• Distance: 12 km (7.4 miles) / Hiking time: 5 hours

Early in the morning, our team will pick you up from your hotel between 4:20 a.m. and 4:50 a.m. Afterward, we will drive for approximately 2 hours to the town of Mollepata (2,900 m / 9,514 ft). Here, we will stop for about 20 minutes to enjoy an included breakfast. Please note that you will need to pay the local community entrance fee to Humantay Lake (20 soles, not included) at this stop.

Once we are ready, we will continue our journey to Challacancha (3,600 m / 11,500 ft), which marks the official starting point of our trek. From this point, we will hike for about 3 hours until reaching our base camp in Soraypampa (Sky Lodge Salkantay Okidoki), located at 3,912 m (12,834 ft). Upon arrival, we will have a delicious lunch while enjoying panoramic views of the Humantay lake (4,200 m / 13,779 ft) and Salkantay (6,271 m / 20,575 ft) snow-capped peaks.

After a well-deserved rest, we will begin a 1.5-hour ascent to the stunning Humantay Lagoon. Finally, we will return to the base camp to enjoy afternoon tea time followed by a warm dinner.

 Classic Salkantay Sky Lodge Soraypampa Okidoki Travel

• Distance: 22 km (13.6 miles) / Hiking time: 9 hours

To begin with, this is the most difficult day of the trek. For this reason, we will wake up early at 5:00 a.m. and enjoy breakfast at 5:30 a.m.

Our hike will start officially at 6:00 a.m.

First, we will tackle a challenging 3 to 4-hour ascent to reach the famous Salkantay Pass, located at an impressive 4,630 m (15,190 ft).

Certainly, the panoramic view of the massive glacier from this altitude is breathtaking. In addition, you will have plenty of time to take photos, and our group will participate in a traditional Andean ceremony to thank the mountains (Apus).

Afterward, we will begin our descent towards Huayramachay (3,912 m / 12,834 ft) to enjoy a rewarding lunch.

Finally, we will continue hiking downhill for 3 more hours until arriving at our second campsite in Chaullay, situated at 2,900 m (9,514 ft).

Classic Salkantay Mountain

• Distance: 25 km (15.5 miles) / Hiking time: 7 hours approx.

Our day starts early between 6:00 a.m. and 6:30 a.m. with a nutritious breakfast for the whole group. Afterward, we will begin our hike through the high jungle. This area features a beautiful landscape of rivers and waterfalls. Additionally, you will appreciate the local flora and fauna, including orchids, coffee and coca plantations, fruit trees, bananas, avocados, and passion fruit. Keep an eye out for beautiful birds like hummingbirds, parrots, and the famous cock-of-the-rock.

Eventually, we will arrive at Sahuayaco Beach (2,064 m / 6,771 ft) to enjoy a delicious lunch. Following this, we will take a local transport for about 1.5 hours to the Hidroeléctrica station. Please note that this transportation is NOT included (cost is approximately 40 to 50 soles per person).

Once at Hidroeléctrica, we will start the final 3-hour walk along the train tracks to Aguas Calientes town (also known as Machu Picchu Pueblo, 2,000 m). Upon arrival, we will check into our hostel and enjoy a nice dinner at a local restaurant. After that, we will rest early because the next day is our special visit to Machu Picchu.

Optional Activity: Relaxing in the Hot Springs (Not Included)

Interestingly, there is an option to visit the famous hot springs of Aguas Calientes before dinner. If you wish to relax your muscles, this is the perfect activity. However, please coordinate this with your guide in advance (entrance fee is 20 soles per person).

In conclusion, this day offers a perfect mix of nature, local culture, and relaxation before the grand finale.

• Distance: 5 km (3.1 miles) / Hiking time: 1.5 hours (plus return)

This special day will start very early at 4:30 a.m. The first part of the journey is a flat 30-minute walk, followed by a 1-hour uphill ascent toward Machu Picchu. Consequently, we will arrive at approximately 6:00 a.m. to witness the beautiful sunrise over the citadel. Afterward, you will enjoy a guided exploration of Machu Picchu with our expert guide for about 2 hours.

Following the tour and a short rest, you must leave the archaeological site. You should begin your descent no later than 10:30 a.m. to start the 3-hour hike back toward the Hidroeléctrica station. Once there, we will board our return bus to Cusco.

Please note that this tour includes the return bus from Hidroeléctrica, which departs between 2:00 p.m. and 2:30 p.m. Finally, after a 7-hour drive, we will arrive in Cusco center between 10:00 p.m. and 10:30 p.m. This marks the end of our amazing 4-day Salkantay adventure.

• Distance: 5 km (3.1 miles) / Hiking time: 1.5 hours (plus return)

This special day will start very early at 4:00 a.m. The first part of the journey consists of a flat 30-minute walk, followed by a 1-hour uphill ascent toward Machu Picchu. Consequently, we will arrive at approximately 6:00 a.m. to witness the beautiful sunrise over the citadel. Afterward, you will enjoy a guided exploration of Machu Picchu with our expert guide for about 2 hours.

According to new government regulations, once your guided tour ends, you must exit the archaeological site and head down to Aguas Calientes town. Depending on your physical condition after the trek, you can choose between two options to go down:

• Option 1 (Hike): A scenic 1.5-hour walk downhill to the town of Aguas Calientes.

• Option 2 (Bus): A quick 30-minute bus ride to the town. Please note that the bus ticket costs $12 USD per person (not included).

Once you arrive in the town, you will have free time to enjoy lunch (not included).

After that, you will board the return train to Ollantaytambo station, which takes approximately 1 hour and 40 minutes. Finally, a tourist bus will pick you up at the station and drive you for 1.5 hours back to the center of Cusco. This marks the end of our services with Okidoki Travel Peru.

The Ultimate Classic Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu (4-Day)

Essential Guide for your Classic Salkantay Trek 2026

How difficult is the 4-Day Salkantay Trek?

The Classic Salkantay Trek is considered a challenging hike, reaching a maximum altitude of 4,630 m (15,190 ft) at the famous Salkantay Pass. Although no professional climbing experience is needed, we highly recommend at least 2 days of acclimatization in Cusco to avoid altitude sickness. Consequently, our 4-day itinerary is perfectly designed for hikers with moderate fitness who want a direct, rewarding connection to Machu Picchu.

Best Time to Hike the Salkantay Route

The peak season for the Salkantay Trek 2026 runs from May to September during the dry season. This period offers the clearest views of Humantay Lake and the stunning Salkantay snowy peaks. However, Oki Doki Travel Peru operates this route almost year-round with expert guides and high-quality camping gear to ensure your safety in any season.

What’s Included in the 2026 Edition?

Our classic service is fully optimized so you do not miss the most scenic landscapes of the Peruvian Andes. Unlike other 5-day versions, this 4-day Salkantay trek is ideal for travelers with limited time.

Our service includes:

• Professional bilingual guides (English and Spanish).

• Experienced muleteers and horses to carry the equipment.

• Nutritious and fresh meals during the trek.

• The official entry ticket to the Machu Picchu citadel.