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Machu Picchu – Salkantay Trek

(1 Review)
  • Duration4 days / 3 nights.
  • Accommodation Camping, Hotel.
  • InclusionsEnglish/Spanish Guide, Transport, Porter, Permits.
  • Meals4 Breakfast, 3 Lunch, 3 Dinner.
  • Physical RatingModerate to Hard.
  • Group Size8-16 max.

Salkantay Trek at a glance

The Classic Salkantay Trek 4 days to Machu Picchu, is the perfect option if you’re looking to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life. This trek takes you through some of the most stunning scenery in the Peruvian Andes and culminates with a visit to the world-famous Inca site of Machu Picchu.

During the 4 days, you will get to see a wide range of ecosystems, from towering mountains to the lush, green cloud forests. You will also experience the traditional Andean culture as you hike through small villages and interact with locals. The highlight of the trek is undoubtedly Machu Picchu, one of the Seven Wonders of the World. This ancient Inca city is simply breathtaking and a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

If you are looking for an adventure that takes you off the beaten path and leaves you with unforgettable memories, look no further than the Salkantay Trekking 4 days.

Salkantay Trek Highlights

Machu Picchu: The ancient Inca city and the final destination of the trail, offering breathtaking views and a glimpse into Inca architecture and culture with a 2 hour guided tour on the final day.

Soraypampa: A high-altitude village in the Sacred Valley of Peru, serving as a starting point for treks to Humantay Lake and offering stunning views of the surrounding mountains.

Humantay Lake: A stunning high-altitude turquoise lake set against the backdrop of the snow-capped Humantay Mountain, known for its breathtaking natural beauty and spiritual significance.

Wayracmachay: An archaeological site located on the Inca Trail, known for its ancient stone structures and strategic location, which served as a resting place for travelers and ceremonial site.

Collpapampa: A small village in the Santa Teresa District of the Sacred Valley known for its lush, tropical scenery and traditional Andean culture.

Hidroelectica: A settlement in the Santa Teresa District of the Sacred Valley, serving as a key transport.

Aguas Calientes: A small town at the base of Machu Picchu, serving as the gateway for visitors heading to the iconic Inca site.

 

Salkantay Trek Itinerary

Day 1: Cusco to Salkantay Basecamp (16km, 8hrs)

  • Pickup from the hotel at 4.30 am and drive for 3 hours to the trailhead
  • Enjoy breakfast, then hike for 3 hours to Soraypampa for lunch
  • 2-hour ascent to Humantay Lake, then to Salkantay Pampa basecamp
  • Camp near Salkantay Mountain

 

Day 2: Salkantay Basecamp to Collpapampa (18km, 9hrs)

  • Morning coffee/tea to wake up, then breakfast
  • 2-hour hike to Salkantay Pass, explore, then 3 hours downhill to lunch
  • Continue 3 hours into the Collpapampa campsite
  • Camp near a small village in the cloud forest

 

Day 3: Collpapampa to Aguas Calientes (16km, 8hrs)

  • Hike to Lucmabamba and participate in a Pachamanca barbecue
  • Visit a coffee farm, then drive to Hidroelectica
  • 3 hour hike to Aguas Calientes
  • Dinner at a local restaurant
  • Overnight in a 3-star hotel

 

Day 4: Machu Picchu (4 hrs)

  • Early bus to Machu Picchu for sunrise
  • 2-3 hour guided tour of the citadel
  • Return on the panoramic Vistadome train
  • Arrival back to Cusco around 7:30 pm

 

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What's Included

  • Hotel pickup and drop off from Cusco.
  • All transportation during the tour.
  • Cargo mules to carry all camping equipment
  • Return on the panoramic Vistadome Train or 360°
  • 2-night camping in comfortable tents
  • 1 night 3-star hotel in Aguas Calientes
  • Experienced chef to prepare meals
  • All meals on the trail, except the last day lunch
  • Water and daily snacks
  • Entry tickets to the Salkantay Trek and Machu Picchu
  • Professional tour guide.
  • Pachamanca barbecue, cooking class, coffee experience
  • Duffle Bag for up to 8 kg (17 lb) for your stuff
  • First-aid kit, satellite phones, oxygen supply.
  • Pillow, sleeping pad, rain poncho, hand towels
  • Safety briefing the day before the tour.

What's NOT Included

  • Entry to Huayna Picchu Mountain (optional).
  • Sleeping bag, air mattress and trekking poles (available to rent).
  • Last day lunch after the Machu Picchu Tour
  • Travel Insurance
  • Anything not mentioned in the inclusions

Other things to know

  • We strongly recommend you arrive in Cusco at least 2 days prior to the trek commencing to help you acclimatise to the altitude. This reduces the risk of serious problems with altitude significantly.
  • It is recommended to purchase a Travel & Medical Insurance to avoid any unforeseen circumstances.
  • While it is our intention to adhere to the itinerary, there is a certain amount of flexibility built into the itinerary and on occasion it may be necessary, or desirable to make alterations. 

Discounts

Children Discount:

  • Below 17 years of age at the time of entering the Inca Trail and Machu Picchu.

Student Discount:

  • 25 years or less at the time of entering the Inca Trail and Machu Picchu.
  • Original ID with the Name of the University, Name and Photo of the student and a valid Expiration Date.
  • International Student Identity Card is not valid.

Cancellation Policy

  • All primary deposits are 100% non-refundable since we use this money to book your permits.
  • If you cancel the tour 7 days before departure, you will be refunded the total of your payment minus the deposit.
  • Refunds are only processed to the original form of payment used to make the booking.
  • Click Here for detailed Terms & Conditions.

FAQs Salkantay Trek

Are permits required for the Salkantay Trek?

No specific permits are required for the Salkantay Trek itself, but a permit to enter Machu Picchu is needed if the trek concludes there. Most trekkers book through a tour operator who handles permits and logistics.

Can I do the Salkantay Trek independently?

While it is possible to trek independently, many opt for guided tours to ensure safety, navigation, and support. Guided tours also handle logistics such as permits, transportation, and meals.

What is the best time to do the Salkantay Trek?

The best time to trek is during the dry season, from May to September, when weather conditions are more stable. The trek can be done year-round, but conditions can be wet and challenging during the rainy season (October to April).

Do I need travel insurance?

Travel Insurance Travel insurance is compulsory in order to participate on any of our trips. When selecting a travel insurance policy please bear in mind that all clients must have medical coverage and that we require a minimum coverage of USD 200,000 for repatriation and emergency rescue. We strongly recommend that the policy also covers personal liability, cancellation, curtailment and loss of luggage and personal effects. If you have credit card insurance we require proof of purchase of the trip’s receipt of credit card statements with a credit card in your name. Contact your bank for details of their participating insurer, the level of coverage and emergency contact telephone number.

How difficult is the Salkantay Trek?

The trek is considered moderate to challenging due to the high altitude and varying terrain. Proper acclimatization and a reasonable level of fitness are recommended.

What should I bring on the Salkantay Trek?

Bring comfortable hiking boots, warm clothing (layers), a rain jacket, a hat, sunscreen, sunglasses, a sleeping bag, a headlamp, and a reusable water bottle. Trekking poles can also be helpful.

Is the Salkantay Trek suitable for beginners?

The trek is suitable for those with a basic level of fitness and hiking experience. Beginners should prepare for the physical demands and high altitude by training and acclimatizing properly.

How can I prepare for the high altitude?

To prepare, spend a few days acclimatizing in Cusco before the trek, stay hydrated, avoid heavy meals before trekking, and consider taking altitude sickness medication if needed.

Why book with Kynd Erth

  • Support LocalWe have partered with locally owned businesses for this experience, helping grow local communities and their economy.
  • Fair LabourThis experience includes fair wages to the staff supporting a healthy work culture where they are treated kindly and fairly.
  • Reduce WasteWe avoid using single-use items on this experience wherever possible. We also encourage bringing reusable water bottles, bags, and containers.
  • Local CultureYou will learn about local cultures and customs on this experience, and engage and interact with local communities where possible.
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