Embark on an unforgettable 5-day expedition through the mesmerizing Salkantay region with Cusco Waliki Tours on our Salkantay Trek 5 Days. This breathtaking trek takes you on a diverse journey through the stunning Andean landscapes, from snow-capped mountains to lush cloud forests and remote villages.
Along the way, you’ll witness the awe-inspiring Salkantay Mountain, the second-highest peak in the Cusco region, as well as encounter hidden Inca ruins and immerse yourself in the vibrant local culture. With our experienced guides and top-notch services, this transformative trek promises to be a life-changing adventure, culminating in the mesmerizing sight of Machu Picchu—the jewel of the Incas—leaving you with memories to cherish for a lifetime.
Please note that the Salkantay Trek 5 Days is considered a challenging journey, involving high altitude and long hiking days. Therefore, participants should have a good level of fitness and acclimatize in Cusco before commencing the trek. But the rewards of exploring the Salkantay route and reaching Machu Picchu are incomparable, making this tour a remarkable and enriching experience for adventurers and nature lovers alike.
Cusco Hotel Transfer
05:00 AM
The Salkantay Trek 5 Days with Cusco Waliki Tours promises an exhilarating and unforgettable adventure through the stunning landscapes of the Salkantay region. Be prepared to immerse yourself in the beauty of the Andean mountains, as you hike through awe-inspiring valleys, lush cloud forests, and picturesque villages.
The trek will challenge you, but the rewards are immense—witnessing the majestic Salkantay Mountain, the second-highest peak in Cusco, and uncovering hidden Inca ruins along the trail.
Throughout the journey, you’ll experience the rich culture and traditions of the Andean people, as our experienced guides provide fascinating insights into the history and significance of the region. As you ascend to higher altitudes, take in the diverse flora and fauna that characterize this unique ecosystem.
The trek culminates in the magnificent Machu Picchu, where you’ll be enchanted by the architectural marvels and mystical aura of this ancient Inca citadel. The Salkantay Trek 5 Days promises to be a transformative experience, forging unforgettable memories and leaving you with a profound appreciation for the natural wonders and cultural heritage of Peru.
We will collect you from your hotel and transport you to the starting point, where we will commence our hike at Challa Cancha along a broad trail. Gradually ascending the valley’s side, we will cover a distance of approximately 16 km / 9.9 miles.
Throughout the day, the scenery is breathtaking, offering a diverse array of indigenous flora and fauna. As we near day’s end, the snow-capped peaks of Humantay and Salkantay (The Savage) will majestically tower above us.
Tonight, we will rest at Soraypampa, our base campsite situated at an elevation of 4000 m / 12750 ft. Expect the night to be quite chilly, as it marks the coldest part of our journey.
The most challenging and demanding day of the trek awaits, also the most splendid. Throughout the day, the landscapes will transition drastically, offering a striking contrast from one extreme to another. We will commence our journey from the lofty Puna covered in Andean grass and ascend towards the Salkantay pass.
The terrain here is entirely rocky. As we descend to the lower warm and verdant cloud forest, be prepared to encounter a diverse array of wildlife. Our night’s campsite will be at Collpapampa, situated at an altitude of 2900 m / 9514 ft. It is advisable to apply mosquito repellent at this location.
Following breakfast, you will encounter the briefest day of the hike, leading to the village of La Playa. A 12 km descent from the Collpapampa campsite will take you along the Lluskamayo River, revealing an area abundant with lush vegetation, thriving coffee plantations, and indigenous fruit groves.
Tonight’s campsite will be at the village of La Playa (2400m / 7874 ft.), a populated area where you can savor locally grown coffee. Additionally, if you’re interested, there are nearby hot springs you can visit. Just inform your guide in advance, and they can arrange this for you. Alternatively, you can opt to spend the afternoon leisurely exploring the village of La Playa and unwinding.
We will rouse you early in the morning to commence the final stretch of the trek towards Aguas Calientes town, situated at the base of the Machu Picchu Citadel.
Today’s main highlight is the visit to the Inca site of Llactapata. We’ll follow the original Inca Trail to Llactapata, arriving by early to mid-morning, granting us breathtaking views of Machu Picchu from this vantage point.
After exploring Llactapata, we’ll descend through Santa Teresa to the Hydroelectric Station, where a satisfying lunch awaits. To revitalize and counter fatigue, you can enjoy some coca leaf tea with your meal.
Subsequently, we’ll embark on a three-hour hike alongside the railway tracks leading to Machu Picchu Pueblo. Our accommodations for the night will be in a comfortable ensuite hotel room here.
In the early morning, we will board a bus to Machu Picchu citadel, a quick 30-minute drive uphill. Our guide will assist you in passing through the security control and entering the citadel.
Once inside, you’ll be treated to a breathtaking spectacle as the clouds disperse, and the sun’s golden rays illuminate the walls of Machu Picchu, revealing its grandeur.
During the two-hour guided tour, you’ll uncover the secrets of this ancient citadel. Afterward, you’ll have free time to explore on your own. For those who have booked the Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain hike, our guide will direct you to the trailhead.
Alternatively, you can venture to the Sun Gate or Intipunku, the entrance used by those on the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu.
Following your exploration, a bus will take you back to Aguas Calientes, where lunch will be served at a local restaurant. At approximately 04:00 PM, we’ll board a train back to Ollantaytambo.
Upon arrival, our representative will greet you and provide transportation back to your hotel in Cusco. The journey through the Sacred Valley of Incas takes approximately three hours, and you can expect to return to Cusco by 09:30 PM.
An absolutely incredible adventure! The Salkantay Trek 5 Days with Cusco Waliki Tours exceeded all expectations. The breathtaking landscapes, challenging hikes, and the knowledgeable guides made it a truly memorable experience. The journey to Machu Picchu was a dream come true, and the accommodations and meals along the way were excellent.
