4-Day Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu Including Sky Camp Stay
by Salkantay Trekking
Overview
This 4-day short Salkantay trek begins with a hotel pickup in Cusco and a pre-departure briefing. The route starts near Soraypampa and passes Humantay Lake before climbing toward Salkantay Mountain. The trek covers rugged Andean terrain and descends toward the edge of the Cloud Forest. One night is spent at the Sky Camp, where guests stay in igloo-style tents designed for stargazing. Another night is at Mountain Sky View camp, and the final night is in a hotel. Meals are included daily except for lunch and dinner on the last day. Breakfast, lunch, dinner, water, tea time, and snacks are provided on the trail. The trek is led by experienced mountain guides, supported by cooks and porters who carry up to 5 kilograms (11 pounds) of personal gear per person. Private camping facilities include dining rooms, kitchens, tables, and chairs. The tour includes entrance fees for the Salkantay trail, Humantay Lake, and Machu Picchu (Circuit 2, or Circuit 1 or 3 if Circuit 2 is unavailable). Travelers use private transport throughout the itinerary and take the Tourist Class Train (Expedition or The Voyager) between Ollantaytambo and Aguas Calientes. A one-way bus ticket from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu is included. The itinerary also features a visit to a local coffee farm for cultural interaction. Optional add-ons include horseback rides on Day 1 or Day 2, a train transfer from Hidroelectrica to Aguas Calientes, and hikes up Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu mountains for an additional fee. Participants should be in good physical condition and arrive in Cusco at least two days before the trek to acclimate to the altitude.
Highlights
What's included
What's not included
Itinerary
Accommodation Pickup
The day starts with a 5:00 a.m. pickup from the accommodation, followed by a transfer to Mollepata.
150 min
Breakfast in Mollepata
Upon arrival in Mollepata, an energizing breakfast is provided before proceeding to Challacancha, the hike's starting point.
60 min
Hike to Soraypampa Camp
After approximately three hours of hiking alongside an ancient Inca canal, the group reaches Soraypampa at 3,900 m (12,795 ft), where the Sky Camp is located and a freshly prepared lunch is served.
180 min
Humantay Lake Visit
In the afternoon, the trek continues with an ascent to Humantay Lake, known for its turquoise waters that reflect the sacred glaciers.
180 min
Return to Camp
After enjoying the surroundings, the group returns to camp for dinner and overnight rest under the night sky.
600 min
Breakfast and Ascent to Abra Salkantay
The day begins with coca tea and a high-energy breakfast before starting the climb to Abra Salkantay at 4,630 m (15,190 ft), the trek's highest point.
60 min
Summit Views and Lunch
At the summit, views of the Salkantay, Humantay, and Pumasillo mountains are observed; these peaks were sacred apus to the ancient Incas. Afterwards, the group descends to Huayracmachay for lunch.
240 min
Cloud Forest Trek to Collpapampa
The hike continues through the cloud forest where the environment changes from snowy to tropical, passing lush vegetation before arriving at Collpapampa.
60 min
Dinner at Mountain Sky View Camp
In Collpapampa, dinner is served followed by a night’s rest at the Mountain Sky View Camp.
600 min
Hike through Santa Teresa Valley
Starting at 6:00 a.m., a nutritious breakfast is followed by a five-hour hike through Santa Teresa Valley, featuring rivers, waterfalls, wild orchids, and plantations of coffee, banana, and avocado. The cock-of-the-rock bird may be spotted.
120 min
Granadilla to La Playa Coffee Farm
After arriving in Granadilla, a private vehicle will transport the group to La Playa where they will explore an organic coffee farm and discover the full process from harvesting to beans ready for export. Following this educational visit, lunch will be provided before the trip continues to the Hidroelectrica train station.
120 min
Walk to Aguas Calientes
From Hidroelectrica, the route continues on foot along a vegetated path until arriving at Aguas Calientes.
180 min
Aguas Calientes Arrival
Upon arrival in Aguas Calientes, guests check into their hotel, have free time to relax in the hot springs, and dine at a local restaurant before resting.
660 min
Early Bus to Machu Picchu
The day starts with an early wake-up and a light breakfast. Then, guests board the earliest buses departing Aguas Calientes heading to Machu Picchu, aiming to reach the site ahead of the crowds and witness the sunrise over the ancient Inca ruins.
120 min
Guided Machu Picchu Tour
A two-hour guided tour covers temples, terraces, and sacred enclosures. Guests may choose to hike Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain with advance reservation.
120 min
Lunch and Train to Ollantaytambo
After the tour, guests return to Aguas Calientes for lunch before taking the train to Ollantaytambo.
180 min
Transport to Cusco
Private transportation will be available at Ollantaytambo to return guests to Cusco.
Languages
Cancellation policy
- All sales are final. No refund is available for cancellations.
Additional info
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