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

Price

From$295

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919

Length.

4 Days, 3 Nights.

Group.

Min 1, Max 16.

Trip Style.

Trekking, Adventure.

Difficulty.

Moderate, Challenging.

Overview

Follow the Path of the Incas: 4-Day Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu.

Embark on a remarkable journey through the heart of the Andes with the Salkantay Trek 4 Days Classic. This extraordinary expedition to Machu Picchu takes you off the beaten track of the Inca Trail
Experience the vast biodiversity of the region and the dramatic changes in climate and topography.

Looking for a truly unique and authentic adventure?

The Salkantay Trek – 4 Day Classic Treks offers an unforgettable journey through some of the most breathtaking landscapes in the Peruvian Andes far from the crowds of the traditional Inca Trail.

This incredible trek takes you along ancient paths surrounded by towering peaks such as: Salkantay and Humantay, through dramatically changing ecosystems, from snowy mountains to lush cloud forests. It’s a chance to reconnect with nature, immerse yourself in Andean culture, and challenge yourself in the best way possible.

End your adventure at the legendary Machu Picchu, one of the Seven Wonders of the Modern World and experience it with a deeper sense of connection and accomplishment.

Highlights:

Humantay Lake: Start your journey at this stunning turquoise glacial lake surrounded by majestic mountains.
Salkantay Pass (4,600 m): Reach the highest point with breathtaking views of snowy peaks.
Diverse landscapes: Traverse cloud forests, green valleys, and high mountains all in one trek.
Living culture: Join traditional Andean rituals led by local shamans.
Local communities: Discover rural life and ancient traditions firsthand.
Machu Picchu: Finish with a guided tour of the iconic Inca citadel.
Optional hikes: Climb Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain for unique views (advance booking required).

Salkantay Trek 4 Days – At a Glance.

Day 1: Cusco Mollepata – Challacancha – Soraypampa.

Travel from Cusco to Challacancha. Hike to stunning Humantay Lake, then relax in cozy cabins overnight.

Day 2: Soraypampa – Salkantay Pass – Colpa pampa.

Enjoy a warm drink in your tent before conquering the stunning Salkantay Pass. Rest in comfortable Andean domes at the Collpapampa campsite.

Day 3: Colpa pampa – Hidrolectrica – Aguas Calientes.

hike through the lush cloud forest and travel by local transport to the hydroelectric station. After lunch, enjoy a scenic walk along the railway tracks to Aguas Calientes. Overnight accommodation will be in a hostel in Aguas Calientes.

Day 4: Aguas Calientes – Machu picchu Tour – Cusco.

Rise early and hike to Machu picchu Citadel to avoid the crowds. After exploring the iconic citadel, take the train back to Cusco.

Inclusions

Safety Briefing before the trek: The tour guide will brief you the day before the excursion at around 7:00 p.m. Please let us know where you will be staying in Cusco.
Hotel Pick up,:We will pick you up from your hotel starting at 4:30 a.m.
Transport from : Cusco to Challacancha ( starting point of the excursion) .
Professional English/Spanish speaking tour guide: Spanish, English and Quechua speaking guides will accompany you during the excursion, to immerse you in the history, culture and conclude 2 hours and 30 minutes guide tour in Machu picchu.
Entry tickets to the Salkantay Trek and Machu Picchu : Generally, the Machu Picchu entrance ticket is scheduled for 7:00 or 8:00 a.m.: CIRCUIT 02 (subject to availability) and, alternatively, CIRCUITS 01 and 03 (subject to availability). During the high season, tickets can be difficult to get, but don’t worry: we are here to help you get them in Aguas Calientes.
Meals:Enjoy nutritious meals during the excursion (3 breakfasts, 3 lunches and 3 dinners), with a free vegetarian option upon request in advance.
Expert local chefs: We have experienced cooks trained in adventure and mountain cooking. We use new kitchen equipment and kitchenware, as well as a dining tent with portable chairs and tables.
Muleteers & horses to carry : This experienced team will transport all necessary gear and supplies on horses or mules, so you can enjoy the trek without having to carry heavy loads.
Duffel Bag: At the pre-trek briefing, you will receive a duffel bag for up to 5 kg of belongings. Our team will transport it by horse, and you can collect it at the campsites. This allows you to hike comfortably with only your daypack. At the end of the trek, please return the duffel bag to our office or leave it at your hostel in Cusco.
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:Meals: Breakfast on the first morning and lunch on the last day after Machu Picchu.
Entrance ticket to Humantay Lagoon:On day one, you will visit Humantay Lagoon. The entrance fee is 20 soles ($6) for foreigners and 10 soles ($3) for Peruvians, payable in cash to the local government in Mollepata.
Transportation (Day 3): From La Playa (Lucmabamba) to Hidroeléctrica After lunch, you will take local transport to Hidroeléctrica (40–50 soles, paid directly). Then you will begin the three-hour walk to Aguas Calientes.
Round Trip bus tickets from: Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu – Aguas Calientes. You can purchase them in Aguas Calientes or after visiting the site. Each way costs US$12. Alternatively, you can walk- it's about 1 hour and 30 minutes each way.
Drinking Water: We don’t provide water for refilling bottles, but hot or cold water is available during meals. You can buy bottled water from local shops (2.5L costs 5–12 soles), or bring a water filter or purification tablets to safely drink mountain water.
Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain Hike: $70 USD (optional, upon request). After the main tour, you can hike up Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain.
Sleeping bag: If you don't have a sleeping bag, you can rent one from us. The sleeping bags we have are specially designed to keep you warm during the trek, where temperatures can be as low as -10°C. The rental cost is 40 soles (10 dollars) for the whole trip
Internet Conection: You won't get any mobile signal from 8:30 a.m. on the first day until the second day. if you need at first camp site internet access, you can get Wi-Fi for 10 soles. After the third day, you'll usually have mobile signal and internet access.
Gratuities for Guides and Staff : Tips for guides, drivers, horsemen, and staff are not included. Tipping is optional but appreciated. While the trek team may expect tips, it is entirely up to you. We want to emphasize that tipping is voluntary, not mandatory.
Travel Insurance: We would advise acquiring one in your country of residence, as obtaining travel insurance in Peru can be Difficult .
Aguas Calientes Hot springs: If you would like to relax in the thermal baths in Aguas Calientes, there is a small entrance fee of 20 soles per person. You can pay this fee upon arrival.
Return options from Machu Picchu (not included): Bus option $15 / Train option $75.

What to Bring

Original Passport Required: It is very important that you travel with your original passport – copies are not accepted. Make sure it is valid for at least six months after your travel dates and has at least two blank pages for entry and exit stamps.
Student ID: If booking as a student, you must show a valid ID (under 25, with photo, personal info, university name, and valid through December 31 of the travel year) to receive the discount.
Hold all your tickets on hand: Make sure you have all your tickets—Trains, Entrance, Buses and any others. Either print them out or download them to your phone for easy access.
Good-Quality Daypack: It’s essential to have a comfortable, lightweight, and compact backpack to carry your belongings during the trek. A good-quality daypack makes it easier to keep your essentials handy without weighing you down.
Botle water or Camel Bag: The bottle needs to hold 2 litres of water. It is important to choose a water bottle that can keep your water cold.
Trekking poles: We really recommend them for the Salkantay Trek and they are very useful. You can rent them from us.
Hiking water proof boots: with ankle protectors
Sleeping bag: when you buy a sleeping bag find one that is big enough for you. and put it in a waterproof bag so it doesn't get wet on the hike. also we recommend sleeping bags that can keep you warm down to -10°C. You can also rent sleeping bags from us.
Head lamp: This equipment is essential for anyone taking the Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu. You can also bring a torch.
Emergency money: Please remember to bring extra money for any emergencies that might happen on the trip. is ideal to bring 300 soles/90 dollars and in cash.

Pricing

Cancellations Polices, Payment, Reservation Policies and Reservation money deposit.

We will not be able to book or confirm your excursion or trek without the following information:

We require a copy of each traveler’s passport. You can send it via WhatsApp to +51984751486 or email perutravelcompany@gmail.com
A deposit is required to confirm your reservation. This secures all your trek services and covers the cost of your Machu Picchu ticket.
Please note: That Machu Picchu tickets are personal, non-refundable and non-transferable, and cannot be modified once issued.

The non-refundable deposit is 50% per person. You also have the option of paying 100%, which covers the full cost of the excursion. A 6% transaction fee applies to both amounts. You can make your payment via the link on our website. Payments can be made with PayPal or a credit card.
Cancellations:

Cancellations and date changes are not accepted. No refunds are issued, and the deposit will be forfeited in case of cancellation or date change.
Your deposit is not for our benefit; it is used to purchase your Machu Picchu ticket, which is non-refundable and non-changeable once issued.
The deposit covers the pre-arrangement of the Salkantay Trek, including the reservation of services such as transportation, meals, camping, and staff.
These arrangements must be made in advance to ensure a smooth and high-quality trekking experience.
Your deposit is used to confirm bookings with our suppliers, and these bookings are also non-refundable.
If you cancel or change the bookings, you will lose your deposit, because these are real commitments to real people, not placeholders.
We take these arrangements seriously because once you reserve a space, it is no longer available to other tour operators.
Thank you for your understanding.

What Are the Requirements to Obtain the Student Discount?

To qualify for the student discount on the Machu Picchu entrance ticket, you must meet the following requirements:

Be 25 years old or younger.
Present a physical, original student ID (digital versions are not accepted).
The ID must be issued by an official university or academic institutions
The card must clearly display:

Your full name
University name
Photo
Current enrolment year or a valid expiry date (must be valid at the time of your visit)
Please note: that ISIC cards and online enrolment certificates are not accepted by the Peruvian government for this discount.

Once you book , please send us a clear photo or scan of your student ID so that we can apply for the discount on your behalf.

Salkantay Trek Prices:

IMPORTANT INFORMATION: The published price of US$ 295 does not include return transportation by train or car. You decide which option you want to take and we take care of the arrangements.

There are two ways to return from Machu Picchu:

Choose how you would like to return to Cusco after visiting Machu Picchu, according to your preferences and budget.

PRICES:

Return by car: US$ 15
Return by Train: US$ 75
Take a look and think about which options might be best for you.

Return by Minibus from Hidroeléctrica (Economic Option)
If you decide to take the minibus back to Cusco, you must start walking back from Machu Picchu to the Hidrolectrica station at 11:00 am.

The walking takes three hours, the first part is a 30-40 minute descent and the second 2 hours on flat ground next to the railway tracks.

You must be at Hidroelectrica between 14:00 and 14:30 PM, the minibus ride to Cusco takes approximately seven hours. Arrival time is around 22:00, the minibus will drop you off in the centre of Cusco.

Return by Train from Aguas Calientes (Comfortable Option)
The train usually leaves at 14:30, 14:55 and 15:20, depending on availability.
To catch the train you will need to take a bus (25 minutes) or walk (1 hour) from Machu Picchu down to Aguas Calientes.

Once at Aguas calientes Town, you can spend some time exploring the town or have lunch, but you must be at the train station 30 minutes before departure.

The train takes 1 hour 45 minutes to Ollantaytambo, from where you will be taken by minibus for 1 hour 40 minutes back to Cusco.At the end you will be dropped off at the Plaza Regocijo near the main square.

Up-Grade to Vistadome Train.

If you choose the return train option, the price includes the Expedition or Voyager service, both with panoramic windows for panoramic views.

For a more immersive experience, you can upgrade to the Vistadome or 360 Inca Rail train, which features a glass roof and onboard entertainment, including traditional dancing and live music.

This upgrade costs US$145.00 per person.

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 going to hike the salkantay trekking, it’s essential to prepare your backpack and duffel bag in advance. we recommend bringing one or two large backpacks.
for the 4 days trek, carry only the essentials any extra items or luggage can be safely stored at your hotel in cusco or in our secure storage room.

what to pack in your personal Backpack?

During the days on the trek, Remember, you will be carrying your backpack with you for the entire trek, so you should carry a light, comfortable and good quality backpack. due to regulation issued by the local government, your backpack should not exceed 25 litres in sixe and large bags are not allowed to be carried inside Machu picchu, if you have one make sure that your largae backpack looks as small as possicle to carry inside Machu picchu.

here, we give you the list of items which you have to carry in your personal backpack.

Hats and sunglasses: The sun is intense at high altitude and you should protect your eyes from the glare. Wear one that offers UV protection and is comfortable.

Rain gear: The trail can be wet especially in the rainy season. Have quality gear and clothing with materials such as Gore-tex that will keep your skin dry while you perspire during the hike.

Warm clothing: During the Salkantay trek, where the temperature fluctuates during the day and night, it is mandatory to have good clothing equipment such as: fleeces, long-sleeved shirts, down jackets and a waterproof layer.

Sunscreen: Choose a good sunscreen (high factor) and apply it before starting the hike and regularly during the day if you are sweating.

Hand sanitizer: Carry a good hand sanitizer to disinfect hands before eating, drinking and after using the bathroom. We recommend carrying a small bottle of hand sanitizer throughout the day.

Headlamp: carrying a headlamp is especially useful for those who hike the Inca Trail because it keeps your hands free for other tasks. It is useful to choose a headlamp for brightness, weight and comfort.

Snacks: bring snacks that are rich in energy and easy to digest. This, because chocolate bars or cookies are not ideal, as they can be heavy for the stomach and leave you with an impression of sluggishness, so we recommend taking granola bars or a mixture of nuts which will give enough energy to perform the walk.

Extra money: take money preferably in soles for drinks, tips and souvenirs: during the excursion you will find facilities or bathrooms where you will have to pay for the use of some of them, especially the first day.

What to pack in your personal Duffel bag?

We will provide you with a duffel bag to pack your belongings that you don’t need during the day, the horses/mules will carry the duffel bag, and please note that it must have a maximum weight of 5 Kg, including your sleeping bag. The duffel bag will be provided to you one day before the trek at your hotels or our office.

Sleeping bag: if you don’t have one, you can rent it from us; also if you want to buy it it has to have the estimated weight of 2 kilos and remember to pack it in a plastic bag to keep it during the excursion, we recommend a -10°C sleeping bag.
Rain Gear: The trail can be wet especially in the rainy season. Have quality gear and clothing with materials such as Gore-tex that will keep your skin dry while you perspire during the hike
Warm jacket: The weather during the excursion fluctuates and can drop sharply during the day and night, so it is essential to bring layers of clothing for the sun and a waterproof outer layer in case of rain or snow
4 to 5 T-shirts: Absorbent T-shirts that dry quickly are recommended. Synthetic fabrics such as polyester or nylon are the best choice, as they will hold sweat and dry quickly, avoid cotton shirts as they retain moisture and cause chafing and are difficult to dry
2 to 3 trekking pants: there are a variety of types of trekking pants one of them is the cargo pants which have large pockets on the side of the legs and the convertible pants have legs that zipper at the knee, those are ideal especially in hot climates or changing conditions during the trail for women leggings or leggings work perfectly
4 pairs of underwear: wearing a sports bra and compression shorts will be helpful and keep you comfortable to avoid chafing. If you are hiking in cold weather, wear thermal underwear that will keep you warm
Snacks: bring snacks that are rich in energy and easy to digest. This, because chocolate bars or cookies are not ideal, as they can be heavy for the stomach and leave you with an impression of sluggishness, so we recommend taking granola bars or a mixture of nuts which will give enough energy to perform the walk
Extra money: take money preferably in soles for drinks, tips and souvenirs: during the excursion you will find facilities or bathrooms where you will have to pay for the use of some of them, especially the first day.

Itinerary

Day 1Cusco - Humantay Lake - Soraypampa.

The excursion begins with an early pick-up from your hotel between 4:30 and 5:00 AM, heading toward Mollepata. After a brief stop for breakfast (not included), you’ll drive for about an hour to Challacancha (3,380 m), where the trek officially begins.

You’ll then hike for about two hours to reach Soraypampa (3,900 m), arriving at approximately 1:30 PM, where you’ll have lunch and set up camp. Afterwards, you’ll embark on a one-hour and twenty-minute hike to the stunning Humantay Lake (4,220 m). Once there, you’ll have plenty of time to explore the area before descending back to the Soraypampa campsite.

In the evening, you’ll enjoy tea time followed by dinner, then settle in for the night in comfortable huts, resting and preparing for the next day’s adventure.

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 2Soray Pampa - Colpa pampa .

Morning Ritual: Wake up to coca tea served outside your hut, followed by breakfast.

Ascent to Salkantay Pass: Begin the day’s trek towards the majestic Salkantay Mountain, culminating at the Salkantay Pass (4,600 meters). Enjoy snacks while soaking in the history and breathtaking views of the surrounding peaks.

Descent to Colpapampa: After the pass, descend for 2 hours to our lunch spot, then continue trekking down to Colpapampa (2,900 meters), today’s campsite.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.
Accommodation: Camping (huts/tents)
Difficulty: Challenging.
Walking Time: 9–10 hours
Hiking Distance: 24km / 14.9 mi
Campsite Altitude: 2,770 m / 9,087 ft
Highest Altitude: 4,600 m / 11,5091 ft

Day 3 Colpapampa - Hidrolectrica - Aguas Calientes.

Biodiversity Descent: The morning begins with a leisurely 4-hour descent to Sayhuyaco Beach. Hike through increasingly lush terrain, entering the highland jungle where the climate is warmer and biodiversity flourishes.

Trek to Aguas Calientes: After lunch, take a 2-hour bus ride to Hidroeléctrica, followed by a captivating 3-hour hike along the train tracks to Aguas Calientes. This trail runs parallel to the Vilcanota River, offering serene views and a chance to reflect on the journey.

Afternoon Arrival: Check into your hostel around 5-6 PM, where you can relax and prepare for the next day’s visit to Machu Picchu.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Camping (tents)
Walking Time: 5 to 6 hours.
Difficulty: Moderate.
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 -Cusco.

Early Ascent to Machu Picchu: Depart early for the bus ride up to Machu Picchu, arriving in time to witness the spectacular sunrise over the ancient city.

Guided Tour of Machu Picchu: Explore the iconic Inca citadel through a guided tour, learning about its historical significance, architecture, and mysteries.

Free Time and Return to Cusco: After the tour, enjoy some free time to explore further or relax. In the afternoon, descend to Aguas Calientes to board the train back to Ollantaytambo. From there, a bus will take you back to Cusco, marking the end of an unforgettable adventure.

Meals: Breakfast
Walking Time: 3 hours, exploring Machu Picchu.
Machu Picchu Altitude: 2,430 m / 7,972 ft
Difficulty: Easy

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 – Classic.