Cachilife Perú – Vive el Perú con espíritu aventurero

Salkantay Trek To Machu Picchu 4 Days / 3 Nights

4 Days |
3 Nigths

General description

The 4-day Salkantay trek is ideal for adventurers who enjoy diverse landscapes, ranging from lush rainforests to towering snow-capped peaks. Along the journey, you’ll traverse breathtaking snowy mountains, witness a sacred Inca peak, and explore the subtropical jungle beneath Machu Picchu. A highlight of the trek is the stunning, crystal-clear Humantay Lake. Unlike the classic Inca Trail, the Salkantay route has fewer restrictions, offering an alternative and more flexible path to reach Machu Picchu.

Pre-trek briefing:
You will have an exhaustive information session with your guide 1 day before your Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu 4 Days 3 Nights. Your guide is allowed in your hotel and can take this opportunity to ask questions and make final preparations.

Detailed Itinerary

Day 01: Cusco – Mollepata – Humantay Lake – Salkantaypampa

The adventure starts early, with a hotel pickup at 5:00 am followed by a 4-hour drive to Mollepata, offering stunning views of the Salkantay and Veronica mountains. After a stop in Soraypampa for breakfast and preparation, the trek to Humantay Lake (4200 m) begins, lasting around 3 hours round trip. After admiring the glacial lake, the journey continues to Salkantaypampa for an overnight stay under a clear, starlit sky.

  • Distance: 8 km / 4.97 miles
  • Hiking Time: ~5 hours
  • Difficulty: Moderate to Difficult
  • Campsite Elevation: 4,220 m / 13,779 ft

Meals:Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Camping
Maximum Altitude: 4150 masl
Minimum Altitude: 2850 masl
Distance Travelled: 11km approx

The day starts at 5:00 am with coca tea before a challenging ascent to the highest point of the trek—Salkantay Pass (4620 m / 15,255 ft). The steep 3 km climb takes around 3 hours, offering breathtaking views of Salkantay, Humantay, and Pumasillo peaks. After reaching the summit, a 3-hour descent follows to Huayracmachay for lunch. The trek then continues into the cloud forest, surrounded by vibrant orchids and lush vegetation, ending at the campsite in Challway Village (2900 m).

  • Distance: 18 km / 11.2 miles
  • Hiking Time: ~10 hours
  • Difficulty: Difficult
  • Campsite Elevation: 2,900 m / 9,514 ft

The morning begins at 5:30 am with breakfast, followed by a scenic hike through the jungle, along the Salkantay River, and past local farms growing coffee, bananas, and avocados. The trek reaches Lucmabamba (16 km / ~7 hours), where lunch and a coffee-tasting session await. From there, a local van transports the group to Hydroelectric, where a train ride (45 minutes) leads to Aguas Calientes for an overnight stay in a 3-star hotel.

  • Distance: 15 km / 9.3 miles
  • Hiking Time: ~6 hours
  • Difficulty: Moderate
  • Accommodation: Hotel in Aguas Calientes

Day four is the most special: the visit to Machu Picchu. We will start early by taking the bus to the citadel. Upon arrival at the checkpoint, we will present our passports before ascending to the main viewpoint, the perfect spot for capturing the iconic Machu Picchu photo. Then, we will follow Circuit 2.

For approximately two hours, the guide will explain the most important aspects of the site. Those who have booked access to Huayna Picchu (an additional $65 entrance fee) will have the option to hike it. Finally, we will return to Aguas Calientes to board the train to Ollantaytambo, followed by a bus back to Cusco, arriving at the hotel around 7:30 pm.

Included

PROFESSIONAL AND TRAINED STAFF

  • Experienced bilingual tour guide
  • Assistant tour guide (groups more than 9 people)
  • Professional cooks
  • Mules to carry cooking and camping equipment and 7kg of your personal items.

EQUIPMENT:

  • EUREKA and DOITE camping equipment
  • Dining tent, well-equipped
  • Duffle bag (duffle bag for your belongings)
  • Inflatable mattresses or mats/brand: “Therm-A-Rest” or “Rei” (you need to carry)
  • Inflatable pillow (you need to carry)

EMERGENCY KIT:

  • First aid kit
  • Oxygen bottles

PERMITS AND ENTRANCE:

  • Entrance ticket to Machu Picchu (Circuit 2)
  • Entrance ticket to Salkantay

ACCOMMODATION:

  • 2 nights in comfortable and spacious tents
  • Hotel in Aguas Calientes – Day 03.

FOOD AND WATER:

  • 03 Breakfasts, 03 Lunches, 03 Afternoon Snacks, and 03 Dinners
  • Boiled water for the trekking (day 1 is on your own) – bring a camelback or a bottle to refill with water.
  • If you have a dietary request, such as vegetarian food, please let us know when booking and reconfirm the day of our briefing.

TRANSPORT:

  • Pick up from your hotel/Airbnb located around the Historic Center of Cusco.
  • Transport to Soraypampa
  • Return train Aguas Calientes — Ollantaytambo (Expedition (Peru Rail) or Voyager (Inca Rail))
  • Consettur Bus (Machu Picchu to Aguas Calientes)
  • Return transport to Cusco

OTHER:

  • Wake up tea: Every morning at the campsite, you will be woken up with a cup of coca tea!
  • Our staff will bring the tea to your tent so that you will be warmed from inside out before you start your day.

Not Included

  • Sleeping Bag (Can be hired from us). US$ 25.00
  • A Pair of Walking Sticks (Can be hired from us). US$ 20.00
  • Breakfast on Day 1 and lunch and dinner on Day 04.
  • Entrance to Huayna Picchu Mountain US$ 65.00
  • Tips.
  • Travel Insurance – you are strongly recommended to take out travel insurance for the duration of your trip

Recommendations

  • Identification: Original passport and ISIC international student card (if applicable).
  • Footwear: Waterproof trekking shoes and a pair of sandals.
  • Clothing: Warm layers such as thermal underwear, fleece, hat, gloves, and socks, along with waterproof gear like a poncho. Lightweight clothing including socks, trousers, shorts, and t-shirts.
  • Sun & Insect Protection: Sun hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, and insect repellent.
  • Hydration: Durable water bottles (e.g., Nalgene).
  • Health & Comfort: Basic medications, walking sticks, swimsuit, towel, and personal hygiene items.
  • Food & Energy: Personal snacks for extra nourishment during the trek.

Prices

PRICE: 610 USD per person

Discounts:

Student Discount: US$20.00 Student discounts apply to anyone who has a valid UNIVERSITY STUDENT CARD at the time of the trek or who is 17-years-old or younger. For those using a University Student Card our under 17-years-old, we need to see a copy of their card or passport at the time of booking to receive the discount. Please send all to info@cachilifeperu.com
Optional Extras (Need to Book in Advance):
Machu Picchu Mountain climbing: USD 65.00 (Need to book in advance)
Huayna Picchu Mountain climbing: USD 65.00 (Need to book in advance)

Upgrades:
Hotel Upgrades:

The hotel is 2-star and is based on sharing a room – either double, matrimonial, or triple. There is a single room surcharge of $30 if you are booking alone. Rooms all include private bathrooms, with hot showers and wifi. We can also upgrade your hotel if you prefer something fancier. Please remember that the service you receive in Aguas Calientes may not be comparable to that in Cusco. Below is a list of possible upgrade options, although we can usually work with most hotels in Aguas Calientes.
Belmond Sanctuary Lodge (5 star hotel) – US $580 per person per night (double occupancy)
Sumaq Machu Picchu hotel (4 star hotel) – US $345 per person per night (double occupancy)
Santuario Hotel (3+ star hotel) – US $65 per person per night (double occupancy)
Train Upgrades:
Vistadome train -US $65 for trip from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo
Hiram Bingham train (deluxe) -US $485 for trip from Aguas Calientes to Poroy

Rentals:

Hiking poles – US$20.00
Sleeping bag – US$25.00
Private Tent – US$30.00

Frequently Asked Questions:

FREQUENT ASKED QUESTION

How to book the Salkantay trek private tours with Cach Life Peru

To reserve your Salkantay trek 4-day private service, please find the “book now” button on our website. once you click the button, you will be redirected to a booking platform where you can choose your desired departure date and provide essential personal information about each participant. the payment process can be completed using either a credit card or a debit card.

If you are interested in additional options like the Huayna Picchu mountain hike, we recommend booking them simultaneously with your Salkantay trek reservation. this approach ensures that you don’t miss out on any possible opportunities due to availability. You can rent walking sticks in Cusco 1 day before your trip.

We will send you a confirmation email once your Salkantay trek reservation has been secured to ensure a meticulously organized and successful trip. we guarantee that it will proceed as planned once the start date is confirmed.

Can I store my luggage at your office?

Certainly! During the 4-day Salkantay private trek to Machu Picchu, we provide a luggage storage facility at our office. we kindly request that you only bring the essentials necessary for the duration of your hike to Machu Picchu.

What about the outstanding balance?

We would like to inform you that settling your outstanding balance can be done efficiently and securely with our various payment options. you may choose to pay in cash, either in USD or soles, one day prior to your trip. for your convenience, credit card payments can also be made with a 5% service fee. please let us know your preferred payment method in advance.

Please note that cash payments must be made one day prior to your trip without exception. we appreciate your prompt attention in settling your outstanding balance and look forward to providing you with the best service possible.

How about the student discount?

Please note that individuals who are 18 years or older must present a valid student card in order to be eligible for discounts on the tour. for students aged 11-17 years, a discount of $30 USD applies, while children aged 2-11 years can avail of a discount of $40 USD. in order to obtain the student discount, please ensure that a copy of your passport and student card are sent to our team at the time of booking via email to info@cachilifeperu.com

May I change the departure date after the reservation has been made?

We regret to inform you that modifications to Salkantay trek reservations depend on availability and logistics such as campsites, transportation, and train tickets. changes after confirmation may not always be possible. please let us know if there are any other questions we can help answer or concerns we can address. thank you for your understanding.

Do I need to bring my original passport on the private Salkantay trek 4 days to Machu Picchu?

We kindly remind you that it is imperative to bring your original passport for your upcoming private Salkantay trek 4-day tour. it is highly important that the passport you bring is the same one you provided to us during the reservation process. your passport will be checked at Machu Picchu and when boarding the train.

Updating passport numbers

If you are in the process of renewing your passport and planning to book the Salkantay private guided trek, we kindly request that you email us a copy of your old passport for verification purposes. in case you do not possess your old passport anymore, any valid government-issued identity card can be presented as long as it bears the same name.

Furthermore, once you receive your new passport, we sincerely ask that you immediately email us a copy of it to modify the information on your reservation. it is essential to ensure that all details on your reservation match those on your passport exactly to avoid any inconvenience during your private premium Salkantay Tours.

What is the schedule of my train ticket?

Typically, return train tickets are reserved for departure at 14:55 pm or 15:20 on day 4, allowing arrivals in Cusco at 07:00 pm. This itinerary allows for sufficient rest and the opportunity to participate in tours such as Rainbow Mountain on the subsequent day.

Can I stay in the Sacred Valley for my Private Salkantay trek 4 days?

We recommend that you consider staying in either Urubamba or Ollantaytambo during your visit to the sacred valley. by opting for accommodation in this area, your pick-up time will be scheduled an hour and a half after the usual pick-up time in Cusco, which will allow you some more time to rest.

If I cancel my Salkantay private tour. do I get any refund?

If you are unable to join us for any reason such as illness, missing your flight, or a natural disaster, we regret to inform you that certain expenses will already have been incurred, such as train tickets or campsite bookings. please note that these are non-refundable and non-transferable. we understand that unexpected changes can occur, and we want to assure you that we will always do our best to be reasonable and only charge you for any expenses that have already been incurred.

What time will we get to Machu Picchu?

our group’s usual arrival time to Machu Picchu town (Aguas Calientes) is in the afternoon of day 3. on day 4, the visit to Machu Picchu typically begins early in the morning. you can expect to be at Machu Picchu around 6:00 to 7:00 am depending on bus availability and schedule.

Will water be provided?

We recommend that you purchase 2 liters of water for the first day of your trek for adequate hydration. From the second day onwards, we will supply you with boiled water three times a day — after breakfast, during lunchtime, and at dinner. this measure has been implemented for your health and safety, ensuring that you have access to safe drinking water throughout your trekking journey.

What kinds of reusable water bottles should we bring to the Salkantay Trek private Tours 4 days?

From march 2022, the use of single-use plastic water bottles and other plastic waste will be strictly prohibited while trekking on the Salkantay route for 4 days and 3 nights. to comply with this policy, we kindly ask that all guests bring their own personal reusable water bottles to be filled with the water we provide. we suggest opting for a bladder, hard shell bottle, or pouch that is most convenient for your needs. this measure is part of our ongoing commitment to minimize our environmental impact and preserve the natural beauty of this iconic landmark. thank you for your cooperation in this endeavor.

Is there an age limit for the Private Salkantay trek tour 4 days?

It is important to note that there is no age limit for the Salkantay private tours 4-days 3 nights. however, for safety purposes, we recommend a minimum age of 6 years old. this is due to the presence of steep sections that may prove challenging for younger individuals. our team prioritizes the safety and well-being of our customers, and we believe that this recommendation will help ensure an enjoyable, memorable, and safe experience for all who embark on this journey with us. we appreciate your understanding and look forward to providing you with an exceptional experience on the Salkantay trek.

How many kilos is it allowed to carry on the Salkantay trek?

As per our porter and horse policy, our staff and horses carry the necessary camping equipment. however, we understand that as a guest, you may wish to carry your own personal belongings, there is no weight limit for guests. so you can carry the weight that you want. we saw some people carrying up to 30 kg.

Is there any location where I can plug and charge my electronic devices on the Salkantay trek?

Please note that electricity is only available at certain lodges or campsites depending on the itinerary. to ensure a comfortable stay, we highly recommend that all visitors bring along extra portable battery packs or power banks to keep their devices charged.

What is the temperature rating of Cachi life Peru sleeping bags?

We offer top-quality mummy-style sleeping bags that are designed for use in temperatures as low as -15°c / 5°f.

Which campsites do you usually book for your groups?

During the booking process, you will be presented with different campsite or lodge options depending on availability. the locations usually include Soraypampa, Chaullay, Lucmabamba, or Collpapampa as part of the standard Salkantay route. these options allow you to arrive in Machu Picchu town on day 3 and visit Machu Picchu early on day 4.

Starting from

US$610 USD

Duration

4 Days

Destination

Cusco

Type of activity

Alternative Treks to Machupicchu, Trekking in Cusco

Our team is ready to help. Send us a message on WhatsApp or contact us online — we’ll get back to you right away.

Tours that may interest you

Discover more adventures similar to this experience.

Palccoyo full day tour

Discover the magic of Palccoyo, the land of the three Rainbow Mountains. This easy and uncrowded alternative to the classic Rainbow Mountain offers a peaceful one-day hike through breathtaking Andean scenery. In just a short walk, you will witness three vibrant rainbow-colored mountains, the impressive Ausangate peak, the serene silence of the Vilcanota range, and even a surreal stone forest. Perfect for travelers seeking spectacular landscapes without the crowds.

From $35 per person

Shared Group Inca Trail to Machu Picchu 4 Days / 3 Nights

Embark on the 4-day Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, a journey through stunning Andean landscapes and ancient Inca sites. Trek through lush cloud forests, subtropical valleys, and historic ruins, including Wayllabamba, Llactapata, and Wiñaywayna. The adventure culminates with the breathtaking descent through the Sun Gate to reveal the iconic Machu Picchu citadel. Perfect for those seeking a multi-day immersion in history, nature, and the magic of the Andes.

From $800 per person

Tour Manu Cultural 3 Days And 2 Nights Bus / Bus

Explore Manu’s cloud forest and wildlife on a 3-day journey from Cusco, featuring vibrant birds, rainforest trails, Machuwasi Lake, and a sunrise visit to the Parrot Clay Lick.

From $300 per person

What Our Travelers Say

Authentic stories from travelers who explored Peru with us.

Posted on Tripadvisor Tripadvisor
Andy profile picture
Andy
Tripadvisor star 1Tripadvisor star 2Tripadvisor star 3Tripadvisor star 4Tripadvisor star 5Verified
Mejor Compañía Turística en Perú Nuestro guía era Franklin y era el mejor. Era un grupo pequeño, así que podíamos solicitar paradas de baño adicionales o descansos para comer algo. Frank era tan conocedor y era de la zona. Realmente hizo la gira. Su personalidad era contagiosa. Nos encantó Franklin y recomendaría esta compañía. El recorrido fue impresionante.
Posted on Tripadvisor Tripadvisor
kvjohns1 profile picture
kvjohns1
Tripadvisor star 1Tripadvisor star 2Tripadvisor star 3Tripadvisor star 4Tripadvisor star 5Verified
Gran experiencia! Usé Cachi Life para reservar un guía privado para dos circuitos de Machu Picchu. Mi guía era José Luis y era genial. Me recibió en mi hotel, y fue una experiencia perfecta conseguir boletos de autobús y llegar al sitio. Él estaba bien informado, sabía los mejores momentos para entrar en los circuitos, y conocía los mejores spots de fotos. Fue paciente y me dejó tomar tantas fotos como quería! También pudo ajustar el recorrido para complementar un circuito que ya había hecho el día anterior.
Posted on Tripadvisor Tripadvisor
Sightsee06248125018 profile picture
Sightsee06248125018
Tripadvisor star 1Tripadvisor star 2Tripadvisor star 3Tripadvisor star 4Tripadvisor star 5Verified
Loved the Inka Trail We have just completed 4 day Inka trail to Machu Pichhu. It was amazing. Our guide, Guillermo was passionate, caring, engaged,knowledgeable and a lot of fun. The food was also amazing.
Posted on Tripadvisor Tripadvisor
Miranda profile picture
Miranda
Tripadvisor star 1Tripadvisor star 2Tripadvisor star 3Tripadvisor star 4Tripadvisor star 5Verified
Machu Pichu Tour I had Jose as my tour guide and he was very knowledgeable and took great pictures! He let me take as many pictures as I wanted and assured me that we had all the time to take it all in! Would definitely recommend Jose.
Posted on Tripadvisor Tripadvisor
Alena S profile picture
Alena S
Tripadvisor star 1Tripadvisor star 2Tripadvisor star 3Tripadvisor star 4Tripadvisor star 5Verified
Personalized, worry free travel The Best trip organizers. You get a worry free vacation, with personal touches, real dedication, passion, honesty and sincerity tailored to your interests, budget and physical ability. We learned so much, never felt rushed or pressured and really appreciated the hand holding along our journey. David is a passionate, honest, punctual businessman and Franklyn an unparalleled story teller, walking you through Peru's history at your pace, both physically and intellectually. Thank you for helping me fulfill my life's dream.
Posted on Tripadvisor Tripadvisor
Compass11152998617 profile picture
Compass11152998617
Tripadvisor star 1Tripadvisor star 2Tripadvisor star 3Tripadvisor star 4Tripadvisor star 5Verified
Palcoyo, 7 lagoas de ausengate, Manu e Machu Picchu Marquei 3 tours com o David e ele foi 5 estrelas em todo o processo. Sempre muito atencioso e preocupado. Para além dos tours, também nos indicou a sua irmã Yanete para nos guiar por Machu Picchu. Foi fantástica!!Obrigada David, por tudo!
Posted on Tripadvisor Tripadvisor
Michele Ricco profile picture
Michele Ricco
Tripadvisor star 1Tripadvisor star 2Tripadvisor star 3Tripadvisor star 4Tripadvisor star 5Verified
¡El mejor viaje! Thanks to CachiLifePeru Mi esposa y yo acabamos de regresar de un viaje de dos semanas a Perú, todo el viaje lo hicimos con Cachi Life, especialmente con David y Frank. Fue un tour privado que incluyó varios destinos, todos ellos realizados íntegramente para nosotros dos, con coche privado y siempre en compañía de ellos. Su profesionalidad fue evidente desde el principio: presupuestos enviados por correo electrónico, asistencia en la planificación del itinerario, y se encargaron de comprar todas las entradas para atracciones y actividades. El viaje comenzó en Lima, y pasamos por Paracas, Huacachina, Ica, Nazca, Cañón del Colca, Arequipa, Lago Titicaca, Puno, Valle Sagrado y Cusco, con excursiones a las Montañas Arco Iris, Huayna Pichu y Machu Pichu. ¿Qué puedo decir? Fue simplemente el viaje más hermoso de nuestras vidas. Descubrimos un país maravilloso no solo por sus lugares y vistas, sino también, y sobre todo, por su cultura y gente local. Gracias a Cachi Life, entramos en contacto con la auténtica cultura peruana, comiendo comida tradicional en cada ciudad, apoyando a la comunidad de comida callejera y descubriendo los valoresestas maravillosas personas comparten. No sentimos que tuviéramos un viaje turístico, sino más bien una experiencia única e inolvidable con dos personas expertas y profesionales, enamoradas de su país ysu cultura. Gracias Cachi Life Perú, y especialmente David y Frank; nunca te olvidaremos!
Posted on Tripadvisor Tripadvisor
robynlucass profile picture
robynlucass
Tripadvisor star 1Tripadvisor star 2Tripadvisor star 3Tripadvisor star 4Tripadvisor star 5Verified
Love Cachi Life! My mom and I had a private 3 nights /4day Salkantay trek with Cachi Life. Upon booking our trip (while in Canada) David was very helpful through WhatsApp and email. He answered all my questions and sent pictures of the tickets for Machu Picchu in advance. Before the trek, David arrived at our hotel in Cusco with our guide and gave us a great briefing about what to expect for the trek. The trek with our guide, Adrian was amazing. Adrian, our cook and horseman were kind and helpful throughout the whole trip. They always ensured we were happy. The food was delicious, the trek was beautiful and the tent /sleeping bags were comfortable.We recommend Cachi Life for safe, fun and local experience.
Posted on Tripadvisor Tripadvisor
Pioneer277524 profile picture
Pioneer277524
Tripadvisor star 1Tripadvisor star 2Tripadvisor star 3Tripadvisor star 4Tripadvisor star 5Verified
Excellent guide and tour with Cachi Life! We had the most wonderful two days with our Cachi Life guide, Franklin, touring Sacred Valley (Moray, Maras, Chinchero, Ollantaytambo and Machu Pichu). He was very professional, friendly, knowledgeable and had a clear love for his country which helped us learn and appreciate the things we were seeing and the lands we were standing on. He took his time to point out details that we would have never noticed had we decided to tour on our own. We never felt rushed through any of the sites and he took the time to answer our questions (especially our son who had so many questions!!). David, the owner of Cachi Life, is also Franklins brother. It was nice to know we were working with a local owned company. David was also very responsive to our questions while we were planning. Our experience in sacred valley and Machu Pichu would not nearly be what it was without Franklin. Highly highly recommended Cachi Life!!
Posted on Tripadvisor Tripadvisor
tstewart profile picture
tstewart
Tripadvisor star 1Tripadvisor star 2Tripadvisor star 3Tripadvisor star 4Tripadvisor star 5Verified
Gran viaje a Perú con la ayuda de Cachi Life! Me comuniqué con David con Cachi Life cuando comencé el proceso de planificación de nuestro viaje a Perú. David era tan agradable y me ayudó a incluir ver casi todo lo que queríamos en nuestro corto viaje de 7 días! ¡Él respondió a todas mis preguntas! Cuando llegamos a Cusco se reunió con nosotros para asegurarse de que conocíamos nuestro itinerario y de nuevo respondió a todas nuestras preguntas. Su hermano Frank era un guía turístico increíble! Él era tan conocedor de la historia y la cultura. Siempre se aseguró de que tuviéramos mucho tiempo viendo todo lo que queríamos y nunca nos sentimos apresurados. Recomiendo encarecidamente utilizar Cachi Life cuando se necesita un guía turístico en Perú!