Andean Adventure and Natural Relaxation on the Way to Machu Picchu – 5 Days / 4 Nights
DESCRIPTION
Description
The Salkantay Trek with the Cocalmayo hot springs is an experience designed for those who want to enjoy Andean trekking with a perfect balance between physical challenge and relaxation. Along the route, travelers are immersed in high-altitude landscapes dominated by snow-capped peaks, glacial lakes, and verdant valleys, experiencing an authentic connection with the nature of Cusco. This trek stands out for its less crowded nature, allowing you to enjoy the journey at a more relaxed pace and with greater contact with the environment.
The added value of this tour lies in the opportunity to relax in natural hot springs after intense hikes. Cocalmayo offers a moment of pause that transforms the experience into something more complete and comforting. Arriving at Machu Picchu after traversing demanding landscapes and recovering energy in hot springs makes the final visit a special ending, where adventure, wellness and culture are naturally integrated.
ITINERARY
Itinerary
📍Day 1: Cusco – Soraypampa – Humantay Lagoon – Andean Camp
Very early, we depart from Cusco towards Soraypampa, the starting point of the Salkantay Trek. During the journey, the landscape gradually changes until we reach the snow-capped mountains that surround the valley.
From Soraypampa, we begin our hike to Humantay Lagoon, one of Cusco’s most visited natural gems, renowned for its intense turquoise color and glacial setting. After time to rest and take photos, we return to base camp to spend the night surrounded by nature.
🔹 Maximum Altitude: 4,200 m
🔹 Approximate Distance: 12 km
📍Day 2: Soraypampa – Salkantay Pass – Huayracmachay – Chaullay
This day is the most challenging of the Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu. We ascend to the Salkantay Pass (4,650 m), the highest point of the trek, from where we enjoy breathtaking views of the Salkantay mountain and the surrounding glaciers.
After the descent, the landscape gradually changes to greener areas as we enter the Chaullay Valley, where we camp surrounded by rivers and lush vegetation.
🔹 Maximum Altitude: 4,650 m
🔹 Approximate Distance: 18 km
📍Day 3: Chaullay – La Playa – Santa Teresa – Cocalmayo Hot Springs
The third day of the Salkantay Trek, featuring hot springs, offers a more relaxed hike. We trek through coffee plantations, tropical fruit orchards, and small Andean villages, enjoying a milder climate.
In the afternoon, we arrive in Santa Teresa, where we visit the Cocalmayo Hot Springs, one of the most famous thermal complexes in Cusco. Soaking in these natural waters is the perfect way to unwind after days of trekking.
🔹 Altitude: 1,800 m
🔹 Approximate distance: 15 km
📍Day 4: Santa Teresa – Hydroelectric Plant – Aguas Calientes
After breakfast, we head towards Hydroelectric Plant, the starting point for a gentle hike along the railway line. The trail winds through high jungle, past rivers and mountains covered in lush vegetation, marking the transition towards Machu Picchu.
In the afternoon, we arrive in Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu Pueblo), where we rest at a hotel and prepare for the next day’s visit.
🔹 Approximate distance: 10 km
📍Day 5: Machu Picchu – Ollantaytambo – Cusco
Very early, we take a bus up to the citadel of Machu Picchu for a complete guided tour. During the tour, you will see the main temples, plazas, and viewpoints, understanding the historical and spiritual significance of the sanctuary.
After the visit, return by tourist train to Ollantaytambo and land transport to Cusco, closing this unique Salkantay Trek + Cocalmayo Hot Springs experience.
INCLUDES
✅What does the tour include?
✔️Pick-up from your hotel in Cusco
We begin the adventure with a direct pick-up from your accommodation located in the historic center of Cusco.
✔️Tourist transportation as per the program
Includes transportation from Cusco to the starting point of the Salkantay Trek and all necessary transportation along the route.
✔️Certified professional guide (Spanish and English)
Constant accompaniment by a guide specializing in high-altitude trekking, with extensive knowledge of Salkantay, Andean culture, and Machu Picchu.
✔️Support and logistics team on the route
Support staff, cooks, and porters who are responsible for transporting group equipment, preparing meals, and setting up camp.
✔️Full board during the trek
Breakfasts, lunches, and dinners prepared en route with fresh ingredients, specially selected for high-altitude trekking.
✔️Entrance to Humantay Lagoon
Entrance included to one of Cusco’s most impressive natural attractions, located at the foot of the Humantay mountain.
✔️Visit to the Cocalmayo Hot Springs
Access to the natural hot springs to relax and recharge after your hikes.
✔️Entrance to Machu Picchu
Entrance ticket to the Inca citadel for the guided tour, according to the circuit available at the time of booking.
✔️Guided tour of Machu Picchu
Interpretive tour of the main archaeological sites, with historical, cultural, and symbolic explanations.
✔️Tourist train Aguas Calientes – Ollantaytambo
Return by tourist train with panoramic views of the Sacred Valley.
✔️Transportation Ollantaytambo – Cusco
Final ground transfer to Cusco to conclude your experience comfortably and safely.
✔️First aid kit and oxygen
Basic assistance during the trek for immediate attention in case of altitude sickness.
NOT INCLUDED
❌ What’s not included?
✖️Breakfast on the first day and lunch/dinner on the last day
Some meals outside the program are not included, especially before starting the trek and at the end of the tour in Cusco.
✖️Sleeping bag
You can rent one from the agency if you don’t have your own. It is recommended due to the low nighttime temperatures in high-altitude areas.
✖️Trekking poles
Optional. If rented, they must have rubber tips to protect the trails.
✖️Entrance fees to additional mountains in Machu Picchu
Entrance fees to Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain are not included and must be requested in advance.
✖️Personal expenses
Additional drinks, snacks, tips, and personal purchases during the trek.
✖️Travel insurance
It is recommended to purchase insurance that covers trekking and mountain adventure activities.
RECOMMENDATIONS
🌟 Recommendations
✔️Acclimatization in Cusco or the Sacred Valley
Staying at least 1 or 2 days before the tour helps reduce the effects of altitude sickness.
✔️Good physical condition
The Salkantay Trek is demanding in some sections; prior preparation with long hikes is recommended.
✔️Appropriate layered clothing
Temperatures vary greatly between day and night. Bring thermal, waterproof, and quick-drying clothing.
✔️Waterproof trekking boots
Essential for walking safely on uneven terrain.
✔️Sun and rain protection
Sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, and a waterproof poncho are essential.
✔️Respect for the natural environment
Do not leave any trash and always follow the guide’s instructions.
FAQs
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difficulty level of this tour?
The Salkantay Trek with Cocalmayo Hot Springs is of moderate to challenging difficulty, ideal for travelers in good physical condition.
Is visiting the hot springs mandatory?
It is not mandatory. The visit to Cocalmayo is optional, but highly recommended for relaxation.
What is the best time to do the Salkantay Trek?
The best season is from April to October, when there is less rain. December to March is the rainy season.
Can I do this tour if I have no trekking experience?
Yes, provided you are in good physical condition and acclimatize properly before the tour.
Does the tour include entrance to Machu Picchu?
Yes, the package includes entrance to Machu Picchu and a guided tour.
Is it a hike to Machu Picchu?
The final leg of the journey is by bus from Aguas Calientes, after several days of trekking.