Salkantay Trek Challenge – 3 Days / 2 Nights in Cusco, Peru
Cusco, Peru

Salkantay Trek Challenge – 3 Days / 2 Nights

Outty Ranking 75 5.0 · 129 traveler reviews72 hoursFrom $680
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Outty Ranking

75/100

Strongly Recommended. Our proprietary evaluation. How we score

Traveler rating

5.0/5

Based on 129 traveler reviews. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.

Quick answer

Is Salkantay Trek Challenge – 3 Days / 2 Nights worth booking?

Salkantay Trek Challenge – 3 Days / 2 Nights is a 72-hour experience in Cusco, Peru, from $680 per person. It scores 75 out of 100 on the Outty Ranking, which we label “Strongly Recommended”, based on a 5/5 rating across 129 reviews. This booking is non-refundable, so pick your date carefully. Same-day spots are currently showing.

Outty Ranking
75 / 100
Rating
5/5 (129)
Duration
72 hours
From
$680 per person

The Outty verdict

It ranks #7 of the 7 similar experiences we compared in Cusco, with an Outty Ranking of 75. At $680 it sits above the typical similar option ($43), so book it for what is included rather than price. Best for families and couples.

Prices and availability checked

The Salkantay Trek Challenge covers 49 km (31 miles) to Machu Picchu in just 3 days, offering the highlights of the classic route in a shorter timeframe. Hike past the impressive Salkantay Mountain, cross rugged Andean highlands, and descend into lush cloud forest valleys. Enjoy comfortable nights at exclusive Andean huts and in Aguas Calientes before reaching the legendary Lost City of the Incas. • 3-day trek along the Salkantay Trail, the best alternative to the Inca Trail • Epic photo opportunities at the Salkantay Glacier Mountain • Trek from high-altitude Andes to cloud forest landscapes in just two days • Stay at exclusive campsites in small groups • Guided visit to Machu Picchu with a professional guide

What you get

    About this experience

    The Salkantay Trek Challenge covers 49 km (31 miles) to Machu Picchu in just 3 days, offering the highlights of the classic route in a shorter timeframe. Hike past the impressive Salkantay Mountain, cross rugged Andean highlands, and descend into lush cloud forest valleys. Enjoy comfortable nights at exclusive Andean huts and in Aguas Calientes before reaching the legendary Lost City of the Incas. • 3-day trek along the Salkantay Trail, the best alternative to the Inca Trail • Epic photo opportunities at the Salkantay Glacier Mountain • Trek from high-altitude Andes to cloud forest landscapes in just two days • Stay at exclusive campsites in small groups • Guided visit to Machu Picchu with a professional guide

    What's included

    Included

    • Pre-departure briefing
    • Hotel pickup and drop-off
    • Experienced Mountain Guide
    • Lunch
    • Tourist Class Train Aguas Calientes - Ollantaytambo (The voyager or Expedition)
    • Dinner
    • Backpack cover
    • Breakfast
    • Experienced cooks, horsemen and porters
    • Entrance to Machu Picchu (Circuit 2 for 5-month bookings; if unavailable, Circuit 3, then Circuit 1)
    • Water, Tea Time, and snacks on the trail
    • Private Camping Facilities & Equipment (dining room, kitchen, tables, and chairs)
    • Trekking Poles and warm blankets
    • Duffle bag for up to 5 kg/11 lb of your personal gear (carried by the horses)
    • One way bus Aguas Calientes - Machu Picchu
    • All Private Transport and transfers during the tour
    • Safety: First aid kit, oxygen supply, walkie talkies, and emergency satellite pones
    • All entrance fees to Salkantay Trek
    • Accommodations (1 night at Mountain Sky View, 1 night at a Hotel)

    Not included

    • Optional train transfer Hidroelectrica – Aguas Calientes (paid directly to the train operator)
    • Optional return bus Machu Picchu – Aguas Calientes (paid directly to the bus operator, on site)
    • Personal Hiking Clothing and gear
    • Lunch and Dinner on the last day
    • Travel Insurance (Recommended)
    • Tips for the staff (Optional)

    Where it starts and ends

    Hotel pickup

    Pickup is included for all travelers. Pickup begins about 30 minutes before departure.

    Options you can book

    • Salkantay Trek Challenge 3 days

      Pickup included

    • With Huchuy Picchu Mountain

      Huchuy Picchu Mountain Tickets Pickup included

    • With Machu Picchu Mountain

      Machu Picchu Mountain Ticket Pickup included

    • With Huayna Picchu Mountain

      Huayna Picchu Mountain Tickets Pickup included

    Before you book

    Cancellation
    All sales are final. No refund is available for cancellations.
    Languages
    en, es
    Ticket
    Mobile Only
    Runs on
    Every day
    Group size
    Up to 10 travelers per booking
    Operated by
    Salkantay Trekking

    Know before you go

    • Service animals allowed
    • Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
    • Not recommended for pregnant travelers
    • Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
    • Travelers should have a high level of physical fitness
    • It's recommended to arrive in Cusco at least 2 days before the trek to adjust to the altitude.
    • Machu Picchu permits are limited and can sell out several months in advance. We recommend booking at least 5 months ahead for travel between May and August
    • Passport name, number, expiry and country is required at time of booking for all participants
    • Please ensure your passport is up to date and ready for use on your travel day
    • Solo travelers are welcome and can join shared groups. No minimum participants required. Most departures are guaranteed.
    • Keep in mind this hike is a challenging trek. travellers have to be in good health and physical shape to fully enjoy every moment of this adventure.
    • Vegetarian or, vegan options are available, please advise at time of booking if required

    Photos

    Salkantay Trek Challenge – 3 Days / 2 Nights in Cusco, photo 2Salkantay Trek Challenge – 3 Days / 2 Nights in Cusco, photo 3Salkantay Trek Challenge – 3 Days / 2 Nights in Cusco, photo 4Salkantay Trek Challenge – 3 Days / 2 Nights in Cusco, photo 5Salkantay Trek Challenge – 3 Days / 2 Nights in Cusco, photo 6Salkantay Trek Challenge – 3 Days / 2 Nights in Cusco, photo 7

    What travelers are saying

    Outty’s summary of the themes that recur across 129 traveler reviews. Written by us, not quoted from reviewers.

    The guide

    10 mentions

    Travelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works.

    Knowledge and storytelling

    6 mentions

    Reviewers describe the commentary as informative rather than scripted.

    Photo opportunities

    5 mentions

    The views and photo stops come up again and again.

    Food and drink

    4 mentions

    The tastings and food stops are a highlight for most reviewers.

    Physical effort

    3 mentions

    Expect real walking or climbing: reviewers mention the effort involved.

    Value for money

    2 mentions

    Travelers feel they got more than they paid for.

    Traveler reviews

    129 verified traveler reviews for Salkantay Trek Challenge – 3 Days / 2 Nights. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.

    5 star
    126
    4 star
    3
    3 star
    0
    2 star
    0
    1 star
    0
    Sort
    I2042OVmatthewc · October 2026

    The most rewarding experience of my life

    Everything from the guidance to the food was amazing. The tour guide Nestor was always making sure the group was ok and stayed together the best we could.

    via Tripadvisor

    184jesseniab · October 2026

    BEST EXPERIENCE

    Hardest but BEST experience of my life. The views were surreal. My guide Nestor was amazing. He was very patient, informative and great vibes. I always wanted to see Machu Picchu but the trek added a whole new experience that made it so magical. 100% recommend to anyone who wants to experience Machu Picchu in a different more immersive way. I’ve traveled many countries and this is by far my favorite experience.

    via Tripadvisor

    kimel2024 · October 2026

    Salkantay Challenge grind

    The trip was great! Experienced the mountains,the jungle,the epic views,the history and culture all in one trip! Our guide Marco was great,energetic and motivating ! Very knowledgeable as well!

    via Tripadvisor

    S5172OUhaleyw · October 2026

    Salkantay challenge

    This trip was such a highlight, memories I will cherish for a lifetime. It’s certainly a challenge, but the reward is worth it. The guide we had was fantastic - Marco.

    via Tripadvisor

    X9138KCjordanh · September 2026

    Great experience

    Great experience, great communication before the trek started, our guide Saul was fantastic, very knowledgeable, helpful and funny. The activities were fun and finishing at Machu Picchu was perfect

    via Tripadvisor

    Good to know

    Duration
    72 hours
    Free cancellation
    Non-refundable
    Minimum age to book
    All ages
    Availability
    Bookable today
    Runs on
    Every day
    Price range
    $680 to $850
    Hotel pickup
    Included for all travelers
    Booked in 30 days
    45
    Verdict
    Strongly Recommended

    Why this scores 75

    The Outty Ranking is a weighted composite. Here is how this experience performed on each component.

    Traveler sentiment (30% weight)99
    Review evidence (18% weight)79
    Booking momentum (14% weight)75
    Value for money (12% weight)56
    Listing quality (10% weight)84
    Local standing (8% weight)67
    Booking flexibility (8% weight)0

    Salkantay Trek Challenge – 3 Days / 2 Nights: questions travelers ask

    Practical detail on this experience, plus the wider planning questions for Cusco.

    How does Salkantay Trek Challenge – 3 Days / 2 Nights compare to similar tours in Cusco?

    +

    It ranks #7 of the 7 similar experiences we compared in Cusco, with an Outty Ranking of 75. At $680 it sits above the typical similar option ($43), so book it for what is included rather than price. Best for families and couples.

    Who is Salkantay Trek Challenge – 3 Days / 2 Nights best for?

    +

    It suits families and couples best, based on its 72-hour length, all-ages access and non-refundable terms.

    Is Salkantay Trek Challenge – 3 Days / 2 Nights good value?

    +

    It is a premium pick. It starts at $680, above the $43 typical for similar experiences in Cusco.

    How much does Salkantay Trek Challenge – 3 Days / 2 Nights cost?

    +

    Prices start at $680 per person. The final price depends on the date, the time slot and the number of travelers, and peak weekends in Cusco usually price higher than midweek mornings. Live pricing and remaining availability are confirmed on the booking screen before you pay.

    How long does Salkantay Trek Challenge – 3 Days / 2 Nights take?

    +

    Plan for about 72 hours from start to finish, not counting travel to the meeting point. Most travelers leave another 30 minutes on either side so the rest of the day in Cusco is not rushed.

    Is Salkantay Trek Challenge – 3 Days / 2 Nights worth it?

    +

    It holds an Outty Ranking of 75 out of 100, which we label "Strongly Recommended". That score blends traveler sentiment (5/5 across 129 reviews), the depth of that review evidence, recent booking momentum, value for money against comparable outdoors in Cusco, and how flexible the cancellation terms are.

    Can I cancel or reschedule Salkantay Trek Challenge – 3 Days / 2 Nights?

    +

    No. This experience is sold on a non-refundable basis, so only book a date you are confident about. Similar experiences in the city do offer free cancellation if flexibility matters more than price.

    Is Salkantay Trek Challenge – 3 Days / 2 Nights suitable for kids and families?

    +

    Yes, all ages are welcome. Families should still weigh the 72-hour running time, and strollers are easier on the earlier, quieter departures.

    How far in advance should I book Salkantay Trek Challenge – 3 Days / 2 Nights?

    +

    Around 45 people booked this in the last 30 days, so popular slots go early. Two to three weeks ahead is comfortable in shoulder season, while summer weekends and holidays in Cusco can sell out a month out. Same-day spots do open up when other travelers cancel, so it is worth checking if you are already in town.

    What should I bring or wear?

    +

    Bring photo ID, your booking confirmation on your phone, a refillable water bottle and comfortable shoes. Dress for the weather in Cusco and add a light layer if any part of the 72-hour experience runs outdoors or after sunset.

    Where does Salkantay Trek Challenge – 3 Days / 2 Nights start and how do I get there?

    +

    The exact meeting point and directions are on your voucher once you book, and they sit in central Cusco within reach of public transport. Arrive 15 minutes early: late arrivals are treated as no-shows by most operators.

    What are the best things to do in Cusco?

    +

    On Outty we rank every Cusco experience on the same 0 to 100 scale, and alongside this one the highest scorers right now include Sacred Valley Full Day Tour, Full-Day Humantay Lake Trek (Meals Included), Full-Day Rainbow Mountain Trek (Meals Included). The city page groups everything into most popular, highest reviewed, last minute and family-friendly so you can build a day around what actually delivers.

    When is the best time to visit Cusco?

    +

    Booking patterns follow the same curve: prices and queues climb in peak weeks, while shoulder season gives you better availability on the top-ranked experiences and more room to change plans.

    How many days do you need in Cusco?

    +

    Three full days covers the headline sights without sprinting. A workable rhythm is one anchor experience each morning, such as this one, an unhurried afternoon in a single neighborhood, then a food or nightlife booking in the evening. Five days lets you add a day trip outside the city.

    Do I book through Outty or through the operator?

    +

    Outty ranks and explains the experiences, then hands you to Viator to complete the booking with the operator directly. The price is the same as booking on Viator yourself, and Outty earns an affiliate commission on the referral, which is how the rankings stay free to read.

    What is included in Salkantay Trek Challenge – 3 Days / 2 Nights?

    +

    Included: Pre-departure briefing; Hotel pickup and drop-off; Experienced Mountain Guide; Lunch; and Tourist Class Train Aguas Calientes - Ollantaytambo (The voyager or Expedition). Not included: Optional train transfer Hidroelectrica – Aguas Calientes (paid directly to the train opera; Optional return bus Machu Picchu – Aguas Calientes (paid directly to the bus operator, on; Personal Hiking Clothing and gear; and Lunch and Dinner on the last day. Always check the voucher for the final list before you travel.

    Does Salkantay Trek Challenge – 3 Days / 2 Nights include hotel pickup?

    +

    Yes, pickup is offered for every traveler from 1 listed pickup location in and around Cusco. Be ready about 30 minutes before the start time. You can also enter a custom pickup address when booking.

    What languages is Salkantay Trek Challenge – 3 Days / 2 Nights offered in?

    +

    It is offered in English and Spanish. Pick your language when choosing a date and time, as not every departure runs in every language.

    Will I get instant confirmation and a mobile ticket for Salkantay Trek Challenge – 3 Days / 2 Nights?

    +

    Confirmation is sent by the operator after booking, usually within 48 hours; if it is not confirmed you are not charged. Mobile tickets are accepted, so you can show the voucher on your phone.

    Is Salkantay Trek Challenge – 3 Days / 2 Nights wheelchair or stroller accessible?

    +

    The operator notes: Not recommended for pregnant travelers. If accessibility is critical, contact the operator after booking to confirm arrangements for your date.

    What happens to Salkantay Trek Challenge – 3 Days / 2 Nights if the weather is bad?

    +

    This experience depends on good weather. If it is canceled because of poor weather, you are offered a different date or a full refund.

    What do travelers say about Salkantay Trek Challenge – 3 Days / 2 Nights?

    +

    Across 129 reviews averaging 5.0 out of 5, recurring themes include the guide, knowledge and storytelling, photo opportunities. Travelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works. One thing to know: Expect real walking or climbing: reviewers mention the effort involved.

    What booking options are available for Salkantay Trek Challenge – 3 Days / 2 Nights?

    +

    There are 4 options to choose from, including Salkantay Trek Challenge 3 days, With Huchuy Picchu Mountain, With Machu Picchu Mountain, With Huayna Picchu Mountain. Prices and start times differ by option, so compare them on the booking screen.

    Ready to lock in your spot?

    Pick a date, choose your group, and see the exact price for Salkantay Trek Challenge – 3 Days / 2 Nights.

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