From Cusco: 4-Day Salkantay Trek with Machu Picchu Classic
Embark on the iconic Salkantay Trek, a four-day journey through diverse landscapes, culminating in the awe-inspiring Machu Picchu.
From Cusco: 4-Day Salkantay Trek with Machu Picchu Classic
Journey through the heart of the Andes on the 4-Day Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu, a trek that promises an unparalleled blend of natural splendor and ancient wonder. Traversing this path, you’ll encounter a variety of landscapes, from stark mountain peaks to lush jungles, each offering its own unique beauty and challenge. Witness the majestic Salkantay and Veronica mountains, symbols of strength and serenity in the Peruvian landscape. The trek to the stunning Humantay Lake is not just a hike; it’s an exploration of the breathtaking beauty that defines the Andes. The journey includes nights under the stars at pristine campsites like Salkantaypampa, where the sky becomes a canvas of constellations, adding a touch of magic to the adventure.
Navigating this trail is as much about cultural discovery as it is about personal exploration. The transition from the high Andean peaks to the cloud forest reveals a diverse ecosystem, home to vibrant flora and fauna. In small villages like Lucmabamba, the trek becomes an intimate experience with local life, where the aroma of fresh coffee and the warmth of Andean hospitality enrich the journey. The expedition culminates with a scenic train ride to Aguas Calientes, setting the stage for the grand finale at Machu Picchu. Here, the ancient Inca citadel awaits, its secrets and splendor forming the ultimate reward for this remarkable trek. This journey transcends a simple trek; it’s an odyssey that weaves together the marvels of nature with the mystique of ancient history.
| Departure & Return Location | Your Hotel in Lima |
| Departure Time | 4:30 AM |
| Estimated Return Time | 7:00 PM – 8:00 PM |
| Guide Languages Available | Guides fluent in English and Spanish |
| Key Attractions | Humantay Lake, Salkantay Pass, Cloud Forests, Coffee Plantations, Aguas Calientes, Machu Picchu |
Cusco to Salkantaypampa via Mollepata and Humantay Lake – The Adventure Begins
Your Salkantay Trek adventure kicks off with an early morning pickup from your hotel at 4:30 am. Embark on a scenic 3-hour drive towards Anta-Mollepata, where the breathtaking views of the snowcapped Salkantay and Veronica mountains await. This journey isn’t just a travel segment; it’s a panoramic spectacle showcasing the diverse landscapes of both the upper and lower valleys.
Arriving in Mollepata, we pause for a quick breakfast, a perfect time to gear up and mentally prepare for the hike ahead. From here, our drive continues to Soraypampa, the starting line of our trek. At Soraypampa, we gear up and set out on a 3-hour round trip hike to the stunning Humantay Lake. This hike isn’t just a physical journey but a visual feast, with the Humantay glacier’s icy beauty as the centerpiece. Enjoy an hour at the lake, immersing in its tranquility and natural splendor.
The hike back to Soraypampa concludes with a fulfilling lunch, prepping us for the next leg of our trek to Salkantaypampa. As night falls, our campsite at Salkantaypampa offers a serene setting, perfect for stargazing and soaking in the high-altitude atmosphere.
Accommodation: Camping
Meals: Lunch and Dinner
Hiking: Approx. 6 hours, 10 km
Soraypampa to Ccollpampa via Salkantay Pass and Huayramachay
Day two begins with a coca tea wake-up call at 5:00 am, an Andean tradition to start the day. After breakfast, we embark on a 3-hour ascent to the highest point of the Salkantay trail. This hike isn’t merely a climb; it’s an encounter with the grandeur of the Andes. The Salkantay peak looms large, and if we’re lucky, we might spot chinchillas along the way. Reaching the summit, the vistas of Salkantay, Humantay, and Pumasillo peaks are nothing short of majestic.
The descent from the Salkantay Pass is a 3-hour journey to Huayracmachay, our lunch spot. The afternoon’s trek takes us through the “cloud forest,” a part of the upper rainforest where the air is fresh, and the landscape is dotted with colorful orchids and native flora. This 3-hour hike covering 9 km to Challway Village immerses you in a world where nature’s beauty is at its rawest.
Accommodation: Camping
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Hiking: Approx. 6 hours, 12 km
Collpapampa to Aguas Calientes via Lucmabamba – Journey Through the Jungle
The third day of your trek begins with an invigorating wake-up call at 5:30 am, accompanied by a warming serving of coca tea. After breakfast, we set off on our hike towards La Playa, a journey that takes us through the heart of the lush jungle along the Salkantay River. This trail is not just a path but a corridor through an abundant rainforest, teeming with local fruits and vegetables. Here, you can taste the freshness of passion fruit, banana, coffee, avocado, mango, orange, and papaya, handpicked from family-owned orchards along the route.
Be on the lookout for the “Cock of the Rocks,” Peru’s vibrant national bird. The day’s hike, covering a distance of 16 km, culminates in approximately 7 hours, leading us to Lucmabamba. This quaint town, nestled amongst coffee trees, offers a chance to indulge in fresh coffee and experience the simplicity of rural life.
Post-lunch in Lucmabamba, we hop onto a local van for a short ride to Hydroelectric and then board a train to Aguas Calientes. This train journey is an experience in itself, winding through the Andean landscape to the town located at the foot of Machu Picchu. Once in Aguas Calientes, check into your hotel, enjoy a delightful dinner, and rest well for the upcoming climax of our trek.
Accommodation: Hotel in Aguas Calientes
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Hiking: Approx. 7 hours, 16 km
Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu and Return to Cusco – The Grand Finale
Day four dawns with excitement and anticipation. We rise early for the bus ride to Machu Picchu, embarking on the final leg of our journey. As we enter the ancient Inca city, a sense of wonder and history envelops us. The hike to the guardhouse provides the classic, breathtaking viewpoint for those iconic Machu Picchu postcard pictures.
During our comprehensive 2-hour guided tour of Circuit 2, we delve into the history and culture of Machu Picchu, uncovering the mysteries of this ancient wonder. For those who’ve booked in advance, the option to hike Huayna Picchu post-tour is an exciting addition (requires a separate ticket).
After exploring Machu Picchu, we return to Aguas Calientes and board a train back to Ollantaytambo. From there, a bus will take you back to Cusco, completing your incredible Salkantay Trek. We aim to have you back at your Cusco hotel by approximately 7:30 pm, with a heart full of memories and a spirit enriched by this unforgettable journey.
Accommodation: N/A
Meals: Breakfast
Return to Cusco: Train to Ollantaytambo, then bus to Cusco
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Standard Inclusions
All package options include the following:
Exclusions:
Not included in our standard tour packages. Consider additional costs. Deluxe packages may cover some exclusions, as specified in the Additional Inclusions section.
Additional Inclusions
Deluxe Packages Only
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Deluxe Packages Include:
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Packing List
Prepare for an unforgettable journey with our essential packing guide. Here’s what you need to bring:
Provided Duffle Bag and Packing Tips
Pack Wisely with Our Essential Packing Tips
We’ll provide a returnable duffle bag during the pre-trek briefing, held 1-2 nights before your tour. Familiarize yourself with the bag, pack efficiently, and get essential trek details, safety guidelines, and updates. It’s a great chance to ask questions, meet fellow trekkers, and prepare for your adventure.
Our Packing Tips:
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