Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu - 4D/3N
Expedition Overview
For those short on time but hungry for adventure, the Salkantay Trek 4-Day express is the perfect challenge. You will experience the stunning turquoise waters of Humantay Lake, conquer the formidable Salkantay Pass at 4,630m, and witness the drastic transition from glacial peaks to lush, tropical cloud forests—all in just four days. This fast-paced itinerary condenses the beauty of the classic route, culminating with an unforgettable sunrise tour at Machu Picchu.
Day by Day Itinerary
Day 1: Cusco – Challacancha – Soraypampa – Humantay Lake
We pick you up early from your hotel and drive to the trailhead at Challacancha. We begin with a gentle hike to our first campsite at Soraypampa, where we enjoy a freshly prepared lunch. In the afternoon, we hike up to the stunning Humantay Lake (4,200m). Nestled below the Humantay glacier, its turquoise waters are a perfect reward and excellent acclimatization. We return to camp for our first dinner surrounded by towering snow-capped mountains. • Trekking Distance: 12 km / 7.5 miles • Estimated Time: 6 hours • Starting Altitude: 3,800m / 12,467ft • Campsite Altitude: 3,900m / 12,795ft
Day 2: Soraypampa – Salkantay Pass – Wayracmachay – Chaullay
Today is the most demanding day of the trek. After an early breakfast, we begin a steep ascent to the Salkantay Pass (4,630m), the highest point of our journey. From the pass, we'll have incredible, up-close views of the imposing Apu Salkantay (6,271m). We then begin our descent to Wayracmachay for lunch, before continuing down into the lush tropical cloud forest. Notice the dramatic change in climate and vegetation before we arrive at our campsite in Chaullay. • Trekking Distance: 22 km / 13.7 miles • Estimated Time: 9-10 hours • Highest Altitude: 4,630m / 15,190ft • Campsite Altitude: 2,900m / 9,514ft
Day 3: Chaullay – Lucmabamba – Hidroeléctrica – Aguas Calientes
We hike through the beautiful Santa Teresa valley, passing waterfalls, wild orchids, and coffee plantations. We will take local transport from the Lucmabamba area to Hidroeléctrica, where we enjoy our final lunch with the chef. We then embark on a flat, 3-hour walk along the train tracks through dense jungle until we reach the town of Aguas Calientes. We check into our comfortable hotel, have dinner at a local restaurant, and rest before the grand finale. • Trekking Distance: 15 km / 9.3 miles (plus short local transport) • Estimated Time: 6-7 hours • Highest Altitude: 2,900m / 9,514ft • Aguas Calientes Altitude: 2,040m / 6,692ft
Day 4: Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu – Cusco
We wake up very early to take one of the first buses up to Machu Picchu, arriving just in time to witness the sunrise over the ancient citadel. You will receive a 2-hour guided tour exploring the most important temples, palaces, and farming terraces. Afterwards, enjoy free time to explore the ruins independently. In the afternoon, you will return to Aguas Calientes by bus, take the scenic train to Ollantaytambo, and finally, ride in our private transport back to your hotel in Cusco. • Trekking Distance: Exploration of Machu Picchu • Estimated Time: 2-3 hours guided tour • Machu Picchu Altitude: 2,400m / 7,874ft • Return to Cusco: Evening
Guaranteed departure dates, official DIRCETUR entrance permits, and zero intermediary commission fees when you reserve directly with our Cusco headquarters.
✅ What is Included
- ✓Briefing before departure at your hotel
- ✓Private transport from Cusco to Challacancha (trailhead)
- ✓Professional English/Spanish speaking mountain guides
- ✓Private Gourmet Chef & Assistant Cook
- ✓Horses and mules to carry all food and camping gear
- ✓Duffle bag for your personal belongings (up to 7kg carried by mules)
- ✓Premium Eureka/North Face 4-season tents
- ✓Thick foam mattress & inflatable pillows
- ✓All meals (3 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 3 dinners) - catering to dietary needs
- ✓Boiled water for drinking along the trail
- ✓Machu Picchu Entrance Ticket
- ✓Bus tickets from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu (round trip)
- ✓One night hotel accommodation in Aguas Calientes
- ✓Panoramic train (Vistadome or Expedition) back to Ollantaytambo
- ✓Private transfer from train station to your hotel in Cusco
✕ Not Included
- —Sleeping bags (can be rented)
- —Trekking poles (can be rented)
- —First day breakfast and last day lunch
- —Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain tickets (must be booked in advance)
- —Entrance fee for the hot springs in Santa Teresa
- —Tips for the trekking team (optional but customary)
- —Travel insurance
Need Custom Itineraries or Private Dates?
Speak instantly with our experienced mountaineering coordinators in Cusco for immediate itinerary customization and permit verification.