From Cusco: 4-Day Salkantay Trek With Meals & Equipment

Set out on a captivating 4-day adventure through the Andes with Salkantay Trek from Cusco. This guided trek offers breathtaking landscapes, culture, and the iconic Machu Picchu. Priced from $410 per person, it includes meals, comfortable camping, and essential equipment. Explore snow-capped peaks, the Humantay Lagoon, and uncover the mysteries of this UNESCO World Heritage site. With personalized attention for up to 15 trekkers, this unforgettable experience promises to leave you in awe.

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Key Points

4-day Salkantay Trek priced from $410 per person, with free cancellation 24 hours in advance and the option to reserve without immediate payment.
The trek offers scenic vistas, culture, and an iconic finish at the UNESCO World Heritage site of Machu Picchu.
The daily itinerary includes early pickup from Cusco, a challenging ascent to Salkantay Pass, and a guided tour of Machu Picchu on the final day.
Accommodations include comfortable camping in domes and cabins, with all meals provided and support from English-speaking guides, chefs, and kitchen staff.
Additional inclusions such as pack animals, first aid kits, entrance to Machu Picchu, and train tickets, as well as the option to take a bus or hike to Machu Picchu.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Overview and Pricing

The 4-Day Salkantay Trek from Cusco offers an alternative to the crowded Inca Trail, priced from $410.00 per person.

This trek is free to cancel 24 hours in advance, and travelers can reserve a spot without immediate payment.

The 4-day adventure is limited to 15 participants and features live tour guides in Spanish and English.

Ranked among the world’s 25 best treks, the Salkantay Trek showcases scenic locations like Lake Humantay and Salkantay Mountain, culminating at the UNESCO World Heritage site of Machu Picchu.

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Trek Highlights

Ranked among the 25 best treks globally, the Salkantay Trek offers an alternative to the crowded Inca Trail. This 4-day adventure showcases stunning natural scenery, including the majestic Salkantay Mountain (6,264 meters) and the serene Humantay Lake. Trekkers can look forward to:

| Highlight | Description |

| — | — |

| Scenic Vistas | Breathtaking views of snow-capped peaks, alpine meadows, and remote valleys |

| Cultural Immersion | Opportunities to interact with local communities and gain insights into their way of life |

| Iconic Finish | The trek culminates at the iconic UNESCO World Heritage site of Machu Picchu |

The Salkantay Trek is an unforgettable experience for adventurous travelers seeking an alternative to the well-trodden Inca Trail.

Daily Itinerary

The 4-day Salkantay Trek begins with an early pickup from Cusco between 4:45 AM and 5:30 AM.

Salkantay Trek starts with an early pickup from Cusco between 4:45 AM and 5:30 AM.

You’ll hop on a bus to Mollepata for breakfast before trekking 4 hours to Soraypampa at 3900 meters.

In the afternoon, you’ll visit the stunning Humantay Lagoon.

Day 2 starts early with a challenging ascent to the Salkantay Pass, offering spectacular mountain views.

After lunch in Huayracmachay, you’ll descend to Chaullay at 2900 meters for camping.

On Day 3, you’ll walk to La Playa, then take transport to the hydroelectric plant before a 10 km hike to Aguas Calientes for the night.

Day 1

On the first day, you’ll be picked up from your accommodation in Cusco between 4:45 AM and 5:30 AM.

The bus will take you to Mollepata for breakfast, which isn’t included.

From there, you’ll trek for 4 hours to Soraypampa, reaching an elevation of 3900 meters.

In the afternoon, you’ll visit the stunning Humantay Lagoon.

The trek requires a moderate level of fitness, but the breathtaking scenery makes the effort worthwhile.

You’ll then set up camp for the night, preparing for the challenging ascent to the Salkantay Pass the next day.

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Day 2

After an early breakfast at 5:00 AM, the group faces a challenging ascent to the Salkantay Pass.

The steep climb takes them through rugged terrain, surrounded by the majestic Salkantay Mountain. As they push forward, they’re rewarded with spectacular views of the snow-capped peaks and glaciers.

The guides ensure the group stays hydrated and takes regular breaks to acclimate to the high altitude.

Upon reaching the pass, they’re greeted with a sense of accomplishment and awe at the breathtaking panorama.

The descent to Huayracmachay for lunch provides a well-deserved respite before continuing on to the campsite at Chaullay.

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Day 3

Day 3 begins with the group walking to La Playa through the scenic Santa Teresa Valley.

After lunch at La Playa, they’re transported to the hydroelectric plant.

From there, it’s a 10 km walk to Aguas Calientes, the town at the base of Machu Picchu, where they’ll stay overnight.

The trek today is moderate, allowing trekkers to rest and prepare for the highlight of the tour – visiting the iconic Inca citadel of Machu Picchu the next day.

With an early arrival planned, the group can make the most of their time at the UNESCO World Heritage site before the train departs back to Ollantaytambo.

Day 4

The final day of the trek begins with an early visit to Machu Picchu, where trekkers can enter the site from 6:00 AM to 3:00 PM.

Travelers have the option to take a bus up to the site for $12 or hike the 10 km from Aguas Calientes. A 2-hour guided tour is included, providing an in-depth exploration of the ancient Inca citadel.

After the visit, trekkers can catch the train at 4:22 PM or 6:20 PM to return to Ollantaytambo.

The Salkantay Trek concludes with a scenic train ride, capping off an unforgettable 4-day adventure in the Andes.

Inclusions and Accommodations

The 4-day Salkantay Trek package includes a pre-departure briefing to ensure trekkers are prepared for the journey.

Private transport to the trailhead in Mollepata is provided. Comfortable camping accommodations in domes and cabins are arranged. Meals, including 3 breakfasts, 3 lunches, and 3 dinners, as well as snacks and tea service, are included. Vegetarian options are available.

An English-speaking guide, chef, and kitchen team support the trek. Pack animals carry tents, food, and personal items up to 5 kg. A first aid kit with emergency oxygen is available.

Entrance to Machu Picchu and train tickets are also covered.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Store Extra Luggage in Cusco During the Trek?

Yes, the tour operator offers luggage storage in Cusco during the trek. Travelers can leave extra bags at their office and pick them up when they return from the Salkantay Trek.

Is There an Option to Rent Hiking Equipment?

Yes, hikers can rent hiking equipment like sleeping bags and walking sticks for an additional cost. The tour operator offers these rental options to provide everything needed for the trek.

Is It Possible to Arrange a Private Trek for My Group?

The 4-Day Salkantay Trek offers private group options. Travelers can inquire about arranging a private trek for their group, which allows for more flexibility and personalized experiences during the excursion.

What Is the Weather Like During the Trek?

The weather varies throughout the 4-day trek. Expect cool temperatures at higher elevations, with the possibility of rain, snow, and strong winds. Layering clothing is recommended to adjust to the changing conditions.

Can I Book This Trek as a Solo Traveler?

Yes, solo travelers can book this trek. The tour provider accepts individual bookings and will match solo travelers with small groups, ensuring a shared experience and camaraderie throughout the 4-day hike.

The Sum Up

This 4-day Salkantay Trek from Cusco offers an unforgettable adventure for travelers seeking stunning landscapes and culture. Priced at $410 per person, the guided trek includes meals, camping accommodations, and essential equipment. Participants will enjoy breathtaking views, visit the Humantay Lagoon, and culminate their journey at the iconic Machu Picchu. With personalized attention for a maximum of 15 trekkers, this experience promises lifelong memories.

You can check availability for your dates here: