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The Salkantay Trek 4 day to Machu Picchu, stands out as one of the most breathtaking and fulfilling trekking experiences in Cusco, Peru. It is a fantastic alternative to the classic Inca Trail. This unforgettable trek takes you through stunning high altitude Andean landscapes, where you’ll encounter snow capped peaks, deep valleys, and lush cloud forests, all while steering clear of the usual tourist crowds. With knowledgeable local guides who speak Quechua, you’ll dive into the rich Andean culture, explore ancestral traditions, and discover the spiritual significance of the awe inspiring Salkantay Mountain.
why choose the Salkantay Trek 4 day to Machu Picchu?
Over the course of this 4 day adventure, hikers traverse a variety of ecosystems, from alpine terrains with glacial vistas to tropical jungle paths brimming with exotic plants and wildlife. Along the way, you’ll wander through remote Andean villages, get a taste of authentic local life, and soak in breathtaking views at every turn. The trek culminates in a spectacular arrival at Machu Picchu, one of the Seven Wonders of the World, making the Salkantay Trek a perfect mix of adventure, culture, and nature.
Recognized by National Geographic Adventure Travel Magazine as one of the 25 best treks globally, the Salkantay Trek is perfect for those seeking a genuine hiking experience in Peru. If you are after an adventurous route to Machu Picchu that offers fewer tourists, stunning landscapes, and a deep dive into local culture, this trek is just what you need, Salkantay Trek 4 day to Machu Picchu
Pick-up: 4:30 – 5:00 AM from your hotel in Cusco.
Shuttle: 2-hour drive to Mollepata town for breakfast and to meet our muleteers and horses.
Drive: 45 minutes to Challacancha, the start of the hike.
The first day is moderate and mainly on flat terrain, ideal for acclimatization. Enjoy stunning Andean landscapes, snow-capped peaks, streams, and dwarf forests. After lunch and rest, continue hiking for about 2 hours to reach the campsite in Soraypampa (around 3:00 PM).
Optional excursion to Humantay Lake, a turquoise lagoon surrounded by majestic snowy mountains—an unforgettable Andean experience.
Start the day with a hot drink in your tent. Today is the most challenging and rewarding day of the trek. Hike uphill for approximately 4 hours to reach the Salkantay Pass (4,600 m / 15,092 ft), the highest point of the trek, surrounded by breathtaking Andean mountains.
Learn about Inca history and Andean cosmology from your guide. After lunch and a brief rest, descend for about 4 hours through lush high jungle landscapes, streams, and tropical flora until reaching the second campsite at Chaullay.
After breakfast, hike through cloud forests and tropical landscapes. Spot unique plants like bromeliads, orchids, and ferns. Arrive at Playa Sahuayaco, where a car will transfer you 2 hours to Hidroelectrica for lunch and rest.
From Hidroelectrica, continue a 3-hour hike along the train tracks to Aguas Calientes, the gateway to Machu Picchu. Overnight stay in a comfortable hostel, ready for the final day.
Wake up early to visit Machu Picchu, one of the New 7 Wonders of the World and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Beat the crowds and enjoy a 2-hour guided tour of this incredible Inca city. Learn about its engineering marvels, stonework, canals, and the sustainable urban design of the Incas.
Optional: Hike Huayna Picchu (50 min up and down) or Machu Picchu Mountain (2 or 3 hours). After exploring, enjoy lunch in Aguas Calientes (optional) and visit the hot springs, local museum, or artisan market.
Return to Cusco by train from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo, then a private bus to Cusco (arrival ~8:00 PM).
Transfer from the airport to your hotel (Cusco only)
Briefing at our office; It will be done the night before your trek at 6:00pm
Hotel pick up
Private transportation from Cusco to challacancha (company van)
Horseman , mules or porters (they just carry cooking stuff and camping equipment)
Thick Comfortable Foam Mattresses
camping cabins
Entrance ticket to Machu Picchu Archaeological
Professional English speaking guides experienced in trekking
Meals as indicated in the itinerary (optional: vegetarian or other dietary needs upon request)
First-aid kit including emergency oxygen tank
6 kg luggage allowance to be carried by our horses (you will trek only with your day pack which is way more confortable than carrying a big bag!)
Expedition Tourist Train from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo and private transportation to Cusco(company van)
Entrance ticket to Machu Picchu Archaeological
1 night accommodation in a hostal Aguas Calientes(private room,cable tv, wi fi)
2 Hour Guided tour in Machu Picchu
Dining and cooking tents with tables and chairs
Chef and cooking equipment
Food: 3 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 3 afternoon snacks (hot drinks, biscuits and popcorn) and 3 dinners
Breakfast on first day and lunch on the last day in the village aguas calientes.
Entra horse to ride
Entrance ticket to Wayna picchu $60.00
Entrance ticket to Machu picchu $60.00
Sleeping bag $ 20.00
walking sticks
Bus ticket from Aguas calientes to Machu Picchu (optional) $ 24 usd round trip ( one way $12 usd and you can buy it at the Aguas Calientes bus station).
A light day pack with a change of clothes for the whole period of the trek – prepare for a vast range of changes in temperature
Rain gear (jacket and pants if available) or rain poncho. Plastic ponchos can be bought for about $1 in Cusco
Strong footwear, waterproof trekking boots recommended. Extra socks are a must.
Small backpack
Sandals or plastic slip on thongs are also good to give your feet a chance to breath in the evenings if you wish to carry them.
Warm clothes, including jacket, fleeces, gloves, scarf and beanie/touk. Thermal clothing is also recommended, especially for sleeping. * This is a particularly cold trek, you should make sure you have a lot of very warm clothes.
Sleeping bag (we can hire these to you)
Torch/ Flashlight and spare batteries
Camera, batteries (batteries consume more quickly under cold conditions)
Hat or cap to protect you from the sun, rain and cold
Sun block
After-sun cream or hydrating cream for face and body
Toilet paper, pack in & pack out
Snacks: biscuits, energy bars, chocolate, raw fruits, muesli, etc.
Non-disposable canteen (Nalgene type) and water for the first morning.
We advise you to bring water sterilizing tablets in case you collect water from streams.
Your own medical kit with any special medications that you might require, paracetamol, second skin for blisters etc.
Small towel or sarong
Insect Repellent 40 % deet ( for mosquitos )
Walking poles
Bathers/swimsuit (if you intend on swimming in hot springs )
Cash – sufficient for snacks, tips and souvenirs.
Original passport & ISIC (International Student Identity Card) if you have one.
