Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu — 5 Days

After an early breakfast, you’ll begin the toughest day of the trek. Hike uphill for about 3 to 4 hours on high-Andean trails to reach the Salkantay Pass, the highest point of the route. From here you’ll enjoy spectacular views of the Salkantay, Humantay and Pumasillo glaciers, and you’ll take part in a brief gratitude ceremony to the mountains. After time for photos, descend to Huayracmachay for lunch. In the afternoon, continue hiking for about three more hours to Colpapampa, already in the cloud-forest edge zone with warmer temperatures and lush vegetation. Set up camp and rest after an intense day.

After breakfast, you’ll hike along the river, crossing bridges and paths surrounded by coffee, banana and passion fruit (granadilla) plantations. You’ll reach Lucmabamba, where you’ll take part in preparing the traditional pachamanca and visit an organic coffee farm, connecting with local life and agriculture. After lunch, climb for about three hours along an ancient Inca Trail section to the archaeological site of Llactapata. From this privileged spot you’ll get your first view of Machu Picchu from the mountains—an unforgettable moment thanks to its unique perspective. Camp facing the citadel in a special natural setting, ideal for sunset and—weather permitting—sunrise.

After breakfast, you’ll descend into the valley through lush vegetation and cloud-forest edge scenery until reaching Hydroelectric, where you’ll have lunch and a short rest. Then continue walking along the railway to Aguas Calientes. Enjoy free time in town to rest, explore or relax before the most anticipated day of the trip. Dinner and overnight in a comfortable lodge, getting ready for Machu Picchu.

Very early, around 5:30 a.m., you’ll head up to Machu Picchu either on foot or by optional bus. Enter early to enjoy the citadel with fewer visitors and—if conditions allow—catch sunrise. Enjoy a ~2-hour guided tour of the main sectors, with explanations of Inca history and architecture, followed by free time for photos and exploration. At the scheduled time, descend to Aguas Calientes for lunch, then board the return train to Ollantaytambo and continue by bus to Cusco, arriving around 7:30 p.m.