Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu 4D/3N

5.0Based on

Carbon neutral

4 daysDuration

Small Group TourUsually 8-12 participants, maximum 18 travelers

18 peopleMaximum group size

18 - 99 yearsAge range for participants

EnglishGuide language

Challenging

Demands good physical fitness and stamina for more intense or extended activities.

Starts

Cusco, Peru

Ends

Cusco, Peru

Highlights

Hike to stunning Humantay Lake amidst towering Andes peaks.

Explore the iconic Machu Picchu at sunrise with a local guide.

Cross Salkantay Pass for breathtaking views of snow-capped mountains.

Conquer the challenging Salkantay Pass with panoramic mountain views.

Itinerary

The Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu is a four-day, challenging journey crafted for those who thrive on adventure and cultural discovery. Traverse dramatic mountain landscapes, vibrant cloud forests, and the awe-inspiring Salkantay Pass, culminating in a guided exploration of the legendary Machu Picchu. Highlights include the turquoise Humantay Lake, rejuvenating hot springs, and daily immersion in Andean culture and history. Perfect for experienced trekkers and young adults seeking an exhilarating yet rewarding tour, this trek’s unique appeal lies in its off-the-beaten-path route, blending spectacular scenery with rich cultural encounters for an unforgettable Peruvian adventure.

day 1 - Cusco-Soraypampa Camp, Peru

Peaks, Lakes & High-Altitude Adventure AwaitsEarly Morning Departure

05:30 AM – Cusco Pick-Up

Rise with the sun as we collect you from your accommodation and set off by bus through the rolling Peruvian countryside toward Mollepata. Stretch your legs, grab a snack, and prepare for what's ahead!

Final Prep and Scenic Drive

Our journey continues by car as we climb higher, stopping at Challacancha for essential equipment checks and last-minute adjustments before trekking.

Into the Heart of the Andes

Trek: 3 Hours, Challacancha to Soraypampa (3,920m)

Lace up your boots for a moderate hike through breathtaking Andean landscapes. Reach Soraypampa, where a delicious lunch awaits amid panoramic views of spectacular snow-capped peaks.

Laguna de Humantay Adventure

Hike to Laguna de Humantay (1.5 hours each way)

After lunch, set out for a rewarding hike to the shimmering turquoise waters of Laguna de Humantay. Marvel at the dramatic mountain scenery before returning to camp.

High-Altitude Camping Experience

Soraypampa Camp (3,920m)

Settle into your tents at our highest and most atmospheric campsite. Savor a hearty dinner, soak up the tranquil mountain air, and get cozy for your first night sleeping under the vast Andean sky.

day 2 - Soraypampa Camp-Challhuay, Peru

From Snowy Salkantay Summit to Jungle SkiesEarly Morning Energizer

Wake up to a crisp mountain morning and fuel up with a hearty breakfast before lacing up your boots for a challenging and rewarding day ahead.

Summiting the Salkantay Pass

Set out on a breathtaking 4-hour ascent to the revered Salkantay Pass (4,650m), nestled dramatically between the towering giants of Salkantay and Humantay. If you’d like, you can rent a horse to help you conquer this lofty section (100-120 soles). As you reach the summit, stand in awe of the panoramic views and the possibility of a dusting of fresh snow.

Refueling at Huayracpampa

Descend for two hours along winding mountain trails, taking in the crisp air and ever-changing vistas, until arriving at Huayracpampa for a much-deserved lunch break. Savor warm food while wrapped in the stunning natural amphitheater of the Andes.

Trek into the High Jungle

Re-energized, set out for the final three-hour trek of the day, gradually descending into the lush beginnings of the high jungle, where the scenery grows greener and the air warmer. Reach your campsite at Challhuay or Colcapampa (2,900m), ready to unwind, dine, and sleep beneath a canopy of stars.

day 3 - Challhuay-Aguas Calientes, Peru

Journey Through Jungle to Aguas CalientesJungle Adventure Begins | 6:30am

Start your morning with a hearty breakfast before setting out through the breathtaking upper jungle. Cross the Santa Teresa River and wander among brooks, cascading waterfalls, and lush valleys bursting with tropical fruit and vibrant plants. Wild scenery makes every step an adventure.

Lunch Amid the Jungle

Pause for a delicious lunch at La Playa, situated at 2,200 meters. Re-energize as you soak in the sounds and sights of the upper Amazon basin.

Scenic Drive to Santa Teresa Town

Hop in a vehicle and wind down to Santa Teresa town (1,700m), where the climate turns warm and inviting. This bustling spot is your entryway to lower jungle life.

Journey to Hydroelectric Station

Continue your journey by car for 40 more minutes to the Hydroelectric Station, an engineering marvel nestled in nature’s embrace.

Trek the Rails to Aguas Calientes

Transition to a 3-hour hike along the rail tracks. Marvel at your views: the drifting mist, sheer cliffs, riverbanks, and ever-present call of distant waterfalls. For those wanting to rest their legs, a train option is available (extra fee).

Arrive and Unwind in Aguas Calientes

Reach Aguas Calientes just before dusk. Explore its vibrant cafes, game spots, and shops—or relax after your incredible journey. Tonight, rest in a comfortable 3-star hotel and dream of Machu Picchu’s nearby wonders.

day 4 - Aguas Calientes-Cusco, Peru

Sunrise Splendor & Machu Picchu MarvelsDawn Ascent to Machu Picchu (05:30 am)

Rise before sunrise and catch an early bus through the cloud forests to reach Machu Picchu as the first rays pierce the mist. The journey up is thrilling as anticipation builds for your first glimpse of this famed wonder.

Guided Exploration of Ancient Wonders (Approx. 2 hours)

Enjoy an immersive two-hour guided walking tour of Machu Picchu, South America's most spectacular archaeological site. Your expert guide will transport you back in time through fascinating stories, revealing the incredible engineering and mysterious lore of the Incas as you step through legendary plazas and temples.

Free Time and Optional Adventure

After your tour, enjoy free time to wander the breathtaking ruins, snap those iconic photos, or simply reflect on the magic around you. Adventurous spirits can opt to climb the steep, iconic Huayna Picchu for unrivaled views—just be sure to book in advance!

Return Journey to Cusco

When you’re ready, descend by bus (or tackle the energetic trek down) to Aguas Calientes. Relive the day’s excitement on the picturesque train ride to Ollantaytambo, then relax on the bus as you travel back to Cusco. You'll arrive in the evening, brimming with unforgettable memories.

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What's Included

Accommodation

2N camping and 1N at a 3 star hotelCusco accommodation pick-up

Meals

3 Breakfast(s)3 Lunch(es)3 Dinner(s)Briefing, equipment, snacks, fees2 snacks with typical menus

Transport

Van Cusco to Mollepata to Challacancha (starting point of trek)Car transfer La Playa to Santa Teresa to hydroelectric stationRound trip tourist bus Aguas Calientes-Machu PicchuBus Ollantaytambo to Cusco

Guide

Professional bilingual guide on trek tour

Others

Pick-up, various transfersTourist train Aguas Calientes to OllantaytamboPre-departure briefingMachu Picchu entrance feeTent for 2 peopleFirst aid kitFoam sleeping matHorseman and mules to carry cooking and camping equipment plus a total of 5 kilos for each trekker. (this includes 2.5 kilos for your sleeping bag & mattress plus 2.5 kilos of personal items.)Emergency oxygen bottle

INCLUDED ACTIVITIES

Active adventureTrek

What's Excluded

Customer Reviews

Read what other travelers have to say about Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu 4D/3N

5.0

based on 21 reviews

Tour Availability

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Anonymous

Sistema di prenotazione semplice e intuibile. In caso di necessità le istruzioni presenti sul sito sono risultate utili e chiare. Nessun problema riscontrato

1 week ago

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