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Salkantay Extreme Trek 5 Days to Machu Picchu
The Ultimate Trek Experience in Peru
The Salkantay Extreme Trek 5 Days to Machu Picchu is one of the newest and most spectacular hiking routes in Peru. This adventure follows the lost trails of the Incas, taking you from the high Andean mountains down to the lush cloud forest of Machu Picchu. Along the way, you will cross breathtaking landscapes with snow-capped peaks, waterfalls, Inca ruins, and bamboo forests, before arriving at the world-famous citadel of Machu Picchu.
Unlike the classic Salkantay trek, this route explores unique places such as the Abra Incachiriasca (4950m), the Abra Palkay, and the stunning region of Ahobamba, before connecting with the Hydroelectric station and reaching Aguas Calientes.
This trek is challenging, but the reward is priceless: glaciers, turquoise lakes, cloud forests, and finally, one of the Seven Wonders of the World – Machu Picchu. In my experience, this tour is truly beautiful, unique, and perfect for travelers looking for a more extreme alternative to the traditional Salkantay trek.
Spanish
Map
Inclusions
Tour includes:
- Private transport Cusco – Mollepata and return Ollantaytambo – Cusco
- Entrance ticket to Machu Picchu
- Professional bilingual guide (English/Spanish)
- Full meals during the trek (except some meals in Cusco and Aguas Calientes)
- Camping equipment: tents, sleeping mats
- 1 night accommodation in Aguas Calientes (hostel)
- Horses to carry equipment (weight limit applies)
- First aid kit and oxygen
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 on the Salkantay Extreme Trek
- Physical challenge: demanding ascents at high altitude, especially at Abra Incachiriasca (4950m).
- Unique landscapes: turquoise lakes, glaciers, snow-capped mountains, cloud forests, and jungle valleys.
- Exclusive route: less crowded than the classic Salkantay trek, including Palkay and Ahobamba.
- Full adventure: camping in the Andes, cultural encounters, and rainforest transitions.
- The ultimate reward: reaching Machu Picchu, one of the New Seven Wonders of the World.
Salkantay Extreme Trek Itinerary (5 Days)
Day 1: Cusco – Mollepata – Soraypampa – Humantay Lake
Early departure from Cusco at 4:30 am towards Mollepata for breakfast, then continue to Soraypampa (3900m), the starting point of the hike. Ascend to the famous Humantay Lake, a turquoise jewel surrounded by snowy peaks. First campsite at Salkantaypampa.
Day 2: Death Road Peru – Andes to Jungle Descent
After breakfast, ascend for 2 hours to Salkantay Lake and continue another hour to the Abra Incachiriasca, the highest point of the trek with impressive views of the sacred Apu Salkantay. Descend to the Huayllabamba canyon for lunch, then hike to the Abra Palkay (4650m) with spectacular views of Salkantay and Palkay peaks. Overnight camping in the Palkay valley.
Day 3: Palkay Canyon – Inca Tambo – Ahobamba Valley
Breakfast at 6:00 am, then trek towards the Ahobamba valley, a remote and lush area with waterfalls and bamboo forests. Visit Inca Tambo, once an important Inca checkpoint. Continue to “La Playa,” where the campsite and bonfire await under a magical Andean night.
Day 4: La Playa – Hydroelectric – Aguas Calientes
Descend through the green valley of Ahobamba, passing coffee, coca, and banana plantations, as well as local houses. Continue to the Hydroelectric station, then hike along the train tracks to Aguas Calientes, where you will stay overnight in a hostel.
Day 5: Machu Picchu – Return to Cusco
Early morning walk (about 1 hour) up to the Lost City of the Incas – Machu Picchu. Enjoy a 2-hour guided tour visiting the most important temples and sites, followed by free time to explore on your own. Return by train to Ollantaytambo and transfer by bus to Cusco. End of the tour at your hotel.
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
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Tour: Salkantay Extreme Trek 5 Days to Machu Picchu
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.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Yes, this trek is considered challenging and is recommended for travelers in good physical condition and with some trekking experience.
From April to October, during the dry season, when the weather is clearer and trails are safer.
Thermal clothing, waterproof jacket, trekking boots, walking sticks, sunscreen, insect repellent, headlamp, and a camera.
Not mandatory, but highly recommended to have done hikes at altitude before.
Yes, but tickets are limited and must be booked in advance.