Group Service
Downhill
Sacred Valley & Machupicchu
View images
Salkantay Trek 5 Days with Humantay Lagoon to Machu Picchu
Why Choose the Salkantay Trek?
The Salkantay Trek 5 Days with Humantay Lagoon to Machu Picchu is often called the best alternative to the Inca Trail—and for good reason. It combines everything an adventurous traveler dreams of: breathtaking mountain passes, turquoise lagoons, lush cloud forests, and the grand finale at the world wonder of Machu Picchu.
Unlike the Inca Trail, the Salkantay route is less crowded and doesn’t require booking permits months in advance. This makes it ideal for travelers from the USA and Europe who want flexibility without sacrificing the magic of hiking in Peru.
One of the highlights is the Humantay Lagoon, a sacred glacier lake with surreal turquoise waters. Standing there at sunrise, with the snow-covered peaks reflecting in the water, was one of the most unforgettable moments of my trip.
Spanish
Map
Inclusions
Tour includes:
- Transport to and from Cusco.
- Professional bilingual guides.
- Horses/mules to carry equipment.
- Camping gear, eco-lodges, and hotels.
- Entrance ticket to Machu Picchu.
- All meals during the trek.
Not included:
- Breakfast on Day 1 and lunch on Day 5
- Entrance to Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain (optional)
- Sleeping bag (available for rent)
- Extra snacks and drinks
- Tips for guides, cooks, and horsemen
What to expect
- Humantay Lagoon: A turquoise jewel in the Andes.
- Salkantay Pass: Challenging but with epic views.
- Varied ecosystems: From snow-capped mountains to tropical coffee valleys.
- Cultural encounters: Meet local farmers and experience authentic Andean hospitality.
Itinerary
Day 1: Cusco ➝ Soraypampa ➝ Humantay Lagoon
We start early from Cusco, driving to Soraypampa (3,900 m). The first hike takes us to the stunning Humantay Lagoon (4,200 m). The contrast of the turquoise water against the glacier backdrop is simply breathtaking. After exploring, we return to camp at Soraypampa for dinner and a night under the stars.
Day 2: Soraypampa – Salkantay Pass – Chaullay
This is the most challenging day but also the most rewarding. We climb to the Salkantay Pass (4,650 m), the highest point of the trek, with panoramic views of the sacred Salkantay Mountain. The descent leads us into warmer valleys filled with waterfalls and cloud forests. Overnight stay in eco-lodges at Chaullay.
Day 3: Chaullay ➝ Lucmabamba (Coffee Valley)
We hike through tropical vegetation, orchids, and rivers. At Lucmabamba, we visit local coffee farmers and even taste freshly roasted beans. Sharing time with Andean families gives this trek a cultural touch that many visitors from Europe and North America appreciate. Overnight at a family lodge.
Day 4: Lucmabamba ➝ Llactapata ➝ Aguas Calientes
We climb to the Llactapata ruins, a hidden Inca site that offers the first distant view of Machu Picchu. The feeling of seeing the citadel for the first time, still days before reaching it, is unforgettable. From there, we descend to Hidroeléctrica, enjoy lunch, and hike along the railway to Aguas Calientes, the base town.The grand finale: an early start to reach Machu Picchu at sunrise. After a guided tour of the temples, terraces, and plazas, there’s time to explore on your own. For the adventurous, optional hikes to Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain are available. In the afternoon, we return by train and bus to Cusco.
Day 5: Machu Picchu – Cusco
The grand finale: an early start to reach Machu Picchu at sunrise. After a guided tour of the temples, terraces, and plazas, there’s time to explore on your own. For the adventurous, optional hikes to Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain are available. In the afternoon, we return by train and bus to Cusco.
Additional information
What to bring
- Light clothing.
- Sports shoes.
- Long-sleeved shirt.
- Lightweight jacket.
- Photo camera.
- Extra money. (50 soles)
Ride Highlights: Moray, Maras Salt Mines, Pichingoto & Death Road Peru
🚴 Moray & Maras
Ride past the ancient circular terraces of Moray and fly down to the glistening white Maras Salt Mines—an active salt harvesting site since Inca times.
🚴 Pichingoto Trail
This low-traffic, scenic trail mixes cobblestones and singletrack, perfect for an afternoon spin. Great chance to see llamas, farmers, and valley life.
🚴 Death Road Peru
This high-altitude descent drops more than 3,000 meters—from snowy peaks to jungle floor. Expect wild terrain, foggy cliffs, and incredible biodiversity as you fly through different ecosystems.
Price
520
Book now
Tour: Salkantay Trek 5 Days
Group service
Tour guide
Tourist Transportation
Train
Transfer
Bicycle
Biking Equipment
Hostel
Meals mentioned
Entrance tickets
Group service: Daily departures, in a maximum group of 8 passengers.
Show more +You might also like
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Yes, it’s more challenging due to altitude, but it’s equally rewarding and less crowded.
No. Unlike the Inca Trail, the Salkantay Trek doesn’t have limited permits, making it easier to plan last-minute trips.
April to October (dry season) is the most recommended period for international travelers.
Absolutely. Most agencies accept online reservations and international payments.
Yes, on the 5-day version, it’s part of Day 1