Cusco,Soraypampa,Paucarcancha,Ollantaytambo,Machupicchu
- Time 3 Days / 2 Nights
- Tour Type Hike
- Altitude 3850 m.s.n.m.
- Place Cusco
- Difficulty Moderate
Trip Description
Embark on the thrilling adventure of one of Peru’s two most fascinating treks, the Salkantay Trek in just 3 days and 2 nights! This incredible journey is specially designed for those who are looking for an amazing experience, surrounded by breathtaking landscapes and great ecological diversity. During the trek, you will be able to visit the main attractions, such as the majestic snow-capped mountain of Salkantay and the Historic Sanctuary of Machu Picchu.
The Salkantay Trek offers an alternative route to reach the citadel of Machu Picchu, crossing the Vilcabamba mountain range and offering spectacular views, crystal clear lagoons of dazzling turquoise, impressive snow-capped peaks such as the Apu Salkantay and the Humantay lagoon, as well as rivers and subtropical areas of lush vegetation and abundant wildlife. Immerse yourself in the adventure of a lifetime in one of the wonders of the world!
Short itinerary
Day 01: Cusco – Soraypampa – Chaullay
The day begins with pick-up from your hotel, followed by a bus ride from Cusco to Soraypampa, where we meet the group and begin our trek to Chaullay camp. During this day, we will walk an average of 22 km on foot.
Day 02: Chaullay – La Playa – Santa Teresa – Hydroelectric – Aguas Calientes – Hotel
We will start the day with a delicious breakfast before starting our hike to Sahuayaco beach. After enjoying a comforting lunch, we will transfer to Hidroeléctrica and continue our hike to Aguas Calientes. There, we will enjoy dinner and spend the night in a local lodge. During this day, we will walk approximately 16 km on average.
Day 3: Machupicchu
Breakfast in lodging, bus to Machu Picchu, visit with tour guide in Machu Picchu, hike back to Aguas Calientes, final return by train and bus to Cusco city. End of the tour.
Places to visit and activities to do on the Inca Trail 3 days – 2 nights
| Day 1 | Day 2 | Day 3 | |
| Departure point | Cusco | Chaullay | Machu Picchu |
| Arrival point | Chaullay | Aguas Calientes | Cusco (Hotel) |
| Activities | Hike | Hike – Transfer to Santa Teresa | Visit Machu Picchu and return to Cuzco |
| Distance / duration | 19 Km. / 8-9 h. | 32 Km. / 10 h. | |
| Breakfast | |||
| Lunch | |||
| Dinner |
Complete Itinerary
Day 01: Cusco – Soraypampa – Abra Salkantay – Wayracpunko – ChaullayCusco (3, 400 masl):
Cusco (3, 400 masl): We will pick you up at your hotel at 2:00 am and drive to Soraypampa. The drive to Soraypampa will take approximately 3 hours, as it is the starting point of the trek. Once in Soraypampa, you will join the Salkantay group to enjoy breakfast.
Soraypampa (3,900 masl): We will enjoy a hot breakfast around 5:30 in the morning and begin our hike to the highest point of this route (4650m / 15200ft), which is located between two imposing mountains.
Abra Salkantay highest point (4,630 masl): During our hike, we will have the opportunity to appreciate in all its splendor the majesty of the Salkantay mountain. It is really impressive to contemplate the grandeur of nature and the magnificence of the divine creation that is shown to us.
Huayracpunku (4,000 masl): During our hike, we will have the opportunity to contemplate the imposing mountains of Salkantay and Humantay (Salkantay at 6271m / 20575ft and Humantay at 4120m / 13500ft). From the pass, we will enjoy breathtaking views of these snow-capped mountains, with the possibility of encountering a snowy landscape. Then, we will continue our descent through a beautiful cloud forest until we reach Huayracpunku, where we will stop to enjoy a delicious lunch.
Chaullay (2,800 masl): After enjoying a revitalizing lunch, we start hiking towards the jungle, with the objective of reaching our second campsite. A viable alternative to set up camp would be in Qolqampata, following the course of the Salkantay River. At this point, we will have the wonderful opportunity to delight ourselves with the impressive Andean landscape, in the same place where we have decided to set up our camp, at an altitude of approximately 2900 meters.
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
- Time: 9 Hours Approx.
- Distance: 19 kilometers Approx.
- Weather: Cold, Windy and Warm.
- Maximum Altitude: 4630 meters (20,671 feet) – 4,000 m (13,000 ft).
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Campsite: Chaullay
Day 02: Chaullay – La playa – Santa teresa – Hydroelectric – Aguas calientes – Hotel
Chaullay (2, 800 masl): We start our hike early, at 6:00 a.m., after breakfast. This day is special because we will be able to see a great variety of plants, such as flora, medicinal plants, esoteric plants and orchids. Then we will continue our tour to the following villages.
The beach (2,064 masl): We continue our advance and arrive at Collpa Pampa, a beautiful beach. Here we find some wonderful thermal baths that we can access and enjoy for an hour. Afterwards, we will continue our journey to the beach to enjoy a delicious lunch. We will take a break for about an hour and then continue our journey to Santa Teresa. For this part of the trip, we will take a local means of transportation in the area.
Hidroeléctrica (1,820 masl): After arriving in Santa Teresa, we will head towards Hidroeléctrica using another means of transportation. Once we arrive at our destination, we will be ready to start the last stage of our trip to Aguas Calientes.
Aguas Calientes (2,040 masl): From Hidroeléctrica, we will begin a hike of approximately 3 hours until we reach Aguas Calientes. After arriving, we will have a refreshing swim at the hotel, followed by dinner. We will spend the night in a cozy and comfortable hotel.
- Time: 9 hours, walking and by car.
- Distance: 32 kilometers Approx.
- Climate: Warm,
- Maximum Altitude: 2800 masl.
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Lodging: Aguas Calientes Hotel
- Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
DAY 3: MACHUPICCHU
Aguas Calientes (2,040 masl): We will wake up at 4:30 am and breakfast will be served at 5:00 am at the corresponding hotel.
Machu Picchu (2,430 masl): Afterwards, we will line up to take one of the first buses to Machu Picchu. Buses are assigned on a first-come, first-served basis and take approximately 25 to 30 minutes to reach the citadel of Machu Picchu, which opens its gates at 6:00 am.
We kindly request that you make sure to bring your original passport, the same one you used to book your trip, as the park rangers will ask you to present it (and if you wish, you can also get a Machu Picchu stamp in your passport).
Our guide will be happy to help you discover the ideal places to admire the majestic Machu Picchu Sanctuary, which will surely become the perfect photo for your Facebook profile. We will begin our tour presenting our entrance tickets to Machu Picchu and our passports, starting the visit.
Our guide will be waiting for you to begin the tour of the sanctuary of Machu Picchu, giving you a guided tour of approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes. During this time, we will explore the various archaeological sites of the Sanctuary, such as the Agricultural Zone, the Urban Zone, the Temple of the Sun, the Royal Residence, the Sacred Plaza, Inti Huatana, the Sacred Rock and many other points of interest that will surely leave you amazed.
Then depending on you we have the following schedules, at 14:30, 16:12 or 19:00, we will board our train bound for Ollantaytambo or Poroy.
Optional:
- Huayna Picchu: If you wish to add the Huayna Picchu experience to your adventure, with its breathtaking panoramas, you must book it in advance and it has an additional cost of $35 per person. The ascent to the top takes approximately 45 minutes and is quite a challenge.
- Machu Picchu Mountain: You also have the option of ascending Machu Picchu Mountain, a route that requires 90 minutes uphill and is challenging. Access has an additional cost of $25 per person. This option offers probably the most beautiful and spectacular views of all.
- Buffet Lunch: We suggest the MAPI Restaurant, which has an additional charge of $25.00.
What's Included
What’s Included Salkantay Trek:
- Transfers In/ Out
- Transportation Cusco -Mollepata.
- Professional bilingual guide (English – Spanish).
- Pack horses and muleteer.
- 03 breakfasts – 02 lunches – 02 dinners.
- Professional cook
- Camping Equipment “Triple waterproof tents for each 02 people and personal flasks” – Triple waterproof tents for each 02 people and personal flasks.
- Personal Flasks” – Dining Tents and Kitchen
- Camping Equipment for Guides, Cooks and Porters.
- 01 night Hotel with private bathroom and hot water in Machupicchu.
- First Aid Kit
- Oxygen Balloon.
- Entrance tickets to Machupicchu
- Return train tickets (Expedition) to Cusco.
- 01 bus up and down
- Transfer Ollantaytambo – Cusco – Hotel.
What Salkantay Trek does NOT include:
- Shower in Soraypampa camp (no access).
- Shower access at Chaullay camp (S/. 10 per person).
- Access to shower in Santa Teresa camp (S/. 5 per person).
- Extra weight of luggage.
- Breakfast on the first day (S/. 15 per person), last lunch and dinner.
- Boiled water at base camps.
- Entrance ticket to Cocalmayo hot springs (optional activity, S/. 25 per person).
- Zipline ticket (optional activity, 30.00 USD per person).
- Train Hydroelectric – Aguas Calientes (optional, 40.00 USD per person).
- Ascent to Machu Picchu Mountain (25.00 USD per person).
- Ascent to Huayna Picchu Mountain (25.00 USD per person).
- Tips or personal appreciation, optional 10% of the cost of your package.
- Travel and medical insurance.
Recommendations
Recommendations for your trip:
- Sunscreen
- Original passport
- CIIU (student discount card), in case you have it.
- Small backpack
- Rain poncho
- Good hiking pants, hiking boots, sun, hat and sunglasses
- Camera batteries and extra
- 2 liters of water
- Extra money
- Insect repellent
- Trekking poles
- Snacks
Prices
SHARED SERVICE TOURTour Salkantay Trek 3D/2N to Machupicchu PRICE PER PERSON Minimum 02 people |
|
Tour summary
What’s Included:
TYPE OF TOURIST TRAIN
|
|
Important note:
The train service THE VOYAGER – Inca Rail or EXPEDITION Train – Peru Rail, if you prefer the service in the VISTADOME Train, the additional cost is US$ 45.00 per person round trip.
We also have different prices for students, children and infants.
FAQS
Frequently Asked Questions from travelers
What age is the tour not recommended for?
Our hike is suitable for all people in good health. To ensure an optimal experience, we recommend that people over 60 years of age are in good physical condition. In addition, children who wish to participate must be at least 8 years old and enjoy hiking.
Is there food with vegetarian option?
Sure, it is possible to make the request in advance.
Is the Salkantay Trek dangerous?
No, the trek is safe. However, it is advisable to abide by the indications and suggestions of the tour guide, as a precautionary measure.
Is the route possible all year round? When should I not go?
Of course! The Salkantay Trek is feasible all year round. However, it is important to keep in mind that the most challenging months are January, February and March due to heavy rains. The rest of the year, the route is more comfortable, as rainfall is scarce.
Is the visit to Huayna Picchu Mountain included?
The entrance fee included is for “Machupicchu Solo”. If you wish, you can request the entrance fee for “Huayna Picchu” for an additional cost of $20.
Can I go on my own?
Yes it is possible but not recommended. If you decide to go on your own, be sure to bring a backpack with warm clothes, camping gear and enough food for each day. However, most visitors prefer to go on tour, as it is a more organized and comfortable experience.
How difficult is the 3-day Salkantay Trek?
Although the 3-day Salkantay Trek can be demanding due to the altitude and the uneven nature of the terrain, it is doable for any physically fit individual who prepares adequately.
Is previous hiking experience necessary to do this tour?
No previous hiking experience is necessary, but good physical condition is recommended. Challenging terrain, preparation and consult health professional if needed.
What does Salkantay mean?
“Salkantay” is a word that comes from the Quechua language, spoken by the indigenous communities of the Andean region of Peru. In Quechua, “Salkantay” refers to a snow-capped mountain located in the Vilcabamba Mountain Range, near the city of Cusco.
Do I need travel insurance for Salkantay trek?
It is highly recommended to obtain travel insurance for the Salkantay Trek and other outdoor adventures. It provides protection in case of injury, illness, cancellations and lost luggage. Check that it covers trekking and high altitudes. Travel insurance gives you peace of mind and helps you deal with unexpected situations during the Salkantay Trek.
What is the difference between the traditional Salkantay and the Salkantay 3D?
- Traditional Salkantay: Classic 4-5 day route, Salkantay pass, panoramic landscapes and arrival at Machu Picchu.
- Salkantay 3D: Shorter 3-day version, highlights Laguna Humantay, Salkantay pass and arrival at Machu Picchu.
- Differences: Duration, highlights and approach, but both reach Machu Picchu and offer beautiful scenery.
What is the best time of the year to do the Salkantay trek?
The ideal season to do the Salkantay Trek is during the dry season, which runs from April to October. During this period, rains are less frequent and the weather is more stable, allowing for a more comfortable trek and providing breathtaking panoramic views of the mountains and landscapes. However, from November to March, the route features more lush vegetation and the trails are usually less crowded.
What are the main points of interest along the Salkantay trek?
Along the Salkantay Trek, there are several notable points of interest. Some of them include:
- Laguna Humantay: A beautiful turquoise lagoon located at the foot of the snow-capped Humantay. It is an impressive scenic spot and is usually a stop on the first day of the trek.
- Salkantay Pass: The highest point of the trek, located at an altitude of approximately 4,600 meters. It offers panoramic views of the mountains, glaciers and surrounding landscapes.
- Cloud Forest: During the trek, you will cross the cloud forest, an area full of lush vegetation and great biodiversity.
- Santa Teresa Village: A picturesque village where hikers can enjoy natural hot springs to relax after several days of hiking.
- Llactapata Archaeological Zone: An archaeological site that offers panoramic views of Machu Picchu in the distance. It is a fascinating place to learn about the history and culture of the region.
- Machu Picchu: The final destination of the trek, one of the wonders of the modern world. It is an impressive Inca citadel and an iconic place to explore and marvel at.
These are just some of the points of interest along the Salkantay Trek. Each day of the trek offers amazing scenery and unique experiences that make the journey unforgettable.
Are there restrooms along the Salkantay Trek?
Along the Salkantay Trek there are basic restrooms at some points along the route. It is recommended to bring toilet paper and personal hygiene products. Some camps and lodges may have better facilities, but it varies according to the company. It is important to ask before starting the trek.
