Challenge Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu 3 Days
3 Days from $ 580.00
Challenge Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu 3 Days
c3 Days from $ 580.00
Embark on an incredible journey through the snow-capped Salkantay mountains towards one of the New 7 Wonders of the Modern World – Machu Picchu. The Salkantay trek, rated by National Geographic Adventure Magazine as one of the 25 Best Treks in the World, features Mount Salkantay, the highest mountain in the Vilcabamba Mountain range and an iconic landmark in the Cusco region.
The Salkantay trail takes hikers on a two-day adventure, starting from the south and ascending the Salkantay Pass, offering breathtaking views of the valley below from the 4,600m-high summit. The 4-day and 3-night trek is a thrilling expedition that showcases the Andean mountains, lush green landscapes (Cloud forest), streams, rivers, and hot springs that provide respite after a physically demanding hike. The temperature changes along the trek, and hikers can even encounter snow at the highest point of the trail at 4,630 meters/15,228 feet above sea level.
On the fifth day, hikers get to explore the grandeur of Machu Picchu City, the final destination of the trek, after an early morning start.
Tour Name: Salkantay Trek 3 Days to Machupicchu Sky Lodge Dome (Challenge)
Starting Point: Pick-up from Cusco & Sacred Valley Hotel/Airbnb. From 4:30 am to 5:00 am
Ending Point: Drop-off in Cusco at Hotel/Airbnb 10:30 pm
Departure: Daily. If you are a group of 02 we depart (No matter if you have paid as a large group service). We NEVER pass our people onto another operator as most agencies do here in Cusco
Hiking Distance: 60.5 km / 37.5 ml
Physical Level: Level 3. Salkantay Trek requires some physical preparation and we also recommend to Aclimatize 2 days beforeSkyDome we begin the Salkantay Trek
Maximum Altitude: 4,630 m / 15,228 ft
Transportation: Private Van/Bus to Challacancha (for our Passengers and staff) Tourist Expedition Train Back from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo and Bus back to Cusco
Accomodation: 01 night in Glamping Sky Dome ( Private Campsite of Domes at Chaullay 1 night in the hotel (Aguas Calientes)
Portering/Horseback Service: 7 Kilos/14 Pounds Extra Portering service is included. We will provide you a duffel bag for your personal Stuff (This will be carried by the porter or Horses), Water Bottle, Rain Poncho & Inca Trail T-shirt at the briefing time
Meals: 3 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 3 dinners, 2 tea times + wake-up teas
Machu Picchu: Machupicchu entrance fee Included.
2B, 2L, 2D
Loal Guide, Private Conductor
Bus, Hike, Train
Glamping
Demanding
Important Information: We offer flexible departure dates for our tours, with a minimum of 2 people required to confirm a booking. All of our departures are guaranteed, so once you book with us, you can rest assured that you will be going on your chosen tour. To secure your spot, simply complete our booking form and send a 30% deposit.
Alternatively, for those who have limited time or are not up for the challenge of a 4-day Salkantay Trek, we have some fantastic options for you. You can choose our 3-day Salkantay Trek and Humantay Lake, which connects to Machu Picchu by train from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes. Or, if you’re looking for a shorter adventure, you can opt for our 2-day Salkantay and Humantay Lake tour, where you will stay in our comfortable domes. Both options provide unique experiences of the beautiful Andean landscape and breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains.
We’ll be picking you up bright and early between 4:30 and 5:00 am to start the day with a hearty breakfast. Then, we will hit the road for a 2-hour drive to reach our destination, where we’ll start the first leg of our adventure. The trail ahead will be challenging, but we’re confident you’ll enjoy every minute of it. We’ll be making our way towards Humantay Lake, which is situated at an altitude of 3800m/11750ft. Our skilled cook and horseman will accompany us, carrying all necessary camping equipment and supplies.
As we trek, you’ll be treated to incredible views of the surrounding snow-capped mountains, including Humantay (4120m/13500ft) and Salkantay (6271m/20575ft). After a well-deserved lunch break, we’ll make our way to Soraypampa, where we’ll set up camp for the night. This campsite is the highest and coldest one of the entire trek, but it’s worth it for the stunning views of Salkantay. In the evening, we’ll gather around the campfire, enjoying some warm drinks and delicious food while taking in the starry sky above.
1ST DAY: Total distance: 19 km (approx.)
Estimated walking time: 8 – 9 hours
Maximum altitude point: 4,650 m (approx.)
Campsite altitude: 2,750 m (approx.)
We will set off after breakfast at 7:00 am and venture through the lush greenery of the Andean highland on our way to Aguas Calientes. Our hike will take us across serene rivers, small waterfalls, and fields of vibrant flowers. The scenic journey will take approximately 7 hours, but there will be plenty of rest stops along the way to admire the awe-inspiring landscapes and capture some memorable photos.
Once we arrive at Aguas Calientes, we will check-in at our hotel and enjoy some downtime. We highly recommend taking a relaxing dip in the nearby hot springs to soothe your muscles before your big day at Machu Picchu. We will have dinner at a local restaurant before retiring for the night. The next day, we will be up early and refreshed to visit the ancient city of Machu Picchu.
2ND DAY: Total distance: 16 km (approx.)
Estimated walking time: 7-8 hours
Maximum altitude point: 2,750 m (aprox.)
altitude: 1,900 m (aprox.)
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On the important day of the Salkantay trek, we wake up early in the morning around 4 am, have breakfast until 4:30 am, and then start walking towards Machu Picchu. It takes one and a half hours to walk up to Machu Picchu, but there is another option to catch the first bus at 5:30 am which takes 25 minutes to reach Machu Picchu and allows you to appreciate the magnificent city as the sun rises.
Your guide will give a walking tour of approximately 2 hours, after which you can explore the mysterious city on your own. If you still have the energy, you can also climb Huayna Picchu (2720m/8890ft) which takes 45 minutes to reach the top. After enjoying Machu Picchu, you have to go down to Aguas Calientes to take the train back to Ollantaytambo and then the bus back to Cusco.
For those who choose to return by bus, they will have to walk back from Machu Picchu to Hidroelectrica to take the bus back. You must be at Hidroelectrica between 2:30 pm to 3:00 pm.
3RD DAY: Total distance: 4 km (approx.)
Estimated walking time: 1- 2 hours
Maximum altitude point: 2,700 m (approx.)
Our day begins with an early breakfast before embarking on a scenic hike to the awe-inspiring Inca citadel, Machu Picchu. We will trek along a path that offers stunning views of the surrounding landscapes, and after approximately two hours, we will reach the site.
At Machu Picchu, our expert guide will lead us on a fascinating tour, providing insight into the history and culture of this ancient city for approximately two hours. Following the guided tour, we will have some free time to explore the site on our own and take in its beauty at our leisure.
For those feeling adventurous, we also offer an optional hike to the peak of Putucusi Mountain, which takes approximately two hours up and one hour down. The panoramic views of Machu Picchu and the surrounding mountains from the summit are breathtaking.
After exploring Machu Picchu, we will board the train back to Ollantaytambo, followed by a bus ride back to Cusco, where our journey will come to an end.
Availability: (Based on Availability) All Departures are 100% Guaranteed. If You’re Booked, You are Going, We won’t cancel your Trip !!!
How to Book?: Send us all Your Personal information, as well as a Deposit of USD 200, and the Final Balance will be paid 2 days before the Inca trail begins
Classic Inca Trail: Price per person: US$580
Recommended for Honeymooners, Families with children & Groups of Friends (02 People Minimum)
Many people tend to assume that South America is a hot continent, but due to the higher altitude of the Andes, the temperature can feel quite chilly, particularly at night. We suggest using a backpack or duffel bag, whichever is more convenient for you to carry. Additionally, a well-sized daypack is a must-have.
The Salkantay Trek is a popular alternative to the Inca Trail for those seeking a challenging and scenic trek to Machu Picchu in Peru. The trek takes you through diverse landscapes, including snow-capped mountains, lush rainforests, and traditional Andean villages, before reaching the famous Inca ruins.
The trek typically lasts five days and four nights, with a total distance of approximately 75 kilometers (47 miles). Along the way, you will reach an altitude of 4,600 meters (15,000 feet) at the Salkantay Pass, which offers spectacular views of the surrounding mountain range.
The Salkantay Trek is considered a moderate to difficult hike, and trekkers are advised to be in good physical condition and acclimatized to the altitude before attempting the trek. Many tour operators offer guided tours with experienced guides who provide information about the local flora and fauna, as well as the cultural significance of the area.
The Salkantay Trek is a popular option for those who are unable to obtain permits for the Inca Trail, which has a limited number of daily permits available. The Salkantay Trek also offers a more remote and less crowded experience than the Inca Trail, with fewer restrictions on group sizes and camping locations.
If you’re planning to embark on the Salkantay Trek, it’s important to pack the right gear to ensure a safe and comfortable journey. Here are some essential items to consider bringing:
It’s important to note that some items, such as sleeping bags and trekking poles, may be available for rent at the start of the trek, so be sure to check with your tour operator before packing. Additionally, be sure to pack everything in a waterproof and durable bag to protect your gear from the elements.
The Salkantay Trek is a high-altitude trek that covers a distance of about 74.5 kilometers (46.3 miles). Here are the key altitudes and distances you can expect to encounter on the trek:
It’s important to note that altitude sickness is a serious concern on the Salkantay Trek, particularly at the high elevations near the Salkantay Pass. It’s recommended that trekkers spend a few days acclimatizing to the altitude before starting the trek, and take proper precautions such as staying hydrated, eating well, and ascending slowly.
The weather in the Salkantay trek can vary depending on the season and altitude. Generally, the trek covers a range of climates, from hot and humid valleys to chilly and windy mountain passes.
During the dry season (April to October), temperatures can range from 10°C (50°F) to 25°C (77°F) during the day, with colder temperatures at night. However, temperatures can drop below freezing at higher elevations, so it’s important to pack warm layers for the night.
During the rainy season (November to March), temperatures are generally cooler and there is a higher chance of rainfall. Temperatures during the day can range from 5°C (41°F) to 20°C (68°F), and temperatures at night can drop to freezing levels. It’s important to pack waterproof gear and warm layers to protect against the rain and cold.
It’s important to note that weather conditions can change rapidly in the mountains, so it’s recommended to pack for a variety of weather conditions and to check the forecast before embarking on the trek.
The Salkantay trek is a 4-day, 3-night hiking expedition that takes you through the Andean mountains in Peru, offering breathtaking views of the iconic Mount Salkantay and Machu Picchu.
The Salkantay trek is a 4-day, 3-night trek covering approximately 74 km or 46 miles.
Yes, the Salkantay trek is considered to be a challenging trek, as it involves hiking at high altitudes with steep ascents and descents.
The best time to do the Salkantay trek is from April to October, which is the dry season in Peru.
The highest altitude on the Salkantay trek is at the Salkantay Pass, which stands at 4,600 meters or 15,091 feet above sea level.
Yes, you need to be physically fit to do the Salkantay trek, as it involves hiking at high altitudes with steep ascents and descents.
You should pack warm clothes, waterproof gear, comfortable hiking shoes, a sleeping bag, a good-sized daypack, and other essentials like sunscreen, insect repellent, and a water bottle.
It is highly recommended to have a guide for the Salkantay trek, as they can provide valuable information about the trail, help with navigation, and ensure your safety.
The Salkantay trek is an alternative trek to the Inca trail, offering different landscapes and scenery. While the Inca trail takes you through ancient Inca ruins and settlements, the Salkantay trek takes you through Andean mountains, cloud forests, and hot springs.
Yes, the Salkantay trek is definitely worth it for adventure seekers and nature lovers. The stunning scenery and challenging hike make for a truly rewarding experience.
The best time to do the Salkantay trek is from April to November, which is the dry season in the Andes.
Yes, altitude sickness is a concern on the Salkantay trek. It is important to acclimatize properly before starting the trek, and to stay hydrated throughout the journey.
Yes, the Salkantay trek is a physically demanding hike, and requires a good level of fitness. It is important to prepare in advance by doing regular exercise and cardio.
The Salkantay trek is home to a variety of wildlife, including Andean condors, llamas, alpacas, and vicuñas.
Yes, camping gear is provided on the Salkantay trek, including tents, sleeping bags, and sleeping mats.
Yes, you can bring your own food and snacks on the Salkantay trek. However, it is important to pack light and only bring what is necessary.
There are no age restrictions for the Salkantay trek, but it is important to keep in mind the physical demands of the hike.
While it is possible to do the Salkantay trek independently, it is recommended to go with a guide for safety and to ensure a smooth experience.
Yes, the Salkantay trek passes through the Inca ruins of Llactapata, and culminates with a visit to Machu Picchu.
Yes, there are many other activities and tours that can be combined with the Salkantay trek, such as visiting the Sacred Valley, exploring Cusco, or taking a boat tour of Lake Titicaca.
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