Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu 4 Days
CREATING AUTHENTIC TOURS IN PERU
Explore the Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu in Peru
CREATING AUTHENTIC TOURS IN PERUExplore the Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu in Peru
Trip OverviewTrip Overview
Salkantay Trek is the second best option for those travelers who want to go to Machu Picchu, offering a totally full of natural scenes tour, passing through the foothills of the majestic Salkantay snow mountain, colorful villages where Spanish is the second language, and where the Andean people still maintains traditions that date back to ancient times. Unlike the Classic Inca Trail, Salkantay tour will take less visited places and with very little presence of tourists, allowing truly come into contact with the Andean world and interact with people.
If that’s still not enough to get your blood pumping, what better way to end the ultimate trip than with a visit to the Lost City of the Incas, Machu Picchu. You’ll enjoy a 2 hour guided for the most important inca sites such us Sun Temple, Sacred rock, Main plazas and shrines. In the afternoon you will board a train trip to the city of Ollantaytambo, during this trip you can enjoy the Andean landscapes at sunset and the mythical Vilcanota river. In general, this tour encompasses the best landscapes of Peru, which goes from the inter-Andean valley, the mountains with their snowy peaks, and the cloud forests. Come and enjoy the Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu.
INCLUDEDINCLUDED
INCLUDED IN THE SALKANTAY TREK TO MACHU PICCHU 4 DAYS:
- Transport: Pick up from your hotel in the morning
- Experienced Guide: English speaking professional tour guide.
- Andean huts: 2 nights
- Camping equipment: Dining and kitchen tents, tables, chairs.
- 5kg free for the horses to carry the first 2 days
- Entrance Ticket to Machu Picchu (circuit 1 or 2 at 6:00 am)
- Hostel in Aguas Calientes: 1 night
- Trekking Cook
- Meals: 3 Breakfasts, 3 Lunches, 3 dinners (Vegetarian, vegan or special menus are available at no extra cost)
- Medical kit: Our crew bring the First-aid kit including emergency oxygen bottle
- Train tickets: From Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo (expedition service)
- Transport: Transfer from Ollantaytambo Train Station to Cusco
NOT INCLUDED IN THE SALKANTAY TREK 4 DAYS:
- Sleeping Bags (rental $20 usd all the trip)
- Walking Sticks (rental $20 usd all the trip)
- Duffel bags ( rental $15 usd all the trip)
- First day Breakfast
- Last Day: Lunch and Dinner in Aguas Calientes
- Huayna Picchu Mountain ( $ 80 usd per person, check availability before )
- Machu Picchu Mountain ($ 80 usd per person, check availability before)
- Other costs not mentioned in the itinerary
- Travel insurance
- Tips for the cook, muleteer and route guide
Trip HighlightsTrip Highlights
- Enjoy the imposing snowfall of Salkantay that is imposing in your sight surrounded by the nature that surrounds it.
- Marvel at the beautiful colors that Humantay Lagoon possesses.
- Immerse yourself in the history, tradition, customs of the villages where you can reach and with the guidance of the guide.
- Discover the powers that coca leaf, a mystical side by reading coca to see what fate holds and a medicinal side.
- Experience the incomparable flavors of Peruvian cuisine, by tasting exquisite dishes prepared by our expert chefs.
- 4 days of hiking accompanied by fabulous trails, Inca buildings and at the end of the adventure the great Machu Picchu.
ActivitiesActivities
The Road to Salkantay is an old moderate alternative path, along the route you can see beautiful places with ecological diversity of flora and fauna, an excellent trekking route for travelers who love walks and adventures. It is recommended to have a physical activity prior to the trip based on daily walks, practice of some sport, which facilitates your physical performance on the way. It will cover a distance of 56 km crossing paths up and down, the maximum height of the route is 4,600 meters / 15091.86 feet where the cold is intense until reaching the minimum height of 2,400 meters / 7874,016 feet where the climate is tropical and humid . You will enjoy the wonder of the Machu Picchu world where you will take a tour of history always with the guide company it is recommended to stay with the group.
AccommodationsAccommodations
- Confortable Andean Huts, 02 nights.
- Hostel in Aguas Calientes , 01 night.
ItineraryItinerary
- Salkantay Trek - Challacancha trail to Soraypampa, Photo stop viewpoint
- Salkantay Trek - Humantay lake, Photo stop viewpoint
- Lunch, Dinner
PACKING LISTPACKING LIST
YOU SHOULD BRING TO THE SALKANTAY TREK TO MACHU PICCHU 4 DAYS
When packing for your Salkantay Trek, you should keep in mind that it is best to dress in layers due to the weather variation. The variety of clothes that you must pack to dress in layers is key to your walk, from the morning when it is quite cold until mid afternoon when the temperatures rise and reach their peak and then freeze again at night.
Stratification is also useful as you ascend high passages that are exposed to winds or descend into shady valleys. Effective stratification only works if each layer allows moisture to pass and escape into the external environment. In fact, the best layered clothing, such as wool, promotes moisture transfer through its absorbent properties. Cotton and denim absorb moisture and, therefore, should be avoided.
warm jackets
Hydration bladder
wool socks
camera
scarf
first aid kit
hiking shoes
Dry bags
Trekking Poles
sun cream
Snack
sun hat
bathing suite
rain coat
Sandals
insect repellent
Passport
Down Jackets
toilet paper
daypack
Wool cap
head lamp
gloves
sun glasses
cap
extra cash
Trekking pantsFAQFAQ
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT THE SALKANTAY TREK
The Salkantay Trek is an old traditional alternative trail to the Inca Trail, along this route, you can see beautiful places with ecological diversity of flora and fauna, an excellent trekking path for adventure lovers. This hike is known as one of the alternate routes to reach the Inca citadel of Machu Picchu.
The excursion to Salkantay was recently named by the National Geographic Adventure Travel magazine among the top 25 hikes in the world!
Here are some of the frequently asked questions from our customers. Our Salkanay Treks Frequent Questions will help you to pack your personal item as well will answer questions and doubts you might have for Salkantay Treks to Machu Picchu; obviously that NOT all of your questions you find here; so that fill free to contact us to our e-mail address; we’ll be so glad to assist you.
The Salkantay trek route is located within the Cordillera de Vilcabamba, in the district of Santa Teresa, province of La Convención and department of Cusco. Therefore, to get to the beginning of the walk, we will first pass through the inhabitants of Limatambo and Mollepata.
The Salkantay Trail connects the city of Cusco with the Machu Picchu Inca Citadel and travels approximately 89 km / 55 miles through high Andean peaks, cloud forest, and misty jungle. The walk begins in the town of Mollepata, a few kilometers from Cusco.
The Mountain of Salkantay; is located in the Vilcabamba Mountain range, northwest of Cusco. Salkantay is one of the highest and most spectacular mountains in the Andes (6,271 m / 20,574 ft).
National Geographic Adventure Travel magazine named the Salkantay Treks are the 25 best hikes in the world.
ESSENTIAL TRIP INFORMATIONESSENTIAL TRIP INFORMATION
ESSENTIAL TRIP INFORMATION ESSENTIAL TRIP INFORMATION
Want an in-depth insight into this trip? Essential Trip Information provides everything you need to know about this adventure and more.
View Essential Trip InformationBest Season to TravelBest Season to Travel
The best time to visit Peru is during the dry season, between May and November, when the weather is dry and bright, with more frequent rainfall occurring between November and April.
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DecemberPRICE & AVAILABILITYPRICE & AVAILABILITY
PRICE & AVAILABILITY
To book this tour, a minimum of $ 200 USD per person is required, the remaining balance will be paid upon arrival in Peru, at the Cusco office.
Any other additional information, please coordinate with your travel agent.
Choose your preferred departure date to proceed.
What to expect from our
Treks in Peru
Nothing gets you closer to a country than walking through it, and we’ve got trips to suit walkers of all levels and interests.
How fit do I need to be?
All our Walking trips are graded from ‘Easy’ through to ‘Challenging to Tough’. On our online trip itineraries you’ll find a chart showing the daily walk distances, timings and information on the route including the terrain, altitude. Generally, no specific training is needed but you might feel more comfortable if you’ve got out walking a few times in the lead-up to your trip.
What will the group be like?
As with all our trips, every group is different but the ‘average’ group consists of roughly half couples and half solo travellers - all sharing a passion for exploring the world on foot. You’ll always have someone to keep you company along the route, but you don’t always have to walk together. Wherever possible your Andean Great Treks leader will allow everyone to walk at their own pace, regrouping regularly along the route.
Will I need to walk every day?
Mostly of our hikes in the mountains in Peru and Cusco like the classic Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, Ausangate Trek, Lares Trek, Ancascocha Trek, Salkantay Trek , involves an average of walking hours of 7-8 hours per day, this timing includes stops for taking photos, lunch, breaks for recovery the energy, and the most important we adapt to your walking pace. This relaxed style of trip involves to know all the attractions in greater depth.
What about the logistics?
On nearly all our Walking trips, porters or mules will carry all the camping equimpent, so your main luggage will be transported for you. We recommend walk with a light rucksack, you will carry water, snacks, a camera, a small first aid kit and any extra clothing or sun protection. On more remote or challenging treks, additional guides are there to assist the leader tour guide and provide support to the group.
ANDEAN TREKS FAQS
HOW MANY DAYS OF ACCLIMATIZATION DO YOU RECOMMEND BEFORE STARTING A PROGRAM?
The acclimatization period is very important for our travelers to enjoy the experience. We suggest a minimum of 3 or 4 days of the previous stay in Cusco city, the Sacred Valley of the Incas or Machu Picchu. We recommend you check the acclimation programs we have prepared for you on our website.
WHAT ARE THE ALTITUDES IN THE CAMPING SITES ?
The average height of our camps in the trekking circuits is 3,500 masl. In fact, one of the circuits where you sleep at the highest altitude is the Ausangate Trek, where you will have days to set up the tents at a height of 4,300 meters. Remember that Peru has snowy peaks that reach up to 6,700 masl.
HOW CAN ALTITUDE AFFECT ME?
From 3,000 meters above sea level, the symptoms of "altitude sickness" vary according to each person, and may even not occur. However, among the most common are a headache, dizziness, nausea, loss of appetite and insomnia. Therefore, upon arriving in the city of Cusco, located at 3,400 meters above sea level, we recommend our travelers to take a good rest, drink plenty of water, eat light meals and take slower walking. Also, it is necessary to avoid alcoholic beverages and cigarettes. The symptoms can be alleviated with high mountain medicines such as DIAMOX or similar products, but we suggest you consult with your doctor before the trip.
DO I HAVE TO CARRY MY OWN LUGGAGE?
While on the trail, hikers will need to carry a daypack (camera equipment, water bottle, extra layers, rain gear, and other accessories you might need on the trail.) Horses and llamas will carry your duffle bag to the next camping site.
WHAT ARE THE SECURITY MEASURES IN THE TRAIL?
The company makes the greatest efforts to provide a safe and unforgettable experience, for this reason, the trekking guides are constantly communicated with the central office through satellite phones, ensuring the welfare of each passenger. Our guides are trained in rescue techniques and first aid in emergency outdoor, these courses are developed annually and have the standards of the wilderness first respond. At all times we have oxygen and first aid equipment. In case of any eventuality a medical director will answer our questions 24 hours a day. In addition to the animals who carry the luggage we have horses to help walkers tired or eager to ride. We recommend getting a travel insurance.
ANDEAN GREAT TREKS TOURS DIFFERENCE
UNRIVALLED KNOWLEDGE & EXPERIENCE
Every Andean Great Treks holiday has been thoughtfully planned and crafted by our specialists. They draw on their own extensive travel experience and the guidance and expertise of our local partners to create superb holidays. Our specialists are committed to making every aspect smooth and enjoyable; they genuinely want to ensure that the holidays they create leave you with wonderful lasting memories.
AMAZING TOURS & AUTHENTIC EXPERIENCES
Every Andean Great Treks traveller is accompanied by an experienced tour guide, you will be immersed in Historic cities, ancient ruins and unfamiliar landscapes are all brought to life by our carefully selected local guides. They want to share their expertise and help you make your own discoveries too; their sole mission is to ensure you enjoy every moment.
FLEXIBILITY & CHOICE
Giving you the freedom to make your holiday even more memorable. We know how much our customers look forward to their holiday and we pride ourselves on the choice and flexibility that we offer to enhance every aspect of your experience. Whether it’s getting to the airport, upgrading your room or booking an additional excursion, we can help.
GUIDED BY THE LOCAL GUIDES, TRUE EXPERTS!
Our guides are the stars of the show; it is their unrivalled knowledge, passion and expertise that will transform your tour experience from good to truly extraordinary!
Because the have grown up in the area and know it like the back of their hand, so they can help you experience whichever aspects most interest you. They’re passionate about sharing their corner of the world with you, and as you explore together, they’ll open your eyes to the intricate details, provide background to enhance your understanding of what you’re seeing, and share stories that will bring everything to life.
ALL OF OUR NATIONAL TOUR GUIDES...
- Have at least five years guiding experience
- Are fluent in English
- Are born and raised in Cusco, Lima, Manu Jungle, Puno
- Go through rigorous and ongoing training programmes
- Are at your service 24 hours a day
OUR TRAVELS SHAPE YOURS
“Your inspiration for a trip can be a single word or a highly evolved outline, but it's the conversations we have that help us understand the experience you're looking for. Meanwhile, I'm looking back on the time I spent at the destination.
‘The great thing about working with a specialist at Andean Great Treks is how they take your complete jumble of ideas and turn them into something absolutely spectacular.’
As you begin to share your ideas with your specialist, it will connect them immediately back to a time in their own travels. Conjuring a picture of the rest time they made that same discovery, reminding them how it felt.
Your specialist understands that, when the journey is right, it has the power to excite your emotions in the most profound ways after all, that was the effect on them.
They carry a treasure box of moments, captured over many journeys, into every suggestion they’ll share with you, as they ask you how you want to feel on your trip.
MEANINGFUL EXPERIENCES, REAL CONNECTIONS
EXPERIENCES THAT CALL TO YOU
It’s what you do in a destination that helps bring it to life. It’s why we strive to choose experiences that help you connect to a place, absorbing a little of its complex character. Wherever your passions lie, we’ll recommend experiences that speak to you, and we’ll recommend the guide or local expert who’s most qualified to help you explore. Packing your holiday full of special experiences means some early starts and long days, but you can be sure that you’ll return home with many incredible memories! Read our Tours and check the Physical Ratings to see if the pace and activity levels are right for you.
STAYS WITH DIFFERENCE
We know that where you stay is a cherished part of your travels. So, we go to great lengths to find places to stay that exceed expectations, or go above and beyond the ordinary, whether in their character, hospitality, or location. Over the years, we’ve discovered the very best properties, trying and testing them, so we can choose the right one for you. We’ve nourished long-standing relationships with these establishments and the people who founded them, and we’ve stayed there many times often, we’ll even know which rooms have the best views (and reserve them for you).
TRAVELLING THE RIGHT WAY
Our style of travel — authentic, thoughtful, and focused on building meaningful connections to the people and places you visit — is inherently respectful and considerate of the destinations we love. We design each aspect of your trip exactly as you want it, which includes its sustainability. That might mean choosing a train journey instead of a flight, staying at eco-friendly wildlife lodges, or opting for experiences that give back to the communities you’re visiting. The choice is yours.
Responsible travel has always been at the heart of what we do. First and foremost, because it gives you the best experience, but, also because it helps to preserve the communities and landscapes you visit. This isn’t new for us we collaborated with local communities and outside experts so we can grow to be better ambassadors.
The most authentic and interesting experiences often directly benefit the local people. We prefer to buy local products that are produced in the organic farms of the Sacred Valley, we also have alliances with local artisan organizations who provide us with souvenir items for our clients, your money directly benefits the local economy.
Our style of travel — authentic, thoughtful, and focused on building meaningful connections to the people and places you visit — is inherently respectful and considerate of the destinations we love. We design each aspect of your trip exactly as you want it, which includes its sustainability. That might mean choosing a train journey instead of a flight, staying at eco-friendly wildlife lodges, or opting for experiences that give back to the communities you’re visiting. The choice is yours.
Responsible travel has always been at the heart of what we do. First and foremost, because it gives you the best experience, but, also because it helps to preserve the communities and landscapes you visit. This isn’t new for us we collaborated with local communities and outside experts so we can grow to be better ambassadors.
The most authentic and interesting experiences often directly benefit the local people. We prefer to buy local products that are produced in the organic farms of the Sacred Valley, we also have alliances with local artisan organizations who provide us with souvenir items for our clients, your money directly benefits the local economy.
WE EXPLORE WITHOUT AFFECTING THE ECOSYSTEM
We want travel to change us, and not the World
‘There’s a saying: we don’t inherit the Earth from our ancestors, we borrow it from our children. When we show you our country, this philosophy guides everything we do. It’s our responsibility to preserve the environment and wildlife, and support communities. That means using slower modes of transport, like cycling, employing local people, and working with communities who’ll benefit directly from your visit. This also gives you the best, most authentic impression of the places we want to share with you.
We prefer to buy local products in ecological bags, to avoid the use of plastic bags, likewise we teach the use of soaps and ecological products in each tour that we organize. We also work on reforestation projects with local communities who take care of landscape resources such as communal reserves, national parks.
We want travel to change us, and not the World
‘There’s a saying: we don’t inherit the Earth from our ancestors, we borrow it from our children. When we show you our country, this philosophy guides everything we do. It’s our responsibility to preserve the environment and wildlife, and support communities. That means using slower modes of transport, like cycling, employing local people, and working with communities who’ll benefit directly from your visit. This also gives you the best, most authentic impression of the places we want to share with you.
We prefer to buy local products in ecological bags, to avoid the use of plastic bags, likewise we teach the use of soaps and ecological products in each tour that we organize. We also work on reforestation projects with local communities who take care of landscape resources such as communal reserves, national parks.
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