How difficult is the Salkantay Trek?

Moderate to challenging. The second day (Salkantay Pass) is the most demanding due to the altitude.

Is a permit required?

No special permit is needed — only the Machu Picchu entrance, which is included in the package.

Trekking shoes, sleeping bag, warm layers, rain jacket, sunscreen, and water bottle.

Can I ride a horse if I get tired?

Yes, horses are available (optional and paid locally) during certain sections of the trek.

When is the best time to go?

From April to October (dry season) — the best weather for trekking and clear mountain views.

Salktantay to Machu Picchu 4D/3N -

Maximum Altitude
2,040 – 4,650 m a.s.l.
Guide
Professional bilingual mountain guide
Best Season
April – October
Language
English / Spanish
Payment Method
Cash, card, or online booking before departure
Meeting Point
Hotel (Cusco city center)
Destinations
Cusco
Activities
Culture, Trekking
Trip Type
Mountains, Treks
Difficulty
Challenging
Trip Tag
Adventure, Cultural, Nature & Wildlife, Trekking

Overview

Itinerary

Cost

FAQs

Map

🧭 Overview

Embark on the Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu (4 Days / 3 Nights) — an epic adventure that combines majestic mountains, tropical valleys, and ancient history.
Named after Mount Salkantay (6,271 m), one of the most sacred peaks in the Andes, this trek offers a unique route to the Lost City of the Incas through breathtaking landscapes and ecological diversity.
Ideal for adventurous travelers, the Salkantay Trail is the perfect alternative to the Inca Trail, with full camping support, meals, and Machu Picchu included.

✨ Highlights

Trek beneath the majestic Salkantay Glacier (6,271 m)
Visit the turquoise Humantay Lake
Experience dramatic landscapes — from snow peaks to jungle valleys
Explore the world wonder Machu Picchu at sunrise
Enjoy full camping and logistical support during the trek

🌄 Day 1 :

Cusco to Soraypampa and Humantay Lake

Early pick-up from your hotel in Cusco (around 4:30 a.m.) and drive toward Mollepata, where you’ll enjoy a traditional breakfast before heading to Soraypampa (3,900 m) — the starting point of your trek.
After meeting your trekking team and horses, begin your hike to Humantay Lake (4,200 m), a turquoise lagoon beneath snow-capped peaks.
Return to camp at Soraypampa, where you’ll enjoy dinner and spend your first night surrounded by stunning Andean scenery.

⛰️ Day 2 :

Crossing Salkantay Pass and Descent to Chaullay

After an early breakfast, begin the most challenging day of the trek. Ascend gradually toward the Salkantay Pass (4,650 m), the highest point of the route, where breathtaking views of the glacier and surrounding valleys await.
After resting at the summit, start your descent through changing ecosystems — from high-altitude tundra to tropical forests — until reaching Chaullay (2,900 m), where you’ll camp and have dinner.

🌿 Day 3 :

From Cloud Forest to Aguas Calientes

Enjoy a scenic morning hike through lush cloud forest vegetation, passing waterfalls, orchids, and coffee plantations.
Continue to Lucmabamba, where you’ll board local transport toward Hidroelectrica. After lunch, walk along the train tracks through the jungle to reach Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu town).
Check into your accommodation, relax, and prepare for the highlight of the trip — Machu Picchu.

🏯 Day 4 :

Machu Picchu Tour and Return to Cusco

Wake up early for your guided tour of Machu Picchu, entering at sunrise for panoramic views. Explore temples, terraces, and ceremonial plazas with your professional guide.
After the tour, enjoy free time to take photos or climb Huayna Picchu (optional, subject to availability).
Later, take the train back to Cusco, arriving in the evening, concluding this unforgettable Andean adventure.