A rugged five-day route from the snowy heights of Salkantay down through cloud forest to Machu Picchu. Expect high passes, camp nights, changing ecosystems and deep cultural encounters with Andean life.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
You stand under a thin, high sky as the Andes exhale—cold, mineral air that sharpens each view. The trail begins above Soraypampa, climbs past Humantay Lake where turquoise water and hummingbirds punctuate the silence, then rises to the Salkantay pass before dropping into cloud forest that seems to pull you forward with warm, green hands.
Difficulty
challenging
Duration
5 days (approx. 40–50 hours including breaks)
Fitness Level
Good aerobic fitness and experience with multi-day hikes at altitude; ability to carry a daypack for 6–8 hours.
Wildlife
History
The trail follows pre-Columbian and Inca corridors; Machu Picchu was brought to international attention by Hiram Bingham in 1911 but local communities have long tended these routes.
Conservation
High visitor numbers strain fragile soils and water sources; follow leave-no-trace, use designated campsites and respect local waste protocols to reduce impact.
Reserve your spot on the Holistic Sacred Trek Salkantay to Machu Picchu 5 Day today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Acclimatize in Cusco first
Spend 48–72 hours in Cusco at moderate activity to reduce altitude sickness risk before the Salkantay pass.
Sturdy boots and gaiters
Trails include scree, wet jungle paths and steep stone; waterproof, broken-in hiking boots and gaiters prevent blisters and wet feet.
Hydrate and pace downhill
Drink small, frequent amounts and descend conservatively to protect knees on long downhill sections into the cloud forest.
Confirm Machu Picchu timing
Train windows and Machu Picchu entry times sell out—verify reservations and train return times before departure.
Sturdy waterproof hiking boots
Support and grip for rocky high passes and muddy cloud-forest trails.
Warm insulated layer (down or synthetic)
Nights at high camp drop well below freezing; a compact warm layer is critical.
winter
Waterproof rain jacket and pants
Heavy tropical and mountain rains are common—staying dry preserves warmth and morale.
summer
3-season sleeping bag (comfort to -5°C)
Camps reach cold temperatures; a rated sleeping bag ensures restorative sleep at altitude.