Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu 3 Days
- 3 Day
- Challenging
- 4.99 (500 + reviews)
tour highlights
Humantay Lake
Salkantay Pass
Cloud Forest
Santa Teresa
Machu Picchu
3-Day Trek
Salkantay Trek 3 Days / 2 Nights to Machu Picchu – Overview
Experience an unforgettable Salkantay Trek 3 Days / 2 Nights to Machu Picchu, a challenging adventure through some of the most spectacular landscapes in the Peruvian Andes. This shorter version of the classic Salkantay route is ideal for travelers who want to experience the highlights of the trek while combining high-altitude mountains, tropical valleys, and the ancient Inca citadel of Machu Picchu.
During the journey, you’ll travel from Cusco to Soraypampa, admire the breathtaking Humantay Lake, cross the impressive Salkantay Pass at approximately 4,630 m (15,190 ft), and descend through the cloud forest toward Chaullay, Santa Teresa, and Hydroelectric Station.
The adventure continues with a scenic walk along the railway tracks to Aguas Calientes, the gateway to Machu Picchu. On the final day, you’ll enjoy a guided tour of Machu Picchu, discovering its most important temples, plazas, and archaeological sectors before returning to Cusco by train and tourist transportation.
The 3-Day Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu offers an excellent combination of adventure, breathtaking scenery, Andean culture, and Inca history in a shorter itinerary.
Duration
3 Days / 2 NightsDifficulty
ChallengingStarting Point
Cusco HotelAltitude
4,630 m / 15,190 ft (Salkantay Pass)Group Size
Small GroupsLanguage
English & SpanishTransportation
Tourist Transportation IncludedGuide
Professional Trekking GuideSalkantay Trek 3 Days / 2 Nights – Itinerary
Day 1: Cusco – Mollepata – Soraypampa – Salkantay Pass – Chaullay
Your Salkantay Trek 3 Days to Machu Picchu begins early in the morning with hotel pickup in Cusco between 4:30 AM and 5:00 AM. Travel by tourist transportation toward Mollepata, where you'll stop for breakfast and complete the necessary entrance arrangements.
Mollepata – Breakfast
After leaving Cusco, arrive in Mollepata for breakfast. Enjoy the surrounding Andean landscapes before continuing toward Soraypampa, the starting point of the trek.
Soraypampa – Salkantay Pass
From Soraypampa at 3,900 m / 12,795 ft, begin the challenging ascent toward the impressive Salkantay Pass at 4,630 m / 15,190 ft, the highest point of the trek. Enjoy spectacular panoramic views of Salkantay Mountain and the surrounding snow-capped peaks.
Salkantay Pass – Wayracpunku – Chaullay
After spending time at the pass, begin the descent through Wayracpunku toward Chaullay at approximately 2,900 m / 9,514 ft. As you descend, the landscape gradually changes from high-altitude mountains to greener and warmer valleys.
Arrive at Chaullay at approximately 6:30 PM, where you'll enjoy dinner and spend the night at the campsite.
Day 2: Chaullay – Collpapampa – La Playa – Santa Teresa – Hydroelectric – Aguas Calientes
Start the second day around 6:00 AM with breakfast before continuing your descent through the lush high jungle and cloud forest toward Aguas Calientes.
Chaullay – Collpapampa
As you leave Chaullay, the landscape becomes increasingly green and tropical. Along the route, you'll have opportunities to observe local flora, fruit plantations, coffee farms, and the diverse vegetation of the region.
La Playa – Santa Teresa
Continue toward La Playa and Santa Teresa, an area known for its coffee plantations and tropical fruit production. Enjoy the changing scenery as the high Andes transition into the warmer cloud forest.
Santa Teresa – Hydroelectric Station
From Santa Teresa, take tourist transportation toward the Hydroelectric Station, where you'll stop for lunch before beginning the final hike of the day.
Hydroelectric Station – Aguas Calientes
After lunch, begin the approximately 3-hour hike along the railway tracks following the Urubamba River Valley. This scenic route leads to Aguas Calientes at 2,040 m / 6,693 ft, the town located at the base of Machu Picchu.
Upon arrival, check into your accommodation and rest before the following day's visit to Machu Picchu.
Day 3: Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu – Ollantaytambo – Cusco
The most anticipated day of your Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu has arrived. Visit the legendary Machu Picchu Citadel with your professional guide before beginning your return journey to Cusco.
Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu
Start your morning around 4:00 AM if you choose to hike from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu. The hike takes approximately 1.5 hours. Alternatively, you can take the shuttle bus from Aguas Calientes, with the first services beginning early in the morning.
Guided Tour of Machu Picchu
Once you arrive at Machu Picchu at 2,430 m / 7,972 ft, enter the archaeological sanctuary according to the circuit and entrance time assigned to your ticket.
Your professional guide will lead you through the ancient Inca citadel for approximately 2 hours, visiting important areas such as the Temple of the Sun, Intihuatana, Sacred Plaza, and Guardian's House while explaining the history, architecture, and cultural significance of Machu Picchu.
Free Time & Return to Aguas Calientes
After the guided tour, depending on your entrance ticket and availability, you may have additional time to explore or visit Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain with a previously reserved ticket.
After your visit, return to Aguas Calientes to have lunch and prepare for your return journey.
Train to Ollantaytambo – Return to Cusco
Board your scheduled train from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo. Upon arrival, our tourist transportation will be waiting to take you back to Cusco, with an estimated arrival at approximately 9:30 PM.
This marks the end of your unforgettable 3-Day Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu.
Inclusions
What's Included in the Salkantay Trek 3 Days
- Hotel pickup in Cusco.
- Tourist transportation from Cusco to Soraypampa.
- Professional English- and Spanish-speaking guide.
- Meals during the trek: 2 breakfasts, 2 lunches, and 2 dinners.
- 1 night of camping in Chaullay.
- 1 night accommodation in Aguas Calientes.
- Entrance ticket to Machu Picchu.
- Professional guided tour of Machu Picchu.
- Tourist transportation from Ollantaytambo to Cusco.
- Return train from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo.
What's Not Included
- Breakfast on the first day.
- Lunch and dinner on the final day.
- Entrance to Humantay Lake, if applicable to the selected itinerary.
- Bus ticket to and from Machu Picchu.
- Entrance ticket to Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain.
- Sleeping bag.
- Additional horse for personal luggage.
- Personal expenses and other services not mentioned in the itinerary.
Recommendations for the Salkantay Trek 3 Days
Recommendations
Prepare for your trekking adventure with these essential recommendations.
Acclimatize
Spend at least one day acclimatizing in Cusco before starting the trek.
Dress in Layers
Bring appropriate clothing for both cold and warm weather.
Trekking Boots
Wear comfortable and durable trekking boots with good grip.
Rain Protection
Carry a rain poncho or waterproof jacket for changing weather.
Sun Protection
Bring sunscreen, sunglasses, and insect repellent.
Headlamp
Carry a flashlight or headlamp with spare batteries.
Stay Hydrated
Carry a reusable water bottle and water purification tablets.
Cash & Snacks
Carry energy snacks and some cash in Peruvian soles.
Travel Documents
Bring your passport or valid identification document.
Extra Tickets
Reserve Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain tickets in advance.
Health Information
Inform your tour operator about any pre-existing medical conditions.
Responsible Travel
Respect the environment, local communities, and trekking regulations.
Frequently Asked Questions
The best time to do the 3-Day Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu is generally from May to October, during Peru's dry season. These months usually offer less rainfall, clearer mountain views, and better trail conditions. However, temperatures can be very cold at high elevations, especially near Salkantay Pass, so warm trekking clothing is essential.
We recommend spending at least 2 days acclimatizing in Cusco before beginning the trek. The route reaches approximately 4,630 m (15,190 ft) at Salkantay Pass, so allowing your body time to adjust to the altitude is important. Stay hydrated, walk at a comfortable pace, and follow your professional guide's recommendations throughout the trek.
The Salkantay Trek 3 Days is considered a challenging trekking adventure. The most demanding section is the ascent to Salkantay Pass at approximately 4,630 m (15,190 ft). The route includes long hiking days, steep ascents and descents, and significant changes in altitude and climate. Good physical fitness and proper acclimatization are strongly recommended.
The highest point of the 3-Day Salkantay Trek is Salkantay Pass, located at approximately 4,630 m (15,190 ft) above sea level. From the pass, you'll enjoy impressive panoramic views of Salkantay Mountain and the surrounding snow-capped peaks before beginning the descent toward the warmer valleys.
Weather conditions change considerably depending on altitude. Near Soraypampa and Salkantay Pass, temperatures can be very cold, while the lower sections toward Chaullay, Santa Teresa, and Aguas Calientes are warmer and more humid. We recommend wearing several layers so you can adapt to changing temperatures throughout the trek.
During the first night, you'll stay at Chaullay Camp. On the second night, you'll stay at a hotel in Aguas Calientes, the town located at the base of Machu Picchu. Accommodation may vary depending on the service selected, so we recommend confirming the exact accommodation details when booking.
Yes, depending on your Machu Picchu entrance ticket and availability. Huayna Picchu and Machu Picchu Mountain require additional tickets and must be reserved in advance. These hikes require additional physical effort, so consider your fitness level and the time available on your Machu Picchu visit.
We recommend bringing waterproof trekking boots, warm layers, thermal clothing, a rain jacket or poncho, sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat, insect repellent, a reusable water bottle, personal medications, and energy snacks. You should also bring your original passport, which is required for your Machu Picchu entrance and train services. A comfortable daypack is recommended for carrying your daily essentials.
The Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu can generally be operated throughout the year. However, weather conditions vary by season. The dry season from May to October usually offers better hiking conditions, while the rainy season can bring heavier rainfall, muddy trails, and reduced visibility.
Previous high-altitude trekking experience is helpful but is not strictly required. However, you should have a good level of physical fitness and be comfortable walking for several hours at altitude. Your professional trekking guide will accompany you throughout the route and help you maintain a safe and manageable pace.
$260 USD
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