SALKANTAY TREK 3 DAYS TO MACHU PICCHU

The Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu offers an unparalleled adventure through Peru’s captivating landscapes. Over 3 days, trekkers will ascend to the awe-inspiring Salkantay Pass, surrounded by glaciers and snow-capped peaks. As they descend, they’ll encounter lush jungles and charming campsites before reaching the iconic Inca citadel. With professional guides, delicious meals, and essential amenities, this trek promises an unforgettable experience. But what makes the journey truly remarkable is the chance to witness the stunning natural diversity that Peru has to offer along the way.

This experience made our list of the 20 Best 3 Day Tours In Aguas Calientes.

Key Points

• The Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu is a 3-day trek showcasing diverse landscapes, including glaciers, rivers, lagoons, and jungle valleys.
• The trek includes a guided tour of Machu Picchu and transportation to the site, with options to reach it by hike or bus.
• The package includes entrance to Machu Picchu, professional guides, accommodation, meals, and emergency provisions like first-aid kits and oxygen bottles.
• The trek features breathtaking views of the Salkantay Mountain and opportunities to interact with charming villages and agricultural landscapes.
• The tour provider offers flexible cancellation policies and customization options based on participant numbers and travel dates.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Overview and Pricing

The Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu is a 3-day excursion priced from $468.00 per person.

This trek offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, and travelers can reserve their spot now and pay later.

The trek covers diverse landscapes, including glaciers, rivers, lagoons, and jungle valleys, offering the beauty of the Peruvian Andes and the iconic Machu Picchu.

With a live tour guide available in Spanish and English, the trek is an excellent opportunity for adventurous travelers to explore this stunning region.

Trek Details and Duration

Spanning 3 days, the Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu immerses adventurers in diverse Peruvian landscapes. Guided in English or Spanish, the trek highlights glaciers, rivers, lagoons, and jungle valleys in the stunning Andes. The itinerary is as follows:

Day	Highlights
1	Pickup in Cusco, ascent to Salkantay Pass (4,630m), 15km descent to Chawllay Camp (2,900m)
2	Walk to La Playa Sahuayaco, explore Santa Teresa Valley, transport to Aguas Calientes
3	Options to reach Machu Picchu: hike or bus, 2.5-hour guided tour, return to Cusco

The trek’s duration allows participants to enjoy the region’s natural wonders before reaching the iconic Machu Picchu.

Daily Itinerary

Commencing the 3-day Salkantay Trek, adventurers embark on their journey with an early 2:00 am pickup in Cusco.

The first day involves an uphill hike to the Salkantay Pass at 4,630 meters, followed by a 15 km downhill trek to Chawllay Camp at 2,900 meters.

On the second day, hikers walk for 5 hours from Chaullay to La Playa Sahuayaco, exploring the Santa Teresa Valley with its various plantations. They then take local transport to Santa Teresa and Hidroelétric, followed by a 3-hour walk to Aguas Calientes.

The final day offers options to reach Machu Picchu, either by a 1.5-hour hike or a $12 bus ride, followed by a 2.5-hour guided tour of the iconic site.

The daily itinerary is as follows:

1. Day 1:

   • Pickup in Cusco at 2:00 am
   • Transfer to Soraypampa (3 hours)
   • Ascent to Salkantay Pass (4,630 meters)
   • 15 km downhill hike to Chawllay Camp (2,900 meters)

2. Day 2:

   • Walk from Chaullay to La Playa Sahuayaco (5 hours)
   • Explore Santa Teresa Valley with various plantations
   • Local transport to Santa Teresa, then to Hidroelétric
   • 3-hour walk to Aguas Calientes

3. Day 3:

   • Options to reach Machu Picchu: 1.5-hour hike or $12 bus ride
   • 2.5-hour guided tour of Machu Picchu
   • Return options: car or train to Cusco

Inclusions

The Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu package includes a variety of amenities to ensure a comfortable and immersive experience.

It covers the entrance ticket to Machu Picchu, a briefing before departure, and canvas bag service.

Travelers will be accompanied by professional guides who speak English and Spanish, as well as a team of muleteers and horses.

The package provides transportation to the starting point, accommodation, meals with vegetarian/vegan options, and transportation back to Cusco by train.

For emergencies, a first aid kit and oxygen bottle are included.

Plus, the package covers the entrance fee to the Salkantay trail, sleeping bags, trekking sticks, and drinking water for bottles.

Travel insurance is also provided.

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Exploration of Natural Landscapes

Along the Salkantay Trek, trekkers enjoy the diverse and breathtaking natural landscapes of the Peruvian Andes. The trek takes them through:

1. Glaciers and snowcapped peaks, offering awe-inspiring views of the majestic Salkantay Mountain.

2. Rushing rivers and tranquil lagoons, where they can spot local wildlife and enjoy the serene surroundings.

3. Lush, verdant valleys and dense, tropical jungles, showcasing the region’s ecological diversity.

4. Charming villages and agricultural landscapes, allowing trekkers to experience the local way of life.

This incredible journey through nature’s wonders is a highlight of the Salkantay Trek, leaving trekkers with unforgettable memories and a deeper appreciation for the beauty of the Andes.

Amenities and Services

The Salkantay Trek package includes a comprehensive suite of amenities and services to ensure a seamless and comfortable experience for trekkers.

It provides an entrance ticket to Machu Picchu, professional guides fluent in English and Spanish, and a team of muleteers and horses to assist with luggage.

Accommodations and meals, including vegetarian and vegan options, are included.

The package also covers transportation to and from the starting point, as well as the return journey to Cusco by train.

Trekkers can also rely on a first-aid kit and oxygen bottles for emergencies.

Additional equipment like sleeping bags and trekking sticks are provided, ensuring participants are well-prepared for the journey.

Logistics and Transportation

The Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu begins with an early morning pickup in Cusco at 2:00 am.

Travelers are then transferred to Soraypampa, which takes 3 hours.

The trek includes:

1. Ascending to the Salkantay Pass at 4,630 meters, the highest point of the trek.
2. A 15 km downhill hike to Chawllay Camp at 2,900 meters.
3. A 5-hour walk from Chaullay to La Playa Sahuayaco, followed by transportation to Santa Teresa and Hidroeléctrica.
4. A 3-hour walk from Hidroeléctrica to Aguas Calientes, the gateway to Machu Picchu.

Hikers have the option to reach Machu Picchu via a 1.5-hour hike or a $12 bus ride.

The return to Cusco is by train.

Customization and Availability

Travelers can check availability for the Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu and select their preferred starting times on the tour provider’s website.

The trek can be customized based on the number of participants and the desired travel dates. Availability may vary depending on factors such as seasonality, peak times, and tour group size.

It’s recommended to book well in advance to secure the preferred travel dates and ensure availability.

The tour provider offers a flexible cancellation policy, allowing travelers to cancel up to 24 hours prior to the start of the trek for a full refund, providing peace of mind in planning the journey.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Camping Gear on the Trek?

Yes, travelers can bring their own camping gear on the trek. The tour company provides sleeping bags and trekking sticks, but allowing personal camping equipment gives hikers more flexibility and comfort during the multi-day journey.

What Is the Average Group Size for the Trek?

The average group size for the trek is typically between 8 to 12 hikers. This allows for a more intimate and personalized experience while maintaining manageable group dynamics during the trek.

Do I Need Any Specific Permits to Hike the Salkantay Trail?

For the Salkantay Trek, hikers don’t need any special permits. The trek’s entrance fee is included in the package price. However, it’s crucial to book the trek in advance to secure availability and permits for Machu Picchu.

Can I Extend or Modify the Trek Itinerary if Needed?

Yes, hikers can typically extend or modify the Salkantay Trek itinerary if needed. Many tour operators offer customizable options to accommodate different fitness levels and interests, allowing for a more personalized trekking experience.

What Is the Weather Typically Like During the Trek?

The weather during the trek is typically cool and dry, with daytime temperatures ranging from 50°F to 70°F. Nights can get quite cold, so warm clothing is essential. Hikers should prepare for potential rain showers and changing conditions throughout the multi-day journey.

Recap

The Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu offers a remarkable 3-day journey through Peru’s diverse landscapes. Trekkers will ascend to stunning glaciers, descend through lush jungles, and culminate their adventure at the iconic Machu Picchu. With professional guides, quality meals, and essential amenities, this trek provides an unforgettable and safe experience for nature enthusiasts seeking to explore the wonders of the Andes.

You can check if your dates are available here: