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The 3-Day Salkantay Trek presents an exhilarating and less frequented pathway for adventurers aiming for a quicker journey to Machu Picchu. Managed daily by SALKANTAY TREKKERS PERU, this trek is both accessible and cost-effective, catering to those with limited time or budget restrictions.
Despite its abbreviated length, the 3-Day Salkantay Trek delivers a magnificent expedition through a variety of terrains, including glaciers, rivers, lagoons, and lush jungle valleys. Participants will ascend to the trek’s pinnacle, Abra Salkantay, standing at 4,630 meters (15,226 feet), offering awe-inspiring vistas of the Peruvian Andes.
To accommodate the condensed three-day schedule, SALKANTAY TREKKERS PERU ensures that trekkers join a group at the initial campsite, complete with seasoned guides, culinary staff, and support personnel. This setup provides an affordable trekking experience with the necessary assistance for a successful adventure.
The 3-Day Salkantay Trek both starts and concludes in Cusco, with certain distances reduced by vehicle transport to fit the tighter timetable. Although the walking distances might be marginally longer compared to other Salkantay trek options, they remain achievable for well-prepared and enthusiastic trekkers.
Choosing the 3-Day Salkantay Trek allows you to savor the highlights of the Salkantay trail while visiting the legendary Machu Picchu on the final day before returning to Cusco in the afternoon. This streamlined itinerary is ideal for travelers eager to explore the stunning Andean landscapes without committing to an extended trek.
Included in the package price is a ticket to the Inca citadel of Machu Picchu, which we purchase on your behalf. Generally, this ticket includes access to Circuits 1, 2, or 3 for the guided tour at Machu Picchu. To secure a spot on these sought-after circuits, booking your tour at least three months in advance is crucial. If these circuits are fully booked, alternatives such as Circuits 4 or 5 will be provided to ensure you still experience the unforgettable visit to Machu Picchu.
The primary distinction between the circuits lies in their entry points to Machu Picchu. Circuits 1, 2, and 3 offer access from the upper sections of the site, providing panoramic views and prime photo opportunities of Machu Picchu. Conversely, Circuits 4 and 5 allow access from the lower areas, which do not present the classic views of Machu Picchu.
It’s important to understand that no single circuit encompasses the entire Inca citadel. However, each circuit includes a guided tour lasting between 2 to 2.5 hours with an expert guide, ensuring a thorough and educational experience at Machu Picchu.
3-Day Salkantay Trek Overview
Max. 10 People
Moderate
Cusco - Peru
Hiking
3 B, 2 D, 2 L
Daily departures
Start with a 2:00 AM hotel pickup for a 3-hour transportation to Soraypampa, which is the starting point for that unforgettable hike.
Join your Salkantay trek group for a breakfast after your arrival in Soraypampa while preparing for a 20-kilometer trek. And just after 6:30, you will begin the first climb to the highest point of the Salkantay trail at 4,630 meters above sea level: Abra Salkantay.
After hiking for about 3 hours, rejoice at the summit while taking memorable photographs of the mighty Salkantay Mountain. Take a short moment to thank the Apus (Andean deities) for their guidance.
The descent will finally be 15 kilometers from the top until you reach the 2,900-meter mark. The downhill trek to the lunch spot should take approximately two hours, with the second part going for another 3 hours to reach the next campsite at Chawllay.
During the distribution of diverse scenery, see picturesque glacier peaks, calm lagoons, rugged hills, and emerald grasslands while absorbing the lush green jungle environment as you approach the camp.
Arrive at Chawllay and hit the shower. Enjoy a cold beer, or whatever refreshes you, while the cooks prepare comforting tea time and delicious dinner to recharge you for tomorrow’s adventurous deeds.
Get ready to dive right into the jungle ecology on this day. Wake at 6:00 AM to sip coca tea; this will be followed by a delicious breakfast for good energy during the day.
At 7:00 AM, start the hike to La Playa Sahuayaco, which will take about 5 hours. You traverse the picturesque Santa Teresa Valley, shaped by the winding Salkantay River. Together, explore the various plantations belonging to coffee, bananas, avocados, coca, and passion fruits.
After a five-hour hike, reach La Playa Sahuayaco and take a local transportation mode for an hour-drive to Santa Teresa. Relax and have lunch, after which you are picked up to be driven for 45 minutes to Hidroelectrica. From that point, walk along the train tracks toward the quaint Aguas Calientes, which might take about three hours.
Your journey ends by checking in at the hotel in Aguas Calientes, where you freshen up and take a rest. Dinner is served at a local restaurant at around 7:00 PM, after which you all go back to the hotel to sleep and recover for the big day to come.
To reach Machu Picchu’s main gate from Aguas Calientes, you have two options: embark on a scenic 1.5-hour hike or take a convenient bus ride costing $12. You can decide on the day of your visit. Regardless of your choice, your day begins bright and early at 4:00 AM with a delicious breakfast at your hotel in Aguas Calientes.
If You Choose to WALK:
If You Choose the BUS:
Optional Hikes:
Return Options to Cusco:
IMPORTANT NOTE: ITINERARY FOR THE FINAL DAY AT MACHU PICCHU
The final day’s itinerary at Machu Picchu depends on ticket availability for your chosen circuits (Circuits 02, 01, 03, or 04). Check availability at www.machupicchu.gob.pe. If Circuit 02 tickets for 6:00 AM, 7:00 AM, or 8:00 AM are unavailable, the itinerary will be adjusted accordingly. For alternative options, refer to the Alternative Itinerary Options for Machu Picchu Visit link to ensure a fulfilling experience despite any changes in schedule or circuit availability.
At Salkantay Trekkers Peru, we pride ourselves on offering fair and transparent pricing for the unforgettable Salkantay trek to Machu Picchu. Here’s what you need to know:
Fair Pricing: Our rates reflect the value of your experience, ensuring quality service without hidden costs.
Group Tours: Join groups of 10-12 people, with a maximum of 16, for an affordable, shared experience.
Guaranteed Departures: Even with just 2-3 people, your tour is guaranteed, offering flexibility and reliability.
Flexible Booking: Select any available date and join a group that fits your schedule.
Differentiated Pricing: We offer varied rates for adults, students, and children, plus options for returning to Cusco by car or train after visiting Machu Picchu.
Our transparent pricing ensures you receive exceptional service at a competitive price. With Salkantay Trekkers Peru, your Salkantay trek will be both memorable and accessible.
Prices: Salkantay Trek 5 Days to Machu Picchu (2024 – 2025)
Salkantay Trek with Return by Car:
Adult: $335 USD per person
Student: $315 USD per person (Valid student ID required)
Child (8-17 years): $315 USD per person
Car Option:
Hike 3 hours from Machu Picchu to the hydroelectric station by 11 AM.
Catch a 3 PM car for a 6-7 hour journey to Cusco, arriving around 10 PM.
Both options end at Plaza Regocijo in Cusco. Choose the one that suits your preferences for a remarkable journey.
Salkantay Trek with Return by Train:
Adult: $400 USD per person
Student: $375 USD per person (Valid student ID required)
Child (8-17 years): $3750USD per person
Car vs. Train Return Options
Train Option:Depart Aguas Calientes at 2:30-3:20 PM (based on availability).
Enjoy a 1.5-hour train ride to Ollantaytambo, followed by a 2-hour transfer to Cusco. Arrival at approximately 6:30 PM.
Student Discounts for Machu Picchu
The Peruvian government provides discounts for students. To qualify for these special rates, ensure you meet the following requirements:
Age: Must be under 25 at the time of your visit.
Valid Student ID: A physical, plastic card with your name, university details, photo, and a validity date that does not expire before your visit.
ISIC Card Exclusion: ISIC cards are not accepted for student discounts in Peru.
Important: You must present your valid student ID at Machu Picchu. Failure to do so may result in paying the full ticket price.
How to Book the Salkantay Trek
Booking the 5-Day Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu is simple:
Pricing:
Train Return: $395 (adult), $310 (student/child).
Car Return: $330 (adult), $310 (student/child).
Reservation Prepayment: A non-refundable deposit of $180 USD per person is required to secure your spot. This covers your Machu Picchu entry ticket and accommodations.
Remaining Balance: Pay upon arrival in Cusco at our office (cash or card with a 3.9% fee).
Full Payment Option: Pay the entire cost online. In case of cancellation, the $180 deposit is non-refundable.
Steps to Book Your Adventure
Click “BOOK ONLINE”: Access our reservation platform to begin.
Select Dates & Travelers: Choose your preferred start date and the number of adults, students, and children.
Add Extras: Enhance your trek with optional tickets to Huayna Picchu, Machu Picchu Mountain, or a Vistadome train upgrade.
Complete Personal Details: Provide accurate information for all participants.
Secure Payment: Pay online with a debit or credit card.
After booking, you will receive an immediate confirmation email. Our reservations team will follow up within 24 hours with a detailed itinerary and further instructions.
Why Choose Salkantay Trekkers Peru?
Our expert-guided tours ensure an incredible journey through the Andes, culminating at the breathtaking Machu Picchu. With transparent pricing, flexible booking, and top-notch service, we make your adventure unforgettable.
Book now for a once-in-a-lifetime experience on the Salkantay trek!
Salkantay Trek 3-Day Essentials
For the 3-day Salkantay trek, you’ll need personal trekking gear and a sleeping bag. If you don’t have a sleeping bag, you can rent one from us, as well as trekking poles if desired. We provide the rest of the necessary equipment.
Personal Trekking Gear to Pack:
Essential Documents for the Trek:
Note: Machu Picchu Reservations provides a duffle bag in which you can pack up to 7 kilos of personal belongings. These will be carried by horses during the trek. You’ll carry your small backpack with daily essentials while trekking, and you’ll have access to your duffle bag at each campsite.
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