Discover the Salkantay Trek: Soraypampa, Colpapampa, La Playa, and Machu Picchu. A breathtaking journey through nature, culture, and history.
Location: Peru
Duration: 5 Days
Type: Peru Trek & Tours (Inca Trail)
Destinations: Cusco, Soraypampa, Colpapampa (La Playa), Santa Teresa (Hot Spring of Cocalmayo), Machu Picchu.
Description: The 5/4 Salkantay Hike is rated moderate to difficult due to the amount of time walking, cold temperatures and the altitudes hiked through, therefore it is advisable to rest and acclimate in Cusco for 48 hours before Day 1 of your Salkantay Hike. Rest, breathe, stretch and drink your hotel’s complimentary coca tea before the hike.
This hike is for more adventurous trekkers able to enjoy the altitude, weather, and distance of the Salkantay Hike. Salkantay Mountain is the Cusco Region’s second-largest (6280m).
Night 1 is spent near the mountain’s snow-capped peak. Day 2 is the most difficult day of hiking but the views rewarded at the top are worth it.
It’s all downhill after the 4600m pass to a warmer, more humid climate on the far side of the mountain. 45-minute train from the Hydro-Electric damn to Aguas Calientes to spend Night 4 in a hotel. Day 5 take the bus up to Machu Picchu with your guide for a private tour before exploring the park on your own.
| Day 1: Cusco, Soraypampa. |
| Day 2: Soraypampa, Colpapampa. |
| Day 3: Colpapampa, La Playa. |
| Day 4: Playa Santa Teresa, Hot Spring of Cocalmayo. |
| Day 5: Machu Picchu. |
ITINERARY DETAILSDay 1: Cusco, Soraypampa (Salkantay Trek)5 AM Cusco hotel pickup and arrive in Mollepata, the starting point of the hike at 9 AM. Hike for about 4 hours through beautiful flora and fauna before arriving at the first stop, Silcakancha. Rest and enjoy lunch with a great view of the landscapes. After lunch hike for 3 hours while learning of the area with your guide. This night camp at Soraypampa where the chef will prepare an excellent meal of local, typical dishes. Day 2: Soraypampa, ColpapampaAfter waking early and a solid breakfast of food that kept the Incas strong hike from 3400m to 4650m through the mountain pass to camp at Colpa Bamba. Oxygen will be available in case of emergencies. Day 3: Colpapampa, La Playa6:45 a.m. breakfast and continue the hike to Lluscamay. Cross the Inca’s bridges to the charming remote village of La Playa. Stop for dinner and camp here for the night. Day 4: Playa Santa Teresa, Aguas CalientesAfter breakfast take rural transport (truck) to reach the village of Santa Teresa. From here it is a one-hour hike on the Urubamba River to the hydro-electric damn. Have lunch, relax and wait for the train to arrive to take you to Aguas Calientes. After the 30-minute train, ride arrives in Aguas Calientes and checks in to your hotel or hostel. Day 5: Machu PicchuAfter breakfast begin the last 90-minute hike to the entrance of Machu Picchu (or take the bus). Enjoy a 2 hour guided tour through all the different areas out the park. Afterward, there will be time to explore Machu Picchu on your own. Ask about climbing Huayna Picchu too. In the afternoon take the bus down to get the train back to Cusco. |
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FAQs – Your Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu Questions Answered
| When is the best time to do the Salkantay Trek? May to October: dry season, clear skies, and safe mountain pass conditions. What makes this route different from others to Machu Picchu? It crosses the Salkantay Pass at 4,650 m with high mountain views, jungle, and rural villages. What type of travelers usually book this tour? Trekking and nature lovers seeking a less crowded alternative to the classic Inca Trail. Do I need prior hiking experience? No, but good physical condition is recommended due to altitude and duration. What kind of accommodation is included? Campsites in Soraypampa, Colpapampa, and La Playa; hotel or hostel in Aguas Calientes. Are train tickets and Machu Picchu entry included? Yes—includes train from hydroelectric station to Aguas Calientes, Machu Picchu entry, and return to Cusco. What altitude is reached during the trek? The highest point is Salkantay Pass at 4,650 m (15,255 ft). Can I climb Huayna Picchu? Yes—if booked in advance and you arrive early at the gate. What kind of weather should I expect? Cold and dry at high altitude, mild in the valley, and humid in Aguas Calientes. What should I pack for this trek? Thermal layers, rain gear, trekking shoes, sunscreen, and a reusable water bottle. Is this tour eco-friendly? Yes—we work with local guides, minimize waste, and promote responsible tourism. Can the itinerary be adapted? Yes—you can add nights in Cusco or Aguas Calientes, or combine with other destinations. |
