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Salkantay Trek 4 Days Classic

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DetailItineraryPhotosFAQsReviews
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Length

4 Days, 3 Nights
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Group

Min 8, Max 16
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Trip Style

Trekking
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Grading

3,4
Tour Details

Embark on the Salkantay Trek 4 Days Classic, a condensed yet exhilarating journey to Machu Picchu, perfect for adventurers short on time but eager for an unforgettable experience.

Recognised by National Geographic as one of the world’s top 25 treks, this trail offers an unrivaled exploration off the beaten path, presenting the majestic beauty of the Andes in all its glory.

Highlights:

  • World-Class Trekking: Experience the thrill of trekking one of National Geographic’s top 25 treks globally, through breathtaking Andean landscapes.
  • Magnificent Mountain Vistas: Be awed by the snow-capped peaks of Huamantay and Salkantay Mountains, standing tall at 6,271 meters (20,569 feet), offering stunning panoramic views.
  • Humantay Lagoon: Start your adventure with a hike to the enchanting Humantay Lagoon, a vivid turquoise water body set against the backdrop of impressive mountains, showcasing the Andes’ natural beauty.
  • Diverse Ecosystems: Traverse through varied climates, from the rich biodiversity of lush valleys to the rugged high mountain landscapes, each offering a unique trekking experience.
  • Cultural Immersion: Engage in spiritual ceremonies and meditations for a meaningful cultural exchange, deepening your connection to the Andean way of life.
  • First Glimpse of Machu Picchu: Discover the ancient Llactapata Inca site at 2,700 meters (8,856 feet), where you’ll catch your first breathtaking view of Machu Picchu from a distance.

Extra Hikes for an Unforgettable Experience after Machu picchu Tour:

Conquer the Huayna Picchu Mountain or Machu Picchu Mountain for an additional $60.00 USD , offering unique perspectives of the ancient citadel.

  • Huaynapicchu Mountain: If you want to climb this mountain, you must book well in advance. The climb takes two hours there and back.
  • Machu picchu Mountain: if you want to climb You need to book in advance. its the highest mountain around Machu Picchu,for climbing takes 3 hours up and down.

  There are two ways to return from Machu Picchu

Choose how you would like to return to Cusco after visiting Machu Picchu, according to your preferences and budget.

  • by car : US$ 10.00
  • by Train: US$ 70.00
Take a look and think about which options might be best for you.

Return by Bus:

If you decide to take the minibus back to Cusco, you must start walking back from Machu Picchu to the Hidrolectrica station at 11:00 am.

The walking takes three hours, the first part is a 30-40 minute descent and the second 2 hours on flat ground next to the railway tracks.

You must be at Hidroelectrica between 14:00 and 14:30 PM, the minibus ride to Cusco takes approximately seven hours.

Arrival time is around 22:00, the minibus will drop you off in the centre of Cusco.

  1. The price is for each adult, with minibus option : US$ 255.00 
  2. The price is for each Student , with minibus option  : US$ 235.00 

Return by Train:

The train usually leaves at 14:30, 14:55 and 15:20, depending on availability.
To catch the train you will need to take a bus (25 minutes) or walk (1 hour) from Machu Picchu down to Aguas Calientes.
Once at Aguas calientes Town, you can spend some time exploring the town or have lunch, but you must be at the train station 30 minutes before departure.
The train takes 1 hour 45 minutes to Ollantaytambo, from where you will be taken by minibus for 1 hour 40 minutes back to Cusco.
At the end you will be dropped off at the Plaza Regocijo near the main square.

  • Price with Train per Adult in total : $ 315.00
  • Price with Train per Student in total : $295.00

Up-Grade to Vistadome Train. 

If you choose the return train option, it includes the Expedition or Voyager service, both of which offer panoramic windows for scenic views.
For a more immersive experience, you can upgrade to the Vistadome train, which features a glass ceiling and onboard entertainment including traditional dancing and live music, for an additional US$45 per person.
This upgrade is only available for those choosing the return train, and must be added at the time of booking the Salkantay Trek, and cannot be changed at a later date.

 

Inclusions

  • Collection from your hotel: we will pick you up between 04:30 to 05:00 am.
  • Briefing before the trek: briefing the day before the excursion, around 7:00 p.m., led by the guide. Please provide the name of the hotel where you are staying in Cusco.
  • Machu Picchu Tickets: Obtain and secure the entrance fee to Machu Picchu.
  • Machu Picchu guided tour: you will get a comprehensive 2 hours and 30 minutes a guided tour led by one of our expert guides. Designed to enhance your understanding of this historic site, the tour adapts to your ticket's entry time and circuit. after the engaging tour, you will have 30 minutes free time to absorb Machu picchu's beauty before continuing you journey.
  • Experienced and licensed Tour guide. Spanish, English and Quechua speaking guides will accompany you during the excursion, to immerse you in the history, culture and conclude 2 hours and 30 minutes guide tour in Machu picchu.
  • Transportation: Private Tourist bus transfer from your hotel in Cusco to Challacancha, “start of the excursion”, and return to Cusco after completing the hike. We will transfer you to your hotel in Cusco.
  • Expert local chefs: We have experienced cooks trained in adventure and mountain cooking. We use new kitchen equipment and kitchenware, as well as a dining tent with portable chairs and tables.
  • Accomodations: Spend the first night in spacious panoramic cabin for 2 people, and second night in a magical dome for 2 people, and conclude with a warm stay in a cozy hostel in Aguas Calientes. Each place to sleep has comfortable mattresses to have a peaceful sleep. but dont forget to bring or rent a sleeping bag.
  • Meals: Enjoy nutritious meals during the excursion (3 breakfasts, 3 lunches and 3 dinners). The food is balanced to keep you energized along the way, with a free vegetarian option upon request in advance.
  • Duffel Bag: At briefing or meeting one day before the trekking, you will be given a duffle bag in which you can put up to 5 kilos of your belongings. Our team will carry these duffels on horses during the trek, and you can get them at the campsites. This means you can hike comfy with just your daypack. When your trek ends and you return to Cusco, you must return them to our office or leave at hostel.
  • Options to return from Machu Picchu: Whatever mode of transport you choose, we include the return trip. costs by car $10, by Train $70.

Excludes

  • Breakfast on the first morning and lunch on the last day after Machu Picchu
  • Entrance fee to Humantay Lagoon: On the first day of the excursion, you will need to buy an entrance ticket to Humantay Lagoon. from the local government office in Mollepata. which costs 20 soles/ 6 dollars for foreigners and 10 soles/3 dollars for peruvians, it must be pay witht cash in soles once you arrive there.
  • Sleeping bag: If you don't have a sleeping bag, you can rent one from us. The sleeping bags we have are specially designed to keep you warm during the trek, where temperatures can be as low as -10°C. The rental cost is 40 soles (10 dollars) for the whole trip.
  • Trekking poles: if you dont have them, you can rent from us for the rental cost 10 dollars, the trekking poles are very useful on steep and rough ground. which improves your performance during the excursion.
  • Bus tickets up and down in Machu picchu: The buses going up and down are not included, so you can buy a ticket in Aguas Calientes or after Machu Picchu. It costs 12 dollars for each way, but you can also walk for 1 hour and 30 minutes from Aguas Calientes.
  • Internet conection or Signal mobile: you will not get any internet conection or mobile signal from 09:00 am on the first day until you reach the second camp. but at the camp sites you can access Wi-fi for 10 soles. generally, after the third day, may you have cell signal and internet access.
  • Toilets and showers along the way: toilets are free at each camp site, but during the trek locals may charge 1 sol for using theirs, as well 10 soles for hot showers at the second camp site. while cold showers are free at each camp site. you can take a hot shower at the Aguas calientes hostel on the third day for free.
  • Drinking water: we dont provide water for refilling cannteen or bottles, but will provide cold/hot at each meal, but you can buy a long the way for cost between 5 to 12 soles per 2.5 litres or you can take a purification tablets for mountain water.
  • Travel Insurance and things of a personal nature – laundry and telephone calls, personal taxis, souvenirs etc.
  • Huayna Picchu and Machu Picchu Mountain are optional treks within Machu Picchu Citadel which do not include a guide. The climb is usually done on your own after your tour of Machu Picchu Citadel. If you would like the extra hike to be guided, please request in advance. There is an extra cost for this extra guided tour., Tickets for Huayna Picchu or Machu picchu Mountain: cost them 60 dollars each one
  • Tips for our team: You can choose whether or not to tip. The people who work along the trek expect tips in the tourism industry, so our company paid them fairly for the work they did. We want to make it clear that tipping is optional, not mandatory.

Recommended to carry

  • Original passport: you can't use a copy of your passport; you need to make sure your original passport is valid for at least six months to enter and leave Peru. Also, make sure your passport has two blank pages for the stamps when you come in and out.
  • Student ID: This is only required if you have booked the Salkantay Trek as a student. You must have a student card issued by your university (up to the age of 25). It should contain the following details: university information, personal information, a student photo and a valid date no later than 31 December of the year of travel.
  • Good-quality daypack: It's really important to find a good backpack that's comfortable, light and small, to fill in and carry all your belonging
  • Botle water or Camel Bag: The bottle needs to hold 2 litres of water. It is important to choose a water bottle that can keep your water cold.
  • Trekking poles: We really recommend them for the Salkantay Trek and they are very useful. You can rent them from us.
  • Hiking water proof boots (with ankle protectors)
  • Sleeping bag: when you buy a sleeping bag find one that is big enough for you. and put it in a waterproof bag so it doesn't get wet on the hike. also we recommend sleeping bags that can keep you warm down to -10°C. You can also rent sleeping bags from us.
  • Head lamp: This equipment is essential for anyone taking the Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu. You can also bring a torch.
  • Emergency money: Please remember to bring extra money for any emergencies that might happen on the trip. is ideal to bring 300 soles/90 dollars and in cash

Packing List

F.A.Q. ¿What should I pack in my backpack?

If you are travelling to a trekking destination, you should prepare your backpack and duffel bag in advance, especially for the Salkantay Trek. We recommend that you bring one or two large backpacks, depending on the length of your holiday. Carry only what you need for the 5 days of the trek, this means that any extra items or belongings you don’t need can be left at your hotel in Cusco or in our backpack storage room in Cusco.

what to pack in your personal Backpack?

During the days on the trek, Remember, you will be carrying your backpack with you for the entire trek, so you should carry a light, comfortable and good quality backpack. due to regulation issued by the local government, your backpack should not exceed 25 litres in sixe and large bags are not allowed  to be carried inside Machu picchu, if you have one make sure that your largae backpack looks as small as possicle to carry inside Machu picchu.

here, we give you the list of items which you have to carry in your personal backpack. 

Hats and sunglasses: The sun is intense at high altitude and you should protect your eyes from the glare. Wear one that offers UV protection and is comfortable.

Rain gear: The trail can be wet especially in the rainy season. Have quality gear and clothing with materials such as Gore-tex that will keep your skin dry while you perspire during the hike.

Warm clothing: During the Inca Trail, where the temperature fluctuates during the day and night, it is mandatory to have good clothing equipment such as: fleeces, long-sleeved shirts, down jackets and a waterproof layer.

Sunscreen: Choose a good sunscreen (high factor) and apply it before starting the hike and regularly during the day if you are sweating.

Hand sanitizer: Carry a good hand sanitizer to disinfect hands before eating, drinking and after using the bathroom. We recommend carrying a small bottle of hand sanitizer throughout the day.

Headlamp: carrying a headlamp is especially useful for those who hike the Inca Trail because it keeps your hands free for other tasks. It is useful to choose a headlamp for brightness, weight and comfort.

Snacks: bring snacks that are rich in energy and easy to digest. This, because chocolate bars or cookies are not ideal, as they can be heavy for the stomach and leave you with an impression of sluggishness, so we recommend taking granola bars or a mixture of nuts which will give enough energy to perform the walk.

Extra money: take money preferably in soles for drinks, tips and souvenirs: during the excursion you will find facilities or bathrooms where you will have to pay for the use of some of them, especially the first day.

What to pack in your personal Duffel bag?

Peru Travel Company will provide you with a duffel bag to pack your belongings that you don’t need during the day, the porters will carry the duffel bag, and please note that it must have a maximum weight of 7 Kg, including your sleeping bag and your air mattress (if you bring or rent one). The duffel bag will be provided to you one day before the trek at your hotels or our office.
  • Sleeping bag: if you don’t have one, you can rent it from us; also if you want to buy it it has to have the estimated weight of 2 kilos and remember to pack it in a plastic bag to keep it during the excursion, we recommend a -10°C sleeping bag.
  • Rain Gear: The trail can be wet especially in the rainy season. Have quality gear and clothing with materials such as Gore-tex that will keep your skin dry while you perspire during the hike
  • Warm jacket: The weather during the excursion fluctuates and can drop sharply during the day and night, so it is essential to bring layers of clothing for the sun and a waterproof outer layer in case of rain or snow
  • 4 to 5 T-shirts: Absorbent T-shirts that dry quickly are recommended. Synthetic fabrics such as polyester or nylon are the best choice, as they will hold sweat and dry quickly, avoid cotton shirts as they retain moisture and cause chafing and are difficult to dry
  • 2 to 3 trekking pants: there are a variety of types of trekking pants one of them is the cargo pants which have large pockets on the side of the legs and the convertible pants have legs that zipper at the knee, those are ideal especially in hot climates or changing conditions during the trail for women leggings or leggings work perfectly
  • 4 pairs of underwear: wearing a sports bra and compression shorts will be helpful and keep you comfortable to avoid chafing. If you are hiking in cold weather, wear thermal underwear that will keep you warm
  • Snacks: bring snacks that are rich in energy and easy to digest. This, because chocolate bars or cookies are not ideal, as they can be heavy for the stomach and leave you with an impression of sluggishness, so we recommend taking granola bars or a mixture of nuts which will give enough energy to perform the walk
  • Extra money: take money preferably in soles for drinks, tips and souvenirs: during the excursion you will find facilities or bathrooms where you will have to pay for the use of some of them, especially the first day.

Itinerary

Day 1Cusco – Mollepata – Challacancha – Soraypampa

Early Morning Departure: Your adventure begins with an early pickup from your hotel in Cusco between 04:30 to 05:00 AM. Enjoy the scenic drive to Mollepata where you’ll stop for a hearty breakfast to fuel the day ahead. Continue with a 1-hour bus ride to Challacancha (3,380 meters), the starting point of your trek.

Trek to Soraypampa: From Challacancha, set off on a 2-hour trek that brings you to Soraypampa (3,900 meters) by 1:30 PM. Here, you’ll set up camp and have lunch surrounded by the majestic peaks of the Andes.

Humantay Lake Excursion: After lunch, embark on a breathtaking hike to Humantay Lake (4,220 meters). The crystalline waters and surrounding snow-capped mountains provide a perfect backdrop for photography enthusiasts.

Evening at Camp: Return to camp for a relaxing tea time followed by dinner. Overnight in comfortable huts, resting up for the trek ahead.

  • Meals: Lunch, Dinner. 
  • Accommodation: Camping (huts/tents)
  • Walking Time: 4 to 5 hours. 
  • Trekking Distance: 10 kilometers / 6 miles.
  • Campsite Elevations: 3800 m.a.s.l  

 

Day 2Soraypampa – Salkantay Pass – Colpapampa

Morning Rituals: Start your day with a warming coca tea served at your hut, followed by breakfast to energize you for the trek ahead.

Ascend Salkantay Pass: Today’s trek leads you towards the awe-inspiring Salkantay Mountain, reaching the Salkantay Pass (4,600 meters). Here, experience the raw beauty of the high Andes, feeling the crisp air and enjoying panoramic views.

Descent to Colpapampa: After crossing the pass, embark on a 2-hour descent to your lunch spot. The journey continues to Colpapampa (2,900 meters), tonight’s campsite nestled in a more verdant area of the trail.

  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  • Accommodation: Camping (huts)
  • Walking Time: 9 -10 hours

Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Accommodation: Mountain Sky Hut
Difficulty Level: Moderate
Hiking Distance: 10 kilometers (approximately 6 miles)
Estimated Trekking Duration: 5 to 6 hours
Campsite Elevation: 4,000 meters above sea level
Weather Forecast: Expect cold and windy nights during the dry season (May to August), with temperatures potentially dropping to -5 degrees Celsius.
Additional Note: This day serves as a period of training and preparation. It is ideal for acclimatizing in anticipation of Day 02, which poses the most significant challenge of the entire trek.

 

Day 3Colpapampa – La Playa Sayhuyaco – Aguas Calientes

Descent through Biodiversity: Morning begins with a leisurely 4-hour descent to La Playa Sayhuyaco. Trek through increasingly lush terrain, entering the high jungle where the climate warms and the biodiversity flourishes.

Journey to Aguas Calientes: After lunch, take a 2-hour bus ride to Hidroelectrica followed by a captivating 3-hour walk along the railroad tracks to Aguas Calientes. This path runs parallel to the river, offering serene views and a chance to reflect on the journey thus far.

Evening Arrival: Check into your hostel around 5 to 6 PM, where you can relax and prepare for the next day’s visit to Machu Picchu.

  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  • Accommodation: Hostel
  • Walking Time: 8 – 9 hours

Day 4Aguas Calientes Pueblo – Machu Picchu – Cusco

Machu Picchu Exploration: After breakfast, choose to hike or take the bus up to Machu Picchu. Enjoy a comprehensive 2-hour guided tour through its agricultural terraces, residential areas, and religious sites, uncovering the mysteries of this ancient wonder.

Optional Mountain Treks: If pre-booked, you can ascend either Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain for breathtaking views over the citadel and the surrounding valley.

Return Journey: Later, head back to Aguas Calientes to catch the train to Ollantaytambo. From there, a bus will take you back to Cusco. Alternatively, opt for a walk back to Hidroelectrica to catch a direct bus to Cusco, concluding your remarkable journey through the Salkantay route.

  • Meals: Breakfast
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FAQs

1.What is the altitude range and walking time for each day of the trek?

The altitude range varies throughout the trek, reaching a maximum of 4,600 meters at Salkantay Pass on Day 2 and descending to lower altitudes as the trek progresses. Walking time ranges from 4 to 5 hours on Day 1 to 9 to 10 hours on Day 2.

 

2.What type of accommodation is provided during the trek, and are there any single occupancy options available?

Accommodation during the trek includes camping in either huts or tents, providing comfortable shelter for participants. Single occupancy options may be available upon request, although they may come with additional charges.

 

3.Are meals included throughout the trek, and are there vegetarian/vegan options available?

Yes, meals are included throughout the trek, including breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Vegetarian and vegan options are typically available, and dietary preferences can be accommodated with prior notice.

 

4.How is transportation arranged back to Cusco after visiting Machu Picchu?

After visiting Machu Picchu on Day 4, participants have the option to either take a train to Ollantaytambo and then a bus back to Cusco, or to walk back to Hidroelectrica and catch a direct bus to Cusco. Both options offer convenient and comfortable transportation back to the starting point.

 

5.Are there any optional activities available during the trek, and what are they?

Yes, there are optional activities available during the trek. On Day 4, participants can choose to ascend either Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain for panoramic views of the citadel and the surrounding landscape.

1 Review
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Michael B.

Solo Traveller

I had an unforgettable experience on this Salkantay trek to Machu Picchu! The adventure started with an early pickup and a scenic drive to Challacancha. The trek to Soraypampa was challenging but rewarding, and the optional hike to Humantay Lake was an absolute highlight. The camp accommodations were comfortable, and the meals provided were delicious and nourishing.

Crossing the Salkantay Pass was an exhilarating experience, with stunning views that made the effort worthwhile. The descent through the high jungle to La Playa Sayhuyaco was beautiful, and the final walk along the railroad tracks to Aguas Calientes was a serene end to the trek. The guided tour of Machu Picchu was insightful, and the entire journey was well-organized and memorable. Highly recommended for anyone looking to explore the beauty and history of Peru!

August 22, 2022