SALKANTAY TREK TO MACHU PICCHU 4D/3N
Duration:
4D/3N
Difficulty:
Challenging
Group Size:
Up to 10 people
Departures:
Daily
Service Type:
Group / Private
Max Altitude:
15,190 ft
The Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu 4D/3N combines breathtaking mountain landscapes, the spectacular Salkantay Pass at 4,630 m / 15,190 ft, and the warmer, greener landscapes of the lower valleys as you make your way to Machu Picchu. Along the route, you will visit Humantay Lake, cross different ecosystems, and spend 2 nights in comfortable Sky Domes and 1 night in a 3-star hotel in Aguas Calientes.
Due to the geography of the route, cell phone coverage is limited and intermittent along much of the trek, especially at higher elevations. Connectivity gradually improves as you descend into the valleys and is more stable in populated areas such as Santa Teresa, Hidroelectrica, and Aguas Calientes. Wi-Fi is also not consistently available during the trek.
The price shown is per person for shared service with accommodation in a double room. If you prefer private service or a single room, please contact us for the corresponding rates.
ITINERARY
DAY 1: CUSCO - CHALLACANCHA - HUMANTAY LAKE - SORAYPAMPA
Your 4-day Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu begins early. We will pick you up from your hotel in Cusco at 4:30 a.m. and travel to Mollepata, located at 2,900 m / 9,514 ft, a journey of approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes. Upon arrival, we will stop for breakfast at a local restaurant. Breakfast is not included. After breakfast, we will continue to Challacancha, where we will begin our hike. Once we arrive, you will hand over your 7 kg duffel bag to our team of porters, horsemen, and horses, who will transport your belongings, food, equipment, supplies, and other items needed for the trek.
The first 25 minutes of the hike will be a gentle uphill walk to the Water Canal, where we will enjoy panoramic views of the impressive snow-capped mountains of Humantay and Salkantay. We will then continue hiking toward Soraypampa, our campsite, located at 3,900 m / 12,795 ft, near the imposing Salkantay Mountain. Upon reaching Soraypampa, we will enjoy a delicious lunch.
After lunch, we will hike to Humantay Lake, located at 4,200 m / 13,780 ft, where we will have time to explore the surroundings and enjoy the breathtaking natural scenery. Finally, we will return to Soraypampa, where we will spend the night at our campsite.
Accommodation: Sky Dome Glamping.
Hiking time: approximately 6 hours.
Difficulty: Moderate.
Meals included: Lunch and dinner.
DAY 2: SORAYPAMPA – SALKANTAY PASS – CHAULLAY
After breakfast, we will begin our hike at approximately 6:30 a.m. Today, we will make an approximately 4-hour ascent to reach the highest point of the route, the Salkantay Pass, located at 4,630 m / 15,190 ft, between the impressive snow-capped mountains of Salkantay on the right and Tucarrhuay on the left. From this point, we will enjoy spectacular panoramic views of both mountains. Depending on weather conditions, there may be snow in this area. Salkantay Peak is the second-highest peak in the Cusco region and is considered a sacred mountain in Andean mythology. It is known as an Apu, a sacred mountain in Andean tradition. Traditional rituals such as the K’intu, an offering of three coca leaves to express gratitude and ask for blessings, are still practiced today. Our guide will share this tradition with you.
After enjoying the scenery and taking a group photo, we will descend about 7 km (4.35 miles) to Huacarmachay, located at 3,850 m / 12,631 ft, where our team will prepare and serve a freshly made Andean meal while we enjoy a valley surrounded by stunning snow-capped landscapes. After lunch, we will continue descending into the warmer, greener landscapes of the region. We will cover the 8 kilometers (4.97 miles) in approximately three hours at a normal pace. During the descent, we will witness a dramatic change in the landscape as the temperature gradually becomes warmer, while our guide explains the different species of plants, animals, and birds, many of which are native to the region.
We will arrive at our second campsite in Chaullay, located at 2,900 m / 9,514 ft, where we will enjoy a delicious dinner and spend the night in the Sky Dome Small, a 3-meter-diameter dome designed exclusively for sleeping.
Accommodation: Sky Dome Small Glamping.
Hiking time: approximately 9 hours.
Difficulty: Challenging.
Meals included: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
DAY 3: CHAULLAY – HIDROELÉCTRICA – AGUAS CALIENTES
At 6:00 a.m., after enjoying a cup of coffee, we will serve you a delicious breakfast. This third day of the Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu is less demanding than the previous day. We will hike from Chaullay through the Santa Teresa Valley, passing by the Lluscamayo River, Loreta, and La Playa Sahuayaco, on a route that takes approximately 6 hours. The trail is dotted with several waterfalls and passes through a region known for its avocado, banana, and coffee plantations. Hikers can often spot the iconic Andean cock-of-the-rock, Peru’s national bird, in this area.
We will then continue to Hidroeléctrica, located at 1,800 m / 5,906 ft, where we will enjoy lunch prepared and served by our team. After lunch, we will walk for approximately 3 hours along the railway line to Aguas Calientes, located at 2,040 m / 6,693 ft. Upon arrival, we will check into a 3-star hotel, where we will spend the night. In the evening, we will enjoy a delicious dinner at a local restaurant.
Accommodation: 3-star hotel in Aguas Calientes.
Hiking time: approximately 9 hours.
Difficulty: Challenging.
Meals included: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
DAY 4: AGUAS CALIENTES - MACHU PICCHU - CUSCO
At 5:00 a.m., after breakfast at your hotel, we will begin our approximately 2-hour uphill hike to Machu Picchu, located at 2,430 m / 7,972 ft. Upon entering the citadel, you will enjoy a guided tour of approximately 2 hours. Then, you will have free time to explore on your own and, if you have booked an additional entrance such as Huayna Picchu, our guide will indicate the entrance and provide you with the necessary recommendations to climb on your own.
Then, we will walk back to Aguas Calientes along the same route. There, you will have free time to have lunch or explore the town on your own.
In the afternoon, you will board the Expedition train to Ollantaytambo, with a journey of approximately 2 hours, departing at 2:55 p.m. or 3:20 p.m. However, the departure time may vary depending on train availability when you make your reservation with us. Upon arrival at the Ollantaytambo train station, our driver will be waiting for you at the exit. From there, you will continue to Cusco in our private vehicle, with a journey of approximately 2 hours, arriving at your hotel at around 7:30 p.m.
Hiking time: approximately 4 hours.
Difficulty: Moderate.
Meals included: Breakfast at your hotel.
***We always prioritize Circuit 2 when booking your entrance to Machu Picchu. However, availability depends on the date of your reservation. If Circuit 2 is not available at the time of booking, we will reserve another available circuit, such as Circuit 1 or Circuit 3. We recommend booking in advance.
***The return Expedition Train schedule is subject to availability and will depend on how far in advance you book the trip with us.
WHAT’S INCLUDED?
INCLUDED:
- Hotel pickup in Cusco.
- Tourist transportation.
- Entrance fees included in the itinerary.
- Entrance ticket to Machu Picchu.
- Expedition train to Ollantaytambo.
- English-and Spanish-speaking guide.
- Professional chef.
- Dining equipment.
- Duffel bag for personal belongings.
- Porters, horsemen and horses.
- 7 kg of personal belongings transported.
- Daily coca tea & afternoon tea.
- 2 nights in Sky Dome glamping.
- 1 night in a 3-star hotel (double room).
- 3 breakfasts, 3 lunches, and 3 dinners.
- Filtered and boiled water during the hike.
- Transfer back to Cusco.
- First-aid kit and emergency oxygen.
- All applicable taxes.
NOT INCLUDED:
- Sleeping bag: US$25 for the entire trek.
- Walking poles: US$25 per pair, entire trek.
- Huayna Picchu entrance: US$75 (optional).
- Hidroeléctrica Train – Optional.
- Bus to Machu Picchu – Optional.
- Day 1 breakfast.
- Lunch and dinner on Day 4.
- Extra expenses.
- Tips for staff (optional).
WHY CHOOSE CALLANGA FAMILY EXPLORERS?
Because behind every journey is a family, a story, and a deep love for Peru. Callanga Family Explorers is a local, family-owned travel company from Cusco, Peru, born from a lifelong connection to the people, landscapes, culture, and communities of our region. Our roots go back to Callanga, a remote community in Cusco where our founder was born and raised, learn more about our story.
We believe traveling through Peru should be about more than visiting extraordinary places. It should be about meeting its people, discovering its culture, appreciating its landscapes, and creating memories that have meaning.
When you travel with us, you are not simply booking a tour. You are choosing to travel with a local family that is proud of its roots and committed to sharing the authentic spirit of Peru with you. We combine personalized service, professional experience, and carefully designed journeys with a genuine commitment to responsible tourism.
OUR PROFESSIONAL TOUR GUIDES
Our professional tour guides have extensive experience and knowledge. They will accompany you throughout your journey, sharing valuable insights into history, culture, nature, and local traditions while ensuring you enjoy a safe, comfortable, and memorable experience.
SMALL GROUPS
At Callanga Family Explorers, we believe that smaller groups create more meaningful travel experiences. To ensure personalized service, greater comfort, and a closer connection with our guides, our shared tour groups are limited to a maximum of 10 travelers. This allows us to provide a more flexible, enjoyable, and authentic experience, while giving every guest the attention and care they deserve throughout their journey.
OUR COMMUNITY & ENVIRONMENTAL PROJECTS
We believe tourism can leave something positive behind. That is why part of the revenue from our tours supports community and environmental initiatives, including education support for children, environmental clean-up campaigns, reforestation, and projects that help care for the communities and landscapes of Cusco.
For us, responsible tourism is not simply something we talk about. It is something we put into action, year after year. Discover our social and environmental projects.
Every time you choose to travel with Callanga Family Explorers, you become part of that story. Your journey supports a local family business while also contributing to initiatives that give back to communities and help protect the natural and cultural heritage of Peru.
Travel with us, discover Peru, and be part of something meaningful.
IMPORTANT INFORMATION
Please take a moment to review the information below, as it provides helpful details about our services and answers many common questions.
BRIEFING IN CUSCO
One day before starting the Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu, you will have a short briefing at your hotel in Cusco at 6:00 p.m. During this meeting, your guide will explain the itinerary, schedules, and all the important details about the trek. You will also have the opportunity to ask any questions and receive recommendations to help you enjoy the experience. During the briefing, your guide will also provide you with a duffel bag for your personal belongings, which will be transported during the trek according to the 7 kg (15 lbs) weight limit. If you have any outstanding balance for your reservation, you may also take this opportunity to make the payment.
PAYMENT METHODS
To confirm your reservation, we offer two secure payment methods. A 40% deposit of the total trek cost is required to secure your reservation.
Credit & Debit Card: You can pay with any credit or debit card. We will send you a secure, personalized Izipay payment link for the applicable amount, where you can enter your card details and complete your payment quickly and securely.
PayPal: You can make your payment through PayPal using our account info@callangafamilyexplorers.com. If you prefer, we can also send a PayPal payment request to your email address. Your reservation will be confirmed once the required deposit has been received.
Payment Processing Fee: Payment providers apply a 6% processing fee to the payment amount, which is deducted from the amount received. For the initial 40% deposit, this fee will be fully covered by Callanga Family Explorers, so you will not be charged any additional amount for this fee.
***Before confirming your reservation, please also send us a clear copy of each participant’s passport at the time of booking.
WHAT ABOUT THE REMAINING BALANCE?
To avoid credit card processing fees, you may pay the remaining balance in cash (US dollars only) during your briefing in Cusco. If you prefer to pay in cash, you can bring US dollars with you or withdraw cash in Cusco. Please note that ATM withdrawals may be subject to fees depending on your bank and the ATM used.
If you prefer, you may also pay the remaining balance by credit or debit card. In this case, a 6% processing fee will apply to the amount paid to cover the fees charged by the payment providers.
CAN I CHANGE MY TRAVEL DATE?
Yes, you can request to change your travel date. Date changes are subject to the applicable conditions and penalties, depending on how far in advance the request is made.
For full details, please see our Terms & Conditions.
DO I NEED MY ORIGINAL PASSPORT?
Yes. You must carry your original passport throughout the entire trip, as it will be required to board the train, enter Machu Picchu, check in at your hotel, and for other services included in your reservation. It is important that your passport details match the information provided when making your reservation.
If you made your reservation with one passport and later renewed it, you must bring both passports: your previous passport and your new passport, so the reservation information can be verified against your identity.
HUAYNA PICCHU - OPTIONAL
The hike to Huayna Picchu Mountain is optional and takes place after the guided visit to Machu Picchu. Huayna Picchu is located at 2,720 m / 8,923 ft, and the hike up and down takes approximately 2 to 3 hours, depending on each person’s pace.
Entrance to Huayna Picchu costs an additional US$75 per person and is subject to availability, so please let us know at the time of booking if you would like to include this activity. If you would like a guide during the hike to Huayna Picchu, we can also arrange one for an additional fee.
TRAIN FROM HIDROELÉCTRICA TO AGUAS CALIENTES – OPTIONAL
On Day 3 of the trek, we will walk from Hidroeléctrica to Aguas Calientes, a journey of approximately 3 hours. If you prefer to take the train for this section, you can request this additional option. The train journey takes approximately 30 minutes and costs an additional USD 40 per person. Train tickets are subject to availability at the time of booking or when you request this option.
BUS FROM AGUAS CALIENTES TO MACHU PICCHU – OPTIONAL
The bus ticket from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu on Day 4 is optional. If you prefer not to hike for approximately 2 hours uphill and 2 hours downhill, you can choose to take the bus.
The cost is US$12 per person per way, or US$24 per person round trip. You can purchase only the uphill ticket, only the downhill ticket, or a round-trip ticket, according to your preference.
You can purchase the ticket directly in Aguas Calientes one day before or on the same day as your visit to Machu Picchu. You can also ask us to include the round-trip bus tickets in your reservation. There is no requirement to purchase them in advance.
WHAT ABOUT ALTITUDE SICKNESS?
Most travelers adapt well to high altitudes when they allow enough time to acclimatize before starting the trek. Since this trek reaches 4,630 m / 15,190 ft at Salkantay Pass, proper acclimatization is important, especially if you are not accustomed to high elevations.
We recommend spending at least 2-3 days acclimatizing in Cusco before starting the trek. Staying hydrated, walking at a comfortable pace, and allowing your body time to adjust can help you better adapt to the altitude.
WHAT IS THE WEATHER LIKE DURING THE TREK?
Weather conditions along the Salkantay route can vary considerably due to changes in altitude. You may experience sunny or cloudy skies, cold temperatures, strong winds, and occasional rainfall.
At Salkantay Pass, at 4,630 m / 15,190 ft, temperatures can be very cold, with strong winds and possible snow. As you descend toward Chaullay, Hidroeléctrica, and Aguas Calientes, the weather becomes progressively warmer and more humid.
From November to April, rainfall is generally more frequent, although rain can occur at any time of the year. From May to October, the weather is generally drier, with sunny days but cold mornings and nights, especially at higher elevations.
WHAT ARE THE SKY DOME ACCOMMODATIONS LIKE?
Sky Domes are dome-style accommodations located along the Salkantay route. In Soraypampa, each dome measures approximately 6 meters in diameter and features beds, thick blankets, and transparent sections that allow you to enjoy the night sky and surrounding mountains.
In Chaullay, you will spend the night in the Sky Dome Small, a 3-meter-diameter dome designed exclusively for sleeping. The domes are equipped with thick blankets for greater comfort during the night. Hot water is provided through a solar water-heating system, depending on weather conditions.
You need to bring a sleeping bag for the overnight stay. We also use biodegradable materials and promote sustainable, responsible, and ethical tourism.
HOW IS DRINKING WATER PROVIDED DURING THE TREK?
We will provide filtered and boiled water throughout the trek, and you can refill your bottle at each meal. You only need to bring enough water for the first day; from then on, we will provide drinking water throughout the trek.
WHAT TYPE OF FOOD DO WE PROVIDE DURING THE TREK?
We provide nutritious and well-balanced meals served buffet-style, with generous portions to keep you energized throughout the trek. Our meals include freshly prepared Peruvian dishes such as soups, meats, rice, quinoa, and vegetables, as well as hot beverages.
We also provide vegetarian and gluten-free options at no additional cost. If you have any dietary preferences or restrictions, please let us know when making your reservation.
We provide boiled or filtered water for refilling your bottles, as well as light snacks such as fruit or cookies. If you would like additional snacks, you are welcome to bring your own.
DUFFEL BAG AND 7 KG LIMIT
During the briefing in Cusco, we will provide you with a duffel bag for your personal belongings. The maximum weight is strictly 7 kg and must not be exceeded.
This weight includes your sleeping bag. We recommend allowing approximately 2 kg for your sleeping bag and the remaining 5 kg for your other personal belongings.
The sleeping bag is not included. You may bring your own or rent one from us for US$25 for the entire 4-day Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu. If the total weight of your duffel bag exceeds 7 kg, the excess must be carried in your personal daypack.
ARE HORSES AND PORTERS USED DURING THE TREK?
Yes. We have porters, horsemen, and horses who transport food, cooking equipment, service supplies, and other items needed throughout the trek, as well as each passenger’s 7 kg of personal belongings. We prioritize animal welfare and never overload our horses.
TRAVEL INSURANCE
We recommend purchasing travel insurance before starting your trip to Peru. It is important to have a policy that provides coverage for medical expenses, accidents, and other unexpected situations that may arise during your trip. For a high-altitude trek, we also recommend checking that your insurance covers the activities you will be doing and provides emergency assistance.
ARE TREKKING POLES NECESSARY?
Trekking poles are highly recommended to provide greater stability and support during the trek, especially on uphill and downhill sections. They can also help reduce the impact on your knees during descents.
ARE TIPS MANDATORY?
No. At Callanga Family Explorers, we believe in rewarding our staff through fair wages and responsible working conditions. Our staff are paid fairly for their professionalism, dedication, and hard work.
If you feel that our team has exceeded your expectations and would like to show your appreciation, tips are always welcome but are never expected or mandatory. Any gratuity is entirely at your discretion and is greatly appreciated as a gesture of thanks for exceptional service.
PACKING LIST
-Sleeping bag.
-Trekking poles.
-Passport.
-Small backpack or daypack.
-Change of clothes.
-Warm clothing.
-Fleece or warm jacket.
-Rain jacket or poncho.
-Comfortable hiking shoes or trekking boots.
-Water bottle or reusable water container.
-Basic toiletries.
-Sunscreen.
-Insect repellent.
-Sun hat or cap.
-Sunglasses.
-Personal medications, if needed.
-Cash in Peruvian soles (PEN).
-Camera or phone.
-Small flashlight or headlamp.