The journey
The Salkantay Trek is the most popular alternative to the classic Inca Trail, and many trekkers argue it's even more spectacular. Over 5 days, you'll trek through some of Peru's most dramatic landscapes: from towering glacial peaks to subtropical cloud forest, coffee plantations, and orchid-filled jungle before arriving at Machu Picchu.
The highlight is Salkantay Pass at 4,630m, where you'll walk beneath the face of Salkantay, a sacred 6,271m peak the Incas called "Savage Mountain." The pass offers jaw-dropping views of glaciers, turquoise lakes, and the Vilcabamba mountain range stretching to the horizon.
Unlike the Inca Trail, the Salkantay route doesn't require permits months in advance. But it's no less impressive. National Geographic named it one of the 25 best treks in the world. The route crosses five distinct climate zones, from alpine tundra to tropical jungle, making it one of the most ecologically diverse treks anywhere.
Trek Photos
Salkantay Peak (6,271m)
Machu Picchu
Cloud Forest DescentThe trail
Route overview: Cusco to Machu Picchu via Salkantay Pass (4,630m)
The day to day
Cusco to Soraypampa (3,900m)
+Early morning pickup from Cusco. Drive through the Sacred Valley to Mollepata (2,900m), the trailhead village. Trek steadily uphill through Andean grasslands with views of Salkantay and Humantay peaks. Camp at Soraypampa beneath the glacier. Optional afternoon hike to the stunning turquoise Humantay Lake.
Soraypampa to Chaullay (2,900m) via Salkantay Pass (4,630m)
+The big day. Pre-dawn start for the climb to Salkantay Pass, the highest point of the trek at 4,630m. Walk directly beneath the glacier face of Salkantay peak. Panoramic views from the top before a long descent through changing ecosystems into the subtropical valley of Chaullay. Total: ~22km, 8-10 hours.
Chaullay to Lucmabamba (2,100m)
+A gentler day through lush cloud forest. The landscape transforms: banana trees, coffee plantations, passion fruit, and orchids line the trail. Visit a local coffee farm and learn about the growing process. The trail follows the Santa Teresa River through increasingly tropical terrain. Camp at Lucmabamba.
Lucmabamba to Aguas Calientes (2,040m)
+Trek along the railway tracks and through jungle to reach Aguas Calientes, the gateway town to Machu Picchu. Afternoon free to explore the town, visit the hot springs, or rest before the big day. Overnight in a hotel, your first bed in days.
Machu Picchu (2,430m) & Return to Cusco
+Early bus up to Machu Picchu for sunrise. 2-hour guided tour of the citadel: temples, terraces, the Intihuatana stone, and the Room of the Three Windows. Free time to explore or hike to the Sun Gate for a different perspective. Bus back to Aguas Calientes, then train and transfer back to Cusco.
What you get
Included
- Hotel pickup and drop-off in Cusco
- All camping equipment (tents, sleeping mats)
- Three meals per day on trek (cooked by chef)
- Experienced English-speaking guide
- Porter/mule team (you carry only a daypack)
- 1 night hotel in Aguas Calientes
- Machu Picchu entrance fee
- Guided tour of Machu Picchu
- Bus from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu
- Return train Aguas Calientes to Cusco
Not Included
- International flights to/from Lima or Cusco
- Travel insurance (required)
- Sleeping bag (can be rented)
- Walking poles (can be rented)
- Personal trekking gear
- Alcoholic drinks and snacks
- Tips for guide and porters
- Personal expenses