After breakfast at our campsite in Huayracmachay (3,800 m / 12,464 ft), we begin a scenic descent into the lush cloud forest. The dramatic change in landscape is one of the highlights of the Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu, as we leave behind the icy peaks and enter a world of waterfalls, exotic orchids, and tropical wildlife.

We continue downhill through Arrayanniyoc and Chaullay, following the river valley and enjoying the warmer climate. Along the way, you’ll see avocado, banana, and passion fruit plantations, as well as traditional Andean farms where locals still cultivate coffee, corn, and coca leaves.

By midday, we reach La Playa, a small settlement where we will stop for lunch and a short rest. In the afternoon, we hike toward Lucmabamba (2,050 m / 6,725 ft), a charming village surrounded by coffee plantations. Here, you’ll enjoy a Coffee Tour, where local families will share the process of growing, harvesting, and roasting organic coffee. Of course, you’ll also get to taste one of the freshest cups of coffee in Peru.

We spend the night in Lucmabamba, where you can relax and soak in the peaceful atmosphere of the jungle.

We start the day with an early breakfast before beginning a moderate 3.5-hour ascent through lush tropical forest. This scenic trail leads us to the Inca site of Llactapata (2,700 m / 8,856 ft), a fascinating archaeological complex located on a ridge facing Machu Picchu. From here, you will enjoy your first breathtaking view of Machu Picchu in the distance – an unforgettable moment of the Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu.

After exploring Llactapata with a guided tour, we descend for about 2.5 hours toward Hidroelectrica, where we stop for lunch. Surrounded by green valleys and waterfalls, this section of the trail offers a mix of history and nature at its best.

In the afternoon, at around 3:00 p.m., we board the train for a scenic 40-minute ride to Aguas Calientes, the gateway to Machu Picchu. Upon arrival, you will check in at your accommodation and enjoy a well-deserved dinner at a local restaurant, preparing for the highlight of your journey the next day.

After an early breakfast at your hotel, we take the first bus (around 5:30 a.m.) up the winding road to Machu Picchu to witness the magical sunrise over the ancient citadel. Upon arrival, your guide will lead a 2-hour walking tour, exploring the most important temples, terraces, and ceremonial sites of this Wonder of the World.

For those who have booked the optional Machu Picchu Mountain hike (ticket not included), the ascent begins at 10:00 a.m. If you prefer not to hike, you will have additional free time to explore Machu Picchu at your own pace, take photos, or simply soak in the mystical atmosphere.

Later, we return by bus to Aguas Calientes, where you will board the Expedition Train to Ollantaytambo. From there, a private vehicle will take you back to Cusco, with drop-off at your hotel. Arrival time in Cusco depends on your train schedule.

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The Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu is rated as a moderate to challenging hike, recommended for travelers with a good fitness level and a sense of adventure. You don’t need to be a professional athlete, but you should be prepared for long days of hiking in high-altitude terrain.

Expect to walk an average of 6–8 hours per day, crossing uneven trails, steep ascents, and high mountain passes that reach up to 4,600 m (15,100 ft). A reasonable level of endurance from activities such as hiking, cycling, or running will make the trek more enjoyable.

Spending at least 2 days in Cusco prior to the trek is strongly recommended to acclimatize to the altitude. With basic preparation, determination, and the support of professional guides, most travelers successfully complete the Salkantay Trek and find it to be one of the most rewarding adventures in Peru.

The main difference between the 4-day and 5-day versions of the Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu lies in the pace of the hike and the experiences included.

• 5-Day Salkantay Trek:
  This is the most complete and popular option. The pace is more relaxed, giving you extra time to enjoy the stunning landscapes and cultural experiences. It includes a coffee tour in Lucmabamba, more time in the cloud forest, and a deeper immersion into local culture before arriving at Machu Picchu.
• 4-Day Salkantay Trek:
  This shorter itinerary is designed for travelers with limited time. It requires longer hiking days and skips the coffee tour and some intermediate stops. While still spectacular, it is more physically demanding and faster-paced.

Both options end with a guided tour of Machu Picchu, but the 5-day trek offers a more balanced, cultural, and less rushed experience, whereas the 4-day trek focuses on reaching the Inca citadel in a shorter time.

The best time to hike the Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu is during the dry season, which runs from May to September. These months offer the clearest skies, the most stable weather, and the best trail conditions—perfect for enjoying the breathtaking views. However, it’s also the busiest season with more trekkers on the route.

The rainy season, from November to March, brings lush green landscapes and fewer crowds, but the weather is more unpredictable, with a higher chance of rain and muddy trails.

April and October are considered shoulder months, offering a great balance of good weather and fewer travelers.

In short: choose the dry season if you want the best hiking conditions, or the rainy season if you prefer fewer people and don’t mind a more adventurous experience.

Your safety is our top priority on the Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu. Our professional mountain guides are trained in high-altitude first aid and carry a complete emergency kit, including supplemental oxygen.

If you feel unwell or cannot continue the hike, there are evacuation options to nearby communities or alternative transportation available at certain points along the route. Your guide will carefully assess your condition and make the best decision to ensure your well-being.

In most cases, trekkers only need rest, hydration, or basic assistance to continue. However, if necessary, arrangements can be made for transport to a medical facility.

We strongly recommend spending 2–3 days acclimatizing in Cusco before starting the trek and having travel insurance that covers high-altitude trekking. This ensures peace of mind and a safe, enjoyable adventure.