Salkantay Trek & Machu Picchu - 4 Days



Who is this trip for
Genders
- Female36%
- Male64%
Average age
Start / End
- Cusco
- Cusco
Physical rating
Group size
2 - 10Meals included
10Highlights
- Cross the majestic Salkantay Pass and marvel at the turquoise beauty of Humantay Lake before reaching the iconic Machu Picchu.
- Unwind each night in a luxury glamping beneath the stars to rustic Andean huts and a comfortable 3-star hotel in Aguas Calientes.
- Dive into Andean culinary heritage with a hands-on Pachamanca and savor the flavors of freshly brewed coffee at a local farm.
- End your journey in style with a scenic ride on the Vistadome or 360° train, taking in stunning views as you return to Cusco.
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Summary
Embark on a 4-day journey along the stunning Salkantay route to Machu Picchu, traversing high-altitude landscapes that include the dazzling turquoise waters of Humantay Lake, towering mountain passes, and vibrant cloud forests. Along the way, immerse yourself in Andean culture with a traditional Pachamanca cooking class and a visit to a local coffee farm. The adventure culminates with a guided exploration of the legendary Inca citadel of Machu Picchu, followed by a scenic return to Cusco aboard the panoramic Vistadome train.
Itinerary
Day 1
Cusco - Humantay Lake - Trexperience Glamping
- 16 km / 10 mi
- Highest Altitude: 4,200 m / 13,779 ft
- 7-8 hours
Your journey begins with an early pickup in Cusco around 4:30 a.m. and a drive through the mountains to the trailhead. Stop in Mollepata to enjoy a traditional Andean breakfast before continuing along winding roads with beautiful scenery. Begin the trek surrounded by valleys and glaciers, where wildlife like Andean geese and vizcachas can be spotted. Hike up to the turquoise Humantay Lake(4200 m / 13779 ft), one of the most stunning sights in the Andes. Explore the lake, take photos, and enjoy the views of the towering peaks. Afterward, descend to Soraypampa where a freshly prepared picnic lunch awaits. Continue the hike to Salkantaypampa and arrive at the exclusive Trexperience Salkantay Glamp campsite. Relax with tea time, share a delicious dinner and end the evening admiring a star-filled sky.
Day 2
Salkantay Glamp Campsite - Wayracmachay – Collpapampa
- 18 km / 11.2 mi
- Highest Altitude: 4,630 m / 15,190 ft
- 9 hours
Wake up to a warm drink and step outside to breathtaking views of the mountains. After breakfast, start the ascent toward the legendary Salkantay Pass (4,630 m / 15,190 ft). Walk among glaciers and rugged peaks, with turquoise lakes shimmering at the base of the mountains. Pause at the top to admire the dramatic landscape and capture unforgettable photos. Continue downhill as the scenery shifts from andean terrain to lush cloud forest. Enjoy lunch at Wayracmachay in a peaceful spot surrounded by valleys and waterfalls. Follow the trail deeper into the forest, listening to birdsong and the sound of rivers along the way. Arrive at Collpapampa, a charming village where you will spend the night in cozy Andean huts. Share dinner and relax in the tranquility of nature.
Day 3
Collpapampa – Pachamanca and Coffee Experience – Aguas Calientes (16km, 8hrs)
- 14 km / 8.6 mi
- Highest Altitude: 2,770 m /9,087 ft
- 6 hours
Begin the day with breakfast in the green valleys of the cloud forest. Hike through tropical paths filled with orchids, waterfalls, and jungle plants until reaching Lucmabamba. Take part in preparing a Pachamanca, an ancient Andean cooking ritual where food is baked with hot stones. Enjoy this traditional meal before visiting an organic coffee farm. Learn about the cultivation and roasting process and prepare a fresh cup of coffee with beans harvested in the valley. After this cultural experience, continue the journey with a short drive to Hidroelectrica. Walk along the railway tracks through lush landscapes and rivers until you arrive in Aguas Calientes. Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant and spend the night in a comfortable hotel.
Day 4
Machu Picchu - Vistadome Train - Cusco
- Machu Picchu Altitude: 2,430 m / 7,972 ft
- 2-3 hours in Machu Picchu
Wake up early and take the bus up to Machu Picchu. Enter the citadel as the morning sun lights up the ancient stone city. Follow your guide through temples, plazas and terraces while learning the history and secrets of the Inca civilization. Wander along the pathways and capture panoramic views of the Lost City of the Incas. After the guided tour, return to Aguas Calientes and enjoy free time to explore or have lunch on your own. Board the panoramic Vistadome or 360° train for a scenic ride back through the Sacred Valley. Upon arrival, your transfer will take you to your hotel in Cusco, marking the end of your unforgettable adventure.
What's Included
Accommodation
Posh Camping (2 nights), 3 Star Hotel (1 night)
Meals
Breakfasts: 4, Lunches: 3, Dinners: 3
Vegetarian options are available on all meals throughout the adventure.
Vegetarian options availableLocal Guide
GuidedThis adventure is led by a local guide throughout. The main language of this adventure is English. Please contact us for other languages available.
Wifi
Wifi is available during the adventure. In some areas and / or accommodation / transport Wifi may be free.
Dates & Prices
Sep 25
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- Save 6%Fri 5 Sep 2025 > Mon 8 Sep 20256+ spaces of 10 left£416Best offer£393
- Save 6%Sat 6 Sep 2025 > Tue 9 Sep 20256+ spaces of 10 left£416Best offer£393
- Save 6%Fri 12 Sep 2025 > Mon 15 Sep 20256+ spaces of 10 left£416Best offer£393
- Save 6%Sat 20 Sep 2025 > Tue 23 Sep 20256+ spaces of 10 left£416Best offer£393
Customer reviews & ratings
This was a trip if a lifetime! Everything from the porters, cooks and our two guides Rosa and Charlie was phenomenal. We had amazing Peruvian food! Charlie made sure we were all taken care of everyday and was very knowledgeable with the history of the Inca trail! We travelled with an amazing group and we definitely would recommend this operator to all our family and friends.
Nicole Aug, 2023 VerifiedThe trek was so great! Had such a wonderful variety of views and the hike was challenging at times, but so worth it! The company did a great job of making sure me and my friends were safe, happy, and enjoying our time! Our guides Willian and Filio were wonderful in guiding us as well as making sure we were on track. They kept the schedule well and kept track of all 10 of us. I really enjoyed my trip and the experience of this tour! I would love to do the tour again with this company! Such a great experience!
Camille Jul, 2023 Verified
Essential trip information
Our Important Notes and Packing List cover all essentials, from necessary equipment to inclusions, ensuring you're fully equipped and informed for this extraordinary adventure and more.
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