Cusco : Salkantay Trek 4 Days 3 Nights With Return by Train

The Salkantay Trek offers adventurous travelers a chance to enjoy Peru’s breathtaking natural beauty. Over four days and three nights, hikers will ascend to stunning viewpoints, camp under the stars, and ultimately reach the iconic Machu Picchu. With a return journey by train, this comprehensive trek provides an unforgettable way to experience the magic of Cusco and the surrounding Andes. Whether you’re seeking cultural exploration or outdoor adventure, the Salkantay Trek promises an unforgettable journey that…

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Key Points

This is a 4-day, 3-night guided hiking tour from Cusco that includes a trek to Salkantay Pass and a visit to Machu Picchu, with the return journey by train.
The tour is priced at Kč 10,400 per person and has a limited capacity of 15 participants, with professional English and Spanish-speaking guides.
The itinerary covers highlights such as Humantay Lagoon, Salkantay Pass, Sahuayaco beach, and a guided tour of Machu Picchu.
The tour includes entrance tickets, meals, accommodations, ground transportation, and equipment, but excludes tips, personal items, and the bus fare from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu.
The tour is not suitable for pregnant women, individuals with mobility issues, or certain medical conditions.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

The Salkantay Trek is a 4-day, 3-night hiking tour that includes a return journey by train. Priced at Kč 10,400 per person, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and a reserve-now-pay-later option.

Limited to 15 participants, the trek is led by professional English and Spanish-speaking guides. Hikers can expect a duffel bag for 7 kg of belongings carried by horses, camping gear, meals, transportation, and a guided tour of Machu Picchu.

However, the trek isn’t suitable for pregnant women, those with mobility issues, or those with certain medical conditions.

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Itinerary Highlights

As the 4-day, 3-night Salkantay Trek begins, travelers start their journey with an early 5:45 AM pickup from their hotel.

They drive 2 hours to Mollepata for breakfast before hiking 2 hours uphill to Humantay Lagoon and 2 hours back down.

After lunch at the Quiswarniyoc campsite, the next day takes them on a 3-hour climb to the Salkantay Pass (4630 m), followed by a descent to Chaullay Camp (2900 m).

The next day’s hike takes travelers on a 3-hour climb to the Salkantay Pass at 4630 m, followed by a descent to Chaullay Camp at 2900 m.

On day 3, the hike leads to Sahuayaco beach, then local transport to Santa Teresa for lunch, and on to Aguas Calientes.

The trek culminates with a guided tour of Machu Picchu on the final day.

Day 1: Pickup, Breakfast, and Humantay Lagoon Hike

On the first day, travelers are picked up from their hotel at 5:45 AM and embark on the 2-hour drive to Mollepata.

After a hearty breakfast, the group begins the 2-hour uphill hike to the stunning Humantay Lagoon. Surrounded by snow-capped peaks, the emerald-colored lake is a sight to behold.

The descent takes another 2 hours, after which the group enjoys a well-deserved lunch at the Quiswarniyoc campsite.

This opening day lays the foundation for the Salkantay Trek, providing a glimpse of the breathtaking landscapes that await on the journey ahead.

Day 2: Salkantay Pass and Chaullay Camp

Waking up at 5:00 AM, travelers sip coca tea before enjoying a hearty breakfast at 5:45 AM.

They then commence a 3-hour hike up to the Salkantay Pass, reaching an elevation of 4,630 meters. This high pass offers sweeping views of the snow-capped Salkantay Mountain.

After taking in the majestic scenery, they begin their descent, stopping for lunch before continuing on to Chaullay Camp at 2,900 meters.

Here, they’ll settle in for the night, resting up for the next day’s journey through the cloud forest towards Sahuayaco beach.

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Day 3: Sahuayaco Beach, Santa Teresa, and Aguas Calientes

Trekkers rise with the sun, sipping coca tea before sitting down to a hearty breakfast at 7:00 AM. The group then embarks on a 5-hour hike to Sahuayaco beach. Upon arrival, they take local transport to Santa Teresa for lunch.

| Activity | Duration | Difficulty |

|———-|———-|———–|

| Hike to Sahuayaco beach | 5 hours | Moderate |

| Transport to Santa Teresa | – | Easy |

| Hike to Aguas Calientes | 2.5 hours | Moderate |

| Arrival in Aguas Calientes | – | – |

From Santa Teresa, trekkers begin a 2.5-hour hike to Aguas Calientes, the town at the base of Machu Picchu, where they will spend the night in a hostel.

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Day 4: Machu Picchu and Return to Cusco

After a restful night in Aguas Calientes, participants enjoy a hearty breakfast and then embark on a 30-minute walk to the Machu Picchu checkpoint.

They’re greeted by their guide for a 2.5-hour tour of the iconic Inca citadel. The guide provides insights into the history, architecture, and significance of this UNESCO World Heritage site.

Following the tour, participants have time to explore Machu Picchu on their own before descending to Aguas Calientes for the return journey to Cusco by train.

The trip concludes with a transfer back to their original hotel, completing the Salkantay trekking adventure.

Inclusions

The Salkantay Trek 4 Days 3 Nights package includes an entrance ticket to the iconic Machu Picchu site.

It also provides a briefing before the trek, a duffel bag for 7 kg of belongings carried by horses, and a professional English/Spanish speaking guide.

Meals like 4 breakfasts, 3 lunches, and 3 dinners are covered.

Accommodations include 2 nights camping and 1 night in a hostel in Aguas Calientes.

Ground transportation to the Salkantay trail and from the beach to Santa Teresa is included.

The package also provides a first aid kit, oxygen bottle, and sleeping bags for rent.

Exclusions and Restrictions

Although the Salkantay Trek 4 Days 3 Nights package covers many expenses, it doesn’t include additional expenses like tips and personal items. Travelers will also need to cover the cost of the bus from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu and back. Plus, the trek is not suitable for pregnant women, individuals with mobility impairments, heart problems, respiratory issues, kidney problems, or wheelchair users.

| Exclusions | Restrictions |

| — | — |

| Tips | Pregnant women |

| Personal items | Mobility impairments |

| Bus from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu | Heart problems |

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Dog on the Trek?

Unfortunately, dogs are not allowed on the Salkantay Trek. The trek involves hiking in remote areas, and the presence of pets could disrupt the group and pose safety concerns. Participants must leave their furry companions at home.

What Is the Typical Group Size for This Tour?

The tour has a small group size, limited to 15 participants. This intimate group allows for a more personalized experience and ensures a comfortable trek through the Andes.

Is It Possible to Extend the Tour Duration?

The tour duration can’t be extended beyond the 4-day, 3-night itinerary. The group size is limited to 15 participants, so extending the duration isn’t feasible. The set itinerary and group size are fixed for this specific Salkantay Trek offering.

Are There Any Age Restrictions for Participants?

The tour doesn’t have any specific age restrictions, but it’s not suitable for pregnant women, individuals with mobility issues, or those with heart, respiratory, or kidney problems. Children are welcome, though their fitness level should be considered.

Can I Pay for the Trek in My Local Currency?

The tour can only be paid for in Peruvian soles. However, you can reserve your spot without an upfront payment, allowing you to pay later in the local currency.

The Sum Up

The Salkantay Trek is a captivating 4-day, 3-night journey that showcases Peru’s breathtaking landscapes. Hikers will explore stunning landmarks, enjoy delicious meals, and experience the iconic Machu Picchu. With comfortable accommodations and a return journey by train, this trek offers an unforgettable adventure in one of the world’s most remarkable destinations.

You can check availability for your dates here: