The Salkantay Trek offers an exhilarating 4-day, 3-night excursion through Peru’s breathtaking landscapes. Scaling the Andes and descending into the lush Amazon, this trek culminates at the iconic Machu Picchu. With a starting price of $440 per person, it’s an enticing option for outdoor enthusiasts and history buffs seeking an immersive cultural experience. From the stunning Humantay Lagoon to the challenging Salkantay Pass, this trek promises an unforgettable journey for those willing to explore the wonders that await.

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Key Points

The Salkantay Trek is a 4-day, 3-night hiking adventure that culminates at the iconic Machu Picchu, one of the New Seven Wonders.
The trek features an ascent to the Salkantay Pass at 4,630 meters, offering stunning views of the Andes before transitioning to the lush Peruvian Amazon.
The starting price for the trek is $440.00 per person, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
The trek is available in English and Spanish, with a live tour guide enhancing the overall experience for outdoor enthusiasts and history buffs.
Key highlights include the iconic Humantay Lagoon, an alpine lake, and the opportunity to explore the cultural and natural wonders along the way.

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Overview and Pricing

The Salkantay Trek is a 4-day, 3-night adventure activity priced from $440.00 per person.

Travelers can reserve their spot now and pay later, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

The trek is available in English and Spanish, with a live tour guide.

Offered in English and Spanish, the Salkantay Trek features a live tour guide to enhance the immersive experience.

The 4-day duration offers ample time to explore stunning landscapes and natural wonders, including the renowned Machu Picchu.

With practical inclusions and flexible transportation options, the Salkantay Trek provides an immersive experience in the heart of Peru’s breathtaking mountain scenery.

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Highlights and Experience

Throughout the Salkantay Trek, travelers enjoy stunning natural landscapes and captivating experiences.

The trek showcases the iconic Humantay Lagoon, a serene alpine lake nestled beneath the snow-capped Humantay Mountain. Trekkers then venture to the awe-inspiring Machu Picchu, one of the New Seven Wonders of the World.

Along the way, they witness the dramatic transition from the Andes to the lush Peruvian Amazon, creating a truly diverse and unforgettable journey.

The trek offers a perfect blend of nature, culture, and adventure, delivering an unparalleled experience for outdoor enthusiasts and history buffs alike.

Daily Itinerary

The first day begins with an early departure from Cusco at 5:45 AM, heading for the town of Mollepata which takes around 2 hours to reach.

After a breakfast stop, the group pays a 10 soles entrance fee and drives to Soraypampa, then hikes for 2 hours to reach the stunning Humantay Lagoon.

Lunch is served at the camp.

On day two, the trek starts at Quiswarniyoc, climbing to the Salkantay Pass at 4,630 meters.

After an early 5:45 AM breakfast, the group reaches the midway point for lunch before descending to Chaullay Camp at 2,900 meters on the edge of the Amazon.

Day 1

Departing Cusco at 5:45 AM, the group travels for 2 hours to reach the town of Mollepata. After a breakfast stop, they pay the 10 soles entrance fee and drive for 1 hour to Soraypampa. The trek then begins, with a 2-hour hike to the stunning Humantay Lake. Lunch is served at the campsite.

| Activity | Time |

| — | — |

| Depart Cusco | 5:45 AM |

| Reach Mollepata | 2 hours |

| Breakfast stop | – |

| Drive to Soraypampa | 1 hour |

| Hike to Humantay Lake | 2 hours |

| Lunch at camp | – |

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Day 2

Starting at Quiswarniyoc, the trekkers ascend to the Salkantay Pass (4630 m, 20 km) on the second day.

They depart camp at 5:45 AM for breakfast. The hike to the pass is challenging but rewarded with stunning views. Along the way, they stop for a midday lunch.

After reaching the pass, they begin the descent to Chaullay Camp (2900 m), located at the edge of the Peruvian Amazon. The camp provides a comfortable resting spot after a long day of trekking through the serene Andean landscapes.

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Day 3

At 6:00 AM, the trekkers depart Chaullay Camp and are served breakfast.

They then hike for 5 hours to reach Sahuayaco beach. From there, they take local transportation to Santa Teresa for lunch.

Afterwards, they continue to Hidroeléctrica and walk 3 hours along the train tracks to reach Aguas Calientes.

Trekkers continue to Hidroeléctrica, walking 3 hours along the train tracks to reach Aguas Calientes, the town at the base of Machu Picchu.

This town at the base of Machu Picchu serves as the final overnight stop before the early morning visit to the iconic Inca citadel.

With a long day of hiking and travel behind them, the trekkers rest and prepare for the grand finale of their Salkantay adventure.

Day 4

After an early start at 4:00 AM, the trekkers make their way to Machu Picchu. A guided tour of the ancient Inca citadel follows, lasting 2.5 hours. Afterwards, they have the option to return to Cusco via train or bus.

| Option | Duration | Cost |

| — | — | — |

| Train | 3.5 hours | $$$ |

| Bus | 4 hours | $$ |

The tour provides an in-depth exploration of Machu Picchu’s history and architectural wonders. With the trek’s highlights now experienced, the trekkers can reflect on their remarkable 4-day journey through the stunning Salkantay region.

Inclusions and Amenities

The Salkantay Trek package includes a comprehensive set of amenities to ensure a seamless and comfortable experience for trekkers. The highlights include:

Entrance ticket to the iconic Machu Picchu site.
Briefing session prior to departure, professional guide, and first aid kit for emergencies.
Accommodations, meals, and transportation provided throughout the trek, with options for train or bus return to Cusco.

Trekkers can also rent sleeping bags and request vegetarian meals.

Minimal additional costs include tips, gratitude, and a small entrance fee.

With these thoughtful inclusions, adventurers can focus on seeing the stunning natural landscapes along the Salkantay Trek.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Trek Suitable for Solo Travelers?

The Salkantay Trek is suitable for solo travelers. The tour includes a professional guide and supports like horsemen, making the trek manageable for solo adventurers. It’s a great way for solo travelers to experience the Andes and Machu Picchu.

What Is the Average Group Size for the Trek?

The average group size for the Salkantay Trek is typically around 8-12 trekkers. The small group size allows for a more personalized and intimate experience as you explore the stunning landscapes and iconic sites along the route.

Can the Trek Be Customized for Specific Dietary Requirements?

The Salkantay Trek offers vegetarian meals on request, accommodating specific dietary requirements. The tour provider is flexible and willing to cater to different dietary needs to ensure all participants have an enjoyable experience on the trek.

Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Salkantay Trek?

The Salkantay Trek doesn’t have any age restrictions, but it’s suitable for travelers aged 18-65 who are physically fit. Children under 18 can participate with adult supervision, and older adults should consult their doctor before booking.

Is It Possible to Upgrade Accommodations During the Trek?

Yes, it’s possible to upgrade accommodations during the trek. Hikers can opt for premium or deluxe camping options, which provide more comfortable tents and gear. These upgrades incur additional costs but offer a more luxurious experience on the Salkantay Trek.

The Sum Up

The Salkantay Trek is an exhilarating 4-day, 3-night adventure that immerses adventurers in the stunning landscapes of the Andes and Amazon. With highlights like the Humantay Lagoon and Salkantay Pass, this trek offers an unforgettable journey for outdoor enthusiasts and history buffs. Priced at $440 per person, the trek includes a live tour guide, making it an ideal choice for those seeking a captivating exploration of Peru’s natural and cultural wonders.