Summary
The Salkantay Trek 4 Days is one of the most famous alternative routes to reach Machu Picchu, renowned for its spectacular combination of mountain landscapes, turquoise lagoons, and cloud forest vegetation. Designed for those seeking adventure and comfort, this trek takes you from the towering Andean snow peaks to the heart of the ancient Inca citadel, all while sleeping in equipped campsites and enjoying authentic Peruvian cuisine under the stars.
Over four intense and well-organized days, you will cross the Salkantay Pass, admire the Humantay Lagoon, participate in a Pachamanca demonstration, and taste the best organic coffee from the region. The return is by panoramic train with Turitika Travel, allowing you to enjoy the Sacred Valley once more before concluding this unique experience.
Itinerary
Day 1: Cusco – Soraypampa – Humantay Lagoon – Salkantay Pampa Camp
Pick-up from your hotel between 4:30 and 4:45 a.m. and a 3-hour drive to the starting point. After an energy-filled breakfast, you will begin a 3-hour hike through ancient agricultural aqueducts to reach Soraypampa (3,600 m). After a lunch prepared by our chef, you will ascend another 2 hours to view the majestic Humantay Lagoon (4,200 m).
Descending, you will continue for another 2 hours to Salkantay Pampa (3,900 m), where you will set up camp, enjoy tea time, dine under a starry sky, and rest for the next day.
- Distance: 16 km
- Duration: 7–8 hrs
- Maximum Altitude: 4,200 m
- Meals: Breakfast, snacks, lunch, tea, and dinner
- Accommodation: Campsite
- Difficulty: Moderate
Day 2: Salkantay Pampa – Salkantay Pass – Wayracmachay – Collpapampa
You will wake up with a comforting coca tea or coffee before ascending to the Salkantay Pass (4,630 m), the highest point of the route. There, you will enjoy panoramic views and the base lagoon. A 3-hour descent will take you to lunch at Wayracmachay (3,800 m), followed by a journey into the cloud forest where the temperature changes drastically.
You will walk among orchids and hummingbirds to reach Collpapampa (2,770 m), a small village where you will set up your second campsite.
- Distance: 18 km
- Duration: 9 hrs
- Maximum Altitude: 4,630 m
- Meals: Breakfast, snacks, lunch, tea, and dinner
- Accommodation: Campsite
- Difficulty: Moderate
Day 3: Collpapampa – Lucmabamba – Hydroelectric Plant – Aguas Calientes
After breakfast, you will begin a 3-hour walk to Lucmabamba (2,000 m), where you will participate in a Pachamanca cooking demonstration and enjoy a traditional lunch. You will then visit an organic coffee farm, learn about the cultivation process, and prepare your own espresso.
In the afternoon, a 1-hour transfer will take you to the hydroelectric plant; from there, you will walk 3 more hours to Aguas Calientes, where you will spend the night in a hotel and dine at a recommended restaurant.
- Distance: 14 km
- Duration: 6 hrs
- Altitude: 2,000 m
- Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
- Accommodation: Hotel in Aguas Calientes
- Difficulty: Moderate
Day 4: Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu – Cusco
Early in the morning, you will take the first bus to Machu Picchu (5:30 a.m.) to arrive in time for the sunrise over the Inca city. A 2–3-hour guided tour will allow you to explore the main temples and plazas; if you wish, you can climb Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain (subject to ticket availability).
Afterward, you will take the bus back to Aguas Calientes (lunch not included) and then board the panoramic train with Turitika Travel to return to Cusco, where our team will meet you at the station to take you back to your hotel.
- Duration in Machu Picchu: 2–3 hrs
- Altitude: 2,430 m
- Meals: Breakfast at the hotel
- Difficulty: Easy
Inclusions
Inclusions
Includes
- Round-trip transfer from your hotel in Cusco
- Bilingual professional guide
- Entrance to Salkantay Trail and Machu Picchu
- Camping equipment carried by mules
- Specialized chef and all meals (except last lunch)
- 2 nights of camping and 1 night in a hotel in Aguas Calientes
- Panoramic Vistadome or 360° train for the return trip
- Water, snacks, duffel bag (up to 8 kg)
- First aid kit, oxygen, and satellite phones
- Towels, sleeping mat, and pillow
- All taxes and booking fees
Excludes
- Sleeping bag and trekking poles (optional rental)
- Lunch on Day 4 in Aguas Calientes
- Entrance to Huayna Picchu and Machu Picchu Mountain
- Travel insurance and tips
Recommendations
Recommendations for Your Tour
- Bring warm clothing and lightweight layers, as the weather can vary greatly.
- Wear trekking boots with good grip and break-in the shoes beforehand.
- Stay well-hydrated and bring water purification tablets.
- Acclimate to the altitude with light walks in Cusco before the trek.
- Protect your skin with sunscreen and high-protection sunglasses.
- Bring insect repellent for the cloud forest areas.
- Include a daypack with a waterproof cover.
- Respect rest times and follow your guide’s instructions.
FAQs
Frequently Asked Questions
[accordion preguntas=”si”]What is the best time to do the Salkantay Trek?
The best time is during the dry season (May to September), when the skies are typically clear and the trails are safer.
During the rainy season (November to March), although the route is greener and less crowded, the paths can be slippery and visibility of the snow peaks is limited.
If you are looking for clear skies and safer trails, we recommend traveling during the dry season.
Do I need to be in excellent physical condition?
It is not necessary to be an athlete, but you do need to be in good physical condition. This trek involves daily walks of 6 to 9 hours at altitudes of up to 4,630 m.
We recommend:
- Having done previous 4–5 hour walks.
- Acclimatizing in Cusco for at least 2 days before.
- Training with light walking or jogging before the trip.
With basic preparation and a positive attitude, this trek is achievable for most travelers.
What does the camping equipment include?
The tour includes:
- Cold and rain-resistant tents.
- Sleeping pads and pillows.
- Mules and porters to carry the group’s gear.
- Dining tent and kitchen tent with tables and chairs.
You only need to bring your sleeping bag (you can rent one at our office if preferred).
Can I rent a sleeping bag and trekking poles?
Yes, we offer sleeping bag and trekking poles rentals. The sleeping bag is designed to withstand temperatures as low as -10°C, ideal for the cold nights in Salkantay. The trekking poles are helpful for steep descents and ascents.
It is recommended to reserve them before the trek to ensure availability.
What if I suffer from altitude sickness?
Altitude sickness is common in the Andes, but our guides are prepared.
- We always carry portable oxygen.
- First aid kits available at all times.
- We recommend acclimatizing in Cusco for at least 2 days before and drinking coca tea.
In severe cases, we will rearrange logistics for your safe transfer.
What kind of meals are served?
We have a chef specialized in high-altitude cooking. We serve 3 full meals per day plus snacks.
The menu includes:
- Energy breakfasts (quinoa, oatmeal, bread, coca tea).
- Lunches with Andean soups, meats, vegetables, and sides.
- Hot dinners with soups, pasta, and light desserts.
We also offer vegetarian, vegan, or special diets upon request.
How cold is the weather at Salkantay Pass?
The highest point is the Salkantay Pass (4,630 m), where temperatures can drop to -5°C at night and early morning.
In contrast, descending into the cloud forest (days 2 and 3), the weather becomes warmer and more humid.
We recommend bringing:
- Layered clothing (thermal, fleece, waterproof).
- Gloves, hat, and warm socks.
- Light clothing and repellent for the lower areas.
How long is the visit to Machu Picchu?
The guided tour of Machu Picchu lasts between 2 and 3 hours, covering the main temples, plazas, and sections.
If you have a ticket for Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain, the total time is extended by another 2 hours.
Afterward, you have free time for photos before returning by bus to Aguas Calientes.
Can I choose the return train?
Yes. The tour includes the Vistadome or 360° panoramic train. Both offer wide windows to enjoy the valley landscapes.
If you want a higher-class train, you can request an upgrade for an additional cost when making your reservation.
Is it mandatory to climb Huayna Picchu?
No. Climbing Huayna Picchu is optional and requires an additional ticket with limited availability.
If you don’t want to do it, you can:
- Explore Machu Picchu at your own pace.
- Visit less crowded areas of the citadel.
- Rest and take panoramic photos.
Access to the main Machu Picchu citadel is already included in the tour.
Will there be internet access or signal during the 4-day Salkantay trek?
Cell phone signal is very limited on the route, especially in the first 2 days.
In some villages like Collpapampa and Lucmabamba, there may be intermittent coverage.
Consider this experience as an opportunity to disconnect and fully enjoy nature.
What should I bring in my daypack?
We recommend bringing:
- 2 liters of water or a camelback.
- Energy snacks (nuts, bars, chocolates).
- Sunscreen and insect repellent.
- Light clothing + a waterproof jacket.
- Headlamp.
- Camera or phone with a charged battery.
The rest of your luggage will be carried by mules.
Are there showers available during the Salkantay trek?
In the first campsites (Salkantay Pampa and Collpapampa), there are no showers, only basic cold water for personal hygiene.
In Aguas Calientes (Day 3), you will have access to a hotel with hot showers.
It is recommended to bring wet towels and hygiene products for the camping days.
What safety measures are in place during the Salkantay trek?
Safety is our priority. During the trek:
- Guides carry first aid kits, oxygen, and satellite phones.
- The group is accompanied by muleteers and support mules.
- A safety briefing is conducted before starting.
- In case of emergency, an immediate evacuation protocol is activated.
What happens if it rains during the Salkantay hike?
The hike continues even in moderate rain. It is essential to bring a rain poncho or rain jacket.
In case of heavy storms, the guide may adjust the itinerary to prioritize the safety of the group.
Nature is unpredictable, but our team is prepared to adapt.
