Salkantay Trek 4 Days to Machu Picchu
Salkantay Trek 4 Days to Machu Picchu
Ready to take on the Salkantay Trek? Get all the insider information with this four-day itinerary. Hike through stunning scenery and take home unforgettable memories!
4 Day Salkantay Trek with Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu
Salkantay Trek 4 Days to Machu Picchu: This adventurous trek crosses some of the most dramatic mountain landscapes in Peru, connecting high-altitude Andean valleys, glacier scenery, cloud forests, and ancient pathways leading to Machu Picchu.
Unlike the traditional Inca Trail, the Salkantay Trek offers a more remote and diverse trekking experience through varied ecosystems and less-crowded routes. Along the journey, hikers pass beneath the towering Salkantay Mountain, explore scenic valleys, and gradually descend toward the cloud forests near Machu Picchu.
This itinerary combines physical challenge, spectacular scenery, and cultural exploration into one of Peru’s most rewarding trekking adventures.
Are you looking for an unforgettable adventure? Our 4-Day Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu lets you explore the beautiful Andes Mountains. You will also discover the ancient ruins of Machu Picchu.
Overview
What to Expect on the 4-Day Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu
The 4 Day Salkantay Trek is designed for travelers seeking a more adventurous high-altitude hiking route. The trek crosses high mountain passes, glacier valleys, cloud forests, and remote Andean landscapes before reaching the Historic Sanctuary of Machu Picchu.
From glacier valleys and high mountain passes to cloud forests near Machu Picchu, the scenery changes dramatically throughout the trek, creating one of the most diverse hiking experiences in Peru.
One of the most unique aspects of this trek is the transition from the remote Salkantay mountain circuit into the original pathways of the Short Inca Trail, creating a much more diverse trekking experience than traditional Salkantay routes.
Highlights of the Salkantay Trek with Short Inca Trail
- Hike beneath the snow-capped Salkantay Mountain at 6,271 meters.
- Cross the spectacular Salkantay Pass surrounded by glacier scenery.
- Explore diverse ecosystems ranging from alpine valleys to cloud forests.
- Visit the archaeological site of Llactapata with distant views of Machu Picchu.
- Hike part of the Short Inca Trail and enter Machu Picchu through the Sun Gate.
- Relax in the natural hot springs of Cocalmayo after the mountain trek.
Quick 4-Day Itinerary Overview
- DAY 1: Cusco – Salkantay Trail – Cocalmayo Hot Springs
- Horseback riding experience from Soraypampa to the Salkantay Pass
- Trek from Salkantay Pass to Challway
- Enjoy the thermal baths of Cocalmayo.
- DAY 2: Santa Teresa, Lucmabamba Trail and Aguas Calientes
- Hike the Inca Trail of Lucmabamba with a view of Machu Picchu.
- DAY 3: Aguas Calientes, KM 104, Inti Punku
- Hike the Short Inca Trail from Aguas Calientes
- DAY 4: Machu Picchu Tour: Return to Cusco
Why Choose the 4-Day Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu?
- Remote Alternative to the Inca Trail: The Salkantay route offers a more remote, less crowded trekking experience to Machu Picchu, crossing spectacular mountain scenery and diverse Andean landscapes.
- Diverse Trekking Environments: Hike through glacier valleys, high-altitude mountain passes, cloud forests, and lush green hills, with the scenery changing dramatically throughout the journey.
- Unique Adventure Experiences: This itinerary includes horseback riding toward the Salkantay Pass, relaxing in the hot springs of Cocalmayo, sections of the original Short Inca Trail, and the unforgettable arrival at Machu Picchu through the Sun Gate (Inti Punku).
Itinerary
4-Day Salkantay Trek Itinerary (Day by Day)
Here is the detailed itinerary for the 4-day Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu:
DAY 1
Cusco – Soraypampa – Salkantay Pass – Santa Teresa (Cocalmayo Hot Springs)
Your adventure begins with an early morning pick-up in Cusco (around 4:30 am). A scenic drive of about 3 hours takes you to Soraypampa (3,900 m), the trailhead nestled below the mighty Salkantay Mountain. At Soraypampa, you’ll meet your trek crew and horses.
Morning: Start trekking with a gentle warm-up walk, then take an unforgettable horseback ride from Soraypampa up to the Salkantay Pass (4,630 m)—the highest point of the trek. (If you prefer not to ride, you can hike this section, but the horse option helps conquer the steep ascent.)
As you ascend, the views only get better. Reaching the top of Salkantay Pass is exhilarating: you’re surrounded by towering snow-capped peaks, including Mt. Salkantay itself, and on a clear day, you might glimpse a beautiful turquoise glacial lake nestled below. Take time for photos and to savor the breathtaking Andean panorama.
Afternoon: From the pass, begin your descent into the cloud forest—the trail winds downhill into greener, warmer areas with stunning vistas of the Chaullay Valley. You’ll hike for several hours, observing how the ecosystem changes from high alpine terrain to lush forest.
By late afternoon, you reach Chaullay/Challway (around 2,900 m), a small village. A vehicle will meet the group here for a short transfer (about 1 hour) to Santa Teresa (1,575 m).
Before heading to your lodging, we take a well-deserved break at the Cocalmayo Hot Springs—natural thermal pools where you can soak in warm waters amid the jungle scenery. Relax your muscles and enjoy the moment!
In the evening, settle into a cozy guesthouse in Santa Teresa for the night. A hearty dinner will be provided at a local restaurant in Santa Teresa. You’ve completed a big day: from high mountains to hot springs—a great start to the trek.
DATA HIKE FROM SORAYPAMPA TO SANTA TERESA VIA SALKANTAY TOUR AND HIKE
- Pick-up time and departure for the trip: 04:30
- Travel time from Cusco to Soraypampa: 3 hours
- Arrival time in Soraypampa: 08:00; “adventure start”
ACTIVITIES
- The first light walk from the Soraypampa parking lot to the Soraypampa ranch is 30 minutes.
- Soraypampa elevation: 3,930 meters (12,893 feet).
- At 08:30, horse service for Horseback riding from Soraypampa to the Salkantay Pass
- Riding time: 2.5 hours
- Arrival time on horseback to the Salkantay Pass: approximately 11:30
- Salkantay Pass Elevation: 4,638 meters (15,213 feet).
- HIKE from Salkantay Pass to Challway
- Trekking time to Challway from Salkantay Pass: Around 5 hours, 13.7 km/8.5 miles
- Hike Type: Stony; walking shoes are recommended.
- Hiking Difficulty: Challenging
- Challway Elevation: 2,870 meters (9,414 feet).
- Local shuttle from Challway to Santa Teresa and Cocalmayo Hot Springs: 1 hour and 20 minutes
- Enjoy the thermal baths of Cocalmayo for an hour
- Overnight in Santa Teresa: 2-star local hotel
- Elevation of Santa Teresa: 1,575 meters (5,167 feet).
- Food:
- Box lunch
- Dinner.
Our Salkantay Trek 4-Day Adventure is one of the best in the Cusco region for walking through the Andes in the open air towards the valley of Machu Picchu.
Good walking shoes with ankle support are required for the Salkantay Trek 4 Days, as the terrain is rocky, muddy, and slippery.
We also recommend bringing a pair of hiking poles to maintain your balance on the hikes, as they help propel you forward and distribute the pressure off your legs while descending the mountains.
1BL, 1D
Challenging
13.7km (8.5 miles)
5 Hrs.
Salkantay Pass: 4,630m (15,190 ft)
Challway: 2,829m (9,281 ft)
Salkantay Pass: 4,630m (15,190 ft)
DAY 2
Santa Teresa – Lucmabamba – Llactapata – Aguas Calientes
Rise early for Day 2, which is packed with culture and scenery. After breakfast, a private transport takes you around 30–40 minutes to Lucmabamba (approx. 2,000 m), a small village known for its coffee farms.
Here, you begin your hike along the historic Lucmabamba Trail, part of an old Inca pathway.
Morning: Trek uphill through lush cloud forest and plantations of coffee, bananas, and avocados. The climb is challenging, but you’re rewarded with fantastic views as you gain altitude.
After a few hours, you reach the Llactapata Pass (~2,700 m) and visit the Llactapata ruins—a remote Inca archaeological site. From this vantage point, you get a rare and spectacular first glimpse of Machu Picchu across the valley!
Seeing the outline of Machu Picchu Mountain and the ruins at Llactapata are highlights for many trekkers. You’ll take a break here to rest and enjoy lunch with a view of Machu Picchu in the distance.
Afternoon: Continue the hike with a downhill descent from Llactapata to the Hidroeléctrica (Hydroelectric) Station. The downhill section takes a couple of hours through dense forest. Once at Hidroeléctrica (around 1,800 m), the most challenging part of the day is done.
From here, it’s a flat walk of about 2.5–3 hours along the train tracks (following the Urubamba River) to reach Aguas Calientes town, also known as Machu Picchu Pueblo (2,040 m). This is the town at the base of the Machu Picchu ruins.
Optional: If you’re too tired to walk from Hidroeléctrica, there is an option to take a short train ride to Aguas Calientes (not included in the standard package)—but most trekkers enjoy the walk as it offers great river views and a chance to spot tropical birds.
By late afternoon, you arrive in Aguas Calientes (Machupicchu Pueblo), where you’ll check into a comfortable hotel. In the evening, explore the town if you wish—Aguas Calientes has markets, cafes, and hot springs of its own—or rest up. Tomorrow is the big day at Machu Picchu!
DATA OF LUCMABAMBA TRAIL TO MACHU PICCHU TOWN
- Local transport service from Santa Teresa to Lucmabamba: At 05:30
- Travel time: 40 minutes
- Breakfast time in the community of Lucmabamba: 06:20
- 07:00, the start of the trek on the Inca Trail of Lucmabamba
- 3-hour hike from the community of Lucmabamba to the Lucmabamba Pass: Uphill
- 2 hours of walking from Lucmabamba Pass to Hidroeléctrica: Way down
- 2 hours and 40 minutes of walking from Hidroeléctrica to Aguas Calientes: Semi-flat path, following the train tracks
- 11:00, lunch with a panoramic view of Machu Picchu from Llactapata Inca ruins
- Walking distance: 22 km / 6.3 miles.
- Hiking Duration: 8 hours
- Difficulty: Moderate to Challenging
ELEVATIONS
- Lucmabamba Community: 2,017 meters (6,617 feet)
- Lucmabamba Pass: 2,814 meters (9,232 feet)
- Hydroelectric: 1,811 meters (5,941 feet)
- Aguas Calientes: 2,065 meters (6,774 feet)
Important to remember: We will encounter around 05 mosquito varieties, so we recommend bringing repellent.
1B, 1L.
Intense
22km (13.6 miles)
8 Hrs.
Lucmabamba Town: 2,017m (6,617 ft)
Hidroelectrica 1,811m (5,941 ft)
Lucmabamba Pass: 2,814m (9,232 ft)
DAY 3
Aguas Calientes – Short Inca Trail Hike – Sun Gate – Return to Aguas Calientes
Today combines the Salkantay route with a section of the famous Inca Trail for a truly special approach to Machu Picchu. Early in the morning, meet your guide and set out from your hotel by 5:30 am. You won’t be visiting Machu Picchu just yet—first, you’ll tackle the Short Inca Trail.
Morning: From Aguas Calientes, you hike to KM 104, which is the starting point of the 1-day Inca Trail (about an hour’s walk along the tracks if on foot). At KM 104, pass through the checkpoint (permits are included and organized in advance), then begin trekking on the classic Inca Trail route.
The Salkantay Short Inca Trail ascends steadily through the beautiful cloud forest of the Andes. After about 3 hours of uphill hiking, you’ll arrive at Wiñayhuayna, an impressive Inca ruin cascading down a hillside.
Explore the stone terraces and temples of Wiñayhuayna and catch your breath—from here, the trail evens out a bit.
Midday: Continue hiking for another hour or two until you reach Inti Punku, the Sun Gate (2,720 m). This is a monumental moment: as you pass through the Sun Gate, Machu Picchu suddenly comes into view right in front of you!
From this vantage point, you get a panoramic look over the entire Machu Picchu citadel—a memory that will last a lifetime. Take time to savor the sight and snap some photos of Machu Picchu and Huayna Picchu vistas. (Most 4-day Salkantay trekkers get to Sun Gate in the early afternoon of Day 3.)
After enjoying the view from Inti Punku, you will start descending towards the Machu Picchu ruins. Important: On this day, we do not yet do the full Machu Picchu tour. You’ll just hike down close to the ruins to catch the shuttle bus.
Afternoon: A bus will take you from the Machu Picchu entrance gate down to Aguas Calientes (a 20-minute winding drive). The rest of the afternoon and evening is free for you to relax in Aguas Calientes (Machupicchu Pueblo).
You might want to have an early dinner and get to bed on time—tomorrow morning you’ll visit Machu Picchu properly! (If you wish, you could visit the local hot springs in Aguas Calientes in the evening or do some souvenir shopping in the market.)
The last section of the hike to MACHU PICCHU PUEBLO
- Start time of the walk: 5:30 a.m.
- Walking kilometers: 16 km/9.9 miles | 07 hours
- 1st. Trek: From Machu Picchu Pueblo to KM 104 (Main Gate of the Short Inca Trail): 1.40 hours
- 2nd trek: KM 104 to Inti Punku, 5 hours, Machu Picchu Classic View
- Hiking Difficulty: Challenging–Moderate.
- Highest hiking place: Inti Punku, The Sun Gate: 2700 m/8540 ft
- Meals: Box lunch.
- Bus service from Machu Picchu to Aguas Calientes: 1 bus ticket
1BL
Demanding
16km (9.9 miles)
7 Hrs.
Machu Picchu Pueblo: 2,065m (6,774 ft)
KM 104: 2,000m (6,560 ft)
Inti Pinku: 2,720m (8,920 ft)
DAY 4
Machu Picchu Guided Tour – Return to Cusco
Highlight of the Trek! Today you finally explore Machu Picchu, one of the New Seven Wonders of the World.
You’ll rise early and take one of the first buses up to Machu Picchu (the ride from Aguas Calientes starts around 5:30 am).
After a 30-minute shuttle, you arrive at the Machu Picchu site by early morning. Enter the Inca citadel of Machupicchu during the designated time slot and meet your guide inside for a comprehensive 2–3-hour tour of the Machu Picchu ruins.
During the guided tour, walk among the mystical stone structures and learn about the fascinating history of the Incas. Your guide will show you the Temple of the Sun, the Royal Tomb, the Intihuatana (Sun Dial), the Sacred Plaza, and many other key areas, explaining the significance of each.
You’ll also have opportunities to take iconic photos from the guardhouse viewpoint with Machu Picchu and Huayna Picchu mountain in the background. It’s a hike experience seeing the morning light spill over Machu Picchu as you explore the ruins—truly the pinnacle of the trek.
After the guided tour, since new regulations limit free time inside Machu Picchu, we will exit the citadel and head back to Aguas Calientes by bus. (If you wish to explore more or do a hike like Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain, those require separate permits and an extra day—let us know in advance.)
Afternoon: Back in Aguas Calientes, enjoy a relaxing lunch on your own before we catch the train. In the afternoon, you will board the train from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo.
This scenic train ride (about 1 hour and 45 minutes) winds along the Urubamba River, giving you one last look at the beautiful Andes mountains. Upon arriving at Ollantaytambo station, our driver will be waiting to transfer you back to Cusco by private vehicle (approximately 2 hours by car). Expect to come to Cusco in the evening (around 7-8 pm).
Congratulations, hikers—you have completed the 4-day Salkantay Trek to the Machu Picchu ruins! You will be dropped off at your hotel in Cusco, filled with unforgettable memories and a great sense of accomplishment.
(Note: The itinerary might be adjusted slightly due to train schedules, weather, or group pace, but we ensure you won’t miss any highlights.)
DESCRIPTION OF ACTIVITIES
Latest news: Now, the visiting hours of Machu Picchu have changed; 200 people enter Machu Picchu every hour to lighten the flow of visitors to the Inca citadel. We bought the entrance tickets to Machu Picchu when we reserved the 4 Day Salkantay Trek package.
You can enter Machu Picchu at 06:00, 07:00, or 08:00, according to availability.” Please get in touch with us before booking the tour package if visitors require an alternative schedule.
Thank you for choosing the Salkantay Trek 4 Days for your vacation. You have made one of the best decisions to trek through the Andes and the jungle of Peru on an outdoor camping expedition.
Trin Information
- Railway company: INCA RAIL
- Train Travel Route: MACHU PICCHU TO OLLANTAYTAMBO
- Class: The Voyager 44
- Train departure time from Machu Picchu Pueblo train station: 14:00
- Travelers must be inside the train facilities. At 14:00, otherwise, you will not be allowed to board the train.
- Arrival time at OLLANTAYTAMBO train station: 16:04
Easy
A short walk
2-Hrs Guided Tour
Machu Picchu Pueblo: 2,065m (6,774 ft)
Machu Picchu Ruins: 2,400m (7,874 ft)
Cusco: 3,350m (10,990 ft)
Inclusions
What’s Included in the 4-Day Salkantay Trek
Our Salkantay Trek 4 Days package is a fully guided tour that includes all the essentials for a worry-free experience. Included in the price:
- Professional Guide & Team: Experienced English-speaking guide for the entire trek (licensed tourism guide knowledgeable in Inca history and local culture). A support team, including drivers and horsemen as needed.
- Briefing: A pre-trek briefing meeting will be held in Cusco (usually the evening before departure) to go over the itinerary, meet your guide, and answer any last-minute questions.
- Transportation: Private transport from Cusco to Soraypampa (trek start point) on Day 1. Train ticket from Aguas Calientes back to Ollantaytambo (Expedition or Tourist Class train) on Day 4. Private Kondor Path vehicle transfer from Ollantaytambo train station to Cusco City on Day 4 after the train ride. All internal transfers as described (e.g., shuttle from Chaullay to Santa Teresa (local one), and bus from Machu Picchu down to Aguas Calientes, Machupicchu Pueblo on Day 3).
- Horseback Ride: A horseback riding service on Day 1 for the ascent from Soraypampa to Salkantay Pass (including a horse for each trekker who wants to ride, plus the muleteer). This makes the most challenging part of the hike easier and is a notable inclusion by Kondor Path Tours. (If you prefer to hike, that’s fine too!)
- Entry Fees and Permits: All necessary entrance tickets are included. This covers your Machu Picchu entrance fee, the permit for the Short Inca Trail (KM 104) on Day 3, the Salkantay route access fee, and entrance to the Cocalmayo Hot Springs in Santa Teresa. Kondor Path Tours handles all the permit arrangements for the Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu in advance.
- Accommodation included: 1 night in Santa Teresa.
- Accommodation in Aguas Calientes is not included unless specified in your selected option.
- Meals: Delicious meals to keep you fueled throughout the trek. Day 1: Lunch and Dinner. Day 2: Breakfast and Lunch. Day 3: Boxed Lunch on the trail. (We provide 1 breakfast, 3 lunches, and 1 dinner during the Salkantay hike.) Vegetarian and special diets can be catered to – please inform us in advance.)
- Water: Bring your water bottle filled (you can buy water in Cusco or along the way).
- Equipment: We provide a basic first aid kit and an emergency oxygen cylinder carried by the guide. Trekking poles can be rented from us if needed. (No camping gear is required on this trek since we stay in lodges, so no tents or inflatable mats are required.)
- Support for your luggage: Horses or porters will carry the heavy gear during the trek (like food and provided equipment). You will need to bring a daypack with water, a jacket, a camera, etc. (Any luggage you don’t need on the Salkantay trek can be stored safely in your hotel in Cusco.)
Taxes and Fees: All local taxes, credit card fees, and tourist taxes are included in the price. There are no hidden charges.
What’s Not Included
Flight tickets to Cusco; hotel nights in Cusco before/after the trek (Nights 2 and 3 in Aguas Calientes); trekking gear such as personal sleeping bags (not needed on this lodge-based trek, but if you want a sleeping bag or trekking poles you can rent them); travel insurance (highly recommended to cover any unforeseen events); meals not mentioned (e.g. dinner on Day 2 in Aguas Calientes, lunch on Day 4 after Machu Picchu tour); extra drinks and snacks; tips for guides and staff (optional, at your discretion).
What to Bring
Proper preparation and packing will ensure you have a safe and enjoyable Salkantay trek. Here’s a packing list of essential items to bring on the 4-day Salkantay Trek:
- Clothing: Comfortable trekking clothes for varied conditions. Layers are key! Pack moisture-wicking t-shirts, a warm fleece or down jacket (nights and early mornings are cold), hiking pants, and a waterproof jacket or rain poncho (weather can change quickly). Don’t forget warm Andes gloves, a hat, and a buff or scarf of alpaca wool for the cold at high altitudes.
- Hiking Footwear: Sturdy, broken-in hiking boots with good ankle support are a must (the trail is rocky and steep in places). Also, bring a pair of sandals or lightweight shoes for evenings and the hot springs of Cocalmayo.
- Sun Protection: The sun in the Andes is strong. Bring a sun hat or cap, sunglasses, and high SPF sunscreen (and lip balm with SPF) to protect yourself at high elevations.
- Backpack: A good daypack (around 20-30 liters) to carry your daily essentials: water, snacks, camera, jacket, etc. Make sure it’s comfortable. Use a rain cover or waterproof liner for your backpack, as rain can catch you off guard.
- Water and Snacks: Refillable water bottle or hydration bladder (at least 1-2 liters capacity). Bring your water bottle; water is available to purchase along the route.
- Trail snacks (energy bars, nuts, dried fruit) for quick energy boosts between meals.
- Swimsuit and Towel: Pack a swimsuit and small, quick-dry towel if you plan to enjoy the hot springs on Day 1. It’s a treat you won’t want to miss at the Cocalmayo!
- Personal Items: Personal toiletries (toothbrush, toothpaste, etc.) and toilet paper (just in case). Hand sanitizer and wet wipes are useful since showers are only available at lodges. Also, bring any personal medication (such as altitude pills or prescriptions) you need.
- Insect Repellent: For days 2 and 3 in the cloud forest and near Machu Picchu, consider a high-quality insect repellent to ward off mosquitoes and other insects.
- Headlamp/Flashlight: A small headlamp or flashlight with extra batteries. There might be early pre-dawn starts or dim lighting at lodges, so this is very handy.
- Trekking Poles: Trekking poles (walking sticks) are highly recommended, especially for the steep downhill sections. If you don’t have your own, you can rent them in Cusco. They help reduce the impact on your knees and improve balance.
- Camera/Phone: You’ll see some incredible sights, so bring a camera or smartphone to capture memories! Don’t forget chargers or spare batteries. A portable power bank is helpful since some places might have limited power outlets.
- Cash & Documents: Bring some cash (Peruvian soles) for small purchases or tips along the way (e.g., snacks, drinks, or tipping your guide/driver). There are no ATMs once you leave Cusco and during the 4-day Salkantay Trek. Tip: In Aguas Calientes (Machupicchu Pueblo), you will find ATMs. Also, pack your original passport—this is required to enter the Inca Trail after the Salkantay Trek and Machu Picchu (the name on the permit must match the name on your passport).
Tip: Pack everything in plastic bags or dry sacks inside your backpack to keep them dry. And remember, pack light—you’ll enjoy the trek more with less weight on your shoulders. Most people’s big luggage can stay at the hotel in Cusco; you should only carry essentials on the trek. Our team and horses will help transport communal gear and any extra bags as needed.
Optional Upgrades
Experience the thrill of hiking Salkantay Mountain with one of Peru’s most famous treks! The four-day trek is an adventure like no other.
Train Upgrades (PeruRail)
+$65. Vistadome train (MACHUPICCHU – OLLANTAYTAMBO)
+$498. Hiram Bingham train (Inbound Journey: Train MACHUPICCHU – POROY)
Additional Tickets (Huayna Picchu, Machu Picchu Mountain, Re-entry)
+$85 Huayna Picchu
+$85 Montaña
+$85 Re-entry to the Machu Picchu ruins
Salkantay 4 Day Trek Discounts
Machu Picchu Fee: College students: $25 off
Kondor Path Tours is a locally based trekking operator in Cusco specializing in Salkantay expeditions and alternative trekking routes to Machu Picchu.
Important Machu Picchu Entry Time Rules (2026)
- Due to the new rule, remember that starting January 1, 2026, you will need a ticket with a specific entry time. The times are 6:00, 7:00, 8:00, 9:00, 10:00, 11:00, 12:00, 13:00, and 14:00.
- Tickets can be used only once a day at the chosen time.
Salkantay Trek Combined with the Short Inca Trail Experience
Unlike traditional Salkantay routes, this itinerary connects the remote mountain landscapes of the Salkantay region with one of the most scenic sections of the original Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu.
The combination allows travelers to experience glacier valleys, cloud forests, original Inca stone pathways, and the unforgettable arrival at the Sun Gate (Inti Punku) in a single trekking expedition.
Explore More Short Inca Trail Combinations
FAQs
Frequently Asked Questions About the 4-Day Salkantay Trek
Below are some of the most common questions travelers ask before hiking the 4 Day Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu.
Yes. Unlike many traditional Salkantay routes, this itinerary includes a scenic section of the original Short Inca Trail, allowing hikers to reach Machu Picchu through the Sun Gate (Inti Punku).
There isn’t an age restriction, but if you’re older, you should get a medical checkup before traveling and try to acclimate to the altitude (see altitude sickness). We’ve frequently had people as young as seven and as old as 68.
The entry date to the Machu Picchu Citadel cannot be changed, but the departure date can. Tickets are purchased well in advance; if you change the hiking departure, your tour could become a 4- or 3-day tour, depending on the program book. Remember to schedule your trip to Peru in advance to avoid problems and stay in Cusco 3 or 4 days before the trip.
Please note that on this trip, you will meet people of different genders and nationalities than yours; we are an agency that cannot guarantee the gender and ethnicity of our tourists.
Our fantastic kitchen offers a wide selection of dishes in a variety of flavors.
Breakfast: This varies based on how complex the journey is. Oatmeal, eggs, pancakes, bread, and jam are typically among the available options. Hot beverages include hot chocolate, coffee, English tea, and herbal teas (such as chamomile, lemongrass, tea, or traditional coca).
At lunch and dinner, always start with a bowl of soup before moving on to the main dish (chicken, meat, fish, etc.), either with rice or pasta. Dessert and a final herbal beverage come next.
After the hike, refreshments (happy hour) will always be available, including hot beverages, popcorn, cookies, bread with jam, chocolate, Milo, and more.
Snacks: Before beginning the day’s hike, you will receive a piece of fruit, a chocolate bar, a packet of cookies, and some candy.
Options for vegetarian or unusual diets are available upon request.
Yes, we do serve vegetarian options. When making a reservation, kindly mention any dietary restrictions.
We offer boiled water for at least 5 minutes; water purification tablets are not required. As a result, on the first day, you only need one bottle of water for lunch. From there, you can refill your bottles before heading to Machu Picchu.
Since the average man today is exceptionally tall, only two people can fit in each of the four-person tents we use for our tours, giving them more room and comfort. Unless you specifically request a private tent (single tent, $25),
It’s up to you to decide how much to tip each travel companion based on how well they did their jobs.
To complete this journey, you must leave your belongings in the storage room in every hostel and hotel in Cusco, which stores travelers’ items.
Once the trip has begun, we have a low return rate. Our guides are well-trained, equipped with a first aid kit, and can use emergency oxygen.
Only two seasons are experienced in Cusco: a six-month rainy period and a six-month dry period. The dry season runs from April to October. Days are typically sunny and warm during this time. However, the weather can change rapidly in high-altitude towns, with rainy days and many unstable months from November to March, when heavy downpours are possible.
Note: The Cusco Valley is at 3400 meters. Temperatures change depending on altitude (higher altitude = colder, or vice versa).
The train included in all tours is the Express Service; schedules are based on available wagon space once the agencies make full payment. The first train departs at 18:20 hours, and the last at 22:50 hours. Salkantay Expeditions. Arrange transportation back to Cusco (by cab or bus).
Note: Trains are sometimes subject to change depending on the Peru Rail train operators. If desired, the train can be modified to improve service, with a corresponding price increase.
You must arrive in the city of Cusco, where you will need a guide to lead you on your Salkantay trek.
The Salkantay Trek is located in Cusco, about 60 km northwest of Cusco. The proximity of Salkantay to Machu Picchu makes trekking around it an alternative to the Inca Trail.
You should bring a set of trail accessories. As a backpack that will be your companion during the five days of the tour, carry the following:
- Light and warm clothes
- Hiking shoes.
- Hat
- Plastic poncho.
- Bathing suits for the hot springs
- Towel.
- Water bottle.
- Gloves for the cold.
- Walking sticks
- Flashlight.
- Binoculars.
- Personal toiletries
- Camera.
- Personal documents
- Insect repellent and sunblock
- Hand sanitizer.
- Toilet paper.
- Disposable tissues.
- Cash.
- Personal medications.
- Snacks.
- How many kilometers must you travel on a tour to reach Machu Picchu?
The Salkantay trek is approximately 72 kilometers, distributed over five days and four nights through beautiful Cusco, to reach Machu Picchu.
The five-day Salkantay trek is available for all adventurers traveling to Cusco in 2026.
This is a five-day trek. We will hike up and down trails for over 70 kilometers. The altitudes are similar to those in Cusco. Because of this, it is best to be prepared for the trek.
You don’t need to train hard, but doing cardio exercises can help. Try walking three times a week for at least three months before the tour.
Also, spending a couple of days acclimatizing to Cusco’s altitude before the tour will help us a lot.
To do the Salkantay Trek to Machupicchu, you should know that the level of trekking varies from moderate to complex. Therefore, it is recommended to be in good physical condition. It is also a good idea to wear good trekking shoes. Choose ones that fit your feet well. This will make walking easier and prevent problems.
The best time to do the Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu is from April to October. During this time, the weather is good with clear skies and less rain.
Mainly, the driest months are between June and August in the Andes. It is a good idea to plan what clothes to wear during these months. During the day, you can enjoy the sun. At night, it can get very cold.
The best seasons for the Salkantay trek are April and October, during Cusco’s dry season.
The number one reason we did the Salkantay trek was the environment you were in. You hiked for four days with very different backgrounds. On other trekking tours, the walk to Machu Picchu often remains the same, becoming monotonous. This is different from the Salkantay trek.
With each step, the landscape changes. The mountains reveal something new: rolling clouds, beautiful terrain, towering peaks, and friendly locals.
There is something magical about walking through the area along the Salkantay Trail. All you have to do is walk and enjoy. You have no stress, and there aren’t many things you need to think about during your hike. Just enjoy the walk. Great.
You can book the Inca Trail by contacting us via the website or by email at info@kondorpathtours.com. To make a reservation, please fill out the form. Provide your personal information, like your full name and date of birth.
Include your passport or ID card number as it appears on your document. Also, could you give us the exact date of the excursion? Otherwise, please send your inquiry to our email address, info@kondorpathtours.com.
Salkantay trek. It is not recommended because the conditions are not the best. The Salkantay Majestic hike is open to all hikers. However, it is best to go with certified expert guides who know the trail.
No. We refer to security in terms of being robbed, assaulted, or similar during the route. We heard before doing this route that it could be, but it is false. The most significant danger you face is the altitude, so I recommend you look at this altitude sickness guide.
No, the route is marked, and the professional team you will travel with will ensure there are no incidents.
Yes and no. Acclimatized and in relatively good shape, I can do the Salkantay trek. It is a route many people take, which suggests it is about something other than climbing the Himalayas. Still, it would be best to be realistic with your physical condition and, above all, with your acclimatization level.
Yes, we recommend spending at least two or three days in Cusco. Drink plenty of water (even if it annoys us; beer is not water). Get enough rest and take walks to check your progress. If your body reacts normally at altitudes above 3500 meters, you are ready for the adventure.
Salkantay Trek 4 Days New Map
Rates & Options
4-Day Salkantay Trek Price
Season 2026
The 4 Day Salkantay Trek combines high-altitude hiking, glacier scenery, cloud forests, and original Inca pathways into one of the most rewarding trekking experiences in the Peruvian Andes.
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| Persons | Price (p/p) | |
| 1 | $ 1 295.00 USD | |
| 2 | $ 863.00 USD | |
| 3 | $ 735.00 USD | |
| 4 | $ 645.00 USD | |
| 5 | $ 604.00 USD | |
| 6 | $ 565.00 USD | |
| 7 | $ 549.00 USD | |
| 8 | $ 426.00 USD | |
| 9 | $ 427.00 USD | |
| 10 | $ 511.00 USD |
Plan Your Trip
Plan Your Salkantay Trek Adventure
Our team in Cusco will help organize every part of your Salkantay Trek experience, including permits, transportation, guided services, and logistics for your trip to Machu Picchu. Early reservations are recommended, especially during the dry season between April and October.
This trekking route is ideal for travelers looking for a more remote and adventurous alternative to the traditional Inca Trail.
Photo Gallery of Salkantay Trek 4 Days
Explore the landscapes, mountain scenery, and trekking environments of the 4 Day Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu.
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