00 PM

Confirmed

12 spots left
1240 €
(409 € deposit)
Wed
19 Aug
5:00 PM
Mon
24 Aug
8:00 PM

Confirmed

12 spots left
1240 €
(409 € deposit)

1240 €

(409 € deposit)