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The Cusco City Tour + Salkantay 3-Day Trek is a combination designed for those who wish to understand the essence of the ancient Inca Empire while experiencing a true trekking adventure in the Andes. It’s not just about visiting places, but about connecting history, landscape, and culture in a single journey. First, you’ll discover the imperial city, with its architectural heritage and vibrant energy; then, you’ll venture onto mountain trails where the silence, the pure air, and the imposing snow-capped peaks set the rhythm of every step.
This program is ideal for travelers seeking a compact yet intense experience in Cusco. In just a few days, you’ll achieve a balance between cultural heritage and natural adventure, something many consider the best way to experience the destination. The 3-day Salkantay Trek offers spectacular panoramic views and direct contact with the mountain range, while the Cusco City Tour provides the necessary historical context to understand why this region remains one of the most breathtaking places in South America.
ITINERARY
Day 1: City Tour Cusco
📅 Detailed Itinerary
Day 1: Cusco City Tour (Living History and Viewpoints of the Inca Capital)
- Pick-up and briefing in Cusco
Your experience begins in the city of Cusco with a short talk to organize your schedule, entrance fees, and altitude recommendations. It’s an ideal way to acclimatize and understand the context of the trip before the 3-day Salkantay Trek.
- Qorikancha (Temple of the Sun)
Visit Qorikancha, one of the most symbolic sites of the Inca world. Then, a walking tour through traditional streets will show you the more local side of tourism in Cusco: plazas, urban viewpoints, and colonial architecture built upon Inca foundations.
- Sacsayhuaman
Monumental Engineering overlooking Cusco
The tour continues to Sacsayhuaman, a ceremonial fortress famous for its gigantic walls and panoramic views of the city.
- Qenqo, Puka Pukara, and Tambomachay (nearby archaeological route)
This short circuit encompasses three distinct sites:
- Qenqo, associated with canals, carved rock, and ceremonial sites.
- Puka Pukara, a strategic control point and rest stop.
- Tambomachay, known for its springs and water management.
- Return to Cusco and preparation for the Salkantay Trek
Upon returning, a light dinner and plenty of water are recommended, as well as packing your backpack for the trek. The night before makes a significant difference to your performance the following day.
Day 2: Cusco – Mollepata – Soraypampa – Humantay Lagoon
Day 2: Cusco – Mollepata – Soraypampa – Humantay Lagoon
You’ll depart very early from Cusco towards the starting point of the trek. Along the way, you’ll usually stop in Mollepata for breakfast and final preparations. Once in Soraypampa, the landscape changes: a high Andean valley, crisp air, and towering mountains. Today’s hike takes you to Humantay Lagoon, one of the most sought-after spots on the 3-day Salkantay Trek, renowned for its turquoise waters and the glacier that feeds it.
- Early departure from Cusco + transfer to Mollepata/Soraypampa.
- Hike to Humantay Lagoon (challenging climb, steady pace).
- Time for photos and rest, then return to Soraypampa.
- Dinner and overnight stay at a campsite or lodge (depending on category).
Day 3: Soraypampa – Salkantay Pass
Day 3: Soraypampa – Salkantay Pass – Descent to the Cloud Forest (Epic End of the Trek)
This is the most challenging day and the one that defines the experience. We ascend to Salkantay Pass, the highest point of the route. The view of the snow-capped peak and the valley below is usually the most breathtaking moment of the trek. Then comes a long descent where the change in ecosystem is noticeable: less cold, more vegetation, and a different atmosphere than in the morning. It’s a day for concentration, a good pace, and short breaks to catch your breath.
- Departure very early to take advantage of the weather.
- Ascent to Salkantay Pass with strategic stops.
- Descent to a temperate zone (transition to high jungle).
- Dinner and overnight stay at a campsite or lodge.
Day 4: Hydroelectric Plant – Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu – Return to Cusco
Day 4: Hydroelectric Plant – Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu – Return to Cusco
The final day focuses on your arrival at Machu Picchu. Many tours connect with the Hydroelectric Plant, and from there you hike to Aguas Calientes, an easy route with cloud forest scenery. Very early in the morning, you’ll ascend to Machu Picchu for a guided tour (circuit subject to availability). After the tour, you’ll return to Aguas Calientes and take the train back to Cusco (combined with road transport to the city).
- Transfer to the Hydroelectric Plant (depending on your overnight stay).
- Hike to Aguas Calientes (scenic route).
- Guided tour of Machu Picchu + time for photos.
- Return to Cusco (train + transport, depending on the service).
INCLUDES
✅ INCLUDES
🚐 Transportation and Logistics
- Tourist transportation Cusco – Mollepata – Soraypampa (start of the trek).
- Tourist transportation for the entire trek.
👨🏫 Professional Team
- Official guide specializing in high-altitude trekking.
- Support staff (depending on group size).
- Ongoing assistance throughout the tour.
- Basic first-aid kit.
DOES NOT INCLUDE
❌ DOES NOT INCLUDE
🎟️ Tickets
- Cusco Tourist Ticket (for the archaeological sites on the City Tour).
- Entrance to Humantay Lagoon (municipal fee).
🏕️ Personal Equipment
- Sleeping bag (can be rented).
- Trekking poles (optional).
- Personal mountain clothing and equipment.
🍽️ Meals not mentioned
- Dinner on the first day in Cusco.
- Breakfast on the first day.
- Last meal after the return trip.
💼 Additional Expenses
- Tips for the guide, cook, and muleteers.
- Travel insurance.
- Personal expenses.
- Extra snacks or drinks.
RECOMMENDATIONS
💡RECOMMENDATIONS
- Acclimatization in Cusco
Cusco is located at over 3,300 meters above sea level, so it’s recommended to arrive at least one day before the tour. Rest, stay well hydrated, and avoid heavy meals or alcohol on the first day.
- What to Pack
Pack a light and functional backpack. You don’t need large luggage for the Salkantay Trek. The essentials:
- Waterproof jacket or rain poncho.
- Comfortable and breathable clothing.
- Shoes with good traction.
- Sunscreen and sunglasses.
- Insect repellent for the cloud forest area.
- Reusable water bottle.
- Original ID (national ID or passport).
- Prepare for Climate Changes
During the trek, you’ll experience the cold Andean climate. It’s best to dress in layers to easily adapt to temperature changes.
- Physical Condition
You don’t need to be an athlete, but you should be willing to walk and participate in adventure activities. It’s important to be comfortable with hiking and constant movement.
FAQ´S
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
- Do I need prior experience for the 3-day Salkantay Trek?
No technical experience is required, but a moderate level of fitness is necessary. Previous hiking experience is recommended.
- What is the maximum altitude of the tour?
The Salkantay Pass reaches over 4,600 meters above sea level, so it is recommended to acclimatize for at least one day in Cusco before starting the trek.
- Can the tour be done during the rainy season?
Yes, although frequent rain is possible between November and March. Appropriate waterproof gear is recommended.
- Does the City Tour include all entrance fees?
No, the Cusco Tourist Ticket (Boleto Turístico de Cusco) must be purchased separately.
- Does this tour include Machu Picchu?
This program combines high-altitude adventure with city exploration. Machu Picchu can be added to an extended package.
