5-Day Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu with Sky Domes

Itinerary

Day 1: Cusco – Mollepata – Soraypampa – Sky Dome Camp

We’ll pick you up early from your hotel in Cusco and drive to Mollepata, where you’ll enjoy a fresh breakfast. From here, we’ll continue by vehicle to Challacancha, the starting point of your hike. The trail today is gradual and scenic, giving you time to adjust to the altitude and enjoy views of rolling hills and the first glimpse of the Salkantay Mountain.

After a 3-hour hike, you’ll reach Soraypampa (3,900m), where our luxurious Sky Domes await. Enjoy lunch, relax, and later in the afternoon, take a short acclimatization hike to the breathtaking Humantay Lake, with its surreal turquoise waters reflecting the glaciers above. Return for a cozy dinner and fall asleep under a sky full of stars.

Hiking distance: ~10 km / 6.2 mi
Accommodation: Sky Dome
Meals: Lunch, Dinner

Day 2: Soraypampa – Salkantay Pass – Huayracmachay – Chaullay

After an early breakfast, we begin the most challenging—but rewarding—day of the trek. You’ll ascend to the Salkantay Pass (4,650m), the highest point of the trek, with unmatched panoramic views of snow-covered peaks.

After celebrating the summit, descend through a dramatic shift in landscape—from alpine tundra to tropical cloud forest. Along the way, you’ll observe orchids, hummingbirds, and waterfalls as we make our way to the village of Chaullay (2,900m).

Hiking distance: ~22 km / 13.7 mi
Accommodation: Jungle Eco-Dome
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 3: Chaullay – La Playa – Lucmabamba

Today’s hike winds through lush coffee and banana plantations, with the chance to interact with local families and see how coffee is harvested and processed. After lunch in La Playa, continue to Lucmabamba, where you’ll rest in a tranquil campsite.

In the afternoon, enjoy a coffee experience and learn how to roast and grind your own organic coffee beans. This is also a great night to enjoy the hot showers and stargazing.

Hiking distance: ~15 km / 9.3 mi
Accommodation: Jungle Dome
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 4: Lucmabamba – Llactapata – Hydroelectric – Aguas Calientes

This morning, we take an ancient Inca trail up to the Llactapata ruins, a remote site with rare views of Machu Picchu from a unique angle. After a short rest, descend to the Hydroelectric station, where you’ll enjoy lunch.

From here, it’s a 3-hour flat walk along the railway to Aguas Calientes, the base town of Machu Picchu. Check in to your hotel and relax before your big day tomorrow.

Hiking distance: ~18 km / 11.1 mi
Accommodation: Hotel in Aguas Calientes
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 5: Machu Picchu Tour – Return to Cusco

After an early breakfast, you’ll take the first bus up to Machu Picchu, entering the citadel in the early morning light. Please note that the exact route inside Machu Picchu depends on the circuit and entrance time reserved in advance, which is based on how far ahead your permit was secured. Whenever possible, we prioritize Circuit 2, as it offers a more comprehensive and scenic experience.

Enjoy a 2.5-hour guided tour, learning the history and architecture of this ancient wonder. After the guided visit, you’ll have free time to explore or climb Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain (optional, limited permits).

Then return to Aguas Calientes to catch the train to Ollantaytambo, followed by a private transfer to Cusco.

Meals: Breakfast