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

The Salkantay Trek is a renowned hiking adventure through Peru’s stunning Andes. Over 4 days and 3 nights, trekkers will explore Humantay Lake, cross the breathtaking Salkantay Pass, and discover the iconic Machu Picchu ruins. With flexible booking options and professional guides, this all-inclusive tour provides an immersive cultural experience in a magnificent natural setting. For adventurous travelers seeking an unforgettable journey, the Salkantay Trek offers an unparalleled opportunity to connect with the majesty of the Peruvian landscape.

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Key Points

The Salkantay Trek is a 4-day, 3-night guided hike from Cusco to Machu Picchu, with a return journey by train.
The tour is priced from €426.21 per person and offers a reserve now, pay later option with free cancellation.
The itinerary includes hikes to Humantay Lake, Salkantay Pass, and Machu Picchu, with additional costs for transportation and entrance fees.
The tour includes meals, camping equipment, first aid, and emergency oxygen, but tips and personal expenses are not covered.
The service is subject to change due to weather, strikes, or other events, and no refunds are provided for cancellations or no-shows.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

The tour, named "Cusco: Salkantay Trek 4 Days 3 Nights with return by train," is priced from €426.21 per person.

It offers a reserve now & pay later option and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

The 4-day trek features guided hikes, including to Humantay Lake and Salkantay Pass, as well as a visit to Machu Picchu.

The 4-day trek offers guided hikes to Humantay Lake and Salkantay Pass, as well as a visit to the iconic Machu Picchu.

Included are entrance fees, meals, camping gear, and transport.

Additional costs cover the bus ride from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu and entrance to Machu Picchu Mountain or Waynapicchu.

The tour’s itinerary and services are subject to change due to weather or other events, with no refunds for cancellations.

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Itinerary Highlights

On the first day, the tour picks up participants from their hotel, provides breakfast in Mollepata, and then leads them on a hike to Humantay Lake before descending to Soraypampa and setting up camp at the Salkantay Pass.

The second day involves a challenging hike to the Salkantay Pass (4630m, 20km), followed by an Andean ritual and camping at Chaullay.

On the third day, hikers descend to Sahuayaco beach, transfer to Santa Teresa, and then hike along the train tracks to Aguas Calientes.

The fourth day starts with an early morning hike to Machu Picchu for a guided tour before returning to Cusco.

Included Services

The tour includes an entrance ticket to Machu Picchu, a pre-departure briefing, and a travel bag for up to 5 kilos of belongings.

You’ll have a professional guide available in English and Spanish. Meals are included, with 3 breakfasts, 3 lunches, and 3 dinners.

Camping equipment, first aid, and emergency oxygen are provided. Transportation to the trailhead and from Hidroeléctrica to Aguas Calientes is covered.

Sleeping bags are available to rent. Some costs, like tips, the bus ride from Aguas Calientes, and entrance to Machu Picchu Mountain, aren’t included.

Additional Costs and Notes

Although the tour includes a comprehensive set of services, there are a few additional costs and notes to be aware of.

Travelers must pay a 10-sol (approximately $3) entrance fee directly to the local government in Mollepata. Tips and any other personal expenses aren’t included in the tour price.

Plus, the bus ride from Aguas Calientes to the Machu Picchu site and back isn’t covered. Finally, entrance to Machu Picchu Mountain or Waynapicchu isn’t included.

The tour is subject to change due to weather, strikes, or other events, and no refunds are provided for cancellations due to these reasons.

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Important Information

Service on this Salkantay Trek is subject to change due to weather conditions, strikes, or other unforeseen events.

No refunds will be issued for cancellations caused by these factors. Clients who fail to show up for the tour will be considered to have completed the service without any claims or refunds.

The tour operator reserves the right to modify the itinerary or make necessary adjustments to ensure the safety and enjoyment of participants.

It’s crucial that travelers understand these policies before booking the Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu.

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Preparing for the Trek

Preparing adequately for the Salkantay Trek is crucial to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. Hikers should pack properly, with layers of clothing, sturdy hiking boots, and sun protection.

Packing a water filter, snacks, and a first-aid kit is also essential. Altitude sickness can be a concern, so travelers should acclimate before the trek and carry medication if needed.

Packing a water filter, snacks, and a first-aid kit is essential. Altitude sickness can be a concern, so travelers should acclimate and carry medication.

Fitness level is important, as the hike involves long days of strenuous activity. Travelers should consult with the tour operator about any special requirements or concerns.

With proper preparation, the Salkantay Trek can be an unforgettable adventure.

Exploring Machu Picchu

After reaching Aguas Calientes, the final destination of the Salkantay Trek, hikers eagerly anticipate their ascent to the iconic Machu Picchu.

An early morning hike takes them to the ancient Inca citadel, where a guided tour unveils the site’s rich history and architectural marvels.

Exploring the terraced ruins, guests marvel at the seamless stonework and breathtaking vistas of the surrounding Andes.

The tour provides insight into the ingenuity of the Inca civilization, leaving visitors with a deeper appreciation for this UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Finally, the journey back to Cusco completes the unforgettable Salkantay Trek experience.

Why Choose This Trek?

The Salkantay Trek offers an unparalleled adventure through the awe-inspiring landscapes of Peru’s Andes. This trek is a popular choice for several reasons:

Stunning Scenery: The trek takes hikers through diverse ecosystems, from lush cloud forests to the towering Salkantay Pass, providing breathtaking vistas at every turn.
Cultural Immersion: Participants can engage with the rich Andean culture, including the opportunity to participate in traditional ceremonies.
Challenging yet Manageable: The trek strikes a balance between physical challenge and accessibility, making it suitable for adventurous travelers of various fitness levels.
Iconic Destination: The trek culminates with a guided tour of the iconic Machu Picchu, a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the New Seven Wonders of the World.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Recommended Fitness Level for This Trek?

The Salkantay Trek is a moderately challenging hike that requires a good level of fitness. Participants should be comfortable with hiking for multiple hours per day over varied terrain and at high altitudes.

Can I Bring My Own Equipment or Rent It Locally?

Hikers can bring their own equipment or rent gear locally. The tour provider offers sleeping bags for rent. It’s important to ensure proper preparation and suitable equipment for the trek’s terrain and weather conditions.

Are There Any Age or Medical Restrictions for Participants?

There are no specific age or medical restrictions, but participants should be in good physical condition to tackle the challenging 4-day trek. Consultation with a doctor is recommended for anyone with health concerns prior to booking.

Can I Extend My Stay in Aguas Calientes After the Trek?

Yes, you can extend your stay in Aguas Calientes after the trek. However, this would be at your own expense and not included in the tour package. You’d need to make your own arrangements for additional nights in Aguas Calientes.

Is It Possible to Visit Other Inca Sites During the Trek?

The itinerary doesn’t include visits to other Inca sites during the trek. However, travelers can explore Machu Picchu and potentially visit nearby sites like Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain on their own after the guided tour.

The Sum Up

The Salkantay Trek offers an unforgettable adventure through the Peruvian Andes. This 4-day, 3-night trek, including a return by train, provides the opportunity to explore stunning landscapes, from Humantay Lake to Machu Picchu. With the flexible reserve now & pay later option and free cancellation, it’s an accessible choice for travelers seeking an immersive experience in this breathtaking region.

You can check availability for your dates here: