Challenge
Regional, Cusco, Cusco, Peru
The Machu Picchu Trek via the Salkantay Trail is an unforgettable multi-day journey through the heart of the Peruvian Andes, blending rugged adventure with breathtaking scenery. This 45-mile trek takes you from high-altitude landscapes dominated by snow-capped peaks to lush cloud forests teeming with wildlife. Along the way, you’ll witness the turquoise waters of Humantay Lake, conquer the Salkantay Pass (15,255 ft) with its sweeping mountain views, and explore the Llactapata Ruins, offering a rare glimpse of Machu Picchu from afar. The final descent into Aguas Calientes sets the stage for your grand arrival at the legendary Lost City of the Incas.
Quick facts
A driver takes you from Cusco to Mollepata.
You walk from Soraypampa to Humantay Lake.
You walk from Humantay Lake to Abra Salkantay (Salkantay Pass).
You walk from Abra Salkantay (Salkantay Pass) to La Playa.
You walk from La Playa to Aobamba.
You walk from Aobamba to Hidroelectrica.
You walk from Hidroelectrica to Aguas Calientes.
A driver takes you from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu.
Cusco
Cusco Region, Peru
Mollepata
Cusco Region, Peru
Soraypampa
Cusco Region, Peru
Humantay Lake
Cusco Region, Peru
Abra Salkantay (Salkantay Pass)
Cusco Region, Peru
La Playa
Cusco Region, Peru
Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu covers 45 miles in total.
The best season for Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu is Summer, Spring, Fall.
Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu has 27 checkpoints to log on the way to finishing it.
Plan the trek
The high pass, the valleys and the planning read for the classic alternative route to Machu Picchu.