Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu - 3-Day Short Adventure Tour

We’ll begin our adventure early with a hotel pickup around 3:00 a.m., followed by a scenic 3.5-hour drive in our private transport to Soraypampa (3,900 m / 12,795 ft) the starting point of the Salkantay Trek.

Upon arrival, we’ll enjoy a nourishing box breakfast while taking in the breathtaking Andean scenery. Then, we begin our uphill hike toward the Salkantay Pass (4,630 m / 15,190 ft), the highest point of the trek. Surrounded by towering snow-capped peaks, glaciers, and dramatic valleys, this is where you’ll truly feel the magic of the Andes.

After taking time to rest and absorb the majestic views, we’ll start a gradual descent to the archaeological site of Huayracmachay, where we’ll stop for a rejuvenating lunch in the heart of nature.

In the afternoon, we continue descending into the lush high jungle, where the landscape transforms into vibrant greenery and tropical microclimates. Expect stunning views and unique biodiversity along the way. Finally, we arrive at our first campsite in Chaullay (2,900 m / 9,514 ft), where a hearty dinner awaits and we’ll spend the night under the stars.

Meals: lunch and dinner.
Walking distance: 2 0km / 12.4 miles .
Difficulty: Moderate to Challenging
Overnight: “Andean Cabins” Chaullay (2,900 m / 9,514 ft).
Walking Time: 10 hours approx.
Starting elevation: 3900 m / 12,795 ft.
Maximum elevation: 4630 m /15,190 ft.
Climate: Cold or rainy at Abra Salkantay.

Day two of the Salkantay Trek 3 Days is one of the most scenic and diverse experiences of the entire journey. After enjoying a hearty breakfast prepared by our mountain chef, we begin our trek from Chaullay to La Playa (2,060 m / 6,759 ft). This section of the trail follows the lush Santa Teresa River Valley, where the Andean highlands gradually give way to the subtropical cloud forest.

As we hike, we’ll pass through traditional rural communities and fertile farmland. The route is full of life: banana, passion fruit, and avocado orchards line the trail, and we’ll also walk past organic coffee plantations renowned as some of the best in Peru and considered among the finest organic coffees in the world. This part of the Salkantay to Machu Picchu trek truly showcases the region’s unique biodiversity and culture.

From La Playa village, we continue by local transport to the Hidroelectrica train station (1,800 m / 5,906 ft). Here, a well-deserved lunch awaits us. This point marks the end of the railway line that runs from Cusco to Machu Picchu. Afterward, we hike alongside the railway tracks for about 3 hours until we reach Aguas Calientes (2,040 m / 6,693 ft), also known as Machu Picchu Town. The walk is a beautiful experience, passing through dense jungle foliage and following the Urubamba River, with stunning views of the mountains including the one that shelters the lost citadel of Machu Picchu.

Upon arrival in Aguas Calientes, we check into our hotel for a well-earned rest. In the evening, we’ll gather for a celebratory dinner with our guide and fellow trekkers, sharing stories and preparing for the ultimate highlight of the trek: visiting the Inca citadel of Machu Picchu on day three.

• Meals: Breakfast, hot water, lunch, and dinner.
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Total distance: 22 km / 13.6 miles
• Estimated walking time: 7 to 8 hours
• Maximum altitude: 2950 m / 9578 ft
• Accommodation: Machu Picchu village, Aguas Calientes (2040 m / 6693 feet).

The final day of the Salkantay Trek 3 Days is also the most unforgettable: the long-awaited visit to the magical Inca citadel of Machu Picchu. After an early breakfast at our hotel, we head to the bus station in Aguas Calientes for a 30-minute ride up the winding road to the entrance of Machu Picchu. Remember to carry your original passport, entrance ticket (included in the tour), and a valid student ID if you booked with a student discount.

Once past the control gate, your expert guide will lead you on an immersive tour of Machu Picchu, one of the New Seven Wonders of the World and Peru’s most iconic archaeological site. The visit follows Circuit 2 or Circuit 3 (depending on availability at the time of booking). We always aim for Circuit 2-A or 2-B, considered the most complete, as they include at least 17 of the main highlights. These include the upper panoramic viewpoint for the classic postcard photo, the lower platform, the Intihuatana (Sun Dial), the Temple of the Sun, the Sacred Plaza, and many more.

The guided tour lasts about 2 hours, during which your guide will share fascinating insights into the history, culture, and spirituality of the Inca civilization. After the visit, and in coordination with your guide, you’ll return by bus to Aguas Calientes. Lunch is not included today, so you’ll have free time to choose a restaurant in the town before boarding the train.

In the afternoon, we board the train to Ollantaytambo or Poroy (depending on availability and schedules). Upon arrival, private transport will be waiting to take you back to your hotel in Cusco bringing your Salkantay to Machu Picchu trek to a perfect conclusion.

• Meals: Breakfast at hotel.
• Difficulty: Easy
• Estimated tour time: 2 hours