Peru is one of the most fascinating countries on Earth — a place where ancient civilizations, majestic mountains, vibrant cultures, and delicious cuisine collide. Whether you’re planning your first trip to South America or returning for a deeper experience, Peru never disappoints. One of the best ways to explore the country’s rich history and incredible landscapes is by taking one of the many Peru tour packages available. And for those with an adventurous spirit, the SALKANTAY 5 DAYS / 4 NIGHTS TOUR is the perfect addition to your itinerary.
In this article, we’ll explore what makes the Salkantay trek so unique, how it fits into customized tour packages across Peru, and why it’s quickly becoming one of the top alternatives to the classic Inca Trail.
Why Choose the Salkantay Trek?
While Machu Picchu is undoubtedly Peru’s most famous attraction, how you get there can shape your entire experience. The SALKANTAY 5 DAYS / 4 NIGHTS TOUR is an epic trek through the Andes, offering a mix of towering snow-capped peaks, lush cloud forests, and traditional Andean villages.
Unlike the Inca Trail, which requires a government permit and often sells out months in advance, the Salkantay route is open year-round and doesn’t require special permits. That makes it an excellent option for travelers looking for flexibility, fewer crowds, and equally stunning scenery.
Key Benefits:
- No permit restrictions
- Fewer tourists on the trail
- More diverse landscapes
- Challenging but rewarding adventure
- Ends at the iconic Machu Picchu
It’s no wonder that this trek has become a highlight in many custom Peru tour packages designed for nature lovers and adventurers alike.
Overview of the SALKANTAY 5 DAYS / 4 NIGHTS TOUR
This multi-day trek covers approximately 70 kilometers (43 miles) over five days, taking you from high-altitude mountain passes to the jungle-covered valleys of the Sacred Valley.
Here’s a breakdown of the experience:
Day 1: Cusco – Mollepata – Soraypampa
Your adventure begins with an early pick-up from Cusco. After a scenic drive to the town of Mollepata, you’ll start hiking toward Soraypampa, your first campsite. Along the way, enjoy panoramic views of the snow-capped Humantay and Salkantay mountains. Many tours offer an optional side hike to the stunning Humantay Lake in the afternoon.
Elevation: 3,800 m (12,467 ft)
Distance: ~12 km (7.5 miles)
Overnight: Soraypampa
Day 2: Soraypampa – Salkantay Pass – Chaullay
This is the most challenging and rewarding day of the trek. You’ll ascend to the Salkantay Pass at 4,650 meters (15,255 feet), the highest point on the route, before descending into the cloud forest. The scenery transitions from icy peaks to lush greenery as you approach the village of Chaullay.
Distance: ~22 km (13.6 miles)
Overnight: Chaullay
Day 3: Chaullay – La Playa – Lucmabamba
The trek continues through jungle terrain, past coffee plantations and waterfalls. In Lucmabamba, you’ll have the opportunity to participate in a local coffee-making experience, learning how beans are harvested, roasted, and brewed. This cultural touch is a unique element of the Salkantay route.
Distance: ~15 km (9.3 miles)
Overnight: Lucmabamba (lodge or camp)
Day 4: Lucmabamba – Llactapata – Aguas Calientes
You’ll hike along a section of the original Inca Trail and visit Llactapata, a lesser-known Inca archaeological site with one of the first views of Machu Picchu. From there, descend to the hydroelectric station and either hike or take a short train ride to Aguas Calientes, the gateway town to Machu Picchu.
Distance: ~18 km (11 miles)
Overnight: Hotel in Aguas Calientes
Day 5: Machu Picchu Tour – Return to Cusco
After an early breakfast, you’ll take the bus up to Machu Picchu, arriving just as the sun rises over the Andes. Your guide will lead you on a 2-hour tour of the citadel, explaining its history, construction, and significance. After the tour, you’ll return to Cusco by train and bus.
Distance: Optional hike to Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain
Return: Evening arrival in Cusco
How the Salkantay Trek Fits Into Peru Tour Packages
Most comprehensive Peru tour packages are designed to showcase the country’s top highlights — Lima, Cusco, the Sacred Valley, Machu Picchu, and sometimes Lake Titicaca or the Amazon rainforest. Many travel agencies now offer packages that integrate the SALKANTAY 5 DAYS / 4 NIGHTS TOUR as the trekking component of a larger Peruvian adventure.
A Typical 10–14 Day Peru Tour with Salkantay Might Include:
- Day 1–2: Arrival in Lima, city tour and culinary experiences
- Day 3–4: Flight to Cusco, acclimatization and city tour
- Day 5–9: Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu
- Day 10: Return to Cusco, relaxation or additional tours
- Day 11–13: Optional extension to Lake Titicaca or the Amazon
- Day 14: Departure
By including the Salkantay trek in a broader package, travelers can get a more complete picture of Peru — from coastal cuisine to highland traditions and jungle ecosystems.
Types of Peru Tour Packages Featuring Salkantay
1. Standard Group Tours
- Ideal for budget-conscious travelers
- Shared guides, meals, and accommodation
- Prices from $450–$700 USD for the trek portion
2. Private Custom Packages
- Personalized itinerary, private guide, flexible start dates
- Ideal for families, couples, or small groups
- Combine the Salkantay trek with other destinations in comfort
3. Luxury Trekking Packages
- Stay in eco-lodges like those offered by Mountain Lodges of Peru
- Gourmet meals, hot showers, comfortable beds, and spa options
- Costs range from $2,500 to $4,000+ USD
When to Go: Best Season for Salkantay Tours
- Dry Season: May to October – clear skies, cooler nights, best conditions
- Rainy Season: November to April – trails can be muddy, but fewer crowds
- Shoulder Months: April and October offer a nice balance of weather and availability
Booking your Peru tour package well in advance is recommended, especially if you’re traveling during peak months (June–August).
Practical Tips for the Salkantay Trek
- Acclimatize: Spend at least 2 days in Cusco before the trek
- Train before your trip: The Salkantay trail includes high-altitude passes and long hiking days
- Pack wisely: Layered clothing, good hiking boots, sun protection, and a quality sleeping bag are essential
- Travel insurance: Highly recommended for trekking in remote areas
Final Thoughts
The SALKANTAY 5 DAYS / 4 NIGHTS TOUR is more than just a hike — it’s a transformational journey through some of the most beautiful and diverse landscapes Peru has to offer. With snow-capped mountains, hidden Inca ruins, jungle valleys, and a spectacular finish at Machu Picchu, the experience is unforgettable.
When integrated into a broader Peru tour package, the Salkantay trek elevates your adventure to another level. Whether you’re a solo backpacker, a couple celebrating a milestone, or a family seeking meaningful travel, Peru offers something for everyone — and the Salkantay route might just be the highlight of it all.
