Cusco: 4-Day Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu, Panoramic Train

Set out on a captivating 4-day Salkantay Trek to the iconic Machu Picchu from the vibrant city of Cusco. This unforgettable adventure takes you through breathtaking landscapes, culminating in a guided tour of the ancient Inca citadel. Enjoy a unique glamping experience, local cuisine, and a scenic return via panoramic train. Explore this perfect blend of adventure and comfort, where culture and natural wonders await.

Key Points

• The 4-day Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu offers a captivating itinerary showcasing the natural wonders of the Andes, including the Salkantay Pass and Humantay Lake.
• The trek includes a glamping experience, a hotel stay in Aguas Calientes, and a guided tour of Machu Picchu, with the option to return via Vistadome train.
• The package includes transportation, professional English and Spanish-speaking guides, camping gear, and most meals, with a 20% discount from the regular price of $698.
• Participants should have a moderate fitness level, and special dietary needs can be accommodated with advance notice, though the trek may not be suitable for individuals with mobility impairments.
• The trek offers a full refund if canceled up to 24 hours in advance, and no upfront payment is required to reserve a spot.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Overview and Pricing

The 4-Day Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu offers an opportunity to explore the stunning Andes landscape at a discounted price.

Priced from $558.40 per person, a 20% saving from the original $698.00, this trek allows travelers to cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Guests can reserve their spot without any upfront payment, paying later.

The trek includes comfortable camping, a glamping experience, and a hotel stay in Aguas Calientes, plus all transportation, guides, entrance fees, and most meals.

Itinerary Highlights

The 4-Day Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu features a captivating itinerary that showcases the region’s natural wonders.

Day 1 starts with an early pickup and a hike to the stunning Humantay Lake before reaching the SalkaGlamp campsite.

On Day 2, trekkers conquer the challenging Salkantay Pass before descending to Collpapampa.

The third day includes a scenic hike to Lucmabamba, where they’ll enjoy a Pachamanca barbecue and visit a coffee farm before reaching Aguas Calientes.

Finally, an early bus takes them to Machu Picchu for a guided tour before returning by Vistadome train.

Accommodations and Amenities

On the Salkantay Trek, trekkers can look forward to a comfortable camping experience, with 2 nights in spacious tents and 1 night in a 3-star hotel in Aguas Calientes.

The glamping setup features tea, delicious dinners, and starry nights. Mules carry the camping equipment, so trekkers only need to carry a daypack.

In Aguas Calientes, the 3-star hotel provides a warm and cozy stay after the challenging hike.

Throughout the trek, the guides ensure trekkers’ comfort and safety, with first-aid kits, satellite phones, and oxygen supply available if needed.

Inclusions and Services

The Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu package includes a comprehensive suite of services to ensure a seamless and memorable experience. From hotel pickup and drop-off to all transportation and entry tickets, the tour covers the essentials. Guests can also expect the guidance of professional multilingual guides, satisfying meals on the trail, and first-aid support. To enhance the journey, the package includes a cooking class, coffee experience, and a duffel bag for personal items. With these inclusions, trekkers can focus on seeing the stunning Andean landscapes and the grand finale at Machu Picchu.

| Services Included | Details |

| — | — |

| Transportation | Pickup/drop-off, all ground transfers |

| Guides | Professional English & Spanish speakers |

| Meals | Breakfast, lunch, dinner on the trail |

| Equipment | Camping gear, duffel bag for 8 kg |

| Experiences | Cooking class, coffee farm visit |

More Great Tours Nearby

Important Information and Recommendations

Individuals with mobility impairments may find the Salkantay Trek unsuitable, as the trail involves challenging hikes and steep ascents.

Travelers should pack comfortable shoes, layers of clothing, and a daypack for essentials. Advising any special dietary needs when booking is recommended.

Children must be accompanied by an adult, and passport details should be provided during booking. Additional entry tickets for Huayna Picchu and Machu Picchu Mountain can be arranged.

Trekkers should also come prepared with cash for any personal expenses. The trek requires a moderate fitness level and proper preparation for an unforgettable journey to the ancient Incan citadel.

Exploring the Salkantay Trail

Traversing the Salkantay Trail, one embarks on a captivating journey that presents a testament to the resilience and grandeur of the Andes.

Trekkers ascend to the Salkantay Pass, a high-altitude gateway offering breathtaking panoramas. Along the route, they’ll encounter the serene Humantay Lake, surrounded by snow-capped peaks, and discover the traditional Pachamanca barbecue in Lucmabamba.

The trail’s diverse landscapes, from alpine meadows to cloud forests, provide a unique opportunity to take in Peru’s natural wonders. Guided by experienced professionals, this trek promises an unforgettable adventure leading to the iconic Machu Picchu.

Taking in Machu Picchu’s Grandeur

At the culmination of the Salkantay Trek, travelers arrive at the legendary Machu Picchu, a marvel of Inca engineering and one of the New Seven Wonders of the World.

With an early bus ride, they’ll have ample time to explore the awe-inspiring citadel. A guided tour showcases the intricate stonework, terraced gardens, and sacred structures that have stood the test of time.

Visitors can then discover Machu Picchu at their own pace, soaking in the serene atmosphere and stunning vistas.

The return journey via the panoramic Vistadome train provides a scenic conclusion to this unforgettable Andean adventure.

Experiencing the Vistadome Train Journey

The Vistadome train journey provides a scenic conclusion to this Andean adventure.

Departing from Aguas Calientes, the train winds through the stunning Urubamba River Valley, offering panoramic views of the Andes.

Passengers can enjoy:

1. Large panoramic windows that allow for unobstructed sightseeing.

2. Informative commentary about the region’s history and natural wonders.

3. Onboard snacks and refreshments to savor the experience.

This train ride is the perfect way to reflect on the incredible trek and transition back to the modern world, leaving travelers with lasting memories of their Machu Picchu expedition.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Choose the Hiking Pace During the Trek?

You can’t fully choose the hiking pace during the trek. The guide sets the overall pace, but you can adjust your pace within the group as needed to accommodate your fitness level.

Is There an Option to Stay in a Hotel Throughout the Trek?

The 4-Day Salkantay Trek offers a mix of camping and hotel accommodations. Hikers will spend 2 nights camping in tents and 1 night in a 3-star hotel in Aguas Calientes. There’s no option to stay in hotels throughout the entire trek.

Do I Need to Bring My Own Camping Gear?

No, you don’t need to bring your own camping gear. The trek includes comfortable tents and a glamping experience, with all camping equipment and supplies provided by the tour company.

Is There a Weight Limit for the Duffle Bag?

The tour provides a duffle bag for up to 8 kg (17 lb) of personal items. This weight limit allows guests to travel light while the porter mules carry the camping equipment.

Can I Extend My Stay in Aguas Calientes After the Trek?

Yes, you can extend your stay in Aguas Calientes after the trek. The package includes only 1 night in Aguas Calientes, but you can book additional nights there independently to explore the town further.

The Sum Up

The Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu is a captivating adventure that combines breathtaking natural landscapes, immersive cultural experiences, and the awe-inspiring wonder of the ancient Inca citadel. This 4-day journey offers the perfect blend of excitement and comfort, leaving you with indelible memories and a deeper appreciation for the rich heritage of Peru.

You can check availability for your dates here: