Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu Return by Train 4D–3N

ITINERARY
INCLUSIONS
PRICES
HOW TO BOOK
STUDENT DISCOUNT
Ask for availability

OVERVIEW

The 4-Day Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu is an extraordinary adventure that combines breathtaking scenery, diverse landscapes, and cultural experiences. With majestic glacier mountains, picturesque lakes like Humantay and Salkantay, and a trek through the lush Amazon jungle, this journey offers unparalleled beauty and excitement. By booking with our experienced team, you’ll enjoy exclusive camps with luxurious accommodations, knowledgeable guides, and exceptional service. The trek includes highlights such as crossing high altitude passes, exploring the ancient Inca Trail, and visiting the stunning Llactapata ruins with a unique view of Machu Picchu. This trek is a once-in-a-lifetime experience, recognized by National Geographic as one of the world’s best. Choose us for an unforgettable and all-inclusive adventure to Machu Picchu.

ITINERARY

DAY 1: Cusco | Mollepata – Challacancha – Soraypampa (Humantay Lake)
Pick Up and Transfer: Cusco – Challacancha
We pick you up at 5:00 AM for a scenic 4-hour drive to Challacancha, passing through Anta and Mollepata. We make a short stop for restrooms and optional breakfast. Along the way, enjoy panoramic views of the snow-capped Apus Salkantay and Humantay.
Trekking: Challacancha – Soraypampa
Upon arrival at Challacancha, we meet our trekking team and begin a 3-hour hike to Soraypampa (3,850 m). The 7 km trail offers beautiful Andean landscapes and sections of an ancient aqueduct still used by local communities.
Lunch & Rest: Soraypampa Campsite
We arrive at our first campsite in Soraypampa and enjoy lunch with stunning mountain views. After a short rest, we prepare for an afternoon hike
Hike to Humantay Lake
In the afternoon, we hike to Humantay Lake (4,200 m), a 5 km round-trip journey. The lake’s vibrant turquoise waters and glacier backdrop create one of the most iconic views of the trek.
Evening: Sunset, Stargazing & Overnight
Back at camp, take in a peaceful sunset and a sky full of stars. With no light pollution, enjoy perfect stargazing before resting in your tent, surrounded by the quiet majesty of the Andes.
Early Morning – Breakfast & Preparation
Our day begins at 5:30 AM with the first light and an energizing breakfast to fuel the most demanding part of the trek.
Ascent to Salkantay Pass
We begin a 7 km (4.34 miles) ascent to the highest point of the route: Salkantay Pass (4,650 MASL / 15,255 FASL). This 3-hour climb leads us through rocky valleys, with the impressive Salkantay Mountain (6,271 MASL / 20,574 FASL) looming above. Along the way, we enjoy panoramic views of the Humantay, Tucarhuay, and Pumasillo peaks.
Salkantay Pass – Sacred Summit Moment
At the summit, we pause to admire Apu Salkantay, one of the most revered mountains in Inca tradition. The surrounding landscapes are stunning and spiritual—a perfect spot for photos and reflection.
Descent to Huayracmachay & Lunch
After enjoying the summit, we descend 5 km (3.1 miles) along a winding gravel path to Huayracmachay, where we stop for a well-earned lunch with sweeping mountain views.
Trek Through the Cloud Forest
In the afternoon, we enter the upper Amazon jungle, known as the cloud forest. This part of the hike covers 10 km (6.2 miles) in about 3 hours, as the landscape transforms dramatically. The climate becomes warmer and more humid, and the surroundings burst with lush vegetation, waterfalls, and wildlife.
Arrival at Chaullay Campsite
We end the day at Chaullay (2,900 MASL / 9,514 FASL), a campsite nestled in the jungle. After a long, challenging, and rewarding journey, we rest and recharge for the adventure ahead.
Morning Trek: Chaullay to La Playa
We begin the day at 6:00 AM with a scenic trek through the lush Santa Teresa Valley. This 6-hour hike immerses you in the vibrant beauty of the cloud forest—rivers, waterfalls, wild orchids, and plantations of coffee, banana, and avocado. Along the trail, taste fresh passion fruit and granadilla. At Colpapampa, known as the “brow of the cloud forest,” you’ll observe a rich variety of flora and fauna—and, if lucky, spot Peru’s national bird, the Cock of the Rock.
Lunch at La Playa & Transfer to Hidroelectrica
After a well-earned lunch at La Playa, we take local transportation (10 soles) to the Hidroelectrica train station, where we begin the final stretch toward Machu Picchu.
Hike to Aguas Calientes
From Hidroelectrica, we hike 3 hours to Aguas Calientes, following the train tracks through lush cloud forest. This path, used by Hiram Bingham during the rediscovery of Machu Picchu, offers a peaceful and scenic journey.
Optional – Train to Aguas Calientes If you prefer to skip the walk, you may take the train from Hidroelectrica to Aguas Calientes (optional, $40 USD). Sit back and enjoy the short ride through jungle landscapes.
Arrival in Aguas Calientes & Free Time
Once in Aguas Calientes, enjoy free time to explore this unique, car-free town. Visit artisan markets, relax in cafés, or simply take in the atmosphere at the base of Machu Picchu.
Dinner & Comfortable Accommodation
At 7:00 PM, we meet for dinner at a local restaurant. All expenses in Aguas Calientes—including meals and lodging—are covered. Enjoy a private room with a hot shower, bathroom, WiFi, and breakfast included. We also provide luggage storage for your visit to Machu Picchu.
Early Morning Visit to Machu Picchu
After a restful night in our hotel, we rise early to visit the iconic Machu Picchu, one of the New 7 Wonders of the World and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Arriving before the crowds lets you experience the citadel in the soft glow of morning light — a truly mystical experience. The entrance opens at 6:00 AM, and you can either hike up or take the optional bus for $12.00 to reach the main gate.
Guided Tour of the Citadel
Once inside, we begin a 2-hour guided tour, exploring the most important parts of the Inca city: Temples, palaces, and terraces The sacred sundial (Intihuatana) The agricultural and residential sectors Learn about the ingenious Inca engineering — no steel, no modern tools — yet they built one of the world’s most impressive cities in perfect harmony with nature.
Free Time & Optional Hikes
After the tour, you’ll have free time to explore more of Machu Picchu on your own. Optional hikes (with advance booking) include: Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain: Around 3 hours round trip Sun Gate (Inti Punku): The original entrance of the Inca Trail (2-hour round trip, no extra ticket required) Inca Bridge: A short, impressive hike to an ancient Inca construction clinging to the cliffside
Return to Cusco
After an extraordinary visit to this iconic site, we return to Aguas Calientes. Depending on availability, we board the tourist-class train to Ollantaytambo at either 7:00 PM or 9:30 PM, followed by a private transfer back to Cusco, arriving approximately at 10:30 PM or 12:30 AM, respectively

INCLUSIONS

PRICES

Adult

$ 230 Book with $92
  • The lowest price guaranteed
  • Real local operator (cusco)
  • English, Spanish
Book with 40% advance
30% off

Student

$ 210 Book with $84
  • The lowest price guaranteed
  • Real local operator (cusco)
  • English, Spanish
Book with 40% advance
30% off
ASK FOR PRIVATE SERVICE
Whatsapp
Contact us

HOW TO BOOK

Choose Your Package

Select the package that best suits your travel plans.

Fill Out the Online Booking Form

Click on the “Book Online” button, choose your travel date, and complete the booking form.Important: Only one person should fill out the form for the entire group to ensure you're all booked together.

Make Your Payment

Secure your booking by paying online with any debit or credit card.Our system will charge 40% of the total amount in advance.

Send Passenger Information

After your payment is completed, our reservations team will contact you via email to request the following information for each passenger (please include a photo or scanned image of the passport): Full name, Passport number, Nationality, Date of birth, Gender, Phone number
Full Payment Method
You can pay the full tour amount upfront to avoid any future payment concerns. Ask for the total payment link.
Balance Payment
The remaining BALANCE is due 48 hours before the tour begins. You can pay in CASH (soles or dollars) or CREDIT CARD (+ 4 %) at the office in Cusco or in your hotel/hostal/apartament.
Travel Insurance
We strongly recommend purchasing travel insurance to protect your investment. Obtain insurance before departing and consider working with a reputable agency for affordable coverage.
Additional Enhacements
Huayna Picchu Mountain or Machu Picchu Mountain: 30 USD (subject to availability). → Check availability Sleeping Bag Rental: 15 USD or the entire trek Trekking Poles Rental: 10 USD one pair for the entire trek Extra night: 20 USD per person based 2 people 40 USD single accommodation

STUDENT DISCOUNT

If your student card meets Peruvian government requirements, reserve the tour with a deposit and pay the remaining balance upon arrival in Cusco. The student discount will be applied at that time.All university cards must be laminated and clearly show the following information:
1

University Name

2

University Logo

3

Student full name and photo

4

Date of currently valid student card

5

You have to be under 25 years old

INCLUSIONS

INCLUDED
  • Salkantay trek briefing at 7:00 pm a day before of the departure at Machu Picchu Reservations office
  • A duffle bag to pack 7 kilos of your belonging that will be carried by horses during the trek
  • English/Spanish speaking professional tour guides
  • Professional chef and cooking equipment
  • Horses for carrying up to 7 Kilos of personal luggage and other required equipment
  • Pick up from your hotel in Cusco
  • Private transportation to head of Salkantay trail
  • 4 breakfasts
  • 3 lunches
  • 3 dinners
  • 2 nights of camping
  • 1 night hotel in Aguas Calientes
  • Mountain Sky Huts with Thick Mattresses, glass door, Night Lighting, and Panoramic for the first and second night
  • Personal pad (double foam – 2.5 inches thick)
  • Pillows at the first and second camp
  • Transportation from La Playa to Hidroelectrica
  • Entrance ticket to Machu Picchu
  • Guided visit to Machu Picchu
  • Return from Aguas Calientes to Cusco BY TRAIN
  • Vegetarian/Vegan options available on request with no additional charges
  • First-Aid equipment and oxygen bottle for emergencies
NOT INCLUDED
  • Entrance ticket for the Humantay lake charged by the local government of Mollepata = 20 soles per person
  • Sleeping Bag – If you do not have one you can rent from us for $15 USD for the whole trek
  • Trekking Poles – If you do not have one you can rent from us for $10 USD for 01 pair for the whole trek
  • Travel insurance
  • Extra expenses such a hot shower in the second camp for 10 soles or maybe if you like access to internet wifi for 10 soles
  • Tips

PRICES

Adult

$ 375
  • The lowest price guaranteed
  • Real local operator (cusco)
  • English, Spanish
30% off

Student

$ 355
  • The lowest price guaranteed
  • Real local operator (cusco)
  • English, Spanish
30% off
ASK FOR PRIVATE SERVICE
Whatsapp
Ask by form

HOW TO BOOK

FOLLOW THESE SIMPLE STEPS:

  1. First select the best package for you.
  2. Fill in “Book Online” FORM, select the date, and complete the booking information. Have one person fill it out for the entire group to ensure you’re booked together.
  3. Make a payment online using any debit or credit card, Our system will charge you 40% in advance of the total number of passengers.
  4. When you complete your payment, you will receive an email from our reservations staff, who will ask you for the following information for each passengers (by email and photo).
  • Name and surname
  • Passport Nro
  • Nationality
  • Date of birth
  • Sex
  • Phone
 

Optional: You can pay the full tour amount upfront to avoid any future payment concerns. Ask for the total payment link.

 

The remaining BALANCE is due 48 hours before the tour begins. You can pay in CASH (soles or dollars) or CREDIT CARD (+ 4 %) at the office in Cusco or in your hotel/hostal/apartament.

 

Travel Insurance: We strongly recommend purchasing travel insurance to protect your investment. Obtain insurance before departing and consider working with a reputable agency for affordable coverage.

 

Additional Enhancements:
Huayna Picchu Mountain: $30 USD (subject to availability). Check availability at https://tuboleto.cultura.pe
Machu Picchu Mountain: $30 USD (subject to availability). Check availability at https://tuboleto.cultura.pe
Sleeping Bag Rental: (for the entire trek): $15 USD
Trekking Poles Rental: (one pair for the entire trek): $10 USD
Upgrade Train: Vistadome – Panoramic Train (if you choose the train return option): $35 USD.
Extra night: $20 USD (per person «based 2 people») $40 USD (Single accommodation)

 

Important: Book the normal tour with a deposit and pay the remaining balance and any additional upgrades you choose upon arrival in Cusco.

STUDENT DISCOUNT

Student Discount: If your student card meets Peruvian government requirements, reserve the tour with a deposit and pay the remaining balance upon arrival in Cusco. The student discount will be applied at that time.

 

All university cards must be laminated and clearly show the following information:

  1. The name of the university or institute
  2. The student’s first and last names
  3. The current date of the university card
  4. You have to be under 25 years old
 
student-discount-card

Book Online

$0.00

Starts 05:00
Ends 21:00
4 days

Adult rate per person:
375 USD

Student rate per person:
355 USD

Not sure? Contact us and we'll assist you.

Related Trekking

HOW TO BOOK

Choose Your Package

Select the package that best suits your travel plans.

Fill Out the Online Booking Form

Click on the “Book Online” button, choose your travel date, and complete the booking form.Important: Only one person should fill out the form for the entire group to ensure you're all booked together.

Make Your Payment

Secure your booking by paying online with any debit or credit card.Our system will charge 40% of the total amount in advance.

Send Passenger Information

After your payment is completed, our reservations team will contact you via email to request the following information for each passenger (please include a photo or scanned image of the passport): Full name, Passport number, Nationality, Date of birth, Gender, Phone number
Full Payment Method
You can pay the full tour amount upfront to avoid any future payment concerns. Ask for the total payment link.
Balance Payment
The remaining BALANCE is due 48 hours before the tour begins. You can pay in CASH (soles or dollars) or CREDIT CARD (+ 4 %) at the office in Cusco or in your hotel/hostal/apartament.
Travel Insurance
We strongly recommend purchasing travel insurance to protect your investment. Obtain insurance before departing and consider working with a reputable agency for affordable coverage.
Additional Enhacements
Huayna Picchu Mountain or Machu Picchu Mountain: 30 USD (subject to availability). → Check availability
Sleeping Bag Rental: 15 USD or the entire trek
Trekking Poles Rental: 10 USD one pair for the entire trek
Extra night: 20 USD per person based 2 people 40 USD single accommodation

STUDENT DISCOUNT

If your student card meets Peruvian government requirements, reserve the tour with a deposit and pay the remaining balance upon arrival in Cusco. The student discount will be applied at that time.

All university cards must be laminated and clearly show the following information:

1

University Name

2

University Logo

3

Student full name and photo

4

Date of currently valid student card

5

You have to be under 25 years old

SALKANTAY PACKING LIST

The essencial packing list for trek

Learn more

SALKANTAY WEATER

The essencial guide to the climate

Learn more

WHAT TO PACK

Get your backpack ready with the following recommendations!

  • Hiking boots or shoes

  • Hiking socks (wool or synthetic)

  • Long pants (hiking pants or leggings)

  • T-shirts or breathable shirts

  • Fleece jacket or sweater

  • Waterproof jacket or rain poncho

  • Swimwear (for hot springs or swimming)

  • Sandals / Flip flops

  • Headlamp or flashlight (with extra batteries)

  • Sunglasses

  • Sun hat or cap

  • Water bottle or hydration system (at least 1.5 liters capacity)

  • Personal medication (if necessary)

  • Personal toiletries (toothbrush, toothpaste, soap, etc.)

FREQUENT QUESTIONS ABOUT SALKANTAY TREK

We help you solve any doubts you may have!

The Salkantay trek is an alternative route to the Inca Trail to reach Machu Picchu. It is a multi-day hike that goes through stunning landscapes, including snow-capped mountains, high-altitude passes, cloud forests, and Inca ruins.

The Salkantay trek is considered a moderate to challenging trek. It involves hiking at high altitudes, with the highest point being Salkantay Pass at 4,630 meters (15,190 feet) above sea level. However, the trek is suitable for anyone with a reasonable level of fitness and previous hiking experience.

The Salkantay trek typically takes 4 to 5 days to complete. Some tour operators offer longer or shorter itineraries, depending on your preferences and fitness level.

You should pack comfortable and waterproof hiking gear, including sturdy hiking boots, a backpack, warm clothes, rain gear, a hat, sunscreen, and insect repellent. It’s also essential to bring a sleeping bag, a water bottle, and snacks or energy bars.

While you don’t need to be an experienced hiker, it’s important to have a reasonable level of fitness to complete the Salkantay trek. You’ll be hiking for several hours each day, often at high altitudes, so it’s a good idea to prepare your body with cardio and strength training before your trip.

While it’s possible to do the Salkantay trek independently, it’s recommended to hire a guide for safety reasons and to learn more about the history and culture of the area. Most tour operators offer guided tours, which also include transportation, meals, and accommodation.

The best time to do the Salkantay trek is from April to October, which is the dry season in the region. During these months, you can expect clear skies, warm days, and cool nights. However, it’s also possible to do the trek during the wet season (November to March), although the trails can be muddy and slippery, and you may encounter more rain and clouds.

Real Reviews (Happy Tourist)

It’s easy to fabricate written reviews or create fake ones on platforms like TripAdvisor, but we believe the best proof comes from video testimonials. Videos capture real experiences, showing genuine reactions from our travelers. That’s why we encourage you to check out our video reviews to see firsthand the authentic experiences our customers have had with us. Trust real stories from real people, not just words on a screen. You can also visit our social media channels to watch all our video testimonials and get an even better sense of the quality of our service.

Video reviews

More testimonials, visit our social media channels.
Facebook-f Instagram Youtube Tiktok
MACHU PICCHU RESERVATIONS

100% Local Tour Operator to Machu Picchu Trekking and Bus Cusco Hidroelectrica Company 100% Local We are NOT intermediaries.

MAIN CATEGORIES
CONTACT US

Click Google Maps

Coffee Snack Abra Malaga

A magical break at Abra Malaga

Discover the Experience of Quillabamba Coffee at Café Snack Abra Málaga, an unforgettable 15-minute stop on the Cusco – Hidroelectrica route. Enjoy organic jungle coffee, handcrafted chocolate, and a unique view of the Andes. Part of the exclusive Machu Picchu by Car VIP experience and without a doubt, a 100% Instagram-worthy spot

Open chat
Powered by Joinchat
Hello 👋
Can we help you?