Salkantay Premium Private Trek to Machu Picchu 5 Days 4 Nights
Overview
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5 days
Mobile ticket
Experience the Salkantay Trek in the most exclusive way possible. This 5-day private journey is designed for travelers who want more than just a trek, it’s a fully personalized mountain experience with a dedicated guide, private service, and carefully selected premium camps.
Unlike standard group departures, this experience gives you total flexibility, personalized pacing, and full attention from your team. From the turquoise waters of Humantay Lake to the breathtaking Salkantay Pass and the unique view of Machu Picchu from Llactapata, every moment is crafted around you.
You’ll enjoy tranquility, comfort, and seamless logistics from start to finish, including an expert guided tour of Machu Picchu. If you’re looking for adventure without crowds, stress, or compromises, this is the ultimate way to experience the Andes.
Additional Info
Service animals allowed
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Not recommended for pregnant travelers
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Travelers should have a high level of physical fitness
It's recommended to arrive in Cusco at least 2 days before the trek to adjust to the altitude.
Spots at Machu Picchu sell out quickly. Book this trip at least five months in advance to secure spaces.
Passport name, number, expiry and country is required at time of booking for all participants
Please ensure your passport is up to date and ready for use on your travel day
Children aged 12 and over may participate and must be accompanied by a responsible adult at all times.
Keep in mind this hike is a challenging trek. travellers have to be in good health and physical shape to fully enjoy every moment of this adventure.
Vegetarian or, vegan options are available, please advise at time of booking if required
What To Expect
Cusco - Mollepata - Challacancha - Sky Camp - Humantay Lake
Accommodations
Overnight at the Sky Camp
Food and Drinks
BREAKFAST
Breakfast
LUNCH
Lunch
DINNER
Dinner
Cusco
We will pick you up at your hotel in the historic center around 5:00 a.m. to travel two hours to Mollepata
Mollepata
In Mollepata, you will enjoy an energy-packed breakfast.
Then we continue to Challacancha, the starting point of the hike. Here you will meet the local team that will accompany you throughout the experience.
You will begin a 3-hour hike to Soraypampa (3,900 m / 12,795 ft), where our exclusive Sky Camp is located. The 7 km / 4.35 mile route winds through glacial valleys and an ancient Inca canal that is still in use.
Upon arrival, you will have time to rest and enjoy a delicious lunch.
Humantay Lake
In the afternoon, you will hike to the impressive Humantay Lake (4,200 m / 13,780 ft), a 3 km / 1.86 mile stretch that takes approximately 3 hours round trip. You will enjoy its turquoise views as you connect with the energy of the Andes.
Back at camp, a comforting dinner and a unique night under the starry sky await you, with the imposing Apu Salkantay in front of your panoramic igloo.
Soraypampa - Abra Salkantay - Huayracmachay - Chaullay - Collpapampa
Accommodations
Overnight at Mountain Sky View Camp
Food and Drinks
BREAKFAST
Breakfast
LUNCH
Lunch
DINNER
Dinner
Today you will wake up with the first rays of light and a comforting cup of coca tea, followed by a full breakfast.
Then you will begin a 2-hour horseback ride to Abra Salkantay (4,630 m / 15,190 ft), the highest point on the route. This section, without horses, is usually demanding, so the horseback ride reduces the effort and allows you to better enjoy the landscape. At the top, you will be able to appreciate mystical views of glaciers, Andean mountains, and the imposing Salkantay mountain (6,271 m / 20,574 ft), the second highest in Cusco and considered an Apu (Inca god).
After some free time for photos, we will begin the descent to Huayramachay (3,850 m / 12,631 ft), where a hearty lunch awaits you.
Colcapampa
You will continue downhill, leaving the snow-capped mountains behind and entering the cloud forest, full of vegetation and wildlife. After hiking 9.5 km / 5.9 miles for approximately 3.5 hours, you will arrive at Collpapampa
In Collpapampa, where our exclusive Mountain Sky View Campsite is located. In the evening, you will enjoy a hearty dinner before resting in a warmer environment.
Collpapampa - La Playa - Lucmabamba - Cocalmayo - Sacred Jungle Lodge
Accommodations
Overnight at the Sacred Jungle Lodge
Food and Drinks
BREAKFAST
Breakfast
LUNCH
Lunch
DINNER
Dinner
We will start the day at 6:00 a.m. with a nutritious breakfast before beginning the hike to the Santa Teresa Valley.
Santa Teresa
The trail is mostly downhill and offers views of rivers, waterfalls, orchids, and coffee, banana, and avocado plantations. If you pay attention, you might spot the Cock-of-the-Rock, Peru's national bird.
Upon arrival at Zona Propiedad, a vehicle will be waiting to take us to La Playa to visit an organic coffee farm where you will learn about the entire production process, from bean to export.
After this activity, we will continue our journey to Lucmabamba (2,000 m / 6,562 ft) to enjoy a delicious lunch and settle into our exclusive Sacred Jungle Lodge camp.
Banos Termales de Cocalmayo
In the afternoon, you can explore the area or visit the Cocalmayo hot springs, ideal for relaxing in their warm natural pools.
Upon returning to the camp, you can enjoy a delicious dinner and rest surrounded by the harmonious sounds of the jungle.
Lucmabamba - Llactapata - Ahobamba - Hydroelectric Plant - Aguas Calientes
Accommodations
Hotel in Aguas Calientes
Food and Drinks
BREAKFAST
Breakfast
LUNCH
Lunch
DINNER
Dinner
After a hearty breakfast, we will begin our hike along a section of the original Inca Trail.
Mirador de Llactapata
We will ascend for two hours to Llactapata (2,700 m / 8,858 ft), an archaeological viewpoint with spectacular views of the Santa Teresa Valley and a first panoramic view of Machu Picchu and Huayna Picchu. Your guide will tell you about Inca history while you capture unforgettable photos.
We will then descend for an hour and a half to Ahobamba, where you will enjoy a local lunch. We will continue for another half hour to Hidroeléctrica (1,800 m / 5,906 ft), where you will pass by a 250-meter artificial waterfall that supplies energy to much of Cusco.
From here, we will board the train to Aguas Calientes, a journey with breathtaking scenery.
Aguas Calientes
Upon arrival, you will enjoy dinner at an exclusive restaurant and rest in a comfortable hotel before the big day.
Aguas Calientes - Machu Picchu - Ollantaytambo - Cusco
Food and Drinks
BREAKFAST
Breakfast
LUNCH
Lunch
Aguas Calientes
We start the day early with breakfast and board one of the first buses to Machu Picchu to avoid the crowds.
Machupicchu
Once at the citadel, your guide will take you to the most important temples, terraces, palaces, and ceremonial enclosures during a two-hour guided tour. Afterwards, you will have a short amount of free time to take pictures. If you booked the ascent to Huayna Picchu (2,720 m / 8,924 ft) or Machu Picchu Mountain (3,000 m / 9,843 ft), we will re-enter the site to complete the experience.
Aguas Calientes
Later, we will return to Aguas Calientes, where you will have free time to have lunch and buy souvenirs.
Then you will board the Vistadome panoramic train to Ollantaytambo, enjoying spectacular views along the way.
Ollantaytambo
Upon arrival, our private transportation will be waiting to take you back to your hotel in Cusco.
Cusco
We’ll drop you off at your hotel so you can relax and rest after your journey.
Options
With Huchuy Picchu Mountain
Huchuy Picchu Mountain Ticket Pickup included
Salkantay Premium Private Trek to Machu Picchu -5 Days / 4 Nights
Pickup included
With Huayna Picchu Mountain
Huayna Picchu Mountain Ticket Pickup included
With Machu Picchu Mountain
Machu Picchu Mountain Ticket Pickup included
What‘s Included
Walkie-talkies, oxygen, and first aid kit available at all times
Pre-departure briefing
Hotel pickup and drop-off
Experienced Mountain Guide
1 night in a superior 3-star hotel at Aguas Calientes
Entrance to Machu Picchu (Circuit 2 for 5-month bookings; if unavailable, Circuit 3, then Circuit 1)
Basic hiking equipment: Sleeping bag, trekking poles, backpack cover, and hand towel.
All private transport and transfers during the tour
Aguas Calientes - Ollantaytambo tourist train (PeruRail Vistadome Observatory)
Cultural immersion at a local coffee farm
An emergency horse available from Soraypampa to Abra Salkantay
Private Camping Facilities & Equipment
Entry fees to Salkantay Trek, Humantay lake, and Cocalmayo Hot Springs
Water, Tea Time, and daily snacks on the trail
Transportation of personal belongings
Expert chef, porters, and horsemen
Personal duffel bag (up to 10 kg / 22 lb) for your travel gear
Train Transfer from Hidroelectrica to Aguas Calientes
Round-trip bus between Aguas Calientes - Machu Picchu
3 nights camping accommodation (Sky Camp, Mountain Sky View, Sacred Jungle Lodge)
Optional horseback ride from Soraypampa to Humantay Lake (Day 1)(paid on-site to local providers)
Clothing and personal hiking equipment
Travel Insurance (Recommended)
Gratuities for the staff (Optional)
Dinner in Cusco (Day 5)
Pickup points
Select a pickup point
Cancellation Policy
All sales are final. No refund is available for cancellations.
Reviews
24 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
A proper immersion into Inca history and culture with Carlos "The Mountain King"
P2352MWpeterp,Jun 10, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00The 5 day tour was a physical vhallenge but easily one of the most rewarding experiences once complete. Our tour guide, Carlos "The Mountian King" was so supportive, friendly and knowledgeable that we got to really immerse ourselves in Peruvian & Incs history and culture, culminating in a tour of Machu Picchu. If you want to challenge yourself, deep dive into Peruvian culture and make great friends along the way, I'd definitely recommend booking a tour with Salkantay trekking (and ask to be put in Carlos "The Mountain King"s group.)
10/10 trek with Carlos the Mountain King
M916AGlenat,Jun 10, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00We had an amazing experience trekking through Peru with Carlos! We experienced five days of organised, planned trekking with great food, prepared by our chef, and assistance with all of our belongings. The accommodation was incredible and something we will remember forever. Carlos was the best possible tour guide- he taught us so much about the history of the region, the ways of local people, the flora and fauna surrounding on the track, and mostly kept everyone motivated throughout a challenging hike. The chefs prepared us amazing food for breakfast, lunch and dinner, and we were provided snacks daily. We really didn’t have to think about anything! Highly recommend this tour
So so good
anguss531,Jun 8, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00So good, I’d highly recommend the 5 night premium option. And definitely this company. The accom is epic and 5 days is right amount for the trek. Anthony was our guide 10/10 experience thanks to him. The food is also unreal the whole time.
Trip of a life time!
madisonr355,Jun 7, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00This was the trip of a lifetime! Anthony (Antoine) our guide was great. He provided a lot of knowledge about the history of Peru, and the culture. He was able to identify every bird that we came across, and was able to share with his binoculars so we could see. We felt very safe the entire hike. Salkanaty Trekking did a great job organizing the entire trip. Jose Louis was our horse man, and he showed up every day with a smile. Our two chefs, Wilmer and Victor, prepared the most delicious meals every day. I am amazed at what they were able to create for us. Pictures do not do it justice. If you are considering signing up for this trip, do it! And request Anthony/Antoine for your guide!
Lifetime Experience
C7043LEsandrav,Jun 5, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Every aspect of our trip was fantastic. Guido #Guidotheguide provided a phenomenal experience from assessing our abilities and modifying the experiences accordingly. Through excellent English skills he shared aspects of history and lifestyle which helped us gain an appreciation for Peruvian culture. Our chef Paul prepared delicious traditional gourmet meals which were fabulously presented. Finally our accommodation was outstanding - the various domes and amenities were incredible. Loved this trip!
Exceeded Expectations in Peru
Jerry T,Jun 2, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00We just finished the 5 day Salkantay Trek with a premium package from Salkantay Trekking in Cusco, Peru. We also added on tour days in Cusco before and after the trek. It was an amazing trip! Salkantay Trekking was very helpful and responsive through the reservation process, and they take care of every detail the entire trip. We had a wonderful tour guide, Javier Valle H. He made the time in the trail extra special. He was very organized, friendly, and informative. He also helped us a lot when one in our party had a knee injury and had to use a car to skip portions of the trail. The accommodations on the trail and the food exceeded our expectations! We had a personal chef for our group who made delicious meals and fully accommodated our celiac disease food restrictions. We fully recommend Salkantay Trekking!
An unforgettable experience!!!
Venture24734580536,May 31, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Juan De Dios (aka. Juanito) was the best guide one could ask for to lead our small group of 5!!! He led by experience, with much charisma...and provided the much-needed support when the trekking got tough (aka. 2nd and 4th day)... Juanito stuck by us when the sun set and we became dependant on our eyes, ears and flashlights to guide us through to the base of the mountain... he stayed calm so we did not panic... and through the Inca trail he remained yet attentive, making sure one of the members arrived to the train station on time - he called on his "cousins" (aka. local familia) to help transport them by motorcycles... an added unforgettable experience that became the chat of the moment for days to come!! If you are looking for an all-inclusive outdoor and fun experience, with a little bit of physical challenge, but premium comfort and excellent quality, gourmet food from your own chef (aka. Ricardo), then sign up for this Premium 5-day trek and hope you get Juanito as your guide!!!
A trip of a lifetime!
houghtonsylvie,May 30, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00The entire trip was absolutely amazing. I appreciated the scenery, food, accommodations, excursions, and meticulously planned logistics from start to finish. Our guide, Guido, along with our chef and muleteer ensured we were very well taken care off, and we learned so much from our guide about the region including its people, history, and nature. Each day was unique, and our camps and meals were deluxe. We couldn’t have hoped for a better adventure!
Premium Salkantay Trek
Y4840AHsimonb,May 27, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Would recommend this to anyone considering doing a trek to Machu Pichu. Fantastic experience, scenery and people. Tour was very well organized and tour guide (Uriel) was amazing and went above and beyond.
Salkantay Trek
hannahtI3146YJ,May 27, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00This was an incredible trek! Uriel was very passionate about Peruvian culture and I learned so much about the local food, wildlife, plants, and history. The hikes were challenging, yet rewarding. The accommodations were lovely, especially considering the location and work to get food/water to each spot. I’d recommend this trek to anyone!
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