Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu 5D/4N

Begin your adventure with a scenic hike from Challacancha to Soraypampa, panoramic mountain views, a Humantay Lake trek, and a night in nature.

Mountain Trails & First Night at Altitude

Early Morning Departure & Mountain Drive

Your journey begins at dawn with a pickup from your hotel in Cusco. Board a tourist-class bus and watch as the city gives way to rolling highland landscapes. After 2 hours, pause in Mollepata (2,900m) for a chance to stretch, grab last-minute snacks, and soak in local village vibes.

Final Preparations in Challacancha

Continue your drive to Challacancha, where your trekking adventure officially begins. Here, guides double-check gear and ensure everyone is ready for the mountain.

Majestic Trek to Soraypampa Camp 

Lace up for a 3-hour trek that winds through the stunning Peruvian highlands. Along the way, marvel at sweeping vistas and feel the thrill of approaching the dramatic white peaks of the Andes. Arrive at Soraypampa Camp (3,920m), your home for the night, just in time for a hearty lunch surrounded by panoramic mountain scenery.

Hiking Adventure to Humantay Lake

After lunch and a short rest, set out on a side trek to the turquoise jewel of Laguna Humantay. The hike takes about 1.5 hours each way, rewarding you with breathtaking alpine views and crystal-clear glacial waters. Capture postcard-perfect photos before descending back to camp.

First Night in the Andes

Savor a delicious dinner, then unwind at the highest and coldest campsite of your trip. Tuck into your sleeping bag for an early night, falling asleep under a sky shimmering with stars.

Conquer the breathtaking Salkantay Pass, marvel at towering snow-capped peaks, then descend into lush high jungle on an epic trekking adventure.

Peaks & Passages: Salkantay Summit Trek

Early Start with Mountain Views

Fuel up with a hearty breakfast in camp, surrounded by crisp Andean air. Today’s challenge awaits!

Ascend to the Legendary Salkantay Pass

Begin a 4-hour trek to the highest point on the route: Salkantay Pass (4,650m). Flanked by the awe-inspiring snowy giants, Salkantay (6,267m) and Humantay (5,900m), every step offers jaw-dropping vistas. For those seeking a gentler ascent, horses are available for rent.

Pause, Reflect, and Capture the Vista

Stand atop the pass, maybe even among patches of snow, and soak in the panoramic mountain majesty—a highlight of the trek!

Descent into Changing Landscapes

Descend for two hours, entering a world where glaciers give way to greener slopes. Arrive at Huayracpampa for a well-deserved, energizing lunch.

Journey into the High Jungle

The path transforms as you trek for another three hours towards Challhuay or Colcapampa. Experience firsthand the transition into the rich biodiversity of the high jungle, settling at camp (2,900m) ready for a restful night.

Trek through lush jungle trails, cross rivers, admire waterfalls and fruit trees, then unwind in Santa Teresa town—hot springs optional for ultimate relaxation!

Jungle Trails and Santa Teresa Escape

Jungle Trek and Waterfall Wonders

After an energizing breakfast, set off through the upper jungle’s winding pathways. Cross the Santa Teresa River and little brooks as you travel through vibrant valleys. Along the way, savor breathtaking views of tumbling waterfalls and lush tropical trees laden with fruit—nature’s rewards for the intrepid traveler.

Lunch Among the Greenery

Pause midday at the charming La Playa (2,200m). Refuel with a delicious lunch surrounded by the soothing sights and sounds of the jungle.

Arrival in Santa Teresa Town

Continue your adventure with a scenic drive to Santa Teresa town (1,700m). Arrive at your comfortable camp and settle in, enjoying the change to a warmer climate.

Optional Hot Springs Retreat

After your well-earned rest, opt for a visit to the rejuvenating Santa Teresa hot springs (extra cost). Immerse yourself in blissful, steaming waters—a perfect way to end your day of trekking and reward your journey-worn muscles.

Trek from Santa Teresa through lush trails, enjoy a scenic box lunch, then walk or ride to Aguas Calientes to relax before Machu Picchu.

Scenic Trek Into Aguas Calientes Oasis

Morning Trek through Cloud Forest

Fuel up with a hearty mountain breakfast in Santa Teresa at 8:00 am. Embark on a picturesque, three-hour journey through lush cloud forest trails, passing vibrant flora and the distant roar of the river below.

Arriving at the Hydroelectric Station

Reach the hydroelectric station after your invigorating trek. Enjoy a nourishing box lunch amid the hum of local activity and surrounding jungle, recharging for the final stretch.

Heading to Aguas Calientes

Continue your adventure with a gentle three-hour walk along a scenic path beside the tracks, with Machu Picchu looming above. Feeling tired? Opt for a quick train ride at your own expense for a different viewpoint of the valley!

Evening in Town

Unwind in charming Aguas Calientes, surrounded by mountains and hot springs. Relax, explore, and treat yourself to a delicious dinner at a traditional local restaurant as anticipation for Machu Picchu builds.

Experience sunrise at Machu Picchu, explore its mystical ruins, and return to Cusco after an unforgettable day among the Peruvian Andes.

Sunrise Wonders and Sacred Ruins Adventure

Dawn at the Lost City

05:30 am – Catch one of the first buses to iconic Machu Picchu, watching the mystical city appear as the morning mist lifts.

Guided Exploration

Enjoy a 2-hour expert-guided tour revealing Machu Picchu’s legends, hidden temples, and breathtaking panoramic viewpoints.

Choose Your Adventure

After your tour, explore at your own pace or, if you’ve booked ahead, tackle the exhilarating Huayna Picchu Peak hike for birds-eye vistas.

Return Journey

Take the bus back down to Aguas Calientes, then board the scenic train winding through the Andes to Ollantaytambo. Continue by bus to Cusco, arriving at Plaza San Francisco around 6:30 pm, where your magical day in the Sacred Valley ends.