3-Day Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu

Hikes from Cusco to Machu Picchu – Best Routes & Treks

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.

Tour Details

Duration

3 Days

Tour Type

Trekking

Difficulty

Moderate

Departure & Return

Cusco

Start Time

Group Size

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.

5. What happens if I experience altitude sickness or another medical emergency during the trek?
Our guides are professionally trained in first aid and carry a medical kit, including oxygen. They are equipped to handle basic emergencies like altitude sickness. In more serious cases, the guide will arrange for the quickest possible evacuation from the trail to ensure you receive appropriate medical treatment at a clinic.

Starting at

$500per person

4.9

37 Reviews

Please review our policies before booking your tour.

Do you have any questions?

Feel free to call us. We’re a team of experts and would be happy to speak with you.

Customer Experience

      
   Trails to Machu Picchu
   45 Tripadvisor reviews 
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       Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   Rachel C 
 
 
 
 Verified Thanks Richard Did this four day Salkantay Trek with them as the Inca Trail was sold out. It was very pleasant experience and Richard, our guide took great effort inmaking this trip a memorable one. The camping sites were located in quiet parts of the trek, giving us opportunity to get good rest after a day full of hike. The food were all freshly cooked and authentic. Highly recommend
  
 
      Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   Jeniffer P 
 
 
 
 Verified Immervie, cultural and traditional I booked this four day Choquequirao trek after not being able to hike the Inca Trail due to lack of availability. The trip was very well organised, the tour company took care of everything from transport and food to accomodation and entrance tickets. The guide was very nice and spoke good English. The site itself was very less crowded and scenic. Higly recommend visiting Choquequirao if you want to know more about the Incas history.
  
 
      Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   Erick W 
 
 
 
 Verified Thanks Richard! Did this two day trek with Richard, our guide. He was very friendly, informative and passionate to share his knowledge about the local traditions and customs. The trek included all meals and were all freshly cooked. The camping sites were located overlooking the valley. The red valley trip was the highlight and i truly enjoyed it more than the rainbow mountain.
  
 
      Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   Valery H 
 
 
 
 Verified Viaje mágico ✨️ I took the 4-day, 3-night tour to Choquequirao, and it was definitely an amazing experience. The organization was excellent, the service was outstanding throughout, and the team was always attentive and professional. Plus, the atmosphere was super fun, which made the whole trip even more special. I highly recommend this tour company if you're looking for a well-planned adventure full of great moments 😉
  
 
      Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   Miguel Ángel M 
 
 
 
 Verified Choquequirao Hi everyone, I highly recommend the Choquequirao tour (the one I did) with this agency because of all my options, it offered the best guaranteed service. There were no problems, so I'm very satisfied.
  
 
      Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   Navigate03655434048 
 
 
 
 Verified Recommended I did the Machu Picchu-Inca Trail tour with this agency, 100% recommended guys, the service was excellent and seeing all these places was simply beautiful
  
 
      Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   Navigator25956226682 
 
 
 
 Verified A really wonderfull experience Visiting Manu National Park with this agency was truly the best choice! 👌 The Peruvian rainforest is truly magnificent and wonderful, and the agency really gives you the opportunity to experience the best of it.
  
 
      Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   Luis 
 
 
 
 Verified A Remarkable Journey to Choquequirao An unforgettable 5-star adventure to Choquequirao, with breathtaking views, incredible Inca ruins, and a true sense of untouched beauty throughout the trek. The experience was made even better by our tour guide, Richard, who was knowledgeable, funny, and kind—he kept us motivated, shared fascinating insights, and made every moment along the journey even more enjoyable.
  
 
      Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   Nancy M 
 
 
 
 Verified The trip of my dreams!!! I'm Nancy and I loved the experience we had with the tour. We had a wonderful experience to remember. The service was excellent, punctual, and professional from everyone who accompanied us. We'll definitely be back, thank you so much! 🤗
  
 
      Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   rocio c 
 
 
 
 Verified beautiful experience We had an unforgettable experience with this company visiting Manu National Park for two days. My family and I are very happy to have enjoyed such a well-organized tour. We saw monkeys, birds, snakes, capybaras, caimans, and much more. Thank you for this great experience, Trails to Machu Picchu.

      
   Trails to Machu Picchu
   11 Google reviews 
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       Posted on Google  
   
   Fede 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I did the Machu Picchu-Inca Trail tour with this agency, 100% recommended guys, the service was excellent and seeing all these places was simply beautiful
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   sofi_so 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Visiting Manu National Park with this agency was truly the best choice! 👌 The Peruvian rainforest is truly magnificent and wonderful, and the agency really gives you the opportunity to experience the best of it.
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Luis Fernando Chullo Ochoa 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Tuvimos un viaje inolvidable al parque manu de 2 dias 1 noche. Fue un tour inolvidable para nosotro y lo disfrutamod al maximo. Esta agencia de viajes es muy recomendable, desde el transporte, aalimentacion, guiado profecional y toda la logistica muy bien organizada gracias por todo señores de traisl to machupicchu
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   David Soncco C. (D.v.D) 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Fue uno bonita experiencia realizar el tour al Parque Nacional del Manu por 3 días, los guías super buenísimos que  nos ayudaron a llevarnos una bonita experiencia, muy atentos y super divertidos!!!
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Ahsan 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. They made my day 😊⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Ahsan Visa services 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I had a great experience with them, recommended
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   DivCode 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Very good tour that I have done, highly recommended to know the Inca Trail🙂😌
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Nelly Montalvo Pacco 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Tuvimos la oportunidad de ir con mi familia a conocer Cusco y la experiancia fue única, lo pasamos muy bien desde el transporte, nuestro guía fue muy profesional, la alimentación   excelente. Hizo que mi estancia fuera realmente memorable. Estamos muy agradecidos y recomendamos la Agencia de viajes.
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   david abraham soto lopez 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Buen servicio... me encanto el Guiado de la agencia ... siempre atentos y aclarando cada duda y pregunta con mucho conocimiento.