Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu 4 days – Backpacker

• Lunch and dinner on the last day.
• Boiled water for the trek (carry your own or purchase along the way).
• Entrance to Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain ($60, book in advance).
• Guide at Machu Picchu for other circuits than circuit 2 and timeslot 06:00h.
• Aguas Calientes hot springs entry fee.
• Trekking poles rental (from $15).
• Sleeping bags rental ($15).
• Tips for staff.
• Shuttle bus between Machu Picchu and Aguas Calientes ($15 per person, walking is free).
• Bus from Hidroelectrica to Cusco.
• Travel insurance.
• Personal expenses, snacks, or additional activities not listed in the itinerary.

Personal items

• Daypack and reusable water bottle.
• Small change in Peruvian soles for snacks or tips.
• Passport (original).

Clothing

• Rain jacket or poncho.
• Waterproof trekking boots.
• Trekking shirts (long and short sleeve), pants, and socks.
• Insulated jacket and gloves for cold weather.
• Comfortable sandals and bathing suit.
• Hat with a brim and sunglasses.
• Warm beanie and sweatpants for nightwear.

Additional gear

• Sleeping bag (rentals available).
• Flashlight/headlamp with batteries.
• Sunscreen and insect repellent.
• Snacks for the trek.

The Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu 4 days – backpacker takes you on a breathtaking journey through the Andes to the iconic Machu Picchu. This trek is perfect for adventurers who want a mix of scenic beauty, cultural experiences, and physical challenge.

Day 1: Start to Lagoon Humantay

The adventure begins with a scenic drive and breakfast in Mollepata. The trek kicks off at Challacancha, taking you to the base camp at Soraypampa, where you’ll enjoy lunch. The highlight of the day is visiting Humantay Lagoon, a turquoise gem surrounded by snow-capped peaks.

Day 2 of Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu 4 days: Hike the Salkantay Pass

Day 2 is the most challenging yet rewarding. You’ll climb to the Salkantay Pass, the trek’s highest point, offering panoramic views of majestic mountains. Descending through rocky landscapes, you’ll reach Wacracmachay for lunch and Collpapampa for a well-deserved rest.

Day 3: Into the jungle

The trek transitions into the vibrant cloud forest. You’ll pass coffee and banana plantations while learning about local flora. After lunch, transport takes you to Hidroeléctrica, followed by a scenic hike to Aguas Calientes, the base town for Machu Picchu.

Last day of Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu 4 days backpacker: Machu Picchu

The final day is the highlight: visiting Machu Picchu, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The guided tour covers the history and architecture of this ancient Incan city. After exploring, you’ll return to Cusco by train and car, bringing your unforgettable journey to a close.

Facts about the Salkantay Trek 4 days backpacker

• Salkantay means “Savage Mountain” in Quechua, reflecting its rugged beauty.
• The trek offers diverse ecosystems, from snow-capped peaks to tropical forests.
• Machu Picchu remained hidden until 1911, preserving its mystique for centuries.

List of activities during the trek

• Hiking to Humantay Lagoon.
• Trekking through the Salkantay Pass.
• Exploring the lush cloud forest and coffee plantations.
• Visiting the Lost City of the Incas, Machu Picchu.
• Optional climbs to Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain.
• Scenic train ride through the Sacred Valley (if booked).

What to expect on your Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu

This trek crosses high mountain passes and lush cloud forests. Any time of the year, weather can affect trail conditions and the comfort of lodges along the way. Trails may be muddier, steeper, or more slippery, and in rare cases, the route may need to be changed for safety reasons. We always aim to book lodges in good condition, but during the rainy season, some humidity or moisture may still be present. We want you to feel well-informed and well-prepared before starting your trek. If you have any questions or doubts, feel free to ask us — we’re here to help.

Please note: Any missed sections of the trek — for personal, weather-related, or logistical reasons — are non-refundable. If you decide to skip part of the trek (for example, to arrive earlier in Aguas Calientes to purchase a Machu Picchu ticket), this is your own responsibility. Transport, logistics, and any coordination related to this decision are not included in the tour.

This Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu 4 days offers a perfect blend of natural wonders and cultural exploration, making it an experience of a lifetime.