SALKANTAY TREK TO MACHU PICCHU 4 DAYS
The spirit of Salkantay and Machu Picchu!
4 Days / 3 Nights
Altitude
4,630 m / 15,190 ft
4,630 m / 15,190 ft
Accommodation
2 to 5 stars
2 to 5 stars
Group size
Small group
Small group
Departures
Daily departures
Daily departures
TRAVEL DESCRIPTION
The 4-Day Salkantay Trek with Illa Kuntur Travel is perfect for nature lovers who enjoy both Andean and jungle landscapes, from tropical rainforest to towering snow-capped mountains. Along the route, we will pass through sacred mountains and the subtropical jungle that surrounds Machu Picchu. On the first day, we will visit the impressive Humantay Lake with its brilliant turquoise color. Then, we will continue toward the majestic Salkantay snow-capped mountain, before finally visiting the Wonder of the World, Machu Picchu.
PROGRAM OVERVIEW
Day 01
Cusco | Mollepata | Soraypampa | Humantay Lagoon
On the first day, we’ll visit the beautiful Humantay Lagoon, considered one of the most beautiful in Peru. We’ll also get our first views of the towering Salkantay glacier.
Day 02
Salkantaypampa | Salkantay Pass | Wayracmachay | Chaullay
This day we’ll hike at the foot of the Apu, the jungle guardian Salkantay, and take part in a small offering of gratitude.
Day 03
Chaullay | Collpapampa | La Playa | Hydroelectric | Aguas Calientes
This day features a gentle hike through the thick jungle with spectacular views of the Sacred River.
Day 04
Aguas Calientes | Machu Picchu | Ollantaytambo | Cusco
Visit Machu Picchu with your expert guide, who will provide a unique experience in the hidden city of the Incas. In the afternoon, we return to Cusco.
Day 01: Cusco | Mollepata | Soraypampa | Humantay Lagoon
- The 4-day Salkantay trek begins with pickup from your hotel in Cusco around 5:00 a.m. We will travel toward Mollepata (approx. 3 hours), where we will enjoy a delicious breakfast. Then we will continue for one more hour until reaching Soraypampa, our starting point.
- In Soraypampa, we will enjoy lunch and then begin the hike toward Humantay Lake, famous for its impressive turquoise color. The ascent takes about two hours, depending on your pace.
- At the lake, you will have free time to explore, take photos, and admire its natural beauty. Afterwards, we will return to Soraypampa to enjoy a dinner prepared by our team.
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You will spend the night at the Sky Lodge, a unique accommodation with spectacular views of the Salkantay snow-capped mountain. If the weather allows, you may enjoy a beautiful starry night.
- Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
- Accommodation: Sky Lodge in Soraypampa
Day 02: Salkantaypampa | Salkantay Pass | Wayracmachay | Chaullay
- After a restful night at the Sky Lodge Salkantay in Salkantaypampa (Soraypampa), we will begin the day early with an energizing breakfast. We will then start the hike toward the impressive Salkantay Pass, following a gradual uphill trail that offers spectacular views of the snow-capped mountain and the surrounding Andes.
- Upon reaching the Salkantay Pass, one of the highest points of the route, we will take time to rest, enjoy the scenery, and capture photos of this sacred mountain. Afterwards, we will begin the descent toward Wayracmachay, where we will enjoy a well-deserved lunch in a beautiful high-mountain setting.
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In the afternoon, we will continue descending through a landscape that gradually transitions from high-Andean terrain into the lush cloud-forest, with warmer temperatures and increasingly dense vegetation, until we reach Chaullay. Here we will settle in and relax after an intense day surrounded by nature.
- Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
- Accommodation: Lodge or campsite in Chaullay
Day 03: Chaullay | Colpapampa | The Beach | Hydroelectric | Hot Waters
- After a restful night with the group and the guide, we will begin the day at 5:30 a.m. with a delicious breakfast. We will then start the hike toward “La Playa,” following a tropical trail along the Salkantay River. Along the way, we will make short stops to taste fresh local fruits such as passion fruit, banana, coffee, avocado, mango, orange, and papaya.
- We will continue hiking until we reach Lucmabamba, a small and charming coffee-growing village where we will enjoy a well-deserved lunch and find basic services to rest.
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In the afternoon, we will take transport toward Hidroelectrica and continue on foot along the train route for approximately 3 hours, until reaching the town of Aguas Calientes. Here you will have time to relax and prepare for the visit to Machu Picchu the following day.
- Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
- Accommodation: Hotel in Aguas Calientes
Day 04: Hot Waters | Machu Picchu | Ollantaytambo | Cusco
- This day will be truly special without a doubt, the effort of the last 4 days will have been worth it. Early in the morning, after enjoying breakfast at the hotel, we will head with our guide to the bus station to begin the ascent to the Llaqta of Machu Picchu. There, we will have a 2-hour guided tour, exploring and learning in depth about each of its main sectors.
- After the guided tour in Machu Picchu, those who have the corresponding tickets may ascend Huayna Picchu Mountain or Machu Picchu Mountain. This additional visit lasts approximately 3 hours and offers incredible panoramic views.
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After marveling at the majesty of Machu Picchu and capturing its iconic photos, we will return to Aguas Calientes for lunch. In the afternoon, we will board the train back to Ollantaytambo and then continue to Cusco.
- Meals: Breakfast
- Accommodation: Not applicable
INCLUDED - NOT INCLUDED - DETAILS
Included
- Accommodation in campsites
- A duffel bag to carry your personal belongings and sleeping bag.
- Sleeping mat and blankets.
- Covers to protect your backpack.
- 1 night in a hotel in Aguas Calientes
- Meals: 3 breakfasts, 3 lunches, and 3 dinners
- Hygiene products.
- All transfers (Guaranteed).
- Pickup and return to your hotel in Cusco.
- Transport from La Playa to Hidroelectrica.
- Round-trip bus ticket Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu – Aguas Calientes (Day 4).
- Train ticket (Expedition or Voyager class) from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo (Day 4).
- Porter team.
- Horseman team.
- Horses to carry one duffel bag (we will provide the duffel bag for your belongings).
- Entrance ticket to the Salkantay Trek.
- Entrance ticket to Humantay Lake.
- Entrance ticket to Machu Picchu.
- Quality and safety service.
- Pre-departure briefing.
- First-aid kit.
- Camping equipment.
- 24/7 customer assistance.
Not Included
- Domestic and international flights.
- Personal expenses such as shopping, tips, and additional activities.
- Lunches and dinners not mentioned in the itinerary.
- Travel insurance that covers cancellations, lost luggage, etc.
- Personal equipment and any other items not specified.
- Any service not clearly mentioned in the itinerary.
- Tips for guides, drivers, and service staff.
- Sleeping bag rental: USD 20
- Inflatable mattress: USD 20
- Entrance ticket to Huayna Picchu Mountain: USD 60
- Train from Hidroelectrica to Aguas Calientes (Day 3).
- Lunch in Aguas Calientes (Day 4).
- Water and snacks.
What to bring
- Personal documents: Valid passport or ID (mandatory for all tours mentioned).
- Hat or cap and sunglasses: To protect yourself from solar radiation.
- Small backpack: To carry water, snacks,
sunscreen and lip balm with UV protection essential at high altitude,
and other personal items during the excursions. - Cash in soles: For purchases in local communities, tips, or souvenirs.
About Trains to Machu Picchu
PeruRail Expedition
PeruRail’s most economical tourist service. It offers comfortable seats, large windows, and an atmosphere inspired by Inca culture, ideal for travelers seeking a practical option.
PeruRail Vistadome
Service with panoramic windows on walls and ceiling, allowing you to fully appreciate the landscape. Includes complimentary snacks and drinks, sometimes with dance shows and fashion parades.
PeruRail Vistadome Observatory
An exclusive and sophisticated train that adds an **observatory car** with balcony and live show to the Vistadome panoramic experience. Offers unparalleled views.
Inca Rail The Voyager
Inca Rail’s most economical tourist service. Offers a simple and authentic journey with comfortable seats and attentive service, celebrating the pleasure of discovery.
Inca Rail The 360°
Features taller and wider panoramic windows. Includes an open-air observatory car and onboard entertainment system, ideal for 360-degree views.
Inca Rail The Premium & Lounge
A luxury service offering maximum comfort and exclusivity. Enjoy spacious seating, live music, and a connection with authentic Peruvian cultural expressions.
Recommendations for your trip
Health Recommendations
- Inform the agency and your doctor if you have any heart, respiratory, high blood pressure, pregnancy, or other chronic conditions before doing the Salkantay trek or the hike to Humantay Lake, as both routes take place at high altitude and require physical effort.
- To prevent altitude sickness, follow the agency’s recommendations: prior acclimatization in Cusco (1 to 2 days minimum), good hydration, avoiding intense physical activity, and avoiding alcohol during the first days.
- Bring enough personal medication for the entire trip, including regular treatments and, if necessary, your medical prescription. If you have a history of altitude sickness, consult your doctor before traveling.
- During the Salkantay trek, the weather can vary significantly between high Andean areas and cloud forest zones. It is recommended to bring light clothing for the day, warm layers for the cold, and a rain jacket for possible showers.
- Avoid heavy meals before the hikes and choose lighter foods. Coca or muña tea can help with the acclimatization process.
Travel Rules and Recommendations
- Respect the regulations of the Archaeological Park and local communities during the Salkantay trek. Always follow the guide’s instructions and remain on the designated trails.
- Keep your belongings in sight at all times and secure your personal items inside your backpack, especially cameras, phones, and documents, as some zones may be humid or muddy.
- Do not litter and respect the flora and fauna along the route. Salkantay is a protected natural area, and its conservation depends on every visitor.
- In case of physical discomfort, extreme fatigue, or any risky situation, inform the guide immediately to receive proper assistance.
- In an emergency, contact our team or use the emergency numbers provided by the agency.
TRAVEL PRICES
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SALKANTAY TREK TO MACHU PICCHU 4 DAYS Price Per Person - From 2 people |
|
|
GROUP SERVICE
FROM 2 PEOPLE
|
US$ 595.00 |
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PRIVATE SERVICE
FROM 2 PEOPLE
|
REQUEST QUOTE |
Special Rates
- 1 person: Personalized quote
- Groups of 3+ people: Group discount
- Minors: Special discount
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