Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu – 4 Days – Glamping Service

The Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu offers a thrilling adventure for nature enthusiasts seeking both exhilaration and comfort. This 4-day trek combines stunning Andean landscapes with the luxury of glamping service, making it an unforgettable experience. Hikers will enjoy guided exploration, delicious meals, and cozy accommodations as they journey through the region’s diverse ecosystems, ultimately reaching the iconic ancient ruins of Machu Picchu. For those seeking an adventurous yet indulgent Andean escape, the Salkantay Trek is a captivating option that promises an unparalleled journey.

About Your Stay

• The Salkantay Trek is a 4-day hiking adventure to Machu Picchu, with a maximum elevation of 4,600 m.a.s.l. at Salkantay Pass.
• The trek offers a glamping service, providing a comfortable camping experience along the route.
• The itinerary includes hiking through scenic Andean landscapes, a 2-hour guided tour of Machu Picchu, and a 3-star hotel stay in Aguas Calientes.
• Advance booking is recommended, especially for Huayna Picchu and Machu Picchu Mountain tickets, which are subject to limited daily permits.
• Travelers should be prepared for variable weather conditions and pack accordingly for both rain and sun.

Overview of the Salkantay Trek

The Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu is a 4-day hiking adventure that takes trekkers through stunning Andean landscapes.

Classified as moderate in difficulty, the trek covers a total distance of 41 km. Hikers will ascend to a maximum elevation of 4,600 m.a.s.l. at the Salkantay Pass before descending to Aguas Calientes, the gateway to Machu Picchu.

The trek is best undertaken during the dry season from April to September, when weather conditions are ideal.

Detailed itinerary, included services, and other essential information are provided to ensure a seamless and memorable trekking experience.

Detailed Itinerary

As the trek begins, participants depart from Cusco and travel to the starting point at an elevation of 3,300 m.a.s.l.

The first day covers 15 km, climbing to the highest point of the trek at 4,600 m.a.s.l. – the Salkantay Pass.

Participants embark on a 15 km hike, reaching the highest point of the trek at the Salkantay Pass, elevation 4,600 m.a.s.l.

On day two, the route descends 15 km to 2,000 m.a.s.l. at La Playa.

The third day involves an 11 km hike to Aguas Calientes, the town below Machu Picchu.

The final day is an easy walk from Aguas Calientes back to Cusco, with a two-hour guided tour of the iconic Machu Picchu ruins.

Included Services and Amenities

The Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu package includes a range of services to enhance the trekking experience.

Travelers will be accompanied by a professional bilingual guide and enjoy a 2-hour guided tour of Machu Picchu. They’ll also have a 3-star hotel stay in Aguas Calientes on the third night.

Drinkable water and snacks are provided from the second day onwards. The package covers 2 nights of private camping, transportation, walking sticks, and emergency equipment like oxygen tanks and riding horses.

Meals, including breakfast, lunch, and dinner, are also included for 3 days.

Exclusions and Additional Costs

A few items are excluded from the Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu package. The first breakfast in Cusco, as it’s typically included in most hotels, is not part of the package. Tickets for Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain must be purchased separately. Sleeping bags are available for rent. The last lunch in Aguas Calientes and tips for guides and porters are also not included. Cancellations may incur a non-refundable deposit.

| Exclusions | Cost |

| — | — |

| First Breakfast | Varies by Hotel |

| Huayna Picchu Ticket | $60 |

| Machu Picchu Mountain Ticket | $60 |

| Sleeping Bag Rental | $20 |

| Last Lunch in Aguas Calientes | Varies |

Booking and Payment Information

To book the Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu, tour operators require participants to provide personal information, including full name, gender, passport number, date of birth, and nationality.

Total payment is required upfront, with cash in USD or Peruvian soles also accepted. Discounts are available for students with ISIC cards ($20 off) and children (2-12 years: $20 off, 0-2 years: free).

Booking confirmation is needed 14 days prior, along with flight details. Changes to passports must be communicated to secure permits.

Advanced booking is recommended, as Huayna Picchu and Machu Picchu mountain tickets have limited daily availability.

Important Regulations and Considerations

Original passport information must match booking details, as changes to passports need to be communicated to secure the necessary permits. Plus, there are limited daily permits available for visiting Huayna Picchu and Machu Picchu Mountains – only 400 tickets, with 200 per group. Advance booking is recommended, at least 3 months prior for Huayna Picchu and 2 months for Machu Picchu. These tickets are non-transferable and non-refundable. The climate in the region is variable, so it’s essential to prepare for both rain and sun.

| Permit | Advance Booking | Total Daily Tickets |

| — | — | — |

| Huayna Picchu | 3 months | 400 (200 per group) |

| Machu Picchu | 2 months | 400 (200 per group) |

Climate and Weather Conditions

Although the Salkantay Trek can be enjoyed year-round, the best time to visit is during the dry season, which runs from the end of April to September.

Daytime temperatures are mild, and the likelihood of rainfall is lower, making for more comfortable trekking conditions.

During the rainy season, from October to April, hikers should pack waterproof gear, as showers can be more frequent.

Regardless of the season, the region’s climate is variable, so trekkers should be prepared for both sun and rain.

Proper packing and layering are essential to enjoying the stunning Andes scenery throughout the Salkantay Trek.

Questions About Your Stay

Can I Upgrade the Hotel Accommodation During the Trek?

Yes, you can upgrade the hotel accommodation during the trek. The service provider offers a 3-star hotel in Aguas Calientes, but you can pay extra to stay in a higher-class hotel if you prefer.

Is There an Option to Carry My Own Backpack?

Yes, trekkers can carry their own backpacks on the Salkantay Trek. An extra porter service is included to assist with carrying camping gear, but hikers are welcome to carry their personal belongings if they prefer.

Can I Book the Trek for a Larger Group Size?

Yes, larger group sizes can be booked for the trek. The company offers flexibility to accommodate groups up to a certain maximum size. Guests should check with the sales team for the latest group size policies and availability.

What Is the Maximum Weight Limit for the Porter Service?

The maximum weight limit for the porter service is 7 kg per participant. Porters can carry up to 25 kg of shared equipment and personal items. Excess weight may incur additional fees.

Is It Possible to Extend the Trek for an Additional Day?

Yes, it’s possible to extend the trek for an additional day. The tour operator can customize the itinerary to accommodate a 5-day trek if requested, though additional costs may apply for the extra day and services.

Final Verdict On This Stay

The Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu offers an unparalleled adventure through stunning Andean landscapes, complemented by the comfort of glamping accommodations and guided by experienced professionals. This 4-day trek’s moderate difficulty and captivating scenery make it a must-visit for nature enthusiasts seeking an exhilarating experience without sacrificing luxury. With its perfect balance of adventure and comfort, this trek is an unforgettable journey that showcases the best of Peru’s natural wonders.