This program combines the best of Cusco in just a few days: first, it takes you through the iconic Cusco City Tour to learn about Inca history and acclimatize at a leisurely pace; then, it immerses you in the Sacred Valley tour between Pisac, Urubamba, and Ollantaytambo, where the scenery, living culture, and archaeological sites prepare you for a more intense experience. It’s a route designed for travelers who want to make the most of their time without feeling rushed, with well-connected itineraries and a pace that allows you to savor each day.
The second part is the adventure: the 4-day Salkantay trek from Cusco takes you along the most famous mountain route after the Inca Trail, with sought-after highlights such as Humantay Lagoon, the Salkantay Pass, and the transition from rainforest ecosystems to cloud forest. You’ll finish with the energy of a real trek and the satisfaction of ending your trip at Machu Picchu—an ideal combination if you’re looking for nature, hiking, and a unique arrival at the sanctuary.
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 trek)
📅 Day 3: Cusco – Mollepata – Soraypampa – Humantay Lagoon (start of the trek)
Here the real change begins: high Andean air, hiking, and a landscape that feels vast. Humantay Lagoon is often the first major highlight of the 4-day Salkantay Trek.
- Departure very early from Cusco to Mollepata (stop for breakfast).
- Continue by transport to Soraypampa (the base of the trek).
- Hike to Humantay Lagoon (gradual ascent, guided pace).
- Free time for photos and relaxation at the lagoon.
- Return to Soraypampa.
- Dinner and overnight stay at a campsite or lodge (depending on the tour option).
Day 4: Soraypampa – Salkantay Pass – Descent to the Andean Transition Zone
📅 Day 4: Soraypampa – Salkantay Pass – Descent to the Andean Transition Zone
This is the most demanding day of the 4-day Salkantay trek from Cusco due to the altitude and the ascent. The reward is clear: seeing the snow-capped Salkantay mountain up close and crossing the pass with views that impress even experienced trekkers.
- Early departure to take advantage of stable weather.
- Ascent to Salkantay Pass (Abra Salkantay), the highest point of the route.
- Short breaks to hydrate and catch your breath without losing momentum.
- Descent to a more temperate zone (transition landscape).
- Arrival at the assigned camp/lodge.
- Dinner and rest.
Day 5: Salkantay Trek – Cloud Forest, Coffee Plantations, and Trail to Santa Teresa / Hydroelectric Plant (as per itinerary)
📅 Day 5: Salkantay Trek – Cloud Forest, Coffee Plantations, and Trail to Santa Teresa / Hydroelectric Plant (as per itinerary)
This day feels different: the temperature changes, more trees and plantations appear, and the atmosphere is that of a high jungle. It’s one of the most enjoyable sections because your body is already accustomed to the terrain, and the landscape is constantly changing.
- Early breakfast and departure along cloud forest trails.
- Hike through sections with vegetation, natural viewpoints, and rural areas.
- Short stops to rest, hydrate, and take photos.
- Lunch en route (depending on the operation).
- Arrival at the Santa Teresa / Hydroelectric Plant area or camp (depending on the itinerary).
- Dinner and overnight stay.
Day 6: Hydroelectric Plant – Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu (visit) – return
📅 Day 6: Hydroelectric Plant – Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu (visit) – return
The finale is the most anticipated: you arrive in Aguas Calientes and then at Machu Picchu, with the feeling of having “earned” it step by step. Many travelers say that this combination of hiking and visiting makes the experience feel more complete.
- Hike from Hydroelectric Plant to Aguas Calientes (scenic route alongside the road).
- Time for lunch or to settle in before entering.
- Ascent to Machu Picchu (bus or hike, depending on your choice/package).
- Guided tour of Machu Picchu (circuit subject to availability).
- Time for photos and the end of the tour.
- Return to Cusco (usually by train and transportation, depending on the service).
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 City Tour and Sacred Valley
Authorized and comfortable transportation for all transfers on the tour. - ✔️ Professional bilingual guide (Spanish/English)
Clear explanations about Inca history, architecture, and Andean culture. - ✔️ Guided visit to Qoricancha, Sacsayhuaman, Qenqo, Puka Pukara, and Tambomachay
Complete interpretive tour within the Cusco City Tour. - ✔️ Guided tour of Pisac and Ollantaytambo (Sacred Valley of the Incas)
Entrance fee includes historical interpretation and cultural context.
🔹 Services on the 4-day Salkantay Trek
- ✔️ Transportation from Cusco to the starting point of the Salkantay Trek
Transfer to Soraypampa or the corresponding area depending on the trek. - ✔️ Official guide specializing in mountain trekking
Accompanying you throughout the route 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 sectors. - ✔️ Return transportation (train + ground transfer to Cusco)
Organized return from Aguas Calientes to Cusco.
NO INCLUYE
❌ 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 of the trekking program. - 🔸 Additional drinks and personal expenses
Includes purchases, extra snacks, or souvenirs. - 🔸 Tips for guide and support staff
Voluntary, based on satisfaction with the service. - 🔸 Entrance to Machu Picchu
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.
- Bring 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 handy.
- Go to bed early before starting the Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu to perform better.
- 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 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 the Salkantay Pass, 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 4-day Salkantay Trek.
In which months is it best 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 difference between the Inca Trail and the Salkantay Trek?
- The Inca Trail is a classic and more regulated route with limited spaces. The Salkantay Trek is a more scenic and flexible alternative, with views of Humantay Lagoon and the Salkantay mountain, and does not require permits as far in advance.
¿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 accommodations or basic lodging on certain sections.
Does the Cusco and Sacred Valley City Tour help with acclimatization?
- Yes. Taking the Cusco and Sacred Valley City Tour first allows your 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’ll 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 Salkantay?
- Yes, provided you do so with a reputable operator, an authorized guide, and follow 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.