IN CUSCO: SALKANTAY TREK WITH FOOD 4 DAYS 3 NIGHTS

The Salkantay Trek in Cusco, Peru offers an unforgettable 4-day, 3-night adventure through the heart of the Andes. Trekkers can expect breathtaking landscapes, rich cultural experiences, and delicious meals as they hike to the stunning Humantay Lake and cross the challenging Salkantay Pass. Led by knowledgeable guides, this alternative route to Machu Picchu promises an exhilarating journey that will leave adventurers with memories to last a lifetime. But what awaits beyond the Salkantay Pass? The path to the legendary Inca citadel holds its own surprises, ready to captivate the senses and inspire the soul.

This experience made our list of the 2 Best Food Tours In Aguas Calientes.

Key Points

• The Salkantay Trek is a 4-day, 3-night alternative to the Inca Trail, offering a less crowded route to Machu Picchu with prices starting from S/9,341 per person.
• The trek includes stunning scenery, a hike to Humantay Lake, crossing the Salkantay Pass (4,630 meters), and a guided tour of Machu Picchu.
• Meals, camping gear, and transportation are included, providing an immersive experience during the trek.
• The itinerary features a mix of camping and a night in a hostel in Aguas Calientes, with additional costs for sleeping bags and the bus ride to Machu Picchu.
• The tour company prioritizes the safety and well-being of the group, with the itinerary subject to change due to unforeseen events.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Overview of the Salkantay Trek

The Salkantay Trek is a popular alternative to the renowned Inca Trail, offering trekkers a less crowded and more challenging route to Machu Picchu.

This 4-day, 3-night trek is priced from S/9,341 per person and limits group size to 17 participants. A live tour guide fluent in English and Spanish accompanies the group throughout the journey.

Travelers can enjoy the flexibility of free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

The trek features stunning scenery, including a hike to Humantay Lake and a crossing of the Salkantay Pass, the highest point at 4,630 meters.

With meals, camping gear, and transportation included, the Salkantay Trek provides an immersive Andean adventure.

Daily Itinerary

Kick-starting the Salkantay Trek, participants are picked up from their hotels at 5:45 AM, indulging in breakfast in Mollepata before being transported to Soraypampa.

The hike to Humantay Lake, a stunning glacial lake, takes around 2 hours uphill. After taking in the breathtaking views, they descend back to Soraypampa and camp at the Salkantay Pass.

On day two, trekkers wake up at 5 AM with coca tea, then tackle the 20 km trek to the highest point at 4,630 m. Following an Andean ritual, they enjoy lunch before descending to Chaullay.

Day three includes a hike to Sahuayaco Beach, transport to Santa Teresa, and a walk to Aguas Calientes.

Inclusions

Comprehensive package inclusions encompass the entrance ticket to Machu Picchu, a pre-departure briefing, and a 5 kg travel bag carried by a horse throughout the trek. The tour provides a professional guide fluent in both English and Spanish, 2 nights of camping and 1 night in a hostel in Aguas Calientes. Meals consist of 3 breakfasts, 3 lunches, and 3 dinners. Transportation from the beach to Santa Teresa is included, as well as kitchen equipment, a first aid kit, and an oxygen bottle for emergencies. Vegetarian options are available upon request.

Included	Details
Entrance Ticket	Machu Picchu
Briefing	Prior to Departure
Luggage	5 kg travel bag, carried by horse
Meals	3 Breakfasts, 3 Lunches, 3 Dinners

Additional Costs and Requirements

Aside from the comprehensive package inclusions, trekkers must pay an entrance fee of ten soles (approximately $3) directly to the local government.

Plus, sleeping bags are available for rent if needed. Guests should also factor in tips and other personal expenses during the trek.

Another cost to consider is the bus ride from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu and back, which isn’t included in the package.

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Important Notes

The itinerary for the Salkantay Trek is subject to change due to factors like weather, strikes, or other unforeseen events.

In such cases, the tour operator won’t offer refunds. Customers are advised to be aware that missing a service day will be considered as completing the trek without any claims or refunds.

It’s crucial to closely monitor the situation and stay flexible. The tour company give you the best possible experience, but unexpected circumstances may require adjustments to the original plans.

Participants should be prepared for potential changes and understand that the safety and well-being of the group are the top priorities.

Exploring Humantay Lake

On the first day, trekkers embark on a 2-hour uphill hike to the stunning Humantay Lake. This glacial lake nestled at the base of the Humantay mountain offers a breathtaking panorama.

Trekkers can:

• Admire the serene turquoise waters reflecting the surrounding snow-capped peaks.
• Spot native Andean wildlife such as llamas and alpacas grazing nearby.
• Participate in an Andean ritual, connecting with the spiritual traditions of the region.
• Enjoy a picnic lunch with views of the majestic Salkantay mountain.
• Capture memorable photos to immortalize this remarkable natural wonder.

After soaking in the beauty of Humantay Lake, the group descends back to Soraypampa to set up camp at the Salkantay Pass, preparing for the challenging trek ahead.

Trekking to Salkantay Pass

Early the next morning, trekkers awake to a steaming cup of coca tea as they prepare for the challenging ascent to the Salkantay Pass.

At 4,630 meters, this highest point of the trek offers breathtaking views of the snow-capped Salkantay mountain. The group embarks on a 20-kilometer hike, stopping along the way to participate in an Andean ritual.

After reaching the summit, they descend to the village of Chaullay for lunch, marveling at the dramatic landscape that transitions from rugged peaks to lush, verdant valleys.

The day’s challenging trek lays the foundation for the journey’s next stages, as trekkers push onward towards Machu Picchu.

Guided Tour of Machu Picchu

Reaching Machu Picchu after the challenging trek, trekkers embark on a guided tour of the ancient Inca citadel.

The tour, led by a knowledgeable guide, explores the iconic landmarks and unravels the mysteries of this UNESCO World Heritage Site. Trekkers marvel at the impressive stone architecture, intricate terraces, and the iconic Temple of the Sun.

The guide shares insights into the site’s history, culture, and significance, captivating the group.

Key highlights include:

• Witnessing the astonishing craftsmanship of the Inca stonemasons
• Learning about the astronomical alignments and sacred rituals at Machu Picchu
• Discovering the agricultural terraces and irrigation system that sustained the city
• Appreciating the stunning vistas of the Andes mountains surrounding the site
• Understanding the site’s rediscovery and preservation efforts

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Customize the Trek to My Physical Ability?

Yes, the trek can be customized to suit individual physical abilities. The tour operator offers flexible itineraries and provides support for those who need it, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable experience for all participants.

What Is the Weather Like During the Trek?

The weather during the Salkantay trek varies greatly due to the high elevation. Trekkers can expect cold temperatures, especially at night, and possible rain or snow, particularly when crossing the Salkantay Pass. Proper warm clothing is essential for the trek.

How Do I Prepare for the High-Altitude Hike?

To prepare for the high-altitude hike, one should acclimatize by arriving in Cusco a few days early, stay hydrated, eat high-calorie meals, and pack proper hiking gear like warm layers, a good pair of boots, and trekking poles.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Equipment?

Participants can bring their own equipment like sleeping bags, but bringing their own food is not recommended. The tour provides all meals, kitchen equipment, and first-aid supplies, making it a convenient and inclusive experience.

Are There Any Restrictions on Group Size or Age?

The Salkantay Trek has a small group size of up to 17 participants. There are no age restrictions, but the trek requires a moderate fitness level. Families and solo travelers are welcome to join the guided group.

Recap

The Salkantay Trek offers an unforgettable adventure through the Andes. Hikers will be captivated by the stunning natural landscapes, including the serene Humantay Lake and the challenging Salkantay Pass. With comfortable accommodations, delicious meals, and knowledgeable guides, this 4-day, 3-night trek is an excellent choice for those seeking an alternative route to the iconic Machu Picchu.

You can check if your dates are available here: