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unforgettable adventure with our 4-Day Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu, ideal for those looking to capture the essence of the Salkantay experience within a shorter period. This meticulously crafted trek immerses you in the breathtaking scenery of the Salkantay mountains and glaciers, all within four dynamic days.
Day 1 kicks off your journey with the stunning Humantay Lagoon, followed by a peaceful night’s stay at the tranquil Quiswarniyoc private camp. On Day 2, you’ll ascend to the impressive Salkantay Pass at 4,700 meters, marking the highest point of your trek before descending to the welcoming Chawllay campsite. Day 3 takes you through the enchanting Santa Teresa Valley, rich in local agriculture, culminating in your arrival in Aguas Calientes by evening. This sets the stage for the grand finale on Day 4, where you’ll explore the iconic Machu Picchu.
The 4-Day Salkantay Trek is designed for those who want a more efficient journey compared to the traditional 5-day trek. While the 5-day option allows for leisurely activities such as soaking in hot springs and trekking to the Llactapata viewpoint, the 4-day trek focuses on maximizing your time to ensure a timely arrival at Machu Picchu. This makes it perfect for travelers with limited time who still want to experience the natural splendor and cultural richness of the Salkantay trail and the magnificent Machu Picchu.
Included in the package is a ticket to Machu Picchu, which we purchase on your behalf. Typically, our guided tours include circuits 1, 2, or 3. To secure a spot on these popular circuits, it’s essential to book at least three months in advance. If these circuits are unavailable, alternatives include circuits 4 or 5.
The primary distinction between the circuits lies in their access points to Machu Picchu. Circuits 1, 2, and 3 provide entry from the upper sections of the site, offering panoramic views and prime photo opportunities of Machu Picchu. In contrast, circuits 4 and 5 access the lower areas, which do not offer the classic vistas.
Please note that no single circuit covers the entire Inca citadel. However, each circuit includes a guided tour lasting between 2 to 2.5 hours with an expert guide, ensuring a thorough and educational experience at Machu Picchu.
If you’re booking last minute and the preferred circuits are unavailable, your final option is to purchase tickets to reach the town of Aguas Calientes. For more information, please refer to the provided link.
Join us for the 4-Day Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu and immerse yourself in one of the most spectacular trekking experiences Peru has to offer!
Max. 10 People
Moderate
Cusco - Peru
Hiking
4 B, 3 D, 3 L
Daily departures
Start of the Trek:
Your Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu commences in Cusco with hotel pickups arranged between 4:30 and 5:00 AM. During this time, the guide will assemble all participants from their respective accommodations in Cusco. Once the group is gathered, departure from Cusco is scheduled for approximately 5:15 AM, heading towards the town of Mollepata by car—a journey lasting around 2 hours. Upon reaching Mollepata, you’ll enjoy a hearty breakfast at a local restaurant, which is included in the tour package. Typically, the stay in Mollepata, including breakfast and last-minute supply shopping, takes about an hour.
Journey to Soraypampa:
After breakfast, the trip continues by car to Soraypampa, taking another hour. Upon arrival in Soraypampa, you will meet the team of muleteers and horses, signaling the official start of the Salkantay trek. Before embarking on the hike, all your equipment and duffle bags will be handed over to the muleteers and horses. The trek from Soraypampa to Humantay Lagoon begins at an elevation of 3,900 meters and ascends to 4,200 meters, where the lagoon is located. The initial part of the hike involves a steady ascent for about an hour, followed by a steeper climb for the final hour, totaling approximately 2 hours of hiking to reach the lagoon.
At Humantay Lagoon:
Upon arrival at Humantay Lagoon, you’ll have free time to soak in the stunning views, capture photographs, and listen to the guide’s insights. The visit to the lagoon typically lasts between 1 to 1.5 hours, depending on weather conditions. After enjoying the lagoon, the descent towards the Quiswarniyoc campsite begins. This descent includes a 1-hour downhill walk followed by a nearly flat trek lasting about 45 minutes.
Arrival at Quiswarniyoc Campsite:
You will arrive at the Quiswarniyoc campsite around 2:00 PM, where a delicious lunch prepared by the cooking team awaits you. After lunch, the guide will lead you to your sleeping quarters for some well-deserved rest. The afternoon is free from scheduled hikes, allowing you to take short walks and explore the expansive Quiswarniyoc area, enjoying the impressive views of Salkantay Mountain that towers directly in front of the campsite. Dinner will be served around 6:00 PM, followed by an informational session about Day 2 of the trek, which involves reaching the trek’s highest point.
SUMMARY FOR DAY 1:
Early Morning Start:
The day begins at 5:00 AM with a traditional coca leaf tea known as “te despierto,” served by the kitchen team to help acclimate to the altitude. After waking, you’ll have approximately 30 minutes to get ready and pack for the day’s activities.
Breakfast:
Breakfast is typically served at 5:30 AM. Following your meal, there is a brief period for last-minute backpack checks and bathroom use before commencing the hike to the trek’s highest point.
Ascent to Salkantay Pass:
The hike from Quiswarniyoc to the Salkantay Pass, the trek’s highest point at 4,700 meters above sea level, starts around 6:00 AM. The uphill journey 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 to replenish energy. The ascent is manageable with proper acclimatization, with the main challenge being the altitude adjustment.
Time at Salkantay Pass:
Upon reaching the summit, you’ll have time to admire the breathtaking views, take photographs of the surrounding mountains, and experience the closeness to Salkantay Mountain. The guide may provide insights into the area and involve you in a local ritual to express gratitude to the Apus, the mountain deities in local beliefs. You’ll spend about 30 to 45 minutes at the peak.
Descent to Lunch Spot:
The descent begins with a 2-hour trek from the Salkantay Pass to the lunch spot at Wayracmachay, where the kitchen team will serve a nutritious lunch.
Post-Lunch Rest and Second Descent:
After lunch, there is a short rest period, weather permitting. The final segment of the day’s trek involves descending from the lunch spot to the second camp at Chawllay, lasting between 2.5 to 3 hours. This descent is slightly steep but offers incredible views as you transition from the Andes to the Amazon region.
Arrival at Chawllay:
Upon arriving at Chawllay, the second campsite at 2,900 meters, the guide will lead you to your accommodations for the night. The day concludes with a delicious dinner prepared by the cooking team.
SUMMARY FOR DAY 2:
Morning Start:
The day begins with an energizing wake-up tea at 5:30 AM, courtesy of the kitchen team, followed by time to pack and prepare for the day’s activities. A hearty breakfast is served at 6:00 AM to fuel you for the upcoming trek.
Trek from Chawllay to Lucmabamba:
The hike starts around 6:30 AM from Chawllay, leading towards the third campsite at Lucmabamba. This 5-hour journey primarily traverses flat terrain through the Santa Teresa Valley, allowing you to enjoy the region’s rich biodiversity. The trek concludes with an enriching coffee tour in Lucmabamba.
Coffee Tour Experience:
In Lucmabamba, you’ll participate in a coffee tour hosted by a local family. During this experience, you’ll taste the exquisite Santa Teresa coffee and learn about the unique coffee production processes specific to this region.
Lunch at Lucmabamba:
After the coffee tour, you’ll return to the campsite for a delicious lunch freshly prepared by our skilled 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 more comfortable. Once in Aguas Calientes, check into your hotel where you can relax, shower, and unwind before dinner. Enjoy a delightful dinner at 7:00 PM in a local Aguas Calientes restaurant, followed by finalizing plans for the next day’s visit to Machu Picchu.
SUMMARY FOR DAY 3:
Morning Exploration:
The final day of the tour is an exhilarating experience centered around visiting Machu Picchu, the highly anticipated highlight. The day begins at dawn, around 4:00 AM, with breakfast at the hotel. At approximately 4:30 AM, you’ll start your hike towards the Inca citadel of Machu Picchu. The trek from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu takes about 1.5 hours, combining 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 who prefer a less strenuous option, there is 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 of the trek. 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 gate, you must present your Machu Picchu tickets and original passports. If you booked as a student, you will also need to present your original student ID.
Machu Picchu Guided Tour:
After passing through the entry controls, you’ll proceed to the upper part of Machu Picchu for iconic photo opportunities. You’ll have time to take pictures and enjoy the breathtaking views. Subsequently, our expert Machu Picchu guide will lead a 2.5-hour tour through the Inca citadel, uncovering the secrets and history that make Machu Picchu a world-renowned wonder.
Independent Exploration Time:
Following the guided tour, you’ll have approximately 30 minutes of free time to continue exploring the site on your own. Please remember that the maximum allowed visiting time at Machu Picchu is 3 hours, according to park regulations.
Post-Visit Itineraries:
After your visit to Machu Picchu, the journey continues, but each group member will follow their own itinerary based on the options selected during booking. Those who have reserved tickets for Waynapicchu or Machu Picchu Mountain will receive guidance from our guide to access these entry points. It’s important to note that these tickets must be reserved in advance through Machu Picchu Reservations.
Return Options to Cusco:
IMPORTANT NOTE: ITINERARY FOR THE FINAL 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 6:00 AM, 7:00 AM, or 8:00 AM—check availability at www.machupicchu.gob.pe.
In the event that tickets for Circuit 02 are not available for the 6:00 AM, 7:00 AM, or 8:00 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 any changes in schedule or circuit availability.
Machu Picchu Tickets:
Pre-Trek Briefing:
Duffle Bag Service (5 Kilos):
Experienced Guides:
Cooking Team:
Kitchen Equipment and Utensils:
Muleteer and Horse Team:
Convenient Hotel Pick-Up Service (4:30 – 5:00 AM):
Private Group Transportation:
Meals and Refreshments:
Included Accommodations:
Hostel Stay in Aguas Calientes:
Machu Picchu Guided Tour:
Return Trip Options from Machu Picchu:
Vegetarian and Vegan Dining:
Emergency Provisions:
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.
At Salkantay Trekkers Peru, we pride ourselves on offering fair and transparent pricing for the unforgettable Salkantay trek to Machu Picchu. Here’s what you need to know:
Fair Pricing: Our rates reflect the value of your experience, ensuring quality service without hidden costs.
Group Tours: Join groups of 10-12 people, with a maximum of 16, for an affordable, shared experience.
Guaranteed Departures: Even with just 2-3 people, your tour is guaranteed, offering flexibility and reliability.
Flexible Booking: Select any available date and join a group that fits your schedule.
Differentiated Pricing: We offer varied rates for adults, students, and children, plus options for returning to Cusco by car or train after visiting Machu Picchu.
Our transparent pricing ensures you receive exceptional service at a competitive price. With Salkantay Trekkers Peru, your Salkantay trek will be both memorable and accessible.
Prices: Salkantay Trek 5 Days to Machu Picchu (2024 – 2025)
Salkantay Trek with Return by Car:
Adult: $295 USD per person
Student: $275 USD per person (Valid student ID required)
Child (8-17 years): $270 USD per person
Car Option:
Hike 3 hours from Machu Picchu to the hydroelectric station by 11 AM.
Catch a 3 PM car for a 6-7 hour journey to Cusco, arriving around 10 PM.
Both options end at Plaza Regocijo in Cusco. Choose the one that suits your preferences for a remarkable journey.
Salkantay Trek with Return by Train:
Adult: $365 USD per person
Student: $345 USD per person (Valid student ID required)
Child (8-17 years): $340 USD per person
Train Option:
Depart Aguas Calientes at 2:30-3:20 PM (based on availability).
Enjoy a 1.5-hour train ride to Ollantaytambo, followed by a 2-hour transfer to Cusco. Arrival at approximately 6:30 PM.
Student Discounts for Machu Picchu
The Peruvian government provides discounts for students. To qualify for these special rates, ensure you meet the following requirements:
Age: Must be under 25 at the time of your visit.
Valid Student ID: A physical, plastic card with your name, university details, photo, and a validity date that does not expire before your visit.
ISIC Card Exclusion: ISIC cards are not accepted for student discounts in Peru.
Important: You must present your valid student ID at Machu Picchu. Failure to do so may result in paying the full ticket price.
How to Book the Salkantay Trek
Booking the 5-Day Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu is simple:
Pricing:
Train Return: $365 (adult), $345 (student/child).
Car Return: $295 (adult), $275 (student/child).
Reservation Prepayment: A non-refundable deposit of $180 USD per person is required to secure your spot. This covers your Machu Picchu entry ticket and accommodations.
Remaining Balance: Pay upon arrival in Cusco at our office (cash or card with a 3.9% fee).
Full Payment Option: Pay the entire cost online. In case of cancellation, the $180 deposit is non-refundable.
Steps to Book Your Adventure
Click “BOOK ONLINE”: Access our reservation platform to begin.
Select Dates & Travelers: Choose your preferred start date and the number of adults, students, and children.
Add Extras: Enhance your trek with optional tickets to Huayna Picchu, Machu Picchu Mountain, or a Vistadome train upgrade.
Complete Personal Details: Provide accurate information for all participants.
Secure Payment: Pay online with a debit or credit card.
After booking, you will receive an immediate confirmation email. Our reservations team will follow up within 24 hours with a detailed itinerary and further instructions.
Why Choose Salkantay Trekkers Peru?
Our expert-guided tours ensure an incredible journey through the Andes, culminating at the breathtaking Machu Picchu. With transparent pricing, flexible booking, and top-notch service, we make your adventure unforgettable.
Book now for a once-in-a-lifetime experience on the Salkantay trek!
Packing efficiently for the 4-day Salkantay trek is crucial for a comfortable and enjoyable experience. Here’s a detailed packing list to guide you:
ESSENTIALS:
FOR YOUR DUFFEL BAG:
Horses will transport up to 7 kg of your gear, including your sleeping bag.
Clothing:
Gear:
INSIDE YOUR DAYPACK:
For Machu Picchu, bags over 25L are not permitted inside. Larger bags must be stored outside.
NOTES
Following this comprehensive list will help ensure a memorable and comfortable experience during your Salkantay trek.
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