+51 984 751 486 perutravelcompany@gmail.com Cuesta Santa Ana N° 701 and siete cuartones Nº 245

Price

From$295

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Length.

4 Days, 3 Nights.

Group.

Min 1, Max 16.

Trip Style.

Trekking, Adventure.

Difficulty.

Moderate, Challenging.

Overview

Salkantay Trek 5 Days to Machu Picchu is the ultimate alternative to the Inca Trail in Peru. Travelers experience an unforgettable journey through the Andes, visiting the stunning Humantay Lake and crossing the majestic Salkantay Mountain. This Peru hiking tour offers breathtaking landscapes, from snow-capped peaks to lush cloud forests, combined with authentic cultural encounters. Ideal for those seeking scenic trekking routes and unique Machu Picchu experiences.

Highlights:

Humantay Lake: Start your journey at the stunning turquoise Humantay Lake, surrounded by majestic Andes mountains.
Salkantay Pass (4,600 m): Reach the highest point of the trek with breathtaking views of snow-capped peaks and dramatic landscapes.
Diverse Landscapes: Hike through glaciers, cloud forests, and lush valleys on one of Peru’s most scenic trekking routes.
Culture & Traditions: Experience authentic Andean culture, local communities, and traditional spiritual rituals along the way.
Machu Picchu Finale: End your adventure at Machu Picchu, exploring the iconic Inca citadel with a guided tour.
Optional Hikes: Upgrade your visit with Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain (advance booking required).

At a Glance

Duration: 4 Days / 3 Nights of unforgettable adventure through the heart of the Andes, combining stunning nature, living culture, and breathtaking landscapes on the way to Machu Picchu.
Departure & Return: Cusco, Peru – start your journey from the historic capital of the Inca Empire and return with lifelong memories of an epic mountain experience.
Tour Type: Adventure & Eco-Cultural Trek – a perfect blend of high-altitude hiking, diverse ecosystems, and authentic Andean traditions.
Difficulty: Moderate to Challenging – ideal for active travelers seeking a rewarding trek with high mountain passes and varied terrain.
Accommodation: Stay in cozy mountain cabins, scenic Andean domes, and comfortable local hostels for a warm and relaxing rest after each trekking day.
Meals Included: 3 Breakfasts, 3 Lunches, 3 Dinners – enjoy freshly prepared traditional Andean cuisine designed to energize your adventure.

Inclusions

Pre-Trek Briefing: Meet your guide in Cusco at 7:00 p.m. the day before departure for a full briefing. Please share your hotel details for coordination.
Hotel Pickup & Transportation: Hotel pick-up in Cusco at 4:30 a.m. and transport to Challacancha, the starting point of the Salkantay Trek 4 Days.
Professional Guides: Certified English, Spanish, and Quechua-speaking guides accompany you throughout the trek. Includes a 2.5-hour guided tour at Machu Picchu with full cultural and historical explanations.
Entrance Tickets: Machu Picchu entrance ticket included (usually Circuit 02, subject to availability). Alternative circuits (01 or 03) may apply depending on season.
Meals & Chefs: Includes 4 breakfasts, 4 lunches, and 4 dinners prepared by expert local chefs. Vegetarian options available on request. Meals served in comfortable dining tents.
Muleteers & Horses: Experienced muleteers carry all camping equipment and supplies on horses, allowing you to hike with only a light daypack.
Duffel Bag Service: A 5 kg duffel bag is provided for personal belongings and transported by horses between campsites.
Acomodations day 1- Soraypampa Glass cabins: Stay in our amazing glass cabins designed for two people.
Acomodations day 2 - Colpapampa Domes :Enjoy the comfort of private domes for two people.
Acomodations day 3 - Aguas calientes hostel : Stay in a comfortable hostel with Wi-Fi, a private bathroom, hot water, and breakfast. Upgrades to higher-quality hotels are available upon request.

Excludes

Meals: Breakfast on Day 1 and lunch after the Machu Picchu tour on Day 4 are not included.
Humantay Lake Entrance Fee: On Day 1, entrance to Humantay Lake is not included (approx. 20 soles for foreigners / 10 soles for Peruvians, paid in cash in Mollepata).
Day 3 Local Transport: After lunch in La Playa (Lucmabamba), transport to Hidroeléctrica is not included (approx. 40–50 soles, paid locally).
Bus Tickets (Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu): Round-trip bus tickets are not included (US$12 per way). Tickets can be purchased in Aguas Calientes or you may hike (approx. 1.5 hours each way).
Drinking Water: Water is not included for refilling bottles. Bottled water is available along the route (approx. 5–12 soles). Filters or purification tablets are recommended.
Optional Hikes: Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain hike is optional (US$70, subject to availability and advance booking).
Sleeping Bag Rental: Sleeping bags are not included but available for rent (40 soles / US$10 for the full trek). Designed for temperatures down to -10°C.
Internet Connection: No mobile signal from Day 1 morning until Day 2. Limited Wi-Fi available at some campsites (approx. 10 soles). Signal returns on Day 3.
Gratuities (Tips): Tips for guides, chefs, muleteers, and staff are not included. Tipping is optional and based on your satisfaction.
Travel Insurance: Not included. We strongly recommend purchasing travel insurance in your home country before arrival.
Aguas Calientes Hot Springs: Entrance to the hot springs is optional (approx. 20 soles per person, payable on arrival).
Return Options from Machu Picchu: Bus: US$15 (not included) Train: US$75 (not included)

What to Bring

Original Passport (Required): You must travel with your original passport (copies are not accepted). It must be valid for at least 6 months and have at least 2 blank pages for stamps.
Student ID (if applicable): To receive student discounts, bring a valid ID (under 25 years old, with photo, personal details, university name, and valid for the travel year).
Tickets & Documents: Keep all travel documents with you (train tickets, entrance tickets, bus tickets). Digital or printed copies are accepted.
Good Quality Daypack: A lightweight and comfortable backpack is essential for carrying daily items during the Salkantay Trek 4 Days.
Water Bottle / Camelback: Bring a reusable bottle or hydration system (minimum 2 liters recommended). Insulated bottles are ideal for mountain conditions.
Trekking Poles (Recommended): Highly recommended for stability on the Andes trails. Available for rent if needed.
Hiking Boots: Waterproof trekking boots with ankle support are essential for safety and comfort on uneven terrain.
Sleeping Bag: Bring a warm sleeping bag rated up to -10°C. Waterproof protection is recommended. Rental options are available.
Headlamp or Torch: Essential for early mornings and nighttime movement in campsites.
Emergency Cash: Carry at least 300 soles / 90 USD in cash for emergencies, local purchases, or optional expenses during the trek.

Pricing

Reservations, Payments & Cancellation Policy

Booking Requirements:

To confirm your Salkantay Trek 4 Days, we require:

A copy of each traveler’s passport (sent via WhatsApp or email)
A valid reservation deposit to secure your space and Machu Picchu entrance ticket

Without this information, bookings cannot be confirmed.

Payment & Deposit:

A 50% non-refundable deposit per person is required to confirm your reservation. You may also choose to pay 100% upfront. A 6% transaction fee applies (PayPal or credit card available).

Please note: that Machu Picchu tickets are personal, non-refundable, and non-transferable once issued.

Your deposit is used to secure:

Machu Picchu entrance tickets
Transportation, guides, meals, and camping services
Local suppliers and logistics (non-refundable bookings)

Cancellations & Changes:

All cancellations and date changes are not permitted. No refunds are issued once the reservation is confirmed, as all services and permits are prepaid and non-refundable.

Student Discount Requirements

To qualify for the student discount on Machu Picchu tickets, you must:

Be 25 years old or younger
Present a valid physical student ID (no digital versions)
ID must show: name, photo, university, and valid enrollment date
ISIC cards and online certificates are not accepted
After booking, please send a clear copy of your student ID for verification.

Return Options from Machu Picchu

Important: The base price does NOT include return transport.

Budget Option (Bus + Minibus) – US$15

Walk from Machu Picchu to Hidroeléctrica
Minibus return to Cusco (~7 hours)
Arrival in Cusco around 10:00 PM

Comfortable Option (Train) – US$75

Train from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo
Transfer by minibus back to Cusco
Total travel time ~4–5 hours

Train Upgrade – Vistadome / 360 Experience

Upgrade your return train for US$145 per person, featuring panoramic windows, entertainment, and scenic views of the Andes.

What to Pack

Packing List - 4 Days Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu.

F.A.Q. ¿What should I pack in my backpack?

If you are planning to hike the Salkantay Trek 4 Days, it is important to prepare your backpack and duffel bag in advance for a comfortable experience.

We recommend bringing one lightweight daypack for daily essentials such as water, snacks, jacket, camera, and personal items. Your main luggage will be transported separately by our team.

For the trek, carry only the essentials. Any extra luggage can be safely stored at your hotel in Cusco or in our secure storage facility before starting the Salkantay Trek.

What should I carry in my daypack?

During the Salkantay Trek 4 Days, you will carry your personal daypack with essential items. Due to local regulations, your backpack must not exceed 25 liters, and large bags are not allowed inside Machu Picchu. Please ensure your backpack is lightweight, compact, and comfortable.

Sun Protection: Bring a hat and UV-protection sunglasses. At high altitude, the sun is intense and protection is essential.

Rain Gear: Weather in the Andes can change quickly. Carry waterproof clothing (Gore-Tex or similar) to stay dry during the trek.

Warm Clothing: Temperatures vary greatly between day and night. Pack fleece, long-sleeve shirts, a down jacket, and a waterproof outer layer.

Sunscreen & Hygiene: Use high-SPF sunscreen and reapply during the day. Carry hand sanitizer for hygiene before meals and after bathroom use.

Headlamp: A headlamp is essential for early mornings and nighttime at campsites. It allows hands-free movement in low light conditions.

Snacks: Bring high-energy, easy-to-digest snacks such as nuts or granola bars. Avoid heavy sugary snacks that may reduce energy during hiking.

Extra Cash: Carry cash (preferably in Peruvian soles) for drinks, tips, toilets, and small purchases along the route, especially on Day 1.

What is included in the duffel bag service?

We provide a duffel bag for your Salkantay Trek 4 Days, where you can store items not needed during the day. Our muleteers transport it between campsites using horses and mules.

The maximum weight allowed is 5 kg (including sleeping bag). The duffel bag is delivered to your hotel or office one day before departure.

Sleeping Bag: Sleeping bags are not included but can be rented or purchased from us. We recommend a -10°C sleeping bag (approx. 2 kg). Please pack it in a waterproof plastic bag to protect it during the trek.}

Rain Gear: Weather in the Andes can change quickly. Bring waterproof clothing (Gore-Tex or similar) to stay dry during rain or snow.

Warm Jacket & Layers: Temperatures vary greatly. Bring layered clothing including a warm jacket and waterproof outer layer for cold nights and high-altitude sections.

Clothing: 4–5 quick-dry T-shirts (avoid cotton)
2–3 trekking pants (cargo or convertible recommended)
Breathable, moisture-wicking fabrics such as polyester or nylon are ideal

Underwear: Bring 4 pairs of underwear. Sports underwear or compression shorts are recommended to avoid chafing. Thermal underwear is useful in cold conditions.

Snacks: Bring lightweight, high-energy snacks such as nuts or granola bars. Avoid heavy sugary foods that reduce energy during hiking.

Extra Cash: Carry cash in Peruvian soles for drinks, toilets, tips, and small purchases along the route, especially during the first days of the trek.

Itinerary

Day 1Cusco – Humantay Lake – Soraypampa

Your adventure begins with an early morning pick-up from your hotel in Cusco between 4:30 and 5:00 AM. You’ll travel through the stunning Andean landscapes toward Mollepata, with a short stop for breakfast (not included) along the way.

Continue by transport for approximately one hour to Challacancha (3,380 m), where your Salkantay Trek 4 Days officially begins.

From here, enjoy a scenic 2-hour hike to Soraypampa (3,900 m), where you will arrive around 1:30 PM. A freshly prepared lunch will be served as you settle into your campsite surrounded by breathtaking mountain views.

In the afternoon, begin a rewarding 1 hour 20 minute hike to the spectacular Humantay Lake (4,220 m) — one of the most iconic highlights of the trek. Take time to explore, take photos, and enjoy the turquoise waters framed by snow-capped peaks before returning to camp.

Back at Soraypampa, relax with tea time followed by dinner, then rest in comfortable mountain huts, preparing for the next day’s high-altitude challenge.

🍽️ Meals: Lunch, Dinner
🏕️ Accommodation: Camping (huts / tents)
⚡ Difficulty: Moderate
🚶 Walking Time: 4 – 5 hours
📏 Hiking Distance: 12 km / 7.5 mi
🏔️ Campsite Altitude: 3,850 m / 12,631 ft
⛰️ Highest Altitude: 4,200 m / 13,779 ft

Day 2Soraypampa – Salkantay Pass – Collpapampa

Start your day in the heart of the Andes with a warm coca tea delivered to your hut, followed by a nourishing breakfast to prepare for the most challenging and rewarding day of the Salkantay Trek 4 Days.

Begin a steady ascent toward the majestic Salkantay Mountain, crossing dramatic high-altitude landscapes until you reach the incredible Salkantay Pass (4,600 m) — the highest point of the entire trek. Take time to rest, enjoy snacks, and admire breathtaking panoramic views of snow-capped peaks and sacred Andean mountains.

After celebrating your achievement, begin a scenic 2-hour descent to the lunch spot, surrounded by changing ecosystems and mountain valleys. Continue trekking down into the lush transition zone of the Andes until you arrive at Collpapampa (2,900 m), your campsite for the night.

Relax in comfortable mountain accommodation, enjoy a well-earned dinner, and rest under the stars after an unforgettable day of high-altitude adventure.

🍽️ Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
🏕️ Accommodation: Camping (huts / tents)
⚡ Difficulty: Challenging
🚶 Walking Time: 9 – 10 hours
📏 Hiking Distance: 24 km / 14.9 mi
🏔️ Campsite Altitude: 2,770 m / 9,087 ft
⛰️ Highest Altitude: 4,600 m / 15,091 ft

Day 3 Collpapampa – Hidroeléctrica – Aguas Calientes

Begin your day with a beautiful descent through the Andean cloud forest, entering one of the most biodiverse sections of the Salkantay Trek 4 Days. The trail gradually transforms from high mountains into lush jungle, where warmer temperatures and rich vegetation create a completely new landscape experience.

Enjoy a scenic 4-hour hike to Sayhuyaco Beach, surrounded by waterfalls, tropical plants, and vibrant wildlife. This section offers a peaceful connection with nature as you move deeper into the high jungle.

After lunch, continue your journey with a 2-hour drive to Hidroeléctrica, followed by a memorable 3-hour hike along the railway tracks toward Aguas Calientes. This iconic trail runs parallel to the Vilcanota River, offering calm, scenic views and a reflective final stretch before reaching Machu Picchu town.

Arrive in Aguas Calientes around 5:00–6:00 PM, check into your hostel, and enjoy a well-deserved rest as you prepare for the highlight of your adventure: Machu Picchu.

🍽️ Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
🏕️ Accommodation: Hostel
⚡ Difficulty: Moderate
🚶 Walking Time: 5 – 6 hours
📏 Hiking Distance: 12 km / 7.5 mi
🏔️ Campsite Altitude: 2,750 m / 9,022 ft
⛰️ Highest Altitude: 4,200 m / 13,779 ft

Day 4 Aguas Calientes - Machu picchu - Train Return to Cusco

You start your final day of the Salkantay Trek very early, around 4:00 a.m. Begin with a 30-minute flat walk followed by a 1-hour ascent to reach Machu Picchu in time for sunrise.

You will witness the unforgettable sunrise as the first light illuminates the ancient terraces, temples, and stone structures. Then enjoy a 2-hour guided tour exploring Inca history, architecture, and culture.

After the visit, you descend to Aguas Calientes. You can either walk (approx. 1.5 hours through jungle trails) or take the bus (30 minutes, optional).

You will have free time for lunch and rest before your return journey.

Later, board the scenic train to Ollantaytambo (1h 40min), enjoying breathtaking views of the Sacred Valley, rivers, and mountains.

Finally, continue by private transport back to Cusco (approx. 1h 30min), completing your unforgettable Andes adventure.

🍽️ Meals: Breakfast
⚡ Difficulty: Easy
🚶 Walking Time: ~3 hours (guided exploration)
🏛️ Machu Picchu Altitude: 2,430 m / 7,972 ft

Day 4 Aguas Calientes - Machu Picchu - Car or Van Return to Cuscco.

Start your final day of the Salkantay Trek at 4:30 a.m. with an early hike: a 30-minute flat walk followed by a 1-hour ascent to reach Machu Picchu in time for sunrise over the Andes.

Enjoy the unforgettable sunrise as the first light illuminates the ancient terraces, temples, and stone structures. Then take a 2-hour guided tour exploring Inca history, architecture, and culture.

After your visit, descend towards Hidroeléctrica on a 3-hour trek through lush jungle and Sacred Valley landscapes.

From Hidroeléctrica, board the return bus to Cusco, departing around 2:00–2:30 p.m. and arriving at the city center around 10:00–10:30 p.m. (approx. 7 hours total travel time).

Optional upgrade: You can choose a more immersive route by hiking from Machu Picchu to Hidroeléctrica (3 hours) and returning via private van to Cusco (approx. 6 hours).

Photos

Gallery

FAQs

1.What is the altitude range and walking time for each day of the trek?

The altitude range varies throughout the trek, reaching a maximum of 4,600 meters at Salkantay Pass on Day 2 and descending to lower altitudes as the trek progresses. Walking time ranges from 4 to 5 hours on Day 1 to 9 to 10 hours on Day 2.

2.What type of accommodation is provided during the trek, and are there any single occupancy options available?

Accommodation during the trek includes camping in either huts or tents, providing comfortable shelter for participants. Single occupancy options may be available upon request, although they may come with additional charges.

3.Are meals included throughout the trek, and are there vegetarian/vegan options available?

Yes, meals are included throughout the trek, including breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Vegetarian and vegan options are typically available, and dietary preferences can be accommodated with prior notice.

4.How is transportation arranged back to Cusco after visiting Machu Picchu?

After visiting Machu Picchu on Day 4, participants have the option to either take a train to Ollantaytambo and then a bus back to Cusco, or to walk back to Hidroelectrica and catch a direct bus to Cusco. Both options offer convenient and comfortable transportation back to the starting point.

5.Are there any optional activities available during the trek, and what are they?

Yes, there are optional activities available during the trek. On Day 4, participants can choose to ascend either Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain for panoramic views of the citadel and the surrounding landscape.

1 Review

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Michael B.

Solo Traveller

I had an unforgettable experience on this Salkantay trek to Machu Picchu! The adventure started with an early pickup and a scenic drive to Challacancha. The trek to Soraypampa was challenging but rewarding, and the optional hike to Humantay Lake was an absolute highlight. The camp accommodations were comfortable, and the meals provided were delicious and nourishing.

Crossing the Salkantay Pass was an exhilarating experience, with stunning views that made the effort worthwhile. The descent through the high jungle to La Playa Sayhuyaco was beautiful, and the final walk along the railroad tracks to Aguas Calientes was a serene end to the trek. The guided tour of Machu Picchu was insightful, and the entire journey was well-organized and memorable. Highly recommended for anyone looking to explore the beauty and history of Peru!

August 22, 2022

Salkantay Trek 4 Days to Machu Picchu – Escape the Crowds and Experience the Real Andes