HOW LONG IS SALKANTAY TREK TO MACHU PICCHU? AN UNFORGETTABLE JOURNEY THROUGH THE PERUVIAN ANDEAN MOUNTAINS

Have you planned your trip to Cusco and looking forward to experiencing Machu Picchu in a unique way? Without a doubt, the Salkantay Trek is one of the best options you can choose, as it’s an extraordinary experience that will take you through majestic landscapes until you reach the seventh wonder of the world, Machu Picchu.

You may still have doubts about how long is Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu? Don’t worry, in this blog, we will provide you with all the information you need to plan your adventure. So, get ready for an unforgettable adventure with Inkayni Peru Tours.

We will provide you with all the necessary details so that you can enjoy your Salkantay Trek experience to the fullest. Don’t wait longer, start planning your journey and get ready to live unforgettable moments on the way to Machu Picchu!

One of the greatest challenges in Peru, the Salkantay Trek.

WHAT IS THE SALKANTAY TREK?

The Salkantay Trail is one of the most famous trekking routes in Peru. It offers an exciting and challenging experience through the breathtaking landscapes of the Peruvian Andes, and it’s considered to be the second well-known route to the lost city of the Incas, Machu Picchu. This trek has become a popular choice for those seeking an exciting and less crowded adventure than the traditional Inca Trail.

Along the Salkantay Trek, you will enter a variety of breathtaking landscapes, from majestic mountains to lush valleys and tropical rainforests. The route will take you through steep and challenging trails as you cross the Salkantay Pass (4,630 m/ 15,190 ft). This experience will give you spectacular panoramic views and allow you to connect closely with nature and the grandeur of the Andes.

In addition to natural beauty, the Salkantay Trek also offers the opportunity to explore archaeological sites and discover the rich history of the Incas while you trek, also you will be rewarded with a breathtaking view of Machu Picchu, a world wonder, in the end. The Salkantay Trek is truly a fascinating option for adventure and nature lovers who wish to live an unforgettable experience in the Peruvian Andes.

Women hiker on the Salkantay Trek

HOW MANY KILOMETRES DOES THE SALKANTAY TREK COVER?

The Salkantay Trail has a total length of approximately 74 kilometres, making it a multi-day trek that requires endurance and physical preparation. Along the route, you will encounter a variety of breathtaking landscapes, from snow-capped mountains to cloud forests and lush valleys.

Sunny day in the Salkantay Trek

HOW LONG IS THE SALKANTAY TREK IN MILES?

If you prefer miles, the Salkantay Trek is approximately 46 miles long. This distance covers different sections of the trek, including steep climbs, challenging descents and varied terrain keeping you captivated every step of the way.

The Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu is recognised as one of the most impressive trekking routes in the world.

WHERE DOES THE SALKANTAY TREK START?

The classic 5D/4N Salkantay Trek and 07 Days Salkantay Trek & Inca Trail start in Challacancha, the starting point located in the Apurimac River Valley. From there, you will begin your trek into the Andes heights, passing through breathtaking scenery and camping in picturesque locations.

There are other versions of the Salkantay Trek, such as the Salkantay Trek 4D/3N or the Salkantay 02 Days with Humantay Lake starting in Soraypampa, Mollepata.

Trekkers starting the Salkantay Trek

WHERE DOES THE SALKANTAY TREK END?

The Salkantay Trek culminates at the magnificent Inca citadel of Machu Picchu, one of the 7 wonders of the modern world!! Once you arrive at Machu Picchu, enjoy exploring this ancient city and marvelling at its splendour. You can wander its cobblestone streets, visit Inca temples and houses, and admire this historic site’s architecture and ingenuity. You can climb to the highest point of Machu Picchu, Wayna Picchu, for an even more impressive panoramic view.

The Salkantay tour is designed to reach Machu Picchu by a different and wonderful route!

VERSIONS OF THE SALKANTAY TREK

• Salkantay To Machu Picchu 4 Days 03 Nights
• 05 days Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu
• 07 days Salkantay Trek & Inca Trail To Machu Picchu

SALKANTAY TREK TO MACHU PICCHU 4D/3N

The Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu in 4 days and 3 nights is the shortest route, an exciting route that will take you through breathtaking landscapes and allow you to experience the rich Inca culture. During this trek, you will immerse yourself in the natural wonders of the Peruvian Andes and finally arrive at Machu Picchu’s famous citadel.

HOW LONG IS THE SALKANTAY TREK 4 DAYS/ 3 NIGHTS?

The 4 day/3 night Salkantay Trail is the shortest version of the trek and it follows an accelerated route to complete the trek in a shorter period of time.

Illustrative map of the Salkantay Trek 4 days and 3 nights

ITINERARY AND DISTANCE OF THE SALKANTAY TRAIL 4 DAYS/ 3 NIGHTS

DAY 1: CUSCO – MOLLEPATA – SORAYPAMPA – SOYROCCOCHA (12 KM)

This wonderful trek starts very early in Cusco, at 4:00 a.m., driving 2.5 hours towards Mollepata Town. Furthermore, will take again the VAN for 50 minutes leading to Soraypampa, the access point to the Salkantay Valley and the starting point of the trek.

From Soraypampa you will trek approximately for 3 hours until we reach Salkantaypampa (4,100 m/ 13,451 ft). Salkantaypampa is magic, the place where you will eat lunch in the foothills of the Salkantay glacier. After a short helpful rest, we continue slowly to our camp at Soyroccocha (4,600 m / 14,336 ft). Here we will settle in for the night right at the base of Salkantay Mountain, which has an astounding height of 6,271 m / 20,574 ft.

Day 1: Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu 4D/3N

DAY 2: SOYROCCOCHA – SALKANTAY PASS – CHAULLAY (20 KM)

Wake up and witness the dawn! After a hearty breakfast, you will climb the Salkantay Pass (4,630 m/ 15,190 ft), and once you arrive there, you will reach the highest point and feel above the world! A stunning view of the snow-capped mountains and its valley awaits you at this point. Afterwards, we will descend the trail towards Wayraqmachay, and eat our delicious lunch there. Along the trail of this day, you will notice the differences in the natural ecosystems, the Peruvian Andes hides, you are going to walk through, and finally, before it gets dark, we will arrive to the campsite, Colpapampa.

Salkantay to Machu Picchu 04 days 03 nights route map – day 2

DAY 3: COLLPAPAMPA – SAHUAYACO – HYDROELECTRIC – AGUAS CALIENTES (20 KM)

You will get up and, immediately, contemplate the super environment surrounding you. The breakfast is going to wait for you, and you can not imagine how beautiful that moment will be.

Later, hiking from the campsite to La Playa takes, more o less, 5 hours. The part of the trekking trail offers you the opportunity to observe its lush vegetation, birds, orchids, mammals and so on. Once you arrive at La Playa, our VAN will wait to transfer you to the Hydroelectric plant. This drive takes 2 hours, and you can rest or observe the valley’s agricultural area.

Finally, the last stretch of the trek, you are almost done! Trekking from the hydroelectric plant to Aguas Calientes takes 3 hours, but, unless you don´t want to continue trekking, you can take the train. In Aguas Calientes, you can rest and prepare to visit Machu Picchu the next day. You will spend the night in accommodation at Aguas Calientes.

Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu 4D/3N on day 3

DAY 4- MACHU PICCHU – CUSCO

This is the most memorable day because you will visit one of the wonders of the world, Machu Picchu!! After visiting Machu Picchu and having and spectacular guided tour inside Machu Picchu, we will take the bus back to Aguas Calientes and then take the train back to Ollantaytambo. Last but not least, our VAN is going to wait to transfer you from Ollantaytambo to Cusco. That’s how the Salkantay Trek 4 days/3 nights ends.

Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu 4D/3N on day 4

SALKANTAY TREK 5 DAYS/ 4 NIGHTS

Illustrative map of Salkantay trek to Machu Picchu 05 days 04 nights

HOW LONG IS THE SALKANTAY TRAIL 5 DAYS/ 4 NIGHTS?

The Salkantay to Machu Picchu 5 days/4 nights is one of the most famous trekking routes among adventurers and is considered one of the best too. If you are looking for a challenge that combines nature, culture and history, the Salkantay to Machu Picchu 5-day trek will be the perfect choice. Discover day by day the exciting route and the challenges you will face at each stage:

ITINERARIES AND DISTANCES OF THE SALKANTAY TREK 5 DAYS/ 4 NIGHTS

DAY 1 – SALKANTAY TREK: CUSCO – MOLLEPATA – SORAYPAMPA – HUMANTAY LAKE (12 KM)

This wonderful trek starts very early in Cusco, at 4:00 a.m, driving 2.5 hours towards Mollepata town (2900 m/9515 ft). Furthermore, will take again the VAN for 20 minutes leading to Challacancha, the starting point of the trek.

In Challacancha our horsemen team is going to wait for you, carry your luggage in the mules and then, we will head to Soraypampa by walking 4 hours. Incredibly, this section of the trek is located in an inter-Andean valley, between mountains and with a very pleasant climate.

Once we get to Soraypampa, our campsite, we will eat lunch and then, go to Humantay Lake! Which is catalogued as one of the most beautiful lakes in Cusco. Once we get to Soraypampa, our campsite, we will eat lunch and rest for a while. In the afternoon, Humantay Lake is waiting for you. While this is a famous tourist attraction in Cusco, you will be able to witness its beauty in a much less crowded environment.

Day 1: Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu 5 days

DAY 2 – SORAYPAMPA – CHALLWAY (22 KM)

After a nutritious breakfast and a beautiful sunrise, we will begin the most difficult part of our trek. We will start the trek around 7:00 a.m. towards Salkantaypampa on the right face of Humantay mountain. Around noon we will be at the highest point (4600 m/15095 ft) of the entire trek.

At this point, take your time to contemplate the spectacular views of the Andean mountains and the imposing snow-capped Salkantay (6264 m/20561 ft), known as the second-highest mountain in the Cusco region. Furthermore, we will descend a little further to have lunch at Huayracmachay.

Our last trek of the day will take approximately 4 hours until to arrive at Chaullay.

Day 2: Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu 5 days

DAY 3 – CHALLWAY – LA PLAYA – LUCMABAMBA (18 KM)

After breakfast, we will start our trek for approximately 5 hours to Sahuayaco Beach (2,064 m/ 6,771 ft). In the morning, we will walk through a village called Collpabamba, and during the trek, it is possible to observe waterfalls, fruit trees, a variety of flora and different species of birds. So, if we are lucky, we will also observe the famous Peruvian national bird, called the Andean Cock-of-the Rock.

Once in Sahuayaco, we will eat our lunch, and then walk for a couple of hours to reach Lucmabamba (2000 m/ 6561 ft), our last camping area and also the beginning of the Llaqta Pata Inca Trail.

MAP DAY 3: Salkantay Trek 5 days to Machu Picchu

DAY 4 – LUCMABAMBA – LLAPTAPATA – HYDROELECTRIC – AGUAS CALIENTES (17 KM)

Around 8:00 a.m., we will start our walk gradually for about 2 hours until we reach Llaqta Pata, which is a beautiful archaeological site and connects to the Inca sites of Sayacmarka and Machu Picchu. We will have enough time to explore this beautiful Inca site, and then we will start our descent for 90 minutes to the hydroelectric plant (a power station).

We can rest for some minutes before starting the last part of the trek, from the hydroelectric plant to Aguas Calientes. This route is going to take at least 3 hours, but it is beautiful because of the location and nature surrounding you. It is possible to find toucantes, motmots, tanagers, wrens, etc.

Once we arrive in Aguas Calientes, we will check in at the hotel and go out for dinner together in one of the many restaurants in the area.

DAY 4: Salkantay Trek 5 days to Machu Picchu

DAY 5 – SALKANTAY TREKKING: LAST EASY STRETCH TO THE SEVENTH WONDER: MACHU PICCHU

The last day starts around 6:30 a.m., have breakfast and then take one of the first buses to Machu Picchu. There is certainly one worthwhile reason to be at Machu Picchu’s main entrance early.

If you arrive early at Machu Picchu, you will enjoy it less crowded! Also, the weather in the morning is cool and super.

In Machu Picchu, our guide will give you a tour of Machu Picchu for about 02 hours to learn about the history and most important temples. After your tour, if you still have energy, we recommend you climb to Huayna Picchu (optional, if you have permits and/or entrance tickets required bought in advance), from where you have an impressive and spectacular view of Machu Picchu and it takes 90 minutes.

After finishing our visit, we will take the bus back to Aguas Calientes. In Aguas Calientes is possible to eat lunch and then board the train back to Ollantaytambo. Finally, return to Cusco.

DAY 5: Salkantay Trek 5 days to Machu Picchu

SALKANTAY TRAIL AND INCA TRAIL TO MACHU PICCHU 07 DAYS

This tour is made for adventurers looking to push their limits in the Peruvian Andes, but also for those who don’t know whether to do the Inca Trail or the Salkantay Trek! Throughout the whole trek, you will learn about the Incas’ lifestyle, flora and fauna, stories and overcome new challenges climbing mountains up to 5000 m/ 16404 ft.

Salkantay and Inca Trail 7 days – Inkayni Peru Tours.

HOW LONG IS THE SALKANTAY TREK & INCA TRAIL TO MACHHU PICCHU?

The 07 day Salkantay Trek and Inca Trail to Machu Picchu is 82 kilometres/ 51 miles.

ITINERARIES AND DISTANCES OF THE SALKANTAY TREK & INCA TRAIL TO MACHU PICCHU

DAY 1: CUSCO – HUMANTAY LAKE – SORAYPAMPA (12 KM / 7.45 MILES)

Early in the morning, you will be picked up from your hotel in Cusco City and head 2 hours to Mollepata. Once you arrive in Mollepata, you can have breakfast, do last-minute shopping, use the toilets, etc. Afterwards, we will head to our trek starting point, Challacancha (3,900 m/12,795 ft.).

The first part of the trek will take us 4 hours to reach the camping location, Soraypampa (3,900 m/ 12,795 ft.). We will have lunch at Soraypampa, and then trek for another 2 hours until Humantay Lake! (5, 650 m/ 18, 536 ft.).

There will be enough time for us to see its turquoise water and the snow-capped Humantay up close. Later, we will go back to Soraypampa to have dinner and rest under a starry or cloudy sky.

Day 1: Salkantay Trek and Inca Trail

DAY 2: SORAYPAMPA – SALKANTAYPAMPA – PAMPA JAPONESA (9 KM/5.59 MILES)

The second day will also start early for breakfast. Then, we will ascend to Salkantaypampa (6,271 m / 20,574 ft), and this route takes approximately 90 minutes.

After that, we continue up to our next camp, Pampa Japonesa (4,600 m / 15,091 ft). Pampa Japonesa is the closest and last location to the glacier of Salkantay before ascending to the high pass the next day. Remmember, this day is not easy to conquer because you trek over 4200 m / 13779 ft almost all day.

Day 2: Salkantay Trek and Inca Trail

DAY 3: PAMPA JAPONESA – INCACHIRIASKA – INCA AQUEDUCT (12 KM/7.56 MILES)

During this day’s trek, it is common to observe the majestic flight of the Andean Condor. Also, the altitude will test your strength as we ascend to the highest pass of the whole trek, Incachiriaska (5,338 m / 17,513 ft). This point is even higher than Salkantay Pass! So, fewer travellers choose this trek.

Finally, after approximately 3 hours we will descend into the valley below for a more gentle trek. Afterwards, upon arrival at our camp at Inca Aqueduct (2800 m / 12467 ft), we will share dinner together and rest after this rough day.

Day 3: Salkantay Trek and Inca Trail

DAY 4: INCA AQUEDUCT – HUAYLLABAMBA – AYAPATA (14 KM/ 8.7 MILES)

Today, you start hiking into the Inca Trail! Firstly, start at the Paucarcancha archaeological site and after some minutes of hiking you will arrive in Huayllabamba. At Huayllabamba, you will have a tasty lunch and it is the Inca Trail control access.

After lunch and the presentation of Inca Trail entrance tickets, we will hike a little more until we get to our camping location, Ayapata.

Day 4: Salkantay Trek and Inca Trail

DAY 5: AYAPATA – WARMIWAÑUSQA – CHAQUICOCHA (16 KM/ 9.94 MILES)

Probably this day is the toughest day of the trek because you conquer two passes over 4000 m / 13123 ft.

After a nutritious breakfast, we will ascend to Warmiwausqa Pass (4,200 m / 13,779 ft). After conquering this pass, we will descend back to the cloud forest and an environment full of native queuña trees. There is a great diversity of flora and fauna here, including abundant hummingbirds. Afterwards, we will arrive at Pacaymayo camp to eat our lunch and rest.

All this, before continuing to our final destination, Runkurakay (3,760 m / 12,150 ft). Research says that Runkuyakay was believed to be the Inca astrology temple. Meanwhile, camp will be at Chaquicocha (3,400 m / 11,154 ft) for dinner and another night under a starry sky.

Day 5: Salkantay Trek and Inca Trail 7 days

DAY 6: CHAQUICOCHA – PHUYUPATAMARCA – WIÑAYWAYNA (10 KM/ 6.21 MILES)

On the sixth day after a light hike, we will explore Phuyupatamarca. One of the most impressive ceremonial platforms which has good construction techniques compared to other ones. Afterwards, we will visit Wiñay Huayna (the eternal youth mountain in Quechua).

From here, you can feel and sense Machu Picchu’s energy that intensifies with every step. Also, far below and down, views of the Sacred Valley and the Urubamba River appear. Finally, our camp will be near Wiñaywayna (2,650 m / 8,692 ft) so, we are going to have a good time for dinner and rest.

Day 6: Salkantay Trek and Inca Trail 7 days

DAY 7: WIÑAYWAYNA – MACHUPICCHU – CUSCO (5 KM / 3.1 MILES)

If you want to witness the most gorgeous sunrise on the planet, you must wake up early.

On the last day, we have to get up before sunrise for a quick ascent of 1 hour to the famous Sun Gate “Inti Punku” (2,730 m / 8,956 ft). We will observe Machu Picchu at the most precious moment of the day above Machu Picchu, from Inti Punku.

Later, we will head down for another hour towards One of the Seven New Wonder of the World, Machu Picchu. In Machu Picchu, the guide is going to show you Machu Picchu at its best! The tour inside Machu Picchu last approximately 2 hours.

After the guided tour, you will descend to Aguas Calientes. In Aguas Calientes is possible to have lunch and rest before taking the train back to Ollantaytambo. Once you arrive at Ollantaytambo, you will be transferred to Cusco.

Day 7: Salkantay Trek and Inca Trail 7 days.

IN A NUTSHELL, HOW LONG IS THE SALKANTAY TREK? – INFORMATION TABLE

HOW MANY DAYS IN CUSCO BEFORE THE SALKANTAY TREKKING?

The recommended time to spend in Cusco before the Salkantay Trekking is at least two days in Cusco before starting the trek.

1. The first day in Cusco is usually used for acclimatisation to the altitude. Cusco is at a considerable elevation, so it is wise to allow your body to gradually adjust to the altitude before embarking on a strenuous trek. During this day, you can engage in gentle activities and explore the city at a leisurely pace. You can also get plenty of rest and drink plenty of water to help your body adapt.
2. The second day in Cusco can be used to learn about and enjoy the city’s charms. You can visit the main tourist attractions. We recommend the City Tour of the Plaza de Armas, the Cathedral of Cusco, the Qorikancha and the various museums that gather Inca treasures. You can also do some last-minute shopping, pack trekking equipment and rest properly before trekking begins.

Spending at least two days in Cusco before the Salkantay Trail will allow you to acclimatise to the altitude. In addition, you will be able to soak up the region’s culture and history. Remember that everyone has different levels of adaptation to altitude, so it is essential to listen to your body and adjust your acclimatisation time according to your individual needs.

Book now and write your own story conquering the Salkantay trek!

Now you know how long is the Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu? Don’t think twice! Embark on this unforgettable trek! With Inkayni Peru Tours book your Salkantay Trekking adventure now and live an epic experience. Don’t miss the opportunity to explore the majestic landscapes of the Peruvian Andes and immerse yourself in the history of the ancient Inca civilization! Click here to plan your trip and create unforgettable memories on the Salkantay Trail.