Salkantay Trek: From Glaciers to Jungle & Coffee Tour (5 Days)

Day 1: Cusco – Mollepata – Soraypampa – Humantay Lagoon

We leave Cusco early for Mollepata (2,900 m), where our trek begins. The ascent offers views of deep valleys and snow-capped mountains. We arrive at Soraypampa (3,900 m) , our first camp, with the imposing presence of Apu Salkantay.

In the afternoon, we hike to Humantay Lagoon (4,200 m), a turquoise lagoon fed by glaciers and a sacred site for the ancient Incas. Dinner and overnight under a starry Andean sky.

Distance: 11 km – Elevation: +900 m – Climate: temperate to cold

Includes:

• Professional guide

• Transport

• Breakfast, lunch, dinner

• Snacks

• Material de Camping

• Muleteers and horses for luggage

Day 2: Soraypampa – Abra Salkantay – Fishing

We wake up to coca tea and a sunrise over the glaciers. We ascend to the Salkantay Pass (4,650 m), the highest point on the route, where the views of the snow-capped peaks and the energy of the Apus surround us.

We descend into the cloud forest , observing how the landscape changes from alpine climate to tropical lushness. Lunch in Huayracmachay and continue to Chaullay (2,900 m).

Distance: 22 km – Elevation: +750 m / -1,400 m – Climate: cold to temperate

Includes:

• Professional guide

• Breakfast, lunch, dinner

• Snacks

• Material de Camping

• Muleteers and horses for luggage

Day 3: Chaullay – Collpapampa – Lucmabamba

After a restful break surrounded by nature, we awoke to the aroma of a hot breakfast that recharged us for the day ahead. Today we left the heights behind to enter the magical Peruvian highland jungle, hiking for about 5 hours and 30 minutes along trails that climb and descend through ever-changing landscapes.

Our tour takes us through a cloud forest , home to wild orchids, coffee plantations, and a wide variety of medicinal plants used by local communities since ancient times.

At lunchtime, we’ll enjoy a well-deserved break and a short coffee tour , where we’ll learn about the artisanal coffee growing and roasting process. In the afternoon, we arrive in Lucmabamba, where our campsite awaits us in the heart of the jungle.

Before dinner, you’ll have the option (not included) to relax in the Cocalmayo hot springs in Santa Teresa, one of Peru’s finest hot springs. We’ll return to camp for tea and conclude the day with a delicious dinner prepared by our camp chef.

Walking distance: 14 km / 8.7 miles

Includes:

• Professional guide

• Breakfast, lunch, dinner

• Snacks

• Material de Camping

• Muleteers and horses for luggage

Day 4: Lucmabamba – Llactapata – Hydropower – Hot Water

We wake up surrounded by the Peruvian highland jungle, among rivers, waterfalls, orchids, and coffee, banana, and avocado plantations. After a nutritious breakfast, we begin one of the most special stages of the Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu: we’ll hike a section of the original Inca Trail , ascending for 2.5 hours with panoramic views of the Santa Teresa Valley.

We’ll arrive at the Llactapata archaeological site , from where we’ll have our first view of Machu Picchu and Huayna Picchu. We’ll then descend for lunch and continue to Hidroeléctrica.

From here you can choose:

Walk 3 more hours to Aguas Calientes.

• Or take the panoramic train (additional cost USD 38).

• In Aguas Calientes, we’ll enjoy dinner at a local restaurant and spend the night in a hotel, just steps from the Wonder of the World.

Walking distance: 18 km / 11 mi

• Professional guide

• Breakfast, lunch, dinner

• Snacks

• Hotel

Day 5: Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu – Cusco

Today we experienced the highlight of the Salkantay Trek : a visit to the majestic Inca Citadel of Machu Picchu , one of the New Seven Wonders of the World and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

We’ll have an early breakfast at the hotel and head to the bus station. The tour bus ride from Aguas Calientes takes about 30 minutes, ascending a mountain road with stunning views of the Urubamba River and the verdant Andean foothills.

Upon arriving at the main gate, we’ll enter with our guide and head to the classic viewpoint , where you can take the iconic panoramic photo of Machu Picchu with Huayna Picchu in the background. We’ll then take a guided tour of the most iconic spots.

During your visit, you’ll learn about the stories, mysteries, and architectural techniques that have made Machu Picchu a symbol of Inca engineering and spirituality.

At the end, if you booked in advance, you will have time to hike to Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain (additional cost USD 95).

At the agreed-upon time, we will descend by tourist bus to Aguas Calientes to take the panoramic train and return by road to Cusco.

Includes:

• Professional guide

• Breakfast, lunch

• Entrance to Machu Picchu

• Bus tickets

• Tren Expedition

• Expert guides passionate about Andean culture and high-mountain trekking.

• Private transportation to and from your hotel in Cusco for the start and end of the tour.

• Accommodation:

  • Private Terres des Incas-style campsites (mountain tents, sleeping mats, and warm ponchos).

  • Basic accommodation in Santa Teresa (day 3).

  • Hotel in Aguas Calientes (double room with private bathroom, day 4).

• All meals throughout the trek (breakfast, lunch, dinner + energy snacks), except for some meals in towns.

• Boiled and filtered water during the tour.

• Muleteers and horses for transporting camping equipment and personal bags for the first 3 days.

• Official tickets to Machu Picchu (regular circuit).

• Specialized guide for the guided tour of Machu Picchu.

• Panoramic return train from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo.

• Private transport Ollantaytambo → Cusco.

• Complete first aid kit with emergency oxygen.

• Pre-departure briefing .

• Sleeping bag ($45), inflatable mattress ($40), trekking poles ($40) – available for rent.

• Entrance to Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain ($95, optional, requires prior reservation).

• Entrance to Cocalmayo hot springs (day 3) and activities.

• Personal expenses and tips for the team.

• Travel insurance (highly recommended).

Prior acclimatization in Cusco

• Before starting the Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu, spend at least two nights in Cusco (3,400 m) to adjust to the altitude. This will reduce the risk of altitude sickness and allow you to enjoy each stage of the trek more fully.

Physical condition and preparation

• The Salkantay Trek is of moderate difficulty and combines high mountain climbs with descents into the high jungle . It includes long walks and stair climbs to strengthen your legs and cardiovascular endurance.

Appropriate equipment and clothing

• Bring waterproof hiking boots , thermal clothing, a windbreaker, and light layers for warmer sections. Don’t forget a raincoat , hat, gloves, sunscreen, insect repellent, and a headlamp. A -5°C sleeping bag is essential.

Hydration and nutrition

• Drink plenty of water (bring a canteen or camelback pack of at least 2L) and eat energy-packed snacks. Our camps offer nutritious meals tailored to your trekking needs.

Climate and temperature changes

• At the Salkantay Pass (4,650 m), temperatures can drop below 0°C, while in the high jungle of Santa Teresa, the climate is warmer and more humid. Prepare for sudden changes in weather and wear layers.

Optional experiences

• Take advantage of additional activities such as the Cocalmayo hot springs (relaxing after several days of hiking) or the Santa Teresa zip line for an extra touch of adventure.

Cultural and natural respect

• The Salkantay Trek passes through local communities and fragile ecosystems . Respect their customs, support local artisans, and follow responsible tourism practices: don’t leave trash and respect the flora and fauna.

Machu Picchu and extra activities

• Book your entrance to Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain in advance if you want to add a physical challenge and unique panoramic views after your guided tour of the citadel.