From Challacancha, Cusco to Machu Picchu in Peru

Four Days Salkantay + Humantay to Machu Picchu

Price From
598 USD
Duration
4 days
Max People
12
Min Age
14+
Tour Type
   
Reviews
4.88/5
View 2026 Dates

Trip Summary 4 days

Duration4 days / 3 nights
Trip styleActive Hiking - Salkantay Trek
Trek Start PointChallacancha, Cusco
Trek End PointMachu Picchu (Trip extensions available)
HighlightsHumantay Lagoon, Salkantay, Machu Picchu
TrainMachu Picchu to Ollantaytambo
TransferTransfer to Salkantay trek starting point & Ollantaytambo to Cusco.
AccommodationMarmot Tents & One hotel night in Machu Picchu Town
Price 2026fromUSD598
Trip CodeSALK4D

Machu Picchu and Salkantay Trekking 4 days Adventure

This express version of the Salkantay adventure is suitable for anyone with limited vacation time. The hardest part is on day two due to our ascending at 4600 m / 15090 ft to the Salkantay Pass. You will arrive to Machu Picchu town (Aguas Calientes) on day three and have a guided tour on day four.

This breathtaking adventure in the heart of the Vilcabamba Mountain range will take you through amazing landscapes dominated by snow-capped peaks, crossed by mighty rivers, and populated by ancient traditional villages, until you reach the sacred citadel of Machu Picchu itself.

The 4-day/3-night Salkantay trek to Machu Picchu is challenging yet rewarding and ranks high among Peru and the world’s most spectacular trekking routes.

Salkantay 4 days trek to Machu Picchu
Salkantay 4 days trek to Machu Picchu

4-day Itinerary

4-day Salkantay Trek | Salkantay Express Trek to Machu Picchu4 days / 3 nights
Salkantay 4 days Map
Salkantay 4 days Map
  • Day 1

    Cusco - Challacancha - Humantay Lagoon - Soraypampa:

    We depart Cusco at around 5:00 a.m. After a three hours bus ride we arrive to the andean town of Mollepata (2900 meters above sea level) where you have the chance to get last minute supplies (e.g. toilet paper, snacks), some leg-stretching and use the restrooms before continuing to our trek starting point at Challacancha (3675 meters above sea level).

    At this point we will meet our support staff and load the equipment on horses and mules. Around 9:00 a.m., we will begin our hike toward Soraypampa. On the way we will have a beautiful view of the majestic Salkantay, other snow-covered peaks and the Apurimac Valley. We will have a traditional Peruvian lunch at Soraypampa. After lunch, a relatively moderate hike will take us to the beautiful Humantay Lagoon. We will have time to admire the jaw-dropping landscape of the Andes. Then back to base for snacks and dinner.

    Buenas Noches Amigos.

    🍲 Meals included: Lunch | Dinner📍 Distance covered: 13 Km.Trekking time: 5 hours📈 Height gain: +200m🏨 Accommodation: Marmot Tents
    Day One of the 4 Days Salkantay to Machu Picchu Trek from Cusco to Soraypampa with Humantay Lagoon
    Day One of the 4 Days Salkantay to Machu Picchu Trek from Cusco to Soraypampa with Humantay Lagoon
  • Day 2

    Soraypampa - Wayramachay - Chaullay:

    Today, nature will change drastically from dry sceneries to snowy peaks and tropical areas. After a nutritious breakfast, the most difficult part of the trek awaits. We begin today's hike gradually ascending, until reaching the highest point (4630 meters above sea level).

    We will appreciate spectacular views of the mountains and the imposing snowy peaks of the Salkantay (6264 meters above sea level) which is known as the second highest peak of the Cusco region. On our way down, we will encounter semi tropical climate. Around 1:00 p.m., we will have our lunch, in the area called Wayramachay (3853 meters above sea level).

    After a hike of approximately 3 hours, we will arrive to our camp in Chaullay (2920 meters above sea level). At around 7:00 p.m., dinner will be served.

    Buen provecho y a descansar.

    🍲 Meals included: Breakfast | Lunch | Dinner📍 Distance covered: 20 Km.Trekking time: 8 hours📈 Height gain: +630m📉 Descent: -1710m🏨 Accommodation: Marmot Tents
    Day Two of the 4 Days Salkantay to Machu Picchu Trek from Soraypampa with Salkantay Pass
    Day Two of the 4 Days Salkantay to Machu Picchu Trek from Soraypampa with Salkantay Pass
  • Day 3

    Chaullay - Playa Sahuayaco - Machu Picchu Town:

    Around 7:30a.m., we will start our trek and enjoy the beautiful sunrise. We will walk for about 5 hours toward Playa Sahuayaco, we will observe a town called Collpabamba, also called the Forest Cloudy Brow where waterfalls, fruit-bearing trees, varied flora, and birds can be observed. If we are lucky, we will be able to observe the famous bird called the 'Rooster of the Rocks'.

    Once at Playa Sahuayaco, we will take a local bus to drive us to Santa Teresa where we will have lunch at around 1:30p.m. After lunch, we continue to the Hydroelectric where we will start hiking towards Machu Picchu Town - Aguas Calientes (2040 meters above sea level).

    Check-in at the selected hotel and we will have dinner at around 7:00 pm.

    🍲 Meals included: Breakfast | Lunch | Dinner📍 Distance covered: 25 Km.Trekking time: 8 hours📉 Descent: -880m🏨 Accommodation: Hotel
    Day Three of the 4 Days Salkantay to Machu Picchu Trek from Chaullay to Machu Picchu Town and Aguas Calientes
    Day Three of the 4 Days Salkantay to Machu Picchu Trek from Chaullay to Machu Picchu Town and Aguas Calientes
  • Day 4

    Machu Picchu - Cusco:

    Today, you will start early in order to be one of the first ones at the gate. In Machu Picchu, you will have a guided tour for about two hours. You will be free to explore the Citadel and take more pictures after the guided tour, if you desire, walk up to the Sun Gate or ascent toward Huayna Picchu Mountain (you will need an aditional ticket to access Huayna Picchu).

    At your convenience head back down to Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu Town) and take the train to Ollantaytambo (Normally at 6:20 pm. unless you request a different one).

    From Ollantaytambo, a bus will drive you to Cusco.

    🍲 Meals included: Breakfast2 hours Machu Picchu Tour
    Day Four of the 4 Days Salkantay to Machu Picchu Trek from Aguas Calientes back to Cusco with Machu Picchu tour
    Day Four of the 4 Days Salkantay to Machu Picchu Trek from Aguas Calientes back to Cusco with Machu Picchu tour

Salkantay 4 days Inclusions

  • Transportation
  • Pick up from the hotel
  • Transportation Cusco - Challacancha (trek starting point)
  • Transportation to Santa Teresa hot springs
  • Consettur Bus ticket Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu up and down
  • Train ticket Aguas Calientes / Ollantaytambo (Train upgrade available upon request)
  • Transfer Ollantaytambo train station to downtown Cusco (Bimodal service)
  • Horses and authorized mules to carry the tents and cooking equipment
  • Accommodation
  • Clean towel every morning and hot water for hygiene
  • Aguas Calientes accomodation in double or triple rooms
  • 1 Hotel night in Machu Picchu Town
  • Salkantay Trek group service package - 2 nights camping
  • Personal pad (double foam)
  • Four Season Marmot Tents
  • Dining Tent, kitchen utensils
  • Meals
  • Cold boiled water to refill your bottle in the morning
  • 3 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 3 dinners
  • Tea time during the journey
  • Vegetarian or vegan food available upon request with no extra charge.
  • Expert Support Team
  • Briefing / Informative presentation prior to the Salkantay Trek
  • English/Spanish-speaking professional guide
  • Mountain Cheff (Experienced cook) and cooking equipment
  • Personal Travel Advisor assigned for you to customize the rest of your Peru Trip
  • Safety equipment, radio transmitter
  • First aid kit and oxygen bottle
  • Activities, Weight & Tickets
  • Machu Picchu entrance ticket
  • Guided visit to Machu Picchu
  • Salkantay Trail ticket
  • Duffel Service during the trek: 7 Kilograms or 16 pounds
  • First Aid equipment
  • Emergency Oxygen Bottle
  • Important
  • Horses and mules will carry the heavy gear (tents, cooking equipment, food, etc). If you are considering bringing some photography equipment or other heavy accessories, or just simply don't want to carry anything, please request additional Duffel Service to carry up to 10kg per load, this way you will freely enjoy the hike. (This is highly recommended if you have never hiked over 10000 feet). Cooks handle all the kitchen chores.
  • Not Included:
  • Air flights (International or Domestic)
  • Special ticket to HuaynaPicchu
  • Accommodation in Cusco
  • Sleeping Bag
  • Travel Insurance
  • Personal trekking gear
  • Tips and gratuities.
  • Optionals:
  • Additional Duffel Service (up to 10 kg.): USD 70.00
  • Sleeping Bag rental USD $25.00. All sleeping bags are laundered between each trek. Please request this rental in advance.
NOTE: We will exercise best efforts to book hotels per the itinerary, however, in busy seasons we may be forced to offer substitutes of same category. We will endeavour to confirm final hotel bookings as soon as possible.

Salkantay 4-day Testimonials

N Kim

San Francisco, USA

The 4-day express Salkantay Trek delivers everything promised with expert efficiency! Having hiked extensively in the Andes, I appreciated how this itinerary is organized. The guide was great, camping was comfortable, food was excellent, and ending with the magic of Machu Picchu created the perfect adventure narrative.

H White

San Diego, CA

We chose the 4-day express Salkantay Trek because of limited vacation time, and it exceeded all expectations! The highlight was undoubtedly the Cocalmayo Hot Springs—arriving there after conquering Salkantay Pass created the perfect contrast between physical challenge and natural reward. The therapeutic properties of the mineral waters prepared our bodies for the remaining journey. We appreciated how the transportation allowed us to experience different ecosystems within a single day—from glacial peaks to lush thermal springs. Our guide was knowledgeable about local flora and Inca history. The final Machu Picchu visit felt wonderfully earned after our journey. Thank you Salkantay Team!

T Barnes

Seattle, USA

The four day Salkantay trek was a varied, difficult and rewarding experience. We started with a two day trek up to the Salkantay pass, up a grueling path known as the 'gringo killer' to reach 4600m. We then went down the valley into the rain forest, with an immensely refreshing dip into hot springs. A few (or a few too many) celebratory drinks we had that night, but luckily we started the next day with exhilarating zip lining across the valley rather than any hard treking. We then followed the train tracks into Aguas Calientes, with a refreshing dip into the icy cold river along the way. The food was great - difficult to believe it was camp food at times, and our guide was both friendly and very knowledgable. Overall it was a once in a life time experience, and I would recommend it highly for anyone not afraid to push themselves a bit for a rewarding trek.

M Gonzalez

Barcelona, Spain

As a solo female traveler and photographer, this 4-day express Salkantay Trek gave me exactly what I needed. Having spent a week in Cusco already, I was well-acclimatized and ready for Salkantay's challenges. The absolute highlight was capturing sunset at Cocalmayo Hot Springs—the golden light illuminating steam rising from the pools against mountain backdrops created images impossible with standard itineraries. Our small group became bonded through the shared challenge of Salkantay Pass and the communal relaxation in the thermal waters. The guide's knowledge of optimal photography locations throughout the trek was impressive. Perfect balance of adventure and efficiency.

R Patel

San Jose, CA

The 4-day express Salkantay Trek perfectly balances time efficiency with authentic experience. After researching many options, I chose this itinerary specifically for its smart use of transportation and the enhanced Cocalmayo Hot Springs visit. The springs proved to be the unexpected highlight of my entire Peru journey! After the demanding ascent and descent of Salkantay Pass, soaking in those thermal pools felt like discovering a secret paradise. The camping was comfortable, and meals were surprisingly varied and delicious. I will recommend this company to my friends and family, Thanks.

Common Questions About the 4-day Salkantay Trek | Salkantay Express Trek to Machu Picchu .

The 4-day Salkantay Trek is considered moderately challenging, You'll be hiking 7-8 hours daily across varying terrains, reaching altitudes of 4,600 meters (15,100 feet) at Abra Salkantay pass. This trek is more challenging than the Classic Inca Trail due to steeper ascents and higher elevation. While previous trekking experience isn't mandatory, we strongly recommend establishing a fitness routine 2-3 months before your journey. Regular cardio, leg-strengthening exercises, and practice hikes with a loaded daypack will make your Andean adventure much more enjoyable.

The Salkantay Trek's unique position crossing multiple microclimates means you'll experience dramatic weather variations in a single day! During dry season (May-September), expect cold mornings (possibly below freezing at Salkantay Pass), pleasant daytime temperatures, and chilly nights. The rainy season (November-March) brings afternoon showers and muddier trails, especially as you descend into the cloud forest. Regardless of when you trek, always prepare with layered clothing—thermal base layers, quick-dry hiking clothes, a quality waterproof jacket, and warm accessories for evenings. The mountain weather can change rapidly, so having options to adjust your comfort level throughout the day is essential for an enjoyable trek.

Our 4-day Salkantay Trek offers comfortable camping accommodations for the first two nights at Soraypampa and Chaullay, with a cozy hotel stay in Aguas Calientes on the third night. At each campsite, our team sets up quality camping tents appropriate for high-altitude conditions, plus a separate dining tent for meals. We provide thick air sleeping mats for insulation and comfort, though we recommend adding a sleeping bag rental if you don't bring your own. Each morning, you'll receive a clean towel and hot water for personal hygiene. The campsites have basic facilities with cold-water showers, and hot water options available for an additional local fee that supports the communities.

Proper acclimatization is crucial for your Salkantay Trek experience since you'll reach 4,600 meters (15,100 feet) at Salkantay Pass! We strongly recommend arriving in Cusco 2-3 days before your trek begins. This gives your body time to adjust to the initial altitude of Cusco (3,400m). During these days, stay hydrated, limit alcohol, eat lightly, and take gentle walks around the city. Our trek design also helps with acclimatization—starting at Mollepata (3,600m) and gradually ascending to Soraypampa (3,900m) on Day 1 before tackling the pass on Day 2. Our experienced guides monitor everyone's condition and carry oxygen cylinders for emergencies. Remember to communicate any symptoms immediately—prevention is always best!

Our 4-day Salkantay Trek features an amazing culinary experience with our skilled mountain chefs preparing authentic Peruvian dishes using fresh, local ingredients! Breakfasts are hearty and energizing—typically including eggs, pancakes, oatmeal, fresh fruits, and coca tea to help with altitude. Lunches and dinners include traditional Andean specialties like quinoa soup, lomo saltado (stir-fried beef), trout, and various potato dishes (Peru has over 4,000 varieties!). We also provide afternoon tea time with snacks to recharge during your trek. Vegetarian, vegan, and special dietary meals are available. All meals are prepared with proper hygiene and served in our comfortable dining tent, creating a wonderful social atmosphere after each day's adventure.

For your 4-day Salkantay Trek adventure through multiple microclimates, pack smartly with layered clothing! Essential gear includes: a good daypack (30-40L), broken-in hiking boots with ankle support, thermal base layers, quick-dry pants/shirts, a warm fleece, down jacket, waterproof rain jacket and pants, warm hat and gloves, sun hat, hiking socks (3-4 pairs), and comfortable evening clothes. Don't forget a headlamp, sunscreen (SPF 50+), insect repellent (essential for lower elevations), personal medications, water purification tablets, basic toiletries, and a quick-dry towel. Consider renting our sleeping bags and trekking poles to reduce luggage weight. Remember your camera, portable charger, and some cash for hot showers or additional purchases in local communities!

Our support team of experienced muleteers with their sturdy mules are truly the heroes of your 4-day Salkantay Trek adventure! These incredible local team members handle all camping equipment, food supplies, and cooking gear—allowing you to trek with just your daypack carrying personal essentials. They'll depart early each morning to ensure camp is fully set up when you arrive at day's end. For those concerned about the physical demands, we offer additional duffel services ($70 for 10kg) to carry your personal items, and even saddle horses for emergency assistance. Our team members are from nearby Andean communities and possess invaluable knowledge of the routes and mountain conditions. We ensure fair treatment and proper working conditions for all support staff—they're an integral part of your authentic Salkantay experience!

The ideal time for your 4-day Salkantay Trek adventure is during the dry season from May to September when clear skies provide spectacular views of the snow-capped Salkantay Mountain (6,271m) and surrounding Andean landscapes. June through August offers the most reliable weather but also brings more trekkers. Consider the 'shoulder months' of April/May or September/October for fewer crowds while still enjoying relatively stable conditions. The rainy season (November-March) transforms the landscape with lush greenery and fewer tourists, but comes with afternoon showers, muddier trails, and occasional fog that may obscure mountain views. February is typically avoided as the wettest month when the Inca Trail closes.

The 4-day Salkantay Trek offers a different experience from the Classic Inca Trail while still culminating at Machu Picchu! The Salkantay route traverses more diverse ecosystems—from high alpine terrain at 4,600m to cloud forest—and features dramatic views of Salkantay Mountain (6,271m). Unlike the Inca Trail with its ancient stone paths and numerous archaeological sites, Salkantay showcases raw natural landscapes and fewer ruins. Practically speaking, Salkantay tickets are more readily available, it's less crowded, more challenging physically, reaches higher altitudes, and offers a more rugged, off-the-beaten-path adventure. You'll also experience authentic interactions with remote Andean communities rarely encountered on the Inca Trail. Both routes are incredible—Salkantay simply emphasizes wilderness immersion over historical exploration

Your safety is our absolute priority throughout the 4-day Salkantay Trek adventure. Our comprehensive safety system includes professional licensed guides trained in wilderness first aid and mountain rescue techniques. Every group travels with a complete first aid kit and oxygen cylinders for altitude-related emergencies. Our guides closely monitor weather conditions adjusting the pace as needed. Before departure, we conduct a thorough briefing covering safety protocols, proper acclimatization, and what to do if you experience difficulties. In case of serious emergencies, we have evacuation procedures using saddle horses for transport to access points where medical assistance can be reached. Our team's experience navigating these routes ensures you can focus on enjoying this magnificent journey with peace of mind!

Salkantay Mountain Trek
Salkantay Mountain Trek
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2026 Package Price

Four Days Salkantay + Humantay to Machu Picchu

$639$598

Per adult double occupancy

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Machu Picchu ticket included
Student Discount-$30

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