
Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu 4-Days
This 4-day trek offers a condensed version of the full Salkantay experience, ideal for travelers with limited time who still want to enjoy the stunning landscapes and cultural richness of the Andes. You’ll hike through diverse ecosystems, from snow-capped mountains to lush cloud forests, and culminate your journey at the awe-inspiring Machu Picchu.
FROM
U$D 430.00 Per Person
Why Choose This 4-Day Salkantay Trek?
Short and Efficient: Perfect for those who want to experience the Salkantay Trek in a condensed time frame.
Diverse Landscapes: From snow-capped peaks and glacial lakes to tropical jungles and ancient ruins.
Unique Stops: Includes highlights like Humantay Lake, Salkantay Pass, and the vibrant cloud forest.
Comfort and Adventure: A mix of camping and hotel stays ensures both adventure and rest.
Cultural Connection: Learn about local traditions, flora, and fauna from expert guides.
This 4-day trek is an unforgettable journey through Peru’s most iconic landscapes, ending with the magical experience of Machu Picchu.
Detailed Itinerary:
Day 1:
Cusco – Mollepata – Soraypampa – Humantay Lake (3,900 m / 12,795 ft)
4:30 AM: Pickup from your hotel in Cusco. Enjoy a scenic 2 hour drive to Mollepata, where you’ll have breakfast and meet the trekking team.
Morning: Begin your hike from Soraypampa, gradually ascending through picturesque valleys surrounded by snow-capped peaks.
Midday: Arrive at Soraypampa base camp, where you’ll enjoy a freshly prepared lunch.
Afternoon: Hike up to the stunning Humantay Lake (approx. 2 hours round trip). Admire the turquoise waters reflecting the towering Humantay Glacier.
Evening: Return to camp for a warm dinner. Spend the night in tents under a sky filled with stars.
-Hiking Distance: 12 km (7.5 miles)
-Difficulty: Moderate
-Highlight: Visit to the breathtaking Humantay Lake
Day 2:
Soraypampa – Salkantay Pass – Chaullay (2,900 m / 9,514 ft)
5:00 AM: Wake up to coca tea and a hearty breakfast.
Morning: Begin the challenging ascent to the Salkantay Pass (4,650 m / 15,255 ft). This section offers incredible views of the Salkantay Glacier and surrounding peaks. At the top, take a moment to appreciate the breathtaking scenery and place a stone at the Apacheta, a traditional offering site.
Midday: Start your descent through changing landscapes, from rugged highlands to lush cloud forests.
Afternoon: Arrive at Chaullay campsite, where you’ll enjoy a hot dinner and a well-deserved rest
•Hiking Distance: 23 km (13.7 miles
•Difficulty: Challenging
•Highlight: Salkantay Pass, the trek’s highest and most scenic point
Day 3:
Chaullay – La Playa – Hidroeléctrica – Aguas Calientes (2,040 m / 6,693 ft)
6:00 AM: Start the day with coca tea and breakfast.
Morning: Trek through the cloud forest, passing coffee plantations, waterfalls, and diverse flora and fauna. Learn about the local coffee-making process and, if time permits, taste freshly brewed organic coffee.
Midday: Arrive at La Playa and enjoy lunch. From here, a van will take you to Hidroeléctrica (approx. 1 hour).
Afternoon: Hike along the train tracks to Aguas Calientes (approx. 3 hours), passing lush scenery and hearing the sounds of the rushing river.
Evening: Check into your hotel, enjoy dinner at a local restaurant, and prepare for the big day at Machu Picchu.
-Hiking Distance: 18 km (11.2 miles)
•Difficulty: Moderate
•Highlight: Immersion in the vibrant cloud forest
Day 4:
Aguas calientes— Machu Picchu – Cusco
4:30 AM: Wake up early for breakfast
Morning: Enjoy a 2-hour guided tour of the ancient citadel, learning about its history, architecture, and spiritual significance. After the tour, explore the site on your own or climb Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain (if pre-booked).
Midday: Return to Aguas Calientes for lunch.
Afternoon: Board the scenic train back to Cusco, where your adventure ends.
Highlight: Visiting the iconic Machu Picchu, a UNESCO World Heritage
What’s Included:
Professional Guides: Knowledgeable, bilingual guides who ensure safety and provide fascinating insights into the region’s history, culture, and wildlife.
Comfortable Accommodation:
•Night 1: Camping at Soraypampa (under the stars, with warm sleeping bags)
•Night 2: Camping at Chaullay (a cozy campsite surrounded by lush greenery).
•Night 3: Hotel in Aguas Calientes (comfortable9room with a private bathroom)
Delicious Meals: Freshly prepared Andean cuisine (breakfast, lunch, dinner, and snacks) to keep you energized throughout the trek.
Transportation:
•Private vehicle from Cusco to Soraypampa.
•Van from La Playa to Hidroeléctrica.
•Scenic train ride from Aguas Calientes to Cusco.
Machu Picchu Entry: Includes a guided tour of the ancient citadel.
Camping Equipment: Quality tents, sleeping mats, and kitchen gear.
Extras: Hot tea or coca tea served in your tent each morning to start the day.