Salkantay Trek – Humantay Lake and Machu Picchu – 5 Days

Overview

The Salkantay Trek is the premier alternative to the Inca Trail. This 5-day expedition masterfully blends Andean natural beauty with deep cultural immersion. You will journey under the watch of the majestic Salkantay (6,264m)—the “God of the Mountains”—revered for millennia by local communities.

As you traverse stunning valleys and high-altitude passes alongside the spirits of peaks like Humantay and Tucarhuay, you will experience a profound connection to the Inca civilization. This enriching adventure offers the very best of Peru’s landscapes, culminating in a triumphant arrival at the legendary Machu Picchu.

Altitude: 1,950m – 4,600m (6,398ft – 15,091ft)

Season: April – November

Duration: 4 Days / 3 Nights

Difficulty Level: Moderate

Itinerary

Day 1: Cusco – Soraypampa – Humantay Lake – Soyrococha

Our adventure begins at 5:00 a.m. with a departure from Cusco toward the village of Mollepata. After a brief stop for last-minute supplies, we continue to Soraypampa (3,850m), the official starting point of our trek. Here, you will meet our dedicated support team and pack horses before we hit the trail.

At 9:00 a.m., we commence our ascent toward the turquoise waters of Humantay Lake, an iconic alpine gem nestled among the peaks. Along the way, you will enjoy sweeping panoramic views of the Salkantay massif and the deep Apurímac River Valley. Following a revitalizing lunch at Salkantaypampa, we trek to our first campsite at Soyrococha. Your tents will be prepared and waiting for you, allowing you to relax before a hearty dinner under the Andean sky.

Transport Time: 4 hours.

Hiking Time: 7 hours.

Weather: Cold.

 Meals: Lunch, Dinner.

Day 2: Soyrococha – Challway

Today’s journey is one of incredible contrasts, taking you from glacial highlands to lush tropical forests. Following a hearty breakfast, we begin our ascent at 8:00 a.m. toward the trek’s highest point: the Salkantay Pass (4,600m). From this vantage point, you will face the majestic Salkantay Mountain (6,264m), the second-highest peak in the Cusco region, and visit the intensely turquoise Salkantay Lake.

After taking in the spectacular views, we descend for lunch at Huayracmachay. In the afternoon, the landscape transforms as we enter the high jungle. A 3-hour descent brings us to our campsite at Challway (2,920m), where a warm dinner and a well-earned rest await in the heart of the cloud forest.

Hiking Time: 8 hours

 Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 3: Challway – Sahuayaco – Santa Teresa

The day begins at 7:00 a.m. with a trek of approximately 5 hours toward Playa Sahuayaco.

Along the way, we’ll pass through the charming village of Collpabamba, known as the “Cloud Forest.”, you’ll encounter waterfalls, fruit trees, diverse flora, and vibrant birdlife.

With some luck, you may spot the famous Andean Cock-of-the-Rock bird.

Around noon, a local bus will take us to the Santa Teresa Hot Springs, where you can enjoy a relaxing dip in the thermal pools.

The day concludes with dinner and camping in Santa Teresa.

Hiking Time: 6 hours

Weather: Warm during the day with mosquitoes

 Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 4: Santa Teresa – Lucmabamba – Llactapata – Hydroelectric Station – Aguas Calientes

After breakfast, a short transfer takes us to Lucmabamba, where we begin a scenic 3-hour ascent through organic coffee plantations. We arrive at the Llactapata ruins, an ancient Inca site offering an exclusive and breathtaking panoramic view of Machu Picchu from across the valley.

Following a descent to the Hydroelectric Station for lunch, we enjoy a flat 2-hour walk along the river to Aguas Calientes. The day concludes with check-in at your lodge and a celebratory dinner at a local restaurant at 7:00 p.m.

Hiking Time: 6 hours

Weather: Warm during the day with mosquitoes

 Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 5: Machu Picchu – Aguas Calientes – Cusco

Your journey reaches its peak with a 4:30 a.m. bus ride to catch the first light over Machu Picchu. Explore the mysteries of the Inca citadel during a 2-hour guided tour, followed by time to immerse yourself in the site’s breathtaking atmosphere.

Afterward, return to Aguas Calientes for lunch before boarding your evening train to Ollantaytambo (standard departure at 6:20 p.m.). Upon arrival, our private transport will be waiting to transfer you directly back to your hotel in Cusco, concluding an unforgettable expedition.

Weather: Warm during the day with mosquitoes

 Meals: Breakfast

 Includes:

• Briefing about the Salkantay trek at your hotel.
• Transportation to Soraypampa (starting point of the hike).
• Horses (to carry tents and kitchen equipment).
• Meals: 4 breakfasts, 4 lunches, 4 dinners.
• Vegetarian or vegan options are available upon request at no extra charge.
• First aid kid.
• Bus ticket from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu (round trip).
• Entrance to Machu Picchu and Humantay Lagoon.
• Emergency horse.
• Train from the hydroelectric station to Aguas Calientes.

Optional (subject to availability):

• Upgrade to Vistadome return train: USD 30.00 per person
• Entry to Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain: USD 63.00 per person – Net rate.

What You Should Bring

•  You must show it at the Machu Picchu entrance, and you can optionally get it stamped at the end of the hike.
• Optional: Water purification tablets if you collect water from streams or rivers along the route. Otherwise, we provide boiled, filtered water that is safe to drink.
• A backpack with a change of clothes for 5 days.
• Waterproof jacket.
• Flashlight and batteries, camera, film, and spare batteries.
• Warm clothing, including a jacket, fleece, and sweaters.
• Snacks: cookies, energy bars, chocolate, etc.
• Swimsuit (if you plan to visit the hot springs).
• Cash in Peruvian soles and US dollars for personal expenses.
• Optional: Trekking poles or walking sticks (rubber tips are required).
• Hat or cap to protect against sun, rain, or cold.
• Insect repellent, toilet paper, small towel, and sunscreen.
• Sleeping bag.
• A selection of small snacks like chocolates, dried fruits, and cookies.
• A camera (wrapped in rain protection).

Important:

• The itinerary is referential and subject to changes based on weather conditions and/or the walking pace of the group.

Net Rates Per Person in USD – Minimum 2 passengers.

Tourist Service

First Class (Private)

Terms & Conditions

Please read carefully the following terms and conditions to avoid misunderstandings that may arise days before and/or during the experience, in case you have additional questions please contact us and we will gladly assist you. We want your experience with us to be extraordinary. DMC Peru Agency is not responsible and will not make any refund or reimbursement for any misunderstanding.

2.- Rates:

• Rates valid until 2027 – Rates are expressed in US dollars (USD).
• Rates are subject to change without prior notice according to availability and rates, please consult with your executive before confirming availability.
• Rates per person are based on 02 passengers, with an additional cost per individual traveler.
• Rates include charges for credit card payments.
• Rates do not apply for Christmas and New Year’s holidays.

Special dates (*)

3.- The programs are quoted in the standard room category of the hotels, for higher categories, please contact us.

4.- It is the responsibility of each traveler to have the required documents for his/her trip, in force (with more than six months of validity after the end of his/her visit to our countries) and in good condition.

As a general rule, these include, for each traveler, a passport, identity card, for countries that exceptionally allow entry with this document in replacement of the passport, visas when required, for countries in transit and destination countries, and certificates of certain vaccinations, for countries that require it, the traveler’s document must be the same with which he/she confirmed his/her reservation.

5.- Check-in and check-out times are set by each hotel. In general, rooms are available for check-in from 3:00 PM, and check-out must be before 12:00 PM. Later departures may mean additional charges.

It is important to follow the recommendations of the assistant who accompanies you at the time of check-in at the hotel and/or ask the hotel for the respective schedules in case they are not published at the front desk.

6.- The requirements for double rooms (double or twin beds), triple rooms, extra beds, and/or cribs are subject to confirmation by each hotel.

7.- Triple rooms in some destinations and hotels comprise 2 double beds, which requires sharing these beds.

8.- Tourists are obliged to conduct themselves respecting the rights of people, the environment, the cultural and natural heritage of our countries, as well as the multi-ethnic conditions, beliefs, customs, and ways of life of the inhabitants of the localities they visit.

9.-It is strictly forbidden to engage in conduct that interferes with the safety and comfort of the other participants of the group, such as the consumption of drugs and alcohol.

The use of female or male escorts (prostitution) is not tolerable within a trip, the use of minors for this type of services is penalized by the authorities. DMC PERU AGENCY protects the integrity of minors and adolescents.

Itineraries. – The itineraries have been planned with great care, although for operational reasons, climatic or political factors or any other eventuality it may be necessary to change the sequence of activities in the itinerary or the specified route; such cases are exceptional and the passenger will be informed.

In order to improve the tourists’ experience, the order of the excursions may vary.

Services not included. – The passenger is responsible for all administrative formalities such as: Obtaining and updating passports, visas, travel insurance, payment of excess baggage, beverages, laundry service, communication (calls, faxes, e-mails, etc.), domestic and international airport departure taxes, tips or other services and fees not specified in the itinerary.

Services not used. – Some services may be interrupted or canceled due to weather conditions, force majeure such as acts of nature, social upheaval, strikes, etc., or others beyond the control of the hotels, airlines, other suppliers or DMC PERU AGENCY. No reimbursement shall be made as a consequence of such interruptions or cancellations beyond our control. DMC PERU AGENCY will at all times assist the passenger and modify the itinerary for the passenger’s benefit, as well as provide permanent assistance.

Insurance. – We recommend passengers obtain trip cancellation, repatriation, and international medical insurance to cover any discomfort that may arise during the trip. We also suggest that you consult with your doctor to update your vaccination records and review any medical concerns regarding international travel.

Airline Tickets. – 100% payment is required for ticket issuance.

Fares are subject to availability and only the final price is guaranteed with the purchase of the ticket; refunds, changes allowed/not allowed, penalties applied and not applied are in accordance with airline policy.

Tickets are non-refundable or non-endorsable in case of cancellation.

Baggage Responsibilities. – DMC PERU AGENCY recommends that all passengers arrive in Peru with their own travel insurance and that they have coverage for lost luggage.

DMC PERU AGENCY cannot be held responsible for: – Luggage lost or delayed during domestic or international flights, as well as carry-on items, or personal items.

Objects forgotten by passengers in hotels, vehicles, or places visited during the trip.

We recommend our passengers not to include any valuable items in their checked baggage during transfers and flights.

Reservation Policies. – Any reservation must include the following information of the passenger(s) or group:

1. Full names and surnames.
2. Nationalities.
3. Passport or identity card number.
4. Date of birth.
5. Gender.
6. Dietary restrictions (allergies, intolerance to certain products, vegans, vegetarians, etc.) if any.

Dietary restrictions (allergies, intolerance to certain products, vegans, vegetarians, etc.) if any.

The consequences generated by the omission of information on physical and medical conditions, among others, are the sole responsibility of the passenger.

Airline reservation code in case the passenger makes the reservation on his/her own or through an external organization to DMC PERU AGENCY.

In the case of foreign students, it must be duly accredited with the respective student card in which the validity of the same is clearly shown.

No other type of document will be accepted to request the respective discount for admission to the tourist attractions.

1. The passport / ID number is MANDATORY for issuing admission tickets to tourist attractions, bus, train, and/or airline tickets.
2. Passengers must have a valid passport to enter our countries.

Your passport must be valid for 6 months from the date of entry to Peru.

Definition of Group Size. – INDIVIDUALS or FITS: Up to 8 passengers. In case of more passengers send us a quotation as a group.

Payment policies. – DMC PERU AGENCY requires payment in full: 35 days prior to arrival for Individual passengers / FITs. 60 days prior to arrival in case of Groups. Payment terms in the case of groups may vary depending on the policy of some hotels and/or suppliers. Please consult. Payment constitutes acceptance of the terms and conditions outlined in this document, as well as those indicated in the quotation or booking confirmation.

Payment Methods (For Groups or FIT’s)

Bank Transfer: Payments should be made to the following bank account in Lima, Peru, BANCO DE CREDITO DEL PERU – MIRAFLORES BRANCH. ACCOUNT NUMBER: 285-11840622-1-90. ACCOUNT NAME: AMARA EXPERIENCE E.I.R.L. SWIFT CODE: BCPLPEPL.

We accept all major credit and debit cards.

For other payment alternatives, we accept transfers via Western Union or Money Gram, in case you wish to pay with this option please indicate it to your sales executive to provide you with the corresponding information.

All transfer costs are assumed by the sender and must have in reference the tour number(s) or name of DMC PERU AGENCY.

In addition, we request a copy of the payment confirmation issued by the bank via mail, with the following information attached:

• Name of the passengers.
• Name of the Tour.
• Date of the trip.

The information requested is key to be able to make the correct follow-up of payments and operations.

Cancellations and Refunds. – Requests for cancellations and requests for refunds must be made in writing and include all related information, and we will respond immediately after consultation with the service providers, indicating the respective charges for cancellation or cancellation of services. The request will be applied within working days.

Cancellation Charges. – Cancellation charges tend to increase when the arrival date is closer. DMC PERU AGENCY will do its best to keep these charges as low as possible.

Policies for Children. – Discounts will be applied only for children under 8 years of age in case of admission to tourist attractions. Hotel discounts apply according to the policies of each hotel and/or provider. Child rates apply when accompanied by 02 adults.

Liability Clause: DMC PERU AGENCY shall not be liable for any injury, death, loss, delay, inconvenience, damage to personal belongings in connection with the provision of any goods or services due to force majeure: illness, government restrictions, acts of civil war, insurrection or rebellion, strikes or other activities, criminal or terrorist of any kind, food poisoning, mechanical failure of aircraft or other means of transportation or for your delay of departure or arrival on time.

DMC PERU AGENCY is not responsible for the error or omission of any supplier (such as accommodations or the Transportation Company) if the client makes any reservation on his own account with a service provider other than DMC PERU AGENCY. The necessary support will be provided according to our competencies.

DMC PERU AGENCY reserves the right to take photographs or film recordings of any of its trips, and to use such photographs or film recordings for promotional and/or commercial purposes.

CANCELLATION AND ANULLMENT POLICIES – DMC PERU AGENCY 

DMC Peru Agency is an inbound tour operator with direct operations in Peru, Bolivia, and Ecuador. In order to guarantee excellence, commercial transparency, and the success of each itinerary, we provide the following business guidelines for all service confirmations:

All requests for modifications, cancellations, or annulments of services must be formally submitted in writing via email by the reservation holder to our dedicated department: operaciones@peruagency.com. The official date of receipt of said email will determine the applicable cost coverage in accordance with the following parameters:

We highly appreciate your valuable trust in our strategic alliance and reaffirm our firm commitment to delivering the highest standard of service for your clients.

1. Cancellation Guidelines and Cost Coverage: Refunds and operational cost coverages are processed based on the number of days prior notice provided before the scheduled trip start date:

• 40 days or more before departure: 100% refund of the deposit received is guaranteed, deducting only administrative fees and specific services already issued that carry non-refundable regulations (airfares, government entrance fees, train tickets, etc.).
• Between 39 and 20 days before departure: A 60% refund of the total tour package value will be processed, with the remaining percentage allocated to cover operational commitments made with local suppliers.
• Between 19 and 10 days before departure: A 30% refund of the total tour package value will be processed.
• Between 9 and 5 days before departure: A 10% refund of the total tour package value will be processed.
• Less than 5 days or No Presentation (No Show): Due to immediate confirmations and the exclusive assignment of private guides and private transfers, services within this time window are fully dedicated to the operational coverage of the itinerary; therefore, refunds do not apply.

2. Special Components Under Direct Regulations: Specific services, due to government regulations or fixed policies of strategic operators, are issued immediately and cannot be modified or refunded once processed. These amounts will be transparently detailed in the booking balance:

• Machu Picchu and Inca Trail Entrance Fees: Regulated directly by the Peruvian Ministry of Culture; they are issued on a nominative, non-refundable, non-endorsable, and non-transferable basis.
• Train Tickets (PeruRail / Inca Rail): Strictly subject to the tariff conditions of the railway companies (promotional and high-demand rates feature final emission policies).
• Airfares (Domestic and International): Governed under the specific terms and regulations of the contracted airline.
• High Season Blockouts and Special Events: Programs operated during peak seasons (Easter, Inti Raymi, National Holidays, Christmas, New Year, or corporate MICE programs) are managed under timely guarantee conditions to secure spaces.

3. Coordination for Force Majeure Events: In exceptional circumstances beyond the control of both parties (regional strikes, extreme weather conditions, passenger health reasons duly certified, official border or airport closures), our priority is to safeguard your clients’ investment through the following actions:

• DMC Peru Agency will act as your direct intermediary with hotels, airlines, and transport providers to coordinate the rescheduling of travel dates without any penalties from our agency (subject to supplier seasonality or availability).
• If rescheduling is not feasible for the passenger, we will issue a Travel Credit Voucher for the total value of recovered amounts, valid for use within the following 12 months.

4. Flexibility, Rescheduling, and Adjustment Policies:

• Date Flexibility: Itinerary change requests will be processed with the utmost willingness and efficiency, structured in accordance with supplier availability and the regulations of the selected season.
• Seasonal Rates: All rescheduling will adapt to the current rates corresponding to the new date chosen by the client, respecting tariff differences due to seasonal changes, if any.
• Re-issuance of Admission Tickets: According to government mandates, entrance tickets to archaeological monuments such as the Machu Picchu citadel must be purchased anew for the rescheduled travel dates.

5. Refund Management and Financial Processes:

• All approved refunds will be processed through the same payment method used during the purchase confirmation (international bank transfer or virtual payment gateway).
• Financial fees charged by payment gateways (credit card commissions) or international bank transfer expenses belong to third-party services; therefore, these operational costs are covered by the client.
• To ensure correct accounting validation, refunds will be completed in an organized manner within an estimated period of 15 to 30 business days following the confirmation of the cancellation.