Distances and Altitudes Salkantay Trek along the trek to Machu Picchu

The Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu passes through breathtaking landscapes ranging from cloud forest to high mountains. Throughout the trek, there are breathtaking views of the second highest mountain in the Cusco region, known as Salkantay, whose name in Quechua means "wild mountain" and reaches an altitude of 20,574 feet (6,271 meters). This trek to Machu Picchu passes through little frequented areas, fusing cultural richness and traditions with the amazing diversity of flora and fauna that characterizes Peru. The experience takes place in the authentic Andes, providing ideal conditions to gain a unique perspective of life in the region.

Salkantay Trek Distances

distances and altitudes - Inca Trail to Machu Picchu — Distances and Altitudes Salkantay Trek along the trek to Machu Picchu

Day 1:

Day 2:

Day 3:

Day 4:

Day 5:

It is important to be prepared for weather changes, as the hike covers different altitudes and types of terrain. In addition, by passing through less traveled areas, participants have the opportunity to experience authentic Andean life and appreciate the unique flora and fauna of the region. The view of Salkantay, the second highest mountain in the Cusco area, adds an impressive element to this adventure.

salkantay pass - Inca Trail to Machu Picchu — The Salkantay Pass Altitude is 4600 msnm

EXTRA	COST USD	REMARKS
1	Cusco – Soraypampa
1	*Starting Elevation “Mollepata”: 2900 meters / 9,515ft Campsite Elevation “Soraypampa”: 3850 meters / 12,631ft Considered* : Moderate The area : Andes	Walking distance: 13 km (approx.) Estimated trekking time: 5 hours Maximum altitude point: 3,850 m (approx.)
2	Soraypampa – Salkantay Pass - Collpapampa
2	Highest Elevation “Salkantay pass”: 4600 meters / 15090 ft Campsite Elevation “Collpapampa”: 3000m / 9842ft Considered: Challenge The area: Andes, Salkantay Glaciar	Walking distance 22 km (approx.) Estimated trekking time 9 hours (approx.)
3	Collpapampa – Lucmabamba
3	*Starting Elevation “Collpapampa”: 3000m / 9842ft Campsite Elevation “Lucmabamba”: 2000mt / 6561ft Considered: Moderate The area*: Cloud Forest	Walking distance: 16 km (approx.) Estimated trekking time: 6 hours
4	Lucmabamba - Hidroelectic - Aguas Calientes
4	*Starting Elevation “Lucmabamba”: 2000 meters / 6562 ft Hotel Elevation “Aguas Calientes”: 2050 meters / 6726 ft Considered: Moderate The area*: Cloud Forest	Walking Distance: 15km / 9 miles Estimated trekking time: 6 to 7 hours
5	Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu – Cusco
5	Machupicchu Inca City elevation: 7,972' (2,430 m) Huaynapicchu sacred Mountain elevation: 8,924' (2,720 m)

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Reviews

Anastasia E

Dec 2024 - Couples

Value for money

"We did the 4D, 3 nights Inca Trail with Jorge the first week of December 2024. The tour was incredible with beautiful views along the way and of course a worthwhile final destination. The Inca Trail team was great and our guide was very knowledgeable the only thing to note was that we wish that the guide matched our walking pace more..."

Ruben S

Dec 2024 - Solo

An Amazing 4-Day Adventure on the Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu

"I recently completed the 4-day Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu, and it was an absolutely flawless experience from start to finish. The communication with the company ITEP beforehand was outstanding-every question was answered promptly and clearly, which gave me a lot of confidence heading into the adventure..."

Arthur S

Dec 2024 - Friends

I am grateful for the Incas

"Our hike to Choquequirao was a beautiful experience. Our guide Percy was well informed, kind and very knowledgable. We felt well looked after the entire time (the cups of tea delivered to our tents in the morning were a particular highlight). Even after four days I was not ready to leave."

5.0 955 reviews