Price

Per preson

370.oo

Overview

Embark on the spectacular Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu (4 Days / 3 Nights), one of the most scenic and adventurous trekking routes in the Andes. This unforgettable journey takes you through dramatic high-altitude landscapes, glacial mountains, turquoise lakes, and lush cloud forest, offering a powerful alternative to the Classic Inca Trail.

Over four days, you will hike beneath the imposing Salkantay Glacier, visit the stunning Humantay Lake, cross the high mountain pass of Abra Salkantay, and descend into the subtropical valleys that lead toward Machu Picchu. Each day reveals a striking change of scenery, showcasing the incredible diversity of the Andean ecosystem.

This trek is ideal for travelers seeking raw nature, physical challenge, and an epic journey that culminates with a guided visit to the legendary citadel of Machu Picchu.

Important Note

To hike the Classic Inca Trail, a government-issued Inca Trail Permit is mandatory.

Permit availability is extremely limited and sells out months in advance, especially for dates from April to September.

Without a permit, you cannot access the trail under any circumstance.

We strongly recommend booking as early as possible.

WhyNotMachuPicchu can secure your permits and Machu Picchu entrance tickets (subject to availability).

Highlights

• Hike one of the most scenic and adventurous trekking routes in the Peruvian Andes

• Experience the raw beauty of glaciers, high-altitude passes, and turquoise mountain lakes

• Visit the breathtaking Humantay Lake and cross the legendary Salkantay Pass (4,600+ m / 15,000 ft)

• Witness dramatic changes in landscapes, from Andean highlands to lush cloud forest and jungle

• Reach Machu Picchu after an epic multi-day journey through remote mountain terrain

• Professional bilingual guide (English / Spanish) throughout the trek

• Full trekking experience with camping equipment, meals, pack animals, and support team

• Ideal for travelers seeking challenge, adventure, and unforgettable natural scenery

Additional Info

MANDATORY: To issue the Inca Trail permit and Machu Picchu ticket, the government requires:

• Full name

• Passport number

• Date of birth

• Nationality

Permits and tickets are NOT refundable and cannot be modified.

If you need to change your travel date, you will need to purchase a new permit/ticket.

Cancellation Policy

This experience is non-refundable and cannot be changed for any reason.

If you cancel or request an amendment, the amount paid cannot be refunded.

Itinerary

Day 1: Cusco – Mollepata – Soraypampa – Humantay Lake

Meals: Lunch, Dinner

Early in the morning, we depart from Cusco and travel through scenic Andean valleys toward Mollepata, where we stop for breakfast (not included). Continuing to Soraypampa, we meet our trekking team and begin the adventure.

After ,we hike to the breathtaking Humantay Lake, one of the most iconic natural wonders of the Andes. Upon arrival, you’ll have free time to explore, relax, and take photos, surrounded by snow-capped peaks and turquoise waters.

We return to Soraypampa for a freshly prepared dinner and spend the night camping beneath the stars, immersed in the silence of the high Andes.

Day 2: Soraypampa – Abra Salkantay – Chaullay

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

After an early breakfast, we begin the ascent toward the legendary Abra Salkantay (4,600 m / 15,000 ft) — the highest point of the trek. The climb is gradual and rewarding, with constant views of glaciers and towering mountains.

At the pass, we enjoy free time to rest, take photos, and fully experience the power of the surrounding landscape. After a well-earned lunch, we descend into the valley as the scenery transforms dramatically.

By late afternoon, we arrive at Chaullay, where a warm dinner awaits us and we rest for the night at camp, surrounded by lush greenery.

Day 3: Chaullay – La Playa – Hydroelectric – Aguas Calientes

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Today’s route takes us through the vibrant cloud forest and subtropical valleys, passing rivers, waterfalls, coffee plantations, and fruit farms. The warmer climate and rich vegetation create a completely different atmosphere from the previous days.

After lunch at La Playa, we continue toward the Hydroelectric station, where we begin the final scenic walk along the railway to Aguas Calientes.

Upon arrival, we check into our hotel, enjoy dinner at a local restaurant, and receive a briefing for the Machu Picchu visit the following morning.

Day 4: Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu – Return to Cusco

Meals: Breakfast

Early in the morning, we ascend to Machu Picchu by bus or on foot. During a guided tour, we explore the most important sectors of this legendary Inca citadel while learning about its history, engineering, and spiritual significance.

After the guided visit, you’ll have free time to explore, reflect, and take final photos of this iconic site — the perfect moment to absorb the achievement of the journey.

In the afternoon, we return to Aguas Calientes and board the train back toward Ollantaytambo, followed by transportation to Cusco, arriving in the evening.

What’s Included

• Pre-trek briefing prior to departure

• Pick-up from your hotel in Cusco

• Private transportation to the starting point of the trek

• Professional bilingual guide (English / Spanish) throughout the journey

• All meals during the trek (as specified in the itinerary)

• Freshly prepared meals by a trekking cook

• Camping equipment: tents, sleeping mats, dining tent, and kitchen equipment

• Pack animals and muleteers to carry camping equipment

• Accommodation in campsites (2 nights)

• Hotel accommodation in Aguas Calientes (1 night)

• Entrance ticket to Machu Picchu

• Guided tour of Machu Picchu

• Train ticket from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo

• Private transportation from Ollantaytambo to Cusco

• First-aid kit and emergency oxygen

What’s Not Included

• Breakfast on Day 1

• Lunch on Day 4

• Sleeping bag (available for rent)

• Trekking poles (available for rent)

• Entrance to Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain (optional)

• Travel insurance (highly recommended)

• Personal expenses (snacks, drinks, souvenirs)

• Tips for guides, cooks, and muleteers (optional)