3-Day Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu
If you’re looking for an unforgettable adventure but have limited time, the 3-Day Salkantay Trek is the perfect way to experience the breathtaking landscapes of the Peruvian Andes. Covering 52.5 km (32.6 miles) in just two days of trekking, this scenic route leads you through towering snow-capped mountains, cascading waterfalls, and the lush cloud forest before reaching one of the world’s most iconic destinations.
More than just a trek, this remarkable journey offers the opportunity to immerse yourself in nature, discover Peru’s diverse ecosystems, and experience one of South America’s most spectacular mountain routes. The highlight of the adventure is arriving at Machu Picchu, the world-famous UNESCO World Heritage Site, where incredible views and a lasting sense of accomplishment await.
Recognized by National Geographic as one of the world’s top trekking routes, the Salkantay Trek is the leading alternative to the Inca Trail. Along the way, you’ll admire the impressive Apu Salkantay Glacier, cross spectacular Andean scenery, descend into the vibrant cloud forest, and share unforgettable moments with fellow travelers from around the world. In just three days, this unforgettable expedition combines adventure, culture, and some of Peru’s most extraordinary natural landscapes.
3 Days
Trekking
Moderate
Cusco
12 people
Detailed Itinerary
Day 01 – Overcome the Challenge to the Salkantay Pass
Conquer the Salkantay Pass
Your adventure begins with an early morning pick-up from your accommodation in Cusco (2:00 a.m. – 2:30 a.m.), followed by a scenic 3.5-hour drive through Anta, Mollepata, and Challacancha. Upon arrival at Soraypampa (3,900 m / 12,795 ft), the trek’s starting point, you’ll enjoy a hearty breakfast and meet your trekking team. The most challenging section awaits: a steep 7 km (4.35 miles) ascent to the Salkantay Pass (4,630 m / 15,190 ft), known as the ‘Path of the 7 Snakes’, offering panoramic views of the Salkantay Glacier (6,271 m / 20,574 ft) and neighboring peaks like Humantay. After conquering the pass, descend 7 km (4.35 miles) to Wayracmachay for a delicious lunch. The journey continues 9.5 km (5.9 miles) into the lush Amazon rainforest, where the climate shifts from crisp Andean air to warm, humid jungle. By late afternoon, you’ll reach the exclusive Mountain Sky View Campsite in Collpapampa (2,950 m / 9,978 ft), where you’ll enjoy dinner and a restful night amidst nature’s tranquility.
Daily Highlights:
- Hotel pick-up from Cusco (2:00 a.m. – 2:30 a.m.)
- Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner included
- Accommodation at Mountain Sky View Campsite
Day 02 – Enter Cusco’s Tropical Paradise
Day 03 – Explore the Magical and Mystical Machu Picchu
Inclusions
What's included
- Entry Ticket to the Salkantay Trek
- Entry Ticket to Machu Picchu Archaeological Site (Circuit 2, 3-B, or 1-B depending on availability)
- Pre-departure briefing
- Experienced, bilingual, professionally trained, and certified tour guide
- One duffel bag for personal belongings (max 5 kg / 11 lb) carried by staff/mules
- Sleeping bag (-18ºC / 0ºF rating) with liner
- Trekking poles
- Medical kit or first aid kit with oxygen
- Backpack cover
- Professional long-range walkie-talkies
- Accommodation Day 1: Exclusive Mountain Sky View Campsite in Collpapampa (private bathrooms, hot showers, dining room, kitchen)
- Accommodation Day 2: Hotel in Aguas Calientes (private room, hot shower, Wi-Fi, breakfast, luggage storage)
- 3 breakfasts, 2 lunches, and 2 dinners (vegetarian, vegan, or special diets available)
- Boiled, warm water provided after each meal
- Wake-up coca tea on Day 2
- Tea Time/Happy Hour with snacks on Day 1
- Daily snacks on the trail (refilled each morning)
- One cloth snack bag per person
- Private transportation from Cusco to Soraypampa (Day 1)
- Private transportation from Granadilla to Hidroeléctrica (Day 2)
- Private transportation from Ollantaytambo train station to your hotel in Cusco (Day 3)
- One-way Consettur Bus Ticket from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu (Day 3)
- Train ticket from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo (Expedition Machu Picchu by PeruRail or The Voyager to Machu Picchu by Inca Rail)
- Personal belongings transportation (duffel bag) by pack mules, private vehicle, or train.
What's not included
- Entrance tickets for Huayna Picchu Mountain (US$ 60.00)
- Entrance tickets for Machu Picchu Mountain (US$ 60.00)
- Entrance tickets for Huchuy Picchu Mountain (US$ 50.00)
- Return bus ticket from Machu Picchu to Aguas Calientes (Day 3) (one-way ticket included, extra cost for round trip)
- Lunch in Aguas Calientes and dinner in Cusco (Day 3)
- Train from Hidroeléctrica to Aguas Calientes (Day 2) (optional, starting from US$ 41.00)
- Personal hiking clothing and gear (except sleeping bag and trekking poles)
- Travel insurance
- Tips for our staff
- Additional costs or delays beyond our control (e.g., landslides, adverse weather, strikes, illnesses, government policy changes).
- 5% processing fee for online deposits (PayPal and Niubiz).
Packing List
Prepare for your 3-Day Salkantay Trek by packing the right gear to stay comfortable in changing weather conditions. Temperatures can vary from cold mountain mornings to warm afternoons in the cloud forest, so bringing appropriate clothing and essential equipment will help you enjoy the journey to the fullest.
- Original passport
- Small daypack (20–30 L)
- Comfortable hiking boots
- Lightweight hiking pants
- Moisture-wicking T-shirts
- Warm fleece or insulated jacket
- Waterproof jacket or rain poncho
- Hat for sun protection
- Warm beanie and gloves
- Sunglasses with UV protection
- Sunscreen (SPF 30+)
- Insect repellent
- Reusable water bottle or hydration pack
- Personal toiletries
- Basic first-aid kit and personal medications
- Trekking poles (optional but recommended)
- Headlamp or flashlight
- Camera or smartphone with charger
- Power bank
- Snacks (energy bars, nuts, dried fruit)
- Extra cash for personal expenses and tips
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Is travel insurance required for this trek?
While not explicitly required by the operator, travel insurance is highly recommended for all participants. It should cover medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and unforeseen circumstances such as natural disasters or strikes, as additional costs incurred due to such events are not covered by the tour operator.
2. What are the Wi-Fi and mobile connectivity options during the trek?
Wi-Fi is available at the hotel in Aguas Calientes on Day 2. However, connectivity will be limited to non-existent during the trekking portions, especially in remote areas like the Salkantay Pass and cloud forest. It’s an opportunity to disconnect and immerse yourself in nature.
3. Is there an age limit or recommended fitness level for the 3-Day Salkantay Challenge?
This trek is rated ‘Difficult’ and is best suited for adventurous trekkers who are physically fit and have experience with high-altitude hiking. While there’s no strict age limit, participants should be in excellent health. We recommend arriving in Cusco 2-3 days prior to acclimatize to the altitude.
4. What is the policy regarding luggage that exceeds the 5 kg duffel bag limit?
During the trek, personal belongings are limited to a 5 kg (11 lb) duffel bag, which is carried by pack mules or private transport. Any additional luggage not needed for the trek can be stored securely at our main office in Cusco or your hotel, free of charge. Please ensure valuables are kept in a hotel safe and a receipt is obtained.
Feel free to call us. We’re a team of experts and would be happy to speak with you.
- +51 970 409 091
- [email protected]