Trek Salkantay Classic 5 days

Day 01: Cusco – Mollepata – Soraypampa

Early departure from your hotel in Cusco toward Mollepata (2,850 m.a.s.l.). The trip takes approximately 3 hours, passing through the Limatambo Valley. Breakfast in Mollepata before starting the hike.

We begin the trek toward Soraypampa, first passing through Cruzpata, where we will have lunch. The route continues through beautiful Andean landscapes until reaching the first campsite in Soraypampa (3,850 m.a.s.l.). Along the hike you will enjoy views of the Humantay snow-capped peak. Arrival at the campsite in the afternoon, where the porter team will have the tents set up and hot tea ready. Dinner and overnight. This is the coldest campsite of the trek.

Hiking time: Approximately 5–6 hours | Altitude: 3,850 m.a.s.l.

Day 02: Soraypampa – Salkantay Pass – Chaullay

After breakfast, we begin the ascent to Salkantay Pass, the highest point of the trek at 4,650 m.a.s.l. The climb takes about 3–4 hours and offers panoramic views of Salkantay Mountain (6,271 m.a.s.l.) and the Vilcabamba Range. At the summit, you will find apachetas (traditional Andean stone piles) and have time for photos. It is also possible to spot Andean condors in this area.

From the pass, we start descending toward Chaullay (2,900 m.a.s.l.), passing through different ecological zones and the area of Wayracmachay. The descent takes approximately 4 hours. Arrival at the campsite, tea time, and dinner. Overnight in Chaullay.

Hiking time: Approximately 7–8 hours | Maximum altitude: 4,650 m.a.s.l.

Day 03: Chaullay – Collpapampa – La Playa – Santa Teresa

After breakfast, we continue the hike toward Santa Teresa, passing through Collpapampa. The trail traverses the mountainside along narrow paths surrounded by subtropical vegetation. Along the way, you will see orchids, coffee plantations, cornfields, fruit trees, and beautiful waterfalls.

After approximately 5 hours of hiking, we reach La Playa, where we take a vehicle to the town of Santa Teresa (1,645 m.a.s.l.). The drive takes about 45 minutes. Campsite setup upon arrival. In the afternoon, you have the option to visit the Cocalmayo hot springs (45 minutes from town, additional cost not included). Dinner and overnight.

Hiking time: Approximately 5 hours | Altitude: 1,645 m.a.s.l.

Day 04: Santa Teresa – Hydroelectric – Aguas Calientes

After breakfast, we begin the hike following the Urubamba River. The trail crosses high jungle areas with tropical vegetation, coffee plantations, and fruit trees. We walk approximately 3 hours until reaching the Hydroelectric station, a small village with a train station.

From Hydroelectric, we continue walking along the train tracks toward Aguas Calientes for about 3 more hours. The trail is relatively flat and offers views of the Urubamba River canyon and the first glimpses of the mountains surrounding Machu Picchu. Arrival in Aguas Calientes in the afternoon. Hotel check-in, dinner, and briefing for the next day’s visit to Machu Picchu.

Hiking time: Approximately 6 hours | Altitude: 2,040 m.a.s.l.

Day 05: Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu – Cusco

Early wake-up for breakfast and taking one of the first buses up to Machu Picchu (a 25-minute ride). Guided tour of approximately 2–3 hours through the main sectors of the citadel according to the circuit assigned on your entrance ticket.

After the guided tour, you will have free time to explore on your own, take photos, or do short hikes such as the Sun Gate or the Inca Bridge, depending on availability and your energy level. Return to Aguas Calientes for lunch (not included) and take the train back to Ollantaytambo or Poroy. From the station, private transport to Cusco. Arrival in Cusco at night and transfer to your hotel.

Machu Picchu altitude: 2,430 m.a.s.l.