The Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu 5 Days is our most comprehensive itinerary, designed for travelers who want to see it all without rushing. Over five days, you will traverse every ecosystem the Andes has to offer—from the frozen Salkantay Pass to the tropical coffee plantations of the high Amazon. With stays in our exclusive Skydomes and a restorative afternoon at the Cocalmayo Hot Springs, this is the definitive Salkantay experience.
We depart Cusco for the trailhead at Challacancha. A moderate 3-hour trek leads us to our first luxury basecamp. In the aftenoon explore the Humantay Lake.
Today we conquer the Salkantay Pass (4,650m). We also take an exclusive side trip to the turquoise Salkantay Lake, a hidden gem rarely visited by standard tours.
We trade the snow for the jungle. Hike through lush orchards of cacao, avocado, and passionfruit.
Trek along a remote section of the original Inca Trail to the Llaqtapata Ruins. This high ridge provides a unique, “eye-level” view of Machu Picchu from across the valley.
The final reward. We take an early bus for a comprehensive 2-hour guided tour of the Machu Picchu Citadel. Return to Cusco via the scenic train and private transport.
Transportation & Logistics
Access & Discovery
Accommodations & Mountain Dining
Porterage & Safety
This trek is considered moderate, with a well-paced itinerary spread over 5 days.
You’ll cross the Salkantay Pass (4,600 m / 15,090 ft), but the additional days allow for shorter hiking distances, better acclimatization, and more recovery time along the route.
No technical experience is required, but a good level of fitness and some hiking experience will help you fully enjoy the journey.
Over 5 days, you’ll experience a wide range of climates, so packing smart is key:
Your main duffel is carried by the support team, so you can hike comfortably with just your daily essentials.
Groups are limited to a maximum of 10 travelers.
This ensures a more personalized experience, smoother pacing on the trail, and consistent support from your guide throughout the journey.
Even with a gradual itinerary, proper acclimatization is essential.
We recommend spending at least 2 to 3 days in Cusco or the Sacred Valley before starting the trek. This will help your body adjust to the altitude and significantly improve your overall comfort and performance.
Hydration, light meals, and good rest beforehand are strongly recommended.
Yes—you can hire a private porter for additional comfort.
While your main duffel is already carried by the support team, a private porter can assist with extra personal items or reduce the weight of your daypack.
This is a great option if you want to enjoy the trek at a more relaxed and comfortable pace.
Yes—SkyDome Camps operates fully legally and with all required permits.
As part of the Sam Travel Corporation, we meet all official regulations required to operate trekking routes to Machu Picchu. Our team combines extensive local expertise with a strong focus on safety, organization, and high-quality service.
This ensures a seamless and well-managed experience from start to finish.
YOUR ADVENTURE. OUR EXPERTISE.
Guest Reviews
Real experiences from travelers who slept under the Andean sky
I never thought I could sleep in a luxury bed while staring at the Milky Way through a transparent dome. The Salkantay glacier right in front of you at sunrise — absolutely unreal. Worth every penny.
SkyDomeCamps - Sky DomeWe did the full Salkantay Trek and stayed at the dome on night two. After a hard day of hiking, coming back to a real bed, hot shower and that view of the mountain? Nothing compares to that.
SkyDomeCamps - Salkantay TrekI have camped across Patagonia and Nepal but nothing matched this. The dome is warm, beautifully designed and the silence at 4,600m is something else entirely. I woke up at 3am just to stare at the stars.
SkyDomeCamps - Sky Dome
