Salkantay Trek 3 Days
Challenging
Group/Private
4650 m.s.n.m
+12 People
Salkantay Trek 3 Days to Machu Picchu
The Salkantay Trek 3 Days to Machu Picchu is the short but intense version of the classic Salkantay route, designed for travelers with limited time who still want to experience the magic of the Andes. During three days you will walk through breathtaking landscapes that combine snow-capped mountains, turquoise lakes, and tropical forests before arriving at the wonder of the world: Machu Picchu.
This 3-day adventure is ideal for hikers in good physical condition who seek a challenging and rewarding experience. You will cross the famous Salkantay Pass, enjoy the beauty of the high Andes, and end your journey with an unforgettable guided tour of the Inca citadel of Machu Picchu.
The Salkantay Trek 3 Days offers you the chance to live the best of the Andes in a short time. Along the route, you will admire the sacred Salkantay Mountain (6,271 m), explore the turquoise Humantay Lake, and walk across valleys that reveal both the power of the glaciers and the lushness of the Peruvian jungle.
This trek is not only about nature but also about culture. You will pass through Andean communities, plantations of coffee, fruits, and coca, and witness the way of life of the locals. Every step combines adventure, culture, and breathtaking landscapes until you finally reach the mystical sanctuary of Machu Picchu.
Overview
The Salkantay Trek 3 Days to Machu Picchu covers approximately 46 km (28 miles), connecting high-altitude mountain passes with lush cloud forests. It is a short yet challenging tour, perfect for travelers who wish to experience the essence of the Andes in less time.
With expert local guides, safe transportation, delicious meals, and overnight stays in mountain camps and Aguas Calientes, this trek offers everything you need. On the final day, you will explore Machu Picchu, one of the most extraordinary archaeological sites in the world.
Highlights of the Salkantay Trek 3 Days
- Humantay Lake: Discover this stunning turquoise lagoon at the base of the Humantay glacier.
- Salkantay Pass (4,650 m): Cross one of the highest and most spectacular passes in the Peruvian Andes.
- Changing landscapes: Walk from snow-capped mountains to lush tropical jungle in just three days.
- Collpapampa & Lucmabamba: Visit traditional Andean villages and coffee plantations.
- Local agriculture: Experience the richness of coffee and fruit crops in the cloud forest.
- Aguas Calientes: Relax in the gateway town to Machu Picchu.
- Machu Picchu guided tour: Explore the temples, terraces, and mysteries of the Inca citadel.
- Short but intense trek: Perfect option for travelers who want a full experience in less time.
Itinerary at a Glance
- Day 1: Cusco – Soraypampa – Collpapampa. Visit Humantay Lake, cross the Salkantay Pass, and descend to Collpapampa.
- Day 2: Collpapampa – Lucmabamba – Hidroelectrica – Aguas Calientes. Explore the cloud forest and coffee plantations before reaching Aguas Calientes.
- Day 3: Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu – Cusco. Sunrise at Machu Picchu with a guided tour before returning to Cusco.
Detailed Itinerary: Salkantay Trek 3 Days
Day 1: Cusco – Soraypampa – Humantay Lake – Salkantay Pass – Collpapampa
Your journey begins early in the morning with a transfer from Cusco to Soraypampa, where the adventure officially starts. The first stop of the day will be the beautiful Humantay Lake, famous for its turquoise waters framed by snow-capped mountains. After enjoying this magical place, the trail continues uphill toward the impressive Salkantay Pass (4,650 m / 15,255 ft), the highest point of the trek. Here, you will be rewarded with panoramic views of the majestic Salkantay Mountain (6,271 m / 20,574 ft), considered sacred in Andean culture.
Once you have crossed the pass, the landscape changes dramatically. You will descend from the icy peaks into a greener valley surrounded by waterfalls and native vegetation. The day ends at the campsite in Collpapampa, where you will rest while listening to the sound of the river and prepare for the next stage of the trek.
- Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
- Accommodation: Campsite in Collpapampa
- Distance: 22 km / 13.7 miles
- Time: 8–9 hours approx.
- Difficulty: Challenging
Day 2: Collpapampa – Cloud Forest – Lucmabamba – Hidroelectrica – Aguas Calientes
After a nourishing breakfast, you will continue your trek along the lush cloud forest, one of the most biodiverse ecosystems in Peru. The route is filled with waterfalls, orchids, and plantations of fruits and medicinal plants. In Lucmabamba, you will have the opportunity to visit a traditional coffee farm and taste a freshly prepared cup of organic Peruvian coffee, grown and roasted by local families.
From Lucmabamba, the trail gradually descends toward Hidroelectrica, where you will walk along the railway surrounded by jungle scenery until reaching Aguas Calientes. This charming town, located at the base of Machu Picchu, offers comfortable hotels and restaurants where you can relax and recover your energy before the highlight of the trip.
- Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
- Accommodation: Hotel in Aguas Calientes
- Distance: 18 km / 11.1 miles
- Time: 7–8 hours approx.
- Difficulty: Moderate
Day 3: Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu – Cusco
The most awaited moment has arrived! Very early, you will take the bus (or hike) up to the entrance of the legendary Machu Picchu. At sunrise, you will witness the ancient Inca city emerging from the morning mist — an unforgettable and magical view. Your expert guide will lead you through the most important temples, plazas, and terraces while explaining the fascinating history and mysteries of this UNESCO World Heritage Site.
After the guided tour, you will have free time to continue exploring Machu Picchu at your own pace. For those who have booked in advance, there is the option to climb Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain for even more spectacular views. Later, you will return to Aguas Calientes to board the train back to Cusco, where this incredible 3-day adventure comes to an end.
- Meals included: Breakfast
- Accommodation: Not included
- Distance: 6 km / 3.7 miles (approx. inside Machu Picchu)
- Time: 3–4 hours guided tour + free time
- Difficulty: Moderate
What’s Included in the Salkantay Trek 3 Days
Accommodation
Experience comfort even in the middle of the mountains. On the first night, you will stay in a cozy private dome at Collpapampa designed for 2 travelers, offering privacy and warmth. The second night is spent in a comfortable 2-star hotel in Aguas Calientes, equipped with Wi-Fi, hot showers, private bathrooms, and an early breakfast service. If desired, you can upgrade to a higher category hotel for an enhanced experience.
Meals
All meals mentioned in the itinerary are included: 3 breakfasts, 2 lunches, and 2 dinners. A professional chef and support team will prepare delicious fresh meals in our dining tent. We can accommodate dietary needs such as vegetarian, vegan, or gluten-free menus if requested in advance. Enjoy a traditional coca tea every morning and boiled water for tea and coffee during mealtimes.
Transportation
- Private transfer from your hotel in Cusco to the trek starting point at Soraypampa.
- Local transport from Lucmabamba to Hidroelectrica.
- Private bus from the Hidroeléctrica station back to Cusco, with the final destination at Plaza Regocijo.
Guides and Support Team
Travel with a bilingual professional guide (English/Spanish) with a minimum of 3 years of experience. Our staff includes horsemen and pack animals to carry camping gear and cooking equipment. All guides are trained in first aid and carry an emergency oxygen tank. Before the trek, you’ll receive a duffel bag (5 kg limit per person) to carry your belongings.
Additional Services
- Pre-departure briefing at our Cusco office one day before the trek (between 5:00 and 7:00 pm).
- Entrance tickets to Machu Picchu and the Salkantay Trail.
- High-quality camping equipment: dining tent, kitchen tent, and cooking utensils.
What’s Not Included
Meals
- Lunch and dinner on the last day in Aguas Calientes or Cusco.
- Personal snacks and bottled water during the hike (boiled water provided only during meals).
Transportation
- Train ticket from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo (book in advance)
- Bus ticket to Machu Picchu (CONSETTUR)
Equipment
- Sleeping bag rental: $25 USD per person (if you don’t bring your own).
- Trekking poles rental: $20 USD per person.
- Additional horse for extra personal luggage (over the 5 kg limit).
Optional Activities
- Entrance ticket to Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain: $60 USD per person (book in advance).
- Entrance to the Aguas Calientes hot springs.
Other Costs (Optional)
- Tips for guides, cooks, and support staff (at your discretion).
- Shuttle bus from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu entrance (optional, can also walk).
- National or international flights.
- Travel insurance (highly recommended).
- Any activities or services not explicitly mentioned in the itinerary.
🚆 Return Options to Cusco
🧳 Packing List for Your 3-Day Salkantay Trek
To fully enjoy your Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu, it’s essential to pack wisely. The Andes can bring unpredictable weather, so having the right gear will ensure your comfort and safety. Below, we’ve organized a complete list of what to bring in your daypack, duffel bag, and personal care kit for a smooth trekking experience.
As a trusted local operator, we provide a duffel bag and an extra horse to carry up to 7 kg (14 lbs) of your belongings, including your sleeping bag and mattress. You only need to carry a light daypack during the trek.
✅ Essential Documents & Basics
- Original passport (must match the one used for booking).
- Valid student ID card (if you booked with a student discount).
- Daypack (30–40L recommended, compact and comfortable).
- Reusable water container (2–3 liters capacity).
- Comfortable trekking boots with ankle support.
- Sleeping bag (-15ºC recommended, available for rent).
- Headlamp or flashlight (mandatory for nights).
- Toilet paper and personal hygiene supplies.
🎒 What to Pack in Your Duffel Bag
Your duffel will be transported by pack horses, so focus on bringing only what you need at camp.
- 1–2 lightweight t-shirts and 1 pair of trekking pants.
- 2 sets of underwear and 2 pairs of hiking socks.
- Thermals or fleece layers (depending on the season).
- Warm jacket or down jacket for cold nights.
- Gloves and warm hat for high-altitude nights.
- Comfortable shoes or sandals for the campsite.
- Quick-dry towel (we provide small ones, but larger is optional).
- Small bottle of personal soap (warm water provided daily).
- Battery charger or power bank (no electricity along the trek).
- Plastic liners for your duffel (we provide these at the office).
🧴 Toiletries & Personal Care
- Moisturizer and high-SPF sunscreen.
- Hand sanitizer and wet wipes.
- Toothbrush and toothpaste.
- Personal medications (bring enough for the entire trek).
- Small first aid kit (band-aids, blister treatment, etc.).
🎒 What to Carry in Your Daypack
This is the backpack you’ll carry while hiking each day, so keep it light but well-equipped with daily essentials.
- Water supply until the first lunch stop (then boiled water will be provided).
- Sun protection: hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen.
- Rain gear: poncho or waterproof jacket.
- Extra fleece or warm layer for changing weather.
- Wool hat and gloves for cold winds.
- Headlamp or flashlight.
- Energy snacks: chocolate, granola bars, dried fruit.
- Camera or phone for photos.
- Hand sanitizer, toilet paper, and a small waste bag.
- Extra cash for souvenirs, drinks, or tips.
🌟 Why Ausangate Trail?
At Ausangate Trail, we specialize in creating unforgettable trekking adventures through the Peruvian Andes. Our focus is to provide authentic journeys that connect travelers with breathtaking landscapes, vibrant culture, and the spirit of the mountains. Traveling with us means choosing a company that values sustainability, supports local communities, and guarantees safety at every step of the way. Discover why hikers from around the world trust Ausangate Trail:- ✔️ Expert Local Guides: Experienced professionals with deep knowledge of the Andes and Inca traditions.
- ✔️ Small Groups: Personalized attention and flexible itineraries for a better experience.
- ✔️ Sustainable Trekking: Respect for nature and support for Andean communities.
- ✔️ Certified Safety: First aid, oxygen, and trained staff on every trek.
- ✔️ Unique Routes: Exclusive itineraries combining Ausangate, Rainbow Mountain, and hidden gems.
- ✔️ 24/7 Assistance: Complete support before, during, and after your adventure.
🌟 Why Ausangate Trail?
At Ausangate Trail, we specialize in creating unforgettable trekking adventures through the
Peruvian Andes. Our focus is to provide authentic journeys that connect travelers with breathtaking landscapes,
vibrant culture, and the spirit of the mountains.
Traveling with us means choosing a company that values sustainability, supports local communities,
and guarantees safety at every step of the way. Discover why hikers from around the world trust Ausangate Trail:
✔️ Expert Local Guides: Experienced professionals with deep knowledge of the Andes and Inca traditions.
✔️ Small Groups: Personalized attention and flexible itineraries for a better experience.
✔️ Sustainable Trekking: Respect for nature and support for Andean communities.
✔️ Certified Safety: First aid, oxygen, and trained staff on every trek.
✔️ Unique Routes: Exclusive itineraries combining Ausangate, Rainbow Mountain, and hidden gems.
✔️ 24/7 Assistance: Complete support before, during, and after your adventure.
Travel Details
- Duration: 3 days / 2 night
- Average Group Size: +12 people
- Hiking Distance: 48 km / 30 miles
- Difficulty: Moderate to Challenging
- Activities: Trekking & Adventure
- Accommodation: Camping & hotel
What Our Travelers Say
Related post
Salkantay Trail: Complete Guide to the Best Alternative Trek to Machu Picchu
Salkantay Trail: Complete Guide to the Best Alternative Trek to Machu Picchu The Salkantay Trail is a stunning alternative trek to Machu Picchu, blending high Andean passes, turquoise lakes, cloud forest, and unforgettable views of the Inca citadel. Views of Mount Salkantay and the route to Machu Picchu. Why choose the Salkantay Trek? Recognized among the best alternative treks to
Cusco’s Best Kept Secrets: Hidden Gems You Won’t Want to Miss
Introduction to Cusco’s Hidden Gems Cusco, the ancient capital of the Inca Empire, is celebrated for its rich history, stunning architecture, and its role as the gateway to the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu. Yet beyond the classic highlights lies a world of hidden gems in Cusco waiting to be explored. These lesser-known attractions offer cultural, historical, and natural experiences
Join the Ausangate Trek Adventure: We Await You in Cusco!
Introduction to the Ausangate Trek The Ausangate Trek is renowned as one of the most breathtaking trekking experiences in Peru, captivating adventurers and nature enthusiasts alike. Spanning approximately 70 kilometers, this trek provides an immersive exploration of the stunning landscapes and diverse ecosystems of the Peruvian Andes. The journey circumnavigates the majestic Ausangate Mountain, which stands at an impressive 6,372
