Salkantay Trail Google Maps

The Salkantay Trek has established itself as the definitive alternative to the Classic Inca Trail, recognized by the prestigious National Geographic magazine as one of the 25 best treks in the world.

This journey offers a perfect harmony between adventure, culture, and untouched nature. With towering snow-capped peaks, lush tropical rainforests, and fascinating biodiversity, it is the ideal cutting-edge experience for travelers seeking authenticity and privacy. Being a less congested route than the traditional Inka Trail, it allows for a much more intimate connection with the Andean environment.

Since ancient times, the Quechua and pre-Inca peoples have worshipped this mountain under the name Apu Salkantay (God Protector). Located in the Vilcabamba mountain range, this giant of rock and snow rises to 6,271 m. (20,574 ft), crowning itself as the highest point in its range and the second most important in the Cusco region. Standing beside it is the Humantay peak, with an altitude of 5,917 m. (19,412 ft), famous for its turquoise waters.

Unlike other routes that focus on archaeological remains, the Salkantay hike to Machu Picchu stands out for its raw natural beauty. The journey leads you around the base of the majestic Salkantay Mountain, taking you through desolate high-mountain landscapes and vibrant, warm jungles. This offers a unique geographical contrast before culminating in the majesty of Machu Picchu.

Salkantay trek itinerary

Day 1: Cusco - Mollepata - Soraypampa Salkantay trek - Soraypampa

At 04:30 a.m. We will pick you up from your hotel to leave towards the town of Mollepata at 2 800 m. (9 116 feet). This is a beautiful scenic trip through the valley of Limatambo where you can take pictures of the Apurimac valley. When we get to Mollepata we will have breakfast, it is in this place where we will meet the muleteers and animals to start our hike to Salkantay and we will start walking towards Soraypampa (3 825 m.s. or 12,371 ft.). After 4 hours of walking we will have lunch in the town of Sayllapata, and then we will continue to our first camp in Soraypampa. Dinner and overnight.

Day 2: Soraypampa - Wayracpampa - Colpapampa open salkantay

This day we woke up very early 5:00 am and we will walk approximately 2 hours to reach the Salkantay pass (4,650 meters above sea level or 15 091 feet), where we will appreciate the Salkantay snow capped mountains, such as the Humantay mountain on the right and Tucarhuay to the left side. Once here, we will observe the snowy Salkantay (6 271 m or 20 574 ft) and the magnificent view of snow avalanches, then we will pass through spectacular places of the vast Andean territory that lead to the gradual descent of our walk through the cloud forest , where vegetation and wildlife will become abundant. Camp in Colpapampa (2,900m or 9,514ft). Dinner and overnight.

Day 3: Colpapampa - Sawayaco Beach - Santa Teresa

After breakfast, we will start our walk at approximately 06:30 am through the high forest and we will cross the Lluskamayo river and different streams and waterfalls, we will go through different valleys, and we will be able to observe the endemic flora and fauna of the region, more the amazing view of waterfalls. After 6 hours of walking we will arrive at Playa - Sahuayaco (2 250 m. or 7,381 ft.) For lunch; Then we will take the bus that will take us to Santa Teresa (1 900 m or 6 233 ft). Place where we will camp and then relax in the thermal baths of Cocalmayo (optional).

Day 4: Santa Teresa - Hidroelectrica - Aguas Calientes

After breakfast, we will begin our hike through the Santa Teresa Valley toward Hidroeléctrica, where we will have lunch. We will then continue our walk accompanied by a majestic view of Machu Picchu and the primary sacred mountains of the Incas, such as Huayna Picchu and Putucusi. After a total of 6 hours of hiking, we will arrive at the town of Aguas Calientes (1,900 m. or 6,233 ft), where we will stay in a comfortable hotel before the great visit the following day.

Day 5: Aguas Calientes - Machu Picchu - Ollantaytambo - Cusco

We will have our breakfast at 4:00 am; then we will start our walk towards the citadel of Machu Picchu. After registering your ticket we will start the tour of the Inca citadel for about two hours. After that, you will have free time to climb the Huayna Picchu (optional) and visit the different sites recommended by our guide, such as: the Inti Punku and the mountain of Machu Picchu. Finally, we will return by train to the city of Ollantaytambo, and then by car to Cusco.

Salkantay Trail Google Maps

When is the best time to hike to Machu Picchu?

The best season is during the dry season, which covers the months April to the end of September. In October the rains begin and you can find Machu Picchu covered by clouds. If you travel in June, we recommend you to book the Inti Raymi 2026 Tour that takes place in June 24th, and also hike the Palcoyo Mountain Tour, which is an incredible Rainbow Mountain located in the Andes.

Alternative Treks to Salkantay Trek

Many are the routes that take you to Machu Picchu, but none is like the Inca Trail Tours, the most famous pedestrian path in the Americas. After flying from the capital of Perú, Lima, you will arrive in Cusco to walk for four days along a path through forests and dense fog, millenary stone steps and discovering the ruins of ancient fortifications and Inca cities, and all the time enjoying majestic views.

If you want to visit Machu Picchu, we recommend you to book your Machu Picchu Ticket in advance, so you will enjoy your Vacation in Machu Picchu without any problem.