5 daysSalkantay Trek 5 Days
Glacier pass, cloud forest and sky domes on the full length route to Machu Picchu.
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Salkantay Treks
The fast line over the Salkantay Pass, with two nights in sky domes.
The 4 day Salkantay Trek is the most direct way to walk from the high Andes to Machu Picchu. It crosses the Salkantay Pass at 4,630 m between the Salkantay and Humantay snow peaks and then drops into subtropical forest thick with green.
Both camp nights are spent in fully equipped domes, so you get the adventure without giving up a proper bed. On the last day a guide takes you through Machu Picchu.
The trip at a glance
Day 1. Humantay Lake and sky domes
Hike to the turquoise water of Humantay Lake and spend your first night in the dome camp at Quiswaraniyoc.
Day 2. Salkantay Pass and cloud forest
Cross the highest point of the route at 4,630 m, descend through a complete change of ecosystem and sleep in the domes at Lucmabamba.
Day 3. Coffee farm and first sight of Machu Picchu
Visit a family coffee plantation, climb to the Llactapata lookout and walk on to Aguas Calientes for the night.
Day 4. Machu Picchu and back to Cusco
Take a guided tour of the citadel and return by train or by road through Hidroelectrica.
Highlights
Glamping in sky domes
Two nights in panoramic domes with clear panels, a big step up from a standard tent.
Humantay Lake
One of the best known alpine lakes of Peru, fed by meltwater from the glacier that towers above it.
The Salkantay Pass
Stand at about 4,630 m (15,190 ft) with the sacred Salkantay massif all around you.
A family coffee farm
Follow the bean from harvest to cup with the people who grow it and taste fresh organic coffee.
Machu Picchu from Llactapata
A wide view of the citadel from an Inca site that only a small share of visitors ever reach.
Guided Machu Picchu visit
Explore the citadel with a professional guide who explains its design, engineering and meaning.
From our guidesThis itinerary is built for hikers who are short on time. If you can spare one more day, look at our Salkantay Trek 5 Days, which slows the pace and adds a night in the Chaullay huts.
Day by day itinerary
Day 1Cusco to Quiswaraniyoc. Humantay Lake
You leave Cusco before dawn and drive through quiet valleys to Mollepata and on to Soraypampa, the gateway to the Salkantay area. The centerpiece of the day is the climb to Humantay Lake. Afterward you walk to our camp at Quiswaraniyoc for mountain views, a comfortable dome and a calm evening.
Hotel pickup and drive
Pickup in Cusco is between about 4:30 and 5:00 a.m. Once the group is together, private transport crosses the Anta valley toward Mollepata. On the way your guide runs through the plan, the safety advice and the places you will pass.
Breakfast in Mollepata
A fresh buffet breakfast with local and international choices sets you up for the day. This is also the place to use the toilets and buy any last snacks.
Soraypampa and final briefing
At Soraypampa the horsemen and pack horses are waiting. The guide checks your gear, explains the walking pace and leads the group off. Within minutes the view fills with snow peaks, glacial streams and high altitude plants.
Hike to Humantay Lake
The trail climbs steadily and usually takes 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on pace and acclimatization. At about 4,200 m (13,780 ft) the lake appears, colored by meltwater from Humantay Mountain. You have time to rest, take photos and hear why the peak matters in Andean belief. Horses can be hired from the community for the climb if you want help.
Down to Quiswaraniyoc
You return to the valley floor and continue to our private camp. The walking gets easier and the Salkantay massif stays in view the whole way.
Lunch, rest and sky domes
A hot lunch is served on arrival and the afternoon is free. Your dome has wide windows, so you can watch the peaks from bed as the light fades. After dinner the guide explains the next day, the climb to the Salkantay Pass.
- Distance
- About 10 km (6.2 mi)
- Walking time
- 5 to 6 hours
- Highest point
- 4,200 m (13,780 ft) at Humantay Lake
Day 2Quiswaraniyoc to Lucmabamba. Salkantay Pass
The second day is the hardest and the one people remember most. You climb to the pass, take in a full circle of snow peaks and then follow the trail from bare high country into cloud forest. It is one of the sharpest ecological changes you can walk through in Peru. The day ends at the domes in Lucmabamba.
Coca tea wake up
Before sunrise a cup of hot coca tea arrives at your dome to help with the altitude ahead. After breakfast you pack up for the biggest walk of the trek.
Climb to the pass
From camp the path rises steadily to roughly 4,630 m (15,190 ft). The ascent normally takes 3 to 4 hours, with many pauses to drink and look around at one of the most respected mountains of the Andean world.
The highest point
At the pass you see glaciers, deep valleys and the summits of the Vilcabamba range. It is the moment for photos and a quiet minute before the long way down.
Into the cloud forest
The trail leaves the alpine zone and the plants, temperature and wildlife change as you lose height. Waterfalls, rivers and orchids take the place of rock.
Lunch on the trail
A freshly made lunch is served at a scenic spot so everyone can refuel before the afternoon descent to Chaullay.
Transfer to Lucmabamba
In Chaullay a private vehicle takes you the short distance to Lucmabamba. This skips several kilometers of dirt road and gives you more time to rest.
Night in the domes
Check into your dome, take a shower and relax before dinner. In the evening the guide previews Day 3: the coffee farm, Llactapata and your first view of Machu Picchu.
- Distance
- About 18 km (11.2 mi)
- Walking time
- 8 to 9 hours
- Highest point
- 4,630 m (15,190 ft) at the Salkantay Pass
Day 3Lucmabamba to Aguas Calientes. Coffee and Llactapata
Culture, history and scenery come together on Day 3. You learn about one of the finest coffee regions of Peru, climb an original stretch of Inca road to Llactapata and see Machu Picchu across the valley. Then the trail drops to Hidroelectrica and follows the railway to Aguas Calientes.
Breakfast and coffee plantation
You wake in the cloud forest and have breakfast at camp. The first visit is a local plantation where a family shows each step of traditional production: harvesting, roasting, grinding and brewing. You taste the result on the spot.
Hike to Llactapata
A gradual climb leads to this Inca settlement on one of the best viewpoints of the route. In clear weather Machu Picchu stands across the canyon under Huayna Picchu. Your guide explains how Llactapata tied into the road system between Cusco and the royal sanctuary.
Descent to Hidroelectrica
The path goes down through tropical vegetation full of orchids, butterflies and waterfalls. Lunch is ready when you arrive.
Railway walk to Aguas Calientes
After lunch you follow the tracks beside the Urubamba river for about 2.5 to 3 hours. It is gentle walking through a canyon of subtropical forest and a relaxed end to the trekking.
Arrival in Aguas Calientes
Check into your hotel and enjoy some free time in town. Later the guide confirms your entry time, circuit and transport options for the morning. Dinner is at a restaurant we have selected.
- Distance
- About 16 km (10 mi)
- Walking time
- 6 to 7 hours
- Highest point
- 2,800 m (9,186 ft) at Llactapata
Day 4Machu Picchu and return to Cusco
The final day belongs to Machu Picchu. After an early breakfast you go up to the citadel, where your guide brings its history and engineering to life. Then you either climb an optional mountain or start your return to Cusco.
Early breakfast and departure
Breakfast is at the hotel before sunrise. The guide tells you exactly when to leave, according to the time on your ticket. You can reach the gate by shuttle bus or on foot by the official path.
Guided tour of Machu Picchu
Inside, the guided walk follows the circuit on your ticket and lasts about 2 to 2.5 hours. You stop at the classic viewpoints and learn the purpose of the temples, terraces and ceremonial areas, and how they were built.
Optional mountain climbs
If you booked Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain, you go straight to that trailhead after the tour. Both give superb views and both have limited daily spaces, so they must be reserved ahead.
- Main visit
- Machu Picchu citadel
- Highest point
- 2,430 m (7,972 ft) at Machu Picchu
Choosing how you return
Train return
Walk or take the shuttle bus down to Aguas Calientes and board the afternoon train to Ollantaytambo. Our private transport brings you from there to Cusco in the evening.
- The quickest and most comfortable way back
- Best if you have an evening flight or little time
- Costs more
Road return via Hidroelectrica
Walk from Machu Picchu along the railway to Hidroelectrica and board private transport there for the drive to Cusco.
- The most economical option
- Makes for a much longer travel day
Elevation profile
1Cusco3,399 m (11,152 ft)
2Mollepata2,900 m (9,514 ft)
3Soraypampa3,900 m (12,795 ft)
4Humantay Lake4,200 m (13,780 ft)End of day 1
5Salkantay Pass4,630 m (15,190 ft)
6Chaullay2,900 m (9,514 ft)
7Lucmabamba2,000 m (6,562 ft)End of day 2
8Llactapata2,700 m (8,858 ft)
9Hidroelectrica1,900 m (6,234 ft)
10Aguas Calientes2,040 m (6,693 ft)End of day 3
11Machu Picchu2,430 m (7,972 ft)End of day 4
What is included
Before the trek and transfers
Briefing. A meeting in Cusco the evening before departure covering the route, weather and altitude advice, plus handover of your duffel bag.
Hotel pickup. Door to door collection in Cusco between 4:30 and 5:00 a.m.
Private transport. From Cusco to Soraypampa on Day 1 and the return transport you selected.
Luggage storage. Free storage for extra bags at our Cusco office during the trek.
Guiding and safety
English speaking guide. A certified mountain guide for the trail and for your Machu Picchu visit.
Small group. Group size is kept low so everyone gets attention and support.
Oxygen and first aid. Emergency oxygen and a complete first aid kit on every departure.
Operations support. Our team is on call from booking until you are back in Cusco.
Trail support
7 kg duffel. A duffel bag with a 7 kg (15 lb) allowance, sleeping bag included if you rent one, carried by the horse team.
Muleteers and horses. Horsemen and pack animals move camp gear, food and duffels along the route.
Food and lodging
Meals. 4 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 3 dinners and daily snacks cooked by our trail kitchen.
Special diets. Vegetarian, vegan, gluten free and lactose free meals at no extra cost with advance notice.
Sky domes. Two nights in panoramic domes with clear panels for mountain and night sky views.
Hotel in Aguas Calientes. One night in a private room with hot shower and Wi-Fi.
Machu Picchu and return
Entry ticket. Official Machu Picchu ticket. We aim for the classic circuit or the best official alternative available.
Guided visit. About 2.5 hours with your guide inside the citadel.
Return to Cusco. Train or road via Hidroelectrica, organized by us.
Not included
Humantay Lake entry. Collected by the Mollepata municipality and paid in soles at the checkpoint before the hike. It funds upkeep of the area.
Sleeping bag rental. Nights at the first camps are cold. If you do not bring your own bag you can rent one from us that is made for high altitude.
Trekking pole rental. Adjustable poles can be rented. They take pressure off the knees and add balance on steep or uneven ground.
Drinking water on the trail. Meals and hot drinks are covered, bottled water is not. Bring a reusable bottle or bladder. Purified water is offered at camps and bottles are sold at several points.
Internet and phone signal. Much of the route has little or no coverage. Some camps and villages sell Wi-Fi, without any guarantee of quality.
Showers. Basic toilets are available throughout. Hot showers at certain camps and in Aguas Calientes may carry a small local fee, and remote camps have cold water only.
Tips. Optional. If you feel the guides, cooks, muleteers and drivers did a great job, a tip is welcome but never expected.
Travel insurance. Not included. Please arrange cover for medical emergencies, cancellations and lost belongings before you arrive in Peru.
Personal spending. Snacks, alcohol, souvenirs, laundry and anything you buy on the trek or in Aguas Calientes.
Riding horse. Offered only on some sections, mainly the climbs to Humantay Lake and the pass, subject to availability. Paid in cash to the owners.
Extra Machu Picchu mountains. Huayna Picchu, Machu Picchu Mountain and Huchuy Picchu are optional upgrades with limited daily permits. Reserve early.
Bus between Aguas Calientes and Machu Picchu. Shuttle tickets can be bought separately if you would rather not walk up or down.
Salkantay Trek 4 Days group prices 2026
There are two rates, set by the way you return from Machu Picchu: by road (Aguas Calientes, Hidroelectrica, Cusco) or by train (Aguas Calientes, Ollantaytambo, Cusco).
| Adult | $320 |
|---|---|
| Student | $300 |
| Under 17 | $300 |
| Adult | $400 |
|---|---|
| Student | $380 |
| Under 17 | $380 |
Who gets the reduced rate
- Travelers under 17 pay the student rate automatically.
- University students need a physical plastic card showing the university name, their full name, a photo and an expiry date that covers the trek. They must be under 25 on the day they enter Machu Picchu.
- ISIC cards and digital IDs are not accepted at the government checkpoints. Send a clear photo of your card to info@incaoutdoors.com and we will confirm your discount.
Optional extras
- Vistadome trainOnly with the train return$45
- Huayna PicchuLimited daily permits$60
- Machu Picchu MountainLimited daily permits$60
- Trekking polesFor the whole trek$15
- Sleeping bagFor the whole trek$15
Private Salkantay Trek 4 Days prices 2026
- Walk at your own speed with no group to keep up with
- Start each day when you like, earlier or later
- Stop wherever you want for photos and viewpoints
- Pick your own Machu Picchu entry time
- A guide for your party only
- A 3 star hotel in Aguas Calientes in place of the standard one
- A good fit for families, couples and groups of friends
| 2 people | $770 |
|---|---|
| 3 people | $730 |
What the private service includes
Private transport from Cusco to the trailhead
Private guide from the trailhead to the end of the Machu Picchu visit
Private accommodation along the trek
3 star hotel in Aguas Calientes
Private transfer from Ollantaytambo to your hotel in the Sacred Valley or Cusco (train return)
What to pack
Essentials
Original passport
Student card
Cash in soles
Personal medication
Water bottle
Small daypack
Clothing
Quick dry t-shirts
Trekking pants
Fleece jacket
Down jacket
Waterproof jacket
Trekking socks
Sun hat
Warm beanie
Gloves
Neck buff
Sandals
Hiking gear
Hiking boots
Trekking poles
Sleeping bag
Headlamp
Rain poncho
Power bank
Camera or phone
Sunglasses
Toiletries
Sunscreen
Insect repellent
Quick dry towel
Toiletries
Nice to have
Energy snacks
Binoculars- Action camera
Spare batteries
Good to know
Best time to hike the Salkantay Trek
May to September is the dry season in the Peruvian Andes, with sunny days, clear views and firm trails. April and October work well too and are quieter. From November to March it rains more often, the hills turn greener and parts of the path get muddy.
Altitude and acclimatization
The trek tops out at 4,630 m (15,190 ft) on the Salkantay Pass. To lower the risk of altitude sickness, spend at least 2 days in Cusco first, drink plenty of water, skip alcohol and take your first days at height slowly. The CDC guidance on high altitude travel is a reliable medical reference.
How hard is the 4 day trek?
It is rated moderate to challenging because of the altitude, the steep sections and the long days. Most people in reasonable shape finish it without trouble when they train a little beforehand with regular walks or cardio and give themselves time to acclimatize.
Weather on the route
Expect a bit of everything. Nights at the high camp can fall below 0°C (32°F), while the cloud forest lower down is far warmer. Layers and a waterproof shell are the answer.
Plants, animals and landscapes
The route passes through four ecosystems: snow peaks, alpine valleys, cloud forest and subtropical lowland. Along the way you may spot orchids, hummingbirds, bright butterflies and, with luck, a spectacled bear, always with the Salkantay and Humantay glaciers above.
Food on the trek
Every meal is cooked fresh by our trail kitchen with local ingredients. Vegetarian, vegan, gluten free and other diets are handled at no extra cost when you ask at booking. A few snacks of your own are handy between meals.
Getting ready
Preparation is simple and it pays off. Walk regularly, build some cardio, stay hydrated and break in your boots before you travel. Packing only what you need makes each day lighter.
Practical tips for Peru
Carry some cash in soles and keep your passport with you. Cards are widely accepted in Cusco, but the villages on the trek work with cash only. A handful of Spanish phrases goes a long way.
Frequently asked questions
How many days should I acclimatize before the trek?
At least 2 days in Cusco. That gives your body time to adjust and makes altitude sickness much less likely.
How difficult is the Salkantay Trek 4 Days?
Moderate to challenging. The altitude is a bigger test than the distance. With good fitness and proper acclimatization you can complete it.
What is the highest point of the trek?
The Salkantay Pass at 4,630 m (15,190 ft). From there the trail descends through cloud forest toward Machu Picchu.
Is the Humantay Lake entry fee included?
No. The local municipality collects it separately and it is paid in cash at the checkpoint.
How much luggage can I bring?
Up to 7 kg (15 lb) in the duffel bag we give you, counting the sleeping bag if you rent ours. While walking you carry only your daypack.
Can I rent a sleeping bag and trekking poles?
Yes, both can be rented before departure. Reserve them ahead so we can set them aside for you.
Which meals are included?
4 breakfasts, 3 lunches and 3 dinners, all made fresh by our trail cooks. Vegetarian, vegan, gluten free and other diets are available with notice.
Which Machu Picchu circuit do I get?
The trek includes an official entry ticket. We book the classic circuit whenever we can. The final circuit depends on what the Peruvian authorities have available when you reserve.
What happens if I get altitude sickness?
Our guides are trained to spot the symptoms and carry oxygen and a first aid kit. They will help you at once and decide on the safest next step for your condition.
What should I pack?
Sturdy boots, layers, a waterproof jacket, sunscreen, insect repellent, a reusable bottle and your personal items. The full packing list is on this page.
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