Salkantay Trek & Machu Picchu - 4 Days



Trip Snapshot
Genders
- Female36%
- Male64%
Average age
Start / End
- Cusco
- Cusco
Physical rating
Group size
2 - 10Meals included
10Highlights
- Embark on a breathtaking journey through high-altitude Andean landscapes, culminating in the dazzling turquoise waters of Humantay Lake, framed by towering, snow-capped peaks. Witness a spectacle of nature that promises unforgettable photographic moments.
- Ascend to the legendary Salkantay Pass, standing at an impressive 4,630 meters (15,190 ft). Experience the thrill of walking among glaciers and rugged peaks, with shimmering turquoise lakes beneath, offering dramatic panoramic views that will leave you awestruck.
- Delve into the heart of Andean culture with a unique Pachamanca cooking class, an ancient ritual where food is baked with hot stones. Follow this with a visit to a local organic coffee farm, learning about cultivation and enjoying a freshly brewed cup directly from the valley.
- Transition from glacial heights to lush, vibrant cloud forests, alive with the symphony of birdsong and the sight of exotic orchids and cascading waterfalls. This biodiverse paradise offers a serene and immersive experience with nature's beauty.
- Experience the magic of Machu Picchu as the morning sun illuminates the ancient Inca citadel. Enjoy a comprehensive guided tour, exploring its mystical temples, grand plazas, and intricate terraces, uncovering the rich history and secrets of this iconic 'Lost City'.
- Conclude your adventure with a spectacular return journey to Cusco aboard the panoramic Vistadome train. Relax and soak in the breathtaking vistas of the Sacred Valley, reflecting on the incredible landscapes and unforgettable experiences of your trek.

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What's inside the PDF
Day-by-day itinerary
Every day mapped out, covering activities, travel times, meals and where you'll stay.Packing & kit list
Exactly what to bring, from clothing and essentials to luggage guidelines and what's available to hire locally.What's included
Accommodation, transport, guides and meals, so you can see exactly what your price covers.
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
Luxury Glamping (1 night), Andean hut (1 night), 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 2026
from £406Oct 2026
from £406Nov 2026
from £406Dec 2026
from £406
- Save 1%Sunday 27 Sep 2026to Wednesday 30 Sep 20266+ spaces of 10 leftGuaranteed Departure£411£406Best offer
- Save 1%Monday 28 Sep 2026to Thursday 1 Oct 20266+ spaces of 10 leftGuaranteed Departure£411£406Best offer
- Save 1%Tuesday 29 Sep 2026to Friday 2 Oct 20266+ spaces of 10 leftGuaranteed Departure£411£406Best offer
- Save 1%Wednesday 30 Sep 2026to Saturday 3 Oct 20266+ spaces of 10 leftGuaranteed Departure£411£406Best offer
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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