5 days / 4 nights
Daily departures
Max: 14 People
Challenging
- Duration: 5 days | Distance: 72 km | Max. Altitude: 4,630 m | Difficulty: Challenging.
INCLUDED:

5-Day Salkantay Trek Overview: The Ultimate Andean Experience
Our Salkantay Trek 5 Days is the perfect blend of high-altitude adventure and tropical discovery. This classic route takes you from the turquoise waters of Humantay Lake to the majestic Salkantay Pass, eventually descending into the lush cloud forest.
Experience the unique Oki Doki Sky Lodge in Soraypampa, where you will sleep under the stars. Discover hidden Inca paths at Llactapata for an exclusive first view of Machu Picchu, visit local organic coffee farms, and enjoy the comfort of our professional service from start to finish.
Mapa Tour Salkantay Trek 5 Days: The Ultimate Classic Route to Machu Picchu (2026 Guide)
Salkantay Trek 5 Days: The Ultimate Classic Route to Machu Picchu (2026 Guide)
5 days / 4 nights, Group Hiking Tour
Trip Details
Highlights Trip
Embark on the legendary Salkantay Trek to discover the ancient citadel of Machu Picchu. This journey crosses the majestic Vilcabamba mountain range, guarded by the towering Salkantay peak (6,271 m / 20,574 ft)âthe most sacred ‘Apu’ in Inca mythology. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site, this route offers a perfect harmony between untouched natural beauty and the breathtaking architectural genius of the Inca Empire.
đ Availability & Machu Picchu Tickets 2026
Booking your trek in advance is essential due to the new Peruvian government regulations.
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Real-Time Booking: When you book with Oki Doki Travel, we immediately secure the best available circuit for your visit.
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Circuit Priority: We prioritize Circuit 2 (Classic Route), which offers the iconic “Postcard View” of the citadel. If sold out, we coordinate with you to provide the best alternative (Panoramic or Royalty routes).
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Expert Management: Donât worry about the complex ticket system; our team handles all government permits to ensure your entry to the World Wonder.
đïž Trek Highlights
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Humantay Lake: A stunning glacial lagoon at 4,200m.
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Salkantay Sky Lodge: Exclusive accommodation in Soraypampa (Sky Lodge Salkantay Okidoki).
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Llactapata Ruins: The only place to see Machu Picchu from a distance across the valley.
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Coffee Tour: Authentic “Bean-to-Cup” experience with local families.
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Flexible Return: Choose between a scenic train ride or a budget-friendly bus return.
đïž 5-Day Salkantay Trek: At a Glance
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Day 1: The Turquoise Gem & Sky Lodge
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Route: Cusco â Mollepata â Humantay Lake â Soraypampa.
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Max. Altitude: 4,200 m (13,779 ft).
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Distance: 12 km (approx. 5 hours).
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Highlight: Sleeping under the stars at our exclusive Salkantay Sky Lodge.
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Day 2: The Alpine Challenge
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Route: Soraypampa â Salkantay Pass â Chaullay.
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Max. Altitude: 4,630 m (15,190 ft).
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Distance: 22 km (approx. 9 hours).
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Highlight: Reaching the highest point and a traditional Andean ceremony for the Apus.
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Day 3: Coffee & Tropical Flavors
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Route: Chaullay â High Jungle â Sahuayaco Beach.
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Max. Altitude: 2,900 m (9,514 ft).
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Distance: 15 km (approx. 5 hours).
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Highlight: Immersive Organic Coffee Tour and optional Santa Teresa hot springs.
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Day 4: The Secret Inca Trail
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Route: Lucmabamba â Llactapata Ruins â Aguas Calientes.
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Max. Altitude: 2,800 m (9,186 ft).
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Distance: 25 km (approx. 9 hours).
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Highlight: The only hidden view of Machu Picchu from across the valley.
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Day 5: The Grand Finale
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Route: Aguas Calientes â Machu Picchu Citadel â Cusco.
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Max. Altitude: 2,430 m (7,972 ft).
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Distance: 5 km (exploring the ruins).
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Highlight: A guided tour of the World Wonder and return to Cusco by train or bus.
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Trip Itinerary - Salkantay Trek 5 Days: The Ultimate Classic Route to Machu Picchu (2026 Guide)
Your adventure begins while Cusco is still fast asleep. Between 4:20 and 4:50 a.m., we will pick you up from your hotel to start the journey into the heart of the Andes. Your first stop will be the picturesque village of Mollepata (2,900 m / 9,514 ft). After a two-hour drive watching the sunrise over the Anta Valley, youâll have 20 minutes to stretch your legs, enjoy a hot coffee, and prepare yourself for your first real encounter with the energy of the mountains.
Then we will continue our journey towards the place of challacancha which is the beginning of the walk that has as a height 3600mt-11500ft.
Then we will have approximately 3 hours of travel until arriving at the base of the camp called soraypampa (sky lodge salkantay okidoki) that has as height 3912mt-12834ft, where we will have a lunch enjoying the panoramic view of the mountains and its geography as -the snowy of humantay lake 4200mt-13779ft and also the snowfall of the salkantay 6271mt-20575ft after a rest we will make an acenso for one hour 30 minutes towards the lake Humantay and then we will return to the base of the camp sky lodge where we will have the time of the tea and also the dinner.



Salkantay Sky Lodge Soraypampa – Tour Operator Okidoki Travel




Today is the day youâll test your limits and reach the summit of your journey. Weâll wake up at 5:00 a.m. to a steaming cup of coca tea, followed by a high-energy breakfast at 5:30 a.m. By 6:00 a.m., your boots will be on the trail, starting a steady 3-hour ascent toward the legendary Salkantay Pass (4,630 m / 15,190 ft).
At the top, standing face-to-face with the massive Andean peaks, we will share a traditional Andean ceremony to thank the Apus (mountain spirits) for a safe passage.
After celebrating your achievement, the descent begins toward Huayrapunku (3,912 m / 12,834 ft) for a well-deserved lunch.
Finally, weâll continue our trek into the changing landscape of the high jungle until we reach our second campsite, Chaullay (2,900 m / 9,514 ft), where the warmer air and lush scenery will welcome you.



Best Salkantay Mountain




Get ready for a radical change in scenery. We descend from the rugged highlands into the lush Peruvian High Jungle. the day at 6:00am and breakfast at 6:30am, then starting the trek in a high jungle with a very beautiful geography of rivers, waterfalls where we can appreciate flora and fauna of this place as orchids coffee and coca plantations, fruit trees bananas papaya avocado granadilla and birds like, hummingbird, parrots and cock of the rocks, etc.
To reach Sahuayo beach 2064mt â 6771ft â where we will have a lunch and our camp (in this camp we will sleep in tents) after lunch we will have a coffee tour where local people will show us the process and production of coffee and we will also have other activities not included that are



Activities not included in the trek after lunch â hot springs and zip line

the hot springs of santa tereza and the zip line this can be coordinated with the guides (does not include).

Today is a day of anticipation and breathtaking views. We start early at 4:30 a.m., followed by breakfast at 5:00 a.m. Our journey begins with a short walk to the community of Lucmabamba. From there, we embark on an ancient Inca path for a 2-hour ascent to the archaeological site of Llactapata.
At the summit, you will be rewarded with a unique perspective. From this mountain, you can appreciate the Aobamba and Vilcanota Valleys. Most importantly, you will enjoy a stunning distant view of Machu Picchu, a sight only a few hikers get to experience before the final day.
After exploring the Inca ruins, we descend for about 2 hours to the Hydroelectric plant for a rewarding lunch. The final stretch is a peaceful 3-hour walk along the train tracks to Aguas Calientes (2,050 m / 6,725 ft), also known as Machu Picchu Town. Tonight, you will enjoy a delicious dinner in a local restaurant and stay in a comfortable hostel, resting for the grand finale tomorrow






This day we will start very early at 4:30 am.
The first part of the trip is flat for œ hour and then 1 hour of ascent towards Machupicchu where we will arrive at approximately 6:00 am to be able to see the sunrise and have the exploration of Machu Picchu with our guide for approximately 2 hours.
After a rest you can leave Machupicchu and begin your descent no later than 10:30 am to begin your walk for 3 more hours towards Hidroeléctrica where we will board the bus to return to Cusco.

Includes the return by bus from Hidroeléctrica at 2:00 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. and arriving in Cusco between 10:00 p.m. to 10:30 p.m. (approximately 7 hours). Cusco center

![salkantay-trek- classic machupicchu travel peru cusco okidoki]](https://www.okidokitravelperu.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/salkantay-trek-10.jpg)
Transportation to return to Cusco on the last day.

This day we will start very early at 4:00am, the first part of the trip is flat for œ hour and for 1 hour it is an ascent towards Machu Piccho where we will arrive at approximately 6am to be able to see the sunrise and have the exploration of Machu Picchu with our guide for an average of 2 hours approximately,
It is the new government regulation and after your visit to Machu Picchu, you have to go down through the town of Aguas Calientes and to go down you have 2 options depending on your physical condition after the walkâŠ..
- First optionâŠa walk of 1 hour and 30 minutes to the town of Aguas CalientesâŠâŠ.
- Second optionâŠbus x 30 minutes to the town of Aguas Calientes price 12 dollars per person not included.
Then you have time for lunch not included with some free time,


then you will take the train to Ollantaytambo for approximately 1 hour and 40 minutes and then a bus to Cusco for approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes to the center of Cusco.
end of service okidoki travel peru operator

The Ultimate Classic Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu (4-Day)
Essential Guide for your Classic Salkantay Trek 2026
How difficult is the 4-Day Salkantay Trek? The Classic Salkantay Trek is considered a challenging hike, reaching a maximum altitude of 4,630m (15,190 ft) at the famous Salkantay Pass. While no professional climbing experience is needed, we recommend at least 2 days of acclimatization in Cusco to avoid altitude sickness. Our 4-day itinerary is designed for hikers with moderate fitness who want a direct connection to Machu Picchu.
Best Time to Hike the Salkantay Route The peak season for the Salkantay Trek 2026 is from May to September (dry season), offering clear views of the Humantay Lake and the Salkantay snowy peaks. However, Oki Doki Travel Peru operates this route almost year-round with expert guides and high-quality camping gear.
Whatâs Included in the 2026 Edition? Our classic service includes professional bilingual guides, muleteers, horses for equipment, nutritious meals, and the final entry ticket to Machu Picchu. Unlike other 5-day versions, this 4-day Salkantay trek is optimized for travelers with limited time who don’t want to miss the most scenic landscapes of the Peruvian Andes.
What's Included - Salkantay Trek 5 Days: The Ultimate Classic Route to Machu Picchu (2026 Guide)
- Machu Picchu entrance ticket
- Detailed information about your tour booked 1 day before departure at the Okidoki Travel Peru office. Location: Calle Nueva Alta No. 644, Hostal Okidoki Cusco.
- EQUIPMENT DELIVERY: (Canvas bag to carry all your equipment on the mules for Salkantay).
- Transportation from Cusco to the start of the Salkantay trek.
- 4 breakfasts, 3 lunches, and 3 dinners (Salkantay-Machu Piccho).
- SLEEPING BAG.
- Professional guide (English/Spanish) for 4 days, including Machu Picchu.
- Hot drinks in the evening and with each meal.
- Mules to carry 5 kg per person.
- Hostel in Aguas Calientes. 1 night.
- Return bus transportation to Cusco on the last day (if returning with the bus option).
Not Included - Salkantay Trek 5 Days: The Ultimate Classic Route to Machu Picchu (2026 Guide)
- The last lunch
- Entrance ticket to the Mollepata community â Humantay Lagoon costs 20 soles
- Transportation on the third day, after lunch, from Sahuayaco beach to Hidroeléctrica (40 or 50 soles). Start of the trek to reach the town of
- Aguas Calientes.
- Water (cold beer, champagne, whiskey, etc.)
- Trekking poles (PAR): US$10
- Hot waters in the town of Aguas Calientes: 20 soles
- Bus from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu: US$12 (one way)
- Entrance to HuaynaPicchu mountain: US$25 (book months in advance)
- Entrance to Machu Picchu mountain: US$25 (book months in advance)
- Tips (voluntary) on the trek
- Travel insurance
- Hot shower at the second campsite: 10 soles
- Wi-Fi: 10 soles
What to Pack - Salkantay Trek 5 Days: The Ultimate Classic Route to Machu Picchu (2026 Guide)
- Original Passport and original student ID (if you booked as a student): You will need it to enter Machu Picchu and the trail checkpoints.
- Backpack (30 liters): A comfortable backpack to carry your personal belongings, water, and snacks.
- Rain jacket or poncho
- Hiking Boots: Well-worn, waterproof boots with ankle support. Do not bring brand-new shoes to avoid blisters!
- Flashlight
- Towel and toilet paper
- Personal medications for the trek
- Sun Protection: SPF 50+ sunscreen and lip balm, as the sun is very strong at high altitudes.
- sunglasses, hat
- Mosquito repellent
- Chocolate and candy snacks
- Camera for Salkantay and Machu Picchu
- Extra money for the trek
- Technology: Extra camera batteries (the cold drains them faster!) and a portable power bank.
...
Classic Salkantay Trek 5 Days: Small Groups & Expert Guides
CONDITIONS FOR MAKING RESERVATIONS AND CANCELLATIONS
To make your reservation, you need the exact departure date of your classic Salkantay trek because there are no changes or cancellations.
RESERVE MONEY DEPOSIT
To confirm your booking and participation in the trek, you must make a deposit. This deposit is to reserve all trek services and, most importantly, the purchase of your Machu Picchu ticket (the Machu Piccho ticket is personal and cannot be canceled, rescheduled, or transferred to another person).
CANCELLATION POLICY
Cancellations and date changes are not accepted; you simply lose your deposit, and there are no refunds.
Your deposit is not for our use (it’s for purchasing Machu Picchu tickets, and these tickets cannot be canceled).
It’s for organizing a good trek in Okidoki – Tour Operator. To ensure this organization, we need to make advance reservations for all the services you’ll need during your 4 or 5 days of trekking. These reservations are secured with deposits to avoid problems or last-minute cancellations from our suppliers. If we cancel these reservations, we lose our deposits because this is not a game. By making a reservation with our service providers for the treks, we are blocking spaces that they can easily offer to other tour operators who also need them.
WHAT ARE THE REQUIREMENTS TO GET THE STUDENT DISCOUNT?
The ISIC card is not valid because the government found counterfeit copies⊠and neither are certifications, documents, university transcripts, internship certificates, etc.
If you are a student, the discount is $20, but you must have a current university ID (2026 or 2027), not one from 3 or 4 years later (2028 or 2029). Your photo and the name of your university are required.
We need a copy of your original passport and your student ID to show to the government, who will determine its validity, as the discount is for Machu Picchu entrance, not the hike.
IMPORTANT NOTE:
You must bring your original plastic (PVC) student ID card, not a cardboard or paper one, for your Salkantay Classic Trek. Without it, your ticket will be invalid, and you’ll have to buy another one. This is a problem because if there are no spaces available, you won’t be able to visit Machu Picchu (you must be 25 years old or younger).
If you don’t have this original ID card or the information required by the government on your student ID, I recommend you buy a regular adult ticket to avoid problems, as we will not be responsible for this.
If you have this information and meet the student requirements, please send it immediately (it won’t be valid if you send it after confirming your reservation) to the government. The government will approve your ticket whether you are a student or not.
FAQs - Salkantay Trek 5 Days: The Ultimate Classic Route to Machu Picchu (2026 Guide)
â Frequently Asked Questions: Salkantay Trek 5 Days
1. How difficult is the Salkantay Trek 5 Days?
The Salkantay Trek is considered challenging (Level 4 out of 5). The most difficult part is Day 2, where you reach the Salkantay Pass at 4,630m (15,190 ft). We recommend having a moderate fitness level and at least 2 days of acclimatization in Cusco before starting.
2. Is Salkantay Trek better than the Inca Trail?
It depends on your preference. The Inca Trail is more historical and has strict permits. The Salkantay Trek is more scenic, offers closer views of glacial mountains, and is the best choice for those seeking adventure, diverse landscapes (from glaciers to jungle), and more flexible booking.
3. Will I see Machu Picchu before the final day?
Yes! Our 5-day itinerary includes a visit to the Llactapata ruins on Day 4. From this unique Inca site, you will enjoy an exclusive, distant view of the Machu Picchu Citadel across the valleyâa perspective that very few travelers get to see.
4. What is the accommodation like (Sky Lodge)?
At Oki Doki Travel, we offer a unique experience. On the first night, you will stay at our exclusive Salkantay Sky Lodge in Soraypampa. These glass-roofed cabins allow you to sleep under the Andean stars with protection from the cold. The following nights include high-quality tents and a comfortable hostel in Aguas Calientes.
5. What should I pack for the 5-day trek?
Essential items include:
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A medium-sized backpack with a rain cover.
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Layered clothing (thermal base, fleece, and waterproof jacket).
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Broken-in hiking boots.
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Sunscreen, insect repellent, and a hat.
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Personal medications for altitude sickness (Soroche).
6. Are Machu Picchu tickets included in the price?
Yes. We handle the entire booking process for your Machu Picchu entrance. We prioritize Circuit 2 (Classic Route) to ensure you get the famous postcard photo. We recommend booking at least 3 months in advance to guarantee the best circuit availability.
Logistics & Planning
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Do I need to acclimatize? Yes. We strictly recommend arriving in Cusco 1 or 2 days before your trek. This helps your body adjust to the 3,400m (11,152 ft) altitude and prevents altitude sickness.
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Best time to hike? The dry season (April to October) offers clear skies and the best views. However, we operate year-round; the rainy season (November to March) offers a greener, more tropical landscape.
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Luggage management: Your main luggage is carried by our muleteers (included). You only carry a small daypack with essentials. We also offer free secure storage at our Cusco office for the gear you don’t need on the trail.
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Charging devices: Some campsites have electricity for a small fee, but availability is limited. We highly recommend bringing a portable power bank.
On the Trail
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Difficulty level: Moderate to Challenging. The hardest part is the Salkantay Pass (4,630 m / 15,190 ft) on Day 2.
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Restrooms & Showers: Our campsites (including the Sky Lodge) have basic facilities. Hot showers are available at some points for a small extra fee (approx. 10-20 soles).
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Special Diets: We cater to vegetarians, vegans, and food allergies at no extra cost. Please notify us during your booking.
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Equipment: We include high-quality tents and mats. Sleeping bags and walking poles are not included but can be rented at our office before departure.
Machu Picchu & Returns
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The Tour: You get a 2-hour guided tour of the citadelâs main sites (Sun Temple, Main Plaza, etc.).
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Is the bus included? The entrance ticket is included, but the shuttle bus from Aguas Calientes to the ruins is not. Most hikers enjoy the 1-hour walk up, but you can buy a bus ticket ($12) on-site.
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Getting back to Cusco: We offer two options:
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Classic: Train from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo + Bus to Cusco.
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Budget: A 3.5-hour walk to Hidroeléctrica + a 7-hour car ride back to Cusco.
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Return from Hidroeléctrica: If you choose the bus return, be prepared for a 3-hour hike along the train tracks after your Machu Picchu visit to catch your transport at 2:30 p.m.
Cusco, Anta Valley, Mollepata, Challacancha, Soraypampa, Humantay Lake, Salkantay Sky Lodge, Salkantay Pass, Vilcabamba Mountain Range, Huayrapunku, Chaullay, Peruvian High Jungle (Cloud Forest), Sahuayaco Beach, Lucmabamba, Llactapata Archaeological Site, Aobamba Valley, Vilcanota Valley, Machu Picchu Hydroelectric, Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu Town), Machu Picchu Citadel, Urban Hurin Sector, Temple of the Sun, Temple of the Condor, Main Plaza, Intihuatana, Ollantaytambo.
Salkantay Trek 5 Days: The Ultimate Classic Route to Machu Picchu (2026 Guide)
Book this tour now
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Starting at Price From:Adult: 350 /per person - Student: 330 /per person
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Tour Name:Salkantay Trek 5 Days: The Ultimate Classic Route to Machu Picchu (2026 Guide)
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Trip duration:5 days / 4 nights
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