Salkantay Trek Exclusive to Machu Picchu – 4 Days
The 4-Day Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu is an ideal route for travelers looking for a complete adventure experience in a shorter timeframe, combining snow-capped mountains, Andean lakes, ancient Inca trails, cloud forests, and a final visit to Machu Picchu.
During the journey, you will hike through the breathtaking landscapes of the Salkantay mountain range, visit the stunning Humantay Lake, and cross the impressive Salkantay Pass, the highest point of the route. As the trek progresses, the scenery changes from cold high-altitude landscapes to warmer and greener valleys, showcasing the incredible natural diversity of Cusco.
The experience also includes a visit to the archaeological site of Llaqtapata, where you can enjoy a distant view of Machu Picchu before continuing toward Aguas Calientes. The final day is dedicated to a guided visit of Machu Picchu, one of the wonders of the world and the perfect conclusion to this unforgettable trekking adventure.
Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu 4-Day Tour Itinerary
CUSCO – MOLLEPATA – CHALLACANCHA – SORAYPAMPA – HUMANTAY LAKE
Hotel pickup in Cusco is scheduled for approximately 5:00 a.m.. The group travels for around 2 hours by private transportation to Mollepata, where the cook serves the first breakfast of the trek while we enjoy the mountain landscapes and agricultural valleys of the region.
After breakfast, we continue for approximately 30 more minutes to Challacancha (3,600 m / 11,811 ft), the starting point of the trek. Here, our support team will be waiting with horses and mules to transport the camping equipment and food throughout the route.
The hike begins at around 9:30 a.m.. The trail follows a stone path alongside an ancient water canal that supplies local communities, with impressive views of the Humantay and Salkantay snow-capped mountains. After approximately 3 hours of hiking and 10 km (6.2 miles), we arrive at Soraypampa (3,900 m / 12,795 ft), where the cook will prepare lunch. From this point, we will enjoy wide views of the mountain landscape surrounding the campsite.
In the afternoon, after a short rest, we will begin the round-trip hike to the impressive Humantay Lake (4,200 m / 13,779 ft). The ascent takes approximately 1 hour and 20 minutes, leading us to a turquoise-colored lake located at the foot of Humantay Mountain, considered one of the most photographed places along the entire Salkantay route.
After enjoying this breathtaking scenery, we return to Soraypampa, arriving around sunset with views of the glaciers glowing in the evening light. Finally, we will enjoy dinner and rest in the eco-cabins at the campsite.
- Approximate starting time: 5:00 a.m. (hotel pickup).
- Hiking start time: approximately 9:30 a.m.
- Hiking time: approximately 5 hours.
- Distance: approximately 14 km / 8.7 miles.
- Weather: cool and windy, with colder temperatures at night.
- Altitudes:
- Cusco: 3,350 m / 10,990 ft.
- Mollepata: 2,900 m / 9,514 ft.
- Challacancha: 3,600 m / 11,811 ft.
- Soraypampa: 3,900 m / 12,795 ft.
- Humantay Lake: 4,200 m / 13,779 ft.
- Accommodation: Eco-cabins in Soraypampa.
SORAYPAMPA – SALKANTAY PASS – HUAYRACMACHAY – CHAULLAY – LORETA LA PLAYA
Hotel pickup in Cusco is scheduled for approximately 5:00 a.m.. The group travels for around 2 hours by private transportation to Mollepata, where the cook serves the first breakfast of the trek while we enjoy the mountain landscapes and agricultural valleys of the region.
After breakfast, we continue for approximately 30 more minutes to Challacancha (3,600 m / 11,811 ft), the starting point of the trek. Here, our support team will be waiting with horses and mules to transport the camping equipment and food throughout the route.
The hike begins at around 9:30 a.m.. The trail follows a stone path alongside an ancient water canal that supplies local communities, with impressive views of the Humantay and Salkantay snow-capped mountains. After approximately 3 hours of hiking and 10 km (6.2 miles), we arrive at Soraypampa (3,900 m / 12,795 ft), where the cook will prepare lunch. From this point, we will enjoy wide views of the mountain landscape surrounding the campsite.
In the afternoon, after a short rest, we will begin the round-trip hike to the impressive Humantay Lake (4,200 m / 13,779 ft). The ascent takes approximately 1 hour and 20 minutes, leading us to a turquoise-colored lake located at the foot of Humantay Mountain, considered one of the most photographed places along the entire Salkantay route.
After enjoying this breathtaking scenery, we return to Soraypampa, arriving around sunset with views of the glaciers glowing in the evening light. Finally, we will enjoy dinner and rest in the eco-cabins at the campsite.
- Approximate starting time: 5:00 a.m. (hotel pickup).
- Hiking start time: approximately 9:30 a.m.
- Hiking time: approximately 5 hours.
- Distance: approximately 14 km / 8.7 miles.
- Weather: cool and windy, with colder temperatures at night.
- Altitudes:
- Cusco: 3,350 m / 10,990 ft.
- Mollepata: 2,900 m / 9,514 ft.
- Challacancha: 3,600 m / 11,811 ft.
- Soraypampa: 3,900 m / 12,795 ft.
- Humantay Lake: 4,200 m / 13,779 ft.
- Accommodation: Eco-cabins in Soraypampa.
LORETA LA PLAYA – HYDROELECTRIC STATION – AGUAS CALIENTES TOWN
The day begins early in Soraypampa, with the group waking up around 5:00 a.m.. After enjoying a hot breakfast and preparing for the day, we begin one of the most impressive hikes of the Salkantay route.
From the campsite, we continue through the Salkantay Valley, gradually ascending for approximately one hour until reaching Pampa Salkantay (4,200 m / 13,779 ft), where we will take a short break to rest and appreciate the high-mountain surroundings.
We continue hiking through a rocky landscape for approximately two more hours until reaching Salkantay Pass (4,630 m / 15,190 ft), the highest point of the entire route. From here, we will enjoy a privileged view of the impressive Salkantay Mountain (6,271 m / 20,574 ft) and Humantay Mountain, surrounded by glaciers, peaks, and Andean valleys. This area also offers the possibility of spotting Andean condors flying above the mountain summits.
After enjoying the scenery, we begin the descent along a mountain trail toward Huayracmachay, where our cook will be waiting with lunch around midday.
In the afternoon, we continue descending toward the cloud forest, where the landscape gradually changes from the high Andean plains into a warmer environment with more vegetation and a mild climate. The hike continues until reaching Chaullay (2,900 m / 9,514 ft), arriving approximately between 4:00 and 4:30 p.m.
From Chaullay, transportation will take us to Lodge Loreta La Playa, where we will arrive around 5:00 p.m.. After settling in, we can relax while enjoying a hot drink accompanied by coffee, cookies, and popcorn before dinner.
- Approximate starting time: 5:00 a.m.
- Hiking start time: approximately 6:30 a.m.
- Hiking time: between 8 and 9 hours.
- Distance: approximately 19 km / 11.8 miles.
- Weather: cold and windy in the high-altitude areas; mild and warmer during the descent toward the cloud forest.
- Altitudes:
- Soraypampa: 3,900 m / 12,795 ft.
- Pampa Salkantay: 4,200 m / 13,779 ft.
- Salkantay Pass: 4,630 m / 15,190 ft.
- Huayracmachay: approx. 3,800 m / 12,467 ft.
- Chaullay: 2,900 m / 9,514 ft.
- Accommodation: Geodesic dome at Lodge Loreta La Playa.
AGUAS CALIENTES TOWN – MACHU PICCHU – OLLANTAYTAMBO – CUSCO
The day begins early in Aguas Calientes with breakfast at the hotel. After meeting with our guide, we will head to the entrance checkpoint of Machu Picchu, one of the most important archaeological wonders in the world.
The transfer to the citadel can be done by tourist bus from Aguas Calientes (approximately 30 minutes) or by hiking up the ascending trail, depending on the group’s schedule and available time.
Upon entering Machu Picchu (2,430 m / 7,972 ft), we will enjoy a guided tour through its main archaeological sectors. Our guide will explain the history, architecture, and significance of this ancient Inca site while exploring the most representative areas of the citadel and enjoying panoramic views of the mountains surrounding the sanctuary.
After the visit, we return to Aguas Calientes to have some free time before boarding the return train to Ollantaytambo. The train journey crosses the Sacred Valley, following the Urubamba River and offering beautiful views of mountains and Andean vegetation.
Upon arrival in Ollantaytambo, our transportation will take us back to the city of Cusco, arriving approximately in the afternoon or evening, depending on the assigned train schedule.
We conclude our Salkantay route adventure to Machu Picchu, combining high-mountain landscapes, cloud forests, and one of Peru’s most important cultural experiences.
- Approximate starting time: 5:00 a.m. (according to the assigned Machu Picchu entrance time).
- Machu Picchu visit time: approximately 2 to 3 hours.
- Travel time:
- Aguas Calientes – Ollantaytambo: approximately 1 hour 40 minutes by train.
- Ollantaytambo – Cusco: approximately 1 hour 30 minutes by transportation.
- Weather: mild, with possible sunshine and occasional rainfall.
- Altitudes:
- Aguas Calientes: 2,000 m / 6,562 ft.
- Machu Picchu: 2,430 m / 7,972 ft.
- Ollantaytambo: 2,800 m / 9,186 ft.
- Cusco: 3,350 m / 10,990 ft.
- Accommodation: Not included (tour ends in Cusco).
View Route Map
What's Included?
- Informative briefing with the guide, 1 or 2 days before departure, at our office in Cusco.
- Hotel pickup in Cusco on the tour starting day.
- Private transportation from Cusco to Challacancha, the starting point of the trek.
- Professional tour guide throughout the entire journey.
- Cook and kitchen assistant for all trekking meals.
- Transportation of up to 7 kg (15 lbs) of personal luggage per trekker, using a duffel bag provided during the briefing.
- The duffel bags will be available at the second campsite; during the hike, you will only carry a small daypack with water and personal essentials.
- Entrance tickets to Humantay Lake and Machu Picchu.
- Full meals included: 4 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 2 afternoon snacks, and 3 dinners.
- Vegetarian meals or special dietary requirements available at no additional cost, upon prior request.
- Boiled water available for refilling your bottle throughout the trek.
- First aid kit and emergency oxygen tank carried by the guide.
- Transportation from Chaullay to Eco Lodge Majestic Sky Domes in Playa Sahuayaco.
- Authentic visit to a local coffee farm.
- Campfire night at Eco Lodge Sky Domes.
- Hike from Hydroelectric Station to Aguas Calientes.
- Round-trip tourist bus tickets between Aguas Calientes and Machu Picchu.
- Machu Picchu entrance ticket and a 2-hour guided tour inside the citadel.
- Return train ticket on the Expedition service from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo.
- Private transportation from Ollantaytambo train station to Cusco.
- 3 nights of accommodation in single, double, matrimonial, or triple rooms, according to availability and request:
- 1st night: Rustic wooden cabin at a private campsite in Soraypampa.
- 2nd night: Geodesic dome with private bathroom at Eco Lodge Majestic Sky Domes, Playa Sahuayaco.
- 3rd night: Hotel La Retama or similar, in Aguas Calientes.
Not Included
- Personal expenses and items.
- First breakfast in Mollepata.
- Last lunch in Aguas Calientes.
More Information About the Trek
Recommended Personal Packing List
Although many travelers think that the weather in this part of South America is always warm, temperatures during the Salkantay Trek can vary considerably. In higher-altitude areas, the cold can be intense, especially at night, while the cloud forest region generally has a warmer and more humid climate.
For this reason, we recommend reviewing this list before starting the 5-Day Salkantay Trek. Bringing the proper equipment will help you enjoy a more comfortable, safe, and organized experience throughout the hike. If you do not have any of these items, you can purchase or rent them in Cusco before departure, as the city has specialized trekking gear stores.
Documents
- Original passport
- Student ID card, if applicable
- Copies of travel insurance documents
Essential Items
- Small daypack
- Sleeping bag
- Reusable water bottle
- Water purification tablets or water filter
- Energy snacks such as cookies, candy, chocolate, or cereal bars
- Cash for personal purchases, souvenirs, or tips
Clothing and Footwear
- Trekking shoes and comfortable sandals
- Warm clothing for cold nights: thermal jacket, gloves, scarf, wool socks, and beanie
- Waterproof jacket and rain poncho
- Lightweight or technical hiking clothing: hiking pants, socks, shorts, and trekking shirts
- Swimsuit
- Hat or cap for sun protection
Health and Personal Protection
- Basic personal first aid kit with bandages and personal medications
- Insect repellent
- Sunscreen
- Lip balm
Personal Hygiene
- Quick-dry towel
- Dental care kit
- Biodegradable soap
- Shampoo and conditioner
- Toilet paper
Recommended Accessories
- Headlamp
- Sunglasses
- Camera with memory card and extra batteries
- Trekking poles with rubber tips (optional)
- Plastic bags to separate wet clothing or protect personal belongings
* We recommend arriving in Cusco at least 2 days before the tour for proper acclimatization and to ensure good overall health before starting the trek.
Does the tour include a visit to Humantay Lake?
Yes, on the first day of the trek, we hike to Humantay Lake, one of the most outstanding natural attractions along the entire route.
What is the highest point of this Salkantay Trek?
The highest point of the route is Salkantay Pass, located at 4,630 m / 15,190 ft, where you can enjoy direct views of Salkantay Mountain and Humantay Mountain.
How difficult is this trek?
This is a moderate to challenging trek, especially on the second day due to the ascent to Salkantay Pass. Good physical condition and at least 2 days of acclimatization in Cusco before starting the trek are recommended.
Where do we spend the nights during the trek?
Accommodation is arranged as follows: the first night in cabins at Soraypampa, the second night in geodesic domes at Eco Lodge Majestic Sky Domes in Playa Sahuayaco, and the third night in a hotel in Aguas Calientes.
Is the Machu Picchu entrance ticket included?
Yes, the Machu Picchu entrance ticket and a 2-hour guided tour inside the citadel are included in the program.
Is luggage transported during the trek?
Yes, transportation of up to 7 kg (15 lbs) of personal luggage by horse is included. The duffel bag used to organize your belongings is provided during the pre-trek briefing.
What meals are included in the tour?
The program includes 4 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 2 afternoon snacks, and 3 dinners. Vegetarian meals or special dietary requirements can also be requested at no additional cost.
How do we get from Hydroelectric Station to Aguas Calientes?
There are two options: take the train, a short ride that is not included in the tour price, or continue hiking alongside the railway tracks along the Urubamba River, passing by the Intihuatana archaeological site.
Important
- Spaces are assigned continuously among all authorized tour operators operating on the route, so availability may sell out without prior notice.
- We recommend confirming your reservation as early as possible to secure your spot.
- Please note that a minimum of 2 people is required to book this trek.
- We specialize in group travel experiences, so if you are traveling with friends, family, or children, please contact us to receive our special promotions.
- If you would like a PRIVATE TOUR, request your quote by email at: info@incredibleperutours.com or WhatsApp: +51 984525006
Exclusive Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu 4 Days / 3 Nights Prices
This service operates as a semi-private tour: the group travels exclusively with friends or family members, without being combined with other travelers. All prices include the services detailed in the “What’s Included” section.
| NUMBER OF TRAVELERS | PRICE PER PERSON |
| From 2 to 3 people: | USD 650 per person |
| From 4 to 5 people: | USD 620 per person |
| From 6 to 7 people: | USD 580 per person |
| From 8 to 9 people: | USD 540 per person |
| 10 or more people: | USD 500 per person |
Optional Services
The following services can be added to the tour at an additional cost, up to one day before departure, at our main office in Cusco’s Historic Center.
- Trekking pole rental for the entire route: USD 15 per pair.
- Huayna Picchu entrance ticket: USD 75. Maximum capacity of 400 people per day. Request at the time of booking, subject to availability.
- Machu Picchu Mountain entrance ticket: USD 75.
- Maximum capacity of 400 people per day.
- Request at the time of booking, subject to availability.
- Cusco airport pickup and transfer to your hotel: USD 10 per person.
- Hotel pickup and transfer to Cusco airport: USD 10 per person.
- Vistadome train upgrade from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo: USD 40 per person.
