Luxury Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu 5 Days

Physical Level:
Moderate

Max group size:
8 Persons

Distances:
15 km / 9.32 miles

Max. Altitude:
15,157 feet

The Luxury Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu offers an unforgettable 5-day adventure, blending stunning natural beauty with exceptional comfort. This trek is perfect for travelers who want to explore the incredible Salkantay route while enjoying luxury at every step. From towering snow-capped mountains to lush tropical forests, the journey takes you deep into the Peruvian Andes and leads you to the breathtaking Machu Picchu.

Over five days, you’ll cross a variety of landscapes, including high-altitude plains, rugged mountain passes, and beautiful cloud forests. Each evening, you’ll relax in luxurious accommodations, such as well-equipped campsites, designed to provide maximum comfort. Expert chefs prepare gourmet meals daily to keep you refreshed and energized for the next adventure.

A dedicated team supports your trek, including experienced guides, chefs, and porters. The guides share fascinating insights into the history, culture, and wildlife of the region, enriching your journey. The team ensures your safety, comfort, and enjoyment, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the incredible scenery and experiences along the trail.

On the final day, you’ll reach Machu Picchu, one of the world’s most iconic archaeological sites. This ancient Inca city, perched high in the mountains, provides the perfect ending to your luxury trek.

The Luxury Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu is ideal for those who seek both adventure and comfort. With Qoricancha Expeditions, you can enjoy a smooth, safe, and unforgettable journey. This trek combines culture, history, and adventure like no other. Book your dream trek today and experience the ultimate luxury adventure on the Salkantay Trail!

Tour Summary

Why Salkantay trek to Machu Picchu?

Scenic Diversity: The Salkantay Trek offers a wider variety of landscapes and terrain. You’ll trek through lush cloud forests, high-altitude passes, subtropical valleys, and even enjoy views of the stunning Salkantay Mountain itself, which is often referred to as the “Savage Mountain.”

Fewer Crowds: While the Inca Trail can get quite crowded, especially during the high season, the Salkantay Trek tends to be less crowded, providing a more serene and less commercialized trekking experience.

Flexibility: The Salkantay Trek offers more flexibility in terms of tour operators and itineraries. You can choose from a variety of tour packages, including luxury options, and tailor your trek to your preferences.

Cultural Immersion: While both treks offer cultural experiences, the Salkantay Trek may provide more opportunities to interact with local communities and experience their way of life, as it passes through more remote villages.

Availability: we have daily departure, we only verify the Machu Picchu entry fee at the booking time.

Weather: Peru is a year-round destination for travellers, but the dry/winter season – between May and October – is generally the most popular time to do visit the Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu. This is when the nights are cooler and there are often wildflowers in bloom along the Trail, its usually full sunny days which allows you to enjoy much the Salkantay Trek, November and december are the beggining of wet season and from January to March are the the middle o rainy season, it usually rains a lot, make sure to bring Good rain gear.

Huayna Picchu ticket. There is a popular mountain at the citadel, the famous Young mountain = Huayna Picchu mountain, hiking Inca Trail we can do only the 10am time, for that its important you can let us know in advance, so we can guaranteed the ticket, only 50 spots are available. It cost $75 each tciket. This is Optional.

Itinerary

Your trekking adventure begins with an early pick-up from your hotel at 4:00 AM. From there, it’s approximately a 3-hour drive to the starting point at Soraypampa, which sits at an elevation of 3,450 meters. Upon arrival, our talented chef will prepare a delicious breakfast to fuel you for the day ahead.

After enjoying your breakfast, it’s time to prepare for the hike. Make sure you have sunscreen, a sun hat, and sufficient water. The first destination on your trek will be Humantay Lagoon, which is about a 2-hour uphill walk. The lagoon is situated at an elevation of 4,300 meters and is surrounded by stunning glacier peaks. During the winter season, you can expect breathtaking views of the area.

Our guide will provide you with informative insights about the region. Once you’ve taken in the beauty of Humantay Lagoon, you’ll hike back for about 1 hour to the lunch spot, where our chef will be waiting to serve you a delicious meal.

After lunch and a short break, you’ll continue along the Salkantay path for approximately 2.5 hours until you reach Salkantay Pampa, where you’ll spend the night at an elevation of 4200 meters. this location offers extraordinary views of the Salkantay glacier. Our dedicated team will set up your luxurious tents and comfortable beds.

You’ll have a pleasant happy hour before indulging in a delicious dinner at 7:00 PM. Given the altitude, it’s important to pack warm clothing to ensure a comfortable night’s rest.

Acomodation: Luxury Camping with *****
Meals: B-L-D
Ticket: all included.
Walking distance: 12km

Your day begins with a wake-up call at 5:00 AM, greeted by a comforting cup of coca tea delivered right to your tent. After enjoying this early start, you’ll be treated to a delicious breakfast to fuel your day. As you prepare for your hike, be sure to have water containers and snacks at the ready.

The highlight of the day is the ascent to the Salkantay Pass (4600 meters), which will take approximately 2.5 hours. This is the highest point of your hike and offers some of the most stunning glacier and mountain views in the region. Be sure to capture these breathtaking moments with your camera.

Following your time at the pass, you’ll continue your journey, which will now lead you downhill. The descent into the cloud forest area will take around 2 hours. Upon reaching Huayracmachay, our chef will be there to greet you with a well-deserved lunch, along with refreshing beverages.

After lunch, your trek will continue for another 3 hours until you reach your second campsite, Colpapampa (2450 meters). This small jungle community is located at a lower elevation, marking your transition into the cloud forest. The weather here is humid and warm, and you may encounter some mosquitoes.

In the evening, you can look forward to a hearty dinner and a restful night’s sleep.

Acomodation: Camping in Luxury tent & bed
Meals: B-L-D
Ticket: all included.
Walking distance: 15km

Your day begins with an early wake-up call, allowing you ample time to prepare for the day’s activities. After enjoying a satisfying breakfast and ensuring you have sufficient water and snacks, your expedition continues.

You’ll embark on approximately 4 hours of walking, following a picturesque valley. Most of this section of the trail coincides with the car road, allowing you to soak in the scenic surroundings. Along the way, you’ll have the opportunity to observe orchids, spot various bird species, and pass by local farms where fruits and, notably, some of Cusco’s finest coffee is cultivated.

After this 4-hour walk, you’ll reunite with our chef, who will be ready to serve you a delicious lunch. Following lunch, you’ll have the chance to visit a local coffee farm. Here, a local family will guide you through the coffee production process, demonstrating how they create some of the finest coffee in Cusco. If you wish to support them, you can purchase a small pack of their coffee, which typically costs between 30 to 50 soles.

In the afternoon, a visit to the renowned Cocalmayo hot springs awaits. You’ll take a minivan from your campsite, a journey of approximately 30 minutes, to reach these relaxing thermal baths. After soaking in the soothing waters, you’ll return to your campsite for dinner and a good night’s sleep.

Acomodation: Camping in Luxury tent & bed
Meals: B-L-D
Ticket: all included.
Walking distance: 13km

Today marks an important day as you embark on a portion of the famous Inca Trails that connect Machu Picchu to the jungle. The day’s trek involves a gradual uphill climb lasting approximately 3.5 hours, leading you to the Llactapata Inca site. This site is situated in front of Machu Picchu and offers breathtaking and unique views that are truly spectacular.

Following your visit to Llactapata, you’ll continue your trek, descending for about 2 hours until you reach the hydroelectric station. Here, our chef will be waiting to prepare your lunch. This meal marks the last lunch you’ll share with your trekking team.

After bidding farewell to the chef and porters, you’ll board the afternoon train to Aguas Calientes. This train journey takes about 1 hour, and you’ll arrive in the picturesque village of Aguas Calientes, situated at an elevation of 2000 meters above sea level. Upon arrival, your guide will escort you to the exquisite Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo Hotel, where you’ll have the opportunity to relax and enjoy the luxurious surroundings.

Acomodation: Inkaterra Pueblo or Sumac *****
Meals: B-L-D
Ticket: all included.
Walking distance: 12km

Today is the most significant day of your journey. After an early breakfast at your hotel, your guide will pick you up and accompany you to the bus station. You’ll board one of the early buses to Machu Picchu. Once you arrive at the Machu Picchu citadel, your guide will take you to the upper part of the site, offering you a chance to witness the sunrise, provided that the season allows for it. This moment will provide you with the most breathtaking views and photo opportunities of Machu Picchu.

You will have ample time to explore and savor the magic and beauty that this new wonder of the world has to offer. Afterward, your guide will lead you on a comprehensive walking tour, taking you to the most important sectors and palaces within Machu Picchu. This guided tour will last approximately 2.5 hours.

Following the guided tour, if you have a Huayna Picchu ticket, you will have the opportunity to hike this famous mountain. The hike typically takes about 2 hours to complete, including the ascent and descent. Please note that there are a limited number of tickets available for Huayna Picchu, so it’s essential to book in advance. The ticket price for Huayna Picchu is $75.

If you do not have a Huayna Picchu ticket, you can bid farewell to the Lost City of the Incas and head back to Aguas Calientes town. you will have lunch at Santuary lodge, Following lunch, you’ll take the afternoon Vistadome Observatory Train, which departs at 4:20 pm. This train will transport you to Ollantaytambo station, where our driver will be waiting to transfer you back to your hotel in Cusco. The approximate arrival time in Cusco is around 8:30 pm.

Acomodation: book on your own.
Meals: B-L
Ticket: included.

Thank you for hikking with Qoricancha Expeditions!

Travel Info

What ou need to take for this tour:

Original Passport.
Small day pack.
Insect repellent (Machu picchu is located at cloud forest area)
Sun hat. sun screen.
Rain gear just in case for any month of the year.
Camara.
Wáter
Trekking cloth
Hiking shoes.

Inclusions

Included

Briefing the night before of the tour at 6pm
Experienced english speaking tour guide
Full porter included
INKATERRA PUEBLO HOTEL MACHU PICCHU
Gourmet peruvian disheS prepare by our chef.
All tickets for the Salkantay Trek and Machu picchu
Massage therapist availble for everyday at the campsite
Hot Shower
VISTADOME OBSERVATORY TRAIN
All Camping equipment, tents, bed, trekking poles.

Excluded

Hotel before and after the tour.
Huayna Picchu, it cost $75 each,. but is optional
Gratitudes: for the crew
Travel Insurance- (optional but is advisable)

Price

Adults, Group service

$ 1895.00 USD

per person (Min. 2 hikers)

FAQs

Expertise and Excellence: Qoricancha Expeditions is renowned for its commitment to excellence in guiding and customer service. With their experienced team, you’re in the hands of professionals who will ensure a memorable and hassle-free experience.

Cultural Immersion: Immerse yourself in the rich culture and history of Peru. Qoricancha Expeditions provides expert guides who will share their deep knowledge of the region, offering insights into the ancient Inca civilization and local traditions.

Small Group Advantage: Smaller tour group sizes allow for a more intimate experience, increased interaction with guides, and the opportunity to form connections with fellow travelers.

Memories for a Lifetime: Traveling with Qoricancha Expeditions guarantees not only an unforgettable adventure but also memories that will stay with you forever. It’s a journey that promises to leave you with a profound appreciation for the wonders of Peru.

Private

From: $ 1895.00 per person

Book with Whatsapp

Contact the travel consultant

What our customers say on Tripadvisor

Travel with a local tour operator, Qoricancha Expeditions, they are just amazing group!

After a friend’s recommendation, we decided to book with Qoricancha Expeditions, believing they would be the perfect tour company to introduce us to the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu. They exceeded our expectations in every aspect. If you are looking for a tour or guide for the Sacred Valley area, look no further. You’ve come to the right place!

July benhs L September 15, 2024

Great experience in Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu!

Our family of four had an incredible two-day tour of the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu. Victor was an outstanding guide, extremely positive, professional, and knowledgeable about the relevant history of the sights we visited. Although Machu Picchu was as spectacular as one would expect, our favorite experiences occurred on the first day.

terry john a April 8, 2024

A Wonderful hike to Machu Picchu 10/10

My friends and I booked the 2 day Inca Trail hike with Qoricancha Expeditions, it was a wonderful time and experience.

The hike: A solid day of hiking in our group of 7 to reach Machu Picchu. Visiting interesting inca sites along the way. The hike was challenging but manageable as you navigated up and down the mountains and through the jungle.

Peter Dean C September 3, 2023

Great experience, go with Qoricancha tours.

After we contacted many tour agencies in Cusco we have decided to go with Qoricancha Expeditions, We did the Classic 4 days Inca Trail Trek to Machu Picchu and it was incredible! Our guide, Simon impressed us with his in-depth knowledge of the region and his passion for helping others experience it. He had just the right blend of being informative without being overly talkative.

Robert Cook August 23, 2023

Luxury Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu 5 Days

Tour Summary

Itinerary