Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu Includes Llactapata Return by Car 5 Days

OVERVIEW

Embark on the 5-day Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu and experience one of the most scenic and thrilling routes in Peru. This trek takes you through breathtaking glacier mountains, picturesque lakes like Humantay and Salkantay, and the enchanting Amazon jungle.

 

By choosing our tour, you can enjoy exceptional services at affordable prices. Our exclusive campsites feature newly-built Mountain Sky Huts and glass igloos, accompanied by knowledgeable guides and dedicated staff. We offer comprehensive itineraries, ensuring you won’t miss any highlights. Prepare to pass by stunning lakes, reach heights of up to 4,630 meters, and trek alongside waterfalls, rivers, and hot springs.

 

The trek includes a portion of the original Inca Trail, leading to the Llactapata ruins, providing a unique perspective of Machu Picchu. The 5-Day Salkantay Trek is recognized as one of the «World’s Best Treks» by National Geographic, making it an unforgettable adventure. Choose a reputable and experienced company for your Salkantay Trek and create lifelong memories.

 

The trek highlights include the majestic Salkantay Mountain, the turquoise Humantay Lake, high altitude passes offering incredible views, the Llactapata ruins, and the grand finale of exploring Machu Picchu. Experience the beauty of the Quiswarniyoc camp and the richness of the Amazon region. Indulge in the relaxing hot springs of Santa Teresa and spend the night in Lucmabamba.

Duration

5 Day

Destination

Machu Picchu

ITINERARY

From Cusco to Quiswarniyoc Private Camp: Unveiling Soraypampa and the Enchanting Humantay Lake
  • Pick up in Cusco.

    • 5:00 am - Pick up from respective hotels or locations in Cusco.
    • Drive for two hours to the village of Mollepata.
    • Enjoy a delicious breakfast upon arrival in Mollepata.
    • Pay the 20 soles entrance fee to the local municipality (not included in the tour cost).
    • Continue by car for another hour to Soraypampa.
    • Meet the muleteers and horses in Soraypampa.

  • Begin to Humantay Lake.

    • Begin a two-hour uphill hike to Humantay Lake.
    • Spend a couple of hours at Humantay Lake exploring, taking photos, and listening to the guide's insights.
    • Start a two-hour downhill hike from Humantay Lake.
    • Arrive at the exclusive Quiswarniyoc campsite.

  • Camping Quiswarniyoc.

    • Enjoy a scrumptious lunch at the campsite.
    • Take advantage of free time to explore the surroundings or hike to the Salkantay Mirador for panoramic views.
    • Relax in the Mountain Sky Huts or glass igloos at the campsite.
    • Engage in additional short hikes, visit breathtaking mountain viewpoints, and explore cascading waterfalls at the Quiswarniyoc campsite.

IMPORTAND INFORMATION:
  • Walking Distance: 13 km, approximately 6 hours of hiking
  • Campsite Altitude: 4,100 meters above sea level
  • Difficulty: Moderate day (acclimatizing to the Salkantay Trail)
  • Weather: Warm and windy during the day, with very cold nights
  • Accommodations: Mountain Sky Huts or Crystal Domes
  • Meals Included: Breakfast, lunch, tea time, and dinner
  •  
Quiswarniyoc to Chaullay Private Camp: Journey through the Salkantay Pass
  • Morning Activities

    • Wake-up call at 5:00 am.
    • Enjoy a cup of hot coca tea and pack your belongings.
    • Have a hearty breakfast at around 5:45 am.

  • Hike to the highest point

    • Start a 3 to 4-hour uphill hike at a steady pace towards the trek's highest point at 4,630 meters.
  • photographic moment

    • Marvel at the breathtaking mountain vistas and capture photographs.
    • Learn about the revered mountain gods and participate in a traditional Andean ritual.

  • Hike downhill chaullay

    • Begin a 2-hour downhill hike.
    • Pause for a mouthwatering lunch.
    • Continue the descent for another 3 hours to reach the second camp, Chaullay, at an altitude of 2,900 meters.

  • Chaullay

    • Receive camping equipment, hot tea, and a delicious dinner at Chaullay.
    • Take an optional hot shower for 10 soles offered by locals.
    • Purchase refreshing drinks such as beer, soda, and water at Chaullay.

IMPORTAND INFORMATION:
  • Walking Distance: 22 km, approximately 9 hours of hiking
  • Campsite Altitude: 2,900 meters above sea level
  • Difficulty: Challenging day (conquering the highest point at 4,650 meters above sea level)
  • Weather: Warm and windy during the day, with cold nights
  • Accommodations: Mountain Sky Huts
  • Meals: Breakfast, lunch, tea time, and dinner
Chaullay to Santa Teresa: Journey through Playa Sahuayaco and Indulge in Hot Springs
  • Morning Activities

    • Wake up at 6:00 am. meter. in the lush jungle setting and enjoy a cup of coca tea.
    • Have a delicious breakfast.

  • Hike to Lucmabamba

    • Start the hike at 7:30 am.
    • Duration: Approximately 5 hours.
    • Traverse the pictures Santa Teresa Valley.
    • Explore plantations including coffee, bananas, avocados, coca, passion fruit, and more.

  • Lucmabamba

    • Reach Lucmabamba, the third campsite, after 5 hours of trekking and enjoy a delightful lunch.
    • After lunch, you have the option to visit the Cocalmayo hot springs in Santa Teresa.

  • Cocalmayo

    • Take a 01:30-hour car ride to the hot springs and spend a few hours relaxing in the pristine, natural waters.
    • Return to the campsite for tea time, a delicious warm dinner, and a cozy group bonfire.
    • Note: The hot springs activity is optional; you can choose to relax at the campsite if you prefer.
IMPORTAND INFORMATION:
  • Walking Distance: 16 km, approximately 5 hours of hiking
  • Campsite Altitude: 2,100 meters above sea level
  • Difficulty: Easy and relaxing day
  • Weather: Warm, hot, and tropical
  • Accommodations: Sleeping in tents
  • Meals: Breakfast, lunch, tea time, and dinner
Santa Teresa to Aguas Calientes: Llactapata Trek, Hidroelectrica, and Aguas Calientes Adventure
  • Lucmabamba

    • Early morning breakfast around 5:30 am to start the day.

  • Llactapata

    • Depart from Lucmabamba for a 3-hour uphill trek along the original Inca trail to the captivating ruins of Llactapata.
    • Take your time to explore and appreciate the awe-inspiring views of Machu Picchu, Huayna Picchu Mountain, and possibly Salkantay Mountain, if weather permits.

  • descend Hidroelectrica

    • Descend for 2 hours from Llactapata towards Hidroelectrica.
    • Enjoy a delicious lunch and some well-deserved downtime at Hidroelectrica.

  • Hike Aguas Calientes

    • Begin a 3-hour walk along the train tracks, leading you to the charming town of Aguas Calientes.

  • Arrival in Aguas Calientes

    • Upon arrival in Aguas Calientes, proceed to your hotel to freshen up and unwind.

  • Evening Activities

    • Gather around 7:00 pm for a delightful dinner at a local restaurant.
    • Return to your hotel for a good night's sleep, preparing for the next day's adventure.

IMPORTAND INFORMATION:
  • Walking Distance: 22 KM – Approximately 8 hours of hiking
  • Lodging Altitude: 2,000 meters (high) above sea level
  • Difficulty: Challenging and long day
  • Weather: Hot, very humid, and tropical
  • Accommodations: Overnight stay at a hotel
  • Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
Machu Picchu - Cusco
  • Arriving at Machu Picchu's Main Gate from Aguas Calientes

    • Choose between a 1.5-hour hike or a bus ride ($12).
    • Depart from Aguas Calientes at 4 am after breakfast.

  • Machu Picchu Guided Tour

    • Explore with a pre-arranged ticket (circuit 01 or 02).
    • Experienced guide leads a 2.5-hour tour, visiting iconic locations.

  • Leisure Time and Optional Hikes

    • Enjoy free time to explore and relax.
    • Optional hike: Huayna Picchu (2-hour round-trip, pre-booking required, $30) or Machu Picchu Mountain (3-hour round-trip, $30).

Return by bus:
Then from 11:00 to 11:30 am we have to leave the city of Machu Picchu to begin our walk for 3 more hours to the Hidroelectrica
where we will board our bus to return to the city of Cusco. The bus departure is at 14:00 p.m and arriving in Cusco between 21:30 p.m and 22:00 p.m (Approximately 6 hours of travel).

INCLUSIONS

INCLUDED
NOT INCLUDED

PRICES

Adult

$ 225 Book with $90
  • The lowest price guaranteed
  • Real local operator (cusco)
  • English, Spanish
30% off

Student

$ 205 Book with $82
  • The lowest price guaranteed
  • Real local operator (cusco)
  • English, Spanish
30% off
ASK FOR PRIVATE SERVICE

HOW TO BOOK

FOLLOW THESE SIMPLE STEPS:

  1. First select the best package for you.
  2. Fill in “Book Online” FORM, select the date, and complete the booking information. Have one person fill it out for the entire group to ensure you’re booked together.
  3. Make a payment online using any debit or credit card, Our system will charge you 40% in advance of the total number of passengers.
  4. When you complete your payment, you will receive an email from our reservations staff, who will ask you for the following information for each passengers (by email and photo).
  • Name and surname
  • Passport Nro
  • Nationality
  • Date of birth
  • Sex
  • Phone
 

Optional: You can pay the full tour amount upfront to avoid any future payment concerns. Ask for the total payment link.


The remaining BALANCE is due 48 hours before the tour begins. You can pay in CASH (soles or dollars) or CREDIT CARD (+ 4 %) at the office in Cusco or in your hotel/hostal/apartament.


Travel Insurance: We strongly recommend purchasing travel insurance to protect your investment. Obtain insurance before departing and consider working with a reputable agency for affordable coverage.


Additional Enhancements:
Huayna Picchu Mountain: $30 USD (subject to availability). Check availability at https://www.machupicchu.gob.pe/inicio
Machu Picchu Mountain: $30 USD (subject to availability). Check availability at https://www.machupicchu.gob.pe/inicio
Sleeping Bag Rental: (for the entire trek): $15 USD
Trekking Poles Rental: (one pair for the entire trek): $10 USD
Upgrade Train: Vistadome – Panoramic Train (if you choose the train return option): $35 USD.
Extra night: $20 USD (per person «based 2 people») $40 USD (Single accommodation)


Important: Book the normal tour with a deposit and pay the remaining balance and any additional upgrades you choose upon arrival in Cusco.

STUDENT DISCOUNT

Student Discount: If your student card meets Peruvian government requirements, reserve the tour with a deposit and pay the remaining balance upon arrival in Cusco. The student discount will be applied at that time.

 

All university cards must be laminated and clearly show the following information:

  1. The name of the university or institute
  2. The student’s first and last names
  3. The current date of the university card
  4. You have to be under 25 years old
 
student-discount-card

BOOK ONLINE

HAPPY CUSTOMERS FRIENDS FOREVER

We have a wide multimedia gallery where you can see photos of our groups of passengers on adventure routes such as the Salkantay Trekking of 4 and 5 Days as well. One of the most famous routes that is Machu Picchu by Bus (Acceso Amazonico) for 2 and 3 Days in addition to one day tours such as the Rainbow Mountain Full Day.

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