Salkantay Trek 5 Days to Machupicchu – Sky Camp

Very early we pick up passengers from their hotels for a 2-hour drive to Mollepata, where we stop for breakfast. We continue one more hour by car to Soraypampa, the starting point of the hike to Humantay Lake. The 2-hour ascent leads to one of Peru’s most breathtaking glacial lakes, with its distinctive turquoise-emerald waters at 4,200 m.a.s.l. After free time to explore and take photos, we descend 2 hours to the Quiswarniyoc camp for lunch. In the afternoon, a short hike to the viewpoint rewards us with stunning sunset views over the Salkantay glacier.

The most demanding day of the trek. We have an early breakfast and begin the 3-hour ascent to the Salkantay Pass at 4,630 m.a.s.l., the highest point of the route. From here the views of the Salkantay glacier are simply spectacular. We descend 2 hours to Wayracmachay for lunch, then continue 3 more hours to Chaullay, where we spend the night in our authentic Andean huts.

We begin hiking through the cloud forest, crossing the Santa Teresa River and several small streams through valleys filled with waterfalls, tropical fruits and lush vegetation. Lunch is in La Playa at 2,200 m.a.s.l., after which we continue by car to Santa Teresa at 1,700 m.a.s.l., where the climate is noticeably warmer. In the afternoon we have the option to visit the Cocalmayo hot springs – a well-deserved treat after 3 tough days of hiking.

After breakfast we hike to Lucmabamba and begin a 3-hour ascent along the original Inca Trail to the Llactapata archaeological site at 2,740 m.a.s.l. From here you get a privileged view of Machu Picchu, Huayna Picchu and the surrounding peaks. We descend 2 hours to the Hydroelectric plant at 1,870 m.a.s.l., have lunch, and continue the final 12 km on foot to the town of Aguas Calientes, where the hotel awaits for our last night.

The crowning day of the trek. We ascend to Machu Picchu by bus (not included, purchased in Aguas Calientes, ~25 min) or on foot in 1h30. A professional guide leads a 2-hour tour of Circuit 2 – Classic Route, sharing the history and mysteries of this UNESCO World Heritage Site. Free time follows to explore at your own pace. In the afternoon we take the train from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo and transfer to Cusco, arriving at approximately 22:00 hrs.

The Salkantay Trek is moderate to challenging. You don't need previous trekking experience, but good general fitness is essential as you'll be walking 12 to 20 km per day for 5 days. It is not recommended for people with significant excess weight or heart and respiratory conditions. Acclimatising in Cusco for at least 2 days beforehand makes a big difference.

The highest point is the Salkantay Pass at 4,630 m.a.s.l. on day 2. At that altitude, altitude sickness (soroche) can cause headaches, dizziness or fatigue. To minimise the risk: arrive in Cusco 2 days early, walk at a slow pace, drink coca tea, avoid alcohol and heavy meals, and consult your doctor about taking Acetazolamide as a precaution.

Conditions vary significantly depending on the section. In the high-altitude sections (days 1 and 2) mornings can drop to -10°C, particularly at camp and at the Salkantay Pass. From days 3 and 4 downward into the cloud forest the climate becomes warm and humid. Rain is possible at any time of year, so a waterproof poncho is essential.

The dry season (May to October) offers the best conditions: clear skies, firm trails and ideal weather for photographing the glaciers. The rainy season (November to April) is still doable, but trails can be muddy and daily rain is likely. We run groups year-round and adapt the itinerary when needed.

We recommend booking at least 1 month in advance as group sizes are limited. Machu Picchu entrance tickets sell out well ahead of time during peak season (June to August). If your trip is last-minute, contact us anyway – we always look for alternatives and solutions for our guests.

Yes. Contact us directly with the number of travellers, your preferred start date and proof of your purchased ticket. We will send you an adjusted quote with the discount applied and the steps to complete your booking.

Absolutely. We accept bookings from 1 person. Solo travellers join a small group of up to 12 people. We also offer a private service for couples, families or groups who prefer an exclusive guide.

Our guides carry a full first aid kit and oxygen tank at all times. If a guest is unable to continue, we safely coordinate their evacuation to the nearest vehicle access point. For this reason we strongly recommend purchasing travel insurance before departure.

Yes. The trek price includes the Machu Picchu entrance ticket for Circuit 2 – Classic Route. Huayna Picchu and Machu Picchu Mountain tickets are not included; they have separate, limited quotas and must be booked well in advance if you wish to climb them.

Yes. We include the train from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo (departure ~17:23 hrs, arrival in Cusco ~21:55 hrs) plus private transport from Ollantaytambo to your hotel in Cusco. The exact train schedule is subject to availability at the time of booking.