Tripadvisor
The Salkantay Trek 5 days is one of the most stunning and adventurous routes to Machu Picchu, offering a longer, more immersive alternative to the Inca Trail. This trek takes you through diverse Andean landscapes, from snow-capped mountains to lush cloud forests, and culminates with a visit to the ancient citadel of Machu Picchu. With more time to explore, the 5-day Salkantay Trek allows for a deeper connection with the natural beauty and culture of Peru, making it an unforgettable journey for adventurous travelers.
Why Choose the Salkantay Trek 5 Days?
A Longer and More Immersive Experience
The Salkantay Trek 5 Days offers a more extended version of the classic trek, providing trekkers with additional time to fully appreciate the stunning landscapes and rich cultural history of the Andes. Over the course of five days, you’ll pass through remote villages, encounter local wildlife, and explore pristine natural environments. This trek allows you to experience a wide range of ecosystems, from high-altitude passes to subtropical jungles, providing a comprehensive journey through the Peruvian Andes.
Incredible Scenic Diversity
Named after the towering Salkantay Mountain (6,271 meters / 20,574 feet), the Salkantay Trek is known for its breathtaking scenery. The route takes you through snow-covered mountain passes, lush cloud forests, and verdant valleys, with views of glaciers, waterfalls, and tropical vegetation. The highlight of the trek is crossing the Salkantay Pass, which offers stunning panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and glaciers.
Throughout the five days, you’ll encounter a wide variety of landscapes, from the high-altitude Andean peaks to the lower-altitude cloud forests, where the warmer climate and diverse flora and fauna create a completely different atmosphere.
No Permits Required
Unlike the Inca Trail, the Salkantay Trek does not require a special permit, making it an excellent option for travelers who may not have secured a spot on the Inca Trail or who prefer more flexibility in their travel plans. This also makes the Salkantay Trek a great choice for last-minute adventurers looking for a stunning and challenging route to Machu Picchu.
Highlights of the Salkantay Trek 5 Days
Day 1: Cusco to Soraypampa
The adventure begins with an early morning departure from Cusco to Mollepata, a small Andean village where the trek officially starts. After a short drive to Challacancha, you’ll begin your hike through beautiful valleys and farmlands, with views of the majestic Salkantay Mountain in the distance. Your first campsite is at Soraypampa, located at an altitude of 3,900 meters (12,795 feet).
- Optional: On the afternoon of Day 1, you can take a short hike to Humantay Lake, a stunning turquoise glacial lake surrounded by snow-capped mountains.
- Distance: 12 kilometers (7.5 miles)
- Camp: Soraypampa, at 3,900 meters (12,795 feet)
Day 2: Soraypampa to Salkantay Pass and Descend to Chaullay
Day 2 is the most challenging but rewarding part of the trek, as you’ll cross the Salkantay Pass, the highest point of the trek at 4,650 meters (15,255 feet). The steep climb to the pass is tough, but the views of Salkantay Mountain and its surrounding glaciers are absolutely breathtaking. After reaching the pass, you’ll begin your descent into the warmer, greener cloud forest, where you’ll camp in Chaullay.
- Distance: 22 kilometers (13.7 miles)
- Camp: Chaullay, at 2,900 meters (9,514 feet)
Day 3: Chaullay to Lucmabamba
On Day 3, you’ll continue descending into the lush tropical cloud forest, passing through coffee plantations, fruit orchards, and waterfalls. This day offers plenty of opportunities to interact with local farmers and learn about their traditional way of life. You’ll also have a chance to try locally grown coffee, one of the region’s specialties.
- Distance: 15 kilometers (9.3 miles)
- Camp: Lucmabamba, at 2,000 meters (6,562 feet)
Day 4: Lucmabamba to Llactapata and Aguas Calientes
Day 4 offers a unique opportunity to hike along a section of an ancient Inca trail that leads to the archaeological site of Llactapata, a lesser-known ruin that offers a stunning view of Machu Picchu from a distance. After exploring Llactapata, you’ll continue hiking down to the hydroelectric station, where you’ll catch a train to Aguas Calientes, the town at the base of Machu Picchu.
- Distance: 14 kilometers (8.7 miles)
- Accommodation: Hotel in Aguas Calientes
Day 5: Visit Machu Picchu
The final day of the trek is dedicated to exploring the majestic ruins of Machu Picchu. You’ll wake up early to catch the bus from Aguas Calientes to the entrance of Machu Picchu, where your guide will lead you on a comprehensive tour of the ancient citadel. You’ll visit key sites such as the Temple of the Sun, the Sacred Plaza, and the Intihuatana Stone, learning about the history, architecture, and cultural significance of this world wonder.
After the guided tour, you’ll have some free time to explore the ruins on your own or hike up to Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain (additional permits required) for a panoramic view of the site.
In the afternoon, you’ll take the train back to Cusco, concluding your Salkantay Trek adventure.
Who is the Salkantay Trek 5 Days For?
The Salkantay Trek 5 Days is ideal for adventurous travelers who are in good physical condition and looking for a more extended and immersive experience in the Andes. The trek is more physically demanding than the Inca Trail, with long days of hiking and high altitudes, but it rewards trekkers with stunning scenery and fewer crowds.
This trek is perfect for nature lovers, experienced hikers, and those seeking a less-traveled route to Machu Picchu. If you’re looking for a longer adventure that combines breathtaking landscapes with cultural exploration, the Salkantay Trek 5 Days is an excellent choice.
Sustainability and Responsible Trekking
As with all trekking routes in Peru, it’s important to choose a responsible tour operator that prioritizes environmental conservation and supports local communities. The Salkantay Trek passes through fragile ecosystems, and protecting the natural environment is essential to preserving the beauty of the Andes for future generations.
Booking with a responsible tour operator like Guiding Cusco Expeditions ensures that your trek follows sustainable practices. These operators provide fair wages to local guides and porters, minimize environmental impact, and contribute to the local economy.
What’s Included in the Salkantay Trek 5 Days?
The Salkantay Trek 5 Days package typically includes:
- Permits and entrance fees: Entrance to Machu Picchu and other necessary permits.
- Professional guides: Experienced, English-speaking guides who provide insights into the history, culture, and nature of the Andes.
- Meals: Fresh, locally sourced meals prepared by professional cooks during the trek.
- Camping equipment: Tents, sleeping mats, and other necessary camping gear.
- Porters and mules: Porters and mules to carry your camping gear and equipment, so you can hike with a lighter load.
- Transportation: Transfers from Cusco to the starting point, and train tickets from Aguas Calientes to Cusco.
Alternatives to the Salkantay Trek 5 Days
If you’re looking for a shorter trekking experience, the Salkantay Trek 4 Days is a popular alternative that still offers the same stunning scenery but with one less day of hiking. For those interested in a more culturally immersive trek, the Lares Trek takes hikers through traditional Andean villages, offering unique opportunities to interact with local communities.
For those who want to explore ancient Inca ruins, the Classic Inca Trail is another excellent option, offering a journey through historical sites and arriving at Machu Picchu via the Sun Gate.
Conclusion: Why the Salkantay Trek 5 Days is a Must-Do
The Salkantay Trek 5 Days offers an unparalleled opportunity to explore the diverse landscapes of the Andes and visit Machu Picchu in a longer and more immersive adventure. With breathtaking views of Salkantay Mountain, lush cloud forests, and remote Inca ruins, this trek provides a rewarding and unforgettable experience for any adventurous traveler.
For more information or to book your trek, visit Guiding Cusco Expeditions, or contact us directly via WhatsApp.
