
Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu 4 Days
4 Days

Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu 4 Days
4 Days
Overview
Join with us on this exciting Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu 4 Days through the Andean highlands of Peru, following the ancient Salkantay Inca Trail to reach the iconic Machu Picchu. This 4 Days Salkantay trek, is very famous for its stunning landscapes, a challenging route and the ultimate reward of reaching the legendary Lost City of the Incas.
This hike is a transformative journey that combines natural beauty, cultural immersion, and awe-inspiring. experience of reaching one of the most emblematic archaeological sites in the world. Get ready for an adventure that will leave you with memories that will last a lifetime.
Highlights
- Spectacular Salkantay Mountain views & high-altitude trekking
- Salkantay Pass – highest point of the trek
- Cloud forest & diverse tropical landscapes
- Machu Picchu sunrise experience
- Guided tour & free time at Machu Picchu
- Scenic train return to Cusco
Trip Details
- Starting Altitude 4,000 m / 13,120 feet
- Hightes Altude: 4,630 m / 15,190 feet
- Type Tour: Hiking, Adventure, Cultural
- Difficulty level: Demanding
- Total Walking Distance: 65 km / 40. 39 miles
Itinerary
Day 1. Cusco – Soraypampa – Humantay Lake – Quiswaraniyoc Camp
Early hotel pick-up in Cusco at 05:45 am, followed by a scenic drive through the Andes to Mollepata (2 hours). Enjoy a fresh local breakfast and a short break before continuing. Entrance fee to the local community is paid on-site.
Continue by vehicle for 1 more hour to Soraypampa, the starting point of your trek. Here, meet the horsemen and pack horses, who will carry your equipment, food, and up to 7 kg of personal belongings per hiker.
Begin a gradual uphill hike (approx. 2 hours) to the stunning Humantay Lake, one of the most iconic turquoise lagoons in the Andes. Upon arrival, enjoy free time to explore, take photos, and learn about the cultural and spiritual significance of the lagoon from your guide.
After spending time at the lake, descend for about 2 hours to Quiswarniyoc, your exclusive mountain campsite. Upon arrival, enjoy a freshly prepared lunch by the trekking chef.
In the afternoon, relax or explore the surroundings—spot llamas, take short walks, or simply unwind in the peaceful Andean landscape. If needed, rest in your comfortable mountain camp.
Quiswarniyoc Camp (4,000 m / 13,123 ft):
A unique and exclusive campsite surrounded by snow-capped mountains, waterfalls, and panoramic views. Perfect for short hikes, nature photography, and enjoying the tranquility of the high Andes.
Day 2: Quiswaraniyuc – Salkantay Pass – Huayracmachay – Cahullay Camp.
Wake up early at 05:00 am with a warm cup of coca tea, followed by time to prepare for the day. Enjoy a nutritious high-energy breakfast around 05:45 am before starting the most challenging and rewarding day of the Salkantay Trek.
Begin a steady uphill hike (3–4 hours) toward the Salkantay Pass (4,630 m / 15,190 ft), the highest point of the trek. This section offers breathtaking panoramic views of snow-capped peaks, including the majestic Salkantay Mountain. At the summit, take time to rest, capture incredible photos, and learn about Andean spirituality. Participate in a traditional Apus ceremony, honoring the sacred mountain spirits.
After reaching the pass, descend for approximately 2 hours to the lunch spot, where you will enjoy a freshly prepared meal surrounded by dramatic landscapes.
Continue trekking downhill for another 3 hours, entering the lush cloud forest ecosystem, where the scenery transforms into green valleys, waterfalls, and tropical vegetation. Arrive at Chaullay Camp (2,900 m / 9,514 ft), located at the gateway to the Peruvian Amazon.
At camp, relax with tea time, followed by a delicious dinner prepared by your trekking chef. Optional services include hot showers (available for a small fee) and the chance to purchase drinks from local families.
Chaullay Camp:
A scenic campsite nestled in the edge of the jungle, surrounded by rich biodiversity, warm climate, and vibrant landscapes—a perfect contrast to the high Andes of the previous day.
Day 3: Chaullay – Santa Teresa – Hidroelectrica – Aguas Calientes
Wake up around 06:00 am with a warm cup of coca tea, followed by a delicious breakfast surrounded by the lush jungle atmosphere. Today’s trek takes you deeper into the cloud forest and tropical landscapes of the Salkantay route.
Start hiking at 07:00 am along the scenic Santa Teresa Valley, following the powerful Salkantay River. This 5-hour trek features a gradual descent through a vibrant ecosystem filled with coffee plantations, banana trees, avocados, coca plants, and exotic fruits like passion fruit—an authentic taste of the Peruvian jungle.
Arrive at La Playa Sahuayaco, where you’ll take local transportation for approximately 1 hour to Santa Teresa. Here, enjoy a well-deserved lunch and short rest.
After lunch, continue by vehicle for about 45 minutes to Hydroelectric, the gateway to Machu Picchu. From here, begin a 3-hour flat hike along the train tracks to Aguas Calientes, surrounded by lush vegetation and dramatic canyon views—an easy and scenic walk.
Upon arrival in Aguas Calientes, check into your comfortable hotel where you can shower and relax after an adventurous day. In the evening (around 07:00 pm), enjoy a group dinner at a local restaurant, followed by a briefing for the next day’s visit to Machu Picchu.
Overnight stay in Aguas Calientes, resting up for the highlight of your journey.
Day 4: Machupicchu – Cusco.
Experience the highlight of your journey with an early wake-up around 04:00 am to prepare for your visit to Machu Picchu. Enjoy a packed breakfast before starting the day.
Begin a short walk to Puente Ruinas checkpoint, where you will present your passport and entrance tickets. Then, take on the iconic uphill hike (approx. 1 hour) through the jungle stairs to reach the main entrance of Machu Picchu by sunrise an unforgettable moment.
Enter the Lost City of the Incas, one of the New 7 Wonders of the World, and enjoy a 2 hour guided tour exploring the most महत्वपूर्ण sectors: temples, terraces, and ancient Inca architecture. Your guide will share insights into the history, culture, and mysteries of this UNESCO World Heritage Site.
After the guided tour, enjoy free time to explore Machu Picchu at your own pace, take photos, or simply soak in the breathtaking surroundings.
Optional hikes (must be booked in advance):
- Huayna Picchu Mountain (approx. 2.5 hours round trip) – steep climb with spectacular panoramic views
- Machu Picchu Mountain (approx. 3.5 hours round trip) – a longer hike with wide-angle views of the entire citadel
After your visit, begin your return journey to Cusco. Depending on your package, you will travel back via scenic train or car, enjoying the last views of the Andes.
End of an unforgettable Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu adventure.
Notes Itinerario
- Difficulty: Moderate to challenging (high-altitude trekking)
- Max Altitude: 4,630 m (Salkantay Pass)
- Acclimatization: 2 days in Cusco recommended
- Climate: Cold Andes to warm jungle – bring layers
- Luggage: 7 kg per person (carried by horses)
- Accommodation: Camping + hotel in Aguas Calientes
- Meals: Included (trek) + dinner in Aguas Calientes
- Extras: Huayna Picchu & Machu Picchu Mountain require advance booking
- Best Season: April – October
- Insurance: Recommended
Included
- Pre-trek briefing with your professional guide
- Hotel pick-up in Cusco and transportation to trailhead
- Professional bilingual guide (English/Spanish)
- Entrance ticket to Machu Picchu
- Horsemen & pack horses (carry up to 7 kg per person)
- All camping equipment (tents, mattresses, dining tent, kitchen tent)
- 2 nights camping + 1 night hotel in Aguas Calientes
- Meals during the trek (3 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 3 dinners)
- Daily snacks & tea time
- Cook and kitchen staff
- First aid kit & oxygen bottle for emergencies
- Transportation:
- Cusco → Mollepata → Soraypampa
- La Playa → Santa Teresa → Hydroelectric
- Return to Cusco (train or car, depending on package)
Not Included
- Entrance fee to Humantay Lake / local community (approx. 10–20 soles)
- Breakfast on Day 1 and lunch on the last day
- Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain tickets (optional, must be booked in advance)
- Sleeping bag & trekking poles (available for rent)
- Hot showers at campsites (small extra fee)
- Drinks, snacks & personal expenses
- Tips for guide, cook, and horsemen (optional)
- Travel insurance (strongly recommended)
What To Bring
- Original passport (required for Machu Picchu entry)
- Daypack (20–30L) for daily essentials
- Warm clothing (layers) – jacket, fleece, thermal wear
- Waterproof jacket / rain poncho
- Comfortable trekking shoes (already broken-in)
- Extra clothes for changing (especially after hiking)
- Hat, sunglasses & sunscreen (strong high-altitude sun)
- Gloves, scarf & beanie (cold mornings at high altitude)
- Reusable water bottle / hydration pack
- Personal snacks & energy bars
- Headlamp or flashlight (early hikes)
- Toiletries & personal medication
- Insect repellent (for jungle areas)
- Camera or smartphone
- Cash (Peruvian soles) for extras and small purchases
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