For travelers prioritizing efficiency and a complete Salkantay experience within a condensed timeframe, the four-day Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu presents an optimal choice.
This carefully designed itinerary provides a balanced combination of physical challenge, scenic beauty, and cultural immersion, allowing participants to fully engage with the impressive Andean landscapes, including snow-covered glaciers and verdant valleys, characteristic of the Salkantay region (approximately 15,000 feet / 4,572 meters above sea level). This entire experience is structured across four days filled with activity.
The journey commences with an initial visit to the visually striking Humantay Lagoon (approximately 13,500 feet / 4,115 meters above sea level) on the first day. Following this, the day concludes with a night spent at the privately operated Quiswarniyoc campsite, offering an immersive natural setting. The second day involves the most physically demanding yet ultimately rewarding segment of the trek.
This includes an ascent to the Salkantay Pass (approximately 15,419 feet / 4,700 meters above sea level), which offers panoramic views. Subsequently, the route descends into the cloud forest, characterized by its dense vegetation, with the overnight stay occurring at the Chawllay campsite (approximately 9,514 feet / 2,900 meters above sea level). Day three progresses through the Santa Teresa Valley (approximately 5,000 feet / 1,524 meters above sea level), an area known for its tropical plant life and local agricultural activities. The culmination of this day is the arrival at Aguas Calientes (approximately 6,693 feet / 2,040 meters above sea level), which serves as the primary access point for Machu Picchu.
The fourth and final day features the central highlight of the trek: a guided exploration of the renowned Machu Picchu citadel (approximately 7,972 feet / 2,430 meters above sea level), recognized as one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. This specific route caters to individuals seeking a physically engaging trek that fosters a strong connection with both the natural environment and the historical legacy of the Inca civilization, all achieved in a shorter duration compared to the traditional five-day trek.
Machu Picchu Entry Ticket Options
The following are the available options for entry tickets to Machu Picchu each with a corresponding price of $40 USD unless otherwise noted and including photo and video opportunities.
Option 1: Llaqta Machupicchu / Circuit 2 – Classic Circuit / Route 2-A: Classic Design
This option provides access to the traditional viewpoint and includes a comprehensive tour of the Inca citadel itself.
Option 2: Llaqta Machupicchu / Circuit 2 – Classic Circuit / Route 2-B: Lower Terrace
Similar to the first option this route offers a slightly different path within the urban section of the Machu Picchu site.
Option 3: Llaqta Machupicchu / Circuit 1 – Panoramic / Route 1-B: Upper Terrace
This option covers the higher sections of Machu Picchu and includes the iconic viewpoint however it does not include access to the citadel area.
Option 4: Llaqta Machupicchu / Circuit 3 – Machupicchu Royalty / Route 3-B: Royalty Design
This option permits entry only to the lower section of Machu Picchu and does not provide access to the classic panoramic viewpoint.
Option 5: Llaqta Machupicchu / Circuit 1 – Route 1-A: Machu Picchu Mountain
This option includes the ascent to Machu Picchu Mountain offering expansive panoramic views of the surrounding area. It does not include access to the citadel itself. The price for this option is $60 USD which represents an additional $20 USD on top of the base Salkantay Trek price.
Option 6: Llaqta Machupicchu / Circuit 3 – Route 3-A: Waynapicchu Mountain
This option incorporates the hike to Waynapicchu Mountain and a brief visit to the lower portion of the citadel. The price for this option is $60 USD which is an additional $20 USD added to the standard Salkantay Trek price.
Early morning pickup in Cusco (approx. 11,152 ft / 3,400 m) travel to Mollepata for breakfast then Soraypampa to start hiking Hike up to Humantay Lagoon (approx. 13,780 ft / 4,200 m) enjoy the views then descend to Quiswarniyoc campsite (approx. 13,123 ft / 4,000 m) for lunch dinner and overnight stay in Mountain Sky Huts Moderate difficulty approx 10 km hiking focus on acclimatization.
Early start hike uphill to the highest point Salkantay Pass (approx. 15,419 ft / 4,700 m) After time at the pass descend towards Wayracmachay for lunch Continue descending through changing landscapes to Chawllay campsite (approx. 9,514 ft / 2,900 m) for dinner and overnight in Mountain Sky Huts Challenging difficulty approx 22 km hiking the most physically demanding day.
Hike from Chawllay through the Santa Teresa Valley (approx. 5,000 ft / 1,524 m) to Lucmabamba participate in a coffee tour have lunch Take a car from Lucmabamba to Hydroelectrica Hike alongside the railway tracks to Aguas Calientes town (approx. 6,693 ft / 2,040 m) Check into hotel for dinner and overnight stay Extended day approx 25 km hiking plus car travel.
Very early start hike or bus up to Machu Picchu citadel (approx. 7,972 ft / 2,430 m) Take a 2.5-hour guided tour followed by brief independent time Return via pre-booked option: either hike back to Hydroelectrica for a 6-hour car ride to Cusco (arriving late) or return to Aguas Calientes for a train to Ollantaytambo followed by a car transfer to Cusco (arriving earlier more flexibility) Final itinerary depends on Machu Picchu ticket availability.
The initial phase of the Salkantay trek to Machu Picchu commences in Cusco (approximately 11,152 feet / 3,400 meters above sea level) with scheduled hotel pickups occurring between 4:30 AM and 5:00 AM. During this period the designated guide will coordinate the assembly of all participants from their respective accommodations within Cusco. Following the complete assembly of the group the departure from Cusco is set for approximately 5:15 AM with the destination being the town of Mollepata (approximately 9,514 feet / 2,900 meters above sea level) a vehicular journey that typically spans around two hours. Upon arrival in Mollepata a substantial breakfast will be provided at a local establishment a meal that is included within the tour package. The duration of the stop in Mollepata generally extends to about one hour encompassing breakfast and any necessary last-minute procurement of supplies.
Following breakfast the journey continues via vehicle towards Soraypampa (approximately 12,795 feet / 3,900 meters above sea level) an additional hour of travel. Upon reaching Soraypampa the team of muleteers and their horses will be introduced marking the official commencement of the Salkantay trek on foot. Prior to initiating the hike all personal equipment and duffel bags will be transferred to the care of the muleteers and horses for transport. The trek from Soraypampa to Humantay Lagoon (approximately 13,780 feet / 4,200 meters above sea level) begins at an elevation of 3,900 meters and culminates at the lagoon situated at 4,200 meters. The initial segment of this hike involves a gradual incline lasting approximately one hour succeeded by a steeper ascent for the subsequent hour. The total duration of the hike to the lagoon is approximately two hours.
Upon arrival at Humantay Lagoon participants will have unallocated time to appreciate the impressive scenery capture photographs and listen to the guide’s informative commentary. The allocated time at the lagoon typically ranges from one to one and a half hours contingent upon prevailing weather conditions. After the visit to the lagoon the descent towards the Quiswarniyoc campsite (approximately 13,123 feet / 4,000 meters above sea level) begins. This portion of the trek includes a one-hour downhill walk followed by a nearly level trek of approximately 45 minutes.
Arrival at the Quiswarniyoc campsite usually occurs around 2:00 PM at which point a prepared lunch by the culinary team will be served. Following lunch the guide will direct participants to their designated sleeping accommodations for a period of rest. The afternoon after lunch is free from any scheduled hiking activities allowing for short exploratory walks within the expansive Quiswarniyoc area with views of the Salkantay Mountain which is prominently situated directly in front of the campsite. Around 6:00 PM a hot dinner will be served. After the evening meal important information regarding Day 02 of the trek which involves reaching the highest elevation of the entire route will be provided.
Summary for Day 01:
The day’s activities commence early at 5:00 AM with the serving of coca leaf tea known locally as “te despierto” by the kitchen personnel a practice intended to aid in altitude acclimatization. Following the wake-up call participants have approximately 30 minutes to prepare and organize their belongings for the day ahead. Breakfast is typically served at 5:30 AM. After the meal there is a brief interval for final checks of backpacks and utilization of restroom facilities before the commencement of the hike towards the highest point of the Salkantay trek.
The trek from Quiswarniyoc to the Salkantay Pass (approximately 15,419 feet / 4,700 meters above sea level) the highest point of the trek begins around 6:00 AM. The uphill ascent from the campsite to the pass generally takes between three to three and a half hours maintaining a consistent pace with scheduled extended breaks occurring every hour to allow for rest and energy replenishment. While the ascent is manageable with adequate prior acclimatization the primary challenge encountered is adapting to the high altitude conditions.
Upon reaching the summit of the Salkantay Pass participants will have allocated time to observe the impressive panoramic views photograph the surrounding mountain scenery and experience the proximity to Salkantay Mountain itself. The guide will often provide informative details about the area and may include a traditional local ritual to express gratitude to the Apus the mountain deities revered in local beliefs. The duration of the stay at the peak is typically between 30 to 45 minutes.
The descent begins with a two-hour trek from the Salkantay Pass to the designated lunch location at Wayracmachay (altitude not explicitly stated in the text). Here the kitchen team will be prepared with a nutritious lunch. Following lunch there will be a short period for rest provided weather conditions permit. The final segment of the day’s descent is from the lunch spot to the second campsite at Chawllay (approximately 9,514 feet / 2,900 meters above sea level). This descent which lasts between two and a half to three hours involves a moderately steep terrain but offers notable views as the landscape transitions from the high Andes to the characteristics of the Amazonian region.
Upon arrival at Chawllay the second campsite situated at 2900 meters the guide will direct participants to their overnight accommodations. The day concludes with a prepared dinner by the cooking team. This itinerary for Day 02 of the hike is structured to balance the demands of challenging ascents and descents with sufficient opportunities to appreciate the natural beauty and cultural significance inherent to the Salkantay region.
Summary for Day 02:
The day commences with an early wake-up tea served at 5:30 AM by the kitchen team followed by time allocated for packing personal belongings and preparing for the day’s activities. A substantial breakfast is served at 6:00 AM to provide energy for the trek ahead. The hike initiates at approximately 6:30 AM from Chawllay progressing towards the third campsite located in Lucmabamba (altitude not explicitly stated in the text). This five-hour journey primarily involves traversing relatively flat terrain through the Santa Teresa Valley (approximately 5,000 feet / 1,524 meters above sea level). Along the route participants can observe the rich biodiversity of the area culminating in an informative coffee tour in Lucmabamba.
In Lucmabamba participants will engage in a coffee tour hosted by a local family providing an opportunity to taste the distinctive Santa Teresa coffee and learn about the coffee production process unique to this specific region. Following the coffee tour participants will return to the campsite for a prepared lunch by the cooking team. After lunch the journey continues with a one and a half hour car ride from Lucmabamba to Hydroelectrica (altitude not explicitly stated in the text). Upon arrival at Hydroelectrica participants will prepare for the final three-hour trek to Aguas Calientes (approximately 6,693 feet / 2,040 meters above sea level). This scenic walk proceeds alongside the railway line utilizing a designated pedestrian path which facilitates a smoother journey.
Once in Aguas Calientes participants will check into their designated hotel allowing time for relaxation showering and unwinding before dinner. A dinner will be provided at 7:00 PM at a local restaurant in Aguas Calientes following which the final arrangements for the next day’s visit to Machu Picchu will be discussed.
Summary for Day 03:
The final day of the tour centers around a highly anticipated experience visiting Machu Picchu. The day begins with an early rise around 4:00 AM for breakfast at the hotel. Following breakfast the hike towards the Inca citadel of Machu Picchu (approximately 7,972 feet / 2,430 meters above sea level) commences around 4:30 AM. The trek from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu takes approximately one and a half hours involving a 30-minute flat trail followed by an hour’s ascent via historic stone steps leading directly to the main entrance of Machu Picchu.
Alternative Route: Bus to Machu Picchu
For those preferring a less physically demanding option an alternative is available to take a bus from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu. This option can be arranged the evening prior or on the morning of the visit. The initial bus departures from Aguas Calientes are at 5:30 AM with a cost of $12 per trip and a travel time of approximately 25 minutes.
Arrival and Entry Procedures
The objective is to arrive at the entrance gate of Machu Picchu by 6:00 AM whether by foot or by bus. At the main control point participants must present their valid Machu Picchu entry tickets and original passports. Individuals who booked with a student discount are also required to present their original student identification.
Machu Picchu Guided Tour
After passing through the entry controls the group will proceed to the upper section of Machu Picchu for opportunities to capture iconic photographs. Time will be allocated for taking pictures and appreciating the impressive views. Subsequently a knowledgeable Machu Picchu guide will lead a two and a half hour tour throughout the Inca citadel providing insights into the history and significance that establish Machu Picchu as a global wonder.
Independent Exploration Time
Following the guided tour of Machu Picchu participants will have approximately 30 minutes of unguided time to further explore the site independently within the designated circuit. It is important to note that the maximum permitted visiting time within Machu Picchu is three hours as per park regulations.
Post-Visit Itineraries
After the visit to Machu Picchu the return journey commences, however at this point individual group members will follow their pre-selected itineraries based on the options chosen during the initial booking process. Those who have secured tickets for the additional hikes to Waynapicchu Mountain or Machu Picchu Mountain will receive specific guidance from the tour guide regarding access to the entry points for these respective mountains. It is crucial to remember that these specialized tickets must be reserved in advance.
After Machu Picchu Return Options to Cusco
Important Note: Itinerary for the Last Day at Machu Picchu
The itinerary for the final day at Machu Picchu is contingent upon the availability of entry tickets for Machu Picchu. The proposed schedule is optimized for Machu Picchu tickets for Circuit 02 with entry times available at 6:00 AM 7:00 AM or 8:00 AM participants should verify availability at www.machupicchu.gob.pe.
In the event that tickets for Circuit 02 are unavailable for the 6:00 AM 7:00 AM or 8:00 AM entry times at the time of trek reservation the itinerary will necessitate adjustments. For alternative itinerary options in such scenarios particularly if morning entry times are fully booked or if Circuit 02 tickets are entirely sold out please refer to the following link Alternative Itinerary Options for Machu Picchu Visit. This resource will guide participants through the possible alternative arrangements ensuring a fulfilling experience at Machu Picchu despite any changes in schedule or circuit availability.
You know getting up at 4 am on the last day is tough but “first things first” you want to get to Machu Picchu before the crowds. Taking the bus up is an option but honestly hiking those steps “you bet” gives you a real sense of accomplishment. Once you’re inside the citadel the guide will walk you through everything “no sweat” just follow along and take it all in. After the tour you’ll have some time to wander around on your own so “take it easy” and enjoy the moment. Then it’s time to head back to Cusco and “wrap things up” after an incredible trek.
Essentials:
For Your Duffle Bag (7 kg limit):
Inside Your Daypack:
Notes: Waterproofing is crucial wear comfortable broken-in footwear and organize your belongings.
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