Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu 3 Days
- 3 Day
- Challenging
- 4.99 (500 + reviews)
tour highlights
Humantay Lake
Salkantay Pass
Cloud Forest
Santa Teresa
Machu Picchu
3-Day Trek
Salkantay Trek 3 Days / 2 Nights to Machu Picchu – Overview
Experience an unforgettable Salkantay Trek 3 Days / 2 Nights to Machu Picchu, a challenging adventure through some of the most spectacular landscapes in the Peruvian Andes. This shorter version of the classic Salkantay route is ideal for travelers who want to experience the highlights of the trek while combining high-altitude mountains, tropical valleys, and the ancient Inca citadel of Machu Picchu.
During the journey, you’ll travel from Cusco to Soraypampa, admire the breathtaking Humantay Lake, cross the impressive Salkantay Pass at approximately 4,630 m (15,190 ft), and descend through the cloud forest toward Chaullay, Santa Teresa, and Hydroelectric Station.
The adventure continues with a scenic walk along the railway tracks to Aguas Calientes, the gateway to Machu Picchu. On the final day, you’ll enjoy a guided tour of Machu Picchu, discovering its most important temples, plazas, and archaeological sectors before returning to Cusco by train and tourist transportation.
The 3-Day Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu offers an excellent combination of adventure, breathtaking scenery, Andean culture, and Inca history in a shorter itinerary.
Duration
3 Days / 2 NightsDifficulty
ChallengingStarting Point
Cusco HotelAltitude
4,630 m / 15,190 ft (Salkantay Pass)Group Size
Small GroupsLanguage
English & SpanishTransportation
Tourist Transportation IncludedGuide
Professional Trekking GuideSalkantay Trek 3 Days / 2 Nights – Itinerary
Day 1: Cusco – Mollepata – Soraypampa – Salkantay Pass – Chaullay
Your Salkantay Trek 3 Days to Machu Picchu begins early in the morning with hotel pickup in Cusco between 4:30 AM and 5:00 AM. Travel by tourist transportation toward Mollepata, where you'll stop for breakfast and complete the necessary entrance arrangements.
Mollepata – Breakfast
After leaving Cusco, arrive in Mollepata for breakfast. Enjoy the surrounding Andean landscapes before continuing toward Soraypampa, the starting point of the trek.
Soraypampa – Salkantay Pass
From Soraypampa at 3,900 m / 12,795 ft, begin the challenging ascent toward the impressive Salkantay Pass at 4,630 m / 15,190 ft, the highest point of the trek. Enjoy spectacular panoramic views of Salkantay Mountain and the surrounding snow-capped peaks.
Salkantay Pass – Wayracpunku – Chaullay
After spending time at the pass, begin the descent through Wayracpunku toward Chaullay at approximately 2,900 m / 9,514 ft. As you descend, the landscape gradually changes from high-altitude mountains to greener and warmer valleys.
Arrive at Chaullay at approximately 6:30 PM, where you'll enjoy dinner and spend the night at the campsite.
Day 2: Chaullay – Collpapampa – La Playa – Santa Teresa – Hydroelectric – Aguas Calientes
Start the second day around 6:00 AM with breakfast before continuing your descent through the lush high jungle and cloud forest toward Aguas Calientes.
Chaullay – Collpapampa
As you leave Chaullay, the landscape becomes increasingly green and tropical. Along the route, you'll have opportunities to observe local flora, fruit plantations, coffee farms, and the diverse vegetation of the region.
La Playa – Santa Teresa
Continue toward La Playa and Santa Teresa, an area known for its coffee plantations and tropical fruit production. Enjoy the changing scenery as the high Andes transition into the warmer cloud forest.
Santa Teresa – Hydroelectric Station
From Santa Teresa, take tourist transportation toward the Hydroelectric Station, where you'll stop for lunch before beginning the final hike of the day.
Hydroelectric Station – Aguas Calientes
After lunch, begin the approximately 3-hour hike along the railway tracks following the Urubamba River Valley. This scenic route leads to Aguas Calientes at 2,040 m / 6,693 ft, the town located at the base of Machu Picchu.
Upon arrival, check into your accommodation and rest before the following day's visit to Machu Picchu.
Day 3: Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu – Ollantaytambo – Cusco
The most anticipated day of your Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu has arrived. Visit the legendary Machu Picchu Citadel with your professional guide before beginning your return journey to Cusco.
Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu
Start your morning around 4:00 AM if you choose to hike from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu. The hike takes approximately 1.5 hours. Alternatively, you can take the shuttle bus from Aguas Calientes, with the first services beginning early in the morning.
Guided Tour of Machu Picchu
Once you arrive at Machu Picchu at 2,430 m / 7,972 ft, enter the archaeological sanctuary according to the circuit and entrance time assigned to your ticket.
Your professional guide will lead you through the ancient Inca citadel for approximately 2 hours, visiting important areas such as the Temple of the Sun, Intihuatana, Sacred Plaza, and Guardian's House while explaining the history, architecture, and cultural significance of Machu Picchu.
Free Time & Return to Aguas Calientes
After the guided tour, depending on your entrance ticket and availability, you may have additional time to explore or visit Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain with a previously reserved ticket.
After your visit, return to Aguas Calientes to have lunch and prepare for your return journey.
Train to Ollantaytambo – Return to Cusco
Board your scheduled train from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo. Upon arrival, our tourist transportation will be waiting to take you back to Cusco, with an estimated arrival at approximately 9:30 PM.
This marks the end of your unforgettable 3-Day Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu.
Inclusions
What's Included in the Salkantay Trek 3 Days
- Hotel pickup in Cusco.
- Tourist transportation from Cusco to Soraypampa.
- Professional English- and Spanish-speaking guide.
- Meals during the trek: 2 breakfasts, 2 lunches, and 2 dinners.
- 1 night of camping in Chaullay.
- 1 night accommodation in Aguas Calientes.
- Entrance ticket to Machu Picchu.
- Professional guided tour of Machu Picchu.
- Tourist transportation from Ollantaytambo to Cusco.
- Return train from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo.
What's Not Included
- Breakfast on the first day.
- Lunch and dinner on the final day.
- Entrance to Humantay Lake, if applicable to the selected itinerary.
- Bus ticket to and from Machu Picchu.
- Entrance ticket to Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain.
- Sleeping bag.
- Additional horse for personal luggage.
- Personal expenses and other services not mentioned in the itinerary.
Recommendations for the Salkantay Trek 3 Days
- Spend at least one day acclimatizing in Cusco before starting the trek.
- Bring appropriate clothing for both cold and warm weather.
- Wear comfortable and durable trekking boots.
- Carry a rain poncho or waterproof jacket.
- Bring sunscreen, sunglasses, and insect repellent.
- Carry a flashlight or headlamp with spare batteries.
- Bring a reusable water bottle and water purification tablets.
- Carry energy snacks and some cash in Peruvian soles.
- Bring your passport or valid identification document.
- Reserve Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain tickets in advance if you wish to visit them.
- Inform your tour operator about any pre-existing medical conditions before the trek.
- Respect the environment, local communities, and regulations along the Salkantay Trek.
Frequently Asked Questions
The best time to do the 3-Day Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu is generally from May to October, during Peru's dry season. These months usually offer less rainfall, clearer mountain views, and better trail conditions. However, temperatures can be very cold at high elevations, especially near Salkantay Pass, so warm trekking clothing is essential.
We recommend spending at least 2 days acclimatizing in Cusco before beginning the trek. The route reaches approximately 4,630 m (15,190 ft) at Salkantay Pass, so allowing your body time to adjust to the altitude is important. Stay hydrated, walk at a comfortable pace, and follow your professional guide's recommendations throughout the trek.
The Salkantay Trek 3 Days is considered a challenging trekking adventure. The most demanding section is the ascent to Salkantay Pass at approximately 4,630 m (15,190 ft). The route includes long hiking days, steep ascents and descents, and significant changes in altitude and climate. Good physical fitness and proper acclimatization are strongly recommended.
The highest point of the 3-Day Salkantay Trek is Salkantay Pass, located at approximately 4,630 m (15,190 ft) above sea level. From the pass, you'll enjoy impressive panoramic views of Salkantay Mountain and the surrounding snow-capped peaks before beginning the descent toward the warmer valleys.
Weather conditions change considerably depending on altitude. Near Soraypampa and Salkantay Pass, temperatures can be very cold, while the lower sections toward Chaullay, Santa Teresa, and Aguas Calientes are warmer and more humid. We recommend wearing several layers so you can adapt to changing temperatures throughout the trek.
During the first night, you'll stay at Chaullay Camp. On the second night, you'll stay at a hotel in Aguas Calientes, the town located at the base of Machu Picchu. Accommodation may vary depending on the service selected, so we recommend confirming the exact accommodation details when booking.
Yes, depending on your Machu Picchu entrance ticket and availability. Huayna Picchu and Machu Picchu Mountain require additional tickets and must be reserved in advance. These hikes require additional physical effort, so consider your fitness level and the time available on your Machu Picchu visit.
We recommend bringing waterproof trekking boots, warm layers, thermal clothing, a rain jacket or poncho, sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat, insect repellent, a reusable water bottle, personal medications, and energy snacks. You should also bring your original passport, which is required for your Machu Picchu entrance and train services. A comfortable daypack is recommended for carrying your daily essentials.
The Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu can generally be operated throughout the year. However, weather conditions vary by season. The dry season from May to October usually offers better hiking conditions, while the rainy season can bring heavier rainfall, muddy trails, and reduced visibility.
Previous high-altitude trekking experience is helpful but is not strictly required. However, you should have a good level of physical fitness and be comfortable walking for several hours at altitude. Your professional trekking guide will accompany you throughout the route and help you maintain a safe and manageable pace.
$260 USD
Por qué reservar con nosotros
- Operador turístico local
- Guías profesionales licenciados
- Experiencia en grupos pequeños
- Mejor precio garantizado
- Soporte 24/7
Salkantay Trek 3 Dias
Descripción
El Salkantay Trek 3D/2N es una desafiante y emocionante caminata en los Andes peruanos, ubicada en la región de Cusco. Este recorrido atraviesa paisajes impresionantes, desde altas montañas cubiertas de nieve hasta valles verdes con abundante vegetación. La ruta se encuentra a los pies del majestuoso nevado Salkantay, una de las montañas más imponentes de la zona. Durante el trekking, los viajeros experimentan cambios de altitud significativos y diferentes ecosistemas, disfrutando de vistas panorámicas inolvidables.
Día 1: Cusco – Soraypampa – Paso Salkantay – Chaullay
El recorrido comienza alrededor de las 04:30 a 05:00 am, con el recojo desde los hoteles en Cuzco para partir en movilidad turística hacia Mollepata, donde se toma el desayuno y se paga el ingreso. Luego, se sigue hacia Soraypampa (3,900 m snm), el punto de inicio de la caminata. En el camino, se aprecia la majestuosidad de los Andes y la impresionante Laguna Humantay. Desde Soraypampa comienza la caminata hacia el Paso Salkantay (4,630 m snm), el punto más alto del trek, rodeado de imponentes montañas nevadas como el Apu Salkantay. Luego, el descenso pasa por el sector de Wayracpunku hasta llegar a Chaullay (2,900 m snm), donde se pasa la noche en un campamento, con llegada aproximadamente a las 18:30 pm.
Día 2: Chaullay – La Playa – Hidroeléctrica – Aguas Calientes
El segundo día comienza temprano, alrededor de las 06:00 am , con un descenso por la selva alta, apreciando la flora y fauna de la región. Se atraviesan localidades como Collpapampa , donde los valles se tornan verdes y cálidos. Se continúa hacia La Playa y luego a Santa Teresa, una zona conocida por sus plantaciones de café y frutas tropicales. Desde aquí, se toma un transporte hacia la Hidroeléctrica, donde se almuerza y se puede ver una parte del sistema de energía que abastece a Cuzco. Después del almuerzo, se inicia una caminata de aproximadamente 3 horas por las vías del tren hasta Aguas Calientes (2,040 m snm), con llegada entre las 17:30 y 18:00 pm, donde se descansará en un hospedaje antes del gran día en Machu Picchu.
Día 3: Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu – Cuzco
El día final comienza a las 04:00 am , iniciando la caminata hacia la ciudadela de Machu Picchu (2,430 m snm) , o bien, tomando el bus que parte desde las 05:30 am para llegar a la entrada alrededor de las 06:00 am . Se disfruta de una visita guiada de aproximadamente 2 horas, explorando lugares icónicos como el Templo del Sol, el Intihuatana, la Plaza Sagrada y la Casa del Guardián . Posteriormente, se tiene tiempo libre para recorrer por cuenta propia o ascender a Huayna Picchu o la Montaña Machu Picchu (según disponibilidad). Al finalizar, se regresa a Aguas Calientes para abordar el tren de retorno a Ollantaytambo , desde donde se toma un transporte a Cuzco, con llegada alrededor de las 21:30 pm .
INCLUYE
- Recojo del hotel en Cuzco.
- Transporte en bus Cuzco – Soraypampa.
- Guía profesional en español/inglés.
- Alimentación (2 desayunos, 2 almuerzos y 2 cenas).
- 1 noche de campamento en Chaullay.
- 1 noche de hospedaje en Aguas Calientes.
- Boleto de ingreso a Machu Picchu.
- Visita guiada en Machu Picchu.
- Transporte de Hidroeléctrica a Aguas Calientes (opcional).
- Tren de retorno Aguas Calientes – Ollantaytambo.
- Transporte Ollantaytambo – Cuzco.
NO INCLUYE
- Desayuno el primer día.
- Almuerzo y cena el último día.
- Ingreso a la Laguna Humantay (opcional).
- Bus de subida/bajada a Machu Picchu (opcional).
- Ingreso a Huayna Picchu o Montaña Machu Picchu.
- Bolsa de dormir.
- Caballo extra para equipaje personal.
- Gastos personales y propios.
RECOMENDACIONES
- Aclimatarse en Cuzco al menos 1 día antes de la caminata.
- Lleve ropa adecuada para frío y calor.
- Usar botas de trekking resistentes.
- Porta poncho o chaqueta impermeable.
- Lleve bloqueador solar y repelente de insectos.
- Tener linterna y baterías de repuesto.
- Contar con botella de agua y pastillas purificadoras.
- Llevar snacks energéticos y dinero en efectivo.
- Porta pasaporte o documento de identidad.
- Reservar con anticipación el ingreso a Huayna Picchu o Montaña Machu Picchu.
- Informar sobre condiciones médicas preexistentes.
- Respetar el medio ambiente y las normas del camino.
Preguntas Frecuentes
¿Cuál es la mejor época para hacer el Salkantay Trek de 3 días y 2 noches?
La mejor época es de abril a octubre, durante la temporada seca, cuando hay menos lluvias y mejores vistas. En estos meses, los senderos están en mejores condiciones, lo que facilita la caminata. Sin embargo, debido a la altitud, las noches pueden ser frías, por lo que es recomendable llevar ropa térmica y adecuada para el clima.
¿Es necesario aclimatarse antes del tour?
Sí, es recomendable pasar al menos 2 días en Cusco o en un lugar de altitud similar antes de iniciar la caminata. Esto ayuda a reducir los efectos del mal de altura, como el dolor de cabeza o la fatiga. Además, se sugiere mantenerse bien hidratado, evitar el alcohol y consumir infusiones de hoja de coca para facilitar la aclimatación.
¿Cómo es el clima durante el Salkantay Trek?
El clima varía según la altitud y la estación del año. En la parte alta, cerca del paso Salkantay, las temperaturas pueden descender por debajo de los 0°C por la noche, mientras que en zonas más bajas, como Aguas Calientes, el clima es más cálido y húmedo. Es fundamental llevar ropa adecuada en capas para adaptarse a estos cambios.
¿Cómo se maneja la altitud en el Salkantay Trek?
La altitud es un factor importante, ya que el punto más alto del trek es el Abra Salkantay (4,650 m snm). Para prevenir el mal de altura, es recomendable una buena aclimatación, caminar a un ritmo constante, mantenerse hidratado y consumir té de coca. También se pueden llevar pastillas para el soroche en caso de necesitarlo.
¿Es posible ducharse durante la caminata?
En la mayoría de los campamentos, las duchas son limitadas y, en algunos casos, el agua es fría. Algunos alojamientos en Aguas Calientes tienen duchas con agua caliente, por lo que muchos viajeros prefieren esperar hasta el último día. Se recomienda llevar toallitas húmedas para la higiene personal durante el recorrido.
Nuestros Clientes Opinan
3D/2N
PRECIO DESDE
$ 260.00
por persona
Lugares para visitar:
Cusco, Soraypampa, Chaullay, Hidroelectrica, Aguas Calientes, Machu Picchu.
El viaje comienza en:
Cusco en tu hotel
Tamaño de Grupo:
14
Nivel Fisico:
1
Estilo del Tour:
1
Distancia Recorrida:
51 Km
Salidas:
Salidas diarias
Comidas:
2N, 3D, 3B, 2L, 2D