MEALS

2B, 2L, 2D

GROUP SIZE

02 Min – 08 Max

MAX. ALTITUDE

4650 msnm

DIFFICULTY

Desafiante

The Salkantay Trek Challenge

3 Days / 2 Nights

The Ultimate Challenge to the Sacred Mountain

Short on time but seeking an unforgettable adventure in Peru’s Andes? The 3-Day Salkantay Challenge is the ultimate test of endurance and spirit. In just two days, trek 52.50 km (32.62 miles) across rugged Andean trails and lush jungle, passing towering snow-capped peaks, cascading waterfalls, and the enchanting cloud forest. This isn’t just a trek—it’s a transformative journey to push your limits, reconnect with your inner self, and immerse yourself in the untamed beauty of Peru.

The grand reward? Machu Picchu, the legendary UNESCO World Heritage Site. Few experiences rival the thrill of standing before this iconic citadel, surrounded by breathtaking views and a deep sense of accomplishment. Ready to rise to the challenge? Peru’s most exhilarating adventure is waiting for you!

The Salkantay Trek Challenge 3 Days

The Salkantay Trek, also known as the Savage Mountain Trek, is a spectacular alternative to the classic Inca Trail, perfect for those short on time but eager for adventure. This journey immerses you in stunning biodiversity and offers a glimpse into remote Andean communities off the beaten path.

Your adventure begins with a thrilling ascent to the Salkantay Pass, where the sacred Salkantay Mountain dominates the horizon. Along the way, marvel at breathtaking views of glaciers and towering peaks. From the pass, descend into the mystical cloud forest, transitioning to the warmer, lush jungle edge as you approach the legendary Inca citadel.

Spend your second evening in Aguas Calientes, resting for the ultimate highlight: Machu Picchu. On day three, the awe-inspiring first view of the citadel will take your breath away. A guided tour reveals its history, mysteries, and brilliance before you return to Cusco, completing a life-changing journey.

 

ITINERARY AT A GLANCE

Day 1: Cusco – Mollepata – Challacancha – Humantay Lake – Soraypampa – Chaullay – La Playa Loreta

Conquer the challenging hike to the Salkantay Pass, where you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking views of snowy peaks and an awe-inspiring landscape. Then, descend through the enchanting cloud forest and spend the night immersed in nature at our serene, exclusive Campsite.

Day 2: La Playa Loreta – Llactapata – Hidroelectrica – Aguas Calientes

Hike through the lush Santa Teresa Valley to La Playa for lunch and a coffee demo, then continue to Aguas Calientes to relax before dinner and prepare for Machu Picchu.

Day 3: Aguas Calientes – Machupicchu – Aguas Calientes – Ollantaytambo – Cusco

The day is here! Explore Machu Picchu at dawn, enjoy breathtaking views, and return to Cusco with unforgettable memories.

 

HIGHLIGHTS

  • Experience one of the world’s top 25 treks, as recognized by National Geographic, on the renowned Salkantay Trek—your ultimate alternative to the Inca Trail, completed in just three unforgettable days.
  • Push your limits and embrace a transformative journey that reconnects you with nature and your inner self.
  • Marvel at the majestic Apu Salkantay glacier and snow-capped peaks in some of the most breathtaking landscapes on Earth.
  • Descend through the enchanting cloud forest, a mystical ecosystem teeming with life and wonder.
  • Share incredible moments with fellow adventurers from around the world, creating lifelong memories along the trail.
  • Spend your first night immersed in tranquility at our exclusive Camp, surrounded by nature’s serenity.
  • Conclude your trek at the awe-inspiring Machu Picchu, uncovering its ancient mysteries and timeless beauty.
DAY 01: CUSCO |MOLLEPATA – SORAYPAMPA – SALKANTAY PASS – CHAULLAY – LORETA LA PLAYA

Highlight of the day: Arrive at Salkantay Pass and contemplate the most magnificent landscape.

Overcome the Challenge to the Salkantay Pass.

We will come and pick you up between 2:30 to 3:00 am and drive to Soraypampa for 3 hours we will stop to have breakfast and then start walking at about 6:30 am Because this day will be the longest day the first 4 hours is uphill to get the highest point of the Salkantay Trek (4650m/15200ft) located halfway between 2 huge mountains; Salkantay on the right and Tucarhuay on the left. From the pass, the views of the 2 snow-capped mountains are incredible. There is a possibility of snow here.

After a rest, we will continue our walk (downhill) through a dramatic cloud forest towards Huayracpunku, where we will have lunch. We hike again after lunch in the direction of the start of the jungle until we reach chaullay or Colcapampa Where we take our local transport to get to our private campsite of domes which is Loreta La playa(3000m/9800ft).

1ST DAY:

  • Total distance: 19 km (approx.)
  • Estimated walking time: 8 – 9 hours
  • Maximum altitude point: 4,650 m (approx.)
  • Campsite altitude: 2,750 m (approx.)

 

DAY 02: LORETA LA PLAYA |HIDROELECTRICA – AGUAS CALIENTES

Highlight of the day: Explore the jungle region of Cusco and observe all the beautiful flora and fauna native to the area.

Enter Cusco’s Tropical Paradise.

After breakfast, at 6.00 am, we start walking through the upper jungle crossing the Lucmabamba River and a variety of little brooks to reach La Lucmabamba Village walking between 5 to 6 hours. Today we will pass through valleys and have wonderful views of waterfalls, tropical fruit, and plants as soon as we are at Hidroelectrica we will have our lunch and then we start walking to Aguas Calientes which takes 2 hours. this night we will stay in a hotel and take a nice shower to be ready for Machupicchu

2ND DAY:

  • Total distance: 16 km (approx.)
  • Estimated walking time: 7-8 hours
  • Maximum altitude point: 2,750 m (aprox.)
    altitude: 1,900 m (aprox.)

 

DAY 03: AGUAS CALIENTES |MACHU PICCHU – OLLANTAYTAMBO – CUSCO

Highlight of the day: Explore the jungle region of Cusco and observe all the beautiful flora and fauna native to the area.

Enter Cusco’s Tropical Paradise.

Early in the morning, after breakfast at the hotel, we will drive to the main entrance of the Machu Picchu citadel. Your original passport will be verified here with your Machu Picchu ticket, so be sure to bring your physical passport.

As you enter the citadel, you will see the golden rays of the morning sun reflecting off the walls of Machu Picchu, while the blanket of clouds will reveal the citadel to you. We will give you a brief introduction to the Inca empire.

We will visit different highlights of the citadel, including the ceremonial site, the agricultural sector, the remains of the royal quarters, and more.

After the guided tour, you will have time to enjoy the views of the Inca citadel. If you have booked an additional hike to Huayna Picchu, Machu Picchu mountain, or another, our guide will indicate the corresponding starting point.

Once you have fully enjoyed the view, we will leave the citadel and walk to Aguas Calientes. Here you will have free time to have lunch or walk around the town.

Later, we will board a train to Ollantaytambo. Our representative will meet you at the train station and transfer you back to your accommodation in Cusco.

Day 3 Trek Summary:

  • Total distance: 4 km (approx.)
  • Estimated walking time: 1- 2 hours
  • Maximum altitude point: 2,700 m (approx.)

At Pacha Peru Explorers, we specify the included and non-included services under all the tour itineraries listed on our website. We take care of all the logistics, but please pay attention to the details to avoid missing anything. Some items may be different for specific programs, so please read carefully before booking with us.

 

The Salkantay Trek Challenge 3 Days Includes:

  • Private Tourist Transportation to Mollepata for 2 hours and 1 hour extra to Soraypampa to get better views and skip the dusty road. (We never share Bus service with other companies as most agencies do here to minimize costs).
  • English – Spanish speaking guide for 3 days of the Inca Trail and Machupicchu.(All our Guides work for us only) All of them speak Fluent English.
  • 1 Night in Glamping Sky Lodge Dome at LORETA LA PLAYA ( Twin bed room, Matrimonial bed room, 3 beds room, 4 beds room Accomodation).
  • Day 1: Loreta la Playa Glamping Sky Lodge Dome.
  • Day 2: Aguas Calientes Hostel Accomodation.
  • 1 Night Accomodation Overnight in Aguas Calientes(Twin bed room with Private bathroom and shower).
  • Cook and assistance of the Cook.(We have chosen the best cook/cheffs and all are trained by Pacha Peru Explorers every month).
  • Cooking equipment (We use New cooking equipment and change all every 3 months).
  • Snacks (Fruits, energy bars).
  • Daily tea service (Wake up Coca tea and afternoon tea time(Happy hour) with full of popcorn and special snacks made by our cooks).
  • Dining equipment including portable chairs and tables.
  • Food service in the campsites (2 breakfast, 2 lunches, 2 dinners, 2 snacks) – nutritionally balanced menu: Buffet style Plenty of food you will never be hungry with us! as well as Guinea Pig for free because we want you to taste all from Peru.
  • Vegetarian and free Gluten menu at no extra cost (Please let us know at the time of booking).
  • Transportation La Playa or Lucmabamba to Hydroelectrica Day 2 (For our Staff).
  • Horseman and Horses.(To carry our camping equipment, food and 7 kilos of your personal stuff like: sleeping bag and mat as well as cothes) We Never overload our Horses(well Animal Welfare). And we will Provide you a Duffel bag(at The Briefing Time) for all your personal stuff to be carried by horses.
  • Salkantay Trek and Machupicchu entrance fees, valid for 3 days.
  • Insurance policy of life for porters and cooks.
  • Visit to Machu Picchu on the 3rd day (2 hours guide tour to explore the whole incan site).
  • Return Tourist Expeditions train ticket from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo.(2 hours ride)Train time is Between 6:20pm to 9:30pm. And if you upgrade to Vistadome the train will be at 3:48pm.
  • Private Transportation from the train station of Ollantaytambo to Cusco(2 hours drive) and drop off at the hotel.(we only use our Private Transportation. so you will never wait at the train station till the bus of 30 ppl gets full).
  • First-aid kit (Our Guide will carry while on the Inca Trail) Please, note all our Guides are trained every year in first-aid).
  • Emergency oxygen bottle (Our guide will carry while on the Trail).
  • Rain waterproof cover for your day backpacks.
  • Pre trek Orientation – briefing A day before we do the Trek. (Hotel or Office) Let us know once you are at the office or by email.
  • Water for Driking: we will supply with filtered and boiled water and your bottles will be filled at each meal time. Please, bring enough water for the 1st day.

 


 

The Salkantay Trek Challenge 3 Days Does Not Include:

  • Meals: Breakfast on Day 1 and Lunch on Day 3.
  • Salkantay Entrance Fee (20 soles).
  • Return bus ticket consettur from Machu Picchu to Aguas Calientes (Day 3).
  • Train from Hidroelectrica to Aguas Calientes (Day 2): in case you feel exhausted or in bad condition after the trek from La Playa, you can opt to take the train from Hidroelectrica to Aguas Calientes.
  • Travel insurance.
  • Tips for our staff: While our team receives fair salaries, any additional gesture is always appreciated in recognition of their hard work and dedication. Participants often choose to pool their tips and present them directly to the hiking team or through their guide.
  • Additional costs or delays beyond our control: Landslides, bad weather conditions, itinerary modifications due to a safety concern, illness, pandemia, government policy changes, political instability, strikes, act of God, etc.

 


 

The Salkantay Trek Challenge 3 Days – Packing List:

This 3-day hike takes place at high altitude, Most people automatically assume that the weather is hot in South America, but because of the higher altitude in the Andes, the temperature can feel quite cold, especially at night. We recommend the use of a duffel bag or backpack, whichever is easiest for you to carry. A good size daypack is also essential.

Essentials for the trail:
  • Backpack (25-30 liters). Light and comfortable.
  • Passport (required for checkpoints).
  • Hiking boots (already broken in).
  • Warm, windproof jacket. Soft-shell or insulated jackets help you stay warm at high altitude.
  • Trekking poles (optional).
  • Extra cash for tips and small purchases.
What to carry in your daypack:
  • Passport.
  • Sunglasses, sunscreen, and hat.
  • Rain poncho.
  • Snacks.
  • Extra cash for souvenirs.
  • At least 2 liters of water in a reusable bottle.
What to pack in the Duffle Bag:
  • Sandals or comfy shoes for the campsite.
  • Your main hiking shoes (if not wearing them). Hiking boots are not strictly necessary, but preferred.
  • Warm clothing for early mornings and nights. It’s really cold in Cusco and the mountains, especially at the campsite.
  • Light hiking clothing: Including hiking pants and, if possible, long-sleeved shirts.
  • Underwear and personal items.

“The Short Choquequirao Route” can leave any day of the week, from March through January. We don’t operate this itinerary in February because of the rainy season & maintenance of the route.

 


 

2025 Land Cost

Group Price: US$ 680.00 per person

Required Pre-payment: US$ 200.00 per person

Balance (Cusco): US$ 480.00 (Commonly paid in Cusco after the briefing).

This small-group journey is guaranteed to operate with just two guests.

Notice that PayPal, credit cards charge a 6% fee for the use of their secure payment gateway. This tax is just for online and card payments. You can also pay the remaining balance in cash (the briefing day) without charges.

 


 

Price Guarantee

Once your booking has been confirmed, we guarantee the Price won’t increase, whatever the circunstances. So please, before booking, ensure you’ve read all our important tour information.

 


 

Student Discount

US$20.00

Student discounts apply to anyone 17 years old or younger. To receive the discount, we require a copy or clear photo of the passport at the time of booking. It must be valid and not expire within the travel dates. Please send it to [email protected]

The Salkantay Trek Challenge 3 Days Travel Info

We want to make your trip to Peru as memorable and as carefree as possible. In this section, you’ll find the answers to all the questions you have about traveling with Pacha Peru Explorers in one place. Please read the following information carefully – it will help you with any questions about our services.

How difficult is this hike?

This is a moderately challenging hike due to the altitude and the uphill sections. You’ll walk several hours each day, but the pace is steady and there are plenty of breaks. If you’re reasonably fit and acclimatized, you’ll be just fine.

What is the highest altitude on the route?

The highest point of the trek is Wayra Punku Pass (also known as Waywakunka), which sits at 4,774 m / 15,663 ft above sea level. Humantay Lake sits slightly lower, at 4,200 m / 13,779 ft.

What’s the weather like in Salkantay?

The weather can be unpredictable. Days are usually clear and sunny, but mornings and evenings get cold, especially near the glacier. Rain is always a possibility, even in the dry season, so bring layers and rain gear just in case.

Is camping gear included?

Yes! Pacha Peru Explorers provides everything you need: Domes – sky camps, sleeping pads, warm blankets, and even a duffle bag for your belongings. You just need to bring your clothes and personal items.

Can I rent trekking poles?

Yes, trekking poles are available for rent. While they’re optional, they’re highly recommended—especially for the uphill and downhill sections.

What if I get altitude sickness?

Altitude can affect anyone, even if you’re fit. The team carries oxygen and a first-aid kit at all times, and the pace is designed to help with acclimatization. We also recommend arriving in Cusco at least 1–2 days before the hike to adjust.

Are there toilets or showers at the campsite?

There are clean, basic toilets at the campsite, but no showers. We do provide warm water for washing up in the morning and evening.

Thank you for your interest in having and adventure travel experience in Peru curated by Pacha Peru Explorers. Please take a moment to complete our short form, so one our friendly Adventure Consultants could provide you all the information for your trip of a lifetime in Peru.

 

Our Pledge | Your privacy is respected and protected. the Pacha Peru Explorers Company will never share, sell, or make public any of your personal contact information to third parties.

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Remember | One of our Travel Experts will contact you soon to confirm the availability of the trip you chose, give you more information, and/or provide you alternative options. Once availlability is established, we will ask for a deposit and a completed online registration to confirm your spot on the trek. Please call us at (+51) 950 705034 with any questions or to confirm availability over the phone.

Tour Price
The Salkantay Trek Challenge

Price

680

USD

Per Person

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The Pacha Peru Explorers Difference

Pacha Peru Explorers is a 100% peruvian, separates ourselves by our dedication to both our customer and our team. We work very hard to make sure that all our clients needs are taken care of throughout the tour with us. At the same time, we never forget about our brothers and sisters working tirelessly for us to make all of this possible. Responsible and sustainable tourism that gives as much to our community as to our clients.

Camping Equipment

Persinal Porters of 7 kg Included

Private Toilet Tents

Safety on the Trail Satellite Phone

Social Projects

The Best Trekking Food in Peru!

Nossos Viajantes Estão felizes

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