How difficult is the Salkantay Trek?

Moderate to challenging; good physical condition is required.

What is the highest altitude?

Apachata Pass at 4,650 meters (15,255 ft).

Do I need permits like the Inca Trail?

No special trekking permits are required (only Machu Picchu entrance ticket).

Can I add Huayna Picchu?

Yes, but it must be booked in advance due to limited availability.

What is the best time to do this trek?

Dry season from May to September offers the best conditions.

Salkantay Trek 4 Days to Machu Picchu | Tours Daniel | Professional Tour Operator in Peru

Transportation
Van, Train
Group Size
Small Group
Maximum Altitude
6271 mals
Departure from
Cusco
Guiding method
English, Spanish
Duration
4 Days
Meals
All included

Challenge yourself on one of the most spectacular alternative routes to Machu Picchu with the legendary Salkantay Trek.

This 4-day adventure takes you from the high Andes near Cusco across dramatic mountain passes beneath the majestic Salkantay, descending into lush cloud forest before arriving at the Lost City of the Incas.

Perfect for travelers seeking fewer crowds, breathtaking scenery, and a powerful physical challenge combined with cultural discovery.

Highlights

Apachata Pass Crossing (4,650 m) – Stunning Andean summit views.
Humantay & Salkantay Landscapes – Glacial peaks and turquoise lakes.
Diverse Ecosystems – From high-altitude mountains to tropical valleys.
Llaqtapata Inca Site Viewpoint – Unique Machu Picchu perspective.
Grand Finale at Machu Picchu – Guided exploration of the citadel.

Day 01 :

Cusco – Soraypampa – Apachata Pass – Salkantay Lake – Huayracmachay

Early morning departure from Cusco toward the trailhead near Soraypampa.

Begin trekking through wide Andean valleys surrounded by snow-capped peaks. Gradually ascend toward the Apachata Pass (4,650 m / 15,255 ft), the highest point of the trek. From the summit, enjoy breathtaking views of the towering Salkantay Mountain.

After crossing the pass, descend toward the spectacular turquoise Salkantay Lake (optional short hike depending on schedule) before continuing to Huayracmachay camp.

Dinner and overnight at campsite.

Day 02 :

Huayracmachay – Chaullay – La Playa

Wake to crisp mountain air and begin descending from the high Andes into warmer climates.

The landscape dramatically transforms as you enter the cloud forest zone. Walk along lush trails surrounded by orchids, waterfalls, and tropical vegetation.

Pass through Chaullay village and continue toward La Playa, a fertile valley known for coffee, bananas, and passion fruit plantations.

Dinner and overnight at campsite or basic lodge.

Day 03 :

La Playa – Llaqtapata – Hidroelectrica – Aguas Calientes

After breakfast, begin an uphill hike toward the archaeological site of Llaqtapata. From this unique viewpoint, enjoy a rare and distant perspective of Machu Picchu nestled among green peaks — a rewarding preview of tomorrow’s destination.

Descend toward the Hidroelectrica station and follow the scenic railway track along the Urubamba River to Aguas Calientes.

Check into your hotel and enjoy a well-deserved rest. Optional visit to the town’s hot springs.

Overnight in Aguas Calientes.

Day 04 :

Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu – Cusco

Wake early and take the first shuttle bus up to Machu Picchu to witness the sunrise over the citadel.

Enjoy a guided tour exploring its most important sectors: agricultural terraces, temples, ceremonial plazas, and sacred stone structures. Learn about Inca engineering, astronomy, and daily life in this extraordinary sanctuary.

After the tour, return to Aguas Calientes for lunch (optional), then board the train back to the Sacred Valley and transfer to Cusco.

Arrival in Cusco in the evening.