4-Day Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu Classic
Traverse the Majestic Andean Paths and Uncover the Mysteries of Machu Picchu
Overview
4-Day Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu Classic Overview
Discover the spellbinding beauty of the Peruvian Andes on the 4-day Salkantay Trek, a journey that leads you to the iconic Machu Picchu. This trek is a perfect blend of natural splendor and cultural immersion, taking you through some of the most stunning landscapes in Peru. From the majestic Salkantay Mountain, named after one of the most sacred peaks in Incan mythology, to the serene Humantay Lake, each step unveils breathtaking vistas and a rich tapestry of flora and fauna.
Experience the thrill of adventure as you hike through diverse ecosystems, ranging from snow-capped mountains to lush rainforests. The Salkantay Trek is not just a path but a gateway to explore the hidden wonders of the ancient Incan world. Ideal for those seeking both a physical challenge and a cultural journey, this trek offers an unforgettable experience, culminating in the awe-inspiring Machu Picchu, a testament to Incan ingenuity and spirit.
| Departure & Return Location | Your Hotel in Cusco |
| Departure Time | 4:30 AM |
| Estimated Return Time | 7:00 PM – 8:00 PM |
| Guide Languages Available | Guides fluent in English and Spanish |
| Key Attractions | Humantay Lake, Salkantay Pass, Cloud Forests, Coffee Plantations, Aguas Calientes, Machu Picchu |
Tour Itinerary
Explore our expertly designed itinerary below, crafted to showcase breathtaking views and provide unique adventures every step of the way.
Day 1: Cusco to Salkantaypampa via Mollepata and Humantay Lake – Embarking on the Trail
Our exhilarating trek begins with an early morning pickup from your hotel at 4:30 am. We embark on a 3-hour drive towards Anta-Mollepata, during which you’ll be treated to the awe-inspiring sight of the snowcapped Salkantay and Veronica mountains, the sacred guardians in Incan lore. The journey also offers a panoramic view of the vibrant landscapes encompassing both the upper and lower valleys.
Upon arriving in Mollepata, we take a brief halt where you have the opportunity to enjoy breakfast at your leisure (not included in the trek). This stop also allows a moment of rest and preparation for the upcoming hike. After breakfast, we continue our drive to Soraypampa, the starting point of our trek.
In Soraypampa, we meet our support staff, including the cook who will accompany us on our journey. Here, we get ready for the first hike of our trek, setting out towards the magnificent Humantay Lake (4200 m.a.s.l). The 3-hour round trip hike to the lake offers an awe-inspiring view of the Humantay glacier, providing an hour of peaceful exploration and admiration of the natural beauty.
After the visit to Humantay Lake, we head back to Soraypampa where a hearty lunch awaits us, freshly prepared by our cook. Post lunch, we continue our hike towards Salkantaypampa, our campsite for the night. This location, encircled by glaciers, offers a serene atmosphere and a dark sky, perfect for appreciating the stunning constellations and the splendor of the night sky.
Accommodation: Camping
Meals: Lunch and Dinner
Hiking: Approx. 6 hours, 10 km
Day 2: Soraypampa to Ccollpampa via Salkantay Pass and Huayramachay
The second day starts with a coca tea wake-up call at 5:00 am. After breakfast and packing up, we embark on the hike to the highest point of the Salkantay trail (4620 masl – 15,255 ft). The 3-hour ascent through a rocky valley offers a chance to witness the grandeur of Salkantay peak, along with possible sightings of chinchillas. Reaching the top, we are rewarded with awe-inspiring views of the Salkantay, Humantay, and Pumasillo peaks.
The descent from the Salkantay Pass takes us on a 3-hour journey along a serpentine trail to Huayracmachay, our lunch spot. The afternoon trek leads us through the enchanting upper part of the rainforest or “cloud forest.” Over the next 3 hours, covering 9 km to Challway Village (2900 masl – 9,514 ft), we immerse ourselves in a lush landscape adorned with colorful orchids and native flora, basking in the warm and pleasant climate of the area.
Accommodation: Camping
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Hiking: Approx. 6 hours, 12 km
Day 3: Collpapampa to Aguas Calientes via Lucmabamba
The day commences with an early wake-up call at around 5:30 am, accompanied by a warm serving of coca tea. After breakfast, we embark on our hike towards La Playa, meandering through the lush jungle and following the Salkantay River’s bank. This gradual trail leads us through a thick rainforest, offering opportunities to enjoy local fruit and vegetables such as passion fruit, banana, coffee, avocado, mango, orange, and papaya from several family hamlets along the route. Keep an eye out for the “Cock of the Rocks,” Peru’s national bird, known for its vivid plumage and unique appearance.
This day’s hike covers a distance of 16 km and takes approximately 7 hours to reach Lucmabamba, our lunch spot. In Lucmabamba, a small town surrounded by coffee trees, we’ll have the chance to taste fresh coffee and enjoy basic facilities including toilets, electricity, shopping, and souvenirs. Post-lunch, we take a local van for an hour’s ride to Hydroelectric and then board a train to Aguas Calientes, the town at the foot of Machu Picchu. Once in Aguas Calientes, we check into our hotel, enjoy a dinner out, and rest overnight in preparation for the final day of our trek.
Accommodation: Hotel in Aguas Calientes
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Hiking: Approx. 7 hours, 16 km
Day 4: Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu and Return to Cusco
On this magical fourth day, we rise early for the bus journey to Machu Picchu. Upon arrival at the entrance, we present our passports and start our exploration of this ancient Inca city. The hike to the guardhouse offers a classic viewpoint for those iconic postcard pictures of Machu Picchu. Following this, we embark on Circuit 2 for a comprehensive 2-hour guided tour, revealing the historical and cultural significance of the site.
For those who have booked in advance, the option to hike Huayna Picchu after the tour is available (Note: This requires a separate entrance ticket). Post exploration, we return to Aguas Calientes and board a train back to Ollantaytambo. From Ollantaytambo, a bus takes us back to Cusco, concluding our memorable trek. We aim to have you back at your hotel in Cusco by approximately 7:30 pm, carrying with you a treasure trove of memories from this incredible journey.
Accommodation: N/A
Meals: Breakfast
Return to Cusco: Train to Ollantaytambo, then bus to Cusco
Tour Highlights
4-Day Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu Classic Highlights
- Humantay Lake Hike: Experience the breathtaking beauty of the turquoise Humantay Lake, nestled at the base of the Humantay glacier. This serene spot is perfect for photography and reflection.
- Camping at Salkantaypampa: Spend a night at Salkantaypampa, a campsite surrounded by majestic glaciers. This location is ideal for stargazing and experiencing the tranquility of the Andean night sky.
- Salkantay Pass Ascent: Challenge yourself with the hike to the Salkantay Pass, the highest point of the trail, where you’ll be rewarded with panoramic views of the imposing snowy peaks of Salkantay, Humantay, and Pumasillo.
- Cloud Forest Exploration: Descend into the lush cloud forest, a unique ecosystem adorned with colorful orchids and native plants. This area is known for its warm and pleasant climate.
- Journey through the Jungle: Traverse through a thick jungle along the Salkantay River, enjoying the local flora and fauna, including a chance to spot the vibrant “Cock of the Rocks,” Peru’s national bird.
- Cultural Interaction at Lucmabamba: Savor the fresh coffee and local fruits at Lucmabamba, a quaint town surrounded by coffee plantations, and interact with the local community.
- Train Ride to Aguas Calientes: Board a scenic train to Aguas Calientes, the gateway town to Machu Picchu, offering picturesque views along the route.
- Exploration of Machu Picchu: Visit the awe-inspiring Inca citadel of Machu Picchu, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and immerse yourself in the rich history and architecture of the Incas during a comprehensive guided tour.
Inclusions & Exclusions
Detailing Every Aspect of Your Travel Experience: What’s Included and What’s Not
Standard Inclusions
All package options include the following:
- Bilingual, English-speaking tour guide.
- Pre-departure briefing at your hotel/office 1 or 2 days before the trek.
- Hotel pick-up and transportation to the trailhead.
- 4-person tent for every 2 people.
- Inflatable mattress.
- Kitchen tent, dining tent with tables and chairs.
- Toilet tent.
- Professional chef and assistant chef.
- Daily morning boiled and cold water for water bottle refills.
- Horses to carry all equipment (food, tents, chairs, table, etc.).
- Horse to transport 7 kg of your personal gear.
- Muleteers to manage pack animals.
- Duffel bag for your personal gear.
- 3 breakfasts, 3 lunches, and 3 dinners.
- Vegetarian and gluten-free options at no extra cost.
- Provision of snacks during the trek.
- Emergency oxygen bottle and medical kit.
- All necessary trekking permits.
- Train tickets from Hydroelectric to Aguas Calientes.
- Train tickets from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo.
- 1-night hotel stay in Aguas Calientes (twin bedroom with private facilities).
- Entry ticket to Machu Picchu.
- Bus ticket from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu (round trip).
- Expedition Train ticket between Aguas Calientes and Ollantaytambo.
- Private van transportation from Ollantaytambo to your Cusco hotel.
Exclusions:
Not included in our standard tour packages. Consider additional costs. Deluxe packages may cover some exclusions, as specified in the Additional Inclusions section.
- Hotel stay in Cusco before and after the trek.
- Sleeping bag (available for rent).
- Trekking poles (available for rent).
- Breakfast on day 1 and lunch on the last day.
- Huayna Picchu/Machu Picchu mountain ticket (US$ 80 extra per person).
- Tips for tour guides, chefs, and support staff are not included and are at your discretion.
Additional Inclusions
Deluxe Packages Only
Elevate your travel experience with our bespoke Deluxe Package, meticulously designed to offer an array of premium amenities and services.
Deluxe Packages Include:
- Emergency Horse & Handler: An extra horse and a trained handler provide added safety on the trail.
- 3-Star Aguas Calientes Hotel: Rest and recharge in a carefully selected 3-star hotel.
- North Face Four-Season Tents: State-of-the-art, weather-resistant tents for ultimate outdoor comfort.
- Mountain Climbing Permits: Choose between Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain for breathtaking panoramic views.
- Vistadome First-Class Train: Enjoy scenic travel from Aguas Calientes with panoramic windows offering spectacular views.
- Private Van to Cusco: Enjoy a direct, comfortable transfer to Cusco post-trek.
- Gourmet Lunch: Indulge in a gourmet dining experience at either Machu Picchu or Aguas Calientes.
- Sleeping Bag: Sleep well with one premium sleeping bag per person.
- Walking Sticks: 01 pair per person for added stability.
- Private Transportation: Transportation exclusively for your group.
- Personal Duffel Bag: Use a durable duffel bag to conveniently carry your personal gear, including the sleeping bag and self-inflating pads.
- Dedicated Tour Guide: Get personalized insights and guidance from an expert tour guide throughout your journey.
- Fair Compensation: We ensure fair compensation for all our dedicated team members.
Prices
Discover our diverse tour offerings, catering to various interests and providing unforgettable experiences for every traveler.
Standard Large Group
Group Size: 2 Min – 16ppl Max
USD
Per Person
Join a diverse group of travelers for an economical shared experience.
Standard Small Group
Group Size: 2 Min – 8ppl Max
USD
Per Person
Enjoy a more intimate setting, ideal for closer interactions and bonding.
Private Group
Group Size: Customizable
USD
Per Person
Curate your journey with exclusivity tailored to your group’s preferences.
Deluxe Private Group
Group Size: Customizable
USD
Per Person
Indulge in luxury, enhancing every aspect of your tour for a memorable experience.
Solo Traveler
Group Size: 1 person
USD
Per Person
Embrace the freedom of a solo adventure, with options to mingle or stay independent.
Deluxe Solo Traveler
Group Size: 1 person
USD
Per Person
Elevate your solo journey with added luxury and attentive service.
Special Discounts
- Adult (12+ Years): Standard rates apply for travelers over 12 years old.
- Student (-25 Years with Student Card): Save USD 20 with a valid Student Card for those younger than 25 years old.
- Child (3 – 11 Years): Save USD 30 for children between 3 and 11 years old.
- Infant (0 – 2 Years): Infants younger than 2 years old are free (must ride on the adult’s lap; for a separate seat, add them as a child).
- Group Discount: Automatically applied during online booking.
- Save USD 10/person for groups of 5-7 people.
- Save USD 15/person for groups of 8-10 people.
- Save USD 20/person for groups of 11+ people.
*Please note that the applicable age is considered at the time of completion of the trip.
Payment Terms & Cancellation Policy
Kindly take a moment to read our Payment Terms & Cancellation Policy before booking. Happy adventuring!
Payment Terms
Beginning Your Adventure – Booking Confirmation and Deposit
Your journey starts with a commitment: a 30% deposit of the total tour cost. This initial investment is pivotal in activating the extensive preparatory process, ensuring every aspect of your tour is curated to perfection.
Final Payment: The Last Step Before Your Journey Begins
The remaining 70% of the tour cost is due no later than 48 hours before the commencement of your tour. This timely payment is critical to finalize all logistical arrangements, guaranteeing a hassle-free start to your adventure.
Expansive Payment Options for Ease and Flexibility
In line with our commitment to your convenience, Huaynas Expeditions accepts a variety of payment methods, including bank transfers, credit cards, and PayPal. Please be aware that additional fees may apply depending on the payment method selected. Detailed payment procedures and potential fees can be found on our dedicated payment page.
Implications of Late Payments – Protecting Your Reservation
Adherence to the payment schedule is crucial. Late payments can unfortunately lead to the cancellation of your reservation, with the deposit being retained as a non-refundable fee. We urge you to maintain timely payments to safeguard your tour plans.
Policy for Last-Minute Adventurers
For those inspired to join this tour on short notice, namely less than 15 days before departure, full payment is required at the time of booking. This ensures that we can expedite all necessary preparations for your inclusion.
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation Terms for Clients
We recognize that life is ever-changing. However, due to the elaborate planning and expenses involved in preparing for this tour, we maintain a strict no-refund policy after booking confirmation. This underscores the importance of obtaining comprehensive travel insurance, which can offer protection against unforeseen cancellations.
Navigating Unpredictable Circumstances – Force Majeure
In extraordinary situations beyond our control, such as natural disasters or political upheavals, Huaynas Expeditions will strive to offer alternative arrangements. This may include rescheduling your trip or issuing a credit for future travel, based on current availability and discretion.
Navigating Through Force Majeure
In the event of extraordinary and uncontrollable circumstances, such as natural disasters or significant political unrest, Huaynas Expeditions adopts a flexible approach. We prioritize your safety and satisfaction, offering to reschedule your trip or provide a credit for future travel, subject to availability.
Emphasizing the Need for Comprehensive Travel Insurance
To cover unexpected events, including trip disruptions and medical emergencies, we cannot stress enough the importance of securing comprehensive travel insurance. It’s your safety net, ensuring peace of mind throughout your journey. Please note, Huaynas Expeditions does not bear responsibility for costs arising from incidents not covered by your travel insurance.
Looking for the Perfect Tour?
If our standard tours don’t match your dream, let Huaynas Expeditions create one that does. Start planning your unique adventure now.
What to Pack
Your Essential Packing Guide for a Hassle-Free Adventure
Packing List
Prepare for an unforgettable journey with our essential packing guide. Here’s what you need to bring:
- Original passport & student ID (if applicable).
- Light day pack with clothes for varied temperatures.
- Rain gear or poncho.
- Waterproof trekking boots & extra socks.
- Warm clothing, including jacket, fleece, gloves, scarf, beanie, and thermals for sleeping.
- Sleeping bag.
- Torch/flashlight & spare batteries.
- Camera, film & batteries.
- Sunblock & after-sun hydrating cream.
- Insect repellent (20% DEET minimum, no malaria risk reported).
- Toilet paper.
- Snacks (biscuits, energy bars, chocolate, fruits, etc.).
- Reusable canteen & water for the first morning.
- Personal medical kit (special medications, paracetamol, blister treatment, etc.).
- Small towel/sarong.
- Cash for snacks, tips & souvenirs.
- Walking sticks/poles.
Note:
This list is a general guideline. Adjustments may be necessary based on personal preferences and the season of travel. Always check the weather forecast before your trip and feel free to reach out to us for any specific advice or requirements.
Provided Duffle Bag and Packing Tips
Pack Wisely with Our Essential Packing Tips
We’ll provide a returnable duffle bag during the pre-trek briefing, held 1-2 nights before your tour. Familiarize yourself with the bag, pack efficiently, and get essential trek details, safety guidelines, and updates. It’s a great chance to ask questions, meet fellow trekkers, and prepare for your adventure.
Our Packing Tips:
- Adhere to the 7 kg weight limit: Keep the weight of your personal items in the duffle bag within the 7 kg limit to maintain a manageable load for the horses.
- Place non-essential items in the duffle bag: Store items you won’t need during the day, like extra clothes, toiletries, and sleeping bags, in the duffle bag to lighten your day pack.
- Label your duffle bag: Add a luggage tag or other identification to your duffle bag to prevent mix-ups with other trekkers’ bags.
- Keep valuables in your day pack: Store passports, cameras, cash, and other valuable items in your day pack for added security and easy access.
Frequently Asked Questions
Got questions? We’ve got answers! Dive into our FAQ section for detailed responses to common queries. If you don’t find what you’re looking for, our team is just a click away to assist you.
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