An 8-day route that climbs a 4,600 m pass, traverses cloud forest, and finishes at Machu Picchu. Expect big altitude changes, mule-supported camps, and a mix of archaeological and natural highlights.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
A dawn hush settles over Cusco as the van slips out of town, headlights cutting through thinning air. The Andes open up: sharp ridgelines, a white crown of Salkantay, and a trail that moves relentlessly from alpine tundra into dripping cloud forest. By the time camp is pitched the stars have ceded to a pale, cold light and the mountains keep watch.
Difficulty
challenging
Duration
8 days
Fitness Level
Good cardiovascular fitness with previous multi-day hiking experience recommended; ability to handle long ascents and high altitude.
Wildlife
History
The trail traverses Inca and pre-Inca landscapes—Moray’s circular terraces likely served as agricultural experimentation fields, while salt pans at Maras demonstrate centuries-old communal resource use.
Conservation
Trails cross fragile ecosystems; stick to established paths, carry out trash, and support local guides and community-run sites to reduce impact.
Reserve your spot on the 8-Day Salkantay Trek Tour to Machu Picchu from Cusco today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Acclimatize before you go
Spend at least 48 hours in Cusco to reduce altitude sickness risk and hydrate well before starting the ascent to Salkantay Pass.
Layer for rapid weather shifts
Temperatures can swing from sub-freezing at dawn to warm midday sun—use base, insulating, and waterproof layers.
Break in your boots
Trek on varied terrain—rock, scree, muddy trails—so wear properly broken-in hiking boots to avoid blisters and ankle strain.
Reserve Machu Picchu tickets early
Entrance slots and mountain side hikes (Huayna/Machu Picchu Mountain) sell out—book them before you travel.
Sturdy waterproof hiking boots
Offers ankle support and traction on rocky, muddy, and steep terrain.
Insulating mid-layer (fleece/down)
Keeps you warm during cold camp nights and high-pass mornings.
winter
Lightweight waterproof shell
Protects from cloud-forest downpours and wind at higher elevations.
summer
Hydration system (1.5–2L) with purification tablets
Keeps water accessible en route and provides backup in remote stretches.