Salkantay Trek 4 Days 3 Nights

The Salkantay Trek is a popular multi-day adventure through the stunning Peruvian Andes, offering trekkers a chance to explore the region’s iconic landscapes. Spanning four days and three nights, this challenging yet rewarding trek takes participants on a journey to the legendary Machu Picchu, while providing an opportunity to enjoy the breathtaking natural beauty of the Salkantay mountain and the serene Humantay Lagoon. Led by experienced English-speaking guides, the Salkantay Trek promises an unforgettable experience for outdoor enthusiasts seeking to uncover the hidden wonders of this remarkable corner of the world.

Key Points

• The Salkantay Trek is a 4-day, 3-night trekking experience in the Peruvian Andes, covering approximately 20 kilometers.
• The trek is led by English-speaking guides, offering an immersive and informative experience for outdoor enthusiasts.
• Key highlights of the trek include Humantay Lagoon and the iconic Inca citadel of Machu Picchu.
• The group size is limited to 15 participants, ensuring personalized attention and an intimate trekking experience.
• The starting price for the trek is $417.00 per person, with a full refund available if canceled 24 hours in advance.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Overview and Pricing

The Salkantay Trek is a 4-day, 3-night journey that offers an immersive experience in the stunning Peruvian Andes.

Priced from $417.00 per person, this trek allows cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Travelers can reserve their spot without immediate payment, providing flexibility.

The trek features limited group sizes of up to 15 participants and is led by English-speaking guides, ensuring a personalized and informative experience.

Highlights include the breathtaking Humantay Lagoon and the iconic Machu Picchu, making this trek a must-do for outdoor enthusiasts and cultural explorers alike.

Trek Details

Spanning 4 days and 3 nights, the Salkantay Trek immerses adventurers in the captivating landscapes of the Peruvian Andes.

The trek features a group size limited to 15 participants, ensuring a more intimate and personalized experience. Along the way, an English-speaking live tour guide leads the way, highlighting the trek’s iconic landmarks, including the stunning Humantay Lagoon and the majestic Salkantay mountain.

Trekkers can expect a challenging yet rewarding journey, covering a total distance of 20 kilometers over the course of the four days.

With a focus on immersing travelers in the natural beauty of the region, the Salkantay Trek offers an unforgettable adventure for outdoor enthusiasts.

Daily Itinerary – Day 1

The Salkantay Trek begins with an early morning departure from Cusco at 5:45 AM.

After a 2-hour drive, the group stops for breakfast in Mollepata.

They then continue the journey, driving for another hour to reach Soraypampa.

From there, the trekking portion of the adventure begins with a 2-hour hike up to the breathtaking Humantay Lagoon.

The group camps at Quiswarniyoc for the night, with a delicious lunch provided before settling in.

This first day lays the groundwork for the challenging yet rewarding trek to come.

Daily Itinerary – Day 2

Waking at 5:00 AM, the group enjoys a steaming cup of coca tea and a hearty breakfast to prepare for the challenging trek ahead.

They then begin their ascent to the Salkantay Pass, the highest point of the trek at 4,630 meters (15,190 feet). The trek covers roughly 20 kilometers and takes approximately 6-7 hours.

Along the way, they’re rewarded with breathtaking views of the Salkantay mountain and the surrounding glaciers.

After reaching the pass, they break for lunch and then continue their descent to the Chaullay campsite, located at 2,900 meters (9,514 feet).

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Daily Itinerary – Day 3

Breakfast is served at 6:00 AM as the trekkers prepare to embark on the next leg of their journey.

They’ll walk for 5 hours to Sahuayaco Beach. After this, they’ll take local transport to Santa Teresa for lunch.

Following the meal, they’ll drive to Hidroeléctrica and then walk for 3 hours to reach the town of Aguas Calientes.

This last stretch of the day gives them the opportunity to rest their legs before the final push to Machu Picchu tomorrow.

With the challenging terrain behind them, the group can look forward to exploring the iconic Inca citadel.

Daily Itinerary – Day 4

On the final day of the Salkantay Trek, the group departs for Machu Picchu at 4:00 AM.

They’ll climb to the main entrance and enjoy a 2.5-hour guided tour of the iconic Inca citadel.

After the tour, trekkers can choose to return to Cusco either by train or by bus.

This fourth day marks the end of the challenging yet rewarding Salkantay Trek, which takes adventurers through stunning mountain landscapes, past the Humantay Lagoon, and ultimately to the legendary Machu Picchu.

With the guidance of an experienced English-speaking tour leader, the trekkers will have an unforgettable experience exploring one of Peru’s most breathtaking destinations.

Inclusions

The Salkantay Trek includes several key amenities to ensure a comfortable and well-supported journey.

Travelers can expect an entrance ticket to Machu Picchu, a professional English/Spanish-speaking guide, and 1 night of camping plus 1 night in an Aguas Calientes hostel.

Plus, the package provides:

1. A canvas bag for carrying 7 kg of belongings, which are transported by horses.
2. Meals including 3 breakfasts, 2 lunches, and 2 dinners.
3. Transport from the beach to Santa Teresa, as well as access to rental sleeping bags and a first aid kit with oxygen for emergencies.

The trek also accommodates vegetarian dietary requests.

Additional Information

Aside from the included amenities, there are a few additional details travelers should be aware of.

First, there’s a 10-sol (approximately $3) entrance fee that must be paid directly to the local government at Machu Picchu.

Plus, while tips and gratuity aren’t mandatory, they’re customary and appreciated by the guides and support staff who make the trek possible.

Based on customer reviews, the Salkantay Trek has an overall rating of 4 out of 5, indicating a positive experience for most participants.

With these minor considerations in mind, adventurers can look forward to an unforgettable journey through the stunning Peruvian Andes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Sleeping Bag?

Yes, you can bring your own sleeping bag. The tour package includes sleeping bags available for rent, but you’re welcome to use your own if you prefer. This provides more flexibility during the trek.

Is There an Option to Upgrade the Accommodation?

Yes, there is an option to upgrade the accommodation. Customers can choose to stay in a hotel in Aguas Calientes instead of the included hostel for an additional cost per person.

Can I Book the Trek for a Private Group?

Yes, the Salkantay Trek can be booked for a private group. The tour provider offers custom group departures with a minimum of 2 participants. Larger private groups may qualify for discounted rates.

What Is the Minimum Age Requirement for Participants?

The minimum age requirement for participants on this tour is not explicitly stated. However, the tour does involve strenuous hiking at high altitudes, so it’s likely suitable for travelers 12 years of age and older who are in good physical condition.

Are There Any Fitness Requirements to Join the Trek?

The trek has moderate physical demands, though there are no strict fitness requirements. Participants should be in good general health and able to hike for several hours each day at high altitude. Prior hiking experience is recommended but not mandatory.

Recap

The Salkantay Trek offers an enchanting 4-day, 3-night adventure through the stunning Peruvian Andes. Trekkers can expect to witness captivating landscapes, including the majestic Salkantay mountain and the serene Humantay Lagoon, while exploring the iconic Machu Picchu. With meals, accommodation, and entrance tickets included, this trek promises an unforgettable journey for outdoor enthusiasts at a starting price of $417 per person.

You can check if your dates are available here: