Salkantay Trek 4 days
Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu 4 days 3 nights
420 usd
- Cusco - Mollepata - Soraypampa - Humantay Lake - Salkantay Mountain - Aguas Calientes - Machu PiCCHU
Salkantay Trek 4 Days to Machu Picchu: An Express and Unforgettable Adventure
Salkantay Express is an adventure designed to experience the best of Salkantay and Machu Picchu in just 4 days.
This itinerary offers the perfect balance of breathtaking natural attractions. Day 01 beginning with the stunning Humantay Lake. You’ll then spend a magical night at our strategically located campsite, nestled between the majestic Salkantay Mountain and the Humantay Glacier.
On Day 2, with an adventurous spirit, you’ll conquer the majestic Salkantay Pass at 4,700 meters, an epic moment that marks the start of your descent towards the cozy Chahullay campsite.
Day 3 takes you into the fascinating tropical cloud forest, rich in local agriculture and biodiversity, before reaching the charming town of Aguas Calientes, where you’ll enjoy a well-deserved rest in a comfortable hotel—preparing you for the grand finale of your adventure.
On Day 4, you will finally explore the iconic wonder of Machu Picchu, an experience that will leave you in awe. After an unforgettable visit, your adventure will end with a scenic journey back to Cusco aboard the Vistadome or 360° train, both designed with large windows to let you fully appreciate the stunning landscapes along the way.
This express adventure is designed for those seeking an immersive yet efficient way to discover the beauty of the Salkantay Trek and Machu Picchu in just four unforgettable days!
Salkantay Trek 4 days Details
- The most diverse trekking route in Peru. A journey combines majestic glaciers, exquisite lakes, dense tropical forest cover and a bird’s-eye view of sacred mountains.
- An authentic camping experience. Cozy nights lie ahead of you in Andean cabins bedecked with sleeping bags. The last night of your road takes place the village of Aguas Calientes, in a high standard hotel with three stars.
- Price is fair for a superior experience. We are happy to offer a service designed to meet your satisfaction and ensure your safety at a reasonable price, covering tickets, transportation, meal costs and accommodations fees for qualified staff. Altogether, such value ensures an exciting trip without unexpected circumstances.
- Delicious gastronomy. Savor the exquisite dishes made by a chef from areas of expertise such as vegetarian cooking or allergy-friendly food. On the trek, menus are composed of nutritious produce and organic material; there are no snacks available so that you always have energy reserves for later stages in your journey towards Machu Picchu peak.
- Return On the Vistadome train 360: Travel back to Cuzco is taken either Vistadome or 360. Designed with windows which offer beautiful views when you go rolling passing through tunnels.
- Bus to Machu Picchu. We include the bus fare from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu, to allow you to arrive as free of fatigue as possible and get the most from your visit to this phenomenal wonder.
- Personal luggage transportation. By horse: we will transport your luggage to allow you to enjoy your walk as lightly as possible—carrying no more than a day’s essential items along with you.
- Expert guides along the route. Our team consists of guides with extensive experience in trekking, deep cultural knowledge and fluency in more than one language (Spanish, English and Quechua). Of course, we also prioritize your safety and health.
- Customizable options. We adjust the itinerary and timetable so it meets your personal requirements. Each and every experience is entirely personalized for you
- Responsible tourism. We work with local people, pay fair wages and make sure that they are treated well. Through this cooperation we give communities a lot of support; meanwhile we are committed to minimizing our environmental impact on the surrounding nature of the Andes.
Salkantay Trek 4 days at a Glance
01
Day 1: Cusco – Mollepata – Challacancha – Soraypampa – Laguna Humantay – Comfortable Andean Cabins
- Distance: Approx. 10 km / 6.21 miles
- Altitude: 3,800 m (12,467 ft) – 4,200 m (13,780 ft)
- Temperature:
- DAYTIME: 10-15°C (50-59°F)
- Night: -5°C to 5°C (23°F to 41°F)
Highlights: Your adventure starts with morning pick-up from your hotel in Cusco between 4:10 AM and 4:40 AM in a private vehicle for only you and your group. You will stop by Molletapa, the last village before entering the Salkantay park, to buy snacks, water, or mosquito repellent if needed. Then it’s a 2.5-hour drive through Challacancha to Soraypampa. From there you’ll trek up to the spectacular Humantay Lake, known for its turquoise waters that are surrounded by the towering mountains. You will spend the night in Andean cabins in the comfort of the Andes after a day of hiking.
02
Day 2: Soraypampa – Salkantay Pass – Huayracmachay – Chaullay – Collpapampa – lovely Andean cabins
- Distance: 22 km / 13.7 miles
- Elevation: 4,200 m (13,780 ft) – 3,000 m (9,843 ft)
- Weather: (Day: 50°F to 59°F | Night: 23°F to 41°F) | Temperature: (Day: 10°C to 15°C | Night: -5°C to 5°C)
Highlights: The day begins with a long and steep climb up to the highest point of the trek, the Salkantay Pass (4,600 m / 15,091 ft), with stunning views of snow-covered mountains. Descend to Huayracmachay, then continue through the lush cloud forest to Chaullay and Collpapampa, where you’ll spend the night in comfortable Andean cabins.
03
Day 3: Collpapampa – La Playa – Lucmabamba – Hidroelectrica – Aguas Calientes Town.
- Distance: 27 km / 16.78 miles
- Altitude: 2,800 m (9,186 ft) — 2,000 m (6,561 ft)
- Temperature: Day: 20° to 25°C (68 to 77°F) | Night: 10° to 15°C (50 to 59°F)
Highlights: The jungle green attire of the day, ascending in the flatness. You’ll walk through La Playa, a colorful area filled with tropical vegetation before arriving at Lucmabamba for lunch. From there, continue your journey to Hidroelectrica followed by a scenic walk to Aguas Calientes, where you’ll spend the night at a comfortable 3-star hotel.
04
Day 4: Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu – Ollantaytambo – Cuzco
- Distance: 4 km/2.5 miles (Machu Picchu)
- Altitude: 2,430 m (7,972 ft)
- Temperature: Day: 65°F to 77°F (18°C to 25°C) | Night: 59°F to 68°F (15°C to 20°C)
Highlights: Machu Picchu (Beat the crowds!) – 4hrs
Rise and shine, take the first bus up to Machu Picchu, and beat the crowds where you’ll have the opportunity to marvel at this legendary citadel with your private guide. After your unforgettable visit, climb aboard the Panoramic Vistadome train and bus back to Cusco, with heart-stopping views of the Andes along the way.
Extra hikes after the guided tour in Machu Picchu:
- Huayna Picchu Mountain – US$ 65 per person
You can climb Huayna Picchu Mountain for amazing views. The trip takes 2 hours round trip, and you need to book far in advance.
- Machu Picchu Mountain Hike – US$ 65 per person
This is the highest mountain in Machu Picchu. The hike is a round trip that takes three hours.
Salkantay Trek 4 Days Full Itinerary
01
Cusco – Mollepata – Challacancha – Soraypampa – Humantay Lake – cozy Andean Cabins
Your adventure starts first thing in the morning. We will collect you from your hotel at 4:10 a.m. to begin the journey in our comfortable private group transport, allowing you a little more sleep on the way. After a 2-hour drive, we’ll have a rest in Mollepata, the last town before Salkantay. (Here, you’ll have the opportunity to pick up basics like snacks, mosquito repellent, rain ponchos and coca leaves to ease altitude discomfort.) You will also enjoy a tasty local breakfast, included in your package.
From Mollepata, we’ll head on to Challacancha, the launching point of our hike. There, you’ll encounter our team of cooks and horsemen, who will be instrumental in ensuring that this trek is unforgettable. We’ll also do a final check of our gear before we leave on our adventure.
The hike starts with a 3-hour moderate hike to Soraypampa (3,900 m / 12,795 ft) This 7 km (4.35 miles) stretch is mostly level with a gradual uphill through a beautiful glacier valley. On the way, you’ll spot the remnants of an ancient Inca water channel that has been restored and is still used by local farmers today.
Once we reach Soraypampa we will get rest in our Exclusive Andean Cabins – specially designed for your comfort in the heart of nature. After a well-deserved break, you will have a delicious lunch prepared by our chef to refuel for the next part of the adventure.
In the afternoon, we’ll start hiking to the stunning Humantay Lake (4,200 m / 13,780 ft). This 3 km (1.86 miles) round-trip hike can be completed in 3 hours. While to our lowland legs the distance is small, the elevation gain calls for a slower tempo. When you get there, you’ll be entranced by alpine turquoise water framed by the jagged Humantay Glacier — it looks like something out of fairy tale.
Back at the camp, tea time will unfold: a time to share hot beverages, snacks and that favorite popcorn to relive memories of your first day. Afterward, you’ll enjoy a gourmet Andean buffet dinner, paired with a stunning sunset over the mountains.
The calm energy of this space will embrace you and prepare you for a good night’s rest. You’ll sleep in our glass-roofed cabins, which allow you to gaze upon a starry sky, constellations and, perhaps, a shooting star. Each morning you wake to the breathtaking sight of the Apu Salkantay who greets you in the morning sun waiting for you to start a new day of adventure.
- Hiking Distance: 10 km / 6.21 mi
- Duration: 5 – 6 hours
- Campsite Altitude: 3,900 m / 12,795 ft
- Highest Altitude: 4,200 m / 13,779 ft
- Meals: Breakfast, snacks, lunch, tea, dinner
- Accommodation: Comfortable Andean Cabins
- Difficulty: Moderate
02
Soraypampa - pass Salkantay - Huayracmachay - Chaullay - Collpapampa ( cozy Andean Cabins)
The Spectacular Salkantay Pass and Decline into the Amazon Rainforest
As the day starts, you will wake with the first rays of the sun hitting the majestic Apu Salkantay. Our chef will deliver to your room a steaming cup of coca tea to you to start your morning off well. Then enjoy a healthy breakfast that can sustain the day’s adventure.
The tour begins with a strenuous 7 km (4.35 mi) hike approximately 3 hours, to the highest point of the trek: the Salkantay Pass (4,630 m / 15,190 ft) The climb is arduous, especially along the curve-clad stretch of the “Pathway of Seven Snakes.”
Once at the top, you’ll be clicking away at views of the surrounding valleys and the majestic Salkantay Mountain (6,271 m / 20,574 ft), Peru’s second-highest peak in the Cusco region. It is known as an Apu (Inca god) which represents protection and strength. Upon reaching the summit, your guide will honor the Apus and Pachamama (Mother Earth) with a sacred ceremony, gratitude rituals and a request for blessings on your next journey.
After admiring the breathtaking scenery and enjoying an ample rest, you will descend 7 km down to Huayracmachay (3,850 m / 12,631 ft), where a delicious and energizing lunch will await. This section of the trek is steep and rocky, but the dramatic views of the surrounding valleys make every step worth it.
After lunch, you’ll start moving toward the edge of the Amazon rainforest and into the cloud forest. This part is 9.5 km (5.9 mi) long and takes about 3.5 hours. Here, you’ll see a dramatic change in scenery as you head down from the Andes toward the rich foliage of the Amazon. Your region welcomes you with a warmer climate, surrounded by vibrant tropical vegetation, unique wildlife, and native plants.
You will hike all day and arrive to Collpapampa and cozy Andean Cabins. Enjoy a filling, comforting dinner to finish the day, enjoying the serenity and beauty of the surroundings. As you nestle in for the night, jungle sounds will soothe you to sleep, and make you ready for the adventures of the next day.
- Hiking Distance: 23.5 km / 14.6 mi
- Duration: 10 – 11 hours
- Campsite Altitude: 2,950 m / 9,678 ft
- Highest Altitude: 4,630 m / 15,190 ft
- Meals: Breakfast, snacks, lunch, tea, dinner
- Accommodation: Comfortable Andean Cabins
- Difficulty: Challenging
03
Collpapampa – La Playa – Lucmabamba – Hidroelectrica – Aguas Calientes Town.
We’ll wake you up at 6:00 AM for a quick and energizing breakfast before embarking on today’s adventure. Our journey takes us through the stunning Santa Teresa Valley, where a 5-hour trek will immerse you in the lush tropical landscape. As we hike, you’ll encounter flowing rivers, vibrant wild orchids, and an array of plantations, including coffee, bananas, and avocados. Along the way, you’ll also have the chance to taste fresh granadilla and passion fruit, straight from the source.
Continuing our hike, we’ll descend to the valley floor and cross to the other side of the mountains, entering a verdant tropical paradise. Here, we’ll be surrounded by cascading waterfalls, exotic birds, and abundant fruit trees, as well as a rich diversity of flora and fauna.
Upon reaching La Playa, we’ll enjoy our final lunch prepared by our talented chefs while relaxing and enjoying a special coffee demonstration. Afterward, we’ll board transportation to Hidroeléctrica train station. From there, we continue hiking alongside the railway tracks, surrounded by dense vegetation and following the path of the Urubamba River. If you’re feeling tired, you have the option to take the train to Aguas Calientes for an additional $37.00.
As we pass through this tropical paradise, you’ll spot more plantations and exotic plants, along with a diverse array of bird species, including Peru’s national bird, the vibrant cock of the rock (El Gallito de las Rocas).
After approximately three hours of hiking, we will arrive in Aguas Calientes, where you’ll be taken to your hotel to relax and unwind. Your comfortable room features a private bathroom, hot shower, WiFi, and breakfast in the morning, along with luggage storage, so you can safely leave your belongings while you explore the town’s famous hot springs.
In the evening, we’ll gather for a delicious dinner at a renowned local restaurant, celebrating the journey so far. Afterward, it’s time to rest and recharge, as tomorrow we’ll wake up before sunrise for the final and most anticipated adventure—exploring the majestic Machu Picchu!
- Hiking Distance: 17 km / 10.6 mi
- Duration: 5 – 6 hours
- Campsite Altitude: 2,000 m / 6,562 ft
- Highest Altitude: 2,950 m / 9,678 ft
- Meals: Breakfast, snacks, lunch, tea, dinner
- Accommodation: Comfortable Jungle Cabins
- Difficulty: Moderate
04
Explore the Wonders of Machu Picchu & Return to Cusco
The Final Day of the Salkantay Trek: Discovering One of the New Seven Wonders
The moment you have all been waiting for! Today you’ll enter the breathtaking realm of Machu Picchu, the mythical city of the Inca Empire that was mysteriously abandoned in the 16th century and rediscovered centuries later. Its ancient citadel on top of a mountain pinnacle that seems impossible to reach is the crowning moment of your journey and will leave you speechless.
You wake up before dawn, full of excitement for the day ahead, have a great breakfast at your hotel, then get on the earliest bus to see the magnificent sunrise over Machu Picchu. It is something that you will keep in your heart for as long as you have it when you watch the sun light up this architectural masterpiece.
Led by your expert guide, embark on an in-depth exploration of the citadel, unearthing the mysteries of its sacred temples, encompassing palaces, and open plazas. Walk through the heart of the Incas’ most iconic creation and learn about their ingenious engineering, spiritual beliefs and daily life. This guided tour takes about 3 hours, after which you’ll be free to stay and soak up the atmosphere of this magical place.
For the adventurous type, there is also the option to trek Huayna Picchu or the lofty Machu Picchu Mountain, each of which provides spectacular vistas of the citadel, and the valleys where it lies.
Head down by bus to Aguas Calientes for a lunch of your choosing when your exploring is done. Check out of the hotel and make the picturesque drive back to Cusco. The unique Panoramic Train offers wide windows for a breathtaking view of the Andes pass as you travel through the Sacred Valley.
Upon our arrival at Ollantaytambo, we will have a private van waiting to take us back to Cusco, where the SAP ADVENTURES Team will have us around 7:30 p.m. at your hotel, to end this experience in the best possible way.
- Bus Distance: 8.7 km /5.4 mi
- Tour Guide Duration: 2 – 3 hours
- Aguas Calientes Altitude: 2,040 m / 6.6 ft
- Machu Picchu Altitude: 2,430 m / 7,97 ft
- Meals: Breakfast
- Difficulty: Easy
Inclusions
Not Included
The day before the tour we have a safety briefing
You will receive a full safety and tour briefing at your hotel or our office before commencing the trek to cover all safety measures and details about the tour. This meeting will provide you with all of the information that you will need to have a positive experience.
Hotel pick-up and drop-off
We will pick you up from your hotel in Cusco at the agreed time and take you back with private transport at the end of the trek.
Transportation during the tour
The tour involves a lot of private transport: between the different starting points, camps, getting back by train from Aguas Calientes. Our transportation in comfortable and safe.
4 days with a professional mountain guide
For the whole trek, you will be accompanied by a professional mountain guide. Our staff contains local guides who have trekking, cultural experience and are trained in first-aid. They’ll guide the group and be there to keep you safe.
Return on the Vistadome or 360° panoramic train
If departing are you will be returning from Aguas Calientes, experience a panoramic return train ride in a modern vehicle either on the Vistadome & 360° trains, all boasting big windows that provide spectacular perspectives of the Andes.
Day 4 Aguas Calientes → > Machu Picchu Bus
And to explore this architectural wonder, we provide a bus ticket for the day of your visit for you to avoid hiking up to the citadel.
Salkantay trail and Humantay lake Entrance tickets
Entry tickets to highlights in the tour such as the Salkantay Trail, Humantay Lake, and of course Machu Picchu are part of this package, assuring you get to see amazing places.
Traditional style camping
On this trek, you will spend 3 nights in rustic Andean cabins nestled in the untouched nature. The last night will be in a standard 3 stars hotel in Aguas Calientes to rest and get ready for Machupicchu and back to Cusco.
Andean gastronomy – what exceptional food!
Breakfast, lunch and dinner will be prepared by our trained cook throughout the trek. Menus are tailored to dietary needs (vegetarian, vegan or allergy-friendly options) and made with organic ingredients. Meals are served Andean buffet style, with the exception of the final lunch, after visiting Machu Picchu, which will be à la carte.
Baggage (carried by horses)
We will carry one pack per person with your personal items, and this is transported by horses during the trek. This means that you can hike without the weight, simply bringing what you would need for the day.
Oxygen, satellite phones and first-aid kit
Your safety is our priority. We carry a complete first-aid kit, satellite phones for communication in out-of-the-way regions, and supplemental oxygen for emergencies or altitude sickness.
Salkantay Trek Sleeping bag
The sleeping bag that they provide for the Salkantay Trek is a high-quality bag; it will be warm and withstand the chilly temperatures of the mountains at night.
This package aims to provide you with a complete, secure, and unique experience of the Salkantay Trek, with every detail included for your comfort and enjoyment.
Not Included
Last day lunch:
The last day lunch after the visit of Machu Picchu is not included.
Travel Insurance:
The package doesn’t include travel insurance. We suggest that you buy travel insurance for your trip.
Salkantay Trek 4 Days Packing List
Before You Begin
Most hotels and hostels in Cusco provide complimentary free luggage storage for items you won’t take on the trek.
Your gear will be split into two sections:
- Duffle Bag: We will give everyone a duffle bag to use at our office on the day before the start of your trek and you can pack up to 6 kg in the bag (sleeping bag included). These will be carried by mules for the first two days and then dropped off at your hotel in Aguas Calientes.
- Daypack: You’ll carry a backpack containing the essentials for each day. A comfortable hiking weight is recommended as 5 to 8kg.
- What to Pack in Your Daypack: Always have these key items with you just in case:
- Original Passport: stored in a secure compartment ideally in a waterproof bag since it can rain at any time
- Rain Gear: A plastic poncho plus a waterproof jacket. Poncho – Your worst enemy would be heavy rains during a trek.
- Sunscreen and Lip Balm: The sun at altitude can be powerful; guard your skin and lips.
- Toilet Paper: Handy for local bathrooms (yes, most charge one sol for use)
- Insect Repellent: Beginning on your second day, you’ll be in the jungle, an area where mosquitoes are prevalent. It is advisable also to wear long-sleeved clothing.
- Outerwear: A warm jacket for the cool mornings, and a lighter one for the Layering is important when it comes to adjusting to fluctuating temperatures.
- Energy Snacks: Beef or fish jerky, energy bars (you can try something like Kind bars), chocolate, granola, and candy to keep you energized the 6-8 hours worth of trekking you will do each day.
- Water Container: You need a bottle or hydration system with at least a 2-liter capacity. The first lunch will also see it being refilled with purified water.
- Flashlight or Headlamp: Helpful for getting around the campsite and starting hikes early in the morning.
- Hats and Sunglasses: A hat for sun and a warm hat for evening On chilly mornings, it’s gloves that are also a good
- Cash on Hand: Carry 600 soles (200 USD) in small, easily exchanged bills for bathrooms, snacks, souvenirs, and tips.
- Personal medicines: Band-aids, pain relievers, altitude illness medication, anti-nausea tablets, ovules.
- Camera or Phone — Take pictures of the stunning scenery and memorable moments.
- What to Bring in the Duffle Bag
- Sleeping Bag (should be rated for up to -10°C): Alternatively, we can provide a sleeping bag from our office free of charge if you don’t have one.
- Hiking Boots: Waterproof, lightweight, and already worn to avoid blisters.
- Sandals — Wonderful for kicking back at the campsite after a day of hiking.
- Underwear and Socks: Bring at least 6 pairs of wool socks and underwear.
- Pants and Shirts: 2-3 trekking pants (breathable), 1-2 sweatshirt (for the evenings) and 5 Shirts (long sleeves are preferable).
- Wet wipes: Great for touching up some freshness at the end of the day.
- Swimsuit: Only if you plan to use the hot springs in Santa Teresa or Aguas Calientes.
- Trekking Poles: Each participant is responsible for their own poles. You can also rent them if needed..
- Inflatable Mattress: We do provide foam mats for you, but an inflatable mattress can give you some added comfort.
Final Tips
Use Waterproof Bags: Pack your equipment in waterproof bags to keep it dry if the rain arrives unexpectedly.
02 Pack smart: Only bring what you need so your load remains manageable and you can maximize your enjoyment on the trek.
Training physically and mentally: While the Salkantay Trek is a challenge, it is also a life-changing experience. With every step, you draw closer to the mighty Machu Picchu!
See you on the trail! We wish you an incredible adventure with the awe of the Andes!
Salkantay Trek 4 days Price
Salkantay Trek 4 days RETURN by Train
$420 USD
$400 USD
Salkantay Trek 4 days Price RETURN by Car
$330 USD
$310 USD
To reserve the Salkantay Trek 5 days, it is necessary to make an initial payment of US$ 250 per person. The remaining balance can be paid online or at our offices in Cusco with any credit card or cash.
Student Discount:
- US$ 20 off per person
- All travelers under 17 years of age are eligible for the 20 USD discount.
- All travelers under 25 years of age and who are students are eligible for the 20 USD discount.
Valid Student ID for Machu Picchu:
To obtain the student discount, travelers must have a valid ID with the following:
Invalid student ID cards:
Student ID cards are not valid when:
- Over 25 years of age cannot be entered as a student.
- The card must have the name of the university, name and photo of the student.
- The card must have a valid expiration date
- Expired student ID card
- Student ID card without expiration date
- ISIC cards are not valid.
Similar tours you might also like!
Exclusive campsites
Comfortable Andean Cabins in Soraypampa
Our cozy Andean Cabins are nestled in Soraypampa, right in front of the breathtaking Humantay and Salkantay mountains. This campsite offers a unique connection between earth and sky, allowing you to sleep peacefully under a deep blue, starlit sky while enjoying the comfort of a first-class vacation retreat.
📍 Location: Soraypampa
⛰️ Altitude: 3,900 m / 12,795 ft
👥 Capacity: 2 people per cabin
🍽️ Meals included: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
Comfortable Andean Cabins in Chaullay
Our cozy Andean Cabins are nestled in Soraypampa, right in front of the breathtaking Humantay and Salkantay mountains. This campsite offers a unique connection between earth and sky, allowing you to sleep peacefully under a deep blue, starlit sky while enjoying the comfort of a first-class vacation retreat.
📍 Location: Chaullay
⛰️ Altitude: 2,950 m / 9,678 ft
👥 Capacity: 2 people per cabin
🍽️ Meals included: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
Hotel in Aguas Calientes
Our cozy Andean Cabins are nestled in Soraypampa, right in front of the breathtaking Humantay and Salkantay mountains. This campsite offers a unique connection between earth and sky, allowing you to sleep peacefully under a deep blue, starlit sky while enjoying the comfort of a first-class vacation retreat.
📍 Location: Aguas Calientes
⛰️ Altitude: 2,040 m / 6,693 ft
👥 Capacity: Double, Matrimonial, and Triple
🍽️ Meals included: Breakfast
FAQS
Should I do a 4-day or 5-day Salkantay Trek?
- The 4-day trek is faster-paced with longer daily hikes, ideal for experienced trekkers or those on a tighter schedule.
- The 5-day trek offers a more gradual pace, extra time for acclimatization, and a chance to explore more viewpoints and hot springs.
- If you prefer a less intense experience, the 5-day trek is recommended.
How many miles is the 4-day Salkantay Trek?
The 4-day trek covers approximately 60 km (37 miles) from the starting point to Machu Picchu.
How hard is the 4-day hike to the Inca Trail?
The Salkantay Trek is harder than the traditional Inca Trail due to higher altitudes, steeper climbs, and longer distances. The Inca Trail has more archaeological sites, while Salkantay is more of a high-altitude adventure through diverse landscapes.
What is the hardest day of the Salkantay Trek?
- Day 2 is the toughest because you hike to the Salkantay Pass (4,650m/15,255ft)—the highest point of the trek.
- It involves steep ascents, high altitudes, and cold temperatures, making it physically demanding.
Is the Salkantay Trek harder than the Inca Trail?
Yes, Salkantay is generally harder due to:
- Higher altitudes (Salkantay Pass at 4,650m vs. Dead Woman’s Pass at 4,215m on the Inca Trail).
- Longer hiking distances per day.
- More varied terrain, from snowy passes to humid jungles.
However, the Inca Trail has more stairs and can be challenging in its own way.
Where do you sleep on the Salkantay Trek?
- Most treks include camping at scenic spots like Soraypampa, Chaullay, and Lucmabamba.
- Some upgraded tours offer eco-lodges or glass domes for added comfort.
- The last night is usually in a hotel in Aguas Calientes before visiting Machu Picchu.
Can you get altitude sickness on the Salkantay Trek?
Yes, altitude sickness is common, especially around Salkantay Pass (4,650m/15,255ft).
To reduce the risk:
- Spend 2–3 days acclimating in Cusco before the trek.
- Drink plenty of water and coca tea.
- Avoid alcohol and heavy meals before hiking.
- Consider bringing altitude sickness medication (e.g., Diamox).
How to prepare for the Salkantay Trek?
- Train with hikes at least 6-8 weeks before the trek, focusing on endurance and leg strength.
- Practice hiking with a backpack to simulate trek conditions.
- Do cardio workouts like running, cycling, or stair climbing.
- Arrive in Cusco 2-3 days early to acclimate.
- Pack proper hiking gear, including:
- Good hiking boots with ankle support
- Warm layers for cold nights
- Rain gear (especially in wet season)
- Trekking poles for stability
- Reusable water bottle & purification tablets
Reserve now with a small deposit and finish later.
Trip Details
- Tour Type: Group Tour
- Duration: 4 Days 3 Nights
- Activities:Hiking, Adventure, Exploration, Cultural.
- Group Size: 6 - 12
- Difficulty: moderate to Challenging
- Lodging: Cozy Cabins, camping (panoramic roofs) and standard 3-star inn
- Languages: English, Spanish, Quechua
- Total Distance: 64 km/39.8 m