Embark on the thrilling 4-day Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu! Trek through diverse terrains, from glacial lakes to lush valleys, and witness breathtaking views of the majestic Salkantay Mountain. Experience the perfect blend of adventure and comfort as you camp under the stars amidst stunning Andean landscapes and culminate your journey in the luxury of a 4-star hotel in Aguas Calientes.
Season: All year long – Best May to Dec.
Witness majestic Andean condors soaring gracefully over the breathtaking Chonta Canyon, offering an awe-inspiring glimpse into Peru’s natural wonders and wildlife in their pristine habitat.
Marvel at the turquoise beauty of Humantay Lake, nestled high in the mountains. This stunning glacial lake is a serene oasis surrounded by snow-capped peaks, perfect for unforgettable photos.
Stand in awe before the mighty Salkantay Mountain, an imposing snow-capped peak revered by locals. Its towering presence is a highlight of the trek, symbolizing the raw power of the Andes.
Soak in the rejuvenating Cocalmayo Hot Springs, a hidden gem where warm, mineral-rich waters provide the perfect respite for weary trekkers amid lush, picturesque surroundings.
Discover the ancient ruins of Llaqtapata, offering a fascinating glimpse into Incan history and spectacular views of Machu Picchu from a unique vantage point, blending archaeology with stunning scenery.
Explore the iconic ruins of Machu Picchu. This ashlar masonry has endured centuries of earthquakes and harsh weather. Machu Picchu’s architecture exemplifies Incan ingenuity and precision in ancient engineering and design.
Climb the towering Huayna Picchu for a bird’s-eye view of Machu Picchu. The challenging hike rewards you with panoramic vistas and an exhilarating sense of accomplishment.
Ascend Machu Picchu Montaña for unrivaled views of the ancient citadel and surrounding valleys. This less-traveled path offers a peaceful and awe-inspiring perspective of the legendary site.
Aguas Calientes, a small town situated just below Machu Picchu, is the end point of this Salkantay hiking experience and after you’ve reached this point, a 4-mile hike straight up the Inca stairs to Machu Picchu is next. There, where you’ll be spoiled with a guided tour around the citadel of Machu Picchu.
This day starts early – be ready to go at 5 AM! We will pick you up at the hotel and begin your trek. It will start with a 6-hour bus ride towards Soraypampa, the starting point. Catch up on some sleep, but also look at the beautiful countryside as we travel. The first few hours of our hike will consist of a steep ascent towards the highest point of the trek, the Apacheta pass (4626 meters – 15177 feet above sea level). Here, you will be able to see the most perfect view of the Salkantay Mountain, located at 6,271 meters. You’ll also be able to see the Queuña, a one of a kind tree that has adapted to this environment. You will not see it anywhere else. After looking around, you will continue your trek to the first camp, Andenes. You will experience a variation of climate, so be prepared for adventure tour with River Explorers.
Meals: Lunch, snacks and dinner (Plus snacks and afternoon tea time)
Trek difficulty: Hard.
Accommodation: Camping Tents at 3850 meters – 12631 feet above sea level.
Hiking distance: 13 km – 8 miles
Highest altitude: 4626 meters – 15177 feet feet above sea level.
On Day 2, you will enjoy an energizing breakfast and then take on your second day of hiking. You will likely find that this day is much easier than the first, but no less interesting. You will see small rivers and ravines as well as beautiful views of the Andes alongside this trail. A relaxing waterfall where we rest is a crowd favorite for pictures. Every step that you take will bring a change in your surroundings, so always be prepared for those photos. You will see many different birds, including the Peruvian national bird in the warmer areas. A breakfast, lunch and dinner are included here.
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, snacks and dinner (Plus snacks and afternoon tea time)
Trek difficulty: Easy.
Accommodation: camping in tents at 2400 meters – 7864 feet above sea level..
Hiking distance: 20 km – 8 miles
Highest altitude: 3850 meters – 12631 feet above sea level.
The third day of hiking will begin with another healthy breakfast that will help you have energy for the big day ahead. If you have physical limitations here, you may want to talk to your guide – you need to be in great physical shape but there are public transportation options where you can meet up with the rest of the group.
If you do decide that you can take the trip, you will notice that there is quite a change in scenery as you walk. You will see the coffee plantations, banana trees, oranges and avocados on your Salkantay trail hiking experience, which will eventually lead to the entrance of a trail that will take us to Patallacta about three hours later.
You will want to do some exploring around Patallacta, where you will see some beautiful sights, including a view of the Machu Picchu complex. Two hours of following a descending path later, you will arrive at Machu Picchu Hydroelectric where we will meet with those who couldn’t not physically make the hike. Here, we will have lunch and relax and then hike for a few more hours before the final destination: Aguas Calientes. This is the end of the Salkantay hike and you will now move to Machu Picchu.
For those that are tired, you can purchase a train ticket for $35 that will take you from Hydroelectric to Aguas Calientes in about 20 to 30 minutes. In Aguas Calientes, you will check into a lovely hostel for a nice evening. The hostel provides room with private bathrooms and showers. During the evening you’ll also be briefed about hiking Machu Picchu by your guide.
Meals: Breakfast, snacks and lunch.
Trek difficulty: Hard.
Accommodation: Hotel at 2040 meters – 6692 feet above sea level.
Hiking distance: 20 km – 8 miles
Highest altitude: 2700 meters – 12631 feet above sea level.
On this last day (the most important day), you will want to start early so that you can explore Machu Picchu without the thousands of tourists that will be there by late morning. By arriving early, you will be able to climb Huayna Picchu, which will give you the best experience.
While at Machu Picchu, your tour guide will give you a two-hour guided expedition around the impressive complex. You will have plenty of time to ask questions, take photos, and just experience the beauty.
Machu Picchu is so popular for tourists and it is large, so you will be able to experience. This destination is big enough because it once had thousands of people living and working here. Most archeologists say that Machu Picchu was used as a royal residence in the height of the empire. They assume that Inca Pachacutec (one of the most important kings during the Inca Empire) built it as a monument to his own reign. The speculations surrounding the exact reason for the existence of this place make Machu Picchu the highlight of the Salkantay trek and you’re sure to be totally amazed with this place.
To end of your tour of the Salkantay trek to Machu Picchu, you’ll meet up with the rest of your tour group and take a bus back to Aguas Calientes. Depending on the trains service, you’ll be transported back to your hotel in Cusco by the afternoon or evening. If the train stops at Ollantaytambo, there will be a bus waiting to take the group back to Cusco. Breakfast is included at the hotel.
Meals: Breakfast.
Trek difficulty: Moderate, if hiking to Huayna Picchu or Montaña Machu Picchu its hard.
Hiking distance: 20 km – 8 miles
Highest altitude: 2700 meters – 12631 feet above sea level.
*Extend your vacation and choose our well rated and fun rafting adventures activities near Salkantay. You will definitely love where we will take you!
Huayna Picchu or Montaña Machu Picchu: Climb Huayna Picchu for breathtaking views of Machu Picchu, priced at $75. Be prepared for steep trails and a challenging ascent.
Hotels: Standard accommodation includes a hotel and a 4-star hotel in Aguas Calientes. For a more luxurious stay, you can upgrade to a 5-star hotel upon request. Note that hotel stays and meals are not included if you opt for hotel accommodation instead of continuing with the trek.
Sleeping Bag: Sleeping bags are not provided. However, you can rent one for $25 per day if needed.
Meals: Lunch on the 5th day is not included in the package.
Hot Springs: Entrance fees to the hot springs are not included.
Gratuities: Tips are not included in the price and can be given at your discretion.
Financial Preparation:I t is advisable to bring some cash for any unforeseen expenses that may arise during the trip.
