Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu 4 Days / 3 Nights

The Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu 4 Days 3 Nights is one of the most popular and scenic alternative treks to the classic Inca Trail. It takes you through diverse landscapes, from the towering Salkantay Mountain to lush cloud forests and finally into the dense tropical jungle surrounding Machu Picchu.

Along the way, you’ll encounter breathtaking views, diverse wildlife, and the opportunity to connect with local Andean communities. This trek is perfect for those seeking an adventure off the beaten path, offering a more tranquil and immersive experience in nature, making it a highly recommended option for any hiker or nature lover.

Choosing the Salkantay Trek 4 Days 3 Nights allows you to experience the very best of the Andes in a shorter time frame, combining natural beauty, adventure, and culture. With expert guides, comfortable camps, and the ultimate reward of reaching Machu Picchu, this trek delivers an unforgettable journey that rivals any other route in Peru.

Overview

Overview:

Embark on the Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu 4 Days 3 Nights and experience one of Peru’s most scenic and diverse trekking routes. From the majestic Salkantay Mountain to the ancient Inca site of Machu Picchu, this journey offers a perfect mix of nature, history, and adventure.

Challenging high-altitude trek through the breathtaking Salkantay Mountain range.
Explore diverse ecosystems, from alpine meadows to cloud forests, offering unique views and wildlife.
Visit Machu Picchu, a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the most iconic landmarks in the world.
Enjoy stunning views of snow-capped peaks, valleys, and ancient Inca ruins throughout the trek.
Experienced local guides and porters to assist you along the trail for safety and comfort.
Camping under the stars, with all necessary equipment and meals provided.

The Salkantay Trek is an unforgettable journey for those looking for a challenging trek that also offers incredible cultural and natural beauty.

Itinerary

Pre-trek briefing:

You will have thorough briefing with your guide 1 or 2 days before your Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu 4 Days 3 Nights. Your guide will meet you at your hotel and you can take this opportunity to ask questions and make any final preparations.

Detailed Itinerary

Day 1: Cusco – Mollepata – Challacancha – Soraypampa – Humantay Lake.

We will start the day with picking you up at your hotel or hostel at 05:00 am. We’ll drive for around 3.5 hours, crossing Anta, Mollepata and end up at Challacancha. Through the windows of the bus you can clearly see the white snowcapped mountains of Salkantay and Huamantay. But also the spectacular scenery of the higher situated areas and the lower valleys with colorful landscapes.

After two hours driving there will be a quick stop in Mollepata town. At Mollepata there are toilet facilities, souvenirs shops and an optional short breakfast. When this short break is over we will soon continue to Challacancha, which is the start of our trail. There we will meet with our support staff. The staff will organize all the equipment, horses and mules. Around 9:30 am. we will start our trek to Soraypampa (3800 m.a.s.l/12,46 ft). The first section of the path is a hike over a few deep valleys. At some parts of the trail the old water channel can still be seen. The channel still supplies water to the farmers in the lower valleys.

The beginning of the trek is 7km (4.35miles) hiking in 3 hours to Soraypampa, where we will have our lunch at the basecamp. After the lunch and a quick nap we continue hiking up to the Humantay Lake (4200 m.a.s.l/13,77 ft). This is a 5km (3.1miles) round trip which we will walk in a total of 3 hours. At the Humantay Lake the bottom of the glacier can be seen, and also the most spectacular views of the background with the valley at sunset.

Soraypampa is located in the middle of the glacier valleys and at night the sky is so immensely clear that we can really appreciate the stars, constellations and even shooting stars.

Walking Distance – 12km / 7.45 miles.
Highest Elevation – 4600 meters / 15090 feet.
Difficulty: Moderate.
Meals: Lunch, Dinner (Snack and afternoon tea).
Accommodation: Camping.
Adventure: Absolutely, completely satisfactory.

Day 2: Soraypampa – Salkantay Pass – Wayracmachay – Chaullay.

After an early wake up with the first daylight at 05:30 am. and a quick breakfast we soon start hiking up to the highest point of the trail: the Salkantay Pass (4617 m.a.s.l/15,14 ft). The distance is a 7km (4.34miles) tough ascent in 3 hours, between the rocky valley bottom and the magnificent Salkantay Mountain (6200 m.a.s.l/20,34 ft).

When we finally reach the top we can and definitely will appreciate the spectacular views of the mountains and the imposing snowy peaks of the Salkantay, Humantay, Tucarhuay and Pumasillo. The Salkantay Mountain is the second highest mountain in the Cusco region and one of the Inca Gods called “Apu”.

After reaching the top of the pass there is a 5km (3.1miles) and 2 hours downhill hike towards the camp for our lunch. The walk downwards is on a serpent shape trail and a rocky gravel path to get to the Huayracmachay lunch spot. In the afternoon we will enter the upper part of the amazon jungle, which is also called “the cloud forest”. This is a 10 km (6.2miles) hike in 3 hours on a wide trail in the thick forests.

This Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu 4 Days 3 Nights is truly beautiful, there are decorated the hills with colorful sceneries and a lot of wildlife and native plants. The forests are most times of the year warm or have a temperate temperature. When finishing this magnificent hike we finally arrive at Chaullay Village (2900 m.a.s.l/9,514 ft), our base camp in the jungle.

Walking Distance – 22 km / 13.7 miles.
Maximum Altitude: 4,615 meters / 15,255 feet.
Difficulty: Challenging – Moderate.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner (Snack and afternoon tea).
Accommodation: Camping.
Adventure: Absolutely.

Day 3: Chaullay – La Playa – Santa Teresa – Hydroelectric – Aguas Calientes.

At 6:00 am. we will start our Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu 4 Days 3 Nights to La Playa through the Santa Teresa valley. We will be hiking approximately 6 hours. During the hike we’ll see: waterfalls, wild orchids, but also coffee, banana and avocado plantations. Here you can taste the famous passion fruit and granadilla fruit.

We will see a village called Colpapampa, also called the “forest cloudy brow” where waterfalls, thermal hot springs, fruit-bearing trees, varied flora and birds can be observed. If we are lucky, we will be able to see the famous bird called “the Cock of the Rocks” this bird is the national bird of Peru.

After lunch at La playa, we will catch a local transportation to the Hidroelectrica train station. Here you will have two options: 1) If you are exhausted you may take the train to Aguas Calientes. 2) If you are still eager to hike you may walk from Hydroelectric to Aguas Calientes for about 3 hours along the train track. Once in Aguas Calientes we will go to the accommodation which is included in the tour.

At 7:00 pm. we will have dinner at a local restaurant. All the expenses in Aguas Calientes are covered by the company. Including: breakfast, lunch, dinner and the overnight at a hotel.

Optional: Train ride from Hidroelectrica to Aguas Calientes ($38.00).

Walking Distance – 26km / 16.1 Miles
Starting Elevation – 2750 meters / 9,022 feet
Difficulty: Easy
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Hotel
Adventure: Absolutely

Day 4: Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu – Ollantaytambo – Cusco.

Start your day early with breakfast at your hotel before boarding one of the first buses to Machu Picchu, ensuring you arrive in time to witness the magical sunrise over the Lost City of the Incas—an unforgettable sight you won’t want to miss.

Upon arrival, your guide will lead a two-hour tour through the most significant areas of Machu Picchu Citadel, explaining its history, architecture, and purpose. Explore the site’s three main sectors: the agricultural terraces, the residential area, and the religious sector, gaining insight into how the Inca civilization once thrived in this awe-inspiring mountain retreat.

After soaking in the spectacular views, take the bus back down to Aguas Calientes, where you’ll have time for lunch (not included). Depending on your train departure, you may also explore the town, visit the local market, stop by the museum, or relax in the hot springs.

In the afternoon, board your train at 2:30 p.m. or 3:20 p.m., following the Urubamba River through the stunning Sacred Valley. As the train winds through the narrow canyon, keep an eye out for the spectacular Wiñay Wayna ruins, visible high up on the mountainside.

After a two-hour journey, you will arrive at Ollantaytambo, where a private bus will be waiting to take you back to Cusco. Upon arrival, we will drop you off at your hotel, concluding your incredible adventure.

Important Note: Machu Picchu archeological site is different from Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain. The mountain requires a separate permit for those wishing to hike it. If you are interested in adding this experience, please let us know in advance so we can arrange it for you.

Overnight in Cusco.
Meals Include: Breakfast.
Entrance Tickets: Included.

Includes

Included:

A pre-trek briefing the night before the start of your Salkantay trek.
Collection from your hotel in the morning of the trek departure.
Private transport from Cusco to Mollepata-Soraypampa and Challacancha (starting point of the Salkantay trek).
Entry fee to Machu Picchu.
Entrance fee to Salkantay trek.
English speaking, experienced professional guide.
Comfortable tents (sleeping 2 people in a 4 person tent).
All camping equipment such as: dining tent, table, chairs, kitchen tent and toilet tent.
Bus ticket from Aguas Calientas to Machu Picchu.
Train ticket from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo.
Private transport from Ollantaytambo to your hotel in Cusco.
Celebration dinner in Aguas Calientes (Touristic Restaurant).
Hotel in Aguas Calientes with private room and bathroom.
Mules and horses (for equipment and personal items) including horsemen – 6 kilos of your personal items.
Basic foam sleeping mattress.
Excellent Meals (3 Breakfasts, 3 Lunches and 3 Dinners).
Food includes pancakes, omelets, soups, fresh fruit, avocado, pasta, chicken, fish, meat, rice, all before rich in carbohydrates and suitable for trekking (Vegetarian, vegan or special diet meals upon request).
Tea time before dinner (tea, coffee, coco, biscuits, popcorn).
Boiled water provided from 2nd day (for drinking).
Wake up coca tea in your tent.
Buckets of hot water for washing in your tent every day.
Biodegradable soap and hand cleansing gel.
Cusco Journeys uses walkie-talkies on all treks.
Oxygen Tank & First aid kit.
All local taxes.

Not Included:

First day breakfast.
Last day Lunch/ dinner.
Train ticket from Hydroelectric to Machu Picchu Town.
Trekking poles.
Sleeping bag.
Entrance in to Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu-$75 (optional).
Horseback available for additional cost.
Extra activities such as zip line and barbecues.
Personal expenses.
Travel insurance.
**Tips for the crew (muleteers, chef and guide).

Bring for the Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu 4 Days 3 Nights:

Hiking to Salkantay Trek To Machu Picchu is like any other high altitude trek, so it is essential to be well prepared. As it begins in the dead of night morning, consider to pack the following Items:

A good daypack: Eagle Creek Afar Backpack –appropriate packs to carry your personal belongings.
Original passport.
Travel insurance.
Swimwear for the hot springs of Aguas calientes Town.
Lighter trekking boots.
3 pairs of trekking pants.
Layers for variable temperatures especially at night
1 rain jacket.
1 warm/Winter jacket.
Thermals: wool socks, gloves, scarf, and woolen hat for cold nights.
4 pairs of underwear and 4 pairs of socks.
4 t-shirts, 2 long sleeve shirts.
1 good sleeping bag.
Travel-size tissues and wet wipes.
Iron tablets and pills for altitude sickness.
Sun protection cream (SPF 35 or higher recommended).
Bug spray.
Re-usable plastic or metal water container or a hydration pack such as Camel back.
Water (only for first day hike). Then we will provide you with water throughout the hike.
Camera and film.
A headlamp.
Bandages or moleskin.
Flip flops to change into at night.
Toiletries.
Personal Medication.
Plastic bags for dirty and wet clothes.
Extra money for souvenirs, drinks, & tips to your staff.
Additional Notes.

Price

The Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu 4 Days 3 Nights offers flexible departures any day of the week, from March through January. However, please be aware that the trek is not available during the month of February, as it is the rainy season.

_{Group Price:}_$509^USD_{Per person}

*A minimum of 3 participants is required to operate the tour. However, we guarantee that your group will be capped at a maximum of 8 people for a more personalized experience.

Private Tour:

Private tours are available and priced by party size.

2-3 Trekkers: $619 per person
4-5 Trekkers: $579 per person
6 or more Trekkers: $539 per person

Important: The price includes up to 6 kilos of your personal belongings to be carried by the mules, so there is no need to hire an additional porter.

Discounts:

18 to 25 years old: $25 USD Information required on student card: name of university, student name, photo of student, expiration date etc. A copy of the card is required at booking for government approval for discount.
Under 18 years old: $25 USD Please send us a copy of your passport at the time of booking.
Under 11 years old: $30 USD Please send us a copy of your passport at the time of booking.

Optional Extras (Need to Book in Advance):

Machu Picchu Mountain climbing: USD 75.00 (Need to book in advance).
Huayna Picchu Mountain climbing: USD 75.00 (Need to book in advance).

Upgrades:

Hotel Upgrades:

Inkaterra (5 star hotel) – US $580 per person per night (double occupancy).
Hotel el Mapi (4 star hotel) – US $105 per person per night (double occupancy).
Santuario Hotel (3+ star hotel) – US $65 per person per night (double occupancy).

Train Upgrades:

Vistadome train or 360 Train -US $65 for trip from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo.
Hiram Bingham train (deluxe) -US $585 for trip from Aguas Calientes to Poroy.

Rentals:

Hiking poles – US$20.00
Sleeping bag – US$25.00
Private Tent – US$30.00

FAQ's

FAQs – Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu 4 Days 3 Nights

1. How difficult is the hike?
The Salkantay Trek is challenging but manageable for moderately fit individuals. It spans 72 kilometers (45 miles) and is more demanding than the Inca Trail. Proper acclimatization in Cuzco for at least 2 days is crucial to avoid altitude sickness.

2. When is the best time to hike the Salkantay?
The best time is during the dry season, from April to November. The trek is busiest from June to September, with May and October offering optimal weather conditions.

3. What is the most challenging section of the hike?
The Salkantay Pass at 4,650 meters (15,000 feet) is the toughest part, marked by cold temperatures and high altitude. Altitude sickness may occur but usually subsides after descending.

4. Is altitude sickness a concern?
Yes, altitude sickness is common at high elevations. Spend at least 2 days in Cuzco to acclimatize, stay hydrated, and avoid alcohol. Symptoms like dizziness and fatigue should be reported to your guide.

5. What happens after I make the deposit?
Once the 40% deposit is made, we’ll confirm your booking and assist with accommodation options in Cusco. Final payment is due two weeks before the trek, and we’ll provide all necessary details to prepare you for the hike.

6. Do I need to request a horse for my backpack?
If you feel unsure about carrying your pack at high altitude, it’s best to request a horse in advance to ease the load.

7. What should I bring for the trek?
Essentials include a good daypack, original passport, warm clothing, rain gear, sturdy trekking boots, sleeping bag (can be rented), and personal medications. We provide boiled water and meals during the trek.

8. What is the accommodation like?
Accommodation consists of community campsites with composting toilets and solar showers for the first two nights. The final night is spent in a simple hotel in Aguas Calientes.

9. What type of food is provided?
We provide high-energy meals including pasta, rice, chicken, eggs, oatmeal, and fresh vegetables. Vegetarian options are available if requested at the time of booking.

10. Is a sleeping bag included?
Sleeping bags are not included, but you can rent one for approximately $20. Foam mats are provided, and trekkers may bring their own self-inflating mat for extra comfort.

Terms & Conditions

By booking or participating in a tour and any related products or services (a “Tour”) with Cusco Journeys, you agree to these Terms & Conditions.

Booking:

Your booking is confirmed and a contract exists when the Tour Operator or your travel agent issues a written confirmation after receipt of the applicable deposit amount. Please check your confirmation carefully and report any incorrect or incomplete information to the Tour Operator or authorized agent immediately. Please ensure that names are exactly as stated in the relevant passport.
You will pay a deposit which is completely non-refundable in any situation. There are no exceptions.
You will be required to show the original passport (not a copy) that you booked with, at the checkpoint to enter the Inca Trail. If you originally booked with an old passport and then renewed your passport, you must also bring your expired passport along with your new, valid passport to permit entry or they will refuse your entrance to the trail.
The only acceptable ID to receive a Student Discount is your University Card with a clear expiration date that must be the same year as trek. IDs with expiry dates the following year, even though clearly valid, will not be accepted by the Peruvian government. You must submit a copy of this card at time of booking.

Cancellations:

Cancellations: In order to confirm this trip, a deposit of 40% is required per person at time of booking. The balance of the trip price is due 90 days before the departure date. Special holiday payment and cancellation terms may apply. Guests who must cancel their trip for any reason must do so in writing (we do not accept medical notes of any kind) as our out of pocket expenses are non-refundable to us.. Standard cancellations are subject to the following per-person penalties, based on number of days prior to departure:

ONCE BOOKED, DEPOSITS ARE NON-REFUNDABLE. CHART BELOW OUTLINES WHAT FURTHER FEES WILL BE DUE.

Cancellation By	Terms
91 days or more before departure	we will retain 50% of your deposit.
90 – 30 days before departure	we will retain 75% of the total tour cost.
29 – 0 days before departure	we will retain 100% of the total tour cost.

Inca Trail Tours:

Permits: Permits for the Inca Trail are in your name and can not be transferred to anyone else under any circumstances. Change of dates is also not possible once a permit has been purchased. Permits are non-refundable and non-transferable. The deposit will be forfeited. Please note that this is a regulation of the Peruvian government and not Cusco Journeys (or any agency).
In extreme cases when the “Inca Trail to Machu Picchu” is declared closed for safety reasons, Cusco Journeys will replace your trek with an alternative trek.
Those who booked PERMITS with a Student ID must bring that ID with them on the trek. If they fail to show this card to the Park Rangers, they will not be allowed entry onto the trail.

Medical Information:

You must advise Cusco Journeys of any medical problems or allergies you may have. You need to be in good physical health, and if your health is questionable, then you should consult a doctor. If you are over the age of 70 years old, then you will need to present us with a current good health medical certificate.
You are responsible for assessing whether a Tour is suitable for you. You should consult your physician to confirm your fitness for travel and participation in any planned activities. You should seek your physician’s advice on vaccinations and medical precautions. The Tour Operator does not provide medical advice. It is your responsibility to assess the risks and requirements of each aspect of the Tour based on your own unique circumstances, limitations, fitness level and medical requirements.
Cusco Journeys reserves the right to deny you permission to travel or participate in any aspect of a Tour at any time and at your own risk and expense where the Tour Operator determines that your physical or mental condition renders you unfit for travel or you represent a danger to yourself or others.
Pregnancy is considered a medical condition and must be disclosed to the Tour Operator at the time of booking. The Tour Operator may refuse to carry pregnant women over 24 weeks. The Tour Operator may refuse to carry anyone with certain medical conditions if reasonable accommodation or alternatives cannot be arranged.
It is strongly encouraged to purchase Travel Insurance to protect you in case of medical emergency or any tour cancellations.

Tours and Treks:

All balances need to be paid in either cash, Western Union, Transfer Bank or PayPal (in full) prior to the briefing which will be held the night before your tour. Visa incurs a 5% service fee and if you need to use another card, it must be through PayPal which incurs a 5.5% service fee.
You must advise your guide if you wish to leave the group or the camping area for independent walks or sightseeing. If you are experiencing any problems with the services of the guide or tour, please advise the guide in that moment, so that he can resolve any problems.
All Adventure Treks include transportation to Cusco. The return train route depends on train availability.
If you become ill or injured on the trail and are unable to continue, a porter will be provided to accompany you back to an area with emergency assistance capabilities. Helicopter air lifts and medical assistance are at the expense of the trekker. If you are unable to complete the tour due to illness, we will assist you in meeting your group at Machu Picchu to recommence your tour at that point. There will be no refund of the original payment. However, we will prepare a document to certify illness which can be presented for your travel insurance.
Cusco Journeys will take all reasonable care in providing to our clients avoidance of accident, illness, and loss of personal property, and will only employ suitably qualified staff. We accept responsibility for the actions of our own employees. Cusco Journeys cannot, however, be responsible for any action of third parties. You are totally responsible for your own personal property and rented equipment.
Cusco Journeys does not take responsibility for unfavorable weather conditions, natural catastrophe, strikes, accidents, illness, injury, loss of personal ítems, etc. It is the client’s responsibility to carry insurance to cover these types of events. We reserve the right to modify or cancel the program due to any of the unforeseen conditions listed above.
Cusco Journeys may modify your itinerary where reasonably required in its sole discretion.
Group tours might be as large as 16 participants. Groups are open to everyone no matter skill or age. By accepting a Group Tour you acknowledge that others might change the speed and timing of the tour.
All tours are done in English.

Delays:

Any costs, whether direct or incidental, incurred by the Customer as the result of delays caused by bad weather, trail conditions, river levels, road conditions, transportation delays, sickness, government intervention or other contingencies which are beyond the control of southern explorations will not be reimbursed.

Thank you so much for choosing Cusco Journeys!!!

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Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu 4 Days / 3 Nights

Overview

Overview:

Itinerary

Pre-trek briefing:

Detailed Itinerary

Day 1: Cusco – Mollepata – Challacancha – Soraypampa – Humantay Lake.

Day 2: Soraypampa – Salkantay Pass – Wayracmachay – Chaullay.

Day 3: Chaullay – La Playa – Santa Teresa – Hydroelectric – Aguas Calientes.

Day 4: Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu – Ollantaytambo – Cusco.

Includes

Included:

Not Included:

Bring for the Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu 4 Days 3 Nights:

Price

Group Price:$509USDPer person

Private Tour:

Discounts:

Optional Extras (Need to Book in Advance):

Upgrades:

Rentals:

FAQ's

FAQs – Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu 4 Days 3 Nights

Terms & Conditions

Cancellation By

Terms

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