¡This program combines three experiences that are perfect for first-time travelers: a Cusco City Tour to understand Inca history and acclimatize at a leisurely pace, a visit to the Sacred Valley of the Incas to see Andean engineering up close at sites like Pisac and Ollantaytambo, and the grand finale with the 5-day Salkantay Trek, one of the most comprehensive trekking routes to Machu Picchu.
The trip’s logic is simple: first, you explore Cusco and the valley to get into “Andean mode” (altitude, climate, gentle hikes), and then you begin the Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu, traversing landscapes that change daily: Humantay Lagoon, the Salkantay Pass, temperate valleys, and the final stretch via the hydroelectric plant to Aguas Calientes, where the guided tour of Machu Picchu awaits.
ITINERARY
Day 1: Cusco City Tour
📅 Detailed Itinerary
Day 1: Cusco City Tour
- 🕐 Hotel Pickup
The tour begins with pick-up from your hotel (historic center). The guide will provide a brief introduction to the history of Cusco, the altitude (3,399 m), and basic recommendations to help you enjoy the tour at your leisure. - 🏛 Visit to Qorikancha
First stop at the ancient Temple of the Sun, one of the most important religious centers of the Inca Empire.
Here you will be able to:- Observe the original Inca walls and their architectural precision.
- Understand the importance of the sun (Inti) cult.
- Learn how colonial construction was integrated on top of Inca foundations.
- 🚌 Transfer to the Archaeological Parks
Departure by tourist transport to the upper part of the city (approx. 20 minutes). Panoramic views of Cusco can be enjoyed along the way. - 🗿 Sacsayhuamán
One of the most impressive complexes due to its gigantic stone blocks.
Here, the guide explains:- Inca construction techniques.
- The ceremonial and strategic use of the site.
- Current events such as Inti Raymi.
- 🔮 Q’enqo
A ceremonial center with underground passages and rock formations. Its possible ritual and symbolic use is interpreted. - 🏰 Puka Pukara
An ancient military post or checkpoint. Good views of the valley are available from here. - 💧 Tambomachay
Known as the “Temple of Water.” It is notable for its still-functioning hydraulic channels. The importance of water in the Andean worldview is explained.
DAY 2: Sacred Valley of the Incas (full day) – Pisac, Urubamba, and Ollantaytambo
DAY 2: Sacred Valley of the Incas (full day) – Pisac, Urubamba, and Ollantaytambo
- Departure for the Sacred Valley of the Incas, with an explanation of the landscape, microclimates, and why this area was key to the Inca economy.
- Stop at a panoramic viewpoint to locate the valley and understand its geography before entering the archaeological sites.
- Visit to the Pisac archaeological complex, exploring terraces and main sectors, with a focus on agricultural engineering and urban planning.
- Free time at the Pisac market, ideal for textiles and handicrafts; practical recommendations are provided for leisurely shopping.
- Stop in Urubamba for lunch (depending on the service), prioritizing a light meal to arrive energized for the next site.
- Guided tour of Ollantaytambo, highlighting temples, canals, terraces, and the town’s importance as a “living city” of the valley.
- Return to Cusco. Recommendation: Prepare a trekking backpack and set aside clothing for cold and rain.
DAY 3: Cusco – Mollepata – Soraypampa – Humantay Lagoon (Start of the Salkantay Trek)
📅 DAY 3: Cusco – Mollepata – Soraypampa – Humantay Lagoon (Start of the Salkantay Trek)
- Departure for Mollepata, the logistical support point where registration and equipment check for the trek take place.
- Transfer to Soraypampa, the classic starting point of the 5-day Salkantay Trek.
- Hike to Humantay Lagoon, at a gradual pace with natural breaks to acclimatize without overexerting yourself.
- Time at the lagoon for photos and an explanation of the glacial environment and the importance of water in Andean tradition.
- Return to Soraypampa and rest at the campsite. Recommendation: warm clothing for the night, constant hydration, and early bedtime.
Day 4: Soraypampa – Salkantay Pass – Descent to Valley (Collpapampa or Chaullay)
📅 Day 4: Soraypampa – Salkantay Pass – Descent to Valley (Collpapampa or Chaullay)
- Gradual ascent hike towards Salkantay Pass, the most challenging section due to altitude.
- Arrival at the pass with a short break to breathe, take photos, and learn about Salkantay as a sacred mountain.
- Prolonged descent to intermediate zones with changing climate and landscape: more oxygen is felt, and greener valleys appear.
- Lunch en route (depending on the operation) and continuation to the valley camp, usually Collpapampa or Chaullay.
- Afternoon to rest, stretch your legs, and regain energy; it is recommended to take care of your knees and keep your clothes dry.
Day 5: Valley – Route to Santa Teresa (Lucmabamba or similar area)
📅 Day 5: Valley – Route to Santa Teresa (Lucmabamba or similar area)
- Hike along valley trails with denser vegetation and a temperate climate; passing through rural areas and along transitional paths.
- Short stops for hydration and rest, maintaining a steady pace to avoid tiring your legs before the final stretch.
- Arrival at the campsite or lodging in the Lucmabamba/Santa Teresa area (depending on the tour).
- Free time for recovery. Some routes offer the option of hot springs (if applicable), ideal for relaxing your legs and improving your rest.
Day 6: Santa Teresa – Hydroelectric Plant – Aguas Calientes
📅 Day 6: Santa Teresa – Hydroelectric Plant – Aguas Calientes
- Hike or internal transfer to the Hydroelectric Plant, a connection point frequently used by those doing the Salkantay Trek.
- Begin the final leg to Aguas Calientes, walking alongside the railway, through jungle scenery and in a warmer climate.
- Arrival in Aguas Calientes, check-in, and rest. It is recommended to have the following ready: ID, entrance ticket, light clothing, and a jacket for the morning.
- Briefing with the guide to organize the visit to Machu Picchu according to the available circuit.
DAY 7: Machu Picchu – Return to Cusco
📅DAY 7: Machu Picchu – Return to Cusco
- Departure for Machu Picchu (by bus or on foot, depending on the service).
- Guided tour of the assigned circuit, with historical interpretation and key points: urban planning, main sectors, and context of the sanctuary.
- Time for photos at permitted viewpoints within the circuit.
- Return to Aguas Calientes and return trip to Cusco (train + ground transportation).
INCLUDES
✅ INCLUDES
🔹 Services in Cusco (City Tour + Sacred Valley)
- ✔️ Pick-up from your hotel in Cusco (downtown area)
Facilitates the start of your excursions without additional travel. - ✔️ Tourist transportation during the Cusco and Sacred Valley City Tour
Authorized and comfortable transportation for all transfers throughout the tour. - ✔️ Professional bilingual guide (Spanish/English)
Clear explanations of Inca history, architecture, and Andean culture. - ✔️ Guided tour of Qoricancha, Sacsayhuamán, Qenqo, Puka Pukara, and Tambomachay
Complete interpretive tour included in the Cusco City Tour. - ✔️ Guided tour of Pisac and Ollantaytambo (Sacred Valley of the Incas)
Entrance guided with historical interpretation and cultural context.
🔹 Services on the 5-day Salkantay Trek
- ✔️ Transportation from Cusco to the starting point of the Salkantay Trek
Transfer to Soraypampa or the corresponding area depending on the operation. - ✔️ Official guide specializing in mountain trekking
Accompanying you throughout the trek to Machu Picchu. - ✔️ Complete camping equipment
Shared mountain tents, dining tent, and kitchen tent (depending on the trek). - ✔️ Cook and support team (muleteer and pack animals)
Responsible for transporting general equipment and preparing meals. - ✔️ Full board during the trek
Hot breakfasts, lunches, and dinners from the start of the trek until Aguas Calientes (according to the program). - ✔️ Guided tour of Machu Picchu
Interpretive tour of the main areas. - ✔️ Return transportation (train + ground transfer to Cusco)
Organized return from Aguas Calientes to Cusco.
NOT INCLUDED
❌ NOT INCLUDED
- 🔸 Cusco Tourist Ticket (BTC)
Required for entry to several sites on the City Tour and Sacred Valley. - 🔸 Entrance to Qoricancha
Separate entrance fee payable directly at the site. - 🔸 Lunch in the Sacred Valley
Paid directly at the chosen restaurant. - 🔸 Sleeping bag for the trek
Can be rented if the passenger does not have their own. - 🔸 Trekking poles
Optional; can be rented in advance. - 🔸 First breakfast and last dinner
Not included outside the trekking program. - 🔸 Additional drinks and personal expenses
Includes purchases, extra snacks, or souvenirs. - 🔸 Tips for guide and support team
Voluntary, based on satisfaction with the service. - 🔸 Machu Picchu Entrance
Official entrance to the historical sanctuary according to the available circuit.
RECOMMENDATIONS
Recommendations
- Bring a comfortable daypack (25–35 L) for water, warm clothing, snacks, and documents during the trek.
- Wear layers of clothing: a thermal base layer, a fleece, and a waterproof jacket to adapt to the changing weather on the 5-day Salkantay Trek.
- Include gloves, a hat, and a buff for the cold section of the Salkantay Pass.
- Wear broken-in trekking boots and appropriate socks to prevent blisters.
- Pack a rain poncho or waterproof jacket; the weather on the route to Machu Picchu can change without warning.
- Apply sunscreen and lip balm every day, even if it’s cloudy.
- Wear sunglasses with UV protection, especially in open, high-altitude areas.
- Stay constantly hydrated; drink water frequently during the hike.
- Eat light meals before and during the trek to maintain stable energy levels.
- Bring insect repellent starting on the third day, when the weather becomes more humid in the valley areas.
- Include a headlamp for camping and early mornings.
- Bring a power bank, as charging stations are not always available along the route.
- Carry cash for small expenses, snacks, or restroom breaks.
- Always have your ID and Machu Picchu entrance ticket readily available.
- Go to bed early before starting the Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu for better performance.
- On the Cusco and Sacred Valley City Tour, walk at a leisurely pace on the first day to acclimatize properly.
- Pack your backpack the night before visiting Machu Picchu to avoid forgetting anything.
- Always follow the pace recommended by the guide and do not push yourself too hard at high altitudes.
FAQs
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
¿How difficult is the 5-day Salkantay Trek?
- The Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu is considered moderate to moderately difficult. The most demanding section is the ascent to Abra Salkantay, due to the altitude. You don’t need technical experience, but you do need good physical condition and basic preparation for long hikes.
Do I need previous trekking experience?
It’s not mandatory to have done a trek before, but it is recommended to be used to walking for several hours. Doing previous hikes helps a lot in enjoying the 5-day Salkantay Tour more.
¿What is the best season to do the Salkantay Trek?
- The best season is between April and October, when there is less rain and clearer skies. From November to March it can be done, but there is a higher probability of rain on the route to Machu Picchu.
¿What is the accommodation like during the trek?
- Most programs involve sleeping in organized camps with mountain tents. Some versions of the Salkantay Trek offer lodge accommodation or basic lodging on certain sections.
Does the Cusco City Tour and the Sacred Valley help with acclimatization?
- Yes. Taking the Cusco City Tour and the Sacred Valley of the Incas first allows the body to better adapt to the altitude before starting the mountain trek.
¿How many hours of walking are involved per day on the Salkantay Trek?
- On average, you walk between 5 and 8 hours per day, depending on the section. The day at the Salkantay Pass is usually the longest and most demanding.
Is it safe to trek to Machu Picchu via the Salkantay Trail?
- Yes, provided you do so with a reputable tour operator, an authorized guide, and by following safety recommendations and hiking pace guidelines.
What should I bring to Machu Picchu on the last day?
- Your ID, printed or digital ticket, water, sunscreen, a lightweight rain jacket, and a small backpack. Large backpacks are not allowed inside the sanctuary.
¿How far in advance should I book?
- It is recommended to book in advance, especially during peak season (May to September), as entry to Machu Picchu is limited.