Salkantay Route. Explore one of the most breathtaking routes to Machu Picchu with this 3-day tour, ideal for travelers seeking a combination of adventure, nature, and Andean culture. During this journey, you’ll reach the imposing Salkantay Pass at 4,650 meters above sea level, from where you’ll enjoy spectacular views of glaciers, snow-capped mountains, and vibrant cloud forests.
With a total distance of 49 kilometers over three days, this moderately to challenging hike is perfect for those who want to push themselves physically while immersing themselves in unique landscapes. Accompanied by professional guides, you’ll enjoy a safe, enriching experience that connects you deeply with the natural majesty of the surroundings.
ITINERARY
3-Day Salkantay Trekking Tour Itinerary
😊Day 1: Cusco – Soraypampa – Collpapampa
- The tour begins with pickup from their hotels in the historic center of Cusco at 2:30 a.m. We will then embark on an approximately four-hour drive to reach Soraypampa (3,900 m above sea level / 12,795 ft), where breakfast will be served and the trek will begin.
- The ascent to the Salkantay Pass will take approximately four hours, reaching 4,650 m above sea level, from where you can enjoy a breathtaking view of the Salkantay mountain peak. Afterwards, we will begin a descent of approximately two hours to where lunch will be served. After a short rest, we will continue the hike with an additional three-hour descent through a stretch of highland rainforest to reach the Collpapampa camp, where dinner will be served and we will spend the night. The total distance traveled on this first day is approximately 22 km.
🟢Day 2: Collpapampa – Lucmabamba – Hidroeléctrica – Aguas Calientes
- The second day begins with a nutritious breakfast at 6:00 a.m., after which we will begin an approximately five-hour hike through the highland rainforest, with sections of ascent and descent. During this hike, we will cross a beautiful cloud forest, where we will be able to appreciate coffee plantations, orchids, and various medicinal plants typical of the warm climate of this region.
- After a lunch break in Lucmabamba, we will board a transport bound for Hidroeléctrica, from where we will begin an approximately three-hour hike to the town of Aguas Calientes. At the end of the day, we will enjoy a comforting dinner and check into a local hotel. The total distance traveled during this day is approximately 27 km.
😊Day 3: Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu – Cusco
- On the third day, very early in the morning, we will board the Consettur buses that will take us from Aguas Calientes to the entrance of Machu Picchu, a 30-minute ride. There, we will take an approximately two-hour guided tour of the majestic Inca citadel, exploring its temples, plazas, and terraces.
- At the end of the tour, we will return to Aguas Calientes for lunch (at the passenger’s own expense) and then take the train to Ollantaytambo, where a shuttle will take us back to Cusco, concluding the tour.
INCLUDES
Includes – 3-Day Salkantay Trekking Tour
Accommodation
- One night at a Collpapampa campsite
- One night at a basic hotel in Aguas Calientes
Meals
- 2 breakfasts
- 2 lunches
- 2 dinners. Vegetarian options
Transportation
- Pickup from your hotel in Cusco (located in the historic center of Cusco)
- Bilingual guides
- First aid kit and an extra oxygen bottle in case of emergencies.
- Entrance fee to Machu Picchu
- Duffel bags for your personal belongings (up to 5 kg per person).
DOES NOT INCLUDE
Not Included – 3-Day Salkantay Trekking Tour
- Breakfast on the first day
- Lunch and dinner on the last day
- Entrance fee to Huayna Picchu Mountain or Machu Picchu Mountain
- Entrance fee to Humantay Lake
- Transportation from Lucmabamba to Hydroelectric Power Station
- Return train ticket to Cusco
- Trekking poles
- Additional horseback riding for luggage exceeding the 5 kg limit per person.
- Consettur bus from Aguas Calientes to the Machu Picchu entrance gate
- Domestic or international flights
- Travel insurance
- Other activities not mentioned in this itinerary.
- Sleeping Bag
RECOMMENDATIONS
Recommendations – 3-Day Salkantay Trekking Tour
- Bring a 10-liter backpack for daily trekking
- Bring a waterproof or windproof jacket
- Bring thermal clothing (base layers)
- Long and short-sleeved polo shirts (breathable)
- Trekking pants (1 or 2)
- Thermal underwear
- Gloves and hat
- Scarf or buff for wind and cold
- Trekking socks (minimum 3 pairs)
- Water-resistant hiking shoes or boots
- Toiletries: Toothbrush and toothpaste
- Biodegradable soap
- Toilet paper
- Sunscreen
- Trekking poles (recommended)
- Reusable water bottle or canteen (minimum 1.5L)
- Water purification tablets or filter
- Rain poncho
- Sleeping bag (if not included)
- Cash (for snacks and (transport)
- Original passport
- Camera or cell phone with a good camera
- Portable charger (power bank)
- Energy snacks (nuts, bars, chocolates)
- Insect repellent
FAQs
Frequently Asked Questions about the 3-Day Salkantay Trekking Tour
1. How difficult is the Salkantay trek?
It is a moderate to demanding hike, ideal for people in good physical condition. The altitude and daily distance can be challenging, but it is manageable with preparation.
2. Do I need previous trekking experience?
It is not mandatory; good physical endurance is suggested.
3. What altitude does the tour reach?
The highest point is the Salkantay Pass (4,650 m above sea level). You may also sleep at over 3,800 m on some nights.
4. Can I suffer from altitude sickness?
Yes, it is possible. It is recommended to acclimatize in Cusco at least two days beforehand and bring altitude sickness pills.
5. Are there restrooms and showers along the way?
Yes, some campsites offer basic restrooms and cold or hot showers for a fee.
6. What type of accommodation is offered?
The tour combines nights in rustic camps and glass domes, depending on your choice, and the price varies. The last night is a hotel in Aguas Calientes.
7. What type of food is served?
Hot and nutritious meals, suitable for hikers. Vegetarian or vegan options can be requested in advance.
8. How do I return to Cusco from Machu Picchu?
You can return by train (not included) or take an additional hike to Hidroeléctrica and take road transportation (depending on the package chosen).
9. What is the best time to hike Salkantay?
Between April and October, during the dry season. Avoid the rainy months, which are very dangerous.
10. Can I hike alone or in a group?
Both options are available. Group tours are cheaper; private tours offer more flexibility.
11. Do I need to carry all my luggage on the hike?
No. Large luggage is transported by horses. You only carry a small backpack with your daily essentials.
12. Is there cell phone or internet service along the trail?
The service is very limited. Some campsites have paid Wi-Fi, but it is not guaranteed.
13. What is the weather like during the Salkantay trek?
During the Salkantay trek, the weather varies, from cold at high altitudes (down to -5°C at night in Soraypampa), temperate to warm at the edge of the jungle (15–28°C), and with the possibility of rain, especially during the wet season (November to March). Layered and waterproof clothing is recommended.
DEPARTURE DATES
Salkantay is one of the most popular destinations in Cusco, Peru. We currently offer daily tours to this impressive mountain.
PRICES
Adult: $380 per Adult
Student: $350 per Adult
