Service:
Premium
Type of Activity:
Type of walk:
Private Tour & Semi-Private Tour
Level:
The 4-Day Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu is one of the most impressive trekking routes in Cusco, ideal for those seeking adventure, natural landscapes, and Andean culture. This hike connects the Humantay Lagoon, the Salkantay snow-capped mountain, and highland jungle areas, all the way to Aguas Calientes.
The 4-Day Salkantay Trek includes a guide, meals, camping, and transportation. It is an excellent alternative to the Inca Trail, which is less crowded but equally spectacular. Perfect for travelers looking for an authentic Andean experience.
ITINERARY
DAY 1 CUSCO – MOLLEPATA – SORAYPAMPA – LAGUNA HUMANTAY
Salkantay Trek 4 Days to Machu Picchu
- Pickup in Cusco: Between 4:30 and 5:00 a.m. from your hotel. Departure by tourist transport to the town of Mollepata (2,900 m above sea level).
- Breakfast in Mollepata: Brief stop for breakfast, snacks, or equipment rental (walking poles, ponchos, etc.).
- Transfer to Soraypampa: Start of the trek in Soraypampa (3,900 m above sea level), a base point overlooking the Salkantay peak.
- Hike to Humantay Lagoon: A 1.5- to 2-hour ascent to Humantay Lagoon (4,200 m above sea level), with free time to enjoy the scenery, rest, and take photographs.
Lunch at camp: Return to Soraypampa, where a hot lunch will be prepared by the group chef. - Free afternoon and dinner: Time to acclimatize, meet the group, and enjoy dinner overlooking the mountain range.
Walking distance: 8-10 km
Weather: Cold with wind at night
Minimum altitude: 2,900 m
Maximum altitude: 4,200 m
Overnight: Camp in Soraypampa (domes or tents)
DAY 2 CHAULLYA-SAHUAYACO BEACH-CUSCO
Salkantay Trek 4 Days to Machu Picchu
- Early breakfast: Depart before 6:00 a.m. for the most challenging day of the trek.
- Ascent to the Salkantay Pass: A 3- to 4-hour hike to the Salkantay Pass (4,630 m above sea level), the highest point of the trek, with panoramic views of the Salkantay Mountain (6,271 m), considered a sacred Apu by the Andean people.
- Descent to Huayracmachay: A short rest at the summit, then descent to the intermediate camp for lunch.
- Final stretch to Chaullay: We continue the hike through cloud forests and streams until we reach Chaullay (2,900 m above sea level), the gateway to the highland rainforest.
Distance hiked: 20–22 km
Minimum altitude: 2,900 m
Maximum altitude: 4,630 m
Weather: Cold in the morning, mild in the afternoon
Overnight: Camp in Chaullay
DAY 3: CHAULLAY – COLLPAPAMPA – SAHUAYACO BEACH – SANTA TERESA (OPTIONAL)
Salkantay Trek 4 Days to Machu Picchu
- Breakfast at camp. Hike through the jungle edge, passing through Collpapampa, with tropical landscapes, coffee plantations, orchids, rivers, and waterfalls.
- Arrival at Sahuayaco Beach: Lunch near this rural community, where many rest or continue by shuttle to Santa Teresa (optional).
- Option: Cocalmayo Hot Springs: In the afternoon, optional transfer to the hot springs to enjoy a relaxing soak in natural pools surrounded by mountains.
- Group dinner and rest.
Walking distance: 15–16 km
Minimum altitude: 2,064 m
Maximum altitude: 2,900 m
Climate: Hot and humid
Overnight: Camp or stay in Santa Teresa
DAY 4 SANTA TERESA – HYDROELECTRIC – AGUAS CALIENTES – CUSCO
Salkantay Trek 4 Days to Machu Picchu
- Early breakfast: Option to continue hiking from Santa Teresa or transfer by car to the hydroelectric station.
- Hike to Aguas Calientes: Route through the jungle, parallel to the train tracks, crossing bridges, waterfalls, and natural tunnels, until reaching Machu Picchu Pueblo.
- Free lunch and time in the town: You can browse the artisan market or relax in a local cafe.
- Return to Cusco: In the afternoon, train to Ollantaytambo and tourist transportation to Cusco. Estimated arrival: 9:00 PM – 10:00 PM.
Walking distance: 10–12 km
Minimum altitude: 1,800 m
Maximum altitude: 2,040 m
Climate: Temperate
Overnight: Not included (return to Cusco at night)
INCLUDES
Includes – Salkantay Trek 4 days / 3 nights
Transportation:
- Pickup from your hotel in Cusco (central area)
- Private tourist transportation from Cusco to Mollepata to Soraypampa
- Transfer by tourist train from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo
- Land transportation from Ollantaytambo to Cusco at the end of the tour
Guide and Assistance:
- Professional certified high mountain guide, bilingual (Spanish and English)
- Permanent assistance throughout the tour
- Brief information and cultural sessions about the route, the sacred mountains, and the Andean worldview
Accommodation:
- 1 night in a high mountain dome or tent in Soraypampa
- 1 night at a campsite in Chaullay, deep in the jungle
- 1 night at a campsite or basic accommodation in Santa Teresa (depending on availability and the group’s itinerary)
Meals:
- 3 breakfasts, 3 lunches, and 3 dinners prepared by a trekking chef
- Light snacks during the treks
- Vegetarian, vegan, or special diet options (with prior arrangement)
Camp Logistics:
- Pack horses or mules to carry up to 7 kg per person
- Double tents, thermal mats, dining tent, and kitchen tent
- Tables, chairs, camping utensils, and tableware
- Boiled water for refilling bottles (starting on the second day)
Security:
- Complete first aid kit
- Portable emergency oxygen
- Radio communication with the base team
Tickets and Access:
- Official entrance fee to the Salkantay Trek route
- Return train ticket (tourist category, Expedition service, or similar)
NOT INCLUDED
Not Included – Salkantay Trek 4 Days / 3 Nights
Admission fees and optional activities:
- Admission to Machu Picchu (only included if the tour is extended to 5 days)
- Admission to Cocalmayo Hot Springs (approx. S/10.00)
- Admission to Aguas Calientes Hot Springs (optional, last day)
Personal equipment:
- High-altitude sleeping bag (available for rent)
- Trekking poles (optional rental)
- Thermal clothing, trekking shoes, headlamp, personal backpack
Meals not included:
- Breakfast on the first day
- Lunch and dinner in Aguas Calientes (day 4)
Other:
- Tips for guides, cooks, and muleteers (voluntary, but recommended)
- Travel, cancellation, or accident insurance (not mandatory, but highly recommended)
- Bottled drinks, additional snacks and souvenirs
FAQs
Frequently Asked Questions – Salkantay Trek 4 Days / 3 Nights
1. What is the maximum altitude of the Salkantay Trek?
On the second day of the Salkantay Trek, you will reach the highest point of the route: the Salkantay Pass, located at 4,630 m above sea level. This section is challenging due to the altitude, so it is recommended to acclimatize for at least two days in Cusco before starting the trek.
2. Is trekking experience necessary?
It is not mandatory, but it is recommended. The 4-day Salkantay Trek is a moderate to demanding trek, ideal for people in good physical condition and with previous experience on long or high-altitude hikes.
3. What is the best time to take the Salkantay Tour?
The best season for the 4-day Salkantay Tour is from April to October. During these months, the weather is dry and the landscape is clear. During the rainy season (November to March), trekking is still available, but waterproof equipment is required.
4. Can I do the Salkantay Trek with children?
Yes, but it is not recommended. This Salkantay route has challenging sections, so it is only recommended for minors with trekking experience and good physical endurance. It is not suitable for young children or untrained older adults.
5. How much luggage can I carry on the Salkantay Trek?
The tour includes luggage transport by mule, with a maximum of 7 kg per person (including a sleeping bag). You must also carry a small backpack with water, snacks, and personal items during each day of the trek.
6. Is it possible to do the Salkantay Trek without a guide?
Although some try it, it is not recommended to do the Salkantay Trek on your own. The route crosses remote areas, with varying weather conditions and no constant signage. The safest and most efficient option is to hire an operator with a professional guide, equipment, and logistics.
7. Is there cell phone service on the Salkantay Trek?
There is no cell phone service or internet access for most of the route. Some areas, such as Santa Teresa or Aguas Calientes, have partial service or Wi-Fi at lodgings, but not during the main treks.
8. Does the 4-day Salkantay Tour include Machu Picchu?
Not in all cases. Most 4-day tours end in Aguas Calientes without entry to Machu Picchu. If you wish to visit the citadel, you must book the 5-day Salkantay Trek, which does include admission, a guide, and a complete tour.
9. Are special meals offered during the Salkantay Trek?
Yes. The 4-day Salkantay Tour operators offer vegetarian and vegan menus, as well as those adapted to allergies or restrictions. It is important to communicate your requirements in advance when booking.
10. What happens if I cannot continue the trek?
If you experience problems due to altitude sickness or extreme fatigue, the guides provide emergency oxygen and assistance mules. Early pick-up can also be arranged at safe intermediate points, depending on the day’s segment.
DEPARTURE DATES
Confirmed Departures
PRICES
Adult: $365 per Adult
Student: $365 per Adult
Available Equipment:
Trekking poles: These help maintain balance and reduce impact on the knees during long ascents and descents.
Thermal sleeping bags: Designed to withstand the low temperatures of the Salkantay area, ensuring a comfortable and warm rest.
Waterproof jackets: These protect from wind and rain, making them ideal for changing weather conditions at altitude.
Headlamps: Recommended for early departures and for moving safely around camp.
