Inca Trail 2027 - Limited permits. Plan early with Apple Travel Peru.
Check availability4 Days / 3 Nights
The Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu is one of the most scenic treks in the world. National Geographic named it one of the 25 best treks worldwide.
This 4-day route takes you from Andean landscapes (3,900m) to lush jungle valleys (2,100m) in Cusco. You will hike to Humantay Lake (4,200m), cross Salkantay Pass (4,650m), explore Llactapata ruins (2,650m) with a direct view of Machu Picchu, and finish with a guided tour of Machu Picchu (2,430m).
You will sleep in exclusive panoramic domes in Soraypampa and Collpapampa with private bathrooms, sauna and jacuzzi, and enjoy restaurant-quality meals prepared by our local chefs.
Group or Private
Trekking, Cultural and Adventure
Up to 8
Glamping Domes (2 Nights) + Hotel (1 Night)
Challenging
4 Days / 3 Nights
Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu – 4 Days / 3 Nights
We begin early, with a 4:00 AM pickup from your hotel in Cusco in our private vehicle. The drive takes us through traditional Andean towns such as Izcuchaca and Limatambo, offering a first glimpse into rural mountain life.
We arrive in Mollepata (2,900m / 9,514 ft), where we stop for breakfast at a local restaurant. This is your chance to fuel up and prepare for the first hike of the adventure.
After breakfast, we continue by vehicle for about 30 minutes to Challacancha, the official trailhead. Here, you’ll make final adjustments to your backpack before starting the trek.
The hike begins along an ancient Inca water channel, gradually ascending toward Soraypampa (3,869 m / 12,690 ft). This section takes approximately 3 hours and sets the rhythm for the days ahead.
Upon arrival, you’ll have time to rest and enjoy a freshly prepared lunch at our Soraypampa panoramic domes campsite, surrounded by snow-capped peaks.
In the afternoon, we continue with a 2.5-hour round-trip hike to the stunning Humantay Lake. Surrounded by glaciers and mountain scenery, the lake’s turquoise waters are one of the highlights of the Salkantay route.
Your guide will provide insight along the way, and you’ll have time to take photos and enjoy the landscape before returning to camp.
Back at Soraypampa, enjoy tea time and dinner, then settle into your exclusive panoramic dome. With cozy beds and clear mountain skies, it’s the perfect place to rest and recharge for the next day.
You wake up surrounded by snow-covered peaks, deep in the heart of the Andes.
After breakfast, we begin the climb toward the Salkantay Pass, hiking for approximately 4 hours through high-altitude terrain. Along the way, we follow the famous ‘Seven Snakes’ route, a winding mountain path that leads into one of the most sacred areas of the trek.
At the Salkantay Pass, we pause to take in the mountain scenery and learn about the spiritual importance of Apu Salkantay, one of the most revered Apus in Andean culture. After time for photos and explanations, we begin our descent.
The trail down toward Chaullay reveals a striking transformation in landscape — moving from stark, alpine terrain into the lush beginnings of the Amazon. This contrast is one of the most memorable transitions of the Salkantay route.
After a well-earned lunch and a short rest, we continue trekking toward Collpapampa, our exclusive campsite for the night. Surrounded by flowing waterways, this area feels peaceful and secluded.
Tonight, you’ll stay in our exclusive panoramic sky domes, one of the most comfortable glamping experiences on the trail. Unwind with sauna and jacuzzi access, enjoy afternoon tea, and relax before dinner.
As night falls, settle into your comfortable 3-star bed, resting beneath a sky full of stars — ready for the journey ahead.
After breakfast, we travel by vehicle into the lush valleys of Lucmabamba, where the landscape shifts dramatically from high Andes to fertile jungle terrain. Our driver drops us at the start of an ancient Inca road, the gateway to today’s hike.
We begin a 3-hour uphill hike to Quelloqasa Pass (2,860 m / 9,380 ft). This section offers wide-open views over the Santa Teresa Valley, with the trail lined by avocado, banana, lime, and orange trees, as well as coffee plants and wild orchids.
At the pass, we take a well-earned break to enjoy the scenery before beginning our descent.
Descending toward Llactapata (2,650 m / 8,690 ft), we arrive at a rarely visited Inca archaeological complex. With your guide, you’ll explore the site and learn about its strategic importance along the route to Machu Picchu.
From Llactapata, we continue a 2-hour descent into the Aobamba Valley, walking through coffee plantations and alongside towering waterfalls — one of the most scenic sections of the trek.
From Hidroelectrica (1,800m / 5,905 ft) we board the train for a short 30-minute ride to Aguas Calientes.
After checking into your hotel, enjoy dinner at a local restaurant and a free evening to explore town or visit the hot springs, perfect preparation for your Machu Picchu visit the next day.
After an early breakfast at 5:00 AM, we board one of the first buses at 5:30 AM for Machu Picchu, pre-arranged by your guide to maximize your time at the site.
Upon arrival, enjoy a 2-hour guided tour of the Inca citadel. Your expert guide will lead you through the most important sectors of Machu Picchu, sharing insight into its history, architecture, and purpose — bringing the Lost City to life.
After the guided tour, you’ll have free time to continue exploring on your own or simply take in the atmosphere.
In the afternoon, return by bus to Aguas Calientes for lunch (not included), then board your train to Ollantaytambo. At the station, a private vehicle will be waiting to drive you back to Cusco, with drop-off at your hotel.
$497 USD per person
Please read carefully the following information; it will help with your questions about our services and the Salkantay trek.
Yes, the Salkantay Trek 4 Days is considered challenging. Day 2 is the hardest, with 18 km / 11 miles and the Salkantay Pass at 4,650m / 15,256 ft. We recommend you spend at least 2 days in Cusco (3,350m) before the trek to acclimatize, and train by hiking 10 to 15 km per day in the months before. Our horses carry your main bag up to 7 kg, so you only need a daypack.
No, you do not need a permit for the Salkantay Trek itself. Unlike the Classic Inca Trail, Salkantay has no limited daily permits. We only need to buy your Machu Picchu entrance ticket and train ticket. During high season (May to September) we recommend booking at least 2 months in advance to secure Machu Picchu Circuit 2 tickets.
Day 1 and Day 2 are very cold. At Soraypampa camp (3,900m) temperatures drop to -5°C / 23°F at night. Day 3 in Lucmabamba and Collpapampa is warm, around 20°C / 68°F. Pack layers: thermal base layer, fleece, down jacket, waterproof gloves and a warm hat for the first two nights.
The $497 USD group price includes private transport from Cusco to Soraypampa, English-speaking guide, 2 nights in panoramic glamping domes (Soraypampa + Collpapampa) with sauna and jacuzzi, 1 night in a 3-star hotel in Aguas Calientes, all meals as per itinerary (3 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 3 dinners), entrance to Machu Picchu, bus tickets up and down, train from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo, transfer to Cusco, horses for equipment, 7 kg personal duffel, boiled water, oxygen, toilet tent, and emergency horse.
The 4-Day Salkantay is shorter and faster. On Day 3 you go from Collpapampa to Lucmabamba, hike to Llactapata ruins, and take the train to Aguas Calientes the same day. The 5-Day Salkantay via Llactapata splits this: Day 3 is only Collpapampa to Lucmabamba with coffee farm visit and hot springs, Day 4 is dedicated to Llactapata ruins and jungle hike to Hidroelectrica, and Day 5 is Machu Picchu. Choose 5 Days if you want a more relaxed pace with hot springs and coffee tour included.
Yes. You can leave your main luggage at our office at Calle Garcilaso 265, Office 201, or at your hotel in Cusco. We provide a duffel bag at your briefing for your trekking clothes – maximum 7 kg / 15 lbs including sleeping bag.
FIRST, to book your Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu, we need you to fill out our booking form by clicking on BOTo book your Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu 4 Days, please fill out our booking form. Click BOOK NOW on our homepage or use this link: BOOK NOW.
We need the following information from EACH participant to buy your Machu Picchu entrance ticket and train ticket. We cannot secure your tickets without this information:
To confirm your trek, we require a deposit of $211 USD per person. You can pay your deposit online by clicking the VISA or PAYPAL symbols at the top of our homepage or on our booking page.
We offer several options to pay your remaining balance. If you want to avoid high credit card fees in Peru, you can pay in cash in US dollars or Peruvian soles at our office in Cusco’s historic center. You will find many ATMs nearby where you can withdraw cash.
If you prefer to pay online, we accept VISA or PayPal. Please note that both platforms charge a 5.5% service fee. To pay via PayPal, log into your PayPal account and use our email address: appletravelperu@gmail.com.
You can pay your balance up to 2 days before your trek departure. Choose the option that works best for you.
You cannot change the dates once we have purchased your Machu Picchu ticket and train tickets. The Salkantay Trek itself does not require a limited permit like the Inca Trail, but your Machu Picchu entrance (Circuit 2) and your train tickets from Hidroelectrica / Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo are non-transferable and non-refundable. If you need to change your date, we will need to buy new tickets at your own cost, subject to availability.
Yes, you must bring your original passport for the Salkantay Trek. Officials check your passport when you enter Machu Picchu and when you board the train. The passport you bring must be the same one you used for your booking.
If you renew your passport or change your name after booking, you have two options:
Altitude sickness can affect travelers at high elevations in Cusco (3,350m / 11,000 ft) and on the Salkantay Pass (4,650m / 15,256 ft). If you exercise regularly and spend at least 2 days in Cusco before the trek, you will usually acclimatize within 24 to 48 hours. Consult your doctor before your trip for advice and medication.
To prevent altitude sickness we recommend drinking plenty of water, drinking coca tea, and taking it slow on Day 1. Our guides carry an oxygen bottle and a first aid kit, and they know how to manage altitude symptoms.
Our Salkantay Trek 4 Days groups have a maximum of 8 trekkers. We specialize in small groups, usually 2 to 6 people, with personalized service.
How Many Cooks and Horses Support the Group?
You will have 1 professional cook per group and 1 horseman. The number of horses depends on your group size:
2 trekkers: 4 horses
4 trekkers: 6 horses
6 trekkers: 9 horses
8 trekkers: 12 horses
Our horses carry all camping equipment, food, and your duffel bag up to 7 kg / 15 lbs. You only carry a daypack with water, snacks, rain jacket and camera.
You’ll be happy to know that there are toilets available on the Salkantay trek, but they are only offered by the locals for a small entrance fee of 1 sole. So be sure to bring some change with you!
When we’re at camp, we understand the importance of having access to a toilet, which is why we have a biochemical toilet set up in a tent at a comfortable distance from your sleeping tent. We want to make sure you have a comfortable and convenient experience on your trek.
Although it is unlikely, if you encounter a health issue that prevents you from completing the Salkantay Trek, Apple Travel Peru is here to support you. We will help you get to the nearest town for transportation assistance. For any respiratory problems, we carry oxygen on the trek. If the situation becomes extreme, we can arrange a helicopter pick-up at your own expense. (Don’t forget to purchase travel insurance!) However, we are unable to provide refunds if you are unable to complete the trek.
Typically, individuals who require assistance are taken to Ollantaytambo. If they recover quickly, they can continue their journey to Aguas Calientes (the cost incurred by the trekker) and visit Machu Picchu according to the original plan.
Before embarking on the Salkantay Trek, it is important to note that it is a fairly challenging trek and requires a good level of physical fitness. We recommend regular exercise and practicing walking long distances, such as 15 kilometers or 9 miles a day, in the months leading up to the trek. It’s also important to acclimatize to the altitude as much as possible, by spending at least 2-3 days in Cusco (which is 3,350m/11,047ft above sea level) before starting the trek. This will help you adjust to the altitude and reduce the risk of altitude sickness. It’s always a good idea to consult with your doctor before embarking on any physically demanding activity.
Absolutely!! Hotel pick-ups and drop-offs are included with all of our packages! If you have booked your hotel in Sacred Valley, we will drop you off there and vice versa.
It will depend on the train availability (during the high season it could book out) but the idea is to give you as much time as possible in Machu Picchu and enjoy the amazing views on the way back to Cusco from the train. Therefore, we usually book the train at 14:55 or 15:20.
The Vistadome train offers larger, more comfortable seats, panoramic windows with a glass ceiling for enhanced views of the Sacred Valley. We serve a light snack and you will enjoy a live cultural show on board with traditional Andean music and dance. You can upgrade to the Vistadome Train for $67 USD. These trains run from Aguas Calientes to Poroy. We will you up in Poroy and drive you back to Cusco, which takes about 25 minutes. Please request in advance.
If you’re pleased with the services you’ve received from our staff, we welcome any gratuities you may wish to offer. While tipping may not be a standard practice in your home country, it is an essential part of the tourism industry in many destinations we operate in. Tipping inspires our staff to provide exceptional service, and it is greatly appreciated. The amount you choose to tip is entirely up to you and should be based on the quality and duration of your trip. We want to emphasize that tipping is not mandatory and should only be given if you feel you’ve received excellent service.
Absolutely! Apple Travel Peru is committed to being a responsible tourism operator that prioritizes sustainability and local engagement. We believe in following universal principles of tourism that protect the environment and ensure that local communities benefit from tourism while respecting their culture and beliefs. To ensure that we achieve this, we have extensively trained all our local staff to understand, appreciate, and respect the local communities and places we visit.
IMPORTANT: The list given here is a suggested packing list, based on the experience of our guides and staff, and passengers that enjoyed the 4 Day hike to Salkantay and Machu Picchu. Feel free to pack what you think you need to be comfortable along the hike.
January 10, 2024 · Apple Travel Peru
It was my best experience with Apple Travel. I had incredible excellent service. The team is very attentive and friendly.
Read moreOctober 21, 2022 · Apple Travel Peru
Incredible service and experience in Inca Trail 4 days travel. Everything was top of the notch. Thanks Ivanoe, my guide.
Read moreOctober 19, 2022 · Apple Travel Peru
The 2 day Inca Trail to Machu Picchu was everything I expected and more. Gorgeous from beginning to end. The tour guides were great and very knowledgeable.
Read moreOctober 11, 2022 · Apple Travel Peru
It was a great experience with all the team Apple Travel. I enjoyed my whole trip. Thanks a lot for being part of my vacation in Cusco.
Read moreMar 2026 · SAM Travel Peru
A very organized Salkantay experience with caring guides, strong support at altitude, and memorable food after long hiking days.
Read moreMar 2026 · SAM Travel Peru
The guide and chef made the trek feel safe, enjoyable, and personal, even when altitude made the journey challenging.
Read moreMar 2026 · SAM Travel Peru
A difficult hike became possible thanks to a patient guide who encouraged the group and helped through the hardest sections.
Read moreMar 2026 · SAM Travel Peru
The guide adapted the pace and itinerary well, combining knowledge, courtesy, and flexibility throughout the tour.
Read moreJan 29, 2026 · SAM Travel Peru
A smooth multi-day trip with patient guiding, careful logistics, clean transport, and thoughtful help at every site.
Read moreJan 29, 2026 · SAM Travel Peru
The experience exceeded expectations with a local guide whose knowledge and enthusiasm made the journey feel meaningful.
Read moreOct 29, 2025 · SAM Travel Peru
The guide brought history and culture to life while keeping the group comfortable and helping capture great memories.
Read moreFeb 29, 2026 · SAM Travel Peru
The team handled planning easily and adjusted the route around weather and walking ability without losing key highlights.
Read moreApril 21, 2024 · SAM Travel Peru
Expert guides, strong porters, and memorable meals helped turn a demanding trail into a remarkable group experience.
Read moreApril 18, 2024 · SAM Travel Peru
The guides kept the schedule smooth and attentive, making the first visit to Machu Picchu easy to recommend.
Read moreApril 9, 2024 · SAM Travel Peru
The guide, cook, and porter team brought great energy, answered questions, and even helped celebrate a birthday.
Read moreApril 17, 2024 · SAM Travel Peru
The guide respected a slower pace, shared useful knowledge, and made the route feel supportive and enjoyable.
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