Moderate to challenging. Day 2 is the hardest, you hike 6 to 7 hours up to Salkantay Pass at 4,630m. The 5 day version is easier than 4 day because days are shorter and you sleep two nights in our Sky Domes in Soraypampa at 3,900m to acclimatize. You need good fitness, you can walk 6 hours uphill with a daypack, but no technical climbing. If you can do Rainbow Mountain, you can do this.
Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu 5 Days
The 5-Day Salkantay Trek is our most comprehensive alpine expedition, expertly designed for travelers who want to absorb every dramatic shift of the Peruvian landscape without rushing the journey. Over five diverse days, you will traverse the entire ecological spectrum of the Andes, pushing past turquoise glacial waters and crossing the formidable Salkantay Pass at 4,650 meters before descending into the vibrant, subtropical coffee plantations of the high Amazon. By replacing freezing nylon tents with stays in our exclusive glass-walled Skydomes and pairing grueling climbs with a therapeutic afternoon at the Cocalmayo Hot Springs, this is the definitive Salkantay experience engineered for ultimate endurance and recovery.
- Duration: 5 Days / 4 Nights
- Difficulty: Challenging (Balanced with dedicated recovery days and supportive infrastructure)
- Highest Altitude: 4,650 meters (Salkantay Pass)
- Key Highlights: Humantay Lake, Salkantay Pass & Alpine Lake, Volcanic Hot Springs, Interactive Coffee Experience, Llactapata Inca Ruins (Panoramic Viewpoint), and the Machu Picchu Citadel.
- The Skydome Advantage: Exclusive overnight stays at our private, climate-controlled Soraypampa and Colpapampa luxury dome sites equipped with real beds and panoramic starlight viewing.
Why Choose the 5-Day Expedition?
- Full Ecosystem Immersion: More time to explore the transition from the high Andean “Puna” to the lush “Cloud Forest.”
- Restorative Luxury: Features a dedicated afternoon at the Cocalmayo Hot Springs and a Sauna/Jacuzzi session at our Colpapampa site.
- Cultural Depth: Includes an interactive coffee plantation tour to learn about local Amazonian agriculture.
- Superior Acclimatization: A steadier pace that helps your body adjust to the high altitudes of the Salkantay Pass.
Details of the trip
Day 1 | The Gateway: Cusco – Humantay Lake – Soraypampa
We start with an early morning private transfer from Cusco, winding through scenic mountain valleys to Challacancha, the trailhead for your expedition. Setting off on foot, you follow an ancient stone aqueduct path that climbs steadily into the vast, untouched wilderness of the high Andes. By early afternoon, after a chef-prepared gourmet meal at your basecamp, you ascend to the mesmerizing shores of Humantay Lake. Framed by sheer glacial walls, the water glows an electric turquoise under the sun, creating an isolated pocket of pure natural wonder.
As night falls, you retreat to your exclusive Soraypampa Skydome. Rather than shivering in a nylon tent, your climate-controlled glass-walled dome lets you stretch out in a real bed while millions of stars and the glowing arch of the Milky Way frame the towering glacier right outside your window.
- Highlights: Scenic Andean drive, ancient aqueduct trek, Humantay Lake.
- Accommodation: Soraypampa Luxury Skydome.
- Food: Chef-prepared lunch, afternoon tea, and gourmet dinner.
- Walking Distance: 12 km (approx. 4–5 hours).
- Max Altitude: 4,200 meters.
Day 2 | The Peak: Salkantay Pass – Colpapampa
Rise before dawn for the most physically demanding and spiritually uplifting day of the expedition. You tackle the punishing switchbacks of the trail, pushing up to conquer the legendary Salkantay Pass at 4,650 meters. Standing face-to-face with frozen seracs and the towering, snow-clad majesty of Apu Salkantay, you share in a deep sense of accomplishment before taking an exclusive, crowd-free side trip to a hidden turquoise glacial lake tucked deep beneath the peaks.
Descending past the tree line into the changing climate of Colpapampa, your reward is immediate and luxurious. Instead of lingering fatigue, you step straight into the private sauna and jacuzzi at our Colpapampa Skydomes, melting away the strain of a long alpine push before sitting down for a multi-course dinner.
- Highlights: Salkantay Pass conquest, hidden alpine lake, high-altitude ecosystem shift.
- Accommodation: Colpapampa Luxury Skydome.
- Food: Hot breakfast, trail lunch, afternoon tea, and multi-course dinner.
- Walking Distance: 22 km (approx. 8–9 hours).
- Max Altitude: 4,650 meters.
Day 3 | The Tropics: Hot Springs & Coffee Plantation
Trading the stark, frozen beauty of the high puna for the vibrant energy of the high jungle, today’s descent takes you deeper into subtropical valleys. The air warms rapidly as the trail is flanked by wild orchids, cascading waterfalls, and heavy orchards of passionfruit, avocado, and cacao. By afternoon, you stop at a local family-run estate for an immersive bean-to-cup coffee experience, harvesting, roasting, and grinding organic Amazonian beans alongside local growers.
The afternoon concludes with a therapeutic soak in the natural volcanic pools of Cocalmayo. Nestled beneath jungle cliffs beside a roaring river, the multi-tiered warm waters completely wash away every trace of muscle tension from the previous day’s climb.
- Highlights: High jungle transition, bean-to-cup coffee tour, Cocalmayo Hot Springs.
- Accommodation: Jungle Dome / Luxury Lodge.
- Food: Hearty breakfast, organic plantation lunch, afternoon snacks, and dinner.
- Walking Distance: 15 km (approx. 5–6 hours).
- Max Altitude: 2,900 meters descending to 2,100 meters.
Day 4 | The Perspective: Llaqtapata – Aguas Calientes
Leaving the main tourist routes far behind, you climb a remote, original stone-paved segment of the Inca Trail winding through dense cloud forest foliage. Breaking out onto the ancient ridge of Llaqtapata, you are met with a rare, breathtaking perspective of the Machu Picchu Citadel sitting directly across the canyon, revealing a hidden angle of the lost city witnessed by very few travelers in total historical silence.
After exploring the ruins and enjoying a panoramic picnic lunch, you descend to Hidroeléctrica and board the scenic afternoon train to Aguas Calientes. Check into your comfortable hotel, unwind, and enjoy a celebratory dinner in town as anticipation builds for the final reward.
- Highlights: Original Inca Trail section, Llaqtapata panoramic citadel viewpoint, scenic train ride.
- Accommodation: 4-Star Hotel in Aguas Calientes.
- Food: Breakfast, panoramic trail lunch, and celebratory dinner in town.
- Walking Distance: 16 km (approx. 6 hours).
- Max Altitude: 3,600 meters.
Day 5 | The Icon: Machu Picchu – Cusco
The grand finale of your expedition begins with an early morning bus ride up the winding mountain switchbacks, entering the citadel of Machu Picchu just as the morning mist lifts off the ancient stone ruins before the day-trippers arrive. Your expert guide leads you through a comprehensive, private tour of the agricultural terraces, royal quarters, temples, and sacred plazas of this New Wonder of the World.
After soaking in the timeless atmosphere of the sanctuary, you take the afternoon bus back down to Aguas Calientes for lunch. Boarding the premium Vistadome train, you journey back through the Sacred Valley with large panoramic windows and cultural onboard entertainment, where a private vehicle waits to return you directly to your hotel in Cusco.
- Max Altitude: 2,430 meters at the Machu Picchu Citadel.
- Highlights: Private guided tour of Machu Picchu, early morning citadel access,
- Accommodation: End of Expedition with return to Cusco.
- Food: Hotel breakfast and lunch in Aguas Calientes.
- Walking Distance: Exploration walking within the Machu Picchu sanctuary (approx. 2–3 hours).
Package Details
Included & Not Included
What is Included for the Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu 5 Days?
Transportation & Logistics
- Door-to-Door Service: Private pickup from your Cusco hotel and a comfortable transfer to the Soraypampa trailhead.
- Return Transfers: Seamless transport from the Ollantaytambo station back to your Cusco hotel.
- Rail Journey: Return train tickets from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo for a scenic ride through the Andes.
- Machu Picchu Shuttle: Round-trip bus tickets between Aguas Calientes and the Machu Picchu sanctuary.
- Expert Orientation: A pre-trek briefing session to finalize gear, luggage storage, and logistics.
Access & Discovery
- Official Permits: All required entrance fees for the Salkantay Trail and the Machu Picchu Citadel.
- Professional Leadership: Expert, bilingual professional guide(s) trained in high-altitude safety and Andean history.
- Guided Exploration: An immersive, private guided tour of the Machu Picchu sanctuary.
- Curated Side-Trips: Included visit to the turquoise Humantay Lake and an interactive Coffee Plantation tour in Lucmabamba.
Accommodations & Mountain Dining
- The Campsite Experience: High-quality trekking tents and insulated sleeping mats for all camping nights.
- Luxury Social Areas: Dedicated dining, kitchen, and toilet tents equipped with comfortable tables and chairs.
- Urban Comfort: One night’s stay in a hand-picked hotel in Aguas Calientes with private facilities.
- Gourmet Mountain Meals: All meals on the trail (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner) plus daily snacks and traditional Andean “Tea Time.”
- Bespoke Menus: Specialized dietary options (vegan, gluten-free, etc.) are available upon request.
- Hydration: Continuous supply of drinking water throughout the trek.
Porterage & Safety
- Load Management: Professional porters or horses to carry all camping equipment and your personal belongings (weight limits apply).
- Safety Protocol: Comprehensive first aid kit and emergency medical oxygen available 24/7.
- Emergency Support: A standby emergency horse is provided to ensure the safety and pace of the group.
Not Included
- Personal Trekking Gear: Professional rentals are available for high-altitude sleeping bags ($15) and trekking poles ($10).
- Optional Mountain Climbs: Entrance tickets for Huayna Picchu ($69) or Machu Picchu Mountain ($69). (Must be booked months in advance).
- Travel Insurance: Comprehensive travel and medical insurance is highly recommended and must be arranged independently.
- Urban Dining: Meals in Cusco or Aguas Calientes before and after the trek itinerary.
- Personal Wellness: Entrance fees to the local Hot Springs in Aguas Calientes ($4) and personal items like laundry or phone calls.
- Extra Transport: International or domestic flights to Cusco and any unscheduled transportation.
- Tipping: Gratuities for your dedicated trekking crew (guides, chefs, and porters) are at your discretion.
- Contingency Costs: Medical or emergency evacuation costs and any additional nights of accommodation outside the itinerary.
Travel Essentials
Important Information
High Altitude Consideration
This is a high altitude trek that crosses Salkantay Pass at 4,630m. That is higher than any point on the Inca Trail. You must arrive in Cusco at least 48 hours before Day 1 to acclimatize. Day 2 is the hardest with a long climb at altitude and should not be underestimated. Walk at your own pace, tell your guide how you feel, and drink at least 3 liters of water per day.
Airport Arrival
When you land in Lima you must clear immigration and customs, collect your checked bag, and check it again for your flight to Cusco. Even if your airline said your bag goes straight through, it does not on this route. Leave at least 3 hours between flights or you will miss your connection.
Luggage Policy
You hike light. Our horses carry your duffel up to 7kg so you only carry a daypack on the trail. Your big suitcase stays free and safe in our office in Cusco. Your duffel meets you each night, including at our Sky Domes in Soraypampa and at your hotel in Aguas Calientes on Day 4.
Money Matters
Everything big is included: permits, domes, food, horses, train. You only need small cash in Peruvian soles for water on Day 1, lunch on Day 5, a drink in Aguas Calientes, and tips. Markets and small shops in Aguas Calientes rarely take cards and never have change for large bills. Get soles in Cusco, ATMs in Aguas Calientes are unreliable.
Insurance
You need real mountain insurance, not basic travel cover. Your policy must cover trekking up to 5,000m, emergency evacuation in the Andes, trip cancellation and train delays. Salkantay permits and Machu Picchu tickets are non refundable by Peruvian law. Make sure rainy season landslides and strikes are covered.
Mandatory Documentation
Bring your original passport that matches your Machu Picchu ticket. Exact same number and name. You will show it at Mollepata checkpoint, to board the train, and at Machu Picchu entrance. A photo or photocopy is not accepted and means no entry and no refund. Carry your train and bus tickets on Day 5 too.
Packing Essentials
You need two climates in one duffel. Freezing at the pass, hot and humid in the jungle, plus Colcamayo Hot Springs on Day 3.
Keep your duffel for horses at 7kg. Carry only essentials in your daypack.
Note: Your daypack inside Machu Picchu must not be bigger than 25L. About 40 x 35 x 20 cm.
- Essential Documents:Original passport mandatory, plus train and bus tickets for Day 5.
- Protection:Sunscreen SPF 50, sunglasses, sun hat for pass, insect repellent for jungle.
- Weather Gear:Waterproof jacket and pants always in daypack, warm down jacket, gloves and beanie for Salkantay Pass at 4,630m.
- Clothing:Moisture wicking base layers, 2 trekking pants, warm layers for nights in domes, quick dry t-shirts for jungle, swimsuit and quick dry towel for Colcamayo Hot Springs.
- Footwear:Broken in waterproof hiking boots with ankle support and 4 pairs trekking socks, sandals or flip flops for domes and hot springs.
- Hydration:Reusable 1.5L water bottle or hydration bladder. We provide boiled water to refill from lunch Day 1.
- Small Extras:Headlamp for early dome mornings and Day 5, power bank, trekking poles with rubber tips recommended.
Pro-Tip: Tripods, selfie sticks, drones and backpacks over 25L are banned inside Machu Picchu. Keep your daypack light and leave big bags in Aguas Calientes.
Questions & Answers
FAQs
Day 1 and 2: Wide mountain trail, rocky, dusty, steep up to Salkantay Pass. Snow possible at the top. Day 3: Steep downhill through cloud forest, muddy and slippery when wet. Day 4: Jungle dirt road and flat along river to Aguas Calientes. Day 5: Stone steps in Machu Picchu. You need waterproof boots with ankle support, not sneakers.
You sleep at 3,900m in Soraypampa for 2 nights, then cross 4,630m at Salkantay Pass, then drop to 2,000m in jungle. Arrive in Cusco 2 full days before. Drink 3 liters water per day, no alcohol Day 1 and 2, coca tea helps. Your guide carries oxygen and checks you at the pass. If you feel headache or nausea, tell your guide immediately.
This tour has 4 climates plus hot springs.
For hiking: Waterproof jacket and pants, thermal base layer, fleece, 3 wicking shirts, 2 trekking pants, 4 hiking socks, broken in waterproof boots, sandals for camp.
For cold: Minus 10C sleeping bag, we provide tent and dome, warm beanie, gloves, buff.
For Colcamayo Hot Springs on Day 3: Swimsuit, quick dry towel, flip flops. This is the part everyone forgets. You will want to swim after the long downhill.
For trail: 25L daypack, headlamp, 1.5L water bottle, power bank, sunscreen SPF 50, sunglasses, trekking poles with rubber tips.
Your duffel max 6kg is carried by horses. Main suitcase stays free in our Cusco office.
Private glass domes at 3,900m with clear roof to see Salkantay and the stars from bed. Inside: proper bed, electric blanket, hot water bottle, private toilet. Shared hot showers and dining dome. It is glamping, not a hotel. It gets very cold outside at night but warm inside. This is night 1 and 2, your best acclimatization.
Natural hot springs near Santa Teresa at 2,000m. Big pools from 30C to 40C in the jungle. On Day 3 afternoon we stop for 1.5 to 2 hours to soak. Perfect for sore legs after Salkantay Pass. Entrance included. Bring swimsuit and towel in your daypack on Day 3.
Maximum 10 travelers. Average 6. Small group means better pace, guide can help each person on the pass, and domes are not crowded.
2 to 3 days in Cusco at 3,400m or Sacred Valley at 2,800m before Day 1. Walk around Cusco city, Rainbow Mountain is too high before Salkantay, do not do it. Sleep well, hydrate, eat light. We do not recommend arriving from Lima the day before.
Your duffel to 6kg is already carried by horses. For Day 2 to Salkantay Pass you can hire a private horse to ride if you feel bad, costs around $80 to $120 and your guide arranges it on the trail. You can also hire extra porter for daypack, tell us at briefing.
All meals from lunch Day 1 to breakfast Day 5 included. Our chef cooks in the domes, hot meals even at 3,900m. Vegetarian, vegan, gluten free available, tell us at booking. Boiled water to refill bottle at every meal. First morning water you buy in Cusco.
Day 5 you have guided tour 2.5 hours in Machu Picchu Circuit 3 and Circuit 1, plus free time. If you want Circuit 2 lower citadel or Huayna Picchu mountain, extra ticket US$55 and US$75, book 3 months ahead. Train back to Cusco in afternoon.
Sky Dome Camps is owned and operated by Sam Travel Corporation, a licensed Peruvian tour operator based in Cusco with full permits for the Salkantay Route and Machu Picchu.
Our domes in Soraypampa are private to us, not shared or rented from another lodge. That means our own team, our own chef, our own horses and our own guides handle you from Cusco to Machu Picchu. All staff are licensed and insured under Peruvian tourism law.
