Salkantay Trek 4 Days to Machu Picchu – Best Trek in Peru

The Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu offers an unparalleled trekking experience in Peru. Traversing through stunning landscapes, this 4-day adventure showcases the country’s natural beauty. Travelers can expect personalized attention from knowledgeable guides while exploring highlights like Humantay Lake and the Salkantay passage. Culminating with a guided tour of the iconic Machu Picchu ruins, the Salkantay Trek promises an unforgettable journey that showcases the best of Peru’s outdoor adventures.

Key Points

• The Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu is a 4-day journey starting in Cusco, Peru, featuring stunning natural landscapes and a guided tour of the Machu Picchu ruins.
• The trek is limited to small groups of up to 15 travelers, offering a personalized experience with professional, multilingual guides providing expert knowledge and support.
• All necessary camping gear is included, with 2 nights spent camping and 1 night in a hotel in Aguas Calientes, and horses transporting luggage.
• The trek includes 3 breakfasts, 3 lunches, and 3 dinners, providing excellent value with essential elements included for a starting price of $479.73 per person.
• Participants are required to attend a pre-trek briefing, have a moderate fitness level, and adhere to a non-refundable policy, ensuring a well-organized and safe trekking experience.

Trek Overview

The Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu is a 4-day hiking adventure that begins in the city of Cusco, Peru.

Trekkers will hike to stunning Humantay Lake, cross the challenging Salkantay passage, and descend into the picturesque Santa Teresa Valley.

The final day includes a guided tour of the iconic Machu Picchu ruins before returning to Cusco by train.

This small group trek, limited to 15 travelers, is led by professional Spanish and English-speaking guides who provide personalized attention.

Campsites, most meals, and essential gear like duffle bags and horses for luggage transport are included in the trek package.

Group Size and Guide

A small group format, with a maximum of 15 travelers, allows for more personalized attention from the guides.

These professional, Spanish/English-speaking guides lead the trek, providing expert knowledge and support throughout the journey. Their attentiveness ensures a safe and enriching experience for each participant.

The small group size fosters a sense of camaraderie, enabling travelers to bond over their shared adventure.

This intimate setting contrasts with the large, impersonal groups typical of many trekking tours, making the Salkantay Trek a more intimate and fulfilling experience for those seeking a personalized journey to Machu Picchu.

Camping Gear and Accommodations

As part of the Salkantay Trek, all necessary camping gear is provided, ensuring a comfortable outdoor experience.

Travelers will spend 2 nights camping along the trek, with 1 night in a hotel in Aguas Calientes before visiting Machu Picchu.

A duffel bag is included for personal belongings, limited to 5 kilos.

Horses are used to transport the group’s luggage, allowing hikers to enjoy the journey without the burden of heavy packs.

With these accommodations, trekkers can focus on the stunning natural scenery and culture during this 4-day adventure to the iconic Machu Picchu.

Included Meals and Costs

Included in the Salkantay Trek are 3 breakfasts, 3 lunches, and 3 dinners. The total price for the 4-day trek ranges from $479.73 per person.

Additional costs include:

• Entrance fee to Humantay Lake

• Machu Picchu Circuit Ticket and 2-hour guided tour

• Bus roundtrip Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu ($12 USD per ticket)

• Travel insurance is recommended

While meals and major attractions are covered, independent travelers should budget for any incidental or personal expenses during the trek.

The trek overall provides excellent value by including essential elements like camping gear, private transportation, and a professional guide.

Pre-Trek Briefing and Requirements

Prior to the trek, travelers attend an informative briefing at 7:00 PM the day before. During this session, the guide provides an overview of the itinerary, gear requirements, and safety protocols.

Participants must confirm their participation within 48 hours, subject to availability. This trek isn’t suitable for those with serious medical conditions or pregnant travelers. A moderate level of physical fitness is necessary, as the trail involves steep ascents and descents.

Importantly, the trek is non-refundable, and no refunds are offered for cancellations. The pre-trek briefing ensures travelers are well-prepared for their Salkantay adventure to Machu Picchu.

Physical Fitness Level

The Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu requires a moderate level of physical fitness. This multi-day hike involves:

• Ascending over 4,600 meters (15,000 feet) at the Salkantay Pass

• Trekking 12-15 km (7-9 miles) per day

• Navigating uneven terrain and steep inclines

Travelers should be able to hike for 6-8 hours per day while carrying a daypack.

Previous hiking experience is helpful but not mandatory. Those with serious medical conditions or who aren’t reasonably fit may find the trek challenging.

It’s important to train beforehand to ensure an enjoyable and safe journey to the iconic Machu Picchu.

Reviews and Availability

Travelers can find reviews and availability details for the Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu online.

Travelers can find reviews and availability details for the Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu online.

The trek has 6 reviews across Viator and Tripadvisor, with an overall rating of 3.8 out of 5. Customers praise the scenic landscapes and knowledgeable guides, though some mention the demanding pace.

Availability is subject to confirmation within 48 hours and is dependent on open spots. The trek is non-refundable, so travelers must be sure of their plans.

With a moderate fitness level required, the Salkantay Trek offers an adventurous journey to the iconic Machu Picchu.

The Sum Up

The Salkantay Trek is a fantastic 4-day adventure that takes travelers on a journey through Peru’s stunning landscapes, culminating in a guided tour of the iconic Machu Picchu ruins. With a small group size and expert guides, participants can expect personalized attention and an unforgettable trekking experience. The trek’s combination of natural beauty and culture makes it one of the best in the country.