Full Itinerary – Salkantay Trekking 4 days to Machu Picchu

Day 1: Cusco – Humantay Lake – Salka Glamp Campsite (16km, 8hrs)

Our journey begins with an early pickup from your hotel in Cusco at 4:30 a.m. We can pick you up from any hotel near the center of Cusco, then drive for 2 hours to Mollepata for breakfast in a local restaurant.

After breakfast, we continue for 1 more hour to Challacancha (3,600 meters / 11,811 feet), the trailhead. Our expert tour guides will give you time to prepare, warm up, and begin the epic Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu. The hike starts with a 3-hour walk to the famous Humantay Lake (4,200 m / 13,779 ft). Along the way, you will see various plants and animals, including Andean geese (the lovebirds) and vizcachas (which look like rabbits).

When you arrive at Humantay Lake, you can enjoy amazing views of Humantay Mountain and the turquoise lake, and explore the area. Next, descend to Soraypamapa, where our trekking chef will have a freshly prepared picnic lunch made with local products.

After lunch, you will begin a 2-hour hike to our campsite at Salkantaypampa. You will spend the night in our unique and exclusive Salka-Glamp Campsite (3,900 m / 12,795 ft), where you’ll enjoy comfortable glamping tents, breathtaking mountain views of Salkantay, and the peace of the Andes. Relax with tea time and a delicious dinner, then step outside to admire the star-filled sky—an unforgettable way to end your first day on the trail.

• Hiking Distance: 16 km / 10 mi
• Duration: 7-8 hours
• Campsite Altitude: 3,900 m / 12,795 ft
• Highest Altitude: 4,200 m / 13,779 ft
• Meals: Breakfast, snacks, lunch, tea time, dinner
• Accommodation: Salka-Glamp Campsite
• Difficulty: Moderate

Day 2: Salka Glamp Campsite – Collpapampa (18km, 9hrs)

The second day of the Salkantay Trekking is the most challenging but also one of the most rewarding, offering breathtaking views from the Salkantay Pass. The morning begins with a surprise delivery of hot coffee or coca tea, brought right to your tent. As you step outside, you’ll be greeted with spectacular views of vast plains and snow-capped mountain peaks. After breakfast, we will begin a 2-hour ascent to the highest point of the trek, the Salkantay Pass (4,630 m / 15,190 ft).

We will spend some time at the summit to soak in the majestic landscapes, including a stunning lake at the foot of Salkantay Mountain. From here, we’ll continue with a 3-hour downhill hike to our lunch place in Wayracmachay (3,800 m / 12,467 ft).

Next, we’ll descend another 3 hours, leaving the highlands behind as we enter the cloud forest, experiencing one of the quickest changes in weather and temperature. We’ll arrive at Collpapampa (2,770 m / 9,087 ft), a small village surrounded by greenery and the gentle sounds of nature. Here, you’ll enjoy a night in comfortable Andean huts, offering a warm and authentic experience. Rest well in these charming accommodations and savor a peaceful evening surrounded by the tranquil beauty of the cloud forest.

• Hiking Distance: 18 km / 11.2 mi
• Duration: 9 hours
• Campsite Altitude: 2,770 m / 9,087 ft
• Highest Altitude: 4,630 m / 15,190 ft
• Meals: Breakfast, snacks, lunch, tea, and dinner
• Accommodation: Andean huts
• Difficulty: Challenging

Day 3: Collpapampa – Hydroelectric – Aguas Calientes (16km, 8hrs)

This is arguably the most beautiful day of your Salkantay Peru Trekkers! After a hearty breakfast, we will hike for about 3 hours to Lucmabamba (2,000 m / 6,600 ft) and prepare a unique Pachamanca barbecue. This traditional Peruvian recipe consists of burying vegetables, fruits, and all kinds of meat with hot stones. You will actively participate in preparing this special delicacy. After lunch, you will visit an organic coffee farm where you can learn about the coffee harvesting process and, why not, prepare your own espresso with the beans.

Later, we will drive for one hour to Hidroeléctrica and hike for 3 more hours to Aguas Calientes, our last toil of the day! By 5:00 p.m., you’ll arrive in Aguas Calientes, where you can unwind with dinner at a local restaurant and spend the night in a comfortable hotel, resting up for your grand finale at Machu Picchu the next day.

• Hiking Distance: 14 km / 8.6 mi
• Duration: 6 hours
• Campsite Altitude: 2,000 m / 6,561 ft
• Highest Altitude: 2,770 m  /9,087 ft
• Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
• Accommodation: Hotel in Aguas Calientes
• Difficulty: Moderate

Day 4: Machu Picchu, the Lost City of the Incas! (4 hrs)

Today we’re going to wake up bright and early as we get ready for the highlight of the Salkantay Trek—Machu Picchu. Around 5:30 a.m., we’ll head straight to the bus line to catch one of the first rides up to the citadel. As the sky begins to lighten, we’ll arrive at the entrance and make our way to the upper terraces, where breathtaking views of the ancient city await. If the weather is clear, you might even catch the sunrise.

Once on site, your guide will lead a 2 to 3-hour exploration through the main areas of Machu Picchu, including many insights about its history and significance. After the tour, and if you’ve booked in advance, you have the option to hike either Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain for extraordinary panoramic views.

In Machu Picchu, we include Circuit 2 by default, as it is the most comprehensive; however, if it is sold out, we will offer the best option available, which can be Circuit 3 or Circuit 1. We strongly suggest that all guests secure their Machu Picchu trip as early as possible, as tickets to Machu Picchu are sold on a first-come, first-served basis, and the best circuits and schedules sell out first.

When you’re ready, you’ll return to Aguas Calientes on your own for lunch (not included) and finally take the panoramic Vistadome train and bus ride back to Cusco. Upon arrival, the Peru Trekkers Team will be waiting at the station to transfer you to your hotel.

• Tour Duration: 2-3 hours in Machu Picchu
• Machu Picchu Altitude: 2,430 m / 7,972 ft
• Meals: Breakfast (hotel)
• Difficulty: Easy

Included

• Pre-departure briefing
• Hotel pickup and drop off
• All transportation during the tour
• Professional Tour Guide
• Return on the panoramic Vistadome Train or 360°
• Entry tickets to the Salkantay Trek and Machu Picchu
• Cargo mules to carry all the camping equipment
• Experienced chef to prepare meals
• 1 night at Salka Glamp Campsite for a luxurious experience under the stars (Day 1)
• 1 night at Andean huts in Collpapampa (Day 2)
• 1 night 3-star hotel in Aguas Calientes
• All meals on the trail, except the last day lunch (all dietary needs covered)
• Water and daily snacks
• Pachamanca barbecue, cooking class, coffee experience
• Duffle Bag for up to 8 kg (17 lb) for your stuff
• First-aid kit, satellite phones, oxygen supply
• Pillow, sleeping pad, rain poncho, hand towels

Not Included

• Sleeping bag, air mattress, trekking poles
• Last day lunch in Aguas Calientes
• Huayna Picchu Mountain or Machu Picchu Montaña

Packing List – Salkantay Trekking to Machu Picchu 4-Day

The 4-day Salkantay Trek is Peru’s second most popular route to Machu Picchu. You’ll hike from high-altitude plains into lush rainforest. Expect big changes in terrain and weather: sun, wind, cold, and rain, all in a single day. Be prepared for anything.

You won’t be able to bring all your belongings on the trail. Pack only what’s essential for the 4 days. The rest can stay in Cusco. We’ll provide a 7 kg (15 lb) duffel bag, where you must fit your sleeping bag and sleeping pad.

You’ll also carry a daypack with everything you need during the day.

Essentials

• Original passport: Required for Machu Picchu. Keep it safe and dry in a plastic bag or waterproof case.
• Student ID: Only if you booked with the student discount. Send it to booking@perutrekkers.com to confirm eligibility.
• Backpack: We recommend a 25-35 liter a maximum weight of around 5–8 kg, lightweight, for carrying all your essentials.
• Water container: Camelbak or bottles totaling 2 liters. Insulated ones help keep water cool.
  Hiking boots: Lightweight and waterproof. Break them in beforehand to avoid blisters.

What to pack in the daypack

• Plastic poncho: Provided by Peru Trekkers, but also bring a rain jacket and waterproof gloves.
• Sunscreen: High UV protection. Buy it in Cusco if needed.
• Toilet paper: Local restrooms may charge. Bring small coins and your own toilet paper.
• Insect repellent: After day 2, you’ll be in the jungle. Use repellent and long sleeves.
• 1 rain jacket, 1 warm jacket: The first 2 mornings are very cold. Layer up and adjust as you hike.
• Snacks: You’ll burn a lot of energy. Bring granola bars, chocolate, or candies.
• Water container: Carry enough for the morning. We’ll refill it after lunch daily.
• Flashlight or headlamp: Needed at campsites and restrooms. Headlamps keep hands free.
• Hat: Sunhat for the day, warm hat for the night. Also, pack gloves.
• Sunglasses: Essential for strong sun in high-altitude areas.
• Extra cash: ~600 soles (US$200) in small bills and coins. For toilets, snacks, tips, or emergencies.
• Personal medication: Band-aids, ibuprofen, Diamox, Imodium, Pepto, feminine products.
• Camera or phone: To capture every moment.

What to pack in the duffel bag

• Sleeping bag: Must resist down to -10°C. You can bring your own or rent it from us.
• Sandals: For relaxing at camp after hiking.
• Wool Hiking socks (5 pairs): Warm and comfortable for trekking.
• Light socks (4 pairs): To wear at camp after the hike.
• Underwear (5 pairs): Bring extra in case they get wet.
• Breathable hiking pants (2–3 pairs): Ideal for the trail; leggings also work well.
• Sports pants (1 pair): For evenings and cold mornings.
• T-shirts (5): Long-sleeved ones are better for the sun and bugs.
• Wet wipes, tissues, and a small towel
• Swimwear (optional): In case you visit the hot springs in Aguas Calientes.
• Trekking poles: You can bring your own or rent them from us.
• Sleeping pad: We provide foam pads, but you can bring or rent an air mattress for more comfort.

Salkantay Trekking 4 Days – FAQs

What is the Salkantay Trek?

The Salkantay Trekking is an incredible hiking route to Machu Picchu. It’s a scenic and adventurous alternative to the Inca Trail, offering a journey through stunning mountains, valleys, and cloud forests. The trek typically takes 4 or 5 days to complete.

Is the Salkantay Trekking worth it?

Absolutely! The Salkantay Trekking is one of the best ways to experience Peru’s diverse landscapes, from snow-capped mountains to lush cloud forests. It’s a challenging but rewarding adventure, and arriving at Machu Picchu at sunrise is an unforgettable moment.

How long is the Salkantay Trail?

Most hikers complete the Salkantay Trail in 4 or 5 days, depending on the itinerary. A 4-day trek is perfect for those with limited time, while the 5-day option offers a more relaxed pace and additional stops.

How hard is the Salkantay Trek?

The Salkantay Trek is considered a challenging hike, especially because of the altitude. If you’re not used to high elevations, you might feel some discomfort. We recommend staying in Cusco for at least 2 days before the trek to acclimate. This makes a big difference and helps you enjoy the trail more.

What is the highest point on the route?

The highest point is the Salkantay Pass, located at 4,630m (15,190 ft). For reference:

• First campsite: 3,900m (12,795 ft)
• Second campsite: 2,770m (9,087 ft)
• Last night in Aguas Calientes: 2,000m (6,561 ft)

Can I get altitude sickness?

Altitude sickness is common but manageable. Spend 2–3 days in Cusco before your trek to acclimate. Stay hydrated, eat light meals, and avoid overexertion. Consider bringing altitude sickness medication like Diamox and sipping coca tea to help with symptoms.

How cold does it get on the Trail?

Temperatures vary throughout the trek. Nights can drop below freezing at higher altitudes, especially at the Salkantay Pass. Daytime temperatures range from 18°C (64°F) in the mountains to 24°C (75°F) in the cloud forest. Packing layers is key for staying comfortable.

When is the best time to hike the Salkantay Trek?

The best time is from April to November during the dry season. April and November offer fewer crowds and pleasant weather. Avoid January and February due to heavy rain and potential landslides.

How can I prepare for the Salkantay Trek?

Moderate fitness is needed for the Salkantay Trekking to Machu Picchu. Regular hiking, jogging, or gym workouts a few weeks before the trip will help you build stamina. Staying active and acclimating to the altitude in Cusco for a couple of days before starting is highly recommended.

How much does the Salkantay Tour cost?

Prices for the Salkantay Tour 4 days range from USD 500 to USD 650. This typically includes accommodation, meals, professional guides, transportation, and entry to Machu Picchu. Choose a reputable tour operator to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.

Is camping equipment included?

Yes, all camping equipment is included, except for the sleeping bag and trekking poles, which you can rent from us. Everything is transported by cargo mules, so you’ll only need to carry your daypack with essentials during the hike.

Can I leave my luggage with Peru Trekkers?

Yes, we offer free luggage storage. You can safely leave your bags with us in Cusco while you’re on the trek and pick them up once you return. If you prefer, you can also store your luggage at your hotel.

Can I hike the trek without a guide?

Technically yes, but we don’t recommend it. The trail has remote and tricky sections, and having a guide makes everything easier—especially with timing, navigation, and safety. You’ll also need a certified guide to enter Machu Picchu, so it’s best to have one throughout the trek.

What circuit in Machu Picchu is included on this tour?

Our tour usually includes Circuit 2. If tickets for Circuit 2 are sold out, we’ll let you know and offer the next best option. Circuit 2 covers viewpoints and lets you walk through the center of Machu Picchu to see its most famous buildings.

Book early for the best chance to get Circuit 2.

Note: Each circuit follows a set route. Ticket availability changes with demand, and rules can change over time. We’ll confirm your circuit before the tour.