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

Price

From$295

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1512

Length.

4 Days, 3 Nights.

Group.

Min 1, Max 16.

Trip Style.

Trekking, Adventure.

Difficulty.

Moderate, Challenging.

Overview

Embark on a 4-day Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu, widely considered the best alternative to the Inca Trail in Peru. Travelers experience an unforgettable high-Andes adventure, crossing the impressive Salkantay Mountain and visiting the stunning turquoise Humantay Lake. This Peru hiking tour offers diverse landscapes, from snow-capped peaks and rugged passes to lush cloud forests and tropical valleys. Along the route, travelers enjoy authentic cultural encounters with local communities, making the journey both scenic and meaningful. Perfect for adventure seekers, this trek combines natural beauty, challenge, and a unique approach to Machu Picchu, one of the world’s most iconic destinations.

Highlights:

Humantay Lake: The journey begins at the stunning turquoise Humantay Lake in the Peruvian Andes.
Salkantay Pass (4,600 m): Travelers reach the highest point of the Salkantay Trek with panoramic mountain views.
Diverse Landscapes: The route crosses glaciers, cloud forests, and Andean valleys on a scenic Peru trekking experience.
Andean Culture: Visitors experience authentic Andean communities, traditions, and local culture.
Machu Picchu: The trek ends with a guided tour of the iconic Machu Picchu Inca citadel.
Optional Hikes: 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 in Cusco (preparation + safety instructions)
Hotel pick-up in Cusco (Cusco city center)
Private tourist transport to the starting point or trailhead (comfortable and safe travel)
Professional bilingual guide (English, Spanish & Quechua)
Machu Picchu Tickets: Entry is usually at 7:00 or 8:00 AM for Circuit 2 (or Circuits 1 or 3). Tickets are limited, so booking early is recommended.
Meals + chef: 4 breakfasts, 4 lunches, and 4 dinners with vegetarian options, prepared by expert chefs at the campsite.
Duffel Bag Service: You only carry your daypack; we provide a 5 kg duffel bag, which is transported by horse to the 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.
Muleteers + horses: An experienced team transports all equipment and supplies on horses or mules, allowing you to enjoy the trek without carrying heavy loads.

Excludes

Meals: Breakfast on Day 1 / Lunch and dinner on the last day after visiting Machu Picchu.
Humantay entrance fee: 20 soles (foreigners) / 10 soles (Peruvians). Cash payment in Mollepata.
Local Transport: La Playa (Lucmabamba) to Hidroeléctrica not included; 40–50 soles on-site.
Hot springs: Aguas Calientes (20 soles), payable on-site.
Round-trip bus between Aguas Calientes and Machu Picchu
Sleeping bag: 30 soles (rated to -10°C), available for rent from us.
Gratuities: Tips for guides, drivers, and staff not included (optional but appreciated).
Travel insurance: Not included, it is recommended to purchase it independently.
Internet: No signal from Day 1 (8:30 a.m.) to Day 2; Wi-Fi at first campsite (10 soles). Signal returns on Day 3.
Return from Machu Picchu: by car (~$15) or train (~$75), we will help you purchase and organize it separately.
Optional hike: Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain ($70 USD; on request).

What to Bring

Original passport: Required (valid for at least 6 months and 2 blank pages). Copies are not accepted.
Student ID (if applicable): required for student fares (up to 25 years old).
Personal medication: Bring any required medication and a basic first aid kit.
Insect repellent: Minimum 15% DEET recommended.
Light backpack: Small, comfortable, and suitable for hiking.
Trekking poles: Recommended for the Salkantay Trek; also available for rent.
Waterproof trekking shoes: With ankle support for greater safety on mountain terrain.
Water container: At least 2L capacity (bottle or CamelBak recommended).
Sleeping Bag (-10°C / 14°F): 40 soles (comfort rating up to -10 °C), available for rent from us.
Headlamp: Essential for early morning hikes or nighttime use at the campsite.
Emergency cash: Recommended 300 soles or 90 USD in cash.

Itinerary

Day 1Cusco – Humantay Lake – Soraypampa

You will be picked up from your hotel in Cusco between 4:30 and 5:00 a.m. and enjoy a scenic drive through the Andean mountains to Mollepata, where you will make a short stop for breakfast (not included). You will then continue for approximately one hour to Challacancha (3,380 m / 11,089 ft), the official starting point of your Salkantay Trek.

Upon arrival, you will begin a 2-hour moderate hike to Soraypampa (3,900 m / 12,467 ft), walking through breathtaking Andean landscapes with views of glaciers, valleys, and snow-capped peaks. Once there, you will enjoy a well-deserved lunch and settle into your campsite surrounded by nature.

In the afternoon, you will hike for approximately 1 hour and 20 minutes to Humantay Lake (4,220 m / 13,779 ft), one of the most spectacular highlights of the trek. You will have time to take photos, admire the turquoise waters, and enjoy the impressive glacier scenery before returning to Soraypampa.

In the evening, you will relax with hot tea, enjoy a hearty dinner, and rest at your campsite, preparing for the next day of your unforgettable Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu.

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

You will wake up early and enjoy coca tea and breakfast, preparing for the most challenging day of the trek. You will hike toward the Salkantay Pass (4,600 m / 15,092 ft), the highest point of the journey. From here, you will experience unforgettable panoramic views of snow-capped mountains, glaciers, and vast Andean valleys.

After spending time at the pass, you will descend for approximately 2 hours to Wayracmachay (3,800 m / 12,467 ft), where you may spot vizcachas, native Andean rodents. You will then continue descending for around 3 hours into the lush cloud forest, arriving at Colpapampa (2,899 m / 9,514 ft) or Chaullay. Along the way, the landscape changes dramatically, with warmer temperatures, greener scenery, and abundant tropical flora.

You will end the day resting in comfortable Andean domes or local accommodations, surrounded by the peaceful atmosphere of the cloud forest.

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 Chaullay - Colpapampa – Hidroeléctrica – Aguas Calientes

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

You will enjoy a scenic 3 to 4 -hour hike to Sayhuayaco “La playa”, surrounded by waterfalls, tropical plants, and vibrant wildlife, offering a peaceful connection with nature in the high jungle.

After lunch, you will continue with a 2-hour drive to Hidroeléctrica, followed by a 3-hour hike along the railway tracks toward Aguas Calientes. This iconic route runs alongside the Vilcanota River, offering calm and scenic views as you approach Machu Picchu town.

You will arrive in Aguas Calientes around 5:00–6:00 p.m., check into your hostel, and enjoy a well-deserved rest while preparing for the highlight of your journey: Machu Picchu.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Hostel
Difficulty: Moderate
Walking Time: 5 – 7 hours
Hiking Distance: 16 km / 7.5 mi
Campsite Altitude: 2,750 m / 9,022 ftHighest Altitude: 4,200 m / 13,779 ft

Day 4 Aguas Calientes -Machu Picchu - Train or Bus Return to Cusco.

You will start the day early with breakfast in Aguas Calientes before heading to the Machu Picchu Historical Sanctuary, the highlight of your Salkantay Trek 4 Days and one of the most iconic archaeological sites in the world.

You will have two options to reach the entrance: a 1.5-hour hike through scenic mountain trails or a bus ride (approximately $12), both offering stunning views of the cloud forest and Andean landscape. Upon arrival, you will meet your professional guide and begin a guided tour of Machu Picchu, exploring its main temples, terraces, ceremonial plazas, and ancient water fountains while learning about the history, culture, and engineering of the Inca civilization.

For those seeking extra adventure, optional hikes to Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain offer breathtaking panoramic views over the citadel and surrounding Andes.

After the visit, you will return to Aguas Calientes for lunch and then continue your journey back to Cusco by train through the Sacred Valley, arriving between 5:00 and 6:00 p.m. Alternatively, you may return via Hidroeléctrica by bus, with a travel time of approximately 7 hours. This marks the end of your unforgettable 5-day Salkantay Trek through the Peruvian Andes.

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

Price: $ 295

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.

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