Salkantay trek to Machu Picchu 4 days 3 nights

  • Departures
    Availability Daily departures
  • Hotel pickup
    Transporte Hotel pickup
  • Tour guide
    Tour Guide Tour guide included
  • Languages
    Available languages Spanish, English & Portuguese
  • Group
    Service type Shared service
  • Cancellation
    Cancellation policy Non-refundable
  • Altitude
    Maximum altitude 3,850 m.a.s.l.
  • Difficulty
    Difficulty Intermediate

The Salkantay Trek 4D/3N combines adventure, culture and dream landscapes. It is a demanding but very rewarding hike, considered one of the best trekking routes in the world by National Geographic. Every day it will surprise you with different settings: snow-capped mountains, Andean valleys, waterfalls and a unique transition to the Amazon jungle.

Along the way, we will camp in stunning locations under starry skies, mingle with local communities, and discover the mystical energy of snow-capped Salkantay. We will culminate the experience by arriving at Machu Picchu, where you will learn about the history and architecture of the last bastion of the Inca Empire. This journey is perfect for those seeking to connect with nature and discover the greatness of Peru by walking step by step.

Itinerary

Day 01 Cusco – Mollepata – Humantay Lake – Soraypampa (3,850 m)

Very early in the morning, you will leave Cusco towards the picturesque town of Mollepata, where you will enjoy a delicious Andean breakfast before starting the walk. Then, you will begin the ascent towards the impressive Humantay Lagoon, a turquoise mirror surrounded by snow-capped mountains. This place is perfect for taking photos and recharging energy before continuing to the first camp.

In the afternoon, you will arrive at Soraypampa (3,850 meters), at the foot of the majestic Nevado Salkantay, the second highest peak in the Cusco region. Here you will enjoy a hot dinner and can rest under a sky full of stars. The sound of the wind and the natural environment create a magical atmosphere ideal to start this journey.

Day 02 Soraypampa – Salkantay Pass – Chaullay (2,900 m)

After a nutritious breakfast, we will begin the ascent to the highest point of the route, the Salkantay Pass (4,650 meters). This will be the most challenging section but also the most spectacular, surrounded by glaciers, snow-capped peaks and views that seem straight out of a postcard. From the top, you can appreciate the grandeur of the Nevado Salkantay, considered sacred by the ancient Incas.

Then, you will begin the descent towards the tropical zone, where the landscape changes drastically. The cold mountain winds give way to the humid heat of the cloud forest, full of vegetation, exotic birds and waterfalls. You will arrive at the Chaullay camp, where a well-deserved dinner and a restful rest in the middle of nature will await you.

Day 03 Chaullay – Playa Sahuayaco – Aguas Calientes (2,040 m)

The third day is a more relaxed day. We will walk down to Sahuayaco Beach, passing fruit plantations, tropical flowers and coffee farms. Here you can visit a local farm to learn about the artisanal production of Peruvian coffee, a unique cultural experience.

After lunch, you will take transportation to Hidroeléctrica, from where you will walk along the Urubamba River until you reach the town of Aguas Calientes, also known as Machu Picchu Pueblo. This day will conclude with dinner at a local restaurant and accommodation in a comfortable hotel, preparing you for the long-awaited visit to Machu Picchu the next day.

Day 04 Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu – Cusco

This is the big day of your adventure. Very early, you will climb to the citadel of Machu Picchu (2,430 meters), where you will enjoy the sunrise over the sacred mountains. Your guide will take you through the main temples, terraces and viewpoints of the ancient Inca city, explaining its history, architecture and spirituality.

After the guided tour, you will have free time to explore, take photographs or climb the Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain viewpoint (optional). Finally, we will descend to Aguas Calientes to board the return train to Cusco. You will arrive at dusk with a heart full of satisfaction, unforgettable memories and the spiritual connection that only Machu Picchu can offer.

Important note: Schedules are for reference only. One day before the tour, our operations team will contact you to reconfirm the schedules.

Inclusions

What’s Included

  • Transportation from Cusco to the start of the trek
  • Professional bilingual guide (Spanish/English)
  • Complete food during the walk (breakfast, lunch, dinner)
  • Camping equipment (tents, mats, utensils)
  • Horses or mules to load luggage
  • Entrance to the Sanctuary of Machu Picchu
  • Hotel night in Aguas Calientes
  • Tren de return from Cusco (Expedition o similar)
  • First aid kit and oxygen
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What’s Not Included

  • First breakfast and last lunch in Aguas Calientes
  • Optional entry to Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain
  • Sleeping bag (can be rented)
  • Tips for guides, muleteers or cooks
  • Personal expenses

Frequently asked questions

What is the difficulty of the Salkantay Trek?

It is a moderate to demanding level hike, ideal for people in good physical condition.

What is the best time to do the trek?

From April to October, during the dry season, when the roads are in better condition.

Is a permit like the Inca Trail necessary?

No, the Salkantay Trek does not require special permits, so there is availability all year round.

How high is the maximum point of the trek?

The highest point is the Salkantay Pass (4,650 meters above sea level).

Can I rent equipment in Cusco?

Yes, you can rent sleeping bags, walking sticks and other supplies before starting the tour.

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Carmelo G.

jun. 2026 • Parejas

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Fue una linda experiencia y un servicio muy profesional de la agencia.

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ago. 2026

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Lucianna B.

ago. 2026

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Agostina Z.

ago. 2026

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Hermosa experiencia en familia. Tanto el traslado, el hotel como el guía fueron excelentes!

Mónica B.

ago. 2026

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