Cusco: Salkanta Trekking 4 Days – Machu Picchu

The Salkantay Trek is a captivating 4-day journey from Cusco to the iconic Machu Picchu, offering travelers a chance to experience Peru’s breathtaking landscapes. Priced reasonably at $643 per person, this moderately challenging trek promises stunning vistas, including the Humantay Lagoon and the majestic Salkantay Pass. With personalized attention from a knowledgeable guide, small group sizes, and all the necessary inclusions, this adventure is an enticing opportunity for those seeking an immersive exploration of the region. However, the real question remains: what can one expect to discover along this remarkable trekking route?

This experience made our list of the 20 Best Hiking And Trekking Tours In Urubamba.

Key Points

• This 4-day trekking adventure from Cusco to Machu Picchu is priced from $643 per person and includes hotel pickup, Machu Picchu entrance fees, and a 7kg luggage allowance.

• The itinerary highlights include visiting Humantay Lagoon, hiking to Salkantay Pass at an altitude of 4,630 meters, and a guided tour of Machu Picchu.

• The package includes accommodation, meals, transportation, and a professional bilingual guide, with optional expenses such as Humantay Lagoon fee and sleeping bag rental.

• The small group size is limited to 10 participants, ensuring a personalized experience, and the trek is considered moderately challenging, requiring a good fitness level.

• The tour starts with pickup from Cusco hotels and includes a return journey to Cusco via train and bus after the Machu Picchu visit.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Overview and Pricing

The Salkanta Trekking to Machu Picchu is a 4-day adventure that takes travelers from Cusco to the iconic Inca citadel.

Priced from $643.00 per person, the trek offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and a reserve now, pay later option.

The 5-day experience includes hotel pickup, Machu Picchu entrance fees, a pre-tour briefing, a 7kg luggage allowance transported by horses, professional bilingual guides, accommodations, and most meals.

Additional costs cover the Humantay Lagoon entrance fee, rental of sleeping bags, and transportation to/from the Machu Picchu archaeological site.

The small group size is limited to 10 participants, with tour guides available in both English and Spanish.

Itinerary Highlights

What does the 4-day Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu itinerary entail? The trek begins with a pickup from the hotel between 4:30 am and a breakfast in Mollepata, followed by a visit to the stunning Humantay Lagoon and an overnight stay at the Paso Salkantay camp. The second day is the most difficult, reaching an altitude of 4,630 meters with a 20 km hike. Day 3 involves walking to Playa Sahuayaco, taking a local bus to Santa Teresa, and dinner in Aguas Calientes. The final day starts with an early morning hike to Machu Picchu for a guided tour, then returning to Cusco via train and bus.

Day	Highlights	Distance	Elevation
1	Cusco to Soraypampa, Humantay Lagoon, Salkantay Pass	–	–
2	Salkantay Pass to Chaullay Camp	20 km	4,630 m
3	Chaullay to Aguas Calientes	–	–
4	Machu Picchu to Cusco	–	–

Inclusions

The Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu package includes a range of essential services and amenities to ensure a comfortable and seamless experience.

Travelers will be picked up from their hotel near the historical center and have their entrance fee to Machu Picchu covered. The package also includes a pre-tour briefing, a travel bag for 7 kg of belongings transported by horses, and the services of a professional bilingual guide.

Accommodation, meals, transportation, cooking equipment, and a first aid kit are also provided. Plus, the package includes an expedition return train ticket and horses for luggage transport.

Some optional expenses, like the Humantay Lagoon fee and trekking pole rental, aren’t included.

Additional Expenses

Aside from the inclusions, travelers should budget for several additional expenses during the Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu.

The entrance fee to Laguna Humantay is S/ 25.00 or $8.00 per person. Trekkers can rent sleeping bags for $30.00 per person if they don’t have their own.

Bus transportation to and from the Machu Picchu archaeological site is also required. Plus, there’s an entrance fee and transportation costs to visit the Santa Teresa thermal baths.

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Group Size and Language

The Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu is offered as a small group tour, limited to just 10 participants. This intimate group size ensures a personalized experience and allows for greater flexibility during the trek. The tour guides are bilingual, fluent in both English and Spanish, catering to the diverse needs of international travelers.

Language	Guide Availability
English	Yes
Spanish	Yes
Other	No

The small group size and language options make this Salkantay Trek an accessible and enjoyable experience for adventurers from all backgrounds.

Difficulty and Fitness Level

The Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu is considered a moderately challenging hike, suitable for adventurers with a good level of fitness and previous hiking experience.

The trek involves long days of hiking, reaching altitudes up to 4,630 meters (15,190 feet), and navigating steep, rocky terrain.

Participants should be prepared for strenuous physical activity, including ascents and descents of several hours.

While the trek is designed for trekkers of varying skill levels, a solid fitness base and the ability to walk for extended periods are essential.

Proper preparation, including training and acquiring the necessary gear, is crucial for successfully completing this immersive journey to the iconic Machu Picchu.

Departure and Arrival

On the first day, travelers are picked up from their hotels near the historical center of Cusco as early as 4:30 am.

After a breakfast stop in Mollepata, the group heads to the trailhead at Soraypampa. They’ll trek up to the stunning Humantay Lagoon before continuing on to Salkantay Pass, the highest point of the trek at 4,630 meters (15,190 feet).

The day ends with an overnight stay at the Paso Salkantay campsite.

On the final day, the group returns to Cusco via train and bus after an early morning visit to Machu Picchu.

Throughout the trek, horses transport the group’s belongings, allowing them to hike comfortably.

Frequently Asked Questions

Among the most common inquiries from prospective trekkers are questions about the difficulty level, required fitness, and best time of year for the Salkanta Trek to Machu Picchu.

The trek is considered moderately difficult, requiring good physical condition and preparation, as it involves hiking up to 20 km per day at high altitudes.

The ideal time to undertake the trek is during the dry season from May to September, when weather conditions are more favorable.

Travelers should also be aware that they’ll need to bring or rent appropriate gear, such as hiking boots, warm layers, and trekking poles.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is There an Option to Hike to Machu Picchu on the Same Day?

No, there is no option to hike to Machu Picchu on the same day. The 4-day Salkantay Trek includes a guided tour of Machu Picchu on the final day, with hikers returning to Cusco via train and bus.

Can I Book the Trek for a Solo Traveler?

Yes, the Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu can be booked for solo travelers. The tour operator offers a small group experience with a maximum of 10 participants, making it suitable for individual adventurers seeking a guided trek.

Is It Possible to Upgrade the Accommodations During the Trek?

Yes, it’s possible to upgrade accommodations during the trek. Trekkers can request to stay in private rooms or upgraded campsites for an additional fee, subject to availability. This allows for more comfortable lodging while on the Salkantay Trek.

Can I Bring My Own Hiking Equipment Instead of Renting?

Yes, travelers can bring their own hiking equipment instead of renting. This can be a more cost-effective option, though the tour operator provides necessary gear if needed. Travelers should ensure their equipment meets the trek’s requirements.

Is There an Opportunity to Explore Cusco Before or After the Trek?

Yes, there’s an opportunity to explore Cusco before or after the trek. The tour includes hotel pickup from the historical center, and travelers can extend their stay in Cusco to explore the city further.

Recap

The Salkantay Trek is an awe-inspiring 4-day journey from Cusco to Machu Picchu. Priced at $643 per person, this moderately challenging trek offers stunning views, guided tours, and a personalized experience in small groups. Hikers can look forward to breathtaking landscapes, including the Humantay Lagoon and the majestic Salkantay Pass, culminating in an early morning visit to the iconic Machu Picchu. This unforgettable adventure is a must-do for those seeking to explore Peru’s remarkable natural beauty.

You can check if your dates are available here: