Salkantay Treks
The Adventure Awaits

Salkantay Treks to Machu Picchu 3, 4 & 5-Day Treks from Cusco

Discover the most spectacular alternative route to Machu Picchu through snow-capped mountains, cloud forests, and ancient Inca trails. An unforgettable journey awaits.

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TripAdvisor Top Rated
Small Groups (max 12)
Eco-Friendly Travel
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Trek Highlights

The Salkantay Treks offers an unparalleled combination of natural beauty, cultural richness, and adventure.

Salkantay Pass (4,630m)

Cross the majestic snow-capped Salkantay mountain pass surrounded by glacial peaks and pristine landscapes.

Humantay Lake

Visit the stunning turquoise Humantay Lake sitting at the base of the glacier, a sight that takes your breath away.

Cloud Forest

Descend through lush tropical cloud forests filled with orchids, hummingbirds, and exotic wildlife.

Machu Picchu

Arrive at the legendary Inca citadel through the Sun Gate, the most dramatic entrance possible.

All Salkantay Treks

Browse our complete selection of Salkantay Treks experiences for every level and budget.

SALKANTAY TREK 4 DAYS-NO MACHUPICCHU TICKET & NO RETURN INCLUDED
SALKANTAY
SALKANTAY TREK 4 DAYS-NO MACHUPICCHU TICKET & NO RETURN INCLUDED
4-Day, 3-Night Trek
349 Reviews
Min. Alt. 3300 msnm
Max. Alt. 3300 msnm
3585 msnm
Cusco, Machu Picchu, Soraypampa

SALKANTAY TREK 4 DAYS – The Ultimate Adventure to Machu Picchu Our SALKANTAY TREK 4 DAYS is one of the most complete and unforgettable experiences for those s

Total Hiking Distance:
65 km (100 mi)
Meals:
4 B, 3 D, 3 L
Group Size:
12 persons
Overnight:
Hotel / Camp Lodge
Schedule:
Start (5:00) > End (15:00)
Advance booking:
3 Months
Trail Type:
Mountain trail
Transportation:
SALKANTAY TREK + LLACTAPATA TREK – 5 DAYS
SALKANTAY
SALKANTAY TREK + LLACTAPATA TREK – 5 DAYS
5-Day, 4-Night Adventure Trek
349 Reviews
Min. Alt. 3300 msnm
Max. Alt. 3300 msnm
3585 msnm
Cusco, Machu Picchu, Soraypampa

Please note: This Salkantay Trek package does not include Machu Picchu entrance tickets or return transportation to Cusco. You can confidently book the Salkanta

Total Hiking Distance:
65 km (100 mi)
Meals:
5 B, 4 D, 4 L
Group Size:
12 persons
Overnight:
Hotel / Camp Lodge
Schedule:
Start (5:00) > End (15:00)
Advance booking:
3 Months
Trail Type:
Mountain trail
Transportation:
SALKANTAY TREK AND INCA TRAIL TO MACHU PICCHU 6D – 5N
SALKANTAY
SALKANTAY TREK AND INCA TRAIL TO MACHU PICCHU 6D – 5N
6 DAYS - 5 NIGHTS TRIP
349 Reviews
Min. Alt. 3300 msnm
Max. Alt. 3300 msnm
3585 msnm
Cusco, Machu Picchu, Soraypampa

The Salkantay Trek and Inca Trail to Machu Picchu represents the ultimate combination for adventurers seeking breathtaking mountain trekking experiences. This e

Total Hiking Distance:
65 km (100 mi)
Meals:
6 B, 5 D, 5 L
Group Size:
12 persons
Overnight:
Hotel / Camp Lodge
Schedule:
Start (5:00) > End (15:00)
Advance booking:
3 Months
Trail Type:
Mountain trail
Transportation:
LLACTAPATA TREK A MACHU PICCHU 3D-2N
SALKANTAY
LLACTAPATA TREK A MACHU PICCHU 3D-2N
3 días
349 Reviews
Min. Alt. 3300 msnm
Max. Alt. 3300 msnm
3585 msnm
Cusco, Machu Picchu, Soraypampa

CAMINATA LLACTAPATA A MACHU PICCHU 3D-2N: Llactapata Trek es uno de los aspectos más destacados de Salkantay Trek y un camino Inca original que lo lleva al sit

Total Hiking Distance:
65 km (100 mi)
Meals:
B, D, L
Group Size:
12 persons
Overnight:
Hotel / Camp Lodge
Schedule:
Start (5:00) > End (15:00)
Advance booking:
3 Months
Trail Type:
Mountain trail
Transportation:
LLACTAPATA TREK TO MACHU PICCHU – 3 DAYS / 2 NIGHTS
SALKANTAY
LLACTAPATA TREK TO MACHU PICCHU – 3 DAYS / 2 NIGHTS
3 DAYS - 02 NIGHTS TRIP
349 Reviews
Min. Alt. 3300 msnm
Max. Alt. 3300 msnm
3585 msnm
Cusco, Machu Picchu, Soraypampa

Llactapata Trek 3 Days to Machu Picchu: A Unique Adventure Experience Llactapata Trek 3 Days to Machu Picchu is one of the newest and most exciting trekking opt

Total Hiking Distance:
65 km (100 mi)
Meals:
B, D, L
Group Size:
12 persons
Overnight:
Hotel / Camp Lodge
Schedule:
Start (5:00) > End (15:00)
Advance booking:
3 Months
Trail Type:
Mountain trail
Transportation:
New Salkantay Trek + Machu Picchu By Car 4 Days
SALKANTAY
New Salkantay Trek + Machu Picchu By Car 4 Days
4 DAYS
349 Reviews
Min. Alt. 3300 msnm
Max. Alt. 3300 msnm
3585 msnm
Cusco, Machu Picchu, Soraypampa

Due to the complete Salkantay trail route being restricted following natural phenomena that occurred on February 23, which damaged the section from HUAYRACMACHA

Total Hiking Distance:
65 km (100 mi)
Meals:
2 B, 2 D, 3 L
Group Size:
12 persons
Overnight:
Hotel / Camp Lodge
Schedule:
Start (5:00) > End (15:00)
Advance booking:
3 Months
Trail Type:
Mountain trail
Transportation:
New Salkantay Trek + Inca Jungle Trail 5 Days / 4 Nights
SALKANTAY
New Salkantay Trek + Inca Jungle Trail 5 Days / 4 Nights
5 Days
349 Reviews
Min. Alt. 3300 msnm
Max. Alt. 3300 msnm
3585 msnm
Cusco, Machu Picchu, Soraypampa

SALKANTAY TREK + INCA JUNGLE TRAIL 5 DAYS Due to natural phenomena that occurred on February 23rd, the complete Salkantay trail route is temporarily restricted.

Total Hiking Distance:
65 km (100 mi)
Meals:
B, D, L
Group Size:
12 persons
Overnight:
Hotel / Camp Lodge
Schedule:
Start (5:00) > End (15:00)
Advance booking:
3 Months
Trail Type:
Mountain trail
Transportation:
SALKANTAY TREK 5 DAYS TO MACHU PICCHU + LLACTAPATA TREK
SALKANTAY
SALKANTAY TREK 5 DAYS TO MACHU PICCHU + LLACTAPATA TREK
5-Day, 4-Night Trek
349 Reviews
Min. Alt. 3300 msnm
Max. Alt. 3300 msnm
3585 msnm
Cusco, Machu Picchu, Soraypampa

SALKANTAY TREK 5 DAYS – THE MOST COMPLETE ADVENTURE TO MACHU PICCHU WITH 2 NIGHTS IN SKY STAR CRYSTAL DOMES Experience the perfect blend of adventure, nature,

Total Hiking Distance:
65 km (100 mi)
Meals:
5 B, 4 D, 4 L
Group Size:
12 persons
Overnight:
Hotel / Camp Lodge
Schedule:
Start (5:00) > End (15:00)
Advance booking:
3 Months
Trail Type:
Mountain trail
Transportation:
SALKANTAY TREK 4 DAYS TO MACHU PICCHU VIA LLACTAPATA
SALKANTAY
SALKANTAY TREK 4 DAYS TO MACHU PICCHU VIA LLACTAPATA
4 DAYS - 3 NIGHTS
349 Reviews
Min. Alt. 3300 msnm
Max. Alt. 3300 msnm
3585 msnm
Cusco, Machu Picchu, Soraypampa

SALKANTAY TREK 4 DAYS TO MACHU PICCHU VIA LLACTAPATA The Salkantay Trek 4 Days to Machu Picchu via Llactapata is one of the best options for travelers who want

Total Hiking Distance:
65 km (100 mi)
Meals:
4 B, 3 D, 3 L
Group Size:
12 persons
Overnight:
Hotel / Camp Lodge
Schedule:
Start (5:00) > End (15:00)
Advance booking:
3 Months
Trail Type:
Mountain trail
Transportation:
SALKANTAY TREK 3 DAYS TO MACHU PICCHU
SALKANTAY
SALKANTAY TREK 3 DAYS TO MACHU PICCHU
3 DAYS - 2 NIGHTS ADVENTURE
349 Reviews
Min. Alt. 3300 msnm
Max. Alt. 3300 msnm
3585 msnm
Cusco, Machu Picchu, Soraypampa

SALKANTAY TREK 3 DAYS: The Ultimate Adventure for Experienced Mountain Enthusiasts The Salkantay Trek 3 Days is expertly crafted for seasoned adventurers seekin

Total Hiking Distance:
65 km (100 mi)
Meals:
3 B, 2 D, 2 L
Group Size:
12 persons
Overnight:
Hotel / Camp Lodge
Schedule:
Start (5:00) > End (15:00)
Advance booking:
3 Months
Trail Type:
Mountain trail
Transportation:
SALKANTAY TREK 2 DAYS & HUMANTAY LAKE
SALKANTAY
SALKANTAY TREK 2 DAYS & HUMANTAY LAKE
2 Days / 1 Night
349 Reviews
Min. Alt. 3300 msnm
Max. Alt. 3300 msnm
3585 msnm
Cusco, Machu Picchu, Soraypampa

Salkantay Trek 2 days & Humantay Lake – A Brief Yet Epic Andean Journey The Salkantay Trek 2 days is a short but unforgettable 2-day adventure, perfect fo

Total Hiking Distance:
65 km (100 mi)
Meals:
2 B, 1 D, 2 L
Group Size:
12 persons
Overnight:
Hotel / Camp Lodge
Schedule:
Start (5:00) > End (15:00)
Advance booking:
3 Months
Trail Type:
Mountain trail
Transportation:
HUMANTAY LAKE FULL DAY TOUR
SALKANTAY
HUMANTAY LAKE FULL DAY TOUR
FULL DAY TOUR
349 Reviews
Min. Alt. 3300 msnm
Max. Alt. 3300 msnm
3585 msnm
Cusco, Machu Picchu, Soraypampa

HUMANTAY LAKE: DISCOVER THE MAGIC OF TURQUOISE WATERS Humantay Lake stands as an unmissable destination, showcasing spectacular mountain scenery and delivering

Total Hiking Distance:
65 km (100 mi)
Meals:
01 B, D, 0 L
Group Size:
12 persons
Overnight:
Hotel / Camp Lodge
Schedule:
Start (5:00) > End (15:00)
Advance booking:
3 Months
Trail Type:
Mountain trail
Transportation:

Trek Details

Everything you need to know before embarking on the adventure of a lifetime.

Route

Mollepata — Soraypampa — Salkantay Pass — Santa Teresa — Aguas Calientes — Machu Picchu

Climate

Variable temperatures: -5°C at the pass to 25°C in the jungle. Rain season Nov–Mar.

Distance & Altitude

74 km total trek. Maximum altitude: 4,630m at Salkantay Pass. Moderate to challenging difficulty.

What's Included

Professional guides, camping gear, all meals, entrance tickets, train & bus transfers.

Best Season

April to October (dry season). Best months: May, June, and September.

Salkantay
Starting From
$520 USD
Book This Trek

Why Travel With Us?

We are dedicated and committed to our clients, to the environment, and to our fellow compatriots.

Horsemen

Our Dedicated Horsemen

Our skilled horsemen are local community members who have worked the mountain trails for generations. They ensure all equipment, food, and camping gear arrives safely at each campsite ahead of you.

  • Ethically treated horses with weight limits enforced
  • Fair wages and proper working conditions
  • Local families supported through every trek
  • Decades of experience navigating high-altitude terrain
Tour Guides

Expert Tour Guides

Our bilingual guides are certified professionals with deep knowledge of Inca history, Andean ecology, and mountain safety protocols.

  • Licensed by Peru's Ministry of Tourism
  • First-aid and wilderness rescue certified
  • Fluent in English and Spanish
  • Deep knowledge of local flora, fauna & culture
Cooks

Talented Trek Cooks

Our cooks transform fresh, local ingredients into gourmet meals at altitude. Expect hearty breakfasts, trail lunches, and multi-course dinners under the stars.

  • Professionally trained in culinary arts
  • Dietary restrictions accommodated
  • Fresh, locally-sourced ingredients daily
  • Highest hygiene standards maintained
The Food

The Food Experience

Fuel your trek with Peru's world-famous cuisine. From quinoa soups to fresh trout, every meal is a celebration of Andean gastronomy.

  • 3 full meals + snacks & hot drinks daily
  • Vegetarian, vegan & gluten-free options
  • Traditional Peruvian & international fusion
  • Afternoon tea with pancakes at camp
Private Campsite

Private Campsites

Unlike other operators, we maintain our own exclusive campsites along the Salkantay route, ensuring privacy, cleanliness, and the best locations with stunning views.

  • Exclusive campsites with mountain views
  • Clean toilet & shower facilities
  • Dining tents with tables and chairs
  • Sheltered from wind with flat ground

Customized Peru Tour Experts

Experience Peru on your terms with expertly crafted, fully customizable tours designed for a truly unique and seamless journey.

Customize My Trip
Avoid the Crowds

Optimized itineraries let you explore beyond the usual tourist spots for a more authentic adventure.

Authentic Experiences

Connect with local culture and hidden gems that most travelers never get to see.

Total Flexibility

Customize your trip to match your style, budget, and preferences — from luxury to backpacker.

24/7 Support

Our dedicated team is always available to assist you before, during, and after your adventure.

Our Team

Passionate professionals who live and breathe adventure travel in the heart of the Andes.

Carlos
David Quispe
Founder & Lead Guide

Born in Cusco with 20+ years of trekking experience. Carlos founded our company with a mission to share Peru's beauty responsibly.

Carlos
David Quispe
Founder & Lead Guide

Born in Cusco with 20+ years of trekking experience. Carlos founded our company with a mission to share Peru's beauty responsibly.

Carlos
David Quispe
Founder & Lead Guide

Born in Cusco with 20+ years of trekking experience. Carlos founded our company with a mission to share Peru's beauty responsibly.

Carlos
David Quispe
Founder & Lead Guide

Born in Cusco with 20+ years of trekking experience. Carlos founded our company with a mission to share Peru's beauty responsibly.

What Our Trekkers Say

Real reviews from verified travelers on Google & TripAdvisor

Frequently Asked Questions

Can't find your answer here? Our team is always happy to help with any questions you may have.

Contact Us

The Salkantay Trek is a popular multi-day hiking route in Peru that leads from the Andes to Machu Picchu. It crosses the Salkantay Pass (4,630 m / 15,190 ft), passes stunning landscapes like Humantay Lagoon, and ends at the iconic Inca citadel, offering a more adventurous and less crowded alternative to the Classic Inca Trail.

It is considered challenging due to high altitude, long daily distances (up to 20-25 km on some days), and significant elevation gains/losses. The trek requires good physical fitness, but it is not technical—no climbing gear is needed. Most fit hikers can complete it with proper preparation and acclimatization.

The dry season from April to October (especially May, June, September, and October) offers the best weather, with clearer skies, less rain, and more stable trail conditions. Peak crowds occur in June–August, while shoulder months provide fewer people and still good weather.

No, unlike the Classic Inca Trail, the Salkantay Trek does not require a government permit or have daily limits. You can book with a tour operator even at the last minute, though advance reservations are recommended for the best groups and availability.

The most common version is 5 days and 4 nights (or sometimes 4 days/3 nights), starting near Mollepata or Cusco and finishing in Aguas Calientes before visiting Machu Picchu on the final day.

The highest point is Salkantay Pass at approximately 4,630 meters (15,190 ft). Altitude sickness is a real risk, so acclimatizing in Cusco for 2–3 days beforehand is essential. Coca leaves, hydration, and slow pacing help manage symptoms.

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