Cusco: Salkantay Trek 4d/3n |Return by Train|

The Salkantay Trek is a captivating 4-day, 3-night adventure that takes adventurers on a journey through the breathtaking landscapes of the Andes. Culminating with a visit to the iconic Machu Picchu, this trek offers a rich cultural experience, featuring guided tours, meals, and camping accommodations, as well as a return by train from Aguas Calientes. Trekkers will be treated to stunning natural wonders, including the Humantay Lagoon and the challenging Salkantay Pass, all while being supported by a professional guide. With an array of included services and important information to consider, the Salkantay Trek promises an unforgettable adventure that may leave you eager to uncover more.

Key Points

• The Salkantay Trek is a 4-day, 3-night hiking adventure through the Andes, culminating at the iconic Machu Picchu site.
• The trek includes highlights such as Humantay Lagoon, Salkantay Pass, and Santa Teresa, with a return journey by train.
• The package cost of $450 per person covers hotel pickup, entrance fees, professional guide, meals, and camping accommodations.
• Additional expenses include buses to/from Machu Picchu, thermal baths, and optional trekking pole rentals.
• Advance reservations for Machu Picchu tickets and proper gear, such as hiking boots and sun protection, are highly recommended.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Trek Overview and Pricing

The Salkantay Trek is a 4-day, 3-night hiking adventure that takes visitors through the stunning Andes landscape, culminating with a visit to the iconic Machu Picchu.

Priced at $450 per person, the trek offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and a reserve now, pay later option.

Highlights include the Humantay Lagoon, the Salkantay Pass, and Santa Teresa.

The package includes hotel pick-up, entrance fees, a professional guide, camping accommodations, meals, and transportation.

Additional expenses include buses to/from Machu Picchu, thermal baths, and trekking poles.

Advance reservations are recommended to secure Machu Picchu tickets.

Itinerary Highlights

The Salkantay Trek 4D/3N itinerary offers an exhilarating journey through the Andes.

On the first day, trekkers begin with an early pickup from their Cusco hotel, enjoy breakfast in Mollepata, and then climb to the stunning Humantay Lagoon before returning to camp in Soraypampa.

The second day challenges trekkers as they ascend to the 4,630-meter Salkantay Pass, covering 20 kilometers and descending to Chaullay.

On the third day, the route leads through Santa Teresa and Hidroeléctrica, concluding with a walk along the train tracks to Aguas Calientes.

The final day features a guided tour of the iconic Machu Picchu before the return journey to Cusco.

Included Services

The Salkantay Trek 4D/3N package includes a comprehensive set of services to ensure a seamless and enjoyable experience for trekkers.

It offers hotel pickup, entrance fees to Machu Picchu, and pre-departure information. Trekkers receive a travel bag for their belongings, which are transported by horses.

The package also provides a professional bilingual guide, transportation to the trek’s starting point, 2 nights of camping and 1 night in Aguas Calientes, 3 breakfasts, 2 lunches, and 2 dinners.

Additional services include cooking equipment, a first aid kit, return train tickets, and even rental options for sleeping bags.

This inclusive offering allows trekkers to focus on the journey without worrying about logistics.

Additional Expenses

Aside from the comprehensive services included in the Salkantay Trek 4D/3N package, there are a few additional expenses trekkers should be aware of.

These include:

1. Buses to and from the Machu Picchu archaeological site, which typically cost around $12 USD per person for the roundtrip journey.
2. The entrance fee and transportation to the thermal baths in Santa Teresa, which can be enjoyed for an additional cost.
3. The rental of trekking poles, which are available for $1-2 USD per day.

While these additional expenses are minimal, it’s important for trekkers to budget accordingly and be prepared for any extra costs they may incur during their Salkantay Trek adventure.

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Important Information

What should trekkers ensure when preparing for the Salkantay Trek 4D/3N?

First and foremost, travelers should double-check that they’ve their passport or ID on hand.

Plus, they’ll need to pack the right clothing, including a windbreaker, sunglasses, sun hat, and comfortable attire.

Don’t forget to bring a camera to capture the stunning Andean landscapes.

Sunscreen is a must, and it’s recommended to carry some cash for any last-minute expenses.

Trekkers should also ensure they’ve the correct contact information, including country code, and ensure they’ve WhatsApp installed for easy communication.

Advance reservations are highly recommended to secure tickets for Machu Picchu and avoid any availability issues.

What to Bring

Packing the right gear is crucial for a successful Salkantay Trek. Trekkers should bring a windbreaker to protect against the chilly mountain air, sunglasses to shield their eyes from the glare, and a sun hat to keep the sun off their face.

Other essential items include a change of clothes, a camera to capture the stunning landscapes, and sunscreen to prevent sunburns. Plus, comfortable clothing and proper hiking boots are a must.

Hikers should also ensure they’ve the correct contact information, including a country code, and have WhatsApp installed for easy communication. With the right preparation, trekkers can fully enjoy the beauty of the Salkantay route.

Contact and Booking

Travelers may conveniently reserve their spot on the Salkantay Trek with the ‘Reserve now & pay later’ option, allowing them to book without any upfront payment. The trek is priced at $450 per person and offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. To secure a booking, the supplier recommends contacting them via email to verify availability, especially for last-minute reservations.

Booking Details	Information
Pricing	$450 per person
Cancellation	Free up to 24 hours prior
Payment	Reserve now, pay later
Reservations	Verify availability by email

Machu Picchu Access

The Salkantay Trek culminates with a visit to the iconic Machu Picchu, the renowned Inca citadel.

After reaching Aguas Calientes, trekkers take a bus up to the Machu Picchu archaeological site for a guided tour. This allows them to:

1. Explore the impressive ruins, marveling at the architectural feats of the Incas.
2. Gain insights into the site’s history and significance from the knowledgeable guide.
3. Enjoy ample time to wander the site on their own, capturing stunning photos and seeing the breathtaking scenery.

The trek’s inclusion of the Machu Picchu visit ensures a truly comprehensive and unforgettable Inca experience for all participants.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Difficulty Level of the Salkantay Trek?

The Salkantay Trek is considered a moderately challenging hike, requiring a good level of physical fitness. It involves ascents to high altitudes, long hiking distances, and camping in remote areas, making it suitable for experienced trekkers.

Can I Upgrade My Accommodations During the Trek?

The Salkantay Trek accommodations cannot be upgraded as it’s a pre-set group tour with camping. However, travelers can rent sleeping bags if they don’t want to bring their own. The itinerary and services are fixed for this trek package.

Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Salkantay Trek?

The Salkantay Trek doesn’t have any age restrictions, but it’s recommended for physically fit travelers. Children under 6 aren’t advised due to the challenging terrain, while seniors should consult their doctor before booking.

Can I Book the Trek for a Private Group?

Yes, you can book the Salkantay Trek as a private group. The trek operator offers private group options, allowing you to customize the itinerary and experience with your own group of travelers.

What Contingency Plans Are in Place in Case of Inclement Weather?

The trekking company has contingency plans in place to address inclement weather. They can adjust the itinerary and provide alternative routes or activities if needed to ensure the safety and comfort of trekkers.

Recap

The Salkantay Trek is an exhilarating 4-day, 3-night adventure through the Andes, culminating in a visit to the iconic Machu Picchu. Trekkers will be captivated by the stunning Humantay Lagoon, the challenging Salkantay Pass, and the rich cultural experiences along the way. With guided tours, meals, and camping accommodations, this trek offers a comprehensive and unforgettable journey through the heart of the Inca Empire.

You can check if your dates are available here: