Trek the stunning Salkantay route to Machu Picchu on this premium 5-day adventure. Cross the high Salkantay Pass with breathtaking Andean views, visit turquoise Humantay Lake, and end at the iconic Wonder of Machu Picchu. Stay in upscale lodges with cozy beds, excellent food, and private facilities. Small groups ensure personalized attention and seamless logistics.
You’ll conquer the soaring 4,630-meter Salkantay Pass without sacrificing the comforts of a high-end expedition.
This premium 5-day trek replaces traditional tents with a series of exclusive, upscale accommodations: panoramic Sky Camps for stargazing, Mountain View cabins, and Super Jungle Domes. While other hikers struggle with heavy gear, our professional team of horsemen and porters handles your 10kg duffel bag, allowing you to focus on the turquoise waters of Humantay Lake and the dramatic transition from Andean glaciers to the lush coffee plantations of the cloud forest.
You get a personalized, small-group atmosphere led by expert mountain guides who navigate you through the original Inca Trail at Llactapata - a rare viewpoint where you can see Machu Picchu from across the valley before even arriving.
This journey culminates in a luxury return aboard the Vistadome Observatory train, featuring 360-degree views of the Urubamba River. Because entrance permits for the Citadel are strictly regulated and capped, you should book your Salkantay Trek at least three to four months in advance to secure your preferred circuit.
Expect a rigorous physical challenge balanced by high-end amenities. You will traverse several microclimates, meaning you'll need to prepare for freezing mountain nights and humid, mosquito-prone jungle days. While the team handles the heavy logistics and provides gourmet meals, you should have a strong fitness level to manage the 6 to 8 hours of daily hiking. This is a "glamping" style experience where the focus is on cultural immersion, high-altitude landscapes, and luxury recovery after each day's trek.
Our clients suggest that the 10kg weight limit for your duffel is more than enough if you use the provided sleeping bag, but warn that you must bring your own high-quality hiking socks to prevent blisters during the Day 2 descent.
Travellers who booked tours with us recommend bringing plenty of small Soles (local currency) for the Cocalmayo hot springs and the coffee farm, as credit cards are rarely accepted in the remote Santa Teresa valley.
If you find the Day 2 ascent too difficult, our past travellers note that an "emergency horse" is usually available for a portion of the climb to the pass, though it's better to acclimatize in Cusco for 2 days beforehand.
The Vistadome train return is a highlight; guests mention that the live traditional dance performances and fashion shows onboard are the perfect way to celebrate finishing the trek.
The Salkantay trail is highly dependent on the Andean weather cycle, with trail conditions shifting significantly between months.
Recommended Start Time: 4:00 AM. This early departure is critical to stay ahead of the crowds and ensure you reach the first camp in time to enjoy the afternoon light at Humantay Lake.
It is considered challenging. You will hike roughly 60km (37 miles) over 5 days, reaching altitudes over 15,000 feet. Good physical condition is required.
Yes, our exclusive Sky Camps and Jungle Domes are equipped with private or shared bathroom facilities and showers, though hot water can be limited in the high mountains.
Connectivity is extremely limited and should not be expected until you reach Aguas Calientes on Day 4. This is a time to disconnect.
We aim for Circuit 2 (the most complete) for bookings made 3+ months in advance. Late bookings may be assigned Circuit 3 or 1 based on government availability.
We provide sleeping bags and poles, but if you need specialized technical clothing, it is best to rent or buy it in Cusco before the 4:00 AM pickup.
Book it today with Machu Picchu Guided Tours or simply following this link.
