Experience the adventure of the Salkantay Trek in 4 days from Cusco to Machu Picchu
Embark on an exhilarating 4-day adventure through the majestic Salkantay, one of the most spectacular routes to Machu Picchu. This trek combines high mountain landscapes, turquoise lagoons, and lush Andean valleys with a deep connection to nature and local culture. Hike across the Salkantay Pass, surrounded by glaciers and snow-capped peaks, and explore picturesque Andean villages and scenic cloud forests along the way. Each day offers breathtaking panoramas and opportunities to immerse yourself in local traditions. The journey culminates in Aguas Calientes and a visit to the majestic citadel of Machu Picchu. Perfect for adventurers seeking a challenging trek, stunning scenery, and an authentic Andean experience.
We will begin our adventure with hotel pickup in Cusco at 4:00 a.m. Then we will travel to the town of Mollepata, where we will enjoy an energizing breakfast.
Next, we will continue to Soraypampa to do an acclimatization hike to the beautiful Humantay Lagoon, surrounded by stunning snow-capped mountains.
After the visit, we will proceed to Salkantay Pampa, where we will have lunch. In the afternoon, we will continue hiking to Huayracmachay, where we will set up our camp and enjoy dinner for the night.
Very early, at 5:30 a.m., we will enjoy a coca leaf tea to start the day energized. Afterwards, at our Huayracmachay camp, we will have breakfast.
Then we will continue the hike descending into the cloud forest, crossing beautiful landscapes until we reach Chaullay, where we will enjoy a well-deserved lunch.
In the afternoon, we will proceed to Lucmabamba, where our camp is located. There, we will savor a delicious dinner and participate in a cultural demonstration about the coca leaf, highly valued in Andean tradition.
Very early, at 5:30 a.m., we will start the day with an energizing coca leaf tea. Then we will begin the hike to the Llactapata viewpoint, a walk of approximately 4 hours with spectacular views of the high jungle and the majestic Machu Picchu from a distance.
Afterwards, we will descend to the Hydroelectric Plant, where we will enjoy lunch and say farewell to our porters. From there, we will take the train to the town of Aguas Calientes.
Upon arrival, we will check into the hotel and in the evening share a dinner, preparing for the big day of visiting Machu Picchu.
After a restful night, we will start the day with breakfast at the hotel. Our guide will pick you up to head to the Consetur bus station, with an approximate 30-minute ride to the entrance of the majestic Inca Citadel of Machu Picchu.
We will enjoy a 3-hour guided tour, visiting the most important areas and learning about the history and mystery of this wonder of the world.
After the tour, we will return to Aguas Calientes where you will have free time for lunch (lunch not included). Afterwards, we will board the train to Ollantaytambo and finally a private transfer will take us back to the city of Cusco.
| Price | $800.00 |
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To make the most of your experience hiking to Machu Picchu via the Salkantay 4D/3N route, we suggest bringing the following:
For your Salkantay 4D/3N trek to Machu Picchu, remember to bring the following:
It is one of the most popular trekking routes to Machu Picchu, famous for its natural beauty and diverse landscapes: glaciers, lagoons, cloud forest, and Andean villages. It is considered an alternative to the Inca Trail.
The short version lasts 4 days and 3 nights, hiking on average 6 to 8 hours per day, reaching Machu Picchu on the last day.
The difficulty level is moderate to challenging. The highest point is the Salkantay Pass (4,650 meters above sea level). Good physical condition and prior acclimatization in Cusco are recommended.
It includes transportation from Cusco, full meals, camps or domes, horses to carry belongings, bilingual guide, camping equipment, entrance tickets, and the final visit to Machu Picchu.
It is not mandatory, but physical endurance is required. It is recommended for adventurous travelers accustomed to long mountain hikes.
The best season is between April and October (dry season). During the rainy season (November to March), the trails can be more slippery.
It is recommended to bring warm and light clothing, waterproof poncho, trekking boots, poles, headlamp, small backpack, water bottle, sunscreen, and insect repellent.
Yes, during the first days you can rent horses to carry your luggage or even to ride on the more demanding parts, for an additional cost.
Yes, the tour includes a professional bilingual guide who accompanies you throughout the journey, providing cultural, historical, and natural information about the route.
Yes, as long as it is done with an authorized agency. Guides are trained in first aid and a first aid kit and emergency equipment are available throughout the trek.
The agency requires a 50% deposit of the total cost of the contracted services. This deposit can be made through any of the authorized payment methods. The remaining balance must be paid 15 days before your arrival in Peru.
If you choose this option, please increase the deposit amount by $24 (bank commission). This is the fee our bank charges for each international transfer.
Accounts in US Dollars and Soles:
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If you choose this option, please increase the deposit amount by $24 (bank commission).
We accept all major cards via payment link. A 5% commission applies to the total amount.
Calle Nueva Baja 585, Primer Piso Oficina 1,
Cusco, Cusco, Perú
📞 +51 968 163 793
✉ sales@vicunaexpeditions.com
Maximum Altitude: 4,650 m a.s.l. (Salkantay Pass)
Duration: 4 days / 3 nights
Group Size: Minimum 2 people
Physical Level: Moderate to challenging
Travel Style: Adventure / Nature / Hiking
Type of Accommodation: Camping and tourist hotel