4-Day Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu Classic
Embark on a breathtaking four-day trek along the Salkantay Trail, experiencing the raw beauty of the Andes and culminating in the mystical Machu Picchu.
Overview
4-Day Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu Classic Overview
Experience the majestic Andes on the “Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu – 4 Days,” a journey that blends adventure with the rich tapestry of Andean culture. Starting from Cusco, this trek takes you through diverse landscapes, from the snow-kissed peaks of Salkantay and Veronica to the lush depths of cloud forests. Witness the serene beauty of Humantay Lake and conquer the challenging Salkantay Pass, each step bringing you closer to the awe-inspiring Machu Picchu.
As the final highlight of the “Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu – 4 Days,” explore the ancient Inca citadel of Machu Picchu. This trek is not just a physical journey but a voyage through history, offering a unique perspective on the Inca civilization. Perfect for adventurers seeking an alternative route to Machu Picchu, this trek is a blend of breathtaking landscapes, cultural immersion, and historical exploration.
| 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: Journey from Cusco to Salkantaypampa via Mollepata and Humantay Lake – Commencing the Trek
Our adventure kicks off with a pre-dawn pickup from your hotel at 4:30 am. A scenic 3-hour drive to Anta-Mollepata unfolds, showcasing the majestic Salkantay and Veronica peaks – revered sentinels in Incan mythology. The route offers a sweeping view of the diverse landscapes spanning the high and low valleys.
Reaching Mollepata, we pause for a restful break, giving you time to savor breakfast at your own pace (not included). This pause is a chance to gear up for the trek ahead. Post-breakfast, we resume our drive to Soraypampa, the starting point of our hike.
At Soraypampa, we rendezvous with our trek support team, including our dedicated chef. We gear up for the initial leg of our hike, progressing towards the striking Humantay Lake (4200 m.a.s.l). The round-trip hike, taking about 3 hours, reveals breathtaking views of the Humantay glacier and offers an hour for tranquil exploration and admiration of this natural wonder.
Following our visit to Humantay Lake, we return to Soraypampa for a well-deserved, chef-prepared lunch. Afterwards, we proceed to hike to Salkantaypampa, our campsite nestled amidst glaciers. This tranquil spot is ideal for stargazing and appreciating the night’s celestial beauty.
Accommodation: Camping
Meals: Lunch and Dinner
Hiking: Approx. 6 hours, 10 km
Day 2: From Soraypampa to Ccollpampa via Salkantay Pass and Huayramachay
Awakening to coca tea at 5:00 am, we start our day with a hearty breakfast before packing up. Our journey to the apex of the Salkantay trail (4620 masl – 15,255 ft) begins, a challenging 3-hour climb through rocky terrains, with the imposing Salkantay peak in view and potential chinchilla sightings. Atop the pass, panoramic views of the Salkantay, Humantay, and Pumasillo peaks await.
Our descent from the Salkantay Pass is a winding 3-hour trek to Huayracmachay, our lunch venue. The afternoon’s hike takes us through the mesmerizing upper rainforest, covering 9 km in about 3 hours to Challway Village (2900 masl – 9,514 ft). Here, we’re surrounded by a lush landscape, home to vibrant orchids and diverse flora, in the pleasantly warm climate.
Accommodation: Camping
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Hiking: Approx. 6 hours, 12 km
Day 3: From Collpapampa to Aguas Calientes via Lucmabamba
We start early around 5:30 am with coca tea. Following breakfast, our hike leads us to La Playa, tracing the Salkantay River through the dense rainforest. This gentle trail allows us to enjoy local produce like passion fruit, banana, coffee, avocado, mango, orange, and papaya, sourced from small family-owned plots. Keep an eye out for the “Cock of the Rocks,” Peru’s national bird, with its striking feathers.
Covering 16 km, the day’s hike lasts about 7 hours to reach Lucmabamba, where we break for lunch. Surrounded by coffee plantations, Lucmabamba offers a chance to sample fresh coffee and access basic amenities. Post-lunch, a local van ride of about an hour takes us to Hydroelectric, followed by a train journey to Aguas Calientes, the gateway to Machu Picchu. Upon arrival, we check into our hotel, dine out, and rest in preparation for the next day.
Accommodation: Hotel in Aguas Calientes
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Hiking: Approx. 7 hours, 16 km
Day 4: From Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu and Back to Cusco
On this enchanting final day, we board an early bus to Machu Picchu. At the entrance, after passport verification, we begin exploring the ancient Inca city. The trek to the guardhouse provides the perfect vantage point for iconic Machu Picchu photographs. We then continue with a detailed 2-hour guided tour along Circuit 2, delving into the site’s rich history and cultural importance.
Those who have pre-booked can opt for the Huayna Picchu hike (separate ticket required). After exploring, we return to Aguas Calientes and catch a train to Ollantaytambo. A bus from Ollantaytambo brings us back to Cusco, with an expected hotel arrival time of around 7:30 pm, enriched with unforgettable memories.
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
- Early Morning Departure from Cusco: Start your journey with a scenic 3-hour drive from Cusco to Mollepata, enjoying breathtaking views of the Salkantay and Veronica mountains along the way.
- First Day Trek to Humantay Lake: Embark on a 3-hour hike to the stunning Humantay Lake, surrounded by glaciers, offering serene exploration and photo opportunities.
- Camping Under the Stars at Salkantaypampa: Spend your first night camping at Salkantaypampa, a perfect spot for stargazing and enjoying the peaceful mountain atmosphere.
- Ascent to the Salkantay Pass: Challenge yourself with a 3-hour ascent to the highest point of the Salkantay trail, where panoramic views of majestic peaks await.
- Journey Through the Cloud Forest: Traverse the upper rainforest, immersing yourself in a landscape filled with colorful orchids and diverse flora.
- Exploring the Lush Jungles: Hike through thick rainforests, savoring local fruits and vegetables, and keep an eye out for Peru’s national bird, the “Cock of the Rocks.”
- Cultural Immersion in Lucmabamba: Experience the local culture in Lucmabamba, known for its coffee plantations, and enjoy a taste of fresh coffee.
- Ride to Aguas Calientes: Travel from Hydroelectric to Aguas Calientes by train, preparing for the final day’s visit to Machu Picchu.
- Exploring Machu Picchu: Conclude your adventure with a guided tour of the iconic Machu Picchu, learning about its historical and cultural significance, and enjoy optional hikes like Huayna Picchu for spectacular views.
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, Choquequirao 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, Choquequirao 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, Choquequirao Expeditions does not bear responsibility for costs arising from incidents not covered by your travel insurance.
Looking to customize your package?
If the offered packages don’t quite meet your needs, customize it with us.
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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