Salkantay Hike Peru – Salkantay Trail Peru

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Salkantay Hike Peru - Salkantay Trail Peru Details

Embark on an extraordinary adventure with our Four-Day Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu. It is a journey that combines natural splendor, cultural richness, and thrilling exploration. At Salkantay Travel, we take pride in offering a guided tour. It reveals the unspoiled beauty of the Peruvian Andes.

This journey also leads you to the iconic Machu Picchu, one of the New Seven Wonders of the World.

This is the alternative route to the classic Inca Trail. Salkantay Hike Peru is a perfect choice for adventurers seeking an off-the-beaten-path experience. The Salkantay Hike Peru traverses diverse landscapes, from the snow-capped peaks of Salkantay Pass at 4,650 meters (15,255 feet) above sea level to the lush tropical jungle near Santa Teresa. 

Along the way, you will witness breathtaking sights, such as the glacial Humantay Lake, cascading waterfalls, vibrant cloud forests, and coffee plantations. Each step brings you closer to the awe-inspiring Machu Picchu Mountain, which awaits you on the final day.

Our journey begins in the serene highlands, where the crisp mountain air sets the stage for an exhilarating ascent to Salkantay Pass. The effort will be rewarded with panoramic views of towering peaks and valleys that seem to stretch endlessly. From there, we will descend into warmer climates, walking through lush vegetation and spotting exotic wildlife. With every turn, the trail reveals a new story, blending natural beauty with the rich heritage of the Andean people.

You will travel in the expert care of our knowledgeable tour guides, who will share fascinating insights into the history, culture, and ecology of the region. We will ensure that your trek to Machu Picchu is as safe and comfortable as possible, providing important information on how to adapt to the altitude and weather. Whether it’s navigating the occasional drizzle with a rain poncho or enjoying hearty meals of breakfast, lunch, and dinner, we’ll take care of every detail so you can focus on the journey.

Embark on a Transformative Journey: The Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu with Salkantay Travel

The trek is suitable for those with a moderate fitness level, as tranquil descents and well-earned breaks balance the challenging ascents. Our Salkantay Trail Peru experience avoids the crowded paths of the Inca Trail, offering a more intimate connection with the landscape. We will spend the night in comfortable accommodations, whether it’s cozy mountain lodges or charming jungle retreats, allowing you to recharge for the next day’s adventure.

On the final day, the trek culminates in an unforgettable visit to Machu Picchu, where we’ll explore the ancient citadel on a comprehensive guided tour. After soaking in the history and majesty of this UNESCO World Heritage Site, we’ll board the scenic train from Aguas Calientes, completing the journey with memories to last a lifetime.

This trek is available year-round, but remember that the rainy season runs from November to March, bringing unpredictable weather that may add an extra layer of adventure. With the right preparation and an open mind, you will find every moment of this experience enriching. Whether it’s the awe of standing atop Salkantay Pass, the serenity of walking through the jungle, or the thrill of seeing Machu Picchu for the first time, the Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu promises to leave an indelible mark on your heart.

Join us on this transformative hike to Machu Picchu, and let us make your dream of exploring Peru a reality. Together, we’ll create a journey that resonates long after the last step is taken. Salkantay Travel is here to guide you every step of the way.

Departure & Return Location

Cusco Hotel Transfer

Departure Time

0430 AM

Salkantay Hike Peru Includes

  • Professional bilingual tour guide
  • First day Andean ceremony, offering to the Mother Earth
  • Maximum group size: 10 participants
  • Pickup from your hotel
  • Private transport to Mollepata Markocasa (trailhead)
  • Tourist train back to Ollantaytambo (Expedition service at 18:35 PM or 21:30 PM, leaving from Aguas Calientes)
  • Private transport back from Ollantaytambo to Cusco
  • Entrance fee to Machu Picchu
  • Food: 3 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 4 afternoon snacks (hot drinks, biscuits, and popcorn), and 3 dinners
  • Cook service (vegetarian food available upon request)
  • 3-person capacity tents for 2 people for extra space to store your luggage (4-season tents)
  • Camping equipment: tents, cooking and eating tent, chairs, and tables
  • Horseman, mules, or porters (carrying cooking supplies and camping equipment)
  • 7 kg (15.4 lbs) of your personal belongings to be carried by the horses
  • 1-night accommodation in a private room at a hostel in Aguas Calientes (with cable TV and Wi-Fi)

Salkantay Hike Peru Excludes

  • Entrance fees to Wayna Picchu ($10 USD extra)
  • Breakfast on the first day and lunch on the last day in Aguas Calientes
  • Entrance fees to the hot springs or transportation to get there (15 soles round trip in Aguas Calientes)
  • Bus ticket from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu (optional) – $20 USD round trip ($10 USD one way, available at the bus station).
  • You can rent an extra horse to ride or carry an extra backpack for $120 USD for 3 days (you can share it with another person).

Packing List

  • Sleeping bags (4-season, suitable for cold temperatures)
  • Duffle bag (for personal belongings, with a weight limit of 7 kg/15.4 lbs to be carried by the horses)
  • Waterproof clothing (jacket and pants for rain protection)
  • Hiking boots (sturdy, waterproof, and comfortable for trekking)
  • Trekking poles (optional, but helpful for stability on steep paths)
  • Warm clothing (layers, including fleece, for cold weather at high altitudes)
  • Sun protection (sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat)
  • Personal hygiene items (toothbrush, toothpaste, wet wipes, biodegradable soap)
  • Snacks (energy bars, trail mix, or dried fruit for extra energy)
  • Camera (for capturing the stunning landscapes)
  • Coca tea (optional, can help alleviate symptoms of altitude sickness)
  • Altimeter (optional, for tracking your altitude during the trek)
  • Insect repellent (to protect against mosquitoes in lower altitudes)
  • Small first aid kit (band-aids, pain relievers, and any personal medications)
  • Passport (must be carried for Machu Picchu entrance)
  • Cash (for souvenirs, tips, or small purchases along the way)
  • Rain cover (for your backpack)
What to Expect on Salkantay Trail Peru?

The 4-Day Salkantay Trek offers an unforgettable journey through the breathtaking Andes, blending adventure, nature, and culture. Expect to hike along diverse landscapes, from snow-capped mountains to lush tropical jungles, while marveling at stunning landmarks like the Salkantay Pass at 4,650 meters (15,255 feet) and the turquoise Humantay Lake. With expert guides leading the way, you’ll gain insights into the region’s rich history and ecology, making each step both rewarding and meaningful.

This trek balances physical challenge with comfort, offering well-earned breaks, hearty meals, and cozy accommodations. You’ll cross through remote highland villages, witness the biodiversity of the cloud forest, and experience the serenity of the Peruvian countryside. On the final day, the adventure culminates with a guided tour of the iconic Machu Picchu, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This journey will leave you with lasting memories of Peru’s natural beauty and ancient heritage.

  • Stunning Scenery: Traverse diverse landscapes, from snow-capped mountains and glacial lakes to lush cloud forests and tropical jungles.
  • Humantay Lake: Visit the breathtaking turquoise glacial lake, a serene and picturesque highlight of the trek.
  • Salkantay Pass: Reach the highest point of the trail at 4,650 meters (15,255 feet), with panoramic views of towering peaks.
  • Cultural Immersion: Experience traditional Andean villages and learn about local customs and history from expert guides.
  • Wildlife and Nature: Encounter exotic flora and fauna, cascading waterfalls, and vibrant coffee plantations along the trail.
  • Machu Picchu Finale: End the trek with a guided tour of the iconic ancient citadel, arriving at the awe-inspiring Sun Gate.
Salkantay Hike Peru Itinerary

Day 1Cusco - Mollepata - Callacancha - Soraypampa

Your first day on the Salkantay Trail Peru begins with an early morning departure from Cusco, where the crisp mountain air sets the stage for an unforgettable journey. We will pick you up from your accommodation and drive through the scenic countryside to the charming town of Mollepata, located at 2,900 meters (9,514 feet) above sea level. Here, you will enjoy a warm welcome and a hearty breakfast to energize you for the day ahead.

After breakfast, the adventure continues with a drive to Soraypampa, the starting point of the Salkantay Hike Peru at an altitude of 3,900 meters (12,795 feet). The breathtaking landscapes along the way will include rolling valleys, terraced farmlands, and snow-capped peaks in the distance. As we reach Soraypampa, you will have a chance to stretch, adjust to the altitude, and prepare for the first hiking section of the trek.

Your guide will lead you on a trail toward the spectacular Humantay Lake, a turquoise gem nestled in the shadow of towering glaciers. The hike will take approximately 1.5 to 2 hours, covering a moderate uphill distance of around 2.5 kilometers (1.5 miles). While the climb may challenge you, the stunning views of the Andes will inspire you to keep moving forward.

Reaching Humantay Lake at 4,200 meters (13,779 feet) will feel like a true reward. You will have time to marvel at the serene waters, framed by dramatic glacial peaks, and take photos to capture the beauty of this sacred site. Your guide will share the cultural significance of the lake, offering insights into the connection between the Andean people and their natural surroundings.

After soaking in the tranquility of Humantay Lake, we will descend back to Soraypampa, where a nourishing lunch will await you. Fresh, local ingredients will ensure you are fueled and ready for the rest of the day. You will then settle into your first campsite, surrounded by stunning mountain vistas that create the perfect setting for relaxation.

As the sun sets over the Andes, the evening will bring time to unwind and bond with fellow trekkers. A warm dinner, prepared by our expert cooks, will round out the day. You can expect a comfortable night under the stars, with cozy tents and warm sleeping bags provided to ensure a good rest. This day on the Salkantay Trail offers a glimpse of the incredible journey ahead, leaving you eager for what lies beyond the mountains.

  • Meals: Lunch, Dinner
  • Accommodation: Camping
  • Maximum Altitude: 3,900 m (12,795 ft)
  • Minimum Altitude: 2,850 m (9,350 ft)
  • Distance Travelled: 14 km (8.7 miles)

Day 2Soraypampa - Salkantay Pass - Huayramachay - Chaullay

The second day of the Salkantay Trail Peru begins with an early wake-up call in Soraypampa. As the sun rises over the snow-capped peaks, you will enjoy a hot breakfast to fuel you for the most challenging yet rewarding part of the trek. The day’s hike will take you to the highest point of the Salkantay Hike Peru, the majestic Salkantay Pass.

The trail ascends steadily from Soraypampa, winding through rugged terrain and offering spectacular views of the surrounding Andes. The climb will take you to an altitude of 4,650 meters (15,255 feet), where you will stand at the Salkantay Pass.

Reaching this point is an unforgettable moment. The towering Salkantay Mountain, with its snow-covered summit, dominates the horizon, and the air is crisp and pure. Your guide will provide fascinating insights into the significance of this sacred mountain, revered by the Andean people as an apu, or protector spirit.

You will have time to rest at the pass, soak in the incredible views, and capture the beauty of the Andes with your camera. The descent from the pass begins gently, leading you toward the warmer climate of the tropical zone. The landscape will change dramatically as you continue along the Salkantay Trail Peru, leaving behind the icy peaks and entering lush greenery.

The next stop will be at Huayramachay, where you will enjoy a well-deserved lunch. The flavors of traditional Andean cuisine will revive your energy for the rest of the day. After lunch, the trail takes you deeper into the cloud forest, where the air becomes warmer and the vegetation denser. You will notice vibrant plants, cascading waterfalls, and the occasional sight of colorful birds or butterflies.

By late afternoon, you will arrive at Chaullay, located at an altitude of 2,900 meters (9,514 feet). This will be your campsite for the night, surrounded by the soothing sounds of nature. After settling in, you will relax with a delicious dinner prepared by our skilled cooks. The day will end with a sense of accomplishment and the anticipation of new adventures on the trail ahead. 

This part of the Salkantay Hike Peru showcases the incredible diversity of the Andes, making it a highlight of the journey.

  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  • Accommodation: Camping
  • Maximum Altitude: 4,650 m (15,255 ft)
  • Minimum Altitude: 2,900 m (9,514 ft)
  • Distance Travelled:  22 km (13.7 miles)

Day 3Chaullay - La Playa - Santa Teresa - Aguas Calientes

The third day of the Peru Salkantay Trek begins with an early breakfast at Chaullay, surrounded by the lush greenery of the cloud forest. The morning air will feel fresh, and the sound of nearby waterfalls will energize you for the day ahead. The trail leads downhill, taking you deeper into the tropical region where the flora and fauna become even more vibrant.

You will walk along a scenic path filled with coffee plantations, fruit trees, and colorful wildflowers. The changing landscape offers a chance to experience the biodiversity of the Andes and the Amazon as they blend. Along the way, your guide will share stories about the local communities and explain how the region’s agriculture thrives in this fertile land.

By mid-morning, you will reach La Playa, a tranquil spot where you can rest and enjoy a snack. From here, you will take a short drive to Santa Teresa, a small town known for its thermal baths and charming atmosphere. The journey will showcase more of the subtropical environment, with opportunities to see exotic birds and other wildlife.

After exploring Santa Teresa, you will continue toward Hidroeléctrica, where the final walking stretch begins. This part of the trail follows the train tracks toward Aguas Calientes, the gateway to Machu Picchu. The path is flat and scenic, with breathtaking views of the towering mountains and the roaring Urubamba River. The sense of anticipation will grow as you get closer to the ancient Inca citadel.

Arriving in Aguas Calientes by late afternoon, you will check into a comfortable hotel. The evening will be yours to relax, explore the town, or enjoy a hearty dinner. The excitement for the final day will fill the air as you prepare for your guided tour of Machu Picchu. This day of the Salkantay Trail Peru blends adventure, cultural insights, and serene landscapes, creating memories that will last a lifetime.

  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  • Accommodation: Camping
  • Maximum Altitude: 4,650 m (15,255 ft)
  • Minimum Altitude: 2,900 m (9,514 ft)
  • Distance Travelled:  22 km (13.7 miles)

Day 4Aguas Calientes - Machu Picchu - Cusco

The final day of the Salkantay Hike Peru begins early, as the excitement of visiting Machu Picchu fills the morning air. After a light breakfast at your hotel in Aguas Calientes, you will make your way to the bus station for a short ride of 30 minutes to the entrance of the ancient citadel. The journey takes you along winding roads surrounded by lush vegetation, with glimpses of the towering mountains that have protected this Inca treasure for centuries.

As you arrive at Machu Picchu, the anticipation will grow with every step toward the entrance. Your guide will lead you on a comprehensive tour of the citadel, sharing fascinating stories about its history, construction, and significance. You will explore the iconic structures of this UNESCO World Heritage Site, including the Sun Temple, the agricultural terraces, and the mysterious Intihuatana Stone. The views from Machu Picchu are breathtaking, with dramatic peaks and the flowing Urubamba River creating a truly awe-inspiring setting.

You will have time to soak in the beauty of the surroundings and take photos to capture the magic of this moment. The serene atmosphere of Machu Picchu will make the journey along the Salkantay Trail Peru feel even more rewarding. For those with extra energy, there is an option to hike to the Sun Gate or climb Huayna Picchu, offering panoramic views of the site and the surrounding valleys.

After the guided tour, you will return to Aguas Calientes. Here, you can relax, enjoy a meal, and reflect on your incredible experience before boarding the train back to Ollantaytambo. The scenic train ride will take you through the Sacred Valley, offering one last glimpse of the Andes’ natural beauty. From Ollantaytambo, a comfortable transfer will take you back to Cusco, where the journey concludes.

This final day of the Salkantay Trail is a celebration of discovery and wonder, marking the perfect end to an adventure that combines history, culture, and nature. The memories of Machu Picchu and the challenges of the Salkantay Hike will stay with you long after your return.

  • Meals: Breakfast
  • Tour: Visit to Machu Picchu
  • Distance: Approx. 6 km (3.7 miles)
  • Maximum Altitude: 2,430 m (7,972 ft)
Photos
4 Reviews
Sort By:RatingDate

Sophia Kim

Group Traveller

Our group of six had an amazing time. The guides ensured everyone stayed safe and motivated. The meals were surprisingly good for being in the mountains!

January 22, 2025

Luis González

Group Traveller

The camaraderie in our group was incredible, and the trek was perfectly paced for all fitness levels. Loved every moment!

January 22, 2025

Emily Watson

Solo Traveller

The trek was a life-changing experience! The breathtaking views of Salkantay Pass made every step worth it. Highly recommended for solo adventurers!

January 17, 2025

Aarav Patel

Solo Traveller

Fantastic organization! The trek exceeded my expectations with stunning landscapes and great camaraderie

January 7, 2025