Distances and Altitudes Salkantay Trek along the trek to Machu Picchu

The Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu passes through breathtaking landscapes ranging from cloud forest to high mountains. Throughout the trek, there are breathtaking views of the second highest mountain in the Cusco region, known as Salkantay, whose name in Quechua means "wild mountain" and reaches an altitude of 20,574 feet (6,271 meters). This trek to Machu Picchu passes through little frequented areas, fusing cultural richness and traditions with the amazing diversity of flora and fauna that characterizes Peru. The experience takes place in the authentic Andes, providing ideal conditions to gain a unique perspective of life in the region.

Salkantay Trek Distances

distances and altitudes - Inca Trail to Machu Picchu
Distances and Altitudes Salkantay Trek along the trek to Machu Picchu
  • Day 1: Challakancha - Humantay Lake - Soraypampa sky campsite: 13 Km (8.08 miles)
  • Day 2: Soraypampa sky campsite to Collpapampa: 22 Km (13.67 miles)
  • Day 3: Collpapampa to La Playa: 16 Km (9.94 miles)
  • Day 4: La Playa to Aguas Calientes: 19 Km (11.81 miles)
  • Day 5: Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu: 4 Km (2.49 miles)

It is important to be prepared for weather changes, as the hike covers different altitudes and types of terrain. In addition, by passing through less traveled areas, participants have the opportunity to experience authentic Andean life and appreciate the unique flora and fauna of the region. The view of Salkantay, the second highest mountain in the Cusco area, adds an impressive element to this adventure.

salkantay pass - Inca Trail to Machu Picchu
The Salkantay Pass Altitude is 4600 msnm
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1 Cusco – Soraypampa
  • Starting Elevation “Mollepata: 2900 meters / 9,515ft
  • Campsite Elevation “Soraypampa: 3850 meters / 12,631ft
  • Considered : Moderate
  • The area : Andes
  • Walking distance: 13 km (approx.)
  • Estimated trekking time: 5 hours
  • Maximum altitude point: 3,850 m (approx.)
2 Soraypampa – Salkantay Pass - Collpapampa
  • Highest Elevation “Salkantay pass”: 4600 meters / 15090 ft
  • Campsite Elevation “Collpapampa”: 3000m / 9842ft
  • Considered: Challenge
  • The area: Andes, Salkantay Glaciar
  • Walking distance 22 km (approx.)
  • Estimated trekking time 9 hours (approx.)
3 Collpapampa – Lucmabamba
  • Starting Elevation “Collpapampa: 3000m / 9842ft
  • Campsite Elevation “Lucmabamba: 2000mt / 6561ft
  • Considered: Moderate
  • The area: Cloud Forest
  • Walking distance: 16 km (approx.)
  • Estimated trekking time: 6 hours
4 Lucmabamba - Hidroelectic - Aguas Calientes
  • Starting Elevation “Lucmabamba: 2000 meters / 6562 ft
  • Hotel Elevation “Aguas Calientes: 2050 meters / 6726 ft
  • Considered: Moderate
  • The area: Cloud Forest
  • Walking Distance: 15km / 9 miles
  • Estimated trekking time: 6 to 7 hours
5 Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu – Cusco
  • Machupicchu Inca City elevation: 7,972' (2,430 m)
  • Huaynapicchu sacred Mountain elevation: 8,924' (2,720 m)