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- Tripadvisor
- Contact US
- About US
- +51931631135
- +51 936 633 360
- Tripadvisor
- Contact US
- About US
Duration of the trip
PRICE FROM
Per person
Cusco, Soraypampa, Humantay Lake, Salkantay Pass, Chawllay, Santa Teresa, Aguas Calientes, Machu Picchu
Challenging
Cusco - Pick up from your hotel in Cusco
Hiking
Varies (max 16 people recommended)
55 KM (3 days)
The Salkantay Trek 3 Days is one of the best alternatives to the Classic Inca Trail, designed for experienced hikers or travelers looking for a short but intense adventure to Machu Picchu. This trek combines breathtaking Andean landscapes, ancient Inca trails, and the majestic Salkantay Mountain, considered the second-highest peak in Cusco at 6,271 m. If you’re short on time but still want to experience one of the top treks in Peru, this 3-day hike is the perfect option.
On the first day, you’ll hike up to the Salkantay Pass (4,650 m / 15,255 ft), one of the most spectacular viewpoints in the Andes. The second day brings the incredible Llactapata Trail, an authentic Inca path that offers a unique perspective of Machu Picchu from a hidden viewpoint—an unforgettable preview before you enter the citadel itself. The journey ends with the grand finale: a guided exploration of the Lost City of the Incas, Machu Picchu, one of the New 7 Wonders of the World.
This trek is not only a shorter version of the famous Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu, but also one of the best hiking experiences in Peru for those who want nature, culture, and adventure packed into just 3 days.
📅 How to Book the Salkantay Trek 3 Days with Machu Picchu Entrance
Booking your Salkantay Trek 3 Days has never been easier. Simply click the “BOOK NOW” button and check our real-time availability calendar. If your preferred date is available, it means that both your Salkantay Trek permit and Machu Picchu ticket are guaranteed for that day.
As soon as we confirm your booking, Wonderful Machu Picchu Reservation will secure your official Machu Picchu entrance tickets through the Peruvian Government platform (the only authorized seller). We always choose the best available circuits at the time of purchase, ensuring you have the most complete experience possible.
🎟️ Machu Picchu Circuits for the Salkantay Trek 3 Days
Machu Picchu offers several official visiting routes. Depending on availability, we prioritize in this order:
Option 1 – Llaqta Machupicchu / Circuit 2 (Classic Route 2-A): The most complete tour with the iconic postcard viewpoint and a full visit of the Inca citadel. (Most popular – book at least 4 months in advance). Photo & Video
Option 2 – Circuit 2-B (Lower Terrace): Similar to Option 1, with small variations in the urban sector. Photo & Video
Option 3 – Circuit 1-B (Panoramic Upper Route): Includes the famous panoramic viewpoint but not access to the full citadel. Photo & Video
Option 4 – Circuit 3-B (Royalty Route): Visits only the lower section of Machu Picchu without the classic viewpoint. Photo & Video
Option 5 – Circuit 1-A (Machu Picchu Mountain): Includes the mountain hike with panoramic views, but not the citadel. Photo & Video
Option 6 – Circuit 3-A (Waynapicchu Mountain): Includes the Waynapicchu hike plus a short visit to the lower citadel. Photo & Video
👉 Check real-time availability directly on the official site: Machu Picchu Tickets – Peruvian Government.
Your adventure on the Salkantay Trek 3 Days to Machu Picchu begins very early. We will pick you up from your hotel in Cusco at 2:00 am and drive for about 3 hours to Soraypampa (3,900 m / 12,795 ft), the official starting point of the trek. This breathtaking valley, surrounded by snowy peaks, is the perfect gateway to the Andes and the Salkantay Trail.
From Soraypampa, we start hiking for about 1.5 hours to the stunning Humantay Lake, a turquoise jewel nestled at the foot of the Humantay Glacier. Here, your professional guide will explain the importance of this sacred lake in Inca cosmology. You’ll have time for photos, meditation, and enjoying the serene beauty of one of the most photographed lakes in Peru.
After this visit, we continue hiking for about 1.5 hours to our exclusive Salkantay Pampa Camp, where you will enjoy a hearty and energizing breakfast while surrounded by panoramic views of the mountains.
The journey continues with a challenging 2.5-hour ascent to the Salkantay Pass (4,650 m / 15,255 ft), the highest point of the trek and one of the most breathtaking viewpoints in the Andes. Here, you’ll marvel at the mighty Apu Salkantay, the second-highest mountain in Cusco, and feel the energy of the sacred Apus (Andean mountain spirits).
From the pass, we descend for about 2 hours to Wayracmachay, where a delicious lunch will be waiting for you. Recharged, we hike another 3 hours down into the lush cloud forest, a dramatic change of scenery where the Andean highlands give way to green valleys and waterfalls.
We arrive at Chaullay Camp (2,900 m / 9,514 ft) in the late afternoon. Upon arrival, you’ll be welcomed with hot tea, followed by a freshly prepared dinner. Later, you’ll gather around a cozy Andean bonfire, where you’ll enjoy traditional stories, share experiences, and admire the incredible starry night from the comfort of our exclusive domes at Chaullay Camp.
✨ Overnight stay: Unique domes at Chaullay Camp, surrounded by nature and the sounds of the Andes.
🌄 Wake Up in the Andes with Coca Tea
We’ll wake you up at 6:00 am with a warm cup of traditional coca tea, the perfect start to another day of adventure on the Salkantay Trek 3 Days. After breakfast, we begin our descent through the spectacular Santa Teresa Valley, a lush region where the high Andes transition into the tropical cloud forest.
🌺 Trekking Through the Santa Teresa Valley
During this hike, you’ll encounter rivers, waterfalls, wild orchids, and plantations of coffee, bananas, avocados, granadillas, and many other exotic fruits. This part of the trail is one of the most beautiful sections of the Salkantay Trek, where you can appreciate both Andean and jungle ecosystems.
☕ Coffee Tour Experience
On the way, you’ll have the opportunity to participate in a Coffee Tour, where local families will teach you about the cultivation, roasting, and preparation of organic coffee. This cultural experience connects you with the traditions of the Santa Teresa Valley and lets you taste one of the best coffees in Peru.
🍴 Lunch at Hidroelectrica & Two Options to Reach Aguas Calientes
After reaching La Playa Sahuayaco, we take local transportation to Hidroelectrica, where a freshly prepared lunch awaits. From here, you can choose between two options:
🚆 Train to Aguas Calientes – If you feel tired, you can board the train directly to Aguas Calientes (extra cost: $33.00).
🚶 Hike to Aguas Calientes – If you still have energy, you can walk for about 3 hours along the train tracks, a scenic route with river views and glimpses of Machu Picchu Mountain.
🌙 Overnight in Aguas Calientes
Once in Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu Town), you’ll have time to relax and, if you wish, visit the famous hot springs (optional). In the evening, enjoy a delicious dinner at a local restaurant before spending the night in a comfortable hotel with private bathroom, hot shower, Wi-Fi, luggage storage, and breakfast/box lunch prepared for your Machu Picchu visit the next day.
✨ Overnight stay: Hotel in Aguas Calientes.
🌅 Sunrise Hike to Machu Picchu
Today is the highlight of your Salkantay Trek 3 Days adventure. We’ll wake you up around 4:00 am for an early breakfast (or box breakfast, depending on your schedule). At 4:30 am, we begin our hike up the ancient path to the Lost City of the Incas, Machu Picchu. Reaching the citadel early allows you to enjoy the magical sunrise and the breathtaking views with fewer crowds.
🏯 Guided Tour of Machu Picchu
At around 6:00 am, we enter the Machu Picchu Sanctuary, one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. Your expert guide will take you on a 2-hour guided tour through the most important temples, terraces, plazas, and sacred sites of the citadel, bringing to life the history and mysteries of the Inca Empire.
🗻 Optional Hikes: Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain
After the guided tour, you’ll have free time to explore on your own. For those with pre-booked tickets, you can hike Huayna Picchu Mountain or Machu Picchu Mountain, both offering spectacular panoramic views of the citadel and the surrounding Andes. These hikes are optional but highly recommended for travelers seeking extra adventure.
🚆 Return to Cusco: Bus or Train Options
Once your visit is complete, you’ll return to Cusco according to your booked option:
🚌 Bus Return via Hidroelectrica – Passengers taking the bus must return to Hidroelectrica by 3:00 pm. From there, the journey back to Cusco takes approximately 6 hours by private transport.
🚆 Train Return from Aguas Calientes – Passengers traveling by train should be at the station 30 minutes before departure. After a scenic train ride to Ollantaytambo, our private transport will be waiting to take you back to Cusco city, arriving in the evening.
✅ What’s Included in the Salkantay Trek 3 Days to Machu Picchu
Choosing our Salkantay Trek 3 Days package means traveling with everything you need for a safe, comfortable, and unforgettable experience. Here’s what’s included:
🚐 Transport & Transfers
Hotel pickup in Cusco.
Private transport from Cusco to Soraypampa (starting point of the trek).
Return transport from Ollantaytambo to Cusco (for train option).
Return transport from Hidroelectrica to Cusco (for bus option).
🎟️ Tickets & Entrance Fees
Official entrance ticket to Machu Picchu.
Guided tour of Machu Picchu with a professional, English-speaking guide.
🛏️ Accommodation
1 night in SKY DOME at our exclusive camp, under the stars.
1 night in a comfortable hostel in Aguas Calientes (private room, hot shower, Wi-Fi, breakfast included).
🍽️ Meals & Culinary Experience
2 breakfasts, 2 lunches, and 2 dinners prepared by our trekking chef.
Freshly prepared meals with Andean superfoods for energy.
Vegetarian and vegan options available at no extra cost.
Traditional afternoon tea (mate de coca, coffee, snacks) during camps.
🏕️ Trekking Services
Personal sleeping mat provided.
Professional cook at each campsite.
Pre-departure briefing the evening before (between 5:00 pm and 8:00 pm) at your hotel or our office.
🩺 Safety & Support
First aid kit and emergency oxygen available throughout the trek.
❌ What’s Not Included in the Salkantay Trek 3 Days to Machu Picchu
To help you plan your budget, here’s a clear list of what is not included in our Salkantay Trek 3 Days package. Most of these are optional extras depending on your preferences:
🍽️ Meals Not Included
First breakfast in Cusco (approx. 15 soles).
Lunch and dinner on the last day in Aguas Calientes.
🎟️ Entrance Tickets & Optional Activities
Entrance ticket to Humantay Lake: 20 soles.
Bus from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu (Consetur bus) – optional upgrade.
Entrance to Aguas Calientes hot springs: 10 soles.
🚆 Extra Transportation
Train from Hidroeléctrica to Aguas Calientes ($33 USD – optional if you don’t want to walk).
Transport from La Playa – Santa Teresa – Hidroeléctrica (approx. 50 soles).
🛠️ Gear Rentals (Optional)
Sleeping bag rental: 10 USD.
Trekking poles rental: 10 USD.
Salkantay Trek 3 Days – Prices
The cost of the Salkantay Trek 3D/2N depends on your return option (car or train) and your travel category (student, child, or adult). Below, you’ll find the updated rates for the 2025 trekking season:
🚐 Return to Cusco by Car (Economical Option)
Category | Price per Person | Conditions |
🎓 Student | $305 USD | Valid ISIC or student ID required |
👧 Child (8–17 years) | $305 USD | Passport required for age verification |
🧑 Adult | $320 USD | Standard rate |
🚆 Return to Cusco by Train (Comfort Option)
Category | Price per Person | Conditions |
🎓 Student | $369 USD | Must present valid student card |
👧 Child (8–17 years) | $369 USD | Applies to travelers aged 8–17 |
🧑 Adult | $389 USD | Standard rate |
✅ Important Information About Student Discounts
The student rate applies only to travelers under 25 years old.
A valid university card or ISIC card is required (must be shown at the entrance of Machu Picchu).
Ensure you meet all requirements before booking to enjoy the special discount.
How to Book the Salkantay Trek 3 Days & Terms and Conditions
Booking the Salkantay Trek 3D/2N to Machu Picchu with Wonderful Machu Picchu Reservation is simple, safe, and 100% online. Follow these steps to secure your spot on this unforgettable adventure:
📝 Step-by-Step Process to Book the Salkantay Trek
✅ Step 1: Check Availability
Click the “BOOK NOW” button and select your desired start date. Our real-time calendar shows only available dates. If it’s open, it means there are also Machu Picchu tickets available.
✅ Step 2: Choose Your Return Option
Select whether you want to return by train (more comfort) or by car (budget-friendly). Then indicate the number of travelers and type of ticket: Adult, Student, or Child.
💳 You can choose to pay only the $180 USD deposit per person (non-refundable) or the full tour amount.
✅ Step 3: Complete Traveler Information
Fill out the booking form with each participant’s details:
Full name (as on passport)
Passport number
WhatsApp number
Hotel in Cusco
Dietary preferences (vegetarian/vegan available at no extra cost)
✅ Step 4: Add Optional Extras
Enhance your trek by adding:
Sleeping bag rental
Trekking poles
Entry to Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain (subject to availability)
✅ Step 5: Secure Your Payment
Pay quickly and securely with any credit/debit card. Some countries also allow bank transfers.
⚠️ Payments with cards include a 5% transaction fee, covered by the client.
👉 Once payment is completed, you’ll receive:
An instant payment confirmation email.
Within 24 hours, your final tour confirmation, including Machu Picchu entrance tickets, train tickets (if applicable), and all tour details.
📜 Terms & Conditions for the Salkantay Trek
🔒 Non-Refundable Deposit
A $180 USD deposit per person is required to secure your booking. This deposit guarantees your Machu Picchu ticket purchase.
❌ Cancellations
The deposit is non-refundable under any circumstance.
Tickets (Machu Picchu or train) already issued remain valid for the original date but cannot be changed or refunded.
If you paid the full tour amount and cancel, you will receive a refund excluding the $180 deposit.
📆 Date Changes
Date changes are possible if availability exists.
New Machu Picchu and train tickets must be purchased.
A new $180 USD deposit per person will be required to reschedule.
💵 Remaining Balance Payment
If you paid only the deposit, the balance must be paid at least 24 hours before your trek:
Online via our booking platform
At our Cusco office (cash in USD or soles)
By card (with a 3.9% processing fee)
🤝 Customer Support
For booking changes, cancellations, or assistance, contact us at:
📧 wonderfulmachupicchu@gmail.com
🎒 Salkantay Trek Packing List – What to Pack for the Trek to Machu Picchu
🛂 Essentials to Bring on the Salkantay Trek
Original Passport: Required for Machu Picchu entry and checkpoints (valid throughout your trip).
Student Card: If you booked with a student discount, you must show it at check-in.
Daypack (25L or less): Lightweight, ergonomic, and comfortable for daily hikes.
Water Storage: Carry at least 1.5–2 liters (CamelBak or reusable bottles recommended).
Hiking Boots: Lightweight, waterproof, and broken-in with strong traction.
Headlamp or Flashlight: Necessary for early mornings and night activities.
👕 Clothing for the Salkantay Trek
2–3 moisture-wicking t-shirts
2–3 pairs of hiking pants (light and breathable)
3 sets of undergarments
3 pairs of hiking socks (avoid cotton, use thermal or synthetic)
1 fleece jacket and 1 down jacket for cold nights
1 rain jacket & rain pants (for unpredictable Andean weather)
1 sun hat for daytime and 1 wool hat for cold evenings
Comfortable shoes for camp + sturdy hiking boots for the trek
🏕️ Gear & Camping Equipment
Waterproof gloves (ski or trekking gloves work)
Rain poncho or waterproof jacket for heavy rain
Quick-dry towel (larger than the one provided)
Travel-size soap or biodegradable hygiene items
Battery pack / portable charger (electricity is limited)
Plastic bags for waterproofing clothes and organizing gear
Sleeping bag (rated to at least -10°C / 14°F for cold nights)
🧴 Toiletries & Personal Care
High-SPF sunscreen & moisturizer (strong Andean sun)
Insect repellent / bug spray (especially for jungle areas)
🎒 Inside Your Daypack for the Salkantay Trek
👉 Remember: For Machu Picchu, bags over 25L are not permitted inside. Larger bags must be stored at the entrance.
Pack these essentials in your daily backpack:
Water for the morning (refills provided later)
Rain gear + fleece jacket (weather changes quickly)
1. What is the Salkantay Trek and why is it the best alternative to the Inca Trail?
The Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu is a high-altitude adventure through snow-capped mountains, cloud forests, and tropical valleys, ending at the legendary Machu Picchu. It is often called the best alternative to the Inca Trail because it is less crowded, more affordable, and offers stunning landscapes like the Humantay Lake and Salkantay Pass.
👉 With Wonderful Machu Picchu Reservation, you get guaranteed permits, professional local guides, and all-inclusive packages that make your journey stress-free.
2. How many days does the Salkantay Trek take?
The classic route is 5 Days / 4 Nights, but you can also choose the 4 Days / 3 Nights version for a faster itinerary. Both routes include highlights like Humantay Lake, Salkantay Mountain, Llactapata ruins, and Machu Picchu.
👉 We at Wonderful Machu Picchu Reservation offer flexible itineraries (3, 4, or 5 days) depending on your travel time and preferences.
3. How difficult is the Salkantay Trek?
The Salkantay Trek is rated moderate to challenging, with the highest point at Salkantay Pass (4,650 m / 15,255 ft). You should be in decent physical condition and prepared for changing weather conditions.
👉 Booking with Wonderful Machu Picchu Reservation ensures that you have expert guides, professional porters, and the right acclimatization tips to make the trek easier and safer.
4. What is the best time of year to do the Salkantay Trek?
The dry season (April to October) is the best time, offering sunny days, starry nights, and safer trail conditions. The rainy season (November to March) has fewer tourists, but trails can be slippery.
👉 Our team at Wonderful Machu Picchu Reservation monitors weather conditions daily and organizes departures all year round, ensuring you have the best experience no matter when you travel.
6. What should I pack for the Salkantay Trek?
You’ll need trekking boots, warm clothes, rain gear, a sleeping bag, and personal essentials like sunscreen and insect repellent. Horses will carry part of your luggage, so you only need a light daypack.
👉 We provide a detailed Salkantay Trek packing list and even offer gear rental options when you book with Wonderful Machu Picchu Reservation.
7. Do I need a permit for the Salkantay Trek?
Unlike the Inca Trail, the Salkantay Trek does not require a government permit, but you still need your Machu Picchu entry ticket. Tickets can sell out fast, especially for Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain.
👉 We take care of all your permits, tickets, and logistics, so you don’t have to worry. Booking with Wonderful Machu Picchu Reservation means everything is guaranteed in advance.
8. Is the Salkantay Trek safe?
Yes, the trek is safe as long as you go with an authorized operator. The main challenges are altitude, weather, and physical effort.
👉 With Wonderful Machu Picchu Reservation, you’ll be guided by certified professionals, equipped with first-aid kits and oxygen, and supported by local staff who prioritize your safety.
9. Can I do the Salkantay Trek without a guide?
Technically yes, but it’s not recommended due to altitude, route complexity, and lack of facilities along the trail.
👉 By choosing Wonderful Machu Picchu Reservation, you’ll save time, avoid risks, and enjoy an all-inclusive service: transport, accommodation, meals, and guided tour of Machu Picchu.
10. Why choose Wonderful Machu Picchu Reservation for the Salkantay Trek?
Because we are local experts based in Cusco, specialized in small groups, with guaranteed departures, bilingual guides, and personalized service. We handle every detail, from pick-up at your hotel to your final Machu Picchu tour.
👉 Book with Wonderful Machu Picchu Reservation and turn the Salkantay Trek into the adventure of a lifetime.
Why Choose Wonderful Machu Picchu Reservation for the Salkantay Trek?
✅ Local Experts Based in Cusco
Unlike international agencies, we are a 100% local company from Cusco. This means we know the Salkantay Trek trails, weather, culture, and communities better than anyone. Booking directly with us supports the local economy and guarantees you authentic service.
✅ Small Groups, Personalized Service
We believe in quality over quantity. Our groups are kept small so that every traveler receives personalized attention from our bilingual guides. This creates a more intimate and immersive experience of the Andes and Machu Picchu.
✅ All-Inclusive, Transparent Pricing
With Wonderful Machu Picchu Reservation, there are no hidden fees. Our packages include transportation, accommodation, meals, and entrance tickets. You’ll also find flexible return options (by car or train), and special discounts for students and groups.
✅ Professional Local Guides & Safety First
Our certified guides are not only experts in trekking but also trained in first aid and altitude management. Every group carries oxygen, first aid kits, and emergency support to ensure your safety during the high-altitude Salkantay Pass (4,650 m / 15,255 ft).
Duration of the trip
3 DAYS
Places to Visit:
Cusco, Soraypampa, Humantay Lake, Salkantay Pass, Chawllay, Santa Teresa, Aguas Calientes, Machu Picchu
Physical Level:
Challenging
Trip Starts in:
Cusco - Pick up from your hotel in Cusco
Trip Style:
Hiking
Group Size:
Varies (max 16 people recommended)
Total Hiking Distance:
55 KM (3 days)
We offer additional tour options that maintain the same high quality you’ve come to expect. Explore new possibilities with us without compromising on excellence!“
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