Set off on an extraordinary adventure with our 4-Day Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu, ideal for travelers eager to experience the essence of the Salkantay route within a condensed schedule. This expertly crafted trek immerses you in the breathtaking scenery of the Salkantay mountains and glaciers over four dynamic days.
Hiking Distance: 46 km (26 miles)
Difficulty Level: Moderate to Challenging
Maximum altitude: 4,215 meters (13,828 feet) – Dead Woman’s Pass (Warmiwañusqa)
Day 1: Your journey commences with the breathtaking Humantay Lagoon and an overnight stay at the relatively quiet Quiswarniyoc private campsite.
Day 2: As the highest point of your trek, detail your ascent to the renowned Salkantay Pass, 4,700 meters before another downhill trek to Chawllay campsite.
Day 3: Enjoy the pleasurable Santa Teresa Valley, full of local agriculture, to reach Aguas Calientes by evening.
Day 4: After this trek, you will visit the famous Machu Picchu-the ancient citadel.
Our 4-Day Salkantay Trek is designed for efficiency, differing from the traditional 5-day trek by maintaining a brisk pace and focusing on essential highlights. Unlike the longer version, this trek skips some leisurely activities such as soaking in hot springs or hiking to the Llactapata viewpoint, ensuring a timely arrival at Machu Picchu. This makes it perfect for those with limited time who still wish to immerse themselves in the natural splendor and cultural heritage of the Salkantay Trail and Machu Picchu.
Included in the Package:
While no single circuit encompasses the entire Inca citadel, all include a comprehensive guided tour lasting between 2 to 2.5 hours with an expert guide, ensuring a rich and educational experience.
Last-Minute Booking Option: If tours for specific circuits are fully booked, you can purchase tickets to visit Aguas Calientes, the gateway town to Machu Picchu. Additional details are available through the provided link.
Essential Steps Before Your Trek:
Pre-Tour Preparation:
Convenient Services:
Exclusive Campsites: Experience the Salkantay Trail’s natural beauty at our selected campsites, chosen for their stunning vistas and immersive environments. Your trek starts at Quiawarniyoc, a tranquil spot with breathtaking views of Salkantay Mountain. In the evenings, relax in our panoramic cabins or crystal domes, perfect for stargazing and connecting with nature. These accommodations blend comfort and safety, fostering a deep connection with the surrounding wilderness.
Easy Online Reservations: Book your Salkantay Trek effortlessly through our user-friendly online platform, ensuring you receive competitive pricing with minimal card processing fees. Planning your adventure is just a few clicks away.
Free Storage Options: Utilize our complimentary storage service at the Cusco office to securely leave any extra luggage during your trek. Finalize all logistics during the pre-tour briefing, giving you peace of mind as you embark on your Andean adventure.
Embark on this 4-Day Salkantay Trek for a memorable and efficient journey to Machu Picchu, combining stunning landscapes, cultural insights, and comfortable services to create an unparalleled trekking experience.
Embark on a mesmerizing journey with our 4-Day Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu, designed for adventurers seeking the essence of the Salkantay experience within a condensed timeframe. This expertly planned trek offers an immersive exploration of the stunning landscapes of the Salkantay mountains and glaciers, all within four action-packed days.
Your adventure begins in Cusco with hotel pickups scheduled between 4:30 and 5:00 AM. During this period, the guide will gather all participants from their respective accommodations. Departing Cusco around 5:15 AM, you’ll travel by car to the town of Mollepata, a journey of approximately two hours. Upon arrival in Mollepata, you’ll enjoy a hearty breakfast at a local restaurant, included in the tour. This stop typically lasts about an hour, allowing time for breakfast and last-minute supplies shopping.
After breakfast, the journey continues by car towards Soraypampa, arriving after another hour’s drive. At Soraypampa, you will meet our team of muleteers and horses, marking the beginning of the Salkantay trek. All equipment and duffle bags will be handed over to the muleteers and horses, allowing you to hike light. The trek from Soraypampa to Humantay Lagoon starts at an elevation of 3,900 meters and ascends to 4,200 meters. The initial part of the trek involves a gradual ascent for about an hour, followed by a steeper climb for the last hour, totaling approximately two hours of hiking.
Upon reaching Humantay Lagoon, you will 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 one to one and a half hours, weather permitting. After visiting the lagoon, the descent begins towards the Quiswarniyoc campsite, involving a one-hour downhill walk followed by a 45-minute nearly flat trek.
You will arrive at the Quiswarniyoc campsite around 2:00 PM, where you will be treated to a delicious lunch prepared by the cooking team. After lunch, the guide will show you to your sleeping quarters for some well-deserved rest. The afternoon is free of scheduled hikes, allowing you to take short walks and explore the vast Quiswarniyoc area, enjoying the imposing views of Salkantay Mountain. Around 6:00 PM, a warm dinner will be served, followed by important information about Day 2 of the trek, which involves reaching the highest point of the entire route.
Summary for Day 1:
The day begins early at 5:00 AM with a traditional coca leaf tea, “te despierto,” served by the kitchen team to assist with acclimatization. After waking, you have about 30 minutes to get ready and pack for the day. Breakfast is typically served at 5:30 AM, followed by a brief period for last-minute backpack checks and bathroom use before starting the hike to the highest point of the Salkantay trek.
At around 6:00 AM, you begin the trek from Quiswarniyoc to Salkantay Pass at 4,700 meters above sea level. The ascent takes approximately three to three and a half hours at a steady pace, with extended breaks every hour for rest and energy replenishment. The main challenge of the day lies in adapting to the altitude, though the climb is manageable with proper acclimatization.
Upon reaching the summit of Salkantay Pass, you will have about 30 to 45 minutes to soak in the stunning views, photograph the mountains, and possibly participate in a local ritual to honor the Apus, the mountain gods in local beliefs. After spending time at the peak, the descent begins towards the lunch spot at Wayracmachay, a two-hour trek where you will enjoy a nutritious lunch prepared by the kitchen team.
Following lunch, there is a short period for rest, weather permitting, before continuing the descent to the Chawllay campsite. This final descent segment lasts between two and a half to three hours, offering incredible views as you transition from the Andes to the Amazon region. Upon arrival at Chawllay campsite, located at 2,900 meters, you will settle into your accommodations and enjoy a delicious dinner prepared by the cooking team.
Summary for Day 2:
The day starts with a wake-up tea at 5:30 AM, followed by packing and preparing for the day’s hike. Breakfast is served around 6:00 AM to fuel up for the trek ahead. At approximately 6:30 AM, you depart Chawllay, heading towards the Lucmabamba campsite. This five-hour hike features mostly flat terrain through the Santa Teresa Valley, providing opportunities to observe diverse flora and fauna.
Upon arrival in Lucmabamba, you will participate in a coffee tour with a local family. During the tour, you will taste the renowned Santa Teresa coffee and learn about the entire coffee production process in the region. After the coffee tour, you will return to the campsite for a nutritious lunch prepared by the cooking team.
The afternoon is free for relaxation or an optional visit to the Santa Teresa hot springs, an ideal way to unwind after three days of trekking. The hot springs visit costs approximately 40 soles, covering transportation to and from the springs and the entry fee. You can choose to participate in this activity or rest at the Lucmabamba campsite.
In the evening, enjoy a delicious dinner prepared by the cooking team around 7:00 PM. After dinner, you will receive information and details for the next day’s itinerary, which leads to the base town of Machu Picchu, Aguas Calientes.
Summary for Day 3:
The final day begins with a wake-up call at 6:00 AM, giving you time to pack and enjoy breakfast at 6:30 AM. Around 7:00 AM, the hike begins from the Lucmabamba campsite to the archaeological site of Llactapata. The three-hour ascent follows the original Inca trail, leading to the small Llactapata ruins where you will gain a unique view of Machu Picchu, Waynapicchu, and the surrounding mountains.
After exploring the Llactapata ruins and appreciating the panoramic views, you will start the steep descent towards Hidroelectrica, the most pronounced part of the trek. This two-hour descent is aided by trekking poles and leads to the hydroelectric station, where you will enjoy lunch at a local restaurant.
Following lunch, you will embark on the final three-hour hike along the railway from Hidroelectrica to Aguas Calientes, the base town for Machu Picchu. Throughout this walk, you can catch glimpses of Machu Picchu from the valley. Upon arrival in Aguas Calientes, the guide will escort you to your hostel for the night, where you can rest, shower, and prepare for the final dinner in town around 7:00 PM. This evening sets the stage for the next day’s visit to Machu Picchu.
Summary for Day 4:
On the final day of the trek, you will visit Machu Picchu, a highly anticipated highlight of the journey. Rise at dawn, around 4:00 AM, to enjoy breakfast at the hotel. At approximately 4:30 AM, the hike towards the Inca citadel of Machu Picchu begins. The hike from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu takes about 1.5 hours, blending 30 minutes of flat trail with an hour’s ascent through historic stone steps leading directly to Machu Picchu’s main entrance.
For those preferring a less strenuous option, there is an alternative to take a bus from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu. Buses depart from 5:30 AM, cost $12 per trip, and take about 25 minutes. You can book this option the night before or on the morning of the trek.
Upon arrival at the Machu Picchu gate by 6:00 AM, present your Machu Picchu tickets and original passport at the main control. If you booked as a student, you will also need to present your original student ID. After passing through the controls, proceed to the upper part of Machu Picchu for iconic photo opportunities. An expert guide will lead a 2.5-hour tour through the citadel, uncovering its secrets and history.
Following the guided tour, you will have approximately 30 minutes of free time to explore the circuit on your own. Please note that the maximum allowed visiting time at Machu Picchu is three hours according to park regulations.
After visiting Machu Picchu, the journey continues with each group member following their chosen itinerary based on the options selected during booking. Those with tickets for Waynapicchu or Machu Picchu Mountain will receive guidance from the guide to access these additional viewpoints. It is essential to reserve these tickets in advance through Machu Picchu Salkantay Trekkers Peru.
For the return to Cusco, you have two options:
Car Return Option:
Start a roughly three-hour hike from Machu Picchu to Hydroelectrica by 11:30 AM to catch the car departing at 2:30 PM. The car journey from Hydroelectrica to Cusco takes about six hours, arriving around 10:00 PM at Plaza Regocijo in Cusco city center. Please note that this option does not allow time for additional hikes to Waynapicchu or Machu Picchu Mountain, as they require approximately three extra hours.
Train Return Option:
Return to Aguas Calientes by walking for about 1.5 hours or taking a 25-minute bus ride for $12. Once in Aguas Calientes, you will have time to explore the town and enjoy lunch (not included in the tour). Then, head to the train station to catch the 2:30 PM 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 around 6:30 PM. The train option allows for more time at Machu Picchu and accommodates optional mountain hikes, providing a faster and more comfortable return to Cusco.
Important Note:
The itinerary for the final day at Machu Picchu depends on ticket availability for Circuit 02, available for entry times at 6:00 AM, 7:00 AM, or 8:00 AM. If Circuit 02 tickets are unavailable, alternative itineraries will be provided to ensure a fulfilling experience at Machu Picchu despite schedule or circuit changes. For more details, refer to the Alternative Itinerary Options for Machu Picchu Visit.
Summary for Day 5:
Our trek includes a comprehensive pre-tour orientation held at 6:00 PM at the SALKANTAY TREKKERS PERU office in Cusco. This briefing covers detailed itineraries, logistics, and answers to any questions, ensuring you’re fully prepared. You will receive duffle bags for up to 7 kilograms of personal items and printed tickets for Machu Picchu and train travel. If you are unable to attend the in-person orientation, you can arrange a virtual meeting by contacting us at +51962389295.
We offer a convenient hotel pick-up service between 4:30 and 5:00 AM from your Cusco hotel or Airbnb, ensuring a seamless start to your adventure. Additionally, our duffle bag service allows you to pack up to five kilograms in a provided duffle bag, which our support team will carry throughout the trek, letting you hike comfortably with only essentials.
Experience the natural beauty of the Salkantay Trail at our exclusive campsites, selected for their stunning views and immersive environments. Your trek begins at Quiawarniyoc, a serene location with spectacular views of Salkantay Mountain. Evening accommodations include panoramic cabins or crystal domes, perfect for stargazers and nature enthusiasts, blending comfort and safety with a profound connection to the surrounding wilderness.
Booking your Salkantay Trek is effortless through our user-friendly online platform, ensuring competitive pricing with minimal card processing fees. Additionally, we provide a complimentary storage service at our Cusco office, allowing you to securely leave any extra luggage during your trek. Finalize all logistics during the pre-tour briefing, giving you peace of mind as you embark on your Andean adventure.
Embark on our 4-Day Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu for a memorable and efficient journey, combining breathtaking landscapes, cultural insights, and comfortable services to create an unparalleled trekking experience.
The Salkantay Trek price includes your ticket to visit Machu Picchu, regardless of your chosen return option (by car or train). Usually, this ticket grants access to Circuit 02 of Llaqta Machu Picchu—availability depends on when you book. If Circuit 02 is unavailable, we’ll provide an alternative like Circuit 01, 03, or 04. For more details, check the options to ensure an unforgettable Machu Picchu experience.
Prepare for your adventure with a detailed briefing held at our Machu Picchu Reservations office at 7:00 pm the evening before your trek. If you can’t attend in person, we offer virtual sessions. Contact us at +51974217700 at least 48 hours in advance to schedule a personalized briefing with your guide.
We provide a 7-kilo duffle bag during the briefing for your personal items. These bags are carried by horses along the trek and will be available at campsites, allowing you to hike comfortably with just a daypack. After the trek, you can leave the bag at our Cusco office for convenience.
Our bilingual guides (English and Spanish) are fully licensed and trained by recognized tourism institutions in Peru. Their expertise ensures you get the best insights and support throughout your journey.
Our chefs and assistants prepare fresh, nutritious meals to fuel your adventure. They are experienced in creating delicious vegetarian and vegan dishes and can accommodate food allergies or dietary restrictions upon request.
We supply all necessary cooking gear to prepare and serve meals at each campsite, ensuring that every meal meets high standards, even in remote locations.
A dedicated team of muleteers and horses transports your camping gear, personal bags, and supplies. They ensure everything arrives safely and on time, even in challenging weather, so you can focus on enjoying the trek.
Start your adventure stress-free with our hotel pick-up service in Cusco. Between 4:30 and 5:00 am, our team will collect you from your accommodation, ensuring a smooth beginning to your trek.
Enjoy a comfortable ride in a private vehicle from Cusco to Soraypampa, the starting point of your trek. This 3-hour journey offers convenience and comfort, setting the tone for your adventure.
You’ll be provided with 4 breakfasts, 4 lunches, and 4 dinners, plus snacks and tea. Every meal is thoughtfully prepared by our chefs to keep you energized and satisfied throughout the trek.
Experience a mix of unique accommodations during the trek, including 2 nights in scenic panoramic cabins, 1 night in a glass dome under the stars, and 1 night in a cozy hostel in Aguas Calientes. Camp accommodations include spacious tents for 2 people, mattresses, and pillows for added comfort.
After trekking, rest at a comfortable hostel in Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu Town). Rooms include private bathrooms, hot showers, and Wi-Fi, offering a peaceful night before your visit to Machu Picchu.
Your package includes a 3-hour visit to Machu Picchu, with a professional guide leading a 2.5-hour tour. Learn about the rich history and architecture of this iconic site before enjoying some free time to explore.
Choose between two return options:
We offer vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free meals at no extra charge. Just let us know your preferences during booking.
For your safety, our guides carry oxygen and a first-aid kit to handle emergencies during the trek.
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.
Packing efficiently for the 5-day Salkantay trek is crucial for a comfortable and enjoyable experience. Here’s a detailed packing list to guide you:
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.
| Service Type | Price per Person |
| Classic Group Trek (5 Days) | $550.00 USD |
The Classic Group Service offers a complete trekking experience, shared with a group of other international travelers, typically 10 to 16 people. It includes a professional bilingual guide, private transport from Cusco to the trailhead and train/bus return from Aguas Calientes to Cusco, all camping and lodging (shared mountain sky huts/domes and one night in a basic hotel in Aguas Calientes), all meals (except breakfast Day 1 and lunch/dinner Day 5), a 5-7kg duffel bag allowance carried by horses/mules, and the Machu Picchu entrance ticket (Circuit 2). It’s an excellent balance of adventure, organization, and value.
| Number of People | Price per Person (All-Inclusive) |
| 1 Person | $1,795.00 USD |
| 2 Persons | $1,395.00 USD |
| 3 Persons | $1,150.00 USD |
| 4-6 Persons | $1,050.00 USD |
| 7+ Persons | $995.00 USD |
Choosing the Private Service ensures a highly personalized and exclusive experience. The “All-Inclusive” price provides a dedicated guide, private transportation throughout the trek, upgraded accommodations (often including larger or more luxurious sky domes/cabins), and a higher level of personalized attention from the entire trekking staff (guide, chef, and horsemen). This option allows for maximum flexibility in pace, a customizable schedule (within permit constraints), and a more intimate connection with the Andean environment.
The standard trek includes the entry ticket for Circuit 2, which is the most comprehensive route, allowing access to the upper platforms for the classic postcard photo and a visit to the interior archaeological sector (Sun Temple, Industrial Zone, etc.).
These tickets must be reserved months in advance and are subject to availability due to strict daily limits.
Importance: Provides a challenging hike and a unique, steep perspective overlooking the entire Machu Picchu citadel. Requires the less-comprehensive Circuit 3 entry ticket.
Importance: A longer, more gradual climb than Huayna Picchu, offering a spectacular and sweeping panoramic view of Machu Picchu and the surrounding valleys. Requires the Circuit 3 entry ticket.
The group and all-inclusive private services typically include the Expedition or Voyager train class from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo, followed by bus/van transport back to Cusco.
Importance: Upgrades the comfort and experience of your return journey. This service offers larger panoramic windows, which are ideal for enjoying the stunning Sacred Valley scenery, and typically includes a small snack and beverage service on board.
Extra Porter/Mule for Personal Gear (12 kg / 26 lbs): $120.00 USD (for the entire trek).
Importance: While a 5-7kg duffel allowance is included, this upgrade doubles your personal luggage capacity (carried by the support team), leaving you to hike with only a small daypack and making the challenging high-altitude days significantly easier and more enjoyable.
Sleeping Bag Rental (Comfort to -18°C / 0°F): $25.00 USD per person (for the entire trek).
Importance: Essential for safety and comfort on the high-altitude first night (Quiswarniyoc) where temperatures can drop below freezing. Renting ensures you have a high-quality, clean, and appropriate technical bag without the hassle of traveling with your own.
Walking Poles Rental (Pair): $15.00 USD per person (for the entire trek).
Importance: Highly recommended for reducing impact on your knees, especially during the long, steep descents on Day 2 from Salkantay Pass and the descent to Hidroelectrica on Day 4.
Upgrade to 3-Star Hotel in Aguas Calientes: $45.00 USD per person.
Importance: The standard service includes a basic hostel/2-star hotel. This upgrade provides a more comfortable and luxurious final night of rest before or after your Machu Picchu visit, often including better amenities, a superior breakfast, and a quieter location.
Hot Springs Visit (Transport and Entry Fee): $20.00 USD per person.
Importance: The Cocalmayo Hot Springs are a perfect way to relax and soothe tired muscles on Day 3 in Santa Teresa. This upgrade covers the round-trip transportation and the entrance fee for this optional, rejuvenating activity.
Student Discount: $20.00 USD off the trek price.
Must be under 18 years old at the time of the trek, or a student under 25 with a valid, non-expired university ID card. The discount is applied primarily to the Machu Picchu entrance ticket portion of the cost.
Group Booking Discount: $10.00 – $20.00 USD per person off the group trek price.
Typically offered when a group of 5 or more people book the Classic Group Service together on the same departure date.
Youth Discount (Under 17): $20.00 USD off the trek price.
For travelers aged 12 to 17. The discount requires a copy of the passport at the time of booking.
Get Ready to Explore? With your booking confirmed, all that's left to do is pack your bags and get ready to explore. Whether you're a seasoned traveler or embarking on your first journey, we'll be with you every step of the way. At SALKANTAY TREKKERS, we believe that every journey begins with a single step. So why wait? Start your adventure today and let the world be your guide.
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