Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu 4 Days & 3 Nights - Orange Nation Peru
machu Picchu tours
salkantay and machu picchu - Orange Nation Peru

Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu 4 Days & 3 Nights

4 Days

From

547

/ Per Person

This is an alternative route to the classic Inca Trail to Machu Picchu which will take you through incredible landscapes with various types of exotic flora and fauna. A unique and specially designed 4-day Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu, with incomparable views of the snow-capped Humantay and Salkantay Mountains. Trek off the beaten path, following our unique route where you visit two incredible crystal clear glacial lakes. Hike through the Andes Mountains and camp at our private sites which are more remote, less crowded and off the typical path. Follow the remote foot path up to the forgotten Inca Ruins of LLACTAPATA with the greatest view of Machu Picchu. Orange Nation is the best choice if you want to enjoy the Salkantay trek and an informative yet interesting tour of  Machu Picchu. We pride ourselves in being specialists in creating unique routes, with our customized treks to Machu Picchu like the Salkantay trek.

 

Service Level:

Standard-comfortable mid-tier to luxury accommodation. Exclusive modern vehicles with private driver.

Difficulty:

Some steep inclines at high altitudes, that can be regarded as strenuous. With sufficient pre-trek training, its easily achievable.

Travel Style:

Hiking, trekking, camping and 1 night mid-tier hotel accommodation (option to upgrade).

Group Size

Small group experience; Max 12, Avg 5..

Full Itinerary

Our private van will pick you up from your hotel at 4:30am, when we begin the 3 hour drive to the Soraypampa trailhead. As we traverse the curving roads of the Andes, sit back and enjoy the view, from the indigenous villages of Iscuchaca and Limatambo, to the surrounding valleys and the spectacular snow-capped mountains.

At the trailhead we have our breakfast while gaping at the stunning glaciers of Mount Humantay (5,900m/19,356ft) and Mount Salkantay (6,217m / 20,396ft) in the distance. We then begin the 2.5 hour excursion to Laguna Humantay- a turquoise glacial lake nestled between tall mountains. An incredible sight to see- but you have to work for it!

After you have had your fill of the famous glacial lake, we head over to Salkantay Pampa, where a hot lunch awaits you. After you have had your fill, we continue the hike to Soroccocha, our campsite for the night.

This picturesque campsite is located at the foot of the great Salkantay Mountain. Once we have arrived, we can relax at camp before dinner is served, accompanied by a hot drink to watch the hypnotic Andean landscape give way to dusk.

  • Meals: Breakfast – Lunch – Afternoon Tea – Dinner
  • Accommodation: Camping facilities with large 4 person Eureka tents for every 2 people
  • Distance: 14kms / 8.7 miles
  • Difficulty: Challenging

You will receive your wake up call bright and early as your guide delivers a hot drink to your tent, after which you will enjoy a healthy and hearty breakfast, preparing you for the day to come.

Shortly after breakfast we begin the days hike, starting with the trek up to the Salkantay Pass- the highest point in the trail and an awe-inspiring moment for every traveler who takes on this adventure.

The hard part is over now, and we descend for 2 hours toward the rural community of Huayracmachay, where we will stop for lunch. Along the way, watch as the route winds down from the harsh Andean peaks into the luscious jungle.

After lunch, we walk for 3 more hours through the beginning of the Peruvian cloud forest, enjoying fruit bearing trees and various flora and fauna. After a long day, we finally we arrive at Chaullay, where we take a private car to Lucmabamba, where we make camp for the second night.

  • Meals: Breakfast – Lunch – Afternoon Tea Time – Dinner
  • Accommodation: Camping facilities with large 4 person Tents for every 2 people for space and comfort
  • Distance: 18kms / 11 miles
  • Difficulty: Moderate

After we have all enjoyed the final breakfast prepared for us by our personal chef, we continue to hike- this time along a branch of the world-famous Inca Trail. We hike this path for 3 hours uphill until we reach the Puncuyoc Pass (2,700m/8,858ft).

Along the way, we pass incredible views and long valleys stretching far into the distance. We finally arrive to Llactapata Inca Ruins; located directly across from Machu Picchu! We take a little time to enjoy the view, drinking it all in and admiring the historical roots of the area, before continuing our journey.

We descend for 2 hours to Hidroelectrica, where we have lunch. After you have had your fill, we catch the train to Aguas Calientes, the journey lasts roughly half an hour, where we sleep in a nice hotel, welcoming all the amenities, such as hot water and duvets with open arms.

  • Meals: Breakfast – Lunch – Dinner
  • Accommodation: Wiracocha Inn Hotel or Intipunku Tambo
  • Distance: 15kms / 9 miles
  • Time: Approximately 9 hours
  • Difficulty: Moderate

After an early breakfast at your hotel, we join the queue for the bus up to Machu Picchu at 5:30am, just in time to witness the sunrise. Somehow even better than the pictures, this mystical site is the pinnacle of many travelers trips to Peru.

Watch as the sun creeps over the mountains, and as the morning light glances off the peaks that surround you, your guided tour of the citadel begins. The tour shares many important parts of the citadel with you, and lasts for roughly 2 hours.

If you have booked an additional hike- either to Machu Picchu Mountain or Huayna Picchu, you will be able to climb the peak after the tour has finished. When you have had your fill of the citadel, head back down to Aguas Calientes on one of the waiting shuttle buses.

Once you arrive back in the town, grab some lunch (not included), and explore the market, visit the hot springs, or simply treat yourself to a happy hour until your scheduled train departure.

The Expedition train will take you back to Ollantaytambo at 2:55pm or 3:20pm, and the tracks follow the spectacular Urubamba River. Once you arrive in Ollantaytambo, your driver will meet you at the exit from the train station, taking you back to your hotel in Cusco in our private van. You can expect to arrive at your hotel at around 7:00pm.

  • Meal: Breakfast
  • Difficulty: Easy

***IMPORTANT:

  • You can upgrade to the Vistadome Train for the same times, 2:55 pm or 3:20 pm, 4:22 pm, or 4:43 pm. The cost is $57 USD.
  • We can organize earlier trains, please request at booking.
  • Additional hikes, such as Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain Hikes are subject to availability. Please let us know at the time of booking.

WHAT IS INCLUDED FOR THE 4 DAY SALKANTAY TREK TO MACHU PICCHU?

  • Pick up at your hotel in the morning of the trek departure
  • Private transport from Cusco to Soraypampa (starting point of the trek)
  • Entry fee to Machu Picchu
  • English speaking, experienced professional guide
  • Private guided tour of Machu Picchu
  • Comfortable tents (sleeping 2 people in a 4 person tent)
  • All camping equipment such as: dining tent, table, chairs, kitchen tent and toilet tent
  • Bus tickets from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu and return to Aguas Calientes
  • First Aid kit including emergency oxygen bottle
  • Train ticket from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo
  • Train from Hydroelectric to Aguas Calientes
  • Private transport from Ollantaytambo to your hotel in Cusco
  • Celebration dinner in an Aguas Calientes restaurant
  • Hotel in Aguas Calientes with private room and bathroom
  • Mules and horses (for equipment and personal items) including horsemen – 7 kgs of your personal items such as extra clothes, sleeping bag etc
  • Provision of a horse in case of emergency such as illness, to ensure trek can be completed by all participants
  • Comfortable foam mattress and camping pillow
  • Boiled water for drinking and to freshen up in the mornings

WHAT IS NOT INCLUDED FOR THE SALKANTAY TREK TO MACHU PICCHU 4 DAYS?

  • Sleeping Bag: $20 USD per person per trek (It will be clean and warm)
  • Air Mattress: $20 USD per person per trek (Therm-a-rest mattresses)
  • Walking Poles: $15 USD per pair per trek (Professional Poles that can be extended)
  • Personal tent: $30 USD – (Tent for solo travelers only)
  • Vistadome Train Upgrade: $57 USD per person (For the return to Poroy at 4:43pm)
  • Huayna Picchu Mountain: $75 USD per person (Please request when you book your Trek)
  • Hotels before and after the trek
  • Travel insurance (highly recommended)
  • Flights
  • Lunch on the last day in Aguas Calientes
  • Tips for the crew, guide, cook and horsemen of ORANGE NATION PERU

Our Salkantay Trek Machu Picchu 4 days may leave on any date that is best suited to you, as long as we have a minimum of 2 hikers!

No. OF PEOPLE PRICE
2 to 12 people $ 547 USD per person

***This price includes an extra packhorse which will carry your belongings up to 7 kg, we will provide you a duffel bag, you can put your things.

***We provide large Eureka 4 person tents for each 2 trekkers.

DISCOUNTS

  • 18 to 25 years old: $30 USD. Information required on student card: name of university, student name, photo of student, expiration date etc. A copy of the card at booking is required & government approval for discount.
  • Under 18 years old: $30 USD. Please send us a copy of your passport at the time of booking.
  • Under 11 years old: $40 USD. Please send us a copy of your passport at the time of booking.

EXTRAS

  • Sleeping Bag: $20 USD per person per trek (It will be clean and warm)
  • Air Mattress: $20 USD per person per trek (Therm-a-rest mattresses)
  • Walking Poles: $15 USD per pair per trek (Professional Poles that can be extended)
  • Personal tent: $30 USD – (Tent is for solo trekkers only)
  • Vistadome Train Upgrade: $57 USD per person
  • Huayna Picchu Mountain: $75 USD per person (Please request when you book your Trek)
  • Hotel single supplement: $40 USD per night (for solo travelers with single room)

ADDED VALUES FOR FREE

  • TRANSFER – from the Airport to Hotel (Cusco Only)
  • DUFFEL BAG AND LINER BAGS – included in the trekking price!
  • EXTRA PACK HORSE is included in the price, the porter will carry your belongings up to 7 kgs /14p like sleeping bag, mattress, clothes etc. Included is the 2kg  weight for your sleeping bad and mattress.
  • BOILED WATER is included along the Inca Trail.
  • OXYGEN TANK will be available along the trek
  • EMERGENCY HORSE is included in the price which can be ridden if you get tired or sick.
  • CAMPING PILLOW

WHAT YOU HAVE TO TAKE WITH YOU FOR SALKANTAY TREK TO MACHU PICCHU 4 DAYS?

  • Original Passport (It has to be the same as one used for booking your trek)
  • Valid University card (if you booked as a student)
  • Good daypack (the smaller, the better)
  • Water storage: 2-3L (Please bring only reusable bottles)
  • Comfortable hiking boots with ankle support
  • Sleeping bag (can be rented from Orange Nation)
  • Headlamp: essential
  • Toilet paper

WHAT TO PUT IN YOUR DUFFEL BAG FOR THE SALKANTAY TREK TO MACHU PICCHU 4 DAYS?

As a Direct Local Tour operator we provide you with a duffel bag at your briefing and INCLUDE an extra pack horse which will carry up to 7 kgs or 14lbs including your 2kg sleeping bag, mattress and extra clothing.

  • 2 t-shirts
  • 2 hiking pants at least
  • 4 sets of undergarments
  • 3 sets of hiking socks
  • Bathing suit for the thermal waters
  • Fleece/ thermals
  • Warm clothes, down jacket — 2nd campsite temp around 3º C
  • Waterproof gloves (even if they are ski gloves, take them)
  • Comfortable shoes for camp
  • Quick dry towel. We provide small ones, you might prefer something larger
  • Small bottle of soap: we provide warm water each day to wash.
  • Battery Charger: No electricity along the trek
  • Large plastic bags will be provided at the office to line your duffel bag
  • Sleeping bag: It has to be at least -15ºC – This can be rented from us

TOILETRIES

  • Face moisturizer
  • Hand Sanitizer
  • Wet wipes
  • Toothbrush and toothpaste
  • Personal medications
  • First aid kit: band-aids, moleskin, etc

WHAT TO PUT IN YOUR BACKPACK FOR THE SALKANTAY TREK TO MACHU PICCHU 4 DAYS?

We highly recommend a small backpack 30 to 40L for hiking in the day. A big backpack will not be allowed into Machu Picchu. The remainder of your belongings will be in your duffel bag at camp.

  • Water: Please supply your own water until the first lunch spot, then we will provide you with cold boiled water at every meal time. Please bring your canteens
  • Sun Hat
  • Sunscreen
  • Insect repellent
  • Headlamp: essential
  • Wool Hat
  • Rain gear
  • Fleece
  • Snacks like chocolate bars, cereal bars or any dry fruits
  • Rain plastic poncho
  • Gloves
  • Camera
  • Hand sanitizer
  • Toilet paper and small plastic bag for waste
  • Extra Money for souvenirs, drinks & tips
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Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu 4 Days & 3 Nights
From

547

/ Per Person
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Why travel with Orange Nation Peru?

We have become the leaders in small group adventure travel over the past three decades by consistently listening to our travelers and delivering what they desire: adaptable itineraries, the freedom to explore, smaller group sizes, safety and peace of mind, and knowledgeable local guides who provide unique insights into the destination that would be missed through any other means of travel.

Authentic and personalized experiences

Customization

We design unique tours through Peru, tailored just for you.

Leadership with real-world experience

Track Record

Our team understands service from the ground up to excellence.

Small groups, deeper connection

Connection

Small groups for closer and safer attention.

Personalized attention at all times

Commitment

We take care of every detail before, during, and after your trip.

Excellent quality at the best price

Value

We offer exceptional service and unforgettable experiences without overpaying.

Design Your Ideal Adventure

Forget generic tours. With Orange Nation, you can create a tailor-made itinerary with the level of adventure, culture, or relaxation you choose.

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Welcome

Our Reviews

Discover why thousands of people around the world trust us to explore the best of Peru.

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Jaffet hasan c

The guys were very efficient throughout the trip and attentive when we arrived at the campsite. The kitchen service was super delicious , the food quality and healthy, dishes suitable for people (vegans) and a buffet that has nothing to envy others.
Their kindness and efficiency are greatly appreciated for this journey to the Inca Way.

Written June 22, 2025

Friends

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Glen

We had a great experience doing the 4d3n Inca Trail. Our porters were so hard working and made sure our tents and equipment were always ready for us. The chef Mario was outstanding and prepared restaurant quality vegetarian food everyday. Our guide Carlos made the trip exceptional, always making sure we were informed and making sure we were all enjoying the trail. He went above and beyond to encourage me when I was unwell. He made the trip the best ever. A beautiful and wonderful trek.

Written July 14, 2025

Family

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Kendall C

Hiking the Short Inca Trail was hands-down one of the highlights of my entire trip to Peru. This trek is the perfect option if you want a taste of the iconic Inca Trail without committing to the full 4-day hike.

From the moment we started the hike at KM 104 Carlos our guide was amazing and patient. we were surrounded by breathtaking mountain views, lush cloud forests, and fascinating Inca ruins. The trail itself is moderately challenging—expect a steady incline, stone steps, and a bit of cardio—but it’s absolutely doable for anyone with a decent fitness level. The sense of accomplishment when you reach the Sun Gate (Inti Punku) and get your first glimpse of Machu Picchu is

Written July 8, 2025

Couples

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