Route
Day 1 : Begin Salkantay Trek
Day 2 : Salkantay Trek
Day 3 : Salktantay Trek
Day 4 : Salkantay Trek - Aguas Calientes
Day 5 : Machu Picchu - Cusco
We can customize any itinerary
Top hotels and small group or private tours.
24/7 In-Trip Support
From Salkantay to Machu Picchu
Camp at the base of the sacred mountain of Salktanty and walk through an astonishing diversity of landscapes on this trekking adventure to Machu Picchu.
Day 1 : Begin Salkantay Trek
Day 2 : Salkantay Trek
Day 3 : Salktantay Trek
Day 4 : Salkantay Trek - Aguas Calientes
Day 5 : Machu Picchu - Cusco
Follow the path of the Incas on a trek through Peru’s picturesque Vilcabamba range and admire the majestic and sacred Salkantay Mountain as you make your way to Machu Picchu. For centuries, Andean people have worshiped the mountains as gods, which they call Apus, and Salkantay Mountain in particular, one of the highest peaks in Peru, has played a central role in the astrology and spirituality of Andean cultures past and present.
The reverence shown to the Apus by the Incas is especially obvious at the world-renowned citadel of Machu Picchu, one of the Seven New World Wonders. Here, the concept of “sacred geography” is reflected in the citadel’s stunning architecture and location, as well as in its alignment with the mountains and the movements of the sun and the stars.
This breathtaking adventure in the heart of the Vilcabamba range will take you through astonishing landscapes dominated by snow-capped peaks, crossed by mighty rivers, and populated by quaint traditional villages, until you reach the mountaintop citadel of Machu Picchu itself.
The Salkantay trek to Machu Picchu is challenging yet immensely rewarding and ranks high among Peru’s most spectacular trekking routes.
Our tours are Fully Customizable and leave 365 days a year! Our travel experts are happy to help.
Distance: 4.5 mi (7 km)
Minimum Altitude: 13,780 ft (4,200 m)
Maximum Altitude: 14,700 ft (4,480 m)
Approximate Time: 4 to 5 hrs
Gradient: Moderate
Distance: 10 mi (16 km)
Minimum Altitude: 9,680 ft (2,950 m)
Maximum Altitude: 15,000 ft (4,600 m)
Approximate Time: 7 to 9 hrs
Gradient: Challenging
Distance: 9 mi (15 km)
Minimum Altitude: 6,070 ft (1,850 m)
Maximum Altitude: 9,680 ft (2,950 m)
Approximate Time: 5 to 6 hrs
Gradient: Moderate
Distance: 7.5 mi (12 km)
Minimum Altitude: 6,070 ft (1,850 m)
Maximum Altitude: 8,200 feet (2,500 m)
Approximate Time: 5 to 6 hours
Gradient: Moderate/Challenging
Places Visited:
Machu Picchu - Cusco - Sacred Valley
*All our itineraries are fully customizable, just ask!
Please contact one of our expert travel advisors for more information.
With the Salkantay package you will receive:
Transportation and tickets
Equipment
Team
Food
Not Included
*Note: This trek is also available in a shorter 4 Day / 3 Night version. For more information and pricing for the shorter Salkantay Trek, please consult with a Travel Advisor.
Kilometer 110 Via Ferrea, Aguas Calientes, Machu Picchu
The Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo Hotel is a naturalist’s haven. Conveniently nestled in the verdant Andean cloud forest, this lovely hotel is the perfect place to catch a glimpse of the astonishing flora and fauna of the region. The eco-friendly hotel resembles an Andean village and is comprised of charming white-washed cottages decorated with modern indigenous art as well as authentic pre-Columbian artifacts. With a commitment to indulging the whims of its guests, this luxury hotel expertly combines nature and comfort to create a one-of-a-kind Machu Picchu experience. Try some regional dishes at the excellent restaurant overlooking the Urubamba River.
Av. Pachacutec 109, Aguas Calientes, Machu Picchu
Ideally located near the Aguas Calientes train station and close to where the buses depart for the short shuttle bus to Machu Picchu, El MaPi Hotel by Inkaterra is perfect for travelers who want to catch the sunrise over the ruins. The modern and stylish hotel aims to be the best in its category and offers great value services and décor. It also boasts beautifully landscaped gardens and a hot tub where guests can relax at night with a cocktail after a delicious dinner.
Prolongacion Imperio de Los Incas E - 34, Aguas Calientes, Machu Picchu
Always a reliable choice for mid-range accommodation in Peru, Casa Andina has recently opened a Machu Picchu hotel that greets guests with friendly service and all the amenities needed for an overnight stay in Aguas Calientes. This 3-star hotel offers 54 rooms distributed on 5 floors and a restaurant overlooking the Urubamba River.
Calle Wiracocha 202, Aguas Calientes, Machu Picchu
Situated in the middle of Aguas Calientes town, within easy walking distance of the train station and the shuttle stop to Machu Picchu, Waman Hotel and its friendly staff are ready to receive travelers. Breakfast and dinner are served on the 6th-floor, glass-enclosed Anka Restaurant, where on misty mornings you’ll feel like you’re floating in the clouds. Each of the 31 rooms features a flatscreen TV with cable channels, safe box, minibar, free WiFi, and bathroom with Jacuzzi and hot shower.