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Salkantay Trek 3 Days with Machu Picchu

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Group Size
Min 2 Persons
Duration
Activity Type
Tour Cultural
Season
All Year
Food
Not included
Physical Level
Easy
Physical Level
Easy
Lodge/Hotel
Easy

Overview

The 3-Day Salkantay Trek perfectly suits adventurers possessing hiking experience or those desiring a more compact yet exhilarating expedition. This streamlined trek enables you to discover the most remarkable highlights of the Salkantay route while optimizing your available time.

During your opening day, you’ll climb to the awe-inspiring Salkantay Mountain at an elevation of 4,650 meters, representing one of the most spectacular overlooks in the Andean range. Your journey progresses with a trek along the Llactapata Trail, an authentic Incan pathway presenting an exceptional vista of Machu Picchu the day preceding your arrival at the historic sanctuary.

The concluding day of the Salkantay Trek 3 Days reaches its peak with a visit to the legendary Machu Picchu, where you’ll admire the architectural and cultural magnificence of Incan civilization.

BEST TOUR OPTION
Price from $ 0.00 USD Per Person
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  • Visit Machupicchu with a professional expert guide.
  • Enjoy a comfortable and safe journey with transport and trains.
  • Use your free time in Aguas Calientes to explore.
  • Make a quick and reliable booking with flexible payments.
  • Ask about essential items and optional services like hotels.
WhatsApp +51 974 217 700

Overview

CHECKING AVAILABILITY & MAKING YOUR RESERVATION

To verify space availability and secure your spot on the Salkantay Trek, simply select the “BOOK ONLINE” option to view our live availability calendar. When your desired departure date shows as available, this confirms that Machu Picchu entrance permits are likewise accessible for your visit date, allowing you to move forward with your booking.

After your reservation is finalized, we’ll acquire your Machu Picchu admission ticket, consistently selecting the most favorable circuit option available at your booking moment. Machu Picchu features multiple official touring circuits, and our selection priority follows this sequence: When Option 1 remains available, we’ll secure that circuit. Should it be unavailable, we’ll proceed to Option 2, continuing this pattern based on real-time availability displayed on the official Peruvian government platform, as they maintain exclusive authorization for Machu Picchu ticket sales, with all tour operators purchasing through this identical system.

Circuit Priority List:

  • Option 1: Llaqta Machupicchu / Circuit 2 – Classic Route / Path 2-A: Traditional Design – Includes the iconic panoramic viewpoint and full citadel exploration: View Photos & Videos
  • Option 2: Llaqta Machupicchu / Circuit 2 – Classic Route / Path 2-B: Lower Platform – Similar to Option 1 with a slightly modified route through the urban sector: View Photos & Videos
  • Option 3: Llaqta Machupicchu / Circuit 1 – Panoramic View / Path 1-B: Upper Platform – Covers the upper area with the classic viewpoint but does not include the citadel interior: View Photos & Videos
  • Option 4: Llaqta Machupicchu / Circuit 3 – Royal Machu Picchu / Path 3-B: Royal Design – Explores only the lower section of Machu Picchu without access to the classic viewpoint: View Photos & Videos
  • Option 5: Llaqta Machupicchu / Circuit 1 – Path 1-A: Machu Picchu Mountain – Includes the mountain hike with panoramic views but excludes the citadel: View Photos & Videos
  • Option 6: Llaqta Machupicchu / Circuit 3 – Path 3-A: Waynapicchu Mountain – Includes the Waynapicchu hike plus a short visit to the lower citadel area: View Photos & Videos

Should Option 1 matter significantly to you, we recommend booking no less than four months ahead—this circuit enjoys the highest popularity and reaches capacity rapidly. Remember that all tickets come exclusively from the Peruvian government, meaning no tour company can obtain permits beyond what’s shown on the official platform. Check current MachuPicchu circuit availability in real-time here: 👉 https://tuboleto.cultura.pe/llaqta_machupicchu

Trip details

  • Secondary Heading: 3-Day Salkantay Adventure to Machu Picchu
  • Promotional Badge: Seasonal Special
  • Trip Duration: 3 Days / 3 Nights Journey
  • Starting Price: $320 USD
  • Adventure Category: Trekking & Hiking
  • Challenge Rating: High Intensity
  • Maximum Group Capacity: 16 Participants
  • Included Breakfasts: 3
  • Included Dinners: 2
  • Included Lunches: 2
  • Total Trekking Distance: 50 Kilometers
  • Departure Schedule: Available Every Day
  • Destinations Covered: Cusco, Soraypampa, Salkantay Mountain, Santa Teresa, Aguas Calientes, Machu Picchu
  • Meeting Point: Your accommodation in Cusco

Trip Summary

A 3-day expedition combining high-altitude trekking, ancient Incan ruins, and the iconic Machu Picchu sanctuary. The trek covers approximately 61 kilometers across stunning Andean and Amazonian landscapes, reaching elevations up to 4,630 meters.

Day 1: Cusco to Lucmabamba

  • Departure: 2:00 AM from your Cusco accommodation
  • Transfer: 3-hour drive to Soraypampa (6:30 AM start)
  • Trek: Climb to Salkantay Pass (4,630m), then descend to Chawllay
  • Distance: 22 kilometers | Duration: 9 hours of hiking
  • Accommodation: Star domes in Lucmabamba (2,000m elevation)
  • Meals: Breakfast, lunch, tea, dinner
  • Highlights: Highest elevation point; mountain views; jungle campsite under the stars

Day 2: Lucmabamba to Aguas Calientes

  • Start: 7:00 AM from Lucmabamba
  • Route: Llactapata ruins (2,700m) via ancient Incan trail → Hidroeléctrica → Aguas Calientes
  • Distance: 24 kilometers | Duration: 8–9 hours of hiking
  • Difficulty: Demanding
  • Accommodation: Hotel in Aguas Calientes (2,000m elevation)
  • Meals: Breakfast (6:30 AM), lunch, dinner (7:00 PM)
  • Highlights: Llactapata archaeological site with Machu Picchu views; Amazonian forest scenery; relaxation before final day

Day 3: Machu Picchu & Return to Cusco

Morning – Machu Picchu Visit:

  • Route to entrance: Walking (1.5 hours, 1,700 steps) or shuttle bus ($12 USD, 30 minutes)
  • 2-hour guided tour of the citadel with professional guide
  • Optional: Waynapicchu or Machu Picchu Mountain hikes (3 hours round-trip) if booked

Return to Cusco (Choose One):

  1. By Train: Aguas Calientes → Ollantaytambo (1.5 hrs) → Cusco (2 hrs). Trains depart 2:30–3:30 PM; arrival 7:00–8:00 PM
  2. By Vehicle: Hike to Hidroeléctrica (3 hrs), depart 3:00 PM, arrive Cusco 10:00–10:30 PM (valid only for 6:00–9:00 AM ticket times; otherwise add extra night in Aguas Calientes)

Itinerary

Launch Your Expedition with an Early Cusco Departure: Transfer to Soraypampa and Begin the Salkantay Trek

Launch your expedition early with a 2:00 AM collection from your Cusco accommodation, followed by a 3-hour transfer to Soraypampa, where your memorable hike commences.

Arriving at Soraypampa, you’ll unite with your Salkantay trek group for a substantial breakfast to energize for the upcoming day. At approximately 6:30 AM, begin your climb to the entire Salkantay trail’s highest elevation point, standing at an extraordinary 4,630 meters elevation.

Following roughly 3 hours of hiking, celebrate achieving the summit and absorb the magnificent views of Salkantay Mountain. Pause momentarily to offer gratitude to the Apus (Andean deities) in recognition of their guidance throughout your expedition.

Subsequently, initiate your descent, covering a complete distance of 15 kilometers down to an altitude of 2,900 meters. This downward trek divides into two portions: the opening segment, from the summit to the lunch location, requires about 2 hours. Following a well-earned lunch interval, proceed for another 3 hours to arrive at a location called Chawllay, where you’ll board local transportation for approximately 1 hour to the captivating Lucmabamba camp.

At Lucmabamba, you’ll experience accommodations in stardomes, permitting you to sleep beneath the stars in the jungle’s heart, delivering a genuinely distinctive and immersive experience.

DAY 01 HIGHLIGHTS:

  • Covering Distance: 22 kilometers – Roughly 9 Hours of Hiking
    • Lucmabamba Campsite Elevation: Located at 2,000 meters altitude
    • Significant Achievement: Conquering the trek’s highest elevation at 4,650 meters
    • Climate Conditions: Warm and breezy throughout daytime, with cooler temperatures during evening
    • Overnight Lodging: Experience an evening in the star domes
    • Meals Provided: Enjoy a delectable selection including breakfast, lunch, tea time, and dinner

The day launches with a 6:00 AM wake-up notification, followed by breakfast at 6:30 AM, before commencing the hike at 7:00 AM from the Lucmabamba campsite toward the archaeological location of Llactapata. The trek incorporates a 3-hour climb along an authentic Incan trail leading to Llactapata, where you can appreciate distinctive views of Machu Picchu, Waynapicchu, and the neighboring mountains.

Following exploration of the ruins, you’ll descend toward Hidroeléctrica, which involves a challenging 2-hour trek where trekking poles prove advantageous.

Reaching the hydroelectric station, you’ll have lunch at a community restaurant and some time to unwind before continuing the journey. The concluding hike to Aguas Calientes involves a 3-hour walk alongside the railway from Hidroeléctrica, providing glimpses of Machu Picchu from the valley below.

Arriving in Aguas Calientes, your guide will escort you to your overnight hostel, permitting you to rest and freshen up before dinner.

This second day of the Salkantay Trek merges historical discovery at the Llactapata archaeological location with a scenic descent through the Amazonian forest, concluding with a relaxing evening in Aguas Calientes in preparation for your Machu Picchu visit. The trail and location are enveloped by the abundant vegetation of the Peruvian Amazon, presenting a glimpse into untouched wilderness awaiting exploration.

Dinner is arranged for 7:00 PM at a community restaurant, where you’ll complete preparations for tomorrow’s Machu Picchu adventure.

DAY 02 SUMMARY:

  • Meals Provided: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
    • Overnight Lodging: Hotel accommodation in Aguas Calientes
    • Challenge Level: Demanding
    • Trekking Distance: 24 kilometers (roughly 15 miles)
    • Approximate Hiking Time: 8 to 9 hours
    • Peak Altitude: 2,700 meters at Llactapata
    • Aguas Calientes Elevation: 2,000 meters
    • Climate Conditions: Hot

🏔️ Final Day – Machu Picchu Visit

Your tour’s final day focuses entirely on exploring the magnificent Incan sanctuary of Machu Picchu. Your admission time depends on the schedule printed on your entrance permit, making it essential to reach the primary gate precisely at that designated time.

To travel from Aguas Calientes (your overnight town) to Machu Picchu’s main entrance, two options exist:

🚶‍♂️ Walking Route (approximately 1.5 hours):

Begin with a 30-minute level walk from your accommodation to Puente Ruinas (the initial checkpoint), where you’ll present your passport and Machu Picchu permit. From there, climb uphill for roughly 1 hour, ascending approximately 1,700 steps.

➤ For a 6:00 AM permit, plan to start walking at 4:30 AM, following breakfast at your accommodation.

🚌 Shuttle Bus Service (30 minutes):

Should you prefer avoiding the walk, comfortable buses run to the entrance. Tickets cost $12 USD one direction and can be purchased the previous evening or that morning. Buses start operating at 5:30 AM, running every 5–10 minutes on a first-come, first-served basis.

Regardless of your selected option, the crucial point is arriving at the main gate at your ticket’s designated time.

🗺️ Guided Machu Picchu Tour

Arriving, you’ll join your group and professional guide, who’ll conduct a 2-hour guided exploration of Machu Picchu. The tour follows the designated circuit assigned to your permit. Your guide will illuminate the location’s fascinating history, impressive architecture, and spiritual significance, while providing time for photography and scenery appreciation.

⛰️ Additional Hiking Options (for those holding supplementary permits)

Should you have reserved an extra permit for Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain, you may begin the climb following the guided tour. These hikes require roughly 3 hours round-trip and demand advance reservation due to restricted availability.

🚆 Returning to Cusco – Two Alternatives:

After completing your Machu Picchu activities, it’s time returning to Cusco. Two return alternatives exist:

🚆 Alternative 1: Returning by Train

  • Travel back to Aguas Calientes either walking (1.5 hours) or via shuttle bus (30 minutes / $12 USD)
    • Board the train toward Ollantaytambo (1.5-hour journey)
    • Upon reaching Ollantaytambo, continue by tourist vehicle to Cusco (2-hour drive)
    • Trains typically depart between 2:30 PM and 3:30 PM, subject to availability
    • Arrival in Cusco occurs between 7:00 PM and 8:00 PM

🚗 Alternative 2: Returning by Vehicle via Hidroelectrica

  • Hike from Machu Picchu to Hidroelectrica, requiring approximately 3 hours
    • You must reach Hidroelectrica by 2:30 PM to board the sole available vehicle departure at 3:00 PM
    • The drive to Cusco spans between 5 and 6 hours, with anticipated arrival between 10:00 PM and 10:30 PM
    • Critical: This return alternative only functions when your Machu Picchu entry time falls between 6:00 AM and 9:00 AM. For later ticket times, you won’t arrive promptly to catch the vehicle and must spend an additional night in Aguas Calientes, returning the following day
    • Any supplementary expenses for accommodation, meals, or other services become the traveler’s responsibility

Inclusions

Included

Pre-Trek Orientation Mandatory meeting at 7:00 PM the evening before at Machu Picchu Reservations office in Cusco. Meet your professional guide and fellow trekkers. Receive technical information, pickup times, train passes, Machu Picchu permits, a 7 kg duffel bag for horse transport, and luggage storage details. Settle remaining balance and rent sleeping bag or poles if needed.

Professional Tour Guide Certified guides specializing in mountain expeditions lead the entire trek and conduct a 2-hour guided Machu Picchu tour. All guides carry first aid supplies and oxygen cylinders; fluent in English and Spanish.

Pickup Service Hotel or Airbnb pickup between 2:00–2:30 AM with exact timing confirmed at briefing. Alternatively, arrive at the office at 2:30 AM.

Private Transportation Comfortable tourist vehicle transport from Cusco to Soraypampa (3-hour journey) included.

Meals All meals prepared by specialist chefs: 3 breakfasts, 2 lunches, 2 dinners, and daily morning snacks. Fresh, nutritious, and energy-enhancing. Vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and specialized dietary options available at no extra cost.

Accommodation

  • Star Domes (Day 1): Panoramic glass structures with mattresses and pillows; sleeping bag required (rental $15 USD)
  • Hostel in Aguas Calientes (Day 2): Private bathrooms, hot showers, Wi-Fi; double and triple occupancy options

Duffel Bag Service Support team transports up to 7 kg of personal items on horses between overnight locations, allowing you to hike with only a daypack.

Muleteers and Horses Teams transport all camping equipment, food, and cargo throughout the trek.

Machu Picchu Admission Permit & Guided Tour Permit included with access to preferred circuits (Circuit 2 or 2-B recommended). 2-hour guided exploration with specialist guide, plus 30 minutes personal time. Book 3–4 months in advance for best circuits.

Return Journey Options

  • Train: Departs 2:30–3:20 PM to Ollantaytambo (1.5 hrs), then vehicle to Cusco (2 hrs). Arrival ~6:30 PM at Plaza Regocijo
  • Vehicle: 3-hour hike to hydroelectric station, depart 3:00 PM, 6–7 hour drive to Cusco (~10:00 PM). Valid only for 6:00–9:00 AM ticket times

Complimentary Services

  • Luggage storage at main office (4:30 AM–10:00 PM daily)
  • Emergency provisions (oxygen, first aid kit)

Not Included

Salkantay Entrance Permit 20 soles (~$6 USD) for foreign visitors; 10 soles (~$3 USD) for Peruvian nationals. Paid in cash at trek entrance on Day 1.

Sleeping Bag Rental $15 USD for entire trek (rated to -10°C). Available if not brought.

Trekking Poles $15 USD rental for entire trek. Highly recommended for steep terrain.

Drinking Water Bottled water not included during hikes. Purchase mineral water (5–12 soles per 2.5L bottle) along the trail, or bring water filter/purification tablets.

Internet & Cell Signal No cell signal Day 1 until afternoon. Wi-Fi at second camp: 10 soles. Full connectivity returns after Day 3.

Showers & Restrooms

  • Restrooms free at camps; locals may charge 1 sol along route
  • Hot showers: Day 2 (10 soles), Day 3 (hot springs option), Day 4 Aguas Calientes
  • Day 1: No showers due to cold temperatures

Gratuities Optional; not mandatory. Fair wages provided by operator.

Travel Insurance Not included. Highly recommended to purchase comprehensive coverage in your home country, including emergency evacuation, given the remote terrain and limited medical facilities.

Pricing

2025 & 2026 Season

GROUP SERVICE PRICING

Option 1: Return to Cusco by Car

CategoryPrice per PersonRequirements
Student$320 USDValid student ID required
Child$320 USDAges 8–17 years
Adult$340 USD—

Option 2: Return to Cusco by Train

CategoryPrice per PersonRequirements
Student$385 USDValid student ID required
Child$385 USDAges 8–17 years
Adult$405 USD—

STUDENT PRICING ELIGIBILITY

  • Available to students under 25 years old
  • Valid student ID required
  • Specific conditions must be met to qualify
  • Review the provided link for full requirements

SHARED SERVICE PRICING

Return OptionPrice per Person
By Bus$320 USD
By Train$405 USD

TOUR ADD-ONS & UPGRADES

ItemPrice
Sleeping Bag (full trek)+$15 USD
Trekking Poles (1 pair)+$15 USD
Vistadome Train Upgrade+$45 USD

Travel Guide

FAQs

What to Bring

ESSENTIALS

  • Original valid passport
  • Student ID (if applicable)
  • Small, ergonomic daypack
  • 1.5–2 liters water storage (Camelbak recommended)
  • Lightweight hiking boots with good traction
  • Headlamp for visibility during early or late hours

Note: Horses transport up to 7 kg of gear in a duffel bag, including your sleeping bag.

CLOTHING

  • 2–3 moisture-wicking t-shirts
  • 2–3 pairs of hiking pants
  • 3 sets undergarments and hiking socks
  • 1 fleece jacket and 1 warm down jacket for cold nights
  • 1 rain jacket and pants for unpredictable weather
  • 1 sun hat and 1 wool hat for varying temperatures
  • Comfortable camp shoes and sturdy walking boots

GEAR

  • Waterproof/ski gloves
  • Waterproof jacket or rain poncho for heavy rain
  • Quick-dry towel (larger than provided, if preferred)
  • Small soap bottle for personal hygiene
  • Battery charger (limited power sources on trail)
  • Large plastic bags for organizing and protecting items
  • Sleeping bag rated for at least -10°C for cold nights

TOILETRIES

  • Sunscreen and face moisturizer for skin protection
  • Bug spray and hand sanitizer for hygiene
  • Wet wipes for quick clean-ups
  • Toothbrush and paste
  • Toilet paper
  • Personal medication and basic first aid kit

DAYPACK CONTENTS

(Note: Bags over 25L not permitted inside Machu Picchu; larger bags must be stored outside)

  • Water for first morning (refills provided later)
  • Rain gear and fleece for adaptable weather
  • Camera or smartphone
  • Music device (iPhone or similar) for entertainment
  • Hand sanitizer
  • Toilet paper and small plastic bag for waste management
  • Extra cash for purchases and gratuities
  • Earplugs for restful sleep

PACKING TIPS

  • Waterproofing: Protect all items from rain and dampness
  • Comfort: Wear well-fitted, broken-in footwear to prevent blisters
  • Organization: Use daypack compartments to keep essentials accessible

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To check availability for any of our services, please contact us at  info@salkantayadventures.com or via WhatsApp at +51 974 217 700 or +51 974 217 700

We’ll be happy to provide detailed information, rates, and booking conditions.

We offer special discounts for groups, and all our tours are fully guaranteed with daily departures.
Feel free to get in touch for more details about your preferred experience or to start creating a personalized travel itinerary based on your interests.

Wiñay Peru Adventure is a trusted travel agency based in Cusco, Peru, dedicated to offering authentic and memorable experiences throughout the region.

Whether you’re seeking a family adventure, a romantic escape, or a nature-filled journey, our professional team ensures comfort, quality, and a genuine connection with local culture and traditions.

NOTE: At Wiñay Peru Adventure, we specialize in custom-made travel experiences across Peru.
With access to exclusive deals and carefully selected partner hotels, we can help you design your perfect itinerary.
For assistance with your tailor-made package, don’t hesitate to contact us anytime.

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