What to Expect on Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu?
Quick answer: On the Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu you can expect a 4-day journey from Cusco via Mollepata and the turquoise Humantay Lake, over the 4,580-metre Apacheta pass, down into cloud forest full of butterflies and hummingbirds, and on to Aguas Calientes and Machu Picchu. It is challenging at altitude but hugely rewarding.
If you are planning a trip to Peru, you almost certainly want to see Machu Picchu, one of the seven wonders of the world and the highlight of most visits to the country. There are several ways to get there, and the Salkantay Trek is especially popular thanks to its lower prices and the availability of last-minute bookings.
The route also passes some beautiful spots along the way, including the eye-catching Humantay Lake. Here is what to expect on the Salkantay Trek 4 Days to Machu Picchu.
Salkantay Trek Overview
| Stage | Highlights |
|---|---|
| Cusco – Mollepata | 3-hour drive, breakfast in Mollepata |
| Humantay Lake | Blue lagoon at 4,200 m |
| Soraypampa – Chaullay | Apacheta pass (4,580 m), lunch at Huayracmachay, steep descent |
| Chaullay – Lucmabamba | Cloud forest, butterflies, hummingbirds, coffee plantation, hot springs |
| Lucmabamba – Aguas Calientes | Llactapata ruins and first views of Machu Picchu |
Day 1: From Cusco to Mollepata
On the first day you travel from Cusco to Mollepata and on to Humantay Lake. It is a 3-hour drive from Cusco to Mollepata, where you stop for a hearty breakfast.
At first you might feel some motion sickness on the winding roads, but things soon settle down as you adjust to the environment.
Humantay Lake
Next comes the splendid Humantay Lake, a bewitching blue lagoon at an altitude of 4,200 metres. It is every bit as alluring as the photos suggest, and the colours are simply stunning.
Be prepared for the altitude: sleeping this high up is not easy at all.
Soraypampa to Chaullay: The Hardest Part of the Salkantay Trek
This is likely the most difficult section of the entire trek. The altitude of 4,580 metres at the Apacheta pass, the highest point of the route, will literally take your breath away, and the steep slopes add to the challenge. But then, would a trek be worth it without some thrill and challenge?
The view from the pass makes the effort worthwhile: calming white snow and a turquoise lake complete a serene panorama. Lunch is usually at Huayracmachay, and the steep descent towards Chaullay is a challenge of its own.
Chaullay to Lucmabamba: Butterflies and Hummingbirds
The Chaullay to Lucmabamba section is accompanied by butterflies and hummingbirds. The lush green forest, birds and fruit trees will keep you captivated the whole way.
At Lucmabamba you will find a coffee plantation, and hot springs about a 30-minute drive away are the perfect place to relax tired legs.
Lucmabamba to Aguas Calientes
The Llactapata ruins are fascinating and not heavily crowded. You can skip them if you wish, but visiting lets you discover every detail this trek has to offer. From here you also get a view of Machu Picchu, the goal that has kept you excited throughout the trek.
Visiting Machu Picchu
You need to start early to reach Machu Picchu. Don’t forget essentials such as water, a torch and your tickets.
Buying your ticket in advance is very important. At the time of writing, 2,500 people were allowed into the ruins in the morning slot (6 am to 12 pm) and 3,000 in the second slot (12 pm to 5:30 pm).
Frequently Asked Questions
How long is the Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu?
The classic version described here is the Salkantay Trek 4 Days, starting from Cusco and ending at Machu Picchu via Aguas Calientes.
What is the highest point of the Salkantay Trek?
The Apacheta pass at 4,580 metres, reached on the Soraypampa to Chaullay section, the hardest part of the trek.
Do I need to buy Machu Picchu tickets in advance?
Yes. Entry is limited per time slot, so book your ticket beforehand.
What should I bring for the final day?
Start early and carry water, a torch and your tickets.
Final Words
So, what to expect on the Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu? An exhilarating experience with snow-capped mountains, turquoise lakes and lush green forest alive with butterflies and hummingbirds. The adrenaline stays high throughout, and the beautiful ruins of Machu Picchu await you at the end.
