SALKANTAY TREK 4 DAYS TO MACHU PICCHU

The Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu presents an exhilarating 4-day adventure for the intrepid explorer. Trekkers will be captivated by the breathtaking Andes mountains, glacial lakes, and the iconic Inca citadel. From the historic city of Cusco, this challenging journey takes hikers through diverse landscapes, culminating in the unforgettable experience of witnessing the grandeur of Machu Picchu. With experienced guides, comfortable accommodations, and delectable meals, the Salkantay Trek promises an unforgettable blend of natural beauty, culture, and personal achievement. For those seeking an extraordinary outdoor adventure, the Salkantay Trek may just be the ultimate quest.

Key Points

• The Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu is a 4-day trekking adventure that starts at Cusco, with highlights including Lake Humantay and the challenging Salkantay Pass.
• The trek covers a total distance of 57 km (35 miles) and reaches a maximum elevation of 4,700 meters, suitable for fit adventurers.
• Accommodation, meals, guides, and essential equipment are provided throughout the trek, with options for vegetarian and vegan diets.
• The final day is dedicated to exploring the iconic Machu Picchu, accessible by hike or bus from Aguas Calientes.
• The trek is best undertaken during the dry season (May-September) when temperatures can drop to -5°C (23°F) at higher elevations.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Overview and Pricing

The Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu is a 4-day hiking adventure that takes travelers from Cusco to the iconic Inca citadel.

Priced from $416 per person, the trek offers a reservation with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

The journey is led by professional English and Spanish-speaking guides, and includes meals, accommodation, and essential equipment.

Highlights include trekking through the stunning Andes, exploring Humantay Lake, and reaching the challenging Salkantay Pass at 4,700 meters.

With moderate to challenging difficulty levels, the trek is well-suited for fit adventurers seeking an immersive Andean experience before reaching the magnificent Machu Picchu.

Itinerary Highlights

The Salkantay Trek’s itinerary highlights an immersive 4-day journey through the stunning Andean landscape.

Day 1 takes trekkers to the beautiful Lake Humantay at 4,000 meters, where they’ll spend the night in a mountain cabin.

The next day’s challenging trek reaches the Salkantay Pass at 4,700 meters, with dramatic mountain views.

On Day 3, the trek descends into the lush Santa Teresa Valley before reaching the town of Aguas Calientes.

The final day is dedicated to exploring the iconic Machu Picchu ruins, either by a scenic hike or bus.

Throughout the trek, meals, accommodation, guides, and equipment are provided for a seamless and memorable experience.

Day 1: Cusco, Lake Humantay

Trekkers begin their Salkantay adventure in Cusco, the historic Inca capital nestled high in the Andes.

On the first day, they explore the stunning Lake Humantay, a glacial lake surrounded by snow-capped peaks.

The trek involves:

1. Breakfast, lunch, and dinner prepared by the team.
2. Accommodation at the cozy Mountain Sky Cabin.
3. A moderate hike of 10 km (6 miles) over 5-6 hours, gaining 4,000 meters in elevation.
4. Preparation for the challenging terrain ahead, with temperatures expected to drop to -5°C at night.

Despite the cold, trekkers are energized by the breathtaking scenery and the anticipation of reaching the iconic Machu Picchu.

Day 2: Quiswarniyoc to Salkantay Pass

On the second day, trekkers embark on a challenging hike from Quiswarniyoc to the Salkantay Pass. The trek covers 22 km (14 miles) and reaches a maximum altitude of 4,700 meters. This arduous journey takes 9-10 hours and is considered the most challenging part of the Salkantay Trek. Trekkers must navigate steep ascents and descents, with cold conditions expected at the higher elevations. To highlight the difficulties, consider this table:

Difficulty	Maximum Altitude	Distance	Trekking Duration	Camping Altitude
Challenging	4,700 meters	22 km	9-10 hours	2,900 meters

Despite the challenges, the stunning views of the Salkantay glacier and the exhilaration of conquering the pass make this day a highlight of the trek.

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Day 3: Santa Teresa Valley, Aguas Calientes

What follows the challenging Day 2 hike is a long day trek into the Santa Teresa Valley, eventually reaching the town of Aguas Calientes.

The day begins with breakfast, then trekking through lush forests and valleys. The distance covers 25 km (15 miles) and takes 9-10 hours to complete.

Hikers will experience:

1. Traversing the scenic Santa Teresa Valley.
2. Arriving at the town of Aguas Calientes, the gateway to Machu Picchu.
3. Checking into a hotel in Aguas Calientes, where the temperature is warm and tropical.
4. Preparing for the final journey to the iconic Machu Picchu the following day.

Day 4: Exploring Machu Picchu

After the long trek, trekkers reach the final day of their Salkantay Trek adventure – exploring the iconic Machu Picchu.

They can either hike the scenic trail (1.5 hours) or take the bus ($12) to access the ancient citadel.

Once there, they’ll embark on a 2.5-hour guided tour with a professional guide, learning about the fascinating history and architecture of this Inca wonder.

Trekkers have the freedom to explore Machu Picchu on their own afterward, taking in the stunning vistas and seeing the site’s mystique.

Inclusions

The Salkantay Trek package includes a comprehensive set of services to ensure a seamless and memorable experience. This trek offers:

1. Entrance tickets to both Machu Picchu and the enchanting Humantay Lagoon.

2. Pre-departure briefing to provide detailed guidance on the trek, ensuring you’re well-prepared.

3. Comfortable accommodations, including a mountain cabin and a hotel in Aguas Calientes.

4. All meals throughout the trek, with vegetarian and vegan options available to cater to diverse dietary needs.

Plus, the package includes the services of professional English and Spanish-speaking guides, a support team of muleteers and horses, and comprehensive transportation arrangements to and from the starting point.

Weather and Preparation

During the trek, travelers can expect cold and windy nights, particularly during the dry season. The weather forecast suggests temperatures can drop to as low as -5°C (23°F) in the higher elevations. To prepare, it’s essential to pack appropriate gear such as warm base layers, insulated jackets, and weatherproof outerwear.

Season	Temperature	Precipitation
Dry (May-Sept)	-5°C to 10°C	Low
Wet (Oct-Apr)	0°C to 15°C	High

Trekkers should also bring accessories like gloves, hats, and sturdy hiking boots to stay comfortable throughout the journey. Proper preparation will ensure a safe and enjoyable Salkantay Trek experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Store My Luggage During the Trek?

Yes, trekkers can store their extra luggage at the tour operator’s office in Cusco during the trek. This allows them to travel light and focus on the hiking experience.

Are There Any Restrictions on the Type of Backpack?

There are no strict restrictions on the type of backpack you can use for the trek. However, it’s recommended to pack light and use a comfortable, well-fitting backpack that won’t weigh you down during the hike.

What Is the Best Way to Acclimate Before the Trek?

To best acclimate before the trek, it’s recommended to spend a few days in Cusco or the Sacred Valley. This allows the body to gradually adjust to the higher altitude, reducing the risk of altitude sickness during the hike.

Can I Rent Hiking Poles or Trekking Gear?

Yes, trekking poles and other essential gear can be rented for the trek. The tour includes sleeping bags, water bottles, and a first aid kit, though hikers can bring their own preferred equipment.

How Much Spending Money Should I Bring for the Trek?

For the trek, travelers should budget around $50-$100 per day for additional expenses like snacks, tips, and personal purchases. The package includes most essentials, but some extra spending money will ensure a comfortable and enjoyable experience.

Recap

The Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu offers an unforgettable adventure through the stunning Andes mountains. Trekkers will be immersed in diverse landscapes, from glacial lakes to challenging mountain passes, before reaching the iconic Machu Picchu. With experienced guides, accommodations, and meals included, this 4-day trek is a perfect blend of natural beauty, cultural history, and thrilling exploration for fit adventurers.

You can check if your dates are available here: