Cusco: Salkantay Trek 4 Days 3 Nights With Return by Train

The Salkantay Trek is a beloved adventure that takes trekkers on a captivating journey through Cusco’s breathtaking landscapes. Over the course of 4 days and 3 nights, you will witness the towering Humantay Lagoon, conquer the high-altitude Salkantay Pass, and culminate their experience with a guided tour of the iconic Machu Picchu. With limited group sizes and all-inclusive amenities, this bilingual trek promises an unforgettable experience. But the true allure lies in the chance to create memories that will remain long after the final train ride back to Cusco.

Key Points

• The Salkantay Trek is a 4-day, 3-night tour from Cusco to Machu Picchu, with a maximum elevation of 4,630 meters.
• The tour includes hotel pickup, entrance fees, bilingual guide, and accommodation, with the option to rent trekking poles and sleeping bags.
• The itinerary covers diverse landscapes, including Humantay Lagoon, Salkantay Pass, and the remote campsites, culminating in a guided tour of Machu Picchu.
• Additional expenses include buses to/from Machu Picchu, entrance fees, and optional thermal baths, with recommended tips for the guide and porters.
• The tour is limited to 10 participants, with safety procedures and altitude acclimatization tips discussed during the pre-trek briefing.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

The Cusco: Salkantay Trek 4 Days 3 Nights with return by train is a popular excursion that offers travelers a chance to explore the stunning Salkantay mountain range.

Priced from Kč10,162 per person, the tour includes pickup from your hotel, entrance fees, a professional bilingual guide, and accommodation.

Cancellation is free up to 24 hours in advance, and you can reserve your spot now without paying anything today.

The trek takes you through breathtaking landscapes, with the highest point reaching 4,630 meters.

Additional expenses include buses to/from Machu Picchu and equipment rentals.

The tour is limited to 10 participants and offers both Spanish and English-speaking guides.

Itinerary Summary

This 4-day trek takes travelers on an exhilarating journey through the Salkantay mountain range.

On the first day, they’ll hike to Soraypampa, visit the stunning Humantay Lagoon, and camp overnight at the Salkantay Pass.

The second day involves trekking from the pass to the Chaullay campsite, reaching an impressive altitude of 4,630 meters.

Hikers then descend to Playa Sahuayaco on day three, transfer to Santa Teresa, and continue on to Aguas Calientes.

The final day is spent exploring the iconic Machu Picchu ruins with a guided tour, before returning to Cusco by train.

• Witness the breathtaking Humantay Lagoon
• Conquer the challenging Salkantay Pass
• Immerse in the diverse landscapes
• Stay overnight at remote campsites
• Discover the wonder of Machu Picchu

Inclusions and Accommodations

The tour includes pickup from a hotel near the historical center of Cusco.

It also covers the entrance fees to Machu Picchu and Laguna Humantay, which can cost around $8.00 per person.

Participants will receive a briefing before the trek, a travel bag for 7 kilos of belongings, and a professional bilingual guide.

Transportation to the starting point, 2 nights of camping, and 1 night in Aguas Calientes are provided.

Meals include 3 breakfasts, 2 lunches, and 2 dinners.

The tour also includes transportation from the beach to Santa Teresa, cooking equipment, a first aid kit, and horses for luggage transport.

Additional Expenses

Along With the inclusions mentioned, there are a few additional expenses travelers should be aware of.

These optional add-ons can enhance the overall experience but carry an additional cost.

• Buses to and from the Machu Picchu archaeological site – approximately $12 each way.

• Entrance fee and transportation to the thermal baths of Santa Teresa – around $10.

• Trekking poles – available for rent at $5 per pair.

• Sleeping bags – can be rented for $30 per person.

• Tips for the guide and porters – typically $5-10 per person per day is recommended.

Knowing these potential extra costs upfront allows travelers to plan their budget accordingly and make informed decisions about their Salkantay Trek journey.

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Preparation and Important Information

To properly prepare for the Salkantay Trek, travelers should bring a few essential items. These include a change of clothes, hiking shoes, sunscreen, and clothes that can get dirty or worn during the trek.

It’s also recommended to bring hiking pants for comfort and protection. Trekking poles are optional but can be rented on-site.

Travelers should provide their contact number with country code and WhatsApp to receive updates. The group size is limited to 10 participants, and the tour is conducted in both Spanish and English.

The trek lasts 4 days, so travelers should check availability for their preferred start times. By packing the right gear and being prepared, hikers can fully enjoy the stunning Salkantay Trek experience.

Pickup and Briefing

Typically, the tour begins with a pickup from your hotel near the historical center of Cusco.

You’ll receive a briefing prior to the trek, where your guide will provide important information and answer any questions you may have.

The briefing covers:

• An overview of the itinerary and daily activities
• Guidance on packing the right gear and clothing
• Tips for acclimating to the high altitudes
• Safety procedures and emergency protocols
• Expectations for the challenging yet rewarding journey ahead

A travel bag for your 7-kilogram belongings and a professional, bilingual guide will accompany you throughout the trek, ensuring a seamless and memorable experience.

Camping and Accommodations

Campsites along the Salkantay Trek provide comfortable accommodations for trekkers. The first night is spent at the Salkantay Pass camp, situated at an elevation of 4,630 meters.

The second night is at the Chaullay campsite. These campsites feature spacious tents with sleeping pads and sleeping bags provided. Bathroom facilities and hand-washing stations are available. Meals are prepared by the trek’s culinary team and served in a dining tent.

Porters transport the camping equipment, allowing trekkers to hike unencumbered. On the third night, the group stays at a hotel in Aguas Calientes, providing a chance to freshen up before visiting Machu Picchu the following day.

Transportation and Meals

The tour package includes transportation from the hotel near the historical center of Cusco to the starting point of the trek.

From there, the journey unfolds with a mix of hiking, transportation, and guided tours. Meals during the trek are provided, including 3 breakfasts, 2 lunches, and 2 dinners.

The camping equipment, including cooking gear, is also included. To enhance the experience, the package offers:

• Pickup and drop-off at your hotel
• Entrance fees to key sites
• Bilingual guide to enhance understanding
• First aid kit for peace of mind
• Horses to carry your luggage

Supplementary expenses cover buses to/from Machu Picchu, thermal baths, and rental of trekking poles or sleeping bags.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Best Time of Year to Do This Trek?

The best time to do this trek is during the dry season from May to September, when the weather is mild and the trails are less muddy. Crowds are also fewer during this time of year.

Can I Customize the Itinerary to Suit My Preferences?

Yes, travelers can customize the Salkantay Trek itinerary to suit their preferences. The tour operator’s team can discuss alternative plans and work with the travelers to create a personalized experience that meets their needs and interests.

How Difficult Is the Salkantay Trek Overall?

The Salkantay Trek is a moderately challenging hike that requires good physical fitness. It involves trekking at high altitudes, steep ascents, and crossing a mountain pass. However, it’s manageable for fit hikers with proper preparation and equipment.

Are There Any Age or Fitness Requirements for This Tour?

This trekking tour doesn’t have strict age or fitness requirements, but participants should be reasonably fit and capable of hiking at high altitudes for several hours each day. The tour operator can provide guidance on suitability based on individual abilities.

What Is the Cancellation Policy if I Need to Change My Dates?

The tour operator offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, allowing participants to receive a full refund. This provides flexibility to change dates if needed without penalty.

Recap

The Cusco: Salkantay Trek 4 Days 3 Nights offers an unforgettable adventure through Peru’s stunning landscapes, culminating in a guided tour of the iconic Machu Picchu. With its inclusion of meals, camping accommodations, and transportation, this bilingual tour provides a comprehensive experience for up to 10 participants, creating memories that will last a lifetime.

You can check if your dates are available here: