Salkantay Express
The Essential 4-Day Trek
An optimized journey for those with limited time. Experience the transition from glacial peaks to tropical valleys in our comprehensive 4-day itinerary to the Inca citadel.
Salkantay Trek 4 Days Itinerary | Expanded Route Guide
This Salkantay Trekking is the best way to reach Machu Picchu and allows you to be in contact with the fauna, flora, and different ecological zones of the region. During the hike, you can enjoy incredible landscapes of the Andes, from snow-capped mountains to tropical forests and finally, the lush jungle.
Day 1: Cusco – Mollepata – Soraypampa – Humantay Lagoon
The adventure begins early in Cusco with a scenic drive toward Mollepata, a small Andean village where the first stop allows time to stretch, have breakfast, and prepare for the trekking day ahead. From here, the journey continues by vehicle to Soraypampa, the starting point of the hike, located at high altitude and surrounded by impressive mountain landscapes. Upon arrival, trekkers begin a gradual walk through open valleys with views of snow-capped peaks, allowing the body to start adapting to the altitude. After reaching the campsite, a freshly prepared lunch is served, providing the energy needed for the afternoon excursion. Later, the group hikes uphill toward the stunning Humantay Lake, a glacial lagoon known for its vibrant turquoise color and dramatic mountain backdrop. The ascent is short but demanding due to altitude, making pacing essential. After enjoying the views and taking photos, the group returns to Soraypampa to rest. The night is spent at the campsite under clear Andean skies, where temperatures can drop significantly, offering a true high-mountain experience.
Day 2: Soraypampa – Salkantay Pass – Wayraqmachay – Colpapampa
This is the most challenging and rewarding day of the trek, as it includes the ascent to the highest point of the route, the Salkantay Pass. The day begins early with a warm breakfast before starting the steady uphill hike toward the famous “7 snakes” trail, a zigzag path that leads to the summit. As altitude increases, the air becomes thinner, requiring a slow and consistent pace. Upon reaching the top, trekkers are rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views of the towering Nevado Salkantay, one of the most sacred and impressive mountains in the region. This moment marks a major milestone in the trek. After spending time at the pass, the route continues with a long descent toward Wayraqmachay, where a lunch break is typically taken. From here, the landscape begins to transform into greener, more humid terrain as the trail enters the Andean cloud forest. The day ends at Colpapampa, where trekkers rest at the campsite surrounded by vegetation, enjoying a warmer climate compared to the previous night.
Day 3: Colpapampa – Sahuayaco – Hydroelectric – Aguas Calientes
The third day offers a noticeable change in environment, as the trek continues through the cloud forest and into a more tropical setting. The trail passes through small local communities, coffee plantations, and areas rich in biodiversity, providing insight into rural life in this region. The terrain is less demanding compared to the previous day, with gradual descents and flatter sections that allow for a more relaxed pace. After reaching Sahuayaco, also known as Playa Sahuayaco, travelers take local transportation to the Hydroelectric station, a key access point near the railway line to Aguas Calientes. From here, the journey continues on foot along the train tracks, following the Urubamba River through lush jungle scenery. This final walk to Aguas Calientes is relatively easy and offers a calm transition before the visit to Machu Picchu. Upon arrival, travelers check into a basic hotel such as Hatun Wasi or a similar category, where they can rest, shower, and prepare for the next day. Dinner is usually taken in town, offering a well-deserved break from camping.
Day 4: Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu – Hydroelectric – Cusco
- Return by BUS (via Hydroelectric): It is essential to book in advance. We manage your entry exclusively between 7:00 a.m. and 9:00 a.m., as these are the only time slots that guarantee compliance with the itinerary and arrival at the return transport without setbacks.
- Return by TRAIN: If you choose this option, there are no strict time restrictions for your entrance to Machu Picchu.
Included
- Group: 19 passengers
- Informative talk prior to departure
- Experienced tour guide
- First aid box
- 24/7 customer support
- Tourist transport
- Pick up service
- Entrance ticket to Machu Picchu
- Tourist transportation Cusco – Abra Malaga and accompaniment to Santa Maria.
- Personal tents for two people
- Inflatable mattresses
- Hot drinks at night and with each meal
- 3 Breakfasts, 3 Lunches and 3 Dinners (with vegetarian option)
- First night in Domo
- RETURN BY BUS: Return by bus from Hidroeléctrica to Cusco (approximately 6 hours) arrival point near your hotel
Not included
- Up/down buses (Consettur $14 per section)
- Tips
- Additional costs
- Entrance ticket to the hot springs in Aguas Calientes(15 Peruvian soles)
- Air tickets
- Entrance ticket to Huayna Picchu (USD 25.00 if purchased with our agency).
- Breakfast on the first day and lunch on the last day
- Sleeping bag
- Canes
- Personal expenses
- RETURN BY TRAIN: Return by train from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo (approximately 2 hours) and pick up at the train station and transfer to Cusco, arrival point near your hotel