Where the Andes
Become Legend
The Salkantay Trek is the most impressive alternative trekking route to Machu Picchu: five days that take you from Cusco's 3,400 meters up to the 4,630-meter Salkantay Pass, then descend dramatically into the tropical cloud forest, culminating in a walk-in arrival at the Incas' lost citadel. A route that combines extreme altitude, tropical biodiversity, Andean communities, and one of the world's most iconic archaeological destinations.
There's no railway or road that gets you here. Just your own two legs, the Andean wind, and the most dramatic landscapes in southern Peru.
Salkantay Pass, 4,630 m — The highest point of the trek, with panoramic views of the glacier. An experience that puts you in perspective against the sheer immensity of the Andes.
From mountain to jungle in a single day — The descent from the frozen high plains into warm, green valleys is one of the most striking contrasts on the whole route.
Arriving at Machu Picchu on foot — Walking into the citadel after covering every kilometer by foot carries a completely different meaning than arriving by train.
Your Itinerary
1
Cusco → Soraypampa
The trek begins beneath Salkantay MountainDeparture at 4:00 AM from Cusco by private transport to Mollepata. First stretch of hiking to Soraypampa (3,900 m), with direct views of the Salkantay glacier. Setting up camp or checking into the lodge, depending on the package chosen.
2
Salkantay Pass → La Playa
The heart of the trek: the great mountain passThe most challenging and most glorious day. Ascent to Salkantay Pass at 4,630 m / 15,190 ft, the high point of the trek. The views of the glacier are absolutely stunning. Dramatic descent toward La Playa (2,350 m), where the vegetation changes completely: we enter the cloud forest.
3
La Playa → Santa Teresa
A jungle walk and natural hot springsA pleasant walk through coffee farms and tropical fruit plantations. Arrival in Santa Teresa, where the day's reward awaits: the Cocalmayo hot springs. An afternoon of total relaxation after two days of hard trekking.
4
Santa Teresa → Aguas Calientes
Arriving at the foot of Machu PicchuThe final day of hiking: we cross the Urubamba River on a hanging bridge and follow the train tracks to Aguas Calientes. An epic arrival, walking where the train can't take you. Overnight at a hotel with a well-earned hot shower.
5
Machu Picchu / Return to Cusco
The reward: the lost citadelWaking up early is worth it. We're among the first to enter Machu Picchu. A 2.5-hour guided tour through the main points. The afternoon is free before the return train to Cusco, arriving that evening.
Route Map
Five days through the most impressive landscapes in southern Peru, from glacier to jungle.
Cusco · 3,400 m / 11,152 ft
Starting point. An early morning departure to reach Mollepata and begin the trek.
Soraypampa · 3,900 m / 12,795 ft
At the foot of Salkantay Mountain. First night on the mountain.
Salkantay Pass · 4,630 m / 15,190 ft
The highest point. Glacier views and the descent into the cloud forest.
Santa Teresa · 1,600 m / 5,249 ft
Cloud forest, hot springs, and well-earned rest.
Aguas Calientes / Machu Picchu · 2,430 m / 7,972 ft
The final arrival: the Incas' lost citadel.
What's Included?
Included
- Private transfer Cusco → Mollepata and back
- Certified bilingual guide (Spanish/English)
- All meals during the trek (days 1–4)
- 4 nights of accommodation (lodge or campsite)
- Machu Picchu entrance + round-trip bus
- Full camping equipment
- Cook and support staff
- Train Aguas Calientes → Cusco
- First-aid kit + portable oxygen
Not Included
- International or Lima–Cusco flights
- Travel insurance (mandatory)
- Tips for guides and staff
- Alcoholic drinks and personal expenses
- Extra mules for personal gear
- Trekking poles (rental available)
Tour Photos
Travelers Who've
Done This Tour
Verified reviews from real people who completed this itinerary.
Salkantay Pass was the hardest thing I've ever done, but also the most incredible. When we walked into Machu Picchu, we cried. This isn't a tour, it's a transformation.
Our guide Carlos was incredible — he knew every plant, every stone, every story. The hot springs after the second day of hiking were exactly what we needed. Fully recommended.
