Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu - 3-Day Short Adventure Tour

We’ll begin our adventure early with a hotel pickup around 3:00 a.m., followed by a scenic 3.5-hour drive in our private transport to Soraypampa (3,900 m / 12,795 ft)—the starting point of the Salkantay Trek.

Upon arrival, we’ll enjoy a nourishing box breakfast while taking in the breathtaking Andean scenery. Then, we begin our uphill hike toward the Salkantay Pass (4,630 m / 15,190 ft), the highest point of the trek. Surrounded by towering snow-capped peaks, glaciers, and dramatic valleys, this is where you’ll truly feel the magic of the Andes.

After taking time to rest and absorb the majestic views, we’ll start a gradual descent to the archaeological site of Huayracmachay, where we’ll stop for a rejuvenating lunch in the heart of nature.

In the afternoon, we continue descending into the lush high jungle, where the landscape transforms into vibrant greenery and tropical microclimates. Expect stunning views and unique biodiversity along the way. Finally, we arrive at our first campsite in Chaullay (2,900 m / 9,514 ft), where a hearty dinner awaits and we’ll spend the night under the stars.

Meals: lunch and dinner.
Walking distance: 22km / 13.7 miles .
Difficulty: Defiant .
Overnight: Sky Del Cielo in Chaullay.
Walking Time: 10 hours approx.
Starting elevation: 3900 m / 12,795 ft.
Maximum elevation: 4630 m /15,190 ft.
Climate: Cold or rainy at Abra Salkantay.

Today promises to be unforgettable. After an early breakfast at the campsite, we continue our trek through the lush cloud forest, immersing ourselves in the biodiversity of the Peruvian jungle. Along the trail, we’ll encounter coffee and tea plantations, vibrant birdlife, and possibly spot orchids—some of the most colorful and exotic varieties in the world, thriving in this warm and humid microclimate.

We'll reach a small village known as La Playa Sahuayaco, where you’ll have the optional opportunity to join a Coffee Experience Tour, learning how local families grow, roast, and prepare organic coffee.

Afterward, we’ll take a short drive in a local vehicle to Hidroeléctrica Station, where a delicious lunch awaits us.

Following a well-deserved break, we’ll begin our final hike of the day—an easy and scenic walk along the railway to the town of Aguas Calientes (2,000 m / 6,562 ft), the gateway to Machu Picchu.

Upon arrival, you’ll check in to a 2-star hotel, with time to relax or optionally visit the Aguas Calientes Hot Springs (located just 1.2 km from town). In the evening, we’ll enjoy a group dinner at a local restaurant and prepare for the highlight of the journey—Machu Picchu.

Meals: lunch and dinner.
Walking distance: 27 km / 16.78 miles .
Difficulty: Defiant .
Overnight: Hotel in Aguas Calientes .
Walking Time: 7 to 8 hours approx.
Starting elevation: 2900 m / 9,514 ft.
Maximum elevation: 2900 m / 9,514 ft

We’ll start our day very early with breakfast provided by the hotel, followed by a 30-minute bus ride up to the majestic citadel of Machu Picchu. Upon arrival at the main entrance, we’ll begin a guided tour through Circuit 2A, one of the most comprehensive routes within the site. This carefully planned route covers approximately 80% of the archaeological complex, including key landmarks such as the Upper and Lower Terraces, the Sun Dial (Intihuatana), the Main Plaza, and several ceremonial and agricultural sectors.

Along the way, your expert guide will reveal the mysteries and history behind this ancient wonder, and of course, you’ll enjoy the iconic panoramic view of Machu Picchu.

The guided tour lasts around 2 hours, after which you'll have some free time to soak in the atmosphere or take photos before returning by bus to Aguas Calientes. (Note: Lunch is not included on this day, but your guide can offer recommendations in town.)

Later, we’ll board the train back to Ollantaytambo or Poroy, where our private transportation will be waiting to transfer you back to your hotel in Cusco, marking the end of this unforgettable journey.

Meals:Breakfast.
Difficulty: Easy .
Starting elevation: 2000 m / 6562 ft.
Elevation at Machu Picchu: 2400 m / 7872 ft.
Elevation at Huayna Picchu: 2720m / 8924 ft.
Elevation at Machu Picchu Mountain: 3000 m / 9843 ft.
Climate: It can be hot and rainy.