The Cusco: Salkantay Trek offers an exciting 4-day, 3-night adventure for outdoor enthusiasts. Trekkers will explore stunning Andean landscapes, culminating in a guided tour of the iconic Machu Picchu. With a maximum of 15 participants and bilingual guides, this trek ensures a personalized experience. However, prospective hikers should be mindful of the physical demands and carefully review the inclusions before booking. What makes this trek stand out from other Machu Picchu experiences?

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Key Points

The Salkantay Trek is a 4-day, 3-night hiking adventure from Cusco to Machu Picchu, including a guided tour of the iconic Inca site.
The trek features stunning natural scenery, such as Humantay Lake and Salkantay Pass, as well as cultural exploration.
The trek is suitable for experienced hikers, with a maximum elevation of 4,630 meters and challenging uphill climbs.
Accommodations include camping and hostels, with most meals provided, and transportation back to Cusco via train.
While the trek receives mixed reviews, experienced guides and breathtaking vistas make it an appealing option for adventurous travelers.

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

The Cusco: Salkantay Trek 4 Days 3 Nights With Return by Train offers adventurous travelers a comprehensive exploration of Peru’s stunning Andes.

This 4-day trekking journey is priced from $450 per person and limited to 15 participants. Guided in English and Spanish, the non-refundable tour includes pickup, Machu Picchu entrance, camping/hostel accommodations, and most meals.

Highlights include hiking to Humantay Lake, crossing the Salkantay Pass, and touring Machu Picchu.

While suitable for most, the trek isn’t recommended for those with mobility issues, respiratory problems, or other medical conditions.

Customer reviews are mixed, though guides receive praise.

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Highlights of the Itinerary

While the Cusco: Salkantay Trek 4 Days 3 Nights With Return by Train packs a lot into its itinerary, a few highlights stand out.

On Day 1, trekkers hike to the stunning Humantay Lake before camping at the Salkantay Pass.

Trekkers hike to the stunning Humantay Lake before camping at the Salkantay Pass on the first day.

The following day brings the challenging ascent to the highest point at 4,630 meters. After lunch, the group descends to Chaullay.

On Day 3, the trek continues to Sahuayaco beach, then on to Aguas Calientes.

The grand finale is the guided tour of the iconic Machu Picchu on the final day before returning to Cusco.

Details of Day 1: Hiking to Humantay Lake

On the first day, the group departs Cusco at 5:45 AM for the drive to Mollepata, where they enjoy breakfast.

After fueling up, the trek begins with a hike to Humantay Lake. The 2-hour uphill climb rewards hikers with stunning views of the turquoise lake nestled beneath the towering Salkantay mountain.

The descent takes another 2 hours, leading the group to their camp at the Salkantay Pass.

The highlights of Day 1 include:

Witnessing the breathtaking Humantay Lake
Adjusting to the high altitude
Reaching the scenic campsite at Salkantay Pass

Exploring the Salkantay Pass on Day 2

Waking up at 5:00 AM, the group enjoys a hearty breakfast before embarking on the challenging hike to the Salkantay Pass, the highest point of the trek at 4,630 meters (15,190 feet).

The ascent takes around 20 kilometers and tests hikers’ endurance. Though strenuous, the stunning vistas of snow-capped peaks and glaciers make the effort worthwhile.

After reaching the top, hikers enjoy a well-deserved lunch before beginning the descent to Chaullay, a 3-hour trek down the mountain.

Weary but exhilarated, the group settles in for the evening, preparing for the next day’s adventures.

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Descending to Sahuayaco Beach and Aguas Calientes on Day 3

After reaching Chaullay, the group rises at 6:00 AM for breakfast. Fueled for the day, they embark on a 5-hour hike to Sahuayaco beach.

Arising at 6:00 AM in Chaullay, the group embarks on a 5-hour hike to the picturesque Sahuayaco beach, fueled by a hearty breakfast.

The journey features:

Stunning vistas of lush valleys and towering mountains.
A lunch stop in Santa Teresa to refuel.
Transport from the beach to Hidroeléctrica, followed by a 3-hour walk to Aguas Calientes, the gateway to Machu Picchu.

Arriving in Aguas Calientes, the hikers check into their hostel, ready to explore the ancient Inca citadel the next day.

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Discovering Machu Picchu on the Final Day

Travelers rise early on the final day, eager to embark on the 30-minute hike to the Machu Picchu checkpoint.

After checking in, they’re treated to a guided tour of the iconic Inca citadel, lasting approximately 2.5 hours. The guide shares insights into the site’s history, architecture, and significance, bringing the ruins to life.

Visitors can explore the temples, terraces, and plazas at their own pace before deciding whether to return to Cusco by train or bus.

With memories of the Salkantay Trek and a glimpse of Machu Picchu, the journey comes to a close.

Inclusions and Additional Information

The tour package includes a range of essential elements to enhance the Salkantay Trek experience. This includes:

A briefing prior to departure and a duffel bag for carrying 5 kilos of belongings.
Professional English/Spanish speaking guides, 2 nights camping, 1 night in a hostel, 3 meals per day, and cooking equipment.
First aid kit, oxygen bottle for emergencies, and transportation from the beach to Santa Teresa.

Plus, the tour allows for vegetarian options and prohibits alcohol, drugs, sprays, or aerosols.

Certain conditions, such as pregnancy or mobility issues, make the trek unsuitable.

Tipping, rental gear, and additional Machu Picchu fees aren’t included.

Customer Reviews and Feedback

According to the customer reviews, the Salkantay Trek 4 Days 3 Nights tour has received an overall rating of 2.6 out of 5 based on 5 reviews.

Reviewers have provided mixed feedback, with some praising the guide’s performance, while others have varied experiences based on their travel type, such as couples, solo travelers, and families.

The tour seems to cater well to the general traveler, but may not be suitable for those with certain health conditions or mobility impairments.

Customers should carefully review the included and excluded details to ensure the tour meets their needs and expectations.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Camping Gear?

Yes, you can bring your own camping gear. The tour allows participants to use their own equipment, but the tour also provides a duffel bag for 5 kilos of belongings during the trek.

Is There a Minimum Age Requirement for This Trek?

The trek has no minimum age requirement, but it’s not suitable for pregnant women, those with mobility issues, heart problems, respiratory issues, kidney problems, or wheelchair users. Participants must be able to hike for extended periods.

How Much Additional Money Should I Budget for Tips?

The amount of additional money to budget for tips typically ranges from $30 to $60 per person, depending on the size of the group and the level of service provided by the guide and support staff during the trek.

Are There Any Restrictions on Photography During the Tour?

The tour does not place any restrictions on photography. Hikers are free to take photos during the trek, but should be mindful of their surroundings and not disrupt the experience for others.

Can I Leave My Luggage at the Hotel in Cusco?

Yes, you can leave your luggage at the hotel in Cusco during the trek. The tour provides a duffel bag for up to 5 kilos of belongings that you’ll carry on the trek.

The Sum Up

The Cusco: Salkantay Trek offers an unforgettable 4-day adventure through stunning Andean landscapes, culminating in a guided tour of the iconic Machu Picchu. Priced from $450 per person, the trek promises breathtaking views, challenging hikes, and cultural insights. However, trekkers should be prepared for the physical demands and review inclusions carefully before booking. With a maximum of 15 participants and bilingual guides, this trek ensures a personalized experience.