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Enjoy an unforgettable Salkantay Trek and Short Inca Trail excursion, a four-day trip to Machu Picchu, ideal for those who wish to explore every corner of the route with a more efficient schedule. This carefully designed itinerary achieves a perfect balance between activities, mountain views, and cultural experiences, such as archaeological sites, immersing the hiker in the majesty of the Andean mountains, glacial formations, and the fascinating valleys that stretch across the salt flats in just four days of exhilarating experiences.
Highlights: Salkantay Inca Trail KM 104 4 days
The trek begins between 4:00 and 4:30 a.m. The expedition guide will pick you up from your accommodations in Cusco as the group assembles, and a private vehicle will take you to the highlands of the Anta province. This itinerary follows a scenic route through valleys, traditional villages, and Andean farmlands, providing an introductory overview.
After approximately two hours, the group stops in Mollepata, where breakfast is prepared at a local establishment. This break also allows travelers to purchase last-minute items such as snacks or water; the entire stay in Mollepata lasts half an hour.
The journey continues with a one-hour drive to Soraypampa, the starting point of the Salkantay Trek, at an altitude of 3,900 meters (12,000 feet), which is the official starting point of the trek. The trekkers prepare their backpacks and begin the ascent. The hike takes about two hours to reach Humantay Lagoon. Once there, you’ll have time to enjoy the scenery and take photos before descending back to Soraypampa and heading towards the Quiswaraniyoq campsite.
The trekking team will serve a hot lunch, followed by free time to relax and enjoy the spectacular mountain views or explore the surrounding area. In the evening, a freshly prepared dinner will be served.
The day begins very early, around 4:30 a.m., with a traditional coca leaf infusion served in your domes to help acclimatize to the altitude. Around 5:10 a.m., breakfast is served, and personal belongings are collected.
The group continues ascending to the Salkantay Pass at 6:00 a.m., which is located at 4,650 meters (15,000 feet), the most challenging part of the trek. The ascent will take approximately 3 to 3.5 hours, at a steady pace with frequent breaks. The trail offers hikers breathtaking views of glaciers, snow-capped peaks, and high Andean landscapes, but it is challenging.
Upon reaching the pass, participants will have time to rest, take photos, and enjoy the beautiful view. The guide will explain the spiritual significance of these mountains in Andean cosmology. Visitors typically spend 30 to 45 minutes at the site, depending on the weather.
After this, the transfer to the meeting point begins, following pre-arranged transportation arrangements. The group then returns to Cusco by road, arriving in the late afternoon or evening. This provides the necessary rest before the following day’s Short Inca Trail trek.
At dawn, passengers will be transferred from their hotel by bus to Ollantaytambo (a 2-hour journey) and then to the train station for a scenic ride to Km 104, the starting point of the Short Inca Trail. Once the trek begins, passports and permits will be collected at the checkpoint, followed by the hike along the original Inca stone paths.
The trail winds through a lush cloud forest, past streams and over ancient staircases. The group will visit spectacular archaeological sites along the way, including Winay Wayna, one of the most impressive ruins on the trail. The guide will delve into the historical, religious, and agricultural significance of these sites.
The trail leads to Inti Punku (Sun Gate) after several hours of hiking, from where hikers can enjoy a panoramic view of Machu Picchu. Here, the journey will continue to the starting point, followed by a short transfer to Aguas Calientes.
Upon arrival, participants will be transferred to their hotel, where they can rest, shower, and relax. Dinner will be served at a local restaurant, and the guide will provide a full explanation the following day.
On the final day, the trip culminates with the highlight of the journey: Machu Picchu. Today, you will board a bus to the main entrance of the citadel early in the morning, depending on your entry time.
Here, your guide will lead you on a guided tour of approximately two hours. The tour will cover the main areas of Machu Picchu, such as temples, terraces, plazas, and ceremonial areas. The guide will explain the history, architecture, and spirituality of the site.
After the tour, you will return to Aguas Calientes, where you can have lunch (not included). Afterward, you will take the train for the second time to Ollantaytambo and then private transportation back to Cusco.
The four-day adventure, combining the Salkantay Trek and the Short Inca Trail, typically concludes in the afternoon in Cusco. The best itinerary will depend largely on how far in advance you book this tour.
The Sakantay Trek and Short Inca Trail 4-Day Tour is available all year round. Tour prices are based on the number of people in a group. Prices are valid from March 2026 through January 2027. All prices quoted are in $USD.
Here is your packing list, and go over what is helpful, and what is a waste of money and backpack space.
How difficult is this tour?
This itinerary is not particularly difficult, except for the Salkantay Pass, which is the most challenging part on the second day.
Is acclimatization necessary?
Acclimatization is recommended; to get used to the altitude, two or three days in Cusco would be advisable.
What about accommodation during the tour?
Our accommodation on the expedition will consist of camping in Soraypampa, spending one night in Cusco on the second day, and staying in a hotel in Aguas Calientes on the third day.
Are meals included?
All meals available during the trek include food consumed in Cusco, but not meals eaten in Aguas Calientes.
Is the Machu Picchu entrance ticket included?
Access to Machu Picchu, including a guided tour, is also included in the tour package.
Is the permit for the Short Inca Trail included?
The permit for the Short Inca Trail (km 104) is fully included in the itinerary.
What is the best time to do this trek?
The best time to be there is between April and October, during the region’s dry season.
Is the trek suitable for beginners?
While the trek is suitable for people with a basic level of fitness, a good level of physical fitness is strongly recommended.
Are there horses or porters?
Indeed, horses are used to carry camping equipment on the Salkantay section, providing participants with additional support.
Is there a risk of altitude sickness on this trek?
Although some hikers may experience mild effects of altitude sickness, proper acclimatization will prevent related risks.
Are trekking poles allowed?
The use of trekking poles is not only acceptable but highly recommended for maintaining stability. The poles should have rubber tips to grip the trekking trail surfaces.
What type of hotel is used in Aguas Calientes?
In Aguas Calientes, accommodation is provided in a well-equipped tourist-class hotel, with a private bathroom in each room.
Are dietary needs accommodated?
Of course, we can easily arrange vegetarian and vegan diets, or any other type of diet, if you notify us in advance.
What is the group size?
Our groups are intentionally small to medium-sized to ensure that all participants enjoy a personalized experience.
Is travel insurance required?
While not strictly mandatory, we strongly recommend that all participants obtain comprehensive travel insurance.
What happens in case of bad weather?
The tour generally takes place in varied weather conditions; However, route plans may be modified to ensure safety in case of bad weather.
Are tips included in the tour price?
Tips for guides and staff are not included in the price but are entirely optional.
Is there a luggage limit?
A small duffel bag can be used for daily activities; larger bags can be left in Cusco for use during the trek.
Is this tour available year-round?
The tour is available year-round, except in February when the Inca Trail is closed for maintenance.
Do I need a passport for the trek?
You will need your original passport to obtain permits and to enter Machu Picchu.
What time is our stop in Cusco on the last day?
The last train journey back is usually in the afternoon, and of course, the schedule will vary depending on the trains.
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Go Treks Peru was founded by Elisban Condori, a local tour guide with years of experience leading treks to Machu Picchu. His goal is simple: to offer top-quality, authentic experiences led by passionate professionals who truly know the Andes.
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