Pickup offeredSee the meeting and pickup details below
Overview
The Salkantay Trek Challenge covers 49 km (31 miles) to Machu Picchu in just 3 days, offering the highlights of the classic route in a shorter timeframe. Hike past the impressive Salkantay Mountain, cross rugged Andean highlands, and descend into lush cloud forest valleys. Enjoy comfortable nights at exclusive Andean huts and in Aguas Calientes before reaching the legendary Lost City of the Incas.
• 3-day trek along the Salkantay Trail, the best alternative to the Inca Trail
• Epic photo opportunities at the Salkantay Glacier Mountain
• Trek from high-altitude Andes to cloud forest landscapes in just two days
• Stay at exclusive campsites in small groups
• Guided visit to Machu Picchu with a professional guide
Options
With Machu Picchu Mountain
Machu Picchu Mountain Ticket
Pickup included
With Huchuy Picchu Mountain
Huchuy Picchu Mountain Tickets
Pickup included
With Huayna Picchu Mountain
Huayna Picchu Mountain Tickets
Pickup included
Salkantay Trek Challenge 3 days
Pickup included
What's included
Pre-departure briefing
Hotel pickup and drop-off
Experienced Mountain Guide
Lunch
Tourist Class Train Aguas Calientes - Ollantaytambo (The voyager or Expedition)
Dinner
Backpack cover
Breakfast
Experienced cooks, horsemen and porters
Entrance to Machu Picchu (Circuit 2 for 5-month bookings; if unavailable, Circuit 3, then Circuit 1)
Start your adventure early with pickup in Cusco (2:30 a.m.) and head to Soraypampa (3,900 m / 12,795 ft).
10h · Admission ticket included
Enjoy an energy-packed breakfast before beginning the ascent along the 7 Serpents Trail to the Salkantay Pass (4,630 m / 15,190 ft), surrounded by imposing mountains and glaciers.
After lunch in Wayracmachay, continue the descent into the high Amazon rainforest, where the climate becomes warmer.
10h · Admission ticket included
End the day at the exclusive Mountain Sky View camp (Collpapampa, 2,950 m / 9,678 ft) and enjoy a comforting dinner under the stars.
Day 2: Collpapampa - Santa Teresa - La Playa - Hydroelectric Plant - Hot Springs
1h · Admission ticket included
Wake up to the sounds of the forest and enjoy a homemade breakfast before setting off on a leisurely hike through the Santa Teresa Valley.
5h · Admission ticket included
Walk through landscapes filled with waterfalls, orchids, and coffee plantations until you reach the village of La Playa, where you will enjoy a lunch made with local products and a demonstration of artisanal coffee making.
3h
Then, travel to Hidroeléctrica and continue on foot along the Urubamba River, surrounded by tropical jungle.
Aguas Calientes
10h
At the end of the day, arrive in Aguas Calientes, rest in a comfortable hotel, and share dinner with the group as you prepare for the most anticipated day: Machu Picchu.
Day 3: Aguas Calientes - Machu Picchu - Cusco
Aguas Calientes
2h
Start early with a light breakfast before taking the bus to Machu Picchu. As you ascend through the mist of the cloud forest, the surroundings become filled with magic and anticipation.
Historic Sanctuary of Machu Picchu
2h · Admission ticket included
Upon arrival, explore the Inca citadel on a two-hour guided tour of its temples, terraces, and sacred sites, discovering the grandeur of the ancient Inca Empire.
Ollantaytambo
2h
Then enjoy lunch in Aguas Calientes before heading back. In the afternoon, you board the panoramic train to Ollantaytambo.
Cusco
Pass by
From there, private transportation takes you to Cusco, ending this unforgettable experience with spectacular views and unique memories.
Meeting and pickup
Pickup details
We recommend booking hotels in the center of Cusco.
Additional information
Service animals allowed
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Not recommended for pregnant travelers
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Travelers should have a high level of physical fitness
It's recommended to arrive in Cusco at least 2 days before the trek to adjust to the altitude.
Machu Picchu permits are limited and can sell out several months in advance. We recommend booking at least 5 months ahead for travel between May and August
Passport name, number, expiry and country is required at time of booking for all participants
Please ensure your passport is up to date and ready for use on your travel day
Solo travelers are welcome and can join shared groups. No minimum participants required. Most departures are guaranteed.
Keep in mind this hike is a challenging trek. travellers have to be in good health and physical shape to fully enjoy every moment of this adventure.
Vegetarian or, vegan options are available, please advise at time of booking if required
Cancellation policy
All sales are final. No refund is available for cancellations.
