Experience the Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu in four days, following a route that begins in the high Andes and gradually descends toward the warmer landscapes of the cloud forest. Along the way, visit Humantay Lake, cross the Salkantay Pass and walk through changing mountain environments before reaching Aguas Calientes and Machu Picchu.
The trek begins with an early pickup from your hotel or Airbnb in Cusco at approximately 4:30 a.m. From there, travel toward Mollepata and Challacancha before beginning the hike to Soraypampa. During the following days, the route crosses high-altitude terrain near the Salkantay massif, descends through the cloud forest and continues toward Hidroeléctrica and Aguas Calientes.
The final day is dedicated to Machu Picchu, with a guided visit to the archaeological site before returning by train to Ollantaytambo and continuing by transport to Cusco.
A Four-Day Salkantay Trek Through the Andes to Machu Picchu
The Salkantay Trek 4 Days is designed for travelers who want to experience the famous Salkantay route but have limited time. Over four days, the journey connects high-Andean landscapes, Humantay Lake, the Salkantay Pass, cloud forest vegetation and the final visit to Machu Picchu.
The route begins near Challacancha and climbs toward Soraypampa, where the first overnight stop is located. From there, the trek reaches the highest point of the journey at approximately 4,650 meters above sea level before descending toward Colpapampa and the warmer environment of the lower valleys.
On the third day, the scenery changes noticeably as the trail enters the cloud forest, where coffee plantations, orchids and bromeliads can be seen along the route. The journey then continues through Hidroeléctrica to Aguas Calientes, followed by the visit to Machu Picchu on the fourth day.
Highlights of the Salkantay Trek 4 Days
- Visit the turquoise waters of Humantay Lake.
- Cross the Salkantay Pass at approximately 4,650 meters above sea level.
- See the snow-covered mountains of Salkantay, Humantay and Tucarhuay.
- Experience the transition from high-Andean landscapes to the cloud forest.
- Walk through areas with coffee plantations, orchids and bromeliads.
- Travel from Hidroeléctrica to Aguas Calientes on foot along the railway route.
- Finish the trek with a guided visit to Machu Picchu.
What makes this 4-day Salkantay route different?
This itinerary condenses the Salkantay experience into four days while preserving its principal landscapes and destinations. The route includes Humantay Lake, the high mountain pass, the descent toward Colpapampa, the cloud forest and the approach to Machu Picchu through Aguas Calientes.
From the high Andes to the cloud forest
One of the most distinctive parts of the Salkantay Trek is the dramatic change in scenery. The journey begins among cold mountain landscapes and snow-covered peaks before descending toward greener valleys, warmer temperatures and tropical vegetation on the way to Machu Picchu.
Salkantay Trek 4 Days to Machu Picchu Itinerary
Day 1: Cusco – Challacancha – Soraypampa – Humantay Lake
Your journey begins with pickup from your hotel or Airbnb in Cusco at approximately 4:30 a.m. Travel by bus for around three hours toward Mollepata, located at approximately 2,900 meters above sea level.
After the stop in this area, continue by bus for approximately one more hour toward Challacancha at about 3,380 meters, where the trek begins. The local entrance or access fee required on this part of the route is not included and must be paid separately.
From Challacancha, hike for approximately three hours to Soraypampa at about 3,900 meters above sea level. This is the location of the first camp. After arriving, enjoy lunch and take some time to rest before the afternoon hike.
Later, begin the ascent toward Humantay Lake. The uphill section takes approximately one hour and thirty minutes. After reaching the lake, enjoy time for photographs and the surrounding mountain scenery before beginning the descent, which takes approximately fifty minutes.
Return to the accommodation area in Soraypampa for dinner and the first overnight stay.
Day 2: Soraypampa – Salkantay Pass – Colpapampa
The day begins at approximately 5:00 a.m. with breakfast before leaving the camp in Soraypampa.
Begin the climb toward the highest point of the trek, the Salkantay Pass. The ascent takes approximately three hours and reaches around 4,650 meters above sea level. Along the route, pass through Salkantaypampa and Soyrococha while enjoying views of the Salkantay, Humantay and Tucarhuay mountains.
After spending time at the high pass, begin the descent toward Huayracmachay, located at approximately 3,800 meters above sea level. This section takes around three hours, and lunch is served after reaching the area.
Continue descending for approximately three more hours as the environment begins to change from high-Andean mountain terrain to greener vegetation. Arrive in Colpapampa at approximately 2,900 meters above sea level for the second overnight camp.
Day 3: Colpapampa – Playa Sahuayaco – Hidroeléctrica – Aguas Calientes
After breakfast at approximately 6:00 a.m., begin the day's walk through the cloud forest. The first section takes around five hours and includes a mixture of ascents, descents and gentler terrain.
As the route becomes warmer and greener, see coffee plantations and a variety of orchids and bromeliads. Continue toward Playa Sahuayaco, where lunch is served.
From this area, take local transportation toward Hidroeléctrica. This transportation is not included in the tour price and is paid separately.
From Hidroeléctrica, continue walking along the railway route toward Aguas Calientes for approximately three hours. On arrival, settle into the accommodation for the final night before visiting Machu Picchu.
Day 4: Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu – Cusco
Begin the final day early for the visit to Machu Picchu. According to the arrangements made with your guide, proceed toward the main entrance of the archaeological site with your admission ticket and passport ready for check-in.
During the guided visit, explore the Machu Picchu archaeological complex and learn about its temples, terraces, palaces and agricultural sectors, with time available for photographs during the visit.
After the Machu Picchu experience, return to Aguas Calientes. Bus tickets between Aguas Calientes and the Machu Picchu entrance are not included in the tour price.
Later, board the return train to Ollantaytambo. On arrival, continue with the included transfer from Ollantaytambo back to Cusco.
Salkantay Trek 4 Days Price and Booking Information
Select your travel date and available service option to check the current price and booking availability for the Salkantay Trek 4 Days to Machu Picchu.
Please note: some local entrance fees, optional transportation, equipment rental, Machu Picchu bus tickets and personal expenses are not included unless specifically stated in your confirmed service.
Group Price
What’s Included in the Salkantay Trek 4 Days?
What is included?
- Pre-trek briefing one day before departure.
- Tourist transportation included in the confirmed itinerary.
- Professional guide.
- Two nights of accommodation at camps.
- One night in comfortable lodging.
- Three breakfasts.
- Three lunches.
- Three dinners.
- Transportation of up to 5 kg of personal equipment by horses.
- Muleteers.
- Cook.
- First-aid kit.
- Oxygen.
- Entrance to Machu Picchu.
- Return train ticket.
- Transfer from Ollantaytambo station to Cusco.
What is not included?
- Domestic and international flights.
- First breakfast before the trek.
- Meals outside the three breakfasts, three lunches and three dinners included in the confirmed itinerary.
- Local transportation to Hidroeléctrica.
- Sleeping bag; rental may be available at additional cost.
- Trekking poles; rental may be available at additional cost.
- Local entrance or access fee required on Day 1.
- Entrance to the Cocalmayo hot springs.
- Optional tips.
- Additional entrance fees not expressly included.
- Bus tickets between Aguas Calientes and the Machu Picchu entrance.
- Personal expenses.
What to Know Before Your Salkantay Trek 4 Days
- Duration: 4 days and 3 nights.
- Activity: Multi-day hiking.
- Difficulty: Moderate.
- Maximum altitude: Approximately 4,650 m above sea level at the Salkantay Pass.
- Accommodation: Two nights at camps and one night in comfortable lodging.
- Meals: Three breakfasts, three lunches and three dinners are included.
- Luggage: Up to 5 kg of personal equipment can be transported by horses during the trek.
- Briefing: A pre-trek information briefing is provided one day before departure.
- Altitude: The route reaches 4,650 m, so hiking at altitude can feel more demanding even when the overall tour is classified as moderate.
- Weather: Conditions change considerably between the high Andes and the lower cloud forest, so prepare for cold, sun, rain and warmer conditions during the same journey.
- Footwear: Wear comfortable hiking shoes or sturdy footwear suitable for rocky and uneven terrain.
- Daypack: Carry a small backpack for the items you need during each day of hiking.
- Sun protection: Bring sunscreen, a hat and sunglasses.
- Rain protection: Carry a rain poncho or waterproof outer layer.
- Personal items: Bring your passport, personal medication, flashlight, towel, toilet paper and insect repellent.
- Water and snacks: Carry water or a hydrating drink for the first day and bring energy snacks for the trek.
- Cash: Carry additional Peruvian soles for local fees and personal expenses that are not included.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Salkantay Trek 4 Days
How long is the Salkantay Trek?
This itinerary lasts 4 days and 3 nights, beginning with an early departure from Cusco and ending with the visit to Machu Picchu and return to Cusco on Day 4.
What is the maximum altitude on the Salkantay Trek 4 Days?
The highest point of this itinerary is the Salkantay Pass at approximately 4,650 meters above sea level.
Is Humantay Lake included in the 4-day Salkantay Trek?
Yes. Humantay Lake is visited on the afternoon of Day 1 after reaching Soraypampa.
How difficult is the Salkantay Trek 4 Days?
The tour is classified as moderate. However, the route includes several hours of hiking each day and reaches approximately 4,650 meters, so altitude and changing terrain can make some sections physically demanding.
Where do we sleep during the trek?
The package includes two nights of accommodation at camps and one night in comfortable lodging before the Machu Picchu visit.
How many meals are included?
The confirmed service includes three breakfasts, three lunches and three dinners during the four-day itinerary.
How much luggage can the horses carry?
Up to 5 kg of personal equipment per traveler can be transported by the horses during the trekking portion of the route.
Is the Machu Picchu entrance included?
Yes. Entrance to Machu Picchu is included in the tour service. Bus tickets between Aguas Calientes and the Machu Picchu entrance are not included.
Is the return train included?
Yes. The return train ticket is included, together with the transfer from Ollantaytambo station back to Cusco.
Are sleeping bags and trekking poles included?
No. Sleeping bags and trekking poles are not included. Rental may be available at an additional cost.
What should I bring for the Salkantay Trek?
Bring your passport, sturdy hiking footwear, layered clothing, a warm jacket, rain protection, a small daypack, sunscreen, hat, sunglasses, insect repellent, personal medication, flashlight, towel, energy snacks, water for the first day and extra Peruvian soles for personal expenses.
Does the landscape change during the Salkantay Trek?
Yes. The route begins in cold high-Andean mountain landscapes and gradually descends toward the warmer cloud forest, where coffee plantations, orchids and bromeliads appear along the trail.