Salkantay Trek 4 Days to Machu Picchu
The Salkantay Trek 4 days is perfect for those seeking a deep connection with nature while exploring the rich history of the Andes. This journey will take you from majestic snow-capped mountains like the imposing Salkantay to the lush subtropical jungle surrounding Machu Picchu. Along the way, you will discover the magical Humantay Lake with its turquoise waters and enjoy landscapes of incomparable beauty.
The Salkantay Trek is an excellent alternative to the classic Inca Trail, as it offers more freedom and diversity of landscapes. Additionally, it has been recognized as one of the 25 best treks in the world by National Geographic Adventure Travel magazine. This trip is ideal for nature lovers, couples, adventurers, and anyone seeking a unique experience in the Andes.
ITINERARY
We will pick you up from your hotel at 5:00 a.m. to start a panoramic journey to Mollepata, where we will have our first stop for breakfast. During the bus ride, you will enjoy spectacular views of the Salkantay and Humantay snow-capped mountains, as well as the fertile Andean valleys.
From Mollepata, we will continue to Challacancha, the starting point of our hike. After meeting our support team and organizing the equipment and mules, we will begin our walk to Soraypampa. As we ascend, the mountainous landscapes combine with views of crystal-clear rivers and high-altitude forests.
In the afternoon, we will hike up to the famous Humantay Lake (4,200 meters above sea level). This 3-hour round trip offers an impressive landscape, culminating in a turquoise lake at the foot of the glacier. Upon returning to Soraypampa, we will enjoy a hot dinner and spend the night in a camp under the stars.
- Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
- Accommodation: Camp in Soraypampa
- Maximum Altitude: 4,200 meters above sea level
- Distance Covered: 10 km (6 hours)
- Difficulty: Moderate
We will wake up early to enjoy a mate de coca while we prepare for the most challenging day of the hike. We will start the ascent to the Salkantay Pass (4,650 meters above sea level), the highest point of the trek. This section offers breathtaking views of the glaciers and surrounding mountains, as well as a sense of achievement upon reaching the summit.
After a brief rest at the pass, we will begin the descent to Huayracmachay, where we will enjoy a comforting lunch. We will continue descending to Chaullay, passing through a cloud forest full of exotic flora and fauna, such as orchids and tropical birds.
- Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
- Accommodation: Camp in Chaullay
- Maximum Altitude: 4,650 meters above sea level
- Distance Covered: 19 km (10 hours)
- Difficulty: Difficult
We will start the day by walking through the tropical jungle, where we will explore coffee plantations, fruit, and other local crops. During the journey, we will learn about the coffee production process and have the chance to taste organic coffee grown by the local community.
We will continue to Lucmabamba, where transport will take us to Hidroeléctrica. Here, we will enjoy a lunch, then walk along the train tracks to Aguas Calientes, the base town of Machu Picchu. This final section offers views of waterfalls and the Urubamba River.
- Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
- Accommodation: Hotel in Aguas Calientes
- Distance Covered: 16 km (6 hours)
- Difficulty: Moderate
We will wake up early to take one of the first buses to Machu Picchu and witness the sunrise at the majestic Inca citadel. We will have a 2-hour guided tour to explore the main temples, terraces, and plazas, learning about the history and architecture of the site.
After the tour, you will have free time to explore on your own or take the optional ascent to Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain (requires an additional ticket). In the afternoon, we will take the train back to Ollantaytambo and then a bus to Cusco, where our adventure will conclude.
- Meals: Breakfast
- Optional: Ascent to Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain
INCLUDED
- Official guide
- Entrance to Salkantay and Machu Picchu (Circuit 2)
- Private transport from Cusco to the start of the hike and back
- Hotel in Aguas Calientes
- High-quality camping equipment (tents, mats, sleeping bags)
- Full meals (vegetarian and other dietary options available)
- Horses for transporting equipment (up to 7 kg per person)
- First aid kit
NOT INCLUDED
- Lunch on Day 4
- Personal trekking equipment (poles, backpacks, etc.)
- Tips for the team
PACKING LIST
What to Bring to the Salkantay Trek 4 Days
- Original passport and ISIC student card (if applicable).
- Waterproof trekking shoes and sandals.
- Warm clothing (thermal underwear, fleece, hat, gloves, socks).
- Waterproof clothing (poncho).
- Synthetic or cotton clothing (socks, pants, shorts, t-shirts).
- Sun hat and sunglasses.
- Sunscreen and insect repellent.
- Reusable water bottles.
- Personal medications.
- Trekking poles.
- Swimsuit and towel.
- Personal snacks.
- Personal items needed for 4 days.
- 100% Secure Payment
- Cusco, Peru
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From 2 people
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Reviews
At Travel Peru Agency, your satisfaction comes first. The reviews on TripAdvisor reflect the trust of those who have explored Peru with us and lived authentic, safe, and memorable experiences. Each journey inspires us to keep sharing the best of this incredible destination.
Wilfredo and his team are true professionals.
We had a great time, they were super punctual and safe, and the whole team treated us wonderfully.
Thank you so much for everything.
Thank you! ☺️ We'll be back soon! 😁
We really enjoy our stayed in the Jungle Tambopata national reserve
We saw alots wild animals and boat rides were really cool
I recommend to this Tour Agency
Thanks you folks!!
