Private Salkantay Trek 5 Days to Machu Picchu

Full itinerary

Day 1: Cusco – Soraypampa – Humantay Lake – Salkantaypampa (Private Camp)

5:00 a.m. – Hotel Pick-Up and Drive to Soraypampa
Your adventure begins with a private early morning pick-up from your hotel in Cusco. Enjoy a scenic drive through the Sacred Valley, stopping for breakfast in Mollepata, before continuing to Soraypampa (12,631 feet/3,850 meters), the starting point of the trek.

From Soraypampa, start a short but steep hike to Humantay Lake (13,780 feet/4,200 meters), a stunning turquoise lake nestled at the base of Humantay Mountain. After enjoying the breathtaking views and taking in the serene surroundings, descend back to Soraypampa for lunch.

After lunch, continue your hike to Salkantaypampa, where your private camp awaits. Along the way, you’ll enjoy views of Salkantay Mountain and the surrounding snow-capped peaks. Settle into your tent, enjoy a warm dinner prepared by your private chef, and rest under the stars.

• Elevation: 13,800 feet (4,200 meters)
• Hiking Distance: 7 miles (11 kilometers)
• Difficulty Level: Moderate
• Overnight: Private Tent at Salkantaypampa

Day 2: Salkantaypampa – Salkantay Pass – Wayracpunku (Private Camp)

6:00 a.m. – Breakfast and Start of the Ascent
Begin the day with a hearty breakfast as you prepare for the most challenging day of the trek. From Salkantaypampa, start the ascent to the Salkantay Pass.

After a steep climb, reach the Salkantay Pass (15,213 feet/4,638 meters), the highest point of the trek. Take in panoramic views of the majestic Salkantay Mountain and the surrounding glaciers. This is the perfect place to rest, take photos, and enjoy the dramatic Andean landscapes.

After celebrating your achievement at the summit, begin your descent toward Wayracpunku (12,795 feet/3,900 meters). Along the way, you’ll pass through diverse ecosystems, from alpine terrain to cloud forests. Enjoy lunch along the trail before arriving at your private campsite.

Arrive at Wayracpunku in the afternoon and settle into your private camp. Relax and enjoy a gourmet dinner as you take in the tranquil surroundings.

• Elevation: 12,795 feet (3,900 meters)
• Hiking Distance: 10 miles (16 kilometers)
• Difficulty Level: Challenging
• Overnight: Private Tent at Wayracpunku

Day 3: Wayracpunku – Cloud Forest – Llucmabamba (Private Camp)

After breakfast, continue your trek through lush cloud forests and warmer, tropical climates. Today’s hike offers a dramatic change in scenery as you descend further into the valleys below.

The trail winds through lush vegetation, passing rivers, waterfalls, and a variety of Andean wildlife, including colorful birds and butterflies. You’ll also encounter plantations of coffee, bananas, and avocados along the way.

Arrive at the village of Llucmabamba for lunch. Afterward, you’ll visit a local coffee farm, where you’ll learn about the traditional coffee-growing process and enjoy a freshly brewed cup of local coffee.

Spend the afternoon relaxing at your private camp in Llucmabamba, or take a short walk to explore the surrounding area. Dinner will be served at camp, and you’ll enjoy a peaceful night under the stars.

• Elevation: 6,890 feet (2,100 meters)
• Hiking Distance: 8 miles (13 kilometers)
• Difficulty Level: Moderate
• Overnight: Private Tent at Llucmabamba

Day 4: Llucmabamba – Llaqtapata – Aguas Calientes (Hotel)

5:00 a.m. – Breakfast and Hike to Llaqtapata
After breakfast, begin your ascent to the Llaqtapata Pass (8,694 feet/2,650 meters). The hike is moderately challenging, but the reward is a stunning view of Machu Picchu from a unique vantage point at the Llaqtapata ruins.

Visit the Llaqtapata ruins, an ancient Inca site that is often missed by visitors to the region. Your guide will explain the historical significance of the site, and you’ll enjoy spectacular views of both Machu Picchu and the surrounding valleys.

After exploring Llaqtapata, descend through the lush jungle to the Hydroelectric Station, where you’ll have lunch. Afterward, either continue hiking or take the scenic train to Aguas Calientes.

Upon arrival in Aguas Calientes, check into your hotel and enjoy the evening at your leisure. You can explore the town, visit the hot springs, or simply relax in preparation for the next day’s visit to Machu Picchu.

• Elevation: 6,561 feet (2,000 meters)
• Hiking Distance: 10 miles (16 kilometers)
• Difficulty Level: Moderate
• Overnight: Hotel in Aguas Calientes

Day 5: Machu Picchu Exploration and Return to Cusco

5:30 a.m. – Early Bus Ride to Machu Picchu
After an early breakfast, take the bus up to Machu Picchu, arriving before the crowds to watch the sunrise over the Lost City of the Incas.

Your guide will lead you on a comprehensive tour of Machu Picchu, exploring its temples, terraces, and plazas. You’ll learn about the history and significance of this iconic site, a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the New Seven Wonders of the World.

Optional Hike: After your exploration of Machu Picchu, for those who booked in advance, you can opt for an additional hike to Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain for panoramic views of the entire citadel and surrounding landscapes.

After your exploration, take the bus back to Aguas Calientes for lunch (not included). You’ll have free time to explore the town before your train departs for Cusco.

In the afternoon, board the train back to Ollantaytambo, where a private transfer will take you back to your hotel in Cusco, marking the end of your unforgettable private Salkantay Trek.

• Elevation at Machu Picchu: 7,972 feet (2,430 meters)
• Difficulty Level: Easy to Moderate
• Overnight: Cusco