Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu 6D/5N

Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu 6D/5N

6 Days Starting and ending in Cusco, Peru

Visiting: Cusco, Cuzco, Colcapampa, Santa Teresa, Aguas Calientes, Machu Picchu

Tour operator:

Bamba Travel

Tour code:

58349

Guide Type:

Fully Guided

Group size:

1 - 15

Physical rating:

Easy

Age range:

18-90

Tour operated in:

English

Interests:

Cultural, History

Activities:

Sightseeing

From: $830 (USD)

NB: Prices correct on 18-Jan-2025 but subject to change.

This tour is no longer available, please see similar tours below or send an enquiry

Tour Overview

Embark on a thrilling 6-day, 5-night Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu, a journey that promises both challenge and reward. Traverse snowy high passes and marvel at the breathtaking Andean peaks as you make your way to the iconic Machu Picchu. Starting in Cusco, you'll trek through diverse landscapes, from the high-altitude Soraypampa Camp to the lush jungles near Santa Teresa. Enjoy the comfort of Aguas Calientes before your final ascent to the ancient Incan city. With professional bilingual guides, all necessary transfers, and meals included, this trek offers a small group experience with a maximum of 15 participants. Accommodations range from camping to a 3-star hotel in Aguas Calientes, ensuring a comfortable rest after each day's adventure. Optional activities, such as visiting hot springs or climbing Huayna Picchu, add extra excitement to this unforgettable Peruvian journey.

Highlights

  • A challenging yet worthwhile trek to Machu Picchu.

  • Cross through snowy high passes.

  • Enjoy incredible views of the Andean peaks.

  • Hike up to Laguna de Humantay for stunning mountain views.

  • Trek through the upper jungle with views of waterfalls and tropical plants.

  • Relax in the hot springs of Santa Teresa town.

  • Explore the magnificent city of Machu Picchu in the early morning light.

Itinerary

Expand All

Day 1: Cuzco, Peru

Location: Cusco

Accommodation Name: Hostel/3-star hotel or 4-star hotel

Arrival Day

Today you´re free to arrive at the time that fits you the best. Upon arrival, reach your accommodation, check in and enjoy the rest of the day at leisure!

Day 2: Cuzco - Soraypampa Camp, Peru

Location: Cuzco

Accommodation Name: Soraypampa Camp

Meals Included: Lunch, Dinner

Cuzco to Mollepata to Challacancha, Trek to Soraypampa Camp (3,920m) (L/D)
Today we pick you up between 5:00 - 5:15 am and travel by tourist-class bus to Mollepata (2,900m) where you can stretch your legs and buy snacks. Continue by car to Challacancha where we will make final preparations and double check our equipment. Embark on a 3-hour walk that will take us to Soraypampa (3,920m) where we will have lunch with panoramic views of beautiful snow-capped mountains. Hike up to Laguna de Humantay (approx. 1.5 hours each way) for more incredible views of the Andes mountains and then return to camp for the night. Our first campsite is located at 3,920m and is the highest and coldest campsite of the trip. Take some time to rest up, and enjoy your first night immersed in nature. Have dinner and go to sleep early.

Day 3: Colcapampa Camp, Peru

Location: Colcapampa

Accommodation Name: Challhuay or Colcapampa Camp

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Trek to Challhuay or Colcapampa Camp via High Pass (4,650m) (B/L/D)
We will have breakfast at around 6:00 am and begin our 4-hour walk to the highest pass on this trek (4,650m) located halfway between 2 huge mountains; Salkantay (6,267m) and Humantay (5,900m). (Optional horse rental available to reach high pass for approx. 100 - 120 soles). From the pass, the views of the 2 snow-capped mountains are incredible with a possibility of snow here. After a 2-hour downhill hike, a well-deserved lunch will be served at Huayracpampa, followed by another 3-hour trek to our campsite at Challhuay or Colcapampa as we near the beginning of the high jungle region at 2,900 meters.

Day 4: Santa Teresa Town, Peru

Location: Santa Teresa

Accommodation Name: Santa Teresa Town Camp

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Trek to La Playa & Transfer to Santa Teresa Town (1,700m) (B/L/D)
After breakfast at 6:30 am, we start trekking for the day through the upper jungle crossing the Santa Teresa River and a variety of little brooks. Today we will pass through valleys and have wonderful views of waterfalls, tropical fruits and plants. We will have lunch at La Playa (2,200m) and continue by car to Santa Teresa town (1,700 meters), our camp for the night, with a warmer climate. After a rest, we have the option to visit the hot springs in Santa Teresa town (extra cost) and enjoy the well-deserved soothing water, a real treat after 3 hard days of trekking!

Day 5: Aguas Calientes, Peru

Location: Aguas Calientes

Accommodation Name: 3-star hotel in Aguas Calientes

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Trek to Hydroelectric Station & Aguas Calientes (B/L/D)
After having breakfast at 8:00 am, our last day on the trail will take us from Santa Teresa (1,700m) along a relaxing path for 3 hours to reach the hydroelectric station (1,880m) where a box lunch will be served. From here Aguas Calientes (2,010m) is another 3 hour slight uphill walk where we will finally have time to relax, recharge our batteries and get ready for our visit to Machu Picchu. Dinner at a local traditional restaurant.
*Optional bus transfer from Santa Teresa to the Hydroelectric Station is available for an extra cost.
*Optional train transfer from Hydroelectric Station to Aguas Calientes is available for extra cost.

Day 6: Machu Picchu - Cuzco, Peru

Location: Machu Picchu

Meals Included: Breakfast

Explore Machu Picchu & Return to Cuzco(B)
We will catch one of the first buses (05:30 am) to Machu Picchu (25-minute ride) in order to appreciate the magnificent city in the early morning light as the mist dissipates. A walking tour (approximately 2 hours) is given by your guide and after this you can explore the mysterious city on your own. If you still have energy you can also climb the optional Huayna Picchu Peak inside the archaeological site (to be booked in advance at an extra cost). Take a bus back down to Aguas Calientes. Return by train to Ollantaytambo and take a bus to Cuzco. You will be dropped off late in the day at the Plaza San Francisco. Upon arrival you will need to make your own way to your accommodation.

What's Included

  • Accommodation

    The tour includes 4 nights of accommodation, with options ranging from a hostel, 3-star hotel, or 4-star hotel in Cuzco, camping, and a 3-star hotel in Aguas Calientes.

  • Transport

    Bus and train transfers are included, along with Cuzco accommodation pick-up and all transfers as per the itinerary, including a bus from Ollantaytambo to Cuzco.

  • Activities

    The Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu is included in the tour.

  • Guides

    A professional bilingual guide is provided for the trek and Machu Picchu tour.

  • Extras

    The tour includes the Machu Picchu entrance fee, a foam sleeping mat, an emergency oxygen bottle, a small group experience with a maximum of 15 people and an average of 4, a pre-departure briefing, and horseman and mules to carry cooking and camping equipment plus a total of 5 kilos for each trekker.

What's Not Included

  • Airport Pick-Up/Drop-Off

    Airport pick-up and drop-off are not included; participants need to make their own way.

  • Sleeping Bag

    A sleeping bag is not included in the tour.

  • Other Meals/Drinks

    Meals and drinks not specified in the itinerary are not included.

  • Bottled Water

    Bottled water is not included in the tour.

  • Guide for Bus and Train Transfers

    A guide is not provided for bus and train transfers; these portions are on your own.

  • Tips

    Tips are not included in the tour.

Mode of Transport

Travel conveniently with bus and train transfers, including pick-up from your Cuzco accommodation and all transfers as per the itinerary, ensuring a seamless journey to and from Machu Picchu.

Accommodation

Enjoy a mix of accommodations including a night in a hostel or hotel in Cuzco, camping under the stars, and a comfortable stay in a 3-star hotel in Aguas Calientes.

Check out our Q&As

  • What type of accommodation is provided during the Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu?

    The tour includes 4 nights of accommodation, with options for a hostel, 3-star hotel, or 4-star hotel in Cuzco, camping, and a 3-star hotel in Aguas Calientes.

  • Are meals included in the Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu tour?

    Yes, the tour includes 4 breakfasts, 4 lunches, 4 dinners, and 3 snacks with typical menus.

  • Is there a guide provided during the trek to Machu Picchu?

    Yes, a professional bilingual guide is provided for the trek and the Machu Picchu tour.

  • What is the maximum group size for the Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu?

    The tour offers a small group experience with a maximum of 15 participants and an average of 4.

  • What additional equipment is provided for the trek?

    The tour provides a foam sleeping mat, emergency oxygen bottle, and horseman and mules to carry cooking and camping equipment, plus a total of 5 kilos for each trekker.

  • Are there any optional activities available during the trek?

    Yes, there is an optional visit to the hot springs in Santa Teresa town for an extra cost, and an optional climb of Huayna Picchu Peak inside the Machu Picchu archaeological site, which must be booked in advance at an extra cost.

  • What transportation is included in the tour?

    The tour includes bus and train transfers, Cuzco accommodation pick-up, all transfers as per the itinerary, and a bus from Ollantaytambo to Cuzco.

  • Is there an age limit?

    No! Most of our bamba travellers fall between the ages of 18 - 35, but everyone is young at heart and welcome to come experience the world with us! If you are between the ages of 18 and 118, we invite you to travel with bamba and have the time of your life! Minors must be accompanied by an adult.

  • Who will be my travelling companions on the tour?

    Most of our trips cater to the adventurous independent traveller. In fact, many of our travellers arrive on their own and quickly find that they easily meet like-minded people along the way at their hostels, on transportation, or during activities.

  • Do I need travel insurance?

    We highly recommend purchasing travel insurance for your trip, especially when travelling in developing countries. Bamba does not include travel insurance of any type.Your current medical insurance may cover part of your trip, so it is important for you to become familiar with your current coverage. We recommend purchasing additional travel insurance that provides coverage for medical emergencies, emergency evacuation and repatriation, lost or stolen items and unforeseen cancellations. If you plan to participate in activities such as white-water rafting, trekking, sand-buggy rides, etc please make sure they are included in your policy.

Reviews of this operator

Jonas Nesset(Norway)  

The company is exceptional. When...

Dec 10 2019

The company is exceptional. When I had questions, I always got prompt and professional answers. The excursions that Bamba organized were fantastic! Thank you once again for everything!

Shane Alce(United Kingdom)  

For true explorers....

Aug 12 2019

For true explorers.

Marian Reder(Germany)  

To this day, this is...

Oct 2 2019

To this day, this is the best tour we've ever done together as a couple! The fun activities, great hotels and nice guides worth the money! We were always taken care of and they made sure that we had a good time. This tour is definitely worth taking.

Tanja Ottosen(Denmark)  

The Bamba Team really made...

Jan 9 2020

The Bamba Team really made my journey one of the most memorable experiences of my life! Still so nice and supportive! They handled everything and responded to each question within a few minutes. I wholeheartedly recommend it to everyone. Especially if you want to do a lot of activities and travel to a lot of different places without feeling rushed. They've also helped me with specific issues that weren't covered by the tour, as well as answering general questions. Thank you so much for making my journey so enjoyable!

Braiden Rowe(United States)  

The tour was fantastic; I...

Feb 12 2020

The tour was fantastic; I was able to visit some of Japan's most beautiful locations, and the accommodations were excellent, with convenient access to the city's best attractions. Also, our tour guide was fantastic. I will pick bamba again and recommend the tour to anyone who wants to see Japan while having a good time!!

Aaron Davies(Australia)  

I only have good words...

Oct 23 2019

I only have good words about our trip to Kenya. The entire experience was totally magical and I struggle to say how fantastic it was. We were fortunate enough to have a brilliant vehicle for ourselves, but we had great luck with David for our guide too. He was very knowledgeable, courteous and nice. Thank you for helping to create this fantastic safari experience. I Highly recommend this company.

Matteo Hoffmeister(Germany)  

Bamba Experience has been the...

Jun 5 2019

Bamba Experience has been the best tour guide I've ever had. Every tour has been a thrilling experience. There are so many things to choose from. Bamba has been extremely helpful in providing us with all of the necessary information for our departures and activities! Bamba has made this a simple and enjoyable experience. I'll certainly tell my friends and family about it! Thank you very much, Bamba!!

Melanie Liu Chang(Australia)  

We organized a trip through...

Feb 20 2020

We organized a trip through Thailand, Laos, Vietnam, and Cambodia on the hop-on, hop-off bus. It made the trip so much simpler for us as first-time travelers because we just had to send an email to arrange the bus, which avoided the hassle of looking for the best price and so on! We also had a number of tours included, they were all amazing and saved us the trouble of trying to find the best offers on our own; it also meant we got to see a lot of stuff we wouldn't have seen otherwise. Overall, it was a fantastic experience that I will strongly suggest and use again!

Marius Halvorson(Norway)  

Our Bamba tour of Vietnam...

Jun 25 2019

Our Bamba tour of Vietnam was fantastic. We had a lot of new experiences and all of the help we needed to make this a stress-free vacation. The well-organized accomodation and transportation were excellent. We will certainly use Bamba in the future.

Alexis Helman(Australia)  

I had booked our Uyuni...

Jun 25 2019

I had booked our Uyuni Salt Flats & Desert Adventure 3D/2N (Uyuni to Atacama) tour via an Australian travel agency, but they had made an error and refused to assist us or take responsibility. This was very difficult for us because we wanted to have a stress-free honeymoon. I contacted Bamba and I asked if we could talk on the phone so they made the improvements to our tour reservation that our travel agent declined to make. The quality of service was exceptional and they generously offered to us a complimentary gift because it was our honeymoon. I can't say enough good things about Bamba.

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Friday - Wednesday

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Jun 13, 2025 - Jun 18, 2025
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Friday - Wednesday

Jun 20, 2025 - Jun 25, 2025
$830 (USD)

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Jun 23, 2025 - Jun 28, 2025
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Jun 27, 2025 - Jul 02, 2025
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Monday - Saturday

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Friday - Wednesday

Jul 04, 2025 - Jul 09, 2025
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Monday - Saturday

Jul 07, 2025 - Jul 12, 2025
$830 (USD)

Friday - Wednesday

Jul 11, 2025 - Jul 16, 2025
$830 (USD)

Monday - Saturday

Jul 14, 2025 - Jul 19, 2025
$830 (USD)

Friday - Wednesday

Jul 18, 2025 - Jul 23, 2025
$830 (USD)

Monday - Saturday

Jul 21, 2025 - Jul 26, 2025
$830 (USD)

Friday - Wednesday

Jul 25, 2025 - Jul 30, 2025
$830 (USD)

Monday - Saturday

Jul 28, 2025 - Aug 02, 2025
$830 (USD)

Friday - Wednesday

Aug 01, 2025 - Aug 06, 2025
$830 (USD)

Monday - Saturday

Aug 04, 2025 - Aug 09, 2025
$830 (USD)

Friday - Wednesday

Aug 08, 2025 - Aug 13, 2025
$830 (USD)

Monday - Saturday

Aug 11, 2025 - Aug 16, 2025
$830 (USD)

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Aug 15, 2025 - Aug 20, 2025
$830 (USD)

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Aug 18, 2025 - Aug 23, 2025
$830 (USD)

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Aug 22, 2025 - Aug 27, 2025
$830 (USD)

Monday - Saturday

Aug 25, 2025 - Aug 30, 2025
$830 (USD)

Friday - Wednesday

Aug 29, 2025 - Sep 03, 2025
$830 (USD)

Monday - Saturday

Sep 01, 2025 - Sep 06, 2025
$830 (USD)

Friday - Wednesday

Sep 05, 2025 - Sep 10, 2025
$830 (USD)

Monday - Saturday

Sep 08, 2025 - Sep 13, 2025
$830 (USD)

Friday - Wednesday

Sep 12, 2025 - Sep 17, 2025
$830 (USD)

Monday - Saturday

Sep 15, 2025 - Sep 20, 2025
$830 (USD)

Friday - Wednesday

Sep 19, 2025 - Sep 24, 2025
$830 (USD)

Monday - Saturday

Sep 22, 2025 - Sep 27, 2025
$830 (USD)

Friday - Wednesday

Sep 26, 2025 - Oct 01, 2025
$830 (USD)

Monday - Saturday

Sep 29, 2025 - Oct 04, 2025
$830 (USD)

Friday - Wednesday

Oct 03, 2025 - Oct 08, 2025
$830 (USD)

Monday - Saturday

Oct 06, 2025 - Oct 11, 2025
$830 (USD)

Friday - Wednesday

Oct 10, 2025 - Oct 15, 2025
$830 (USD)

Monday - Saturday

Oct 13, 2025 - Oct 18, 2025
$830 (USD)

Friday - Wednesday

Oct 17, 2025 - Oct 22, 2025
$830 (USD)

Monday - Saturday

Oct 20, 2025 - Oct 25, 2025
$830 (USD)

Friday - Wednesday

Oct 24, 2025 - Oct 29, 2025
$830 (USD)

Monday - Saturday

Oct 27, 2025 - Nov 01, 2025
$830 (USD)

Friday - Wednesday

Oct 31, 2025 - Nov 05, 2025
$830 (USD)

Monday - Saturday

Nov 03, 2025 - Nov 08, 2025
$830 (USD)

Friday - Wednesday

Nov 07, 2025 - Nov 12, 2025
$830 (USD)

Monday - Saturday

Nov 10, 2025 - Nov 15, 2025
$830 (USD)

Friday - Wednesday

Nov 14, 2025 - Nov 19, 2025
$830 (USD)

Monday - Saturday

Nov 17, 2025 - Nov 22, 2025
$830 (USD)

Friday - Wednesday

Nov 21, 2025 - Nov 26, 2025
$830 (USD)

Monday - Saturday

Nov 24, 2025 - Nov 29, 2025
$830 (USD)

Friday - Wednesday

Nov 28, 2025 - Dec 03, 2025
$830 (USD)

Monday - Saturday

Dec 01, 2025 - Dec 06, 2025
$830 (USD)

Friday - Wednesday

Dec 05, 2025 - Dec 10, 2025
$830 (USD)

Monday - Saturday

Dec 08, 2025 - Dec 13, 2025
$830 (USD)

Friday - Wednesday

Dec 12, 2025 - Dec 17, 2025
$830 (USD)

Monday - Saturday

Dec 15, 2025 - Dec 20, 2025
$830 (USD)

Friday - Wednesday

Dec 19, 2025 - Dec 24, 2025
$830 (USD)

Monday - Saturday

Dec 22, 2025 - Dec 27, 2025
$830 (USD)

Friday - Wednesday

Dec 26, 2025 - Dec 31, 2025
$830 (USD)

Monday - Saturday

Dec 29, 2025 - Jan 03, 2026
$830 (USD)

Book with Confidence

  • Free Date Changes

    Bamba Travel allows you to make 2 free date changes, as long as the change is made at least 60 days before the start of the tour.

  • Transfer as credit to Future Tours

    Bamba Travel allows you to transfer existing payments to a future tour to avoid cancellation fees if you can't travel and inform bamba travel, 60 days before departure.

  • Low Deposit

    Bamba Travel requires a minimum deposit of 20% or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 30 days before departure.

  • Cancellation Policy

    We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of bamba travel charges.

    Up to 60 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.

    At 30 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.

    At 15 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.

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