Popular

Salkantay Trek 4D/3N

4 Days & 3 Nights

Hotel 3 estrellas

Up to 16

4,630m / 15,190ft

challenging

4 days / 3 nights

16 pax

challenging

4,630m

Overview

Spectacular trek connecting to Machu Picchu. Views of glaciers, mountains, Humantay Lake and lush vegetation, making this hike one of the most beautiful in Peru.

The Salkantay Trek is a spectacular trek connecting to Machu Picchu through breathtaking landscapes. You will enjoy views of glaciers, snow-capped mountains, Humantay Lake and abundant tropical vegetation, making this hike one of the most beautiful in Peru.

Over 4 days you will cross diverse ecosystems, from the glacial heights of Mount Salkantay (6,271 m) to the lush cloud forest. An exceptional alternative to the classic Inca Trail that combines nature, adventure and the magic of Machu Picchu.

Itinerary at a Glance

Cusco – Mollepata – Soraypampa – Humantay Lake

Soraypampa – Salkantay Pass – Collpapampa

Collpapampa – Inca Paths – Hidroelectrica – Aguas Calientes

Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu – Cusco

Experience Highlights

Itinerary at a Glance

Day 1

Cusco – Mollepata – Soraypampa – Humantay Lake

Pickup from your hotel in Cusco at 4:00 AM. Approximately 3.5-hour drive to Mollepata/Challacancha, the starting point of our hike.

We will begin the hike to the Soraypampa Lodge, where we will enjoy a comforting lunch. In the afternoon, we will ascend to the stunning Humantay Lake, a turquoise gem surrounded by glaciers.

Overnight at Lodge in Soraypampa. Distance: 10 km. Hiking time: 5-6 hours. Difficulty: moderate to challenging. Maximum elevation: 4,200 m.

Accommodation

Campsite at Soraypampa

Max Altitude

3,900 msnm

Meals

Lunch, Dinner

Day 2

Soraypampa – Salkantay Pass – Collpapampa

The most challenging day of the trek. Hike through Salkantay Pampa with impressive views of the Salkantay glacier until reaching the highest point of the trek at 4,630 m altitude.

Descent to Wayracmachay where we will enjoy lunch. We will continue descending and enter the cloud forest, observing the dramatic landscape change from glacial heights to tropical vegetation.

Overnight at Collpapampa Lodge. Distance: 22 km. Hiking time: 9-10 hours. Difficulty: challenging.

Accommodation

Lodge in Lucmabamba

Max Altitude

4,630 msnm

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 3

Collpapampa – Inca Paths – Hidroelectrica – Aguas Calientes

Hike through the Inca Path Network, ancestral trails that connected different points of the empire. We will cross tropical jungle landscapes with abundant vegetation and wildlife.

We will arrive at Playa Sahuayaco and continue to Hidroelectrica Station. From here we will take transport or walk along the train tracks to Aguas Calientes, the base town of Machu Picchu.

Dinner and accommodation in Aguas Calientes. Distance: 27 km. Hiking time: 6-7 hours.

Accommodation

Hotel in Aguas Calientes

Max Altitude

2,000 msnm

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch

Day 4

Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu – Cusco

Early in the morning we will take the Consettur bus to the Machu Picchu citadel. Our professional guide will lead a guided tour of approximately 2 hours through the main highlights of the Inca city.

After the guided tour, you will have free time to explore on your own and enjoy this magical place. Afterwards we will descend to Aguas Calientes to take the train to Ollantaytambo and then the return bus to Cusco.

Distance: 6 km. Difficulty: easy.

Accommodation

Max Altitude

2,430 msnm

Meals

Breakfast

What Is Included?

Included

Orientation and information meeting
Transportation, pickup, transfers and train
Certified bilingual guides
Emergency kit with oxygen
2 nights in lodges + 1 night in Aguas Calientes
Complete camping equipment
Humantay Lake ticket + Machu Picchu entrance
Professional chef, vegan options available
3 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 3 dinners and snacks
Mule cargo (5 kg per person)
Consettur bus to Machu Picchu

Not Included

Sleeping bag and trekking poles
Day 1 breakfast
Day 4 lunch and dinner
Hidroelectrica-Aguas Calientes train (optional)
Personal gear and travel insurance
Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain tickets

Before You Go

Recommendations

Acclimatize at least 2-3 days in Cusco before the trek

Train cardio and elevation hikes in the weeks before

Bring layered clothing, waterproof gear and broken-in trekking shoes

Sunscreen, sunglasses and hat are essential

Bring water, energy snacks and personal hygiene items

Prepare for drastic temperature changes between ecosystems

If you experience altitude sickness symptoms, inform the guide immediately

Pricing

2026 Tour Price

Price per person

US$560

This tour is guaranteed to operate with a minimum of 2 people. Prices may vary according to season.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How difficult is the Salkantay Trek?

It is a challenging trek. Day 2 is the most demanding with the ascent to the Salkantay Pass (4,630 m). Good physical condition and prior acclimatization of at least 2-3 days in Cusco are required.

What is the difference between the Salkantay and the Inca Trail?

The Salkantay does not require limited permits like the Inca Trail, offers more varied landscapes (glaciers to jungle), lodge accommodation instead of tents, and is generally more affordable. Both end at Machu Picchu.

Can I do the Salkantay without trekking experience?

Some experience with long hikes and good physical condition is recommended. Day 2 is very demanding. Prior acclimatization in Cusco is essential.

What is the best time for the trek?

The best time is from April to October (dry season). May, June and September offer the best weather. Unlike the Inca Trail, the Salkantay does not close in February.

Can children do this trek?

It is recommended for those over 12 years old in good physical condition and acclimatized to altitude. The demands of day 2 require considerable physical endurance.