Salkantay Trek 4 Days

Salkantay 4 day Trek  Itinerary

Day 1: Cusco – Mollepata – Soraypampa Humantay Lake.

Our trip will begin with an early morning pick up from your hotel or a specific point in Cusco around 4:30 AM. We will embark on a two-hour drive to the picturesque village of Mollepata.

Upon arrival in Mollepata, our guide will give you your respective entrance tickets and you will be able to register your entrance to the Salkantay Park. We will then head to the restaurant for a comforting breakfast and continue with a one hour drive to Challacancha (the gateway to the majestic Salkantay Trail). Here, our team of muleteers and horses will be ready to carry your equipment, food and up to 7 kilos of your personal belongings. The adventure begins with a 3-hour hike to our first campsite at Soraypampa (3,900 meters/12,800 feet).

Arriving at our camp in Soraypampa around 13:30 PM, you will have plenty of time to relax, enjoy the breathtaking mountain views and acclimatize to the altitude. Prepare to enjoy a buffet lunch, with a fusion of local flavors and nutritious ingredients.

After lunch, we will hike to the impressive Humantay Lagoon, a 5 kilometer (3.1 mile) round trip that will take approximately 3 hours. After returning to camp around 17:00, we will have tea (popcorn, cookies, tequeños with avocado, coffee, chocolate and filterantes) before enjoying a buffet dinner at 18:30. Then it will be time to retire to our cabins for a well-deserved rest.

• Transportation: 3 hours by private minibus from Cusco to Challacancha.
• Hiking time: Approximately 5 to 6 hours.
• Walking distance: 10 kilometers (6.21 miles).
• Maximum Elevation: 4,200 meters (13,780 feet)
• Camp Elevation: 3,900 meters (12,795 feet)
• Starting Elevation: 3,800 meters (12,467 feet)
• Difficulty: Moderate to difficult
• Meals: Breakfast, lunch, afternoon snack and dinner.

Day 2: Soraypampa – Salkantay Pass – Huayracmachay – Chaullay

We will wake you up at dawn with a revitalizing cup of coca tea to start the day. The second day of the trek is considered the most difficult, as it comprises a 22-kilometer hike and leads to the highest point of the trek at an altitude of 4,650 meters above sea level. Before embarking on our journey to the highest point of the trail, you will enjoy a nutritious breakfast. The ascent begins at approximately 7:00 a.m. and takes about four hours to reach the Apacheta pass at 4,650 meters. During the ascent through the rocky valley, you will be able to contemplate the impressive views of the Salkantay peak (6,217 meters – 20,341 feet) and observe chinchillas, white rivers, small lakes and moraines.

Once we reach the summit, we will be rewarded with breathtaking views of the mountains and the imposing snow-capped peaks of Salkantay. After taking a breather and soaking in the view, you will begin the descent to the lunch spot at Huayracmachay (3,850 meters / 12,631 feet), which is 7 kilometers or 4.35 miles away. This section of the trail is rocky and gravelly, and you will have wonderful views of the valley. After a revitalizing lunch, you will enter the edge of the Amazon rainforest, also known as the “cloud forest,” which is 8 kilometers or 4.97 miles away and takes about three hours.

You will have the opportunity to savor the magical rainforest and see how quickly and dramatically the landscape changes from the Andes to the Amazon. You will see colorful landscapes, exotic wildlife and native plants, and the climate will be much warmer. After your longest day of hiking, you will be delighted to arrive at our camp at Chaullay (2,900 meters / 9,514 feet). Before retiring to your Andean hut for a restful night’s sleep in the small village, you will enjoy a hearty meal. You are sure to have a restful night’s sleep.

• Walking time: About 10 hours.
• Walking Distance: 22 kilometers or 13.67 miles
• Highest point: 4,650 meters or 15,256 feet
• Altitude of camp: 2,900 meters or 9,514 feet
• Starting elevation: 3,900 meters or 12,795 feet
• Difficulty level: Difficult
• Meals: Breakfast, lunch, afternoon snack and dinner.
• Lodging: Andean cabins (maximum two people per room)

Day 3: Chaullay – Santa Teresa – Hidroelectrica – Aguas Calientes.

Alternative version: On the third day of our trek, we will wake up at 6:00 am with a refreshing cup of coca tea, while our skilled cooks prepare an appetizing breakfast. We will then embark on a five-hour hike through the picturesque Santa Teresa Valley, carved by the majestic Salkantay River. As we hike the trail, we will encounter a plethora of natural wonders, such as waterfalls, meandering rivers and vibrant orchids. We will also stop at several local villages to savor fresh and delicious fruits and vegetables, such as bananas, avocados, coffee, papayas and passion fruit. If we are lucky, we may spot the famous “Gallito de las Rocas” bird species. Our destination for the day is the Playa Sahuayaco campground, where we will enjoy a delicious lunch before heading to Hidroelectrica.

At Playa Sahuayaco, we will take a 60-minute ride to the train tracks (Hidroelectrica) that lead to the charming town of Aguas Calientes. At this point you will have two options: 1) If you are exhausted, you can take the train to Aguas Calientes for an additional $45.00. 2) If you feel like more adventure, you can walk along the train tracks from Hidroelectrica to Aguas Calientes, which will take about three hours. The trail goes through the tropical paradise of the cloud forest and offers breathtaking views. Once we arrive in Aguas Calientes, we will check into our lodge, where you will have a chance to rest before having dinner at the restaurant at 7:00 pm. The next day, you will rise early to explore the iconic Machu Picchu.

• Walking Time: 9 hours
• Walking Distance: 29 km / 18.0198 mi
• Starting Elevation: 2,900 m / 9,514 ft
• Aguas Calientes Elevation: – 1900 m / 5902 ft
• Difficulty: challenging
• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
• Accommodation: Hostel. (2 to 3 persons max per room)

Day 4: Machu Picchu – Cusco

The long awaited day has finally arrived… MACHU PICCHU. You will wake up early, around 4:00 am, to prepare for the hike to the main entrance of Machu Picchu. Each person will receive a packed breakfast, and we will begin the 30 minute walk to the Puente Ruinas checkpoint, where you will be asked to present your passport, Machu Picchu ticket, and student ID if applicable. After passing the first checkpoint, we will climb the stairs for approximately one hour until we arrive at the main gate of Machu Picchu at 6:00 am.

Once inside Machu Picchu, your guide will take you to the optimal spot to witness the sunrise and take breathtaking photos. Then, your local guide will lead you on a two-hour tour of the main areas of the citadel. During the guided tour, you will learn about the history and culture of the Inca Empire. At the end of the guided tour, you will have free time to rest and explore on your own.

If you book your excursion to Huayna Picchu (which requires prior reservation, costs $20 per person and sells out quickly), your guide will show you the starting point of this hike. The hike will take no more than two hours round trip. If you have purchased the additional ticket for MACHU PICCHU MOUNTAIN, you will need approximately 3.5 hours to complete the hike. After exploring Machu Picchu and its surroundings, it is time to make your way back to Cusco.

RETURNING TO CUSCO BY TRAIN

The train ride back to Cusco is a picturesque and enjoyable way to end your journey and also gives you more time to explore Machu Picchu. If you plan to hike Huaynapicchu or Machu Picchu Mountain, we strongly recommend taking the train, as these hikes require at least 3 hours to complete. To catch the train back to Cusco, you will need to be at the Aguas Calientes Train station by 4:22 pm. There are two options for the train ride: the first train arrives in Cusco at 8:30 pm and the second train arrives at 10:30 pm after a switch to a car in Ollantaytambo for the final 2-hour journey.

 RETURNING TO CUSCO BY CAR

For travelers on a budget, returning to Cusco by car is a viable alternative. However, keep in mind that this option provides less time to explore Machu Picchu, and if you plan to hike Huaynapicchu or Machu Picchu Mountain, time constraints may be an issue. If you opt for this method, you must depart Machu Picchu by midday and trek for three hours back to Hidroelectrica, where you will meet the car at 3:00 pm.

If you plan to hike Huaynapicchu or Machu Picchu Mountain and are considering this option, we suggest you stay an additional night in Aguas Calientes and return to Cusco by car on the 5th day to ensure you have ample time to enjoy the experience

Inclusions

Included

• Pre-Trek Briefing: Comprehensive Salkantay Trek briefing at 6:00 PM, one day before departure, at the “Sap Adventures Office“.
• Duffle Bag Service: A provided duffle bag to pack up to 7 kilos of your belongings, carried by horses throughout the trek.
• Bilingual Tour Guides: Experienced English/Spanish-speaking professional tour guides to enhance your journey.
• Gourmet Outdoor Cuisine: Exceptional meals prepared by a professional chef, including cooking equipment for a high-quality dining experience.
• Horse Support: Reliable horses for transporting up to 7 Kilos of personal luggage, ensuring a comfortable trekking experience.
• Hotel Pick-Up Service: Convenient pick-up from your hotel in Cusco, ensuring a smooth start to your adventure.
• Private Trailhead Transport: Private, comfortable transportation to the head of the Salkantay trail.
• All-Inclusive Meals: Includes 4 breakfasts, 3 lunches, and 3 dinners, crafted to fuel your journey.
• Camping Accommodations: 2 nights of immersive camping with quality equipment provided.
• Aguas Calientes Hotel Stay: Relaxing 1-night hotel accommodation in Aguas Calientes, offering comfort after your trek.
• Luxury Mountain Sky Huts: For the first and second night, stay in exclusive Mountain Sky Huts with thick mattresses, glass doors, night lighting, and panoramic views.
• Comfortable Sleeping Pads: Personal pad provided (double foam, 2.5 inches thick) for added sleeping comfort.
• Pillows Provided: Comfortable pillows available at the first and second campsites.
• Efficient Transport: Smooth transportation from La Playa to Hidroelectrica, enhancing your trek experience.
• Entrance fee to Humantay Lake and Salkantay 
• Machu Picchu Entry: Included entrance ticket to the iconic Machu Picchu.
• Guided Machu Picchu Tour: In-depth guided visit to Machu Picchu, uncovering its mysteries and history.
• Flexible Return Options: Choose your return journey from Aguas Calientes to Cusco BY TRAIN or BY CAR.
• Dietary Accommodations: Vegetarian/Vegan meal options available upon request at no extra cost.
• Safety First: Equipped with first-aid equipment and an oxygen bottle for emergencies, ensuring a safe trek.

Not Included

• Sleeping Bags – If you do not have one, you can rent from us for $10 USD for the entire trek.
• Ticket for Cocalmayo Hot Spring 10 soles
• Train ticket from Hidroelectrica to Aguas Calientes
• Optional bus from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu at an additional cost of US$12 each way
• Optional entry fee to Huayna Picchu (US$20) or Machu Picchu Mountain (US$20)
• Travel Insurance is not included and is highly recommended
• Tips for our staff: tipping is customary on any excursion in Peru. While we do pay salaries to our entire team, any additional tip is always appreciated, especially considering the hard work they do.
• Additional costs or delays beyond our control: including but not limited to landslides, bad weather conditions, itinerary modifications due to security issues.

Packing List for Salkantay Trek 4 Days

• We suggest bringing only essential luggage for the four-day tour. It is recommended to leave large backpacks with unnecessary equipment in Cusco, either at your hotel or our main office. On the briefing day, we will provide you with a duffle bag that can accommodate 7 kilos of your personal belongings to be carried by a horse throughout the trek. You will only carry a small backpack containing things you need for the day hike, and the duffle bag will be accessible at each camping site.
• Here are the items that you need to pack in your duffle bag:
• 2-3 moisture-wicking t-shirts
• 2-3 hiking pants
• 4 sets of undergarments
• 4 sets of hiking socks
• 1 fleece
• 1 warm down jacket
• 1 rain jacket and pants
• 1 sun hat
• 1 wool hat
• Headlamp
• Waterproof gloves
• Comfortable shoes for camping
• Hiking boots
• Sandals/Flip flops
• Swimwear
• Waterproof jacket/rain poncho
• Quick-dry towel
• Small bottle of soap
• Battery charger
• Large plastic bags
• Sleeping bag rated at least minus 5 celsius. You can rent one from us for $10 USD for the whole trek.

Here are the essential toiletries:

• Sunscreen
• Face moisturizer
• Insect repellent
• Hand sanitizer
• Wet wipes
• Toothbrush and toothpaste
• Toilet paper
• Personal medication
• First aid kit: band-aids, moleskin, etc.

Inside your daypack, you can pack the following items:

• Water bottle
• Trekking poles (optional)
• Sun hat
• Rain gear
• Fleece
• Camera
• Snacks such as chocolate, cereal bars, candies, nuts, energy bars, etc.
• Hand sanitizer
• Toilet paper and small plastic bag for waste
• Extra money for souvenirs, drinks, and tips
• Earplugs

Make sure to bring these essentials:

• Original passport
• Valid student card (if applicable)
• Immigration card
• Good daypack
• Water storage (enough for at least 2-3 liters)
• Comfortable hiking boots with good soles.

Salkantay Trek 4 Days Cost

The Price will depend on how you want to back to Cusco after Machu Picchu. 

RETURNING TO CUSCO BY TRAIN

The train ride back to Cusco is a picturesque and enjoyable way to end your journey and also gives you more time to explore Machu Picchu. If you plan to hike Huaynapicchu or Machu Picchu Mountain, we strongly recommend taking the train, as these hikes require at least 3 hours to complete. To catch the train back to Cusco, you will need to be at the Aguas Calientes Train station by 4:22 pm. There are two options for the train ride: the first train arrives in Cusco at 8:30 pm and the second train arrives at 10:30 pm after a switch to a car in Ollantaytambo for the final 2-hour journey.

• Student: 379 USA Dollars
• Adult: 399 USA Dollars 

 RETURNING TO CUSCO BY CAR

For travelers on a budget, returning to Cusco by car is a viable alternative. However, keep in mind that this option provides less time to explore Machu Picchu, and if you plan to hike Huaynapicchu or Machu Picchu Mountain, time constraints may be an issue. If you opt for this method, you must depart Machu Picchu by midday and trek for three hours back to Hidroelectrica, where you will meet the car at 3:00 pm.

If you plan to hike Huaynapicchu or Machu Picchu Mountain and are considering this option, we suggest you stay an additional night in Aguas Calientes and return to Cusco by car on the 5th day to ensure you have ample time to enjoy the experience.

• Adult: 329 USA Dollars
• Student: 309 USA Dollars

DISCOUNTS

• For individuals aged 18 to 25 years old, a discount of $20 USD is available upon presentation of a valid student card containing the following information: name of university, student name, photo of student, expiration date, etc. A copy of the card must be provided at the time of booking for government approval of the discount.
• For individuals under 18 years old, a discount of $20 USD is available. A copy of your passport must be sent at the time of booking.
• For individuals under 11 years old, a discount of $30 USD is available. A copy of your passport must be sent at the time of booking.
• For groups of 5 or more, a discount of $20 USD is available. To qualify for the discount, all members of the group must book the trek together at the same time.

EXTRAS 

• Trekking poles: $10 USD per pair per trek (professional poles that can be extended)
• Extra night in Aguas Calientes – Starting from:$20 USD (depending on availability)
• Vistadome Train upgrade: $35 USD per person (For the return to Cusco (Poroy) at 14:55 or 15:20)
• Huaynapicchu or Machu Picchu Mountain tickets: $20 USD per person (Please request when you make your Trek reservation)

Solo travelers will need to pay a single supplement fee of $40 USD for a 3-star accommodation.

Huayna Picchu is an additional trek that can be taken within the Machu Picchu Citadel, and it does not include a guide. The climb is typically done independently after your tour of Machu Picchu Citadel. However, if you would like the additional hike to be guided, please make a request in advance. Please note that there will be an extra cost for this guided tour.

How To Book Salkantay 4-day Trek ?

To RESERVE THE 4-DAY SALKANTAY TREK TO MACHU PICCHU, please follow these straightforward instructions:

1. Select a reputable, officially sanctioned tour operator.
2. Click the “Book Online” button, choose your preferred date, and complete the booking form. For ease of coordination, have one person complete the form for the entire group and keep your passport ready for accurate information.
3. Submit your payment online using a debit or credit card. Please note that there is a 2.9% fee for online transactions, which is the responsibility of the customer.
4. To secure your spot on the 4-DAY SALKANTAY TREK TO MACHU PICCHU, a $180 deposit per person is required. This deposit is essential for obtaining the necessary permits and tickets from the Peruvian government.
5. Optionally, you have the choice to pay the full tour amount upfront to eliminate any future payment concerns.
6. If you opt for the deposit-only payment, the remaining balance must be settled 24 hours before the tour commences. Payment can be made in cash (in soles or dollars) at our Cusco office or by card (with a 3.9% fee). Alternatively, you can make the payment online with any card (subject to a 2.9% fee).

By adhering to these simple instructions, you can effortlessly reserve your spot on the 4-DAY SALKANTAY TREK TO MACHU PICCHU and focus on preparing for your upcoming adventure.

Payment: Payment for the 4-DAY SALKANTAY TREK TO MACHU PICCHU can be made online using any debit or credit card. A 2.9% fee applies to online payments, which customers are responsible for. To secure your reservation for the 4-DAY SALKANTAY TREK TO MACHU PICCHU, a $180 deposit per person is required to obtain permits and tickets from the Peruvian government. You can choose to pay the full tour cost upfront to eliminate future payment concerns. If you decide to pay only the deposit, the remaining balance is due 24 hours before the tour begins. You can pay this balance in cash (in soles or dollars) at our office in Cusco, or by card with a 3.9% fee. Alternatively, you can make the payment online using any card with a 2.9% fee.

Passport Requirements: Please ensure your passport remains valid for at least 6 months beyond your intended entry date into Peru. If your passport is set to expire within this period, we recommend renewing it before your trip. In case your passport expiration falls within the 6-month window but you wish to secure your reservation for the 4-DAY SALKANTAY TREK TO MACHU PICCHU and Machu Picchu tickets, you can book the tour and update your passport details with us after renewal. Neglecting to do so may result in the forfeiture of permits and tickets.

Travel Insurance: We strongly advise obtaining travel insurance to safeguard your investment. Secure insurance prior to your departure and consider partnering with a reputable agency to acquire affordable coverage.

Deposit: The $180 deposit per person for the 4-DAY SALKANTAY TREK TO MACHU PICCHU tour is non-refundable and non-transferable.

Remaining Balance: In the event that you choose to pay only the deposit, the outstanding balance must be settled 24 hours before the tour’s commencement. You can make this payment in cash (in soles or dollars) at our office in Cusco, or by card with a 3.9% fee. Additionally, online payment of the balance is possible using any card with a 2.9% fee.

Student Discount: If your student card meets the requirements set by the Peruvian government, you can reserve the tour with a deposit and pay the remaining balance upon your arrival in Cusco. The student discount will be applied at that time.

Useful Info

1. In the event that you’ve made a reservation using your previous passport and have since renewed it to obtain a new one, it’s highly likely that your passport number has changed. Kindly notify us so we can update this information. This adjustment should be completed prior to your journey to Peru (at least 10 days before your trip). Once you have your new passport, please promptly inform Sap Adventures of this change. Failure to do so will result in an additional fee of USD 12.00, and making this update at the last minute could pose significant inconveniences.
2. If you fail to carry your passport with you, you will not be granted access to Machu Picchu. Furthermore, if you bring your new passport without informing us and updating this information, you will be denied entry to Machu Picchu.
3. Travelers who have booked their trip using the discounted rate for Student Holders must present their original and currently valid student card (not a photocopy and not expired). This document must be presented at the Machu Picchu Control Gate. Unfortunately, if you do not have your card with you, your permits will be deemed invalid, and entry to Machu Picchu will be denied.
4. It is of utmost importance that our passengers inform us before their trip of any medical restrictions, dietary restrictions, allergies, special dietary requirements, current medications, health concerns, or any other factors we should be aware of to ensure your trip is enjoyable and free of any concerns.
5. If you have medical restrictions that apply to some or all of the activities outlined in your booking, please consult with your physician to assess the risks associated with participating in these activities.

Frequently Asked Questions about Salkantay Trek 4 Days

Can you do the Salkantay trek in 4 days?

Yes, it is possible to complete the Salkantay Trek in 4 days, but it is important to keep in mind that it is a demanding and physically challenging trek. The traditional Salkantay Trek usually lasts 5 days, but it is also possible to complete this trek in 4 days covering the most important points along the trail.

What is the difference between Salkantay 4 and 5 day?

Salkantay 4-Day Trek: The shorter version usually covers the essential highlights of the Salkantay Trek, including the trek to Salkantay Pass, descending to the Santa Teresa Valley, and reaching Aguas Calientes before visiting Machu Picchu.
Salkantay 5-Day Trek: The longer trek offers a more comprehensive experience. It may include additional stops, such as hot springs in Santa Teresa or a visit to Llactapata, an Inca ruin with a view of Machu Picchu. This extra day allows for more flexibility in the itinerary.