SALKANTAY TREK TO MACHU PICCHU 4 DAYS

The Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu is a renowned 4-day adventure through the Peruvian Andes. Trekkers will be captivated by the breathtaking Humantay Lagoon and the challenging Salkantay Pass at 4,620 meters. With guided tours available in multiple languages, this comprehensive experience includes accommodation, meals, and transportation, culminating in a guided tour of the iconic Machu Picchu. For nature and history enthusiasts seeking an unforgettable journey, the Salkantay Trek promises an exhilarating exploration of Peru’s stunning landscapes.

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Key Points

The Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu is a 4-day guided adventure that features stunning landscapes, including Humantay Lagoon and Salkantay Pass at 4,620 meters.
The trek is priced starting from $403 per person, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and optional rental gear like sleeping bags and trekking poles.
Highlights of the trek include visiting Humantay Lagoon, ascending to Salkantay Pass, trekking through the Peruvian jungle, and exploring the iconic Machu Picchu site.
The daily itinerary includes hiking to Soraypampa and Humantay Lagoon on Day 1, ascending to Salkantay Pass and descending to Collpapampa on Day 2, and trekking through the jungle to Aguas Calientes on Day 3.
Included transportation covers the train from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo and transfer from Playa Sahuayaco to Hidroeléctrica, while additional costs apply for water, sleeping bag rental, and trekking pole rental.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Overview of the Trek

The Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu is a 4-day adventure that takes hikers through stunning Andean landscapes and culminates in a visit to the iconic Lost City of the Incas.

A 4-day Andean adventure culminating in the iconic Lost City of the Incas.

Starting at $403 per person, the trek features a guided tour led by Spanish and English-speaking guides.

Highlights include the famous Humantay Lagoon and the Salkantay Pass, the highest point of the trek at 4,620 meters.

Travelers enjoy included accommodations, meals, and transportation, with the option to rent equipment like sleeping bags and trekking poles.

The trek can be booked with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

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Pricing and Booking Details

A 4-day Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu costs from $403.00 per person. This includes accommodation, meals, transportation, guides, and entry fees.

Cancellation is free up to 24 hours in advance. Travelers can reserve now and pay later.

The tour offers a live Spanish and English-speaking guide and highlights like the Humantay Lagoon and visiting Machu Picchu.

Additional costs include rental gear like sleeping bags and trekking poles, as well as extra horses for luggage over 5 kg.

Travelers can check availability and book the tour on the tour provider’s website, with the meeting point available on Google Maps.

Trek Highlights and Inclusions

4 highlights of the Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu include visiting the famous Humantay Lagoon at 4,220 meters, ascending to the highest point at Salkantay Pass, trekking through the Peruvian jungle for 5 ½ hours, and exploring the iconic Machu Picchu site.

The trek also includes:

Accommodation and meals (4 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 3 dinners)
Train ticket from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo
Transportation from Playa Sahuayaco to Hidroeléctrica
Professional English/Spanish-speaking guide
Horses and riders for camping equipment
Duffel bags for personal items (up to 5 kg)
Entrance tickets to Machu Picchu and Salkantay hike

Day 1: Cusco to Soraypampa and Humantay Lagoon

Pickup in Cusco begins early at 4:30 am, allowing travelers to drive to Mollepata for breakfast before reaching the starting point at Challacancha.

From there, the trek begins with a hike to Soraypampa. Hikers will enjoy the stunning views of the Humantay mountain as they ascend.

Reaching Soraypampa, they’ll stop for lunch and then visit the famous Humantay Lagoon, a turquoise-colored glacial lake nestled at 4,220 meters.

After exploring the lagoon, the group returns to their camp for the night, resting up for the challenging hike ahead on Day 2.

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Day 2: Salkantay Pass and Descent to Collpapampa

After an early breakfast at 5:00 am, the group ascends towards the highest point of the trek – the Salkantay Pass at 4,630 meters.

The hike is strenuous, but the views are breathtaking. Once at the top, they can:

Take in the stunning panoramic views of the surrounding mountains
Snap photos of the iconic Salkantay mountain peak
Enjoy a well-deserved break and snack before the descent
Reflect on the challenging yet rewarding journey so far
Prepare for the long downhill trek to the next campsite at Collpapampa.

The descent is gradual, leading the group through lush landscapes towards their next destination.

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Day 3: Jungle Trek and Journey to Aguas Calientes

The group leaves the Collpapampa campsite for a 5 1/2 hour trek through the lush Peruvian jungle.

They’ll pass by waterfalls, cross streams, and spot exotic wildlife.

After a lunch stop, they’ll take transportation to Hidroeléctrica and hike the final stretch to Aguas Calientes, the town below Machu Picchu.

This is an easier day, with no high passes to cross.

The trek is scenic and peaceful, allowing the group to prepare for the highlight of the trip – the visit to the iconic Inca citadel tomorrow.

The trek is scenic and peaceful, allowing the group to prepare for the highlight of the visit to the iconic Inca citadel tomorrow.

The day ends with arrival in Aguas Calientes.

Day 4: Exploring Machu Picchu

On the final day, travelers rise early to make the most of their visit to the iconic Machu Picchu. They embark on an early morning trek to the Lost City, where a guided tour awaits:

Explore the magnificent Inca citadel, marveling at its intricate architecture and stunning mountain backdrop.
Climb the iconic Machu Picchu Mountain or Huayna Picchu for breathtaking panoramic views (optional, additional cost).
Discover the site’s history and significance, learning about the Inca Empire from the knowledgeable guide.
Wander the ancient ruins, imagining what life was like centuries ago.
Soak in the tranquility and spiritual essence of this UNESCO World Heritage site before departing.

Transportation and Additional Information

To conclude the Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu experience, travelers take a train from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo. From there, a transfer brings them back to Cusco. The trek includes transportation throughout, except for water on the hikes and optional rentals like sleeping bags and trekking poles. Here’s a summary of the included and excluded transportation and additional items:

| Included | Excluded |

| — | — |

| Train from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo | Water for walks |

| Transportation from Playa Sahuayaco to Hidroeléctrica | Sleeping bag rental ($15 per person) |

| Duffel bags for personal items (up to 5 kg) | Trekking sticks rental ($20 per person) |

| Additional horses for luggage exceeding 5 kg |

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Minimum Age Requirement for the Trek?

The minimum age requirement for the trek is not specified in the provided information. The details do not mention any age restrictions, so the trek may be suitable for all ages, subject to the participants’ physical fitness level.

Can I Upgrade My Accommodation During the Trek?

Guests can upgrade their accommodation during the trek, though this may incur additional costs. They should inquire with the tour operator about upgrade options and pricing prior to the trek.

Is There an Option to Extend the Trek Beyond 4 Days?

Yes, the Salkantay Trek can be extended beyond 4 days. Travelers can opt for a 5-day or 6-day version of the trek, allowing more time to explore the Andes and enjoy the journey to Machu Picchu at a more leisurely pace.

Can I Pay in a Different Currency Besides US Dollars?

Yes, you can pay in different currencies besides US dollars. The tour operator offers payment options in various currencies, including Euros, Pounds, or the local Peruvian Sol, providing flexibility for international travelers.

How Physically Demanding Is the Salkantay Trek Compared to Other Treks?

The Salkantay Trek is considered one of the more challenging treks in the region, with long hiking days, high altitudes, and steep ascents. It’s suitable for experienced trekkers with a good level of fitness and hiking experience.

The Sum Up

The Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu offers an unforgettable journey through the stunning Peruvian Andes and lush jungles. Participants can explore the breathtaking Humantay Lagoon, conquer the challenging Salkantay Pass, and marvel at the iconic Machu Picchu, all while enjoying guided tours, comfortable accommodations, and delicious meals. This 4-day adventure is perfect for nature and history enthusiasts seeking an exhilarating and comprehensive experience in the heart of Peru.

You can check availability for your dates here: