SALKANTAY TREK 4 DAYS TO MACHU PICCHU SALKANTAY TREK 4 DAYS TO MACHU PICCHU SALKANTAY TREK 4 DAYS TO MACHU PICCHU
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SALKANTAY TREK 4 DAYS TO MACHU PICCHU

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Duration

4D/3N

Tour Type

Daily Tour

Group Size

Unlimited

Languages

English, Espanol

About this tour

Salkantay Trek 4 days to Machu Picchu: An Efficient and Memorable Adventure.

Embark on a breathtaking journey with our Salkantay Trek 4 days to Machu Picchu, the perfect adventure for those seeking the essence of the Salkantay experience in a shorter timeframe. This trek is expertly designed to offer an immersive experience in the stunning landscapes of the Salkantay mountains and glaciers, condensed into four action-packed days.

Your adventure begins with the awe-inspiring Humantay Lagoon on day one, followed by a restful night at the serene Quiswarniyoc private camp. The next day challenges you to reach the zenith of the trek, the majestic Salkantay Pass at 4700 meters, a moment that marks the start of your descent to the welcoming Chawllay campsite. The third day is a journey of discovery through the captivating Santa Teresa Valley, rich with local agriculture, leading up to your arrival in Aguas Calientes by evening. This prepares you for the grand finale of your trek: the exploration of the iconic Machu Picchu on day four.

The Salkantay Trek 4 days is tailored for efficiency, differing from the 5-Day version in its pace and focus. While the 5-Day trek allows for leisurely pursuits like soaking in the hot springs and trekking to the Llactapata viewpoint of Machu Picchu, the 4-Day variant optimizes your time. This approach omits certain activities to ensure a timely arrival at Machu Picchu, making it the ideal option for those with limited time who are eager to experience the natural beauty and cultural richness of the Salkantay trail and the majestic Machu Picchu.

Important:

  • Tickets to the Inca citadel of Machu Picchu are included in the price of the Salkantay Trek. The best circuits to visit Machu Picchu are Circuit 1 and Circuit 2, which are usually part of the Salkantay Trek tour.
  • To secure these circuits, it is very important to book the Salkantay Trek at least 3 to 4 months in advance, as demand for Machu Picchu is very high.
  • If Circuits 1 or 2 are not available, we will assign an alternative, such as Circuit 3 or Circuit 4. In the unlikely event that no circuits are available, your reservation may be canceled, and we will contact you to discuss other options for visiting Machu Picchu.
  • Discount for Visitors with Previously Purchased Machu Picchu Tickets:
    If you already have a ticket for Machu Picchu, you can still book the Salkantay Trek, and we will deduct $40 USD (152 soles) from the total trek price. This discount reflects the cost of the Machu Picchu ticket, as we will not need to purchase it for you.
  • To apply the discount, when making your reservation on our platform, please include this information in the “Notes to Organizer” section, clearly stating that you already have the Machu Picchu ticket. We will then adjust the final price of your reservation to reflect the discount.
  • This option allows you to enjoy our trek services without paying for a ticket you already have.
  • You can check the real-time availability of Machu Picchu circuits through this link: https://tuboleto.cultura.pe/llaqta_machupicchu

Included/Excluded

  • Included Machu Picchu Tickets: The price of the Salkantay Trek, regardless of the chosen option, be it return by car or train, includes a ticket to visit Machu Picchu. Typically, this ticket grants access to Circuit 02 of Llaqta Machu Picchu, subject to availability at the time of your reservation. If Circuit 02 is not available, we’ll arrange for an alternative such as Circuit 01, 04, or 03. For more details, [click here], and ensure you don’t miss out on the unforgettable visit to Machu Picchu.
  • Pre-Trek Briefing: Ensure you’re trek-ready by attending our detailed briefing at 7:00 pm the day before your departure, held at the Machu Picchu Reservations office. Can’t make it in person? No problem. Just contact us at +51974217700 to set up a virtual briefing. For a seamless setup, please reach out at least 48 hours in advance so we can arrange a personalized session with your tour guide.
  • Duffle Bag Service for 7 Kilos: During the informational briefing, you’ll receive a duffle bag to pack up to 7 kilos of your personal gear. Our team will transport these duffle bags on horses throughout the entire trek, and you’ll have access to them at the campsites. This allows you to hike comfortably with just your daypack. Once your trek concludes and you return to Cusco, you can conveniently leave the duffle bags at the Machu Picchu Reservations office.
  • Experienced Guides: Our tours are led by official bilingual (English and Spanish) tourism guides. All guides working with Machu Picchu Reservations are licensed by the Peruvian government, having received their qualifications from recognized universities or tourism institutes in Peru. This ensures you receive knowledgeable and professional guidance throughout your journey.
  • Cooking Team: The chef and kitchen assistants are dedicated to preparing the delicious meals you’ll enjoy on the Salkantay route. Trained to properly handle food in remote locations like the Salkantay Trek, these cooks are adept at crafting balanced and nutritious dishes to energize every adventurer. They are proficient in creating vegetarian or vegan options and will be attentive to any allergies or specific dietary restrictions you may have.
  • Kitchen Equipment and Utensils: We provide all the necessary kitchen equipment and utensils for preparing and serving meals. Our team ensures these are transported to each campsite so you can enjoy your food properly and in optimal conditions.
  • Muleteer and Horse Team: Our dedicated team of muleteers and horses plays a crucial role in ensuring a smooth trek. They are responsible for the careful transportation of all equipment and personal luggage to each campsite. This includes food, camping gear, sleeping bags, and your 7-kilo duffle bags containing personal items. They expertly organize and manage the luggage to ensure timely delivery at each camp, even preparing for adverse weather conditions like rain. With their hard work, you can focus on the journey while your belongings are safely and efficiently handled.
  • Convenient Hotel Pick-Up Service (4:30 – 5:00 am): Begin your tour with ease using our direct pick-up service from your Cusco hotel or Airbnb. Our team ensures a prompt and smooth start between 4:30 and 5:00 am, freeing you to focus entirely on the excitement of your adventure ahead.
  • Private Group Transportation: Our service includes private transportation for your group from Cusco to the starting point of the trek at Soraypampa. You’ll travel in a comfortable tourist vehicle from the city of Cusco directly to Soraypampa, where you’ll meet with the support team to begin your trekking adventure. This journey by car takes approximately 3 hours, offering a convenient and efficient way to start your trek with ease and comfort.
  • Meals and Refreshments: Our tour provides a comprehensive dining experience with 03 nutritious lunches, 03 delicious dinners, and 04 comforting breakfasts, ensuring you’re well-fueled for the trek. Additionally, we offer morning teas and snacks at the camps for that extra boost. Notably, the first breakfast is also included in your package. All these meals are thoughtfully prepared by our skilled kitchen team to offer you a blend of taste and energy essential for your journey.
  • Included Accommodations: Dive into nature’s embrace with our thoughtfully organized accommodations on the 4-day tour. Spend 1 nights in spacious panoramic cabins, a magical night under the stars in a glass dome, and conclude with a warm stay in a cozy hostel in Aguas Calientes. Our camp accommodations are spacious, comfortably fitting 4 people, but we typically assign them to just 2 for enhanced privacy and comfort. We’re flexible, however, and can accommodate groups of 3 or 4 wishing to stay together. Each site is equipped with comfortable mattresses and pillows for restorative sleep. Just remember to bring or rent a sleeping bag. Anticipate a serene and cozy retreat, deeply connected with the scenic wonders of your journey.
  • Hostel Stay in Aguas Calientes: Spend a rejuvenating night in a cozy hostel in Aguas Calientes, also known as Machu Picchu Town, the gateway to the iconic Inca citadel. Our selected hostels provide a range of comfortable rooms with private bathrooms, hot showers, and Wi-Fi access, catering to couples or groups with double and triple room options. This relaxing environment offers all the essential amenities to rest and refresh after your trek, setting you up perfectly for your visit to the magnificent Machu Picchu.
  • Machu Picchu Guided Tour: Your package includes a scheduled 3-hour visit to Machu Picchu. Within this, we offer an extensive 2.5-hour guided tour by one of our expert guides. Designed to enrich your understanding of this historic site, the tour adapts to your ticket’s entry time and circuit. After the engaging exploration, enjoy 30 minutes of personal time to absorb Machu Picchu’s beauty before continuing your journey.
  • Return Trip Options from Machu Picchu: Regardless of your choice between BY CAR AND BY TRAIN, we include the return trip after your Machu Picchu visit.
  • Train Option: Your train ticket is typically for 2:30 pm, 2:55 pm, or 3:20 pm, depending on availability. To catch the train, return to Aguas Calientes either by a one-hour walk or a $12 bus ride. Spend some time exploring the picturesque town, having lunch, and relaxing. Arrive at the train station 30 minutes before departure. The train journey takes around 1.5 hours to Ollantaytambo, where a Machu Picchu Reservations transfer with your name awaits. You’ll then travel by car back to Cusco for an additional 2 hours, with a drop-off at Plaza Regocijo, marking the end of your tour. You can expect to be back in Cusco around 6:30 pm
  • Car Option: If you choose the car option, start a 3-hour walk from Machu Picchu to the hydroelectric station, beginning no later than 11 am. This walk involves an initial 30-40-minute descent and approximately 1.5-2 hours of flat terrain along train tracks. Arrive at the hydroelectric station by 2:30 pm to catch the 3 pm car. The car journey lasts around 6-7 hours, returning you to Cusco at about 10 pm, with a final stop at Plaza Regocijo in Cusco’s center.
  • Vegetarian and Vegan Dining: We offer the choice of vegetarian and vegan meals, and we can also accommodate dietary restrictions such as gluten-free options. These changes do not incur any additional cost; just let us know when making your reservation.
  • Emergency Provisions: In anticipation of urgent scenarios, the facility ensures that during tours, the tour guide is equipped with an essential oxygen bottle and a comprehensively stocked first aid kit for immediate assistance.
  • Services Not Included in the Salkantay Trek Package and Optional Expenses
  • We detail below the services and expenses not included in the Salkantay Trek package. These are optional and can be paid directly on-site. Typically, the local community provides these services, and they are common across all companies operating the Salkantay Trek. Our goal is to offer clear and accurate information.
  • Entrance Ticket to Humantay Lagoon: On the first day of the trek, you will visit Humantay Lagoon. This site requires an entrance ticket, which is paid to the local government of Mollepata. The cost is 20 soles for foreigners (approximately 6 dollars) and 10 soles for Peruvians (approximately 3 dollars). Payment is made in soles and in cash at the entrance to the lagoon.
  • Sleeping Bag: If you do not have a suitable sleeping bag for the mountains, you can rent one from us. The sleeping bags we offer are specially designed to withstand the low temperatures of the Salkantay Trek, up to 10 degrees below zero. The rental cost is 10 dollars for the entire route.
  • Trekking Poles: You can rent a pair of professional trekking poles from us. These poles are adjustable according to the type of terrain and are very helpful, especially on steep and rough terrains. They optimize your performance, and the rental cost is 10 dollars for the entire trek.
  • Drinking Water for Bottles: We do not include refilling of water bottles, but we provide water for hot and cold drinks at each meal. For bottle water, you have two options: buy mineral water at small shops along the Salkantay Trail, with prices ranging from 5 to 12 soles per 2.5-liter bottle, or carry a filter or purification tablets for mountain water.
  • Internet Connection: There is no cell signal from 9 am on the first day until reaching the second camp. At this camp, you can access Wi-Fi for 10 soles. After the third day, you will generally have cell signal and internet access.
  • Showers and Toilets along the Trail: Toilets are available at the campsites at no cost, but locals may charge 1 sol for using theirs along the way. As for showers, the second camp offers hot showers for 10 soles, while cold showers are free and use the hot showers at the Aguas Calientes hostel on day 03. Generally, there are no showers available at the first camp due to the low temperatures.
  • Tips: Tips are optional. Feel free to tip or not, but in this tourism service industry, the individuals involved in the course of this trek expect a tip, which occurs not only in our company but also in all trekking companies in Cusco. Everyone working at Machu Picchu Reservations is paid fairly for the work they perform; we even pay much more than companies that charge very high costs for the same trek. Feel free to give a tip or not, but we want to clarify that it is optional, not mandatory.
  • We do not include travel insurance. We suggest acquiring one in your country, as it can be difficult to obtain travel insurance in Peru.

Itinerary

  • The Salkantay trek to Machu Picchu begins in Cusco with hotel pickups scheduled between 4:30 and 5:00 AM. During this period, the guide will gather participants from their respective hotels in Cusco. After assembling the group, you will depart from Cusco around 5:15 AM, heading towards the town of Mollepata by car, a journey of approximately 2 hours. Upon arrival in Mollepata, you’ll enjoy a hearty breakfast at one of the local restaurants, included in the tour. Typically, the stay in Mollepata, including breakfast and last-minute supplies shopping, lasts about an hour.
  • Post breakfast, the journey continues by car towards Soraypampa for another hour. Once at Soraypampa, you will meet the team of muleteers and horses, marking the start of the Salkantay trek. Before beginning the hike, all equipment and duffle bags will be handed over to the muleteers and horses. The trek from Soraypampa to Humantay Lagoon starts at an elevation of 3,900 meters and ascends to 4,200 meters, the location of the lagoon. The initial part of the trek involves a gradual ascent for about an hour, followed by a steeper climb for the last hour. The total hike to the lagoon takes approximately 2 hours.
  • Upon reaching Humantay Lagoon, you’ll have free time to enjoy the breathtaking views, take photos, and listen to the guide’s insights. The stay at the lagoon typically lasts between 1 to 1.5 hours, weather permitting. After visiting the lagoon, the descent begins towards the Quiswarniyoc campsite. This part of the trek involves a 1-hour downhill walk followed by a 45-minute nearly flat trek.
  • Upon arriving at the Quiswarniyoc campsite, usually around 2:00 PM, you will be treated to a delicious lunch prepared by the cooking team. After lunch, the guide will show you to your respective sleeping quarters for some well-deserved rest. The afternoon, post-lunch, is free of scheduled hikes, allowing you to take short walks and explore the vast Quiswarniyoc area, enjoying the imposing views of Salkantay, which looms directly in front of the campsite. Around 6:00 PM, a warm dinner will be served. After dinner, you will receive important information about Day 02 of the trek, which involves reaching the highest point of the entire route.

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SUMMARY FOR DAY 01:

  • Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
  • Accommodation: Mountain Sky Hut
  • Difficulty Level: Moderate
  • Hiking Distance: 10 kilometers (approximately 6 miles)
  • Estimated Trekking Duration: 5 to 6 hours
  • Campsite Elevation: 4,000 meters above sea level
  • Weather Forecast: Expect cold and windy nights during the dry season (May to August), with temperatures potentially dropping to -5 degrees Celsius.
  • Additional Note: This day serves as a period of training and preparation. It is ideal for acclimatizing in anticipation of Day 02, which poses the most significant challenge of the entire trek.

Early Morning Awakening:

  • The day begins at 5 AM with a coca leaf tea known as “te despierto,” served by the kitchen team to assist with acclimatization to the altitude.
  • After waking, you have about 30 minutes to get ready and pack for the day.

Breakfast:

  • Breakfast is typically served at 5:30 AM.
  • After enjoying your meal, there’s a brief period for last-minute backpack checks and bathroom use before starting the hike to the highest point of the Salkantay trek.

Ascent to Salkantay Pass:

  • The trek from Quiswarniyoc to the trek’s highest point, the Salkantay Pass at 4700 meters above sea level, begins around 6 AM.
  • The uphill walk from the camp to the pass takes between 3 to 3.5 hours at a steady pace, with extended breaks every hour for rest and energy replenishment.
  • The ascent is manageable with proper acclimatization; the main challenge lies in adapting to the altitude.

Time at Salkantay Pass:

  • Upon reaching the summit, you’ll have time to soak in the stunning views, photograph the mountains, and feel the proximity to Salkantay Mountain.
  • The guide will often provide insights into the area and may involve you in a local ritual to express gratitude to the Apus, the mountain gods in local beliefs.
  • You’ll spend about 30 to 45 minutes at the peak.

Descent to Lunch Spot:

  • The descent starts with a 2-hour trek from the Salkantay Pass to the lunch spot at Wayracmachay.
  • Here, the kitchen team awaits with a nutritious lunch.

Post-Lunch Rest and Second Descent:

  • After lunch, there’s a short time for rest, weather permitting.
  • The final descent segment for the day is from the lunch spot to the second camp at Chawllay.
  • This descent, lasting between 2.5 to 3 hours, is slightly steep but offers incredible views as you transition from the Andes to the Amazon region.

Arrival at Chawllay:

  • Upon arrival at Chawllay, the second campsite at 2900 meters, the guide will show you to your accommodations for the night.
  • The day concludes with a delicious dinner prepared by the cooking team.
  • This itinerary for Day 02 of the hike is crafted to balance challenging ascents and descents with ample opportunities to appreciate the natural beauty and cultural significance of the Salkantay region.

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SUMMARY FOR DAY 02

  • Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  • Accommodation: Mountain Sky Hut
  • Difficulty Level: Challenging
  • Maximum Altitude: 4,700 meters at Salkantay Pass
  • Hiking Distance: 22 kilometers (approximately 14 miles)
  • Estimated Trekking Duration: 9 to 10 hours
  • Camping Altitude: 2,900 meters
  • Weather Forecast: Warm and hot at lower elevations.
  • Additional Note: Day 02 is the most difficult day of the entire trek. However, you will have the entire day to complete it and reach Campsite 02. It is also the most beautiful day due to the stunning views of the mountains and Salkantay.

Morning Start:

  • The day begins with an invigorating wake-up tea at 5:30 AM, courtesy of our kitchen team, followed by time for packing and preparing for the day’s adventure.
  • A hearty breakfast is served at 6:00 AM to fuel you for the trek ahead.

Trek from Chawllay to Lucmabamba:

  • The hike starts at about 6:30 AM from Chawllay, leading towards our third campsite at Lucmabamba.
  • This 5-hour journey mainly traverses flat terrain through the Santa Teresa Valley. Along the way, enjoy the rich biodiversity of the area, ending with an enriching coffee tour in Lucmabamba.

Coffee Tour Experience:

  • In Lucmabamba, immerse yourself in a coffee tour hosted by a local family. Here, you’ll taste the exquisite Santa Teresa coffee and delve into the coffee production process unique to this region.

Lunch at Lucmabamba:

  • Post the coffee tour, return to the campsite for a delectable lunch, freshly prepared by our talented cooking team.

After Lunch: Journey to Aguas Calientes:

  • Post-lunch, embark on a 1.5-hour car ride from Lucmabamba to Hydroelectrica.
  • Upon arrival at Hydroelectrica, prepare for the final 3-hour trek to Aguas Calientes. This scenic walk, alongside the railway line, is facilitated by a pedestrian path, making the journey smoother.
  • Once in Aguas Calientes, check into your hotel where you can relax, shower, and unwind before dinner.
  • Enjoy a delightful dinner at 7 PM in a local Aguas Calientes restaurant, followed by finalizing plans for the next day’s visit to Machu Picchu.

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SUMMARY FOR DAY 03:

  • Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  • Accommodation: Overnight hotel stay in Aguas Calientes
  • Difficulty Level: Extended day hike
  • Hiking Distance: Approximately 25 kilometers (about 15 miles)
  • Estimated Trekking Duration: 9 to 10 hours
  • Altitude of Aguas Calientes Base Town: 2,000 meters (6,562 feet)
  • Weather Forecast: Expect warm, hot, and tropical climate conditions
  • Additional Note: On the third day, you’ll experience a 5-hour morning hike, a refreshing lunch break, a 1.5-hour car ride, and a 3-hour afternoon walk. The day concludes with a comfortable stay at a hotel in Aguas Calientes, gearing you up for the Machu Picchu adventure ahead.

The final day of our tour is a thrilling experience:

  • visiting Machu Picchu, a highly anticipated highlight. We rise at dawn, around 4 a.m., to enjoy breakfast at the hotel. Around 4:30 am, we begin our hike towards the Inca citadel of Machu Picchu. The hike from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu takes about 1.5 hours, blending 30 minutes of a flat trail with an hour’s ascent through historic stone steps leading directly to Machu Picchu’s main entrance.

Alternative Route: Bus to Machu Picchu

  • For those preferring a less strenuous option, there’s an alternative to take a bus from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu. This convenient option can be booked the night before or on the morning itself. The first buses from Aguas Calientes depart at 5:30 am and cost $12 per trip, taking approximately 25 minutes.

Arrival and Entry Procedures

  • The goal is to arrive at the Machu Picchu gate by 6:00 am, whether on foot or by bus. At the main control, you must show your Machu Picchu tickets and original passports. If you booked as a student, you also need to present your original student ID.

Machu Picchu Guided Tour

  • After passing through the controls, we head to the upper part of Machu Picchu for iconic photo opportunities. You’ll have time to capture images and enjoy the breathtaking views. Then, our expert Machu Picchu guide will lead a 2.5-hour tour through the Inca citadel. During this tour, you’ll discover all the secrets and history that make Machu Picchu a world wonder.

Independent Exploration Time

  • Following the guided tour at Machu Picchu, you will have around 30 minutes of free time to continue exploring the circuit on your own. Remember, the maximum allowed visiting time at Machu Picchu is 3 hours according to park regulations.

Post-Visit Itineraries

  • After visiting Machu Picchu, the journey continues, but at this point, each group member will follow their own itinerary based on the options they chose at the time of booking. Those who have reserved tickets for Waynapicchu or Machu Picchu Mountain will receive guidance from our guide to access the entry points of these mountains. It’s important to remember that these tickets must be reserved in advance through Machu Picchu Reservations.

After Machu Picchu Return Options to Cusco

  • Car Return Option: If you choose the car return option, you must start a roughly 3-hour hike from Machu Picchu to Hydroelectric. Be at Hydroelectric by 2:30 pm to take the car that will transport you from Hydroelectric to Cusco. This trip takes about 6 hours, arriving in Cusco around 10 pm, with the final stop at Plaza Regocijo in the center of Cusco city. This return option does not provide enough time for additional hikes to Waynapicchu or Machu Picchu Mountain, as they require about 3 extra hours. To catch the car at 2:30 pm at Hydroelectric, it’s recommended to leave Machu Picchu no later than 11:30 am.
  • Train Return Option: If you opt for the train return, you’ll need to go back to the town of Aguas Calientes, which can be done by walking for approximately 1.5 hours or taking a 25-minute bus ride for $12. Once in Aguas Calientes, you’ll have time to explore the town and perhaps have lunch, as the last lunch is not included in the tour. Then, head to the train station to catch the 2:30 or 3:30 pm train to Ollantaytambo, a journey of about 1.5 hours. In Ollantaytambo, our transfer service will be waiting to take you back to Cusco by car, a trip of approximately two hours, arriving in Cusco around 6:30 pm. The train option allows for more time at Machu Picchu and is sufficient for the optional mountain hikes. It is faster and more comfortable, making the return to Cusco less tiring.

IMPORTANT NOTE: ITINERARY FOR THE LAST DAY AT MACHU PICCHU

  • The itinerary for the final day at Machu Picchu is subject to the availability of tickets for Machu Picchu. The proposed schedule works seamlessly with tickets for Machu Picchu for Circuit 02, available for entry times at 6, 7, or 8 am – check availability at www.machupicchu.gob.pe
  • In the event that tickets for Circuit 02 are not available for the 6, 7, or 8 am entry times at the time of your trek reservation, the itinerary will require adjustments. For alternative itinerary options in such cases, especially if there are no morning entry times available or if Circuit 02 tickets are fully booked, please refer to the following link: Alternative Itinerary Options for Machu Picchu Visit.
  • This link will guide you through the possible alternatives, ensuring you still have a fulfilling experience at Machu Picchu despite the changes in schedule or circuit availability.

Duración

Multi day

Lenguajes

English
Espanol

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SALKANTAY TREK 4 DAYS TO MACHU PICCHU

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