4-Day Salkantay Trek & Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu | Sky Lodge Domes Experience

Your adventure begins early in the morning with pick-up from your hotel in Cusco, followed by a scenic drive through picturesque Andean landscapes toward the village of Mollepata. Along the way, you will enjoy views of traditional farming communities, valleys, and snow-capped mountains.

After breakfast in Mollepata, transportation continues to Soraypampa, the starting point of the hike and your first campsite, located at the base of the majestic Salkantay Mountain.

From Soraypampa, you will begin a gradual uphill hike to the breathtaking Humantay Lake, one of the most stunning glacial lakes in the Peruvian Andes. The trail leads through scenic alpine terrain, offering spectacular views of surrounding peaks and valleys. Upon arrival at the lake, you will have time to rest, explore the area, and capture unforgettable photographs of the turquoise waters beneath towering glaciers.

After enjoying the lake, you will descend back to Soraypampa, where a freshly prepared dinner awaits. In the evening, relax and take in the peaceful mountain surroundings before settling in for the night.

• Hiking Distance: 7 km / 4.3 miles (round trip)
• Hiking Time: 3–4 hours approximately
• Difficulty Level: Moderate
• Meals Included: Lunch and Dinner
• Accommodation: Campsite or Glamping Domes in Soraypampa
• Maximum Altitude: 4,200 m / 13,779 ft (Humantay Lake)
• Minimum Altitude: 3,900 m / 12,795 ft (Soraypampa)

After an early breakfast, you will begin the most challenging and rewarding day of the trek. The hike starts with a steady ascent toward the impressive Salkantay Pass, the highest point of the journey.

As you ascend, the landscape becomes increasingly dramatic, with sweeping views of glaciers, rocky ridges, and the towering presence of Salkantay Mountain, one of the most sacred peaks in the Andes. Reaching the pass is a memorable achievement, offering breathtaking panoramic views of snow-capped mountains and vast valleys stretching into the distance.

After spending time at the summit to rest and enjoy the scenery, you will begin the descent toward the trailhead area, where transportation will be waiting.

From here, you will travel by vehicle through scenic Andean valleys toward the historic town of Ollantaytambo, where the tour concludes. This return point makes the itinerary ideal for travelers continuing to the Short Inca Trail or traveling onward to Machu Picchu.

• Hiking Distance: 12–14 km / 7.5–8.7 miles
• Hiking Time: 6–7 hours approximately
• Difficulty Level: Challenging
• Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch
• Maximum Altitude: 4,630 m / 15,190 ft (Salkantay Pass)
• Return Destination: Ollantaytambo
• Estimated Arrival: Late afternoon / early evening

Your adventure begins early in the morning in the historic town of Ollantaytambo, where you will board a scenic train that travels through the breathtaking Sacred Valley alongside the Urubamba River. This beautiful train journey offers spectacular views of lush mountains, river valleys, and cloud forest landscapes.

After approximately one hour, the train stops at Km 104 (Short Inca Trail Trailhead), the official starting point of the Short Inca Trail. Here, you will pass through the control point and begin hiking along the original stone pathways built by the Incas.

The trail gradually ascends through dense cloud forest vegetation, leading to the archaeological site of Chachabamba, an important ceremonial center that once guarded the entrance to Machu Picchu. Continuing along the trail, you will hike toward the spectacular Inca site of Wiñay Wayna, one of the most impressive and beautifully preserved complexes along the route. Here, you will enjoy lunch surrounded by stunning mountain views and ancient terraces.

In the afternoon, the hike continues toward the iconic Sun Gate (Inti Punku), where you will be rewarded with your first panoramic view of Machu Picchu from above—an unforgettable highlight of the journey.

After enjoying the scenery and capturing photos, you will descend toward the citadel and continue by bus to the town of Aguas Calientes, where you will spend the night in comfortable accommodation. In the evening, you will enjoy dinner and receive a briefing from your guide about the visit to Machu Picchu the following day.

• Hiking Distance: 12 km / 7.5 miles
• Hiking Time: Approximately 5–6 hours
• Difficulty Level: Moderate
• Meals Included: Lunch and Dinner
• Accommodation: Hotel in Aguas Calientes
• Maximum Altitude: 2,720 m / 8,924 ft
• Minimum Altitude: 2,040 m / 6,693 ft

On the second day, you will wake up early to take one of the first buses to Machu Picchu, allowing you to experience the ancient citadel in the peaceful morning atmosphere.

Upon arrival, your professional guide will lead a comprehensive guided tour lasting approximately two to three hours. During this visit, you will explore the most significant areas of Machu Picchu, including its temples, terraces, ceremonial spaces, and residential sectors. You will learn about the fascinating history, advanced engineering techniques, and cultural importance of this extraordinary Inca city.

After the guided tour, you will have free time to explore the site independently, take photographs, or simply admire the surrounding landscapes. Travelers who have pre-booked additional permits may choose to hike optional routes such as Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain.

Later in the day, you will return by bus to Aguas Calientes, where you will board the train back to Ollantaytambo. Upon arrival, private transportation will be available to transfer you back to Cusco.

• Walking Distance: Approximately 6 km / 3.7 miles
• Guided Tour Duration: 2–3 hours
• Difficulty Level: Easy to Moderate
• Meals Included: Breakfast
• Return Transportation: Train from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo + transfer to Cusco
• Maximum Altitude: 2,429 m / 7,972 ft
• Minimum Altitude: 2,040 m / 6,693 ft