Cross glacier-carved ridges and cloud forest on the five-day Salkantay route from Cusco to Machu Picchu. Expect a 4,700 m pass, homestays, cabins and a 75 km multi-day trek that blends geology, Inca ruins and jungle descent.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
Dawn in Cusco is a thin, cold light as vans thread out toward Mollepata and the high slopes of the Vilcabamba range. By midmorning you stand at Soraypampa, boots on scree, and the massif of Salkantay looms—a glacier-fed wall that will demand each breath on the pass at roughly 4,700 m. Over five days the route crosses 75 km of Andes: alpine moraine, a high pass, cloud forest descent and a final walk along railway tracks into Aguas Calientes beneath the shadows of Machu Picchu.
Difficulty
challenging
Duration
5 days
Fitness Level
Good aerobic fitness and prior multi-day hiking experience recommended; ability to hike 6–8 hours on steep, high-altitude trails.
Wildlife
History
The route crosses pre-Inca and Inca-era pathways; Llactapata was an agricultural and lookout site linked visually to Machu Picchu.
Conservation
Travelers are encouraged to pack out plastics and respect local water sources; supporting local homestays helps community conservation and sustainable tourism.
Reserve your spot on the Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu 5 Days and 4 Nights today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Acclimatize in Cusco
Spend 48–72 hours in Cusco before departure to reduce altitude sickness risk; avoid heavy drinking and do short walks only the first day.
Limit your pack to 5 kg
Only bring the small duffel (5 kg) provided for horse transport; keep essentials in a comfortable daypack.
Sun and cold protection
High-altitude sun is strong even when cold—use SPF 50+, a brimmed hat, and insulated layers for overnight camps.
Footwear and traction
Sturdy waterproof hiking boots and a light pair of gaiters reduce blisters on varied terrain from scree to jungle trails.
Waterproof backpacking boots
Support and protection across scree, mud and wet jungle approaches.
Insulated down jacket
Keeps you warm at high camps and during early-morning starts at altitude.
winter
3-season sleeping bag (rated to -5°C)
Night temperatures near the pass can drop below freezing; a quality sleeping bag ensures rest.
Trekking poles
Reduce knee strain on steep descents and provide stability on loose or muddy sections.