Salkantay Trek
An unforgettable adventure through the Andes to the legendary Machu Picchu
If you’re looking for a magical adventure surrounded by incredible landscapes, the Sacred Salkantay Trek is the perfect alternative to the classic Inca Trail. Designed for travelers who want to explore the Peruvian Andes, witness the majesty of Mount Salkantay up close, and finish the journey at the mystical Machu Picchu, this 4-day trek offers an experience you’ll never forget.
Throughout the hike, you’ll enjoy breathtaking views of snowy peaks, glaciers, green valleys, and crystal-clear lagoons. With Russell Experience Peru Travel, you’ll live an adventure full of nature, history, and authentic cultural encounters — all without the crowds.
4-Day Salkantay Trek Itinerary
Day 1 | Cusco – Challacancha – Soraypampa “Sky Lodge” – Humantay Lake
We’ll start our adventure early in the morning with a hotel pick-up in Cusco around 4:30 a.m. for a scenic 3.5-hour drive to Mollepata, a charming town in the Andes. After enjoying a light breakfast, we’ll continue to Challacancha (3,800 m / 12,467 ft), where our Salkantay trekking experience officially begins.
From here, we start hiking toward Soraypampa (3,900 m / 12,795 ft), following a beautiful trail surrounded by towering mountains, lush valleys, and breathtaking views of the Peruvian Andes. This is the perfect chance to connect with nature and capture stunning photos.
Upon arrival at Soraypampa, we’ll settle into our exclusive Sky Lodges, where you’ll enjoy a delicious lunch freshly prepared by our local chef. In the afternoon, we’ll hike up to the famous Humantay Lake (4,200 m / 13,780 ft), a hidden gem known for its crystal-clear turquoise waters framed by majestic snow-capped peaks.
Take your time to explore, relax, and immerse yourself in this magical setting while snapping incredible photos. After enjoying the lake, we’ll return to our Sky Lodge in Soraypampa, where afternoon tea and a cozy dinner await. Rest well, as tomorrow’s adventure takes us even closer to Mount Salkantay.
Day 1 Highlights
Meals: Lunch, snacks, afternoon tea, and dinner
Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
Total distance: 9 km / 5.5 mi
Estimated hiking time: ~5 hours
Maximum altitude: 4,200 m / 13,780 ft
Accommodation: Soraypampa Sky Lodge (3,900 m / 12,795 ft)
Day 2 | Soraypampa – Salkantay Pass – Huayracmachay – Chaullay
Today is the most challenging yet most rewarding day of our Salkantay trek to Machu Picchu. We’ll wake up early at our Sky Lodge in Soraypampa, surrounded by the majestic snow-capped peaks of the Andes. After enjoying hot drinks and a hearty breakfast prepared by our mountain chefs, we’ll begin our ascent to the legendary Salkantay Pass (4,630 m / 15,190 ft).
The climb takes about 3 to 4 hours along a zigzagging and steep trail. It can be demanding due to the high altitude and thinner air, but the spectacular views of Mount Salkantay make every step worthwhile. For travelers who prefer extra assistance, we also offer the option to go horseback riding during this section.
Once we reach the Salkantay Pass, take your time to soak in the breathtaking landscapes, capture amazing photos, and feel the energy of this sacred mountain, one of the highest and most beautiful peaks in Peru.
After a well-deserved break, we begin our descent toward Huayracmachay (3,850 m / 12,631 ft), where a delicious lunch awaits. From there, we continue walking through changing landscapes — from high-altitude zones to lush green valleys — until we arrive at Chaullay (2,900 m / 9,514 ft), where our cozy cabins at the campsite are ready for a relaxing evening.
We’ll enjoy afternoon tea and a freshly prepared dinner, sharing stories of the day’s adventure under a star-filled Andean sky before resting to recharge for the next stage of the trek.
Day 2 Highlights
Meals: Breakfast, drinking water, lunch, snacks, afternoon tea, and dinner
Difficulty: Moderate to Challenging
Total distance: 22.5 km / 13.9 mi
Estimated hiking time: ~8 hours
Maximum altitude: 4,630 m / 15,190 ft (Salkantay Pass)
Accommodation: Cabins in Chaullay campsite (2,900 m / 9,514 ft)
Day 3 | Chaullay – La Playa – Santa Teresa – Hidroelectrica – Aguas Calientes
After an energizing breakfast prepared by our chef, we continue our adventure from Chaullay toward La Playa (2,060 m / 6,759 ft.). Along this part of the trek, you’ll notice an incredible transformation in the landscape: we leave behind the high Andean terrain and enter the lush Peruvian jungle, full of streams, waterfalls, orchids, and exotic birds.
Upon arrival at La Playa, we’ll stop to enjoy a delicious lunch made with fresh local ingredients. Afterward, we continue by car to the Hydroelectric Plant (1,800 m / 5,906 ft.), marking the end of the Cusco to Machu Picchu train line. From here, our journey continues on foot along the scenic railway tracks toward Aguas Calientes (2,040 m / 6,693 ft.), also known as Machu Picchu Town.
This gentle walk through the dense jungle offers beautiful views of the surrounding mountains and the Urubamba River. Upon arriving in Aguas Calientes, we’ll check into our hotel to rest and freshen up after a long but rewarding day. In the evening, we’ll gather for a group dinner at a local restaurant, where our guide will provide the final briefing for the next day’s visit to Machu Picchu.
Optional Activity:
If time permits and the group agrees, we may visit the Cocalmayo Hot Springs (1,600 m / 5,249 ft.) in Santa Teresa after lunch. These natural pools are the perfect way to relax and rejuvenate before continuing the trek.
Day 3 Highlights
Meals: Breakfast, drinking water, lunch, and dinner
Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
Total distance: 22 km / 13.6 mi
Estimated hiking time: ~10 hours
Maximum altitude: 2,900 m / 9,514 ft (Chaullay)
Accommodation: Hotel in Aguas Calientes (2,040 m / 6,693 ft)
Day 4 | Machu Picchu Guided Tour – Return to Cusco
The big day has finally arrived! After an early breakfast at your hotel around 5:00 a.m., we’ll head to the Aguas Calientes bus station to take a short ride up to the entrance of Machu Picchu (2,430 m / 7,972 ft).
To enter the sanctuary, you’ll need to present your original passport, your entrance ticket (included in the tour), and, if applicable, your student ID. Once inside, our expert guide will lead you on a fascinating 2-hour tour through the most iconic areas of the Lost City of the Incas. You’ll visit sacred temples, ceremonial plazas, terraces, and hidden corners, learning the history, mysteries, and incredible engineering behind this UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Important Notes About Visiting Machu Picchu
One-way circuits: According to regulations, once you enter the sanctuary, you must follow a one-way route and cannot backtrack. We recommend taking your time and enjoying each section thoroughly.
Single entry: Entrance tickets allow one entry only. If you leave, you’ll need a new ticket to re-enter.
Optional Hikes at Machu Picchu
If you want to enhance your experience, you can choose one of the additional hikes (tickets required and must be booked in advance, as they sell out quickly):
Huayna Picchu (2 hours round trip) – The most popular and steepest hike, offering breathtaking aerial views of the citadel.
Machu Picchu Mountain (3 hours round trip) – A slightly longer and less steep trail with panoramic views from the summit.
Huchuy Picchu – A short and easy climb located near the citadel, perfect for travelers seeking a lighter adventure.
Free Time in Aguas Calientes
After exploring Machu Picchu, you’ll take the bus back to Aguas Calientes. If time permits, you can enjoy optional activities such as:
Relaxing at the Cocalmayo hot springs
Visiting the butterfly sanctuary
Exploring the local Machu Picchu museum
Return to Cusco
In the afternoon, we’ll board the Expedition Train from Aguas Calientes at 6:30 p.m. to Ollantaytambo (about 2 hours). Upon arrival, a private transport will take you back to Cusco, where we expect to arrive around 10:30 p.m..
Note: If you’d like to return earlier or later, we can help adjust your train schedule based on ticket availability and your preferences.
Day 4 Highlights
Meals: Breakfast at the hotel
Difficulty: Easy
Estimated guided tour time: ~2 hours
Maximum altitude: 2,430 m / 7,972 ft (Machu Picchu)
What's Included in the Sacred Salkantay Trek 4 days
Pre-Tour Briefing
The day before your trek begins, you’ll meet your Salkantay guide at our offices (or another agreed-upon location) around 6:00 p.m. for a complete briefing about the itinerary, logistics, and tips to make the most of your adventure.
Transportation
Hotel pick-up in Cusco.
Tourist transport from Cusco to Challacancha (starting point of the trek).
Tourist transport from La Playa to Hidroelectrica.
Round-trip Consettur bus to the Machu Picchu Archaeological Site.
Expedition Tourist Train from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo.
Tourist transport from Ollantaytambo back to Cusco.
Professional Personnel
Certified bilingual guides (English & Spanish) specialized in the Salkantay Trek and Machu Picchu.
Trail chef and assistant, experts in preparing delicious Andean meals during the trek.
Support team with porters and horses to carry camping equipment and your duffle bag.
Entrance Tickets
Entrance to Salkantay and Humantay Lake.
Entrance to the Machu Picchu Archaeological Site (Circuit 2 or 3, depending on availability).
Accommodation
1st Night: Soraypampa Sky Lodge, under the starlit skies and the watchful eyes of Salkantay and Humantay.
2nd Night: Comfortable cabins at the Chaullay campsite, surrounded by the Sacred Mountains.
3rd Night: Hotel in Aguas Calientes (Casa de la Luz or similar, 2 stars) with private bathroom, hot shower, WiFi, and luggage storage.
Upgrades to 3★ or 4★ hotels available upon request.
Meals & Drinks
3 breakfasts, 3 lunches, and 3 dinners.
Vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options available at no extra cost.
Boiled, filtered, and chilled water provided from the first lunch until the last breakfast.
Coca tea served every morning.
Daily tea time during the trek.
Camping & Hiking Equipment
Dining tent and kitchen tent fully equipped.
Tables, chairs, and cooking gear carried by our support team.
Duffle bag for personal items (up to 5 kg / 11 lbs) — carried by our horses.
Other Inclusions
First aid kit with emergency oxygen.
24-hour customer service for any assistance before or during the trek.
Free luggage storage at our Cusco office for the duration of your adventure.
Trekking poles (optional but highly recommended) – available for rent.
Sleeping bag – available for rent.
Additional entrances:
Huayna Picchu Mountain
Machu Picchu Mountain
Huchuy Picchu
First breakfast (Day 1) and last lunch (Day 4).
Train from Hidroelectrica to Aguas Calientes (optional shortcut).
Personal expenses, tips, or extra services.
Extreme weather
Natural disasters
Political instability or strikes
Government regulations
Passenger health conditions
Note: You can rent trekking poles, sleeping bags, book additional entrances, upgrade your hotel, or even arrange the train from Hidroelectrica through us — just let us know when booking.
Why Choose Russell Experience Peru?
Local guides with deep knowledge of Inca culture
Comfortable private transport from Cusco to Machu Picchu
Customizable itineraries to suit your interests and pace
Authentic experiences with attention to every detail
Additional Services & Upgrades
To enhance your Salkantay Trek experience, we offer the following optional services. These can be reserved in advance or arranged on-site (subject to availability):
Trekking Gear & Equipment
Trekking Poles – USD 15.00
Sleeping Bag – USD 25.00 (3 kg)
Single Tent at Campsites – USD 50.00
Meals & Dining Options
Economical Breakfast in Mollepata – USD 10.00
Economical Lunch in Machu Picchu Town – USD 15.00
Lunch at Sanctuary Lodge (near Machu Picchu) – USD 45.00
Transport & Logistics
Cargo Horse (up to 20 kg) – USD 90.00
Saddle Horse (for one person) – USD 150.00
Train from Hidroelectrica to Aguas Calientes – USD 36.00
Machu Picchu Optional Entrances
Huayna Picchu Mountain – USD 75.00
Available at 7:00 am / 8:00 am / 9:00 am / 10:00 amMachu Picchu Mountain (opposite the main ruins) – USD 75.00
Available at 7:00 am / 8:00 amGuided Tour (Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain) – USD 75.00 per group
Note: If you choose Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain, a private guide may be required at an additional cost, depending on availability.
Train Upgrades
Upgrade to Vistadome Train – USD 50.00
Upgrade to Vistadome Observatory Train (Return) – USD 75.00
Hotel Reservations
We can assist you in booking standard, boutique, or luxury hotels throughout Peru to make your trip even more comfortable.
Note: Machu Picchu is one of the most visited destinations in the world, with limited daily entries. Booking in advance is essential to secure your spot. If you don’t, you may need to hire a private guide or adjust your schedule accordingly.
Salkantay Trek 4 Days – Prices & Discounts
Price per person: USD 499.00
Available Discounts
Student Discount – USD 20.00 off
Valid for travelers aged 18 to 24 years old.
You must present a valid student ID and be under 25 years old at the time of your trip.
A scanned copy of your student ID must be emailed to us at the time of booking.
Child Discount – USD 20.00 off
Valid for travelers under 18 years old.
A scanned copy of the passport must be emailed to us for verification.
Important Information
Itinerary Flexibility – The route may change depending on government regulations, weather conditions, or trekker health status.
Train Schedule – Train times are subject to availability and last-minute changes by the train company.
Expedition Train – Our standard service includes the Expedition Train to Ollantaytambo.
If you book a last-minute train ticket, we cannot guarantee you’ll be on the same train as the rest of the group.
Changing Train Tickets – If you wish to modify your train schedule or upgrade tickets, you’ll need to cover the price difference and pay an additional transportation fee from Ollantaytambo to Cusco.
Cancellation and Change Policies
If a confirmed reservation is canceled, the refund will be subject to the hotel’s cancellation policies and applicable government regulations.
Cancellations made within 72 hours before the travel date will be subject to a 70% cancellation fee of the total agreed price, or the travel date may be rescheduled depending on the policies of each service provider.
In case of a no-show on the day of the tour, 100% of the amount paid will be forfeited, with no option for a refund or transfer of the reservation to another passenger.
All itineraries are subject to change due to force majeure circumstances, such as strikes, extreme weather, or other unforeseen events, with the objective of ensuring the safety of travelers. Any modification will be coordinated in advance with the passenger or the travel agency.
Packing list for the 4-day Salkantay Trek
Essential
Clothing
Recommended
Equipment
Frequently Asked Questions – Salkantay Trek 4 Days
How difficult is the Salkantay Trek 4 Days?
The trek is considered moderate to challenging.
Day 2 is the hardest, as you’ll cross the Salkantay Pass at 4,630 m / 15,190 ft.
Proper acclimatization in Cusco for at least 2 days before the trek is highly recommended.
What is the total distance and duration of the trek?
Total distance: Approximately 70 km / 43.5 miles
Duration: 4 days / 3 nights
Average walking time per day: 6 to 10 hours, depending on the itinerary.
What is the highest point on the trek?
The Salkantay Pass is the highest point at 4,630 m / 15,190 ft above sea level.
The altitude can affect some trekkers, so acclimatization and hydration are essential.
Do I need to be physically fit to do the Salkantay Trek?
Yes. While you don’t need to be an athlete, a good level of fitness is recommended.
We advise preparing with regular walks, hikes, or cardio exercises.
Trekking poles are highly recommended for stability and reducing knee strain.
When is the best time to hike the Salkantay Trek?
The dry season (April to October) offers the best weather conditions, with sunny days and clear views.
However:
May to September → Peak season, more crowded.
November to March → Rainy season, trails can be slippery, but fewer tourists.
How cold does it get during the trek?
Temperatures vary depending on the location:
Soraypampa campsite: Can drop to -5°C / 23°F at night.
Chaullay and jungle zones: Warmer, around 10°C to 20°C / 50°F to 68°F.
Packing layers, a good sleeping bag, and warm clothing is essential.
Do I need permits for the Salkantay Trek?
Unlike the Inca Trail, no special permits are required for the Salkantay Trek.
However, entrance tickets to Machu Picchu are included and must be booked in advance due to high demand.
Can I climb Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain?
Yes, but tickets are limited and sell out quickly.
Huayna Picchu: Steep and adventurous climb, approx. 2 hours round trip.
Machu Picchu Mountain: Easier, approx. 3 hours round trip.
Both cost $75 USD extra and must be booked in advance.
How many people are in a group?
We keep our groups small and personalized, with a maximum of 12 people per guide to ensure better attention and safety.
Is there internet or phone signal during the trek?
At Soraypampa and Chaullay, there may be limited mobile coverage.
Some campsites offer Wi-Fi access for an additional fee.
At Aguas Calientes, Wi-Fi is available in most hotels and restaurants.
How far in advance should I book the Salkantay Trek?
We recommend booking at least 2 to 3 months in advance, especially if you plan to visit Machu Picchu during the high season (May to September).
This experience is non-refundable and cannot be modified for any reason. If you cancel or request a modification, no refund will be given.