3-Day Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu

From$680
3 days
Cusco, Peru

About this activity

Embark on a 3-day adventure through the Salkantay Pass to reach the iconic Machu Picchu, experiencing diverse landscapes and rich Incan history along the way.

Highlights

  • Trek through the stunning Salkantay Pass
  • Experience diverse Peruvian landscapes
  • Visit the ancient Incan site of Llactapata
  • Enjoy panoramic views of Machu Picchu
  • Explore the Sacred Valley's rich culture

Full description

Embark on an exhilarating 3-day journey through the breathtaking Salkantay Pass, leading you to the iconic Machu Picchu. This trek offers a unique blend of adventure, culture, and natural beauty. Over three days, you'll traverse diverse terrains, from high-altitude mountain passes to lush cloud forests, all while immersing yourself in the rich tapestry of Incan history. Along the way, you'll visit the ancient site of Llactapata, offering panoramic views of Machu Picchu from a unique vantage point. Each day concludes with comfortable camping arrangements, ensuring a restful night before the next day's adventure. This trek is perfect for those seeking an off-the-beaten-path experience to the famed Lost City of the Incas.

Included / Excluded

  • Professional English-speaking guide
  • All necessary trekking equipment
  • Meals during the trek
  • Transportation to and from Cusco
  • Entrance fees to Machu Picchu
  • Personal expenses
  • Tips for guides and porters
  • Accommodation in Cusco before and after the trek

Important information

Know before you book

  • Ensure you have a moderate level of fitness to handle the trek's challenges.
  • Be prepared for early morning starts and long days of hiking.
  • Confirm your booking well in advance, as permits are limited and sell out quickly.

Know before you go

  • Wear sturdy hiking boots suitable for diverse terrains.
  • Bring a lightweight, waterproof jacket for unexpected weather changes.
  • Carry a refillable water bottle to stay hydrated throughout the trek.

Cancellation policy

0

All sales are final. No refund is available for cancellations.

Good to know

  • It's recommended to arrive in Cusco at least 2 days before the trek to adjust to the altitude.
  • Machu Picchu permits are limited and can sell out several months in advance. We recommend booking at least 5 months ahead for travel between May and August
  • Passport name, number, expiry and country is required at time of booking for all participants
  • Please ensure your passport is up to date and ready for use on your travel day
  • Solo travelers are welcome and can join shared groups. No minimum participants required. Most departures are guaranteed.

Traveler reviews

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Great experience

Great experience, great communication before the trek started, our guide Saul was fantastic, very knowledgeable, helpful and funny. The activities were fun and finishing at Machu Picchu was perfect

X9138KCjordanhSep 13, 2026TRIPADVISOR

Salkantay 3 days

We had a great time and experienced many special moments. Everything was super organized and we had great accommodations. Julio César and Pedro were both super guides with a lot of experience. With 12 people, the group size was very pleasant, yet you could always walk at your own pace while hiking. The food from the accompanying chefs was also very delicious. All in all, I would definitely recommend the tour, next time I'll even book the 5-day tour :-)

F8455TGnicolasSep 3, 2026TRIPADVISOR

IF YOU HAVE THREE DAYS DO IT

Fantastic experience, with impressive landscapes. It is tough but it is worth it. We finished delighted.

marabeciaAug 25, 2026TRIPADVISOR

Excellent

We did the Salkantay trek, a wonderful experience, with our guide Cesar Siccos, who was very pleasant and spoke very good English, as well as with Augustina, Ruan, Elio, and Nerio, who accompanied us as cook and horsemen. Their work was of very high quality, and we have rarely eaten as well, even at a restaurant. Super experience!

852murielkAug 5, 2026TRIPADVISOR

Wonderful

Wonderful!! It's very worth it. The first day, which is the climb to saltankay was very difficult and so it is good to have good physical conditioning and be ready for the climb. The descent is very tiring too. Almost 12 hours of trekking. But the view and experience are worth too much. Very beautiful. Very organized agency. Nothing went beyond what was planned.

Cosmopolitan532629Aug 5, 2026TRIPADVISOR

Additional information

Spots at Machu Picchu sell out quickly. Book this trip at least two months in advance to secure spaces.