Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu image
Operated by G Adventures

Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu

From
Price on request
Duration
8 days
Countries
Peru
Activity
challenging

The adventure

Salkantay has been dubbed the most spectacular peak in the Peruvian Andes. On this trip, you’ll trek in the shadows of this impressive mountain, interact with its inhabitants and explore its forgotten ruins. You’ll arrive at Santa Teresa – the backdoor of Machu Picchu – where you’ll catch the train to Aguas Calientes for an early-morning visit to Machu Picchu.

At a glance

Duration
8 days
Route
Cusco → Cusco
Countries
Peru
Activity level
challenging
Style
Active & Multi-Sport, Culture & History, Rail Journeys, Trekking & Hiking
Group size
Ask
Flights
Not included
Solo travellers
Welcome

Where you'll go

Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu image

Day by day

Overlooking a small village in a Peruvian valley with a cloudy sky backdrop.
Your journey through

Peru

Day 1Arrival dayArrivalArrive Cusco at any time. There are no planned activities so check into the hotel and enjoy the city. Our best advice for exploring Cusco is to wear a comfortable pair of shoes, arm yourself with a city map, and set off to explore!
Arrive Cusco at any time. There are no planned activities so check into the hotel and enjoy the city. Our best advice for exploring Cusco is to wear a comfortable pair of shoes, arm yourself with a city map, and set off to explore!
Day 2Full-day guided tour of the Sacred Valley…CuscoTravel with our local guide through the Sacred Valley of the Incas. Visit a G Adventures-supported women's weaving co-op, the impressive Pisac ruins and the colourful artisan market (market days only). The day trip finishes in the picturesque village of Ollantaytambo, site of another large Inca ruin. Visit Huchuy Qosco, an indigenous village previously bypassed by the tourism industry, now running the G Adventures-supported Sacred Valley Community Restaurant and tour in their own village. After touring the site return to Cusco for the night.
View of brick buildings densely packed on a hillside, showcasing urban architecture.Cusco
Travel with our local guide through the Sacred Valley of the Incas. Visit a G Adventures-supported women's weaving co-op, the impressive Pisac ruins and the colourful artisan market (market days only). The day trip finishes in the picturesque village of Ollantaytambo, site of another large Inca ruin. Visit Huchuy Qosco, an indigenous village previously bypassed by the tourism industry, now running the G Adventures-supported Sacred Valley Community Restaurant and tour in their own village. After touring the site return to Cusco for the night.
Map showing Cusco
Day 3Transfer to the start of the trail…Machu Picchu
Stunning aerial view of the historic Machu Picchu in the Andes mountains, showcasing its ancient architecture and lush surroundings.Machu Picchu
Transfer to the start of the trail and begin the Salkantay Trek. Stunning views and Inca ruins fill the days as the hike past the striking peaks of Salkantay, Humantay, and Ausangate, among others. Several high passes are traversed the highest point reaching 4,600m (15,092 ft) before descending into valleys nestled in the mountains. Nights are spent camping under the stars. Enjoy the spectacular mountain scenery and breathtaking views as the trek descends from the heights of the Andes to the lush subtropics surrounding Machu Picchu.
Map showing Machu Picchu
Day 4During the second day of the Salkantay Trek…
During the second day of the Salkantay Trek reach the highest point of the trek and enjoy the breathtaking views of Umantay and Apu Salkantay.
Day 5Continue the trek
Continue the trek, passing through the town of Collpabamba en route to Lucmabamba.
Day 6The final day of trekking leads…
The final day of trekking leads to the town of Santa Teresa. Catch the train in the afternoon to Aguas Calientes.
Day 7Enjoy a guided tour of Machu PicchuRise early to take advantage of viewing Machu Picchu in the early morning light. This is the best time to view the 'Lost City of the Incas'. Join the local guide for a detailed interpretation of the site and Inca history without the pressure of other tour groups that arrive at midday. Later in the afternoon return by train to Ollantaytambo and transfer by van to Cusco, arriving in the evening.
Stunning aerial view of the historic Machu Picchu in the Andes mountains, showcasing its ancient architecture and lush surroundings.Machu Picchu
Rise early to take advantage of viewing Machu Picchu in the early morning light. This is the best time to view the 'Lost City of the Incas'. Join the local guide for a detailed interpretation of the site and Inca history without the pressure of other tour groups that arrive at midday. Later in the afternoon return by train to Ollantaytambo and transfer by van to Cusco, arriving in the evening.
Map showing Machu Picchu
Day 8Departure dayDepartureDepart at any time.
Depart at any time.

Discover Peru

A glimpse of the destination you'll explore.

Breathtaking view of snow-capped Andes mountains under blue skies in Cusco, Peru.
Captivating and rugged mountain landscape under bright daylight, showcasing natural beauty.
A breathtaking aerial view of the sunset over mountains and valleys in Cusco, Peru.
Explore the breathtaking Andes mountains in Cusco, Peru with dramatic skies and rugged terrain.
Stunning mountain landscape in Pajchanta, Peru, showcasing rolling hills and clouds.
Operated by G Adventures

A TripFinder-trusted operator. We compare the trip and handle your booking with a real advisor — you travel under the operator's terms.

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