The Salkantay 4D/3N trek offers an unparalleled adventure through the stunning Andean landscapes of Peru. Priced at $698.75 per person, this moderate trek provides an immersive experience, including hotel pickup, Machu Picchu entrance, professional bilingual guides, and most meals. Hikers will ascend to the Salkantay Pass, explore the serene Laguna Humantay, and witness the scenic route to Aguas Calientes. With a focus on preparation and safety, this remarkable journey promises to leave a lasting impression on those seeking to… [trail off]
Key Points
- The Salkantay 4D/3N tour is priced at $698.75 per person and includes hotel pickup, Machu Picchu entrance, and camping accommodations.
- The 4-day trekking itinerary involves reaching the Salkantay Pass at 4,630 meters, descending to Chaullay, and hiking to Aguas Calientes.
- The tour includes a guided tour of the Machu Picchu ruins and return to Cusco via train from Ollantaytambo.
- A moderate fitness level is required, and the trek involves a total of 3 hours of hiking per day.
- Preparation recommendations include cardiovascular exercise, proper trekking gear, and practice hiking with a backpack prior to the trek.
Tour Overview and Pricing
The Salkantay 4D/3N tour offers an immersive experience in the Peruvian Andes, priced at $698.75 per person.
This 4-day trek features free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and a reserve now, pay later option.
The tour lasts 4 days and includes hotel pickup, Machu Picchu entrance, a professional bilingual guide, camping accommodations, and most meals.
Hikers can expect to ascend to the 4,630-meter Salkantay Pass and trek through scenic landscapes.
With a moderate fitness level required, this tour provides an unforgettable adventure in the heart of the Andes.
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Itinerary Highlights
On the first day, the tour begins with pickup from Cusco and a breakfast stop in Mollepata before hikers ascend to the stunning Laguna Humantay.
The tour begins in Cusco, progressing to a breakfast stop in Mollepata before ascending to the breathtaking Laguna Humantay.
The second day challenges trekkers as they reach the Salkantay Pass at 4,630 meters, then descend 20 kilometers to Chaullay.
On the third day, travelers transfer to Santa Teresa before hiking to Aguas Calientes via Hidroeléctrica.
The final day features:
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A guided tour of the iconic Machu Picchu ruins
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Return to Cusco via train from Ollantaytambo
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Opportunities to immerse in scenic landscapes and local culture
Inclusions and Exclusions
This tour package includes a range of essential services and amenities to ensure a seamless and enjoyable experience.
It covers hotel pickup near the historical center, entrance fee to Machu Picchu, pre-tour briefing, a travel bag for personal items, a professional bilingual guide, camping accommodations, and most meals.
Transportation to the trek starting point, a first aid kit, and return train tickets are also provided.
However, the entrance fee to Laguna Humantay, incidental expenses, shuttle services to/from Machu Picchu, and the entrance fee and transport to Santa Teresa thermal baths are excluded.
Trekking pole rentals and the last lunch and dinner are also not included.
Important Information and Guidelines
A moderate fitness level is required for this trek, which involves a total of 3 hours of hiking.
This trek requires a moderate fitness level, involving a total of 3 hours of hiking.
The tour recommendations include:
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Bring extra soles for spending, tickets, tips, and altitude sickness medication.
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Wear a waterproof jacket and carry a small day pack.
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Bring a camera with extra batteries.
Plus, certain items aren’t allowed on the tour, such as pets, baby strollers, smoking in the vehicle, bikes, feeding animals, fireworks, and nudity.
Adhering to these guidelines will ensure a comfortable and enjoyable Salkantay trek experience.
More Great Tours NearbyAdditional Tour Features
The Salkantay trek offers a live tour guide fluent in both Spanish and English, ensuring clear and engaging communication throughout the journey.
Guests will be picked up from their hotels near the historical center of Cusco, with check-in details provided in the confirmation.
This trek immerses travelers in breathtaking natural scenery, including local flora and fauna, and stunning hikes through the Andes.
Guests can capture their experiences with their cameras, remembering to bring extra batteries.
However, certain items are prohibited, such as pets, strollers, and fireworks, to preserve the integrity of the trek.
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Preparing for the Trek
Though the Salkantay trek is rated as moderate in difficulty, hikers can adequately prepare themselves to enjoy the journey.
The Salkantay trek, though moderately difficult, can be enjoyed with proper preparation by hikers.
To ensure a comfortable and successful trek, it’s recommended to:
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Engage in regular cardiovascular exercise for 4-6 weeks prior to the trek to build endurance.
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Practice hiking with a backpack to get used to the weight and terrain.
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Acquire the proper trekking gear, including sturdy hiking boots, layers for varying temperatures, and a good quality rain jacket.
Proper preparation will allow hikers to fully enjoy the stunning Andean landscapes during the Salkantay 4D/3N adventure.
Experiencing the Salkantay Trail
With the proper preparation now complete, hikers embark on the Salkantay trail, seeing the stunning landscapes of the Andes. From the glacial Humantay Lake to the majestic Salkantay Pass, the journey tests one’s endurance and rewards adventurers with unparalleled vistas. The trek culminates in the iconic Machu Picchu, a fitting finale to this exhilarating experience.
| Salkantay Trail Highlights |
|—————————|
| Laguna Humantay | Salkantay Pass | Machu Picchu |
| Turquoise glacial lake | Ascent to 4,630 meters | UNESCO World Heritage Site |
| Spectacular mountain views | Challenging high-altitude hike | Guided tour of the citadel |
Visiting the Magnificent Machu Picchu
After completing the challenging trek through the Andes, hikers are rewarded with a guided tour of the magnificent Machu Picchu.
This once-in-a-lifetime experience allows visitors to:
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Explore the ancient Inca citadel, marveling at its extraordinary architecture and engineering feats.
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Gain insights into the rich history and culture of the Inca Empire from a knowledgeable guide.
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Soak in the breathtaking vistas of the surrounding Andes Mountains, creating lasting memories.
With the guided tour, hikers can fully enjoy the grandeur of Machu Picchu before returning to Cusco, leaving them in awe of this remarkable wonder of the world.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Average Group Size for the Salkantay 4d/3n Tour?
The tour group size varies, but generally ranges from 2 to 12 participants. The small group size allows for a more personalized experience and flexibility during the hike.
Can I Book the Tour for a Private Group?
Yes, you can book the Salkantay 4D/3N tour for a private group. The tour operator offers private group bookings, allowing you to customize the experience for your party’s specific needs and preferences.
What Type of Accommodations Are Provided During the Camping Nights?
The tour provides 2 nights of camping accommodations. During the camping nights, travelers will be staying in tents provided by the tour operator and sleeping on ground pads for comfort. Basic camping amenities like cooking facilities are included.
Are There Any Altitude Sickness Precautions Recommended?
The tour recommends bringing altitude sickness medication, as the hike reaches heights of over 4,600 meters. Travelers are also advised to acclimatize in Cusco before the trek to help prevent altitude-related symptoms.
Can I Extend My Stay in Machu Picchu Beyond the Tour Itinerary?
Yes, you can extend your stay in Machu Picchu beyond the tour itinerary. The tour only includes a guided visit on the final day, so you’re free to explore the site further on your own time and return to Cusco later.
The Sum Up
The Salkantay 4D/3N trek offers an unforgettable adventure through stunning Andean landscapes. With a focus on preparation and safety, hikers can enjoy the local culture and experience the scenic route to Machu Picchu. This moderate trek provides an exceptional opportunity to explore the natural wonders of Peru while adhering to important guidelines for a safe and remarkable journey.
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