A rugged four-day trek from the high puna to the humid foothills, the Salkantay route climbs a 4,630 m pass and finishes with Machu Picchu. Expect long days, cold nights under camp tarps, and a final morning at the citadel before your train home.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
You wake before dawn in Cusco, bundled against thin, cold air, and ride west as mountain shadows peel back to reveal a jagged skyline. The trail climbs from high puna into wind-scoured passland, then eases through cloud forest where rivers dare you closer with every step. By sunrise at the pass the Salkantay massif—a snow-capped spine at roughly 4,630 m—dominates the horizon and the wind feels like a living thing.
Difficulty
challenging
Duration
4 days (daily hiking 5–9 hours)
Fitness Level
Fit hikers comfortable with long days at altitude; prior multi-day trekking experience recommended.
Wildlife
History
Salkantay was revered by pre-Columbian communities as an apu, a sacred mountain; many modern routes run parallel to ancient trade paths that fed the Sacred Valley.
Conservation
Stick to established campsites, avoid open fires, and use licensed operators who follow local waste-management practices to reduce erosion and preserve fragile high-altitude ecosystems.
Reserve your spot on the Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu 4 Days (Return by Train) today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Acclimatize in Cusco
Spend 24–48 hours in Cusco before the trek—slow easy walks, sleep well, and avoid alcohol to reduce altitude sickness risk.
Prebook Machu Picchu & Train
Entrance tickets and return trains sell out in high season; secure both at least 2–3 months ahead to guarantee your slot.
Expect Wet Conditions
Pack a waterproof shell and dry sacks—cloud forest and afternoon storms can drench gear quickly, especially on days descending to lower elevations.
Protect Your Feet
Sturdy, broken-in waterproof hiking boots and at least two pairs of wool or synthetic socks prevent blisters on long descents and rough terrain.
Sturdy waterproof hiking boots
Support and protection for rocky ascents, long descents and wet conditions.
Insulating down or synthetic jacket
Warmth for camp at high elevations where temperatures drop below freezing.
Lightweight rain shell
Breathable waterproof layer for cloud forest rains and sudden storms.
summer
Water purification (tablets or filter)
Treat stream water on lower sections to avoid carrying excessive weight in bottles.