From Cusco: Salkantay Trek 4 Days-3 Nights to Machu Picchu

Exploring the Andes by foot is a thrilling way to reach the iconic Machu Picchu. The Salkantay Trek from Cusco takes adventurers on a 4-day journey, immersing them in stunning landscapes. Trekkers will hike to the breathtaking Humantay Lake, conquer the Salkantay Pass, and cap off the experience with an early morning ascent to the ancient Inca citadel. With a range of accommodations and a team of bilingual guides, this trek offers an unparalleled opportunity to discover the wonders of Peru’s Sacred Valley.

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Key Points

A 4-day hiking adventure from Cusco to Machu Picchu via the Salkantay Trek, with highlights including Humantay Lake, Salkantay Pass, and Machu Picchu.
The trek is priced between $720 and $684 per person, with a 5% savings available and a full refund for cancellations up to 24 hours in advance.
The itinerary includes camping, a night in Aguas Calientes, and guided tours in Spanish and English, with comprehensive amenities for a comfortable trekking experience.
Essential items for the trek include comfortable hiking shoes, warm layers, rain gear, sun protection, and personal toiletries, as the trek has varying difficulty levels.
Additional costs may include the Mollepata entrance fee, optional add-ons like Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain, and the cost of proper clothing and gear required for the trek.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Trek Overview and Pricing

The Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu is a 4-day hiking adventure that offers a unique and scenic route to the iconic Inca ruins.

Priced from $720 to $684 per person, with a 5% savings available, the trek promises an unforgettable experience. Travelers can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund and reserve their spot with no upfront payment.

The group size is limited to 15 participants, with live tour guides available in Spanish and English.

The trek’s highlights include Humantay Lake, the Salkantay Pass, and Machu Picchu, ensuring an immersive and memorable journey.

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Itinerary Highlights

Although the Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu spans 4 days, its itinerary highlights some of the most captivating sights along the way.

On day 1, trekkers start in Cusco, have breakfast in Mollepata, then hike to the stunning Humantay Lake before descending to Quiswarniyoc camp.

Trekkers begin in Cusco, enjoy breakfast in Mollepata, then hike to Humantay Lake before descending to Quiswarniyoc camp.

Day 2 features the trek’s highest point at 4,630 meters, where participants partake in an Andean ritual before descending to Chaullay camp.

On day 3, the group treks through the jungle to Sahuayaco beach, then travels by local transport to Aguas Calientes.

The final day includes an early hike to Machu Picchu and a guided tour.

Inclusions and Accommodations

The Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu package includes a comprehensive set of amenities and accommodations to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable experience.

It includes the entrance ticket, a travel bag for 7 kg, a bilingual tour guide, one night of camping, one night in a hostel in Aguas Calientes, and three meals per day.

Transportation from La Playa to Hidroelectrica, cooking equipment, a first aid kit, and an oxygen bottle are also provided.

Participants can rent a sleeping bag for $25. Vegetarian options are available upon request.

The package covers the essential elements for a memorable trekking adventure.

Important Information and Recommendations

When embarking on the Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu, it’s crucial to come prepared. Trekkers should bring the following essentials:

Comfortable, broken-in hiking shoes
Warm layers, rain gear, and sun protection
Personal toiletries and medications
Snacks and a reusable water bottle

The trek isn’t suitable for pregnant women, individuals with heart problems, wheelchair users, those with vertigo or epilepsy, or babies under 1 year.

Alcohol, drugs, littering, and nudity are strictly prohibited. Participants must be ready to face varying weather conditions and physical challenges throughout the four-day journey.

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Additional Costs and Notes

Along With the main tour costs, there are a few other expenses to be aware of on the Salkantay Trek. Travelers must pay a 10 sole (approximately $3) entrance fee to the local municipality of Mollepata. Plus, there are optional add-ons available, such as visiting Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain, which cost an extra $70. The trek itself involves varying levels of difficulty, so appropriate clothing and gear are essential. Participants should also be prepared for changing weather conditions and physical challenges throughout the 4-day journey.

| Additional Costs | | |

|——————|–|–|

| Mollepata Entrance Fee | 10 soles (~$3) | Required |

| Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain | $70 | Optional |

| Proper Clothing and Gear | Varies | Required |

| Preparation for Varying Weather and Challenges | N/A | Required |

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Exploring Humantay Lake

Hiking to Humantay Lake is one of the highlights of the Salkantay Trek. Nestled in the Andes at an elevation of 4,200 meters, the turquoise waters of Humantay Lake offer a breathtaking and serene experience.

Trekkers can:

Admire the stunning backdrop of snow-capped peaks and glaciers
Participate in an Andean ritual to connect with the natural environment
Take a refreshing dip in the cool waters (weather permitting)
Capture the perfect photo of this picturesque alpine lake

The hike to Humantay Lake is moderately challenging but rewarding, setting the tone for the rest of the Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu.

Conquering the Salkantay Trail

As trekkers ascend the Salkantay Trail, they’ll be greeted by the majestic Salkantay mountain, the second-highest peak in the Cusco region.

Reaching an awe-inspiring elevation of 4,630 meters, the trail’s highest point offers panoramic views of the Andes.

Along the way, hikers will participate in an Andean ritual, connecting with the spiritual essence of the land.

The descent through the lush jungle leads to the town of Sahuayaco and the hot springs of Santa Teresa, where trekkers can rest before the final leg to Aguas Calientes and the iconic Machu Picchu.

Discovering Machu Picchu

After conquering the Salkantay Trail, trekkers arrive at the ultimate destination – the iconic Machu Picchu. An early morning hike leads them to the historic Inca citadel, where a 2.5-hour guided tour awaits.

Trekkers are awestruck by the stunning vistas, intricate stonework, and rich history of this UNESCO World Heritage site. Afterward, they’re free to explore on their own, climbing the steep steps of Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain for breathtaking panoramas.

Trekkers are awestruck by the stunning vistas and intricate stonework of this UNESCO World Heritage site, free to explore Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain.

The experience is nothing short of transformative, leaving trekkers with a deeper appreciation for the Inca Empire’s remarkable achievements.

Guided tour of Machu Picchu
Opportunity to hike Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain
Stunning vistas and intricate Inca stonework
Transformative experience at a UNESCO World Heritage site

Frequently Asked Questions

Is There an Option to Add Extra Activities or Extensions?

Yes, there are options to add extra activities or extensions to the trek. Travelers can choose to hike up Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain for an additional cost.

What Is the Minimum Age Requirement for Participants?

The tour doesn’t have a minimum age requirement. However, it’s not suitable for babies under 1 year old due to the physical challenges of the trek.

Can I Bring My Own Tent and Camping Gear?

Yes, participants can bring their own camping gear. However, one night’s accommodation in a hostel in Aguas Calientes is included in the package. Rental of a sleeping bag is available for an additional $25.

Are Food Allergies or Dietary Restrictions Accommodated?

Yes, the tour accommodates dietary restrictions. Vegetarian meals are available upon request. However, it’s recommended to notify the tour provider in advance to ensure your specific needs are met during the trek.

What Is the Refund Policy if I Need to Cancel?

The trek offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. There’s also a "reserve now & pay later" option, allowing travelers to book their spot without an upfront payment.

The Sum Up

The Salkantay Trek offers an unforgettable adventure through stunning Andean landscapes, culminating in the awe-inspiring visit to Machu Picchu. Trekkers can expect a well-organized journey, with meals, accommodations, and experienced guides provided. Though the trek requires physical fitness, the breathtaking vistas and the accomplishment of reaching the iconic Inca citadel make it a must-do experience for outdoor enthusiasts.