Salkantay trek and Machu Picchu 3-Day tour with Sky Lodge Dome

Your adventure begins early in the morning with hotel pickup between 4:30 a.m. and 5:00 a.m., followed by a scenic drive through the Andean highlands to Mollepata, where we stop for breakfast. We then continue to Soraypampa, located at the base of the impressive Salkantay range.

Upon arrival, you’ll prepare for the hike while our team finalizes the arrangements. The trail ascends gradually toward the breathtaking Humantay Lake, one of the most iconic natural highlights of the Andes. Along the way, enjoy sweeping mountain views and the dramatic presence of surrounding snowcapped peaks.

After spending time at the lake, we descend back to Soraypampa, where lunch is served at our exclusive Sky Lodge Domes, offering a comfortable setting with panoramic views of the mountains. The afternoon is yours to relax, explore the area, or simply take in the high-Andean scenery.

As evening approaches, settle into your Sky Lodge Dome, designed for comfort and warmth at high altitude. Enjoy dinner and a peaceful night beneath a sky full of stars, surrounded by glaciers and towering peaks. Overnight at the Sky Lodge Domes in Soraypampa (3,800 m / 11,750 ft), the highest and coldest campsite of the journey, for a truly unforgettable mountain experience.

• Total distance: 6 km (round trip)
• Estimated hiking time: 3–4 hours
• Maximum altitude: 4,200 m (13,780 ft)
• Overnight altitude: 3,800 m (11,750 ft)

After enjoying an early breakfast at camp, we begin our hike around 6:00 a.m., setting out on the most challenging and rewarding day of the trek. The trail ascends steadily for approximately four hours toward the highest point of the route, the impressive Salkantay Pass (4,650 m / 15,200 ft).

The pass is dramatically positioned between two massive snowcapped peaks: Salkantay to the right and Tucarhuay to the left. From the summit, take in breathtaking panoramic views of glaciers, rugged mountain terrain, and wide open skies. Weather conditions can vary, and there is a possibility of snow at this altitude, adding to the raw beauty of the landscape. After a well-earned rest and group photos at the pass, we begin our descent along the same trail back to Soraypampa.

Upon return, lunch is served and time is given to relax and recover after the morning’s hike. In the afternoon, we depart by vehicle toward the Sacred Valley, traveling to Ollantaytambo, where we board the scenic train to Aguas Calientes. Upon arrival, you’ll check in to your hotel and enjoy a restful overnight stay, preparing for the final highlight of the journey.

• Total distance: 11 km (6.8 miles)
• Estimated walking time: 5–6 hours
• Maximum altitude: 4,650 m (15,200 ft)
• Difficulty level: Moderate to challenging
• Terrain: Gradual and steep ascents followed by a high-altitude descent
• Highlights: Crossing the iconic Salkantay Pass with panoramic views of surrounding glaciers
• Climate: Cold and windy conditions possible; snow may occur at the pass

Early in the morning, after breakfast at your hotel in Aguas Calientes, you’ll take a shuttle bus up to the entrance of Machu Picchu. At the main gate, your original physical passport will be verified together with your Machu Picchu entrance ticket, so be sure to have it with you.

As you enter the citadel, witness one of the most magical moments of the day: the soft morning light illuminating the stone walls while lingering clouds gradually unveil the site. Your guide will begin with an introduction to the Inca Empire, providing historical and cultural context before leading you through the most important sectors of the citadel.

During the guided tour, you’ll explore key areas such as the ceremonial zones, agricultural terraces, royal quarters, and other significant structures that reveal the ingenuity of Inca architecture and engineering. After the guided visit, you’ll have free time to enjoy the views, take photographs, and absorb the atmosphere of this extraordinary place.

If you have reserved an additional hike—such as Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain—your guide will direct you to the appropriate starting point.

Once you have completed your visit, you’ll descend back to Aguas Calientes, where you’ll have free time to enjoy lunch or explore the town at your own pace. In the afternoon, board the scenic train to Ollantaytambo, where our representative will meet you and transfer you by vehicle back to your accommodation in Cusco, marking the end of an unforgettable journey through the Andes.

• Total distance: 4 km (2.5 miles)
• Estimated walking time: 1–2 hours
• Maximum altitude: 2,700 m (8,858 ft)