The Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu is a renowned adventure that’s sure to captivate outdoor enthusiasts visiting Peru. Over four thrilling days and three nights, trekkers will enjoy the Andes’ breathtaking landscapes, encountering diverse ecosystems and rich cultural experiences along the way. But the real highlight? Witnessing the awe-inspiring grandeur of the iconic Machu Picchu, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that has enchanted travelers for generations. It’s an unforgettable journey that promises to leave a lasting impression.

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Key Points

The Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu is a 4-day, 3-night trekking tour priced from $470 per person.
The trek features stunning Andean landscapes, tropical rainforests, and a visit to the iconic Machu Picchu UNESCO site.
Accommodations include camping and one night in a hostel in Aguas Calientes, with meals provided throughout the trek.
Recommended items to bring include warm clothing, proper hiking shoes, and essential personal care items.
The tour has a flexible cancellation policy, allowing for a full refund up to 24 hours in advance.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview and Highlights

The Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu is a 4-day, 3-night adventure that offers a remarkable experience in the Cusco region.

Priced from $470 per person, it’s a great value with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. Travelers will be picked up from their hotel and enjoy the services of a live, bilingual guide.

The trek showcases Salkantay Mountain, Andean landscapes, and tropical rainforests, culminating in a visit to the iconic Machu Picchu, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

With flexible cancellation and included essentials, this trek provides an unforgettable journey to one of Peru’s top destinations.

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Itinerary Details

The Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu unfolds over 4 days and 3 nights, offering an immersive experience through the diverse landscapes of the Cusco region.

The trek begins in Cusco, where hikers travel to Mollepata and camp at Soraypampa.

On day 2, they trek through the Salkantay Canyon, witnessing the gradual transition of flora and fauna.

Day 3 takes them through coca and tropical fruit plantations, reaching the town of Aguas Calientes.

Finally, on day 4, they enjoy an early morning visit and guided exploration of the iconic Machu Picchu ruins.

Start in Cusco, trek to Mollepata, and camp at Soraypampa
Trek through Salkantay Canyon to Chaullay, experiencing flora and fauna changes
Pass through coca and tropical fruit plantations, reach Aguas Calientes
Early morning visit to Machu Picchu, guided exploration of the ruins

Accommodations and Meals

One night of the Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu is spent in a DWB hostel in Aguas Calientes, which offers WiFi access.

The trek includes meals – 3 breakfasts, 3 lunches, and 3 dinners. Lunches include a boxed lunch.

Meals on the trek include 3 breakfasts, 3 lunches (boxed), and 3 dinners.

The company provides all the camping equipment, such as 4-person tents and sleeping mats. Travelers can rent a sleeping bag for an additional $20.

The tour also includes entrance to Machu Picchu and a return tourist train from Aguas Calientes.

Any special dietary requirements, like vegetarian meals, are available at an extra cost.

What to Bring and Important Information

Recommended items for the Salkantay Trek include warm clothing, proper hiking shoes, sunglasses, sunscreen, insect repellent, and a flashlight or headlamp.

Here are four important things to keep in mind:

Pets (except assistance dogs) aren’t allowed on the trek.
Smoking, alcohol, and littering are prohibited.
The trek isn’t suitable for children under 3, pregnant women, or those with heart problems, respiratory issues, or altitude sickness.
Sleeping bags can be rented for an additional $20.00, and entrance to the thermal baths costs 10 nuevos soles.

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Additional Services and Costs

Though optional services and additional costs may vary, the tour provider offers vegetarian meals and accommodates special dietary requirements for an extra fee. Plus, guests can rent a sleeping bag for $20.00 and visit the thermal baths near Aguas Calientes for 10 nuevos soles. The tour does not include international or domestic flights, and guests will need to arrange their own transportation from Ollantaytambo to Cusco at the end of the trek.

| Additional Services | Cost |

|———————|——|

| Vegetarian Meals | Varies |

| Special Dietary Requirements | Varies |

| Sleeping Bag Rental | $20.00 |

| Thermal Baths | 10 nuevos soles |

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Tour Cancellation and Refund Policy

The tour provider offers a flexible cancellation policy, allowing guests to cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. This gives travelers peace of mind and the freedom to adjust their plans if needed.

The cancellation policy is straightforward:

The cancellation policy is straightforward: cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Cancel up to 24 hours before the start of the tour for a 100% refund.
Cancellations within 24 hours of the tour start are non-refundable.
No-shows or early departures during the tour are non-refundable.
Refunds are processed within 7-10 business days after the cancellation request.

This policy ensures a hassle-free experience for trekkers.

About the Salkantay Trek

With the flexible cancellation policy in place, travelers can now focus on the highlights of the Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu.

This 4-day/3-night adventure offers an immersive experience, showcasing Salkantay Mountain, the highest peak in Cusco, and the transition from Andean landscapes to tropical rainforests.

Trekkers will traverse breathtaking canyons, encounter diverse flora and fauna, and visit the iconic Machu Picchu, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Led by bilingual guides, the trek provides a comprehensive exploration of the region’s natural wonders and cultural heritage, making it an unforgettable journey for outdoor enthusiasts.

Visiting Machupicchu

At the heart of the Salkantay Trek lies the iconic destination of Machu Picchu, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that captivates visitors with its ancient Inca ruins and breathtaking Andean setting.

This guided exploration of the archaeological wonder includes:

An early morning visit to witness the sunrise over the lost city of the Incas.
A comprehensive tour through the site, learning about its history, architecture, and cultural significance.
Opportunities to hike to the Sun Gate or Inca Bridge for stunning panoramic views.
Free time to wander the ruins and take in the ancient Inca atmosphere.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Maximum Group Size for the Trek?

The tour doesn’t specify a maximum group size. However, small groups are common for this trekking experience to provide a more personalized and enjoyable journey through the Andes and to Machu Picchu.

Is There an Option to Hike at a Slower Pace?

Yes, the tour offers a slower-paced option. Hikers can take their time and enjoy the scenery by opting for a slightly longer itinerary over 5 days/4 nights instead of the standard 4 days/3 nights.

Can I Upgrade the Accommodation in Aguas Calientes?

Yes, you can upgrade the accommodation in Aguas Calientes. The tour offers an option to stay in a hotel instead of the DWB hostel for an additional cost. This provides more comfort and amenities during your stay.

What Is the Policy for Bringing Children on the Trek?

The tour is not suitable for children under 3 years old. Pregnant women and those with heart problems, respiratory issues, or altitude sickness should also avoid the trek. The operator cites safety concerns for the restrictions.

Can I Extend My Stay in Machupicchu After the Tour?

You can extend your stay in Machu Picchu after the tour, but it’s not included in the package. You’ll need to arrange additional accommodations and transportation separately, which will incur extra costs.

The Sum Up

The Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu is an incredible adventure that takes you through stunning Andean landscapes. It’s a must-do for anyone visiting Peru, offering unique cultural experiences and breathtaking views, all culminating in a visit to the iconic UNESCO site of Machu Picchu. With guided services, meals, and accommodations included, it’s a great value that adventure seekers won’t want to miss.