Cusco , Peru

4-Day Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu

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(36 reviews)

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About this experience

Forget the Inca Trail and hike to Machu Picchu along the higher and more beautiful Salkantay Trail! Embark on a challenging 4-day trek along the alternative Salkantay route, crossing over a 4,650 meters high pass where you can marvel at the Salkantay and Humantay peaks standing over 6,000 meters high. Hike along this unspoiled trail, passing through the villages of Soraypampa and Santa Teresa, to discover indigenous mountain communities. See the 'Lost City of the Incas' in the early morning light after having spent time in the town of Aguas Calientes.

Highlights:
-Hike among 6,000m Andean peaks
-Cross snowy high passes with incredible views
-Reach the comfort of Aguas Calientes town
-See the Machu Picchu site as it opens with a guide

Available options

Salkantay Trek 4D-3N

Forget the Inca Trail and hike to Machu Picchu along the higher, more beautiful and less touristy Salkantay Trail!<br/>Pickup included

What's included

Pre-departure briefing

Round Trip Tourist Bus Aguas Calientes - Machu Picchu

Bus Ollantaytambo to Cuzco

Lunch

Horseman and mules to carry cooking and camping equipment plus a total of 7 kilos for each trekker. (This includes 3 kilos for your sleeping bag & mattress plus 4 kilos of personal items.

Car Transfer La Playa to Santa Teresa to Hydroelectric Station

Dinner

Breakfast

Van Cuzco to Mollepata to Challacancha (starting point of trek)

Meals: 3B/3L/3D/2 snacks with typical menus

1-night 3* Hotel Accommodation at Aguas Calientes

Professional Bilingual Guide on trek & Machu Picchu tour

Camping Accommodation during trek (including Basic Sleeping Pad & tent for 2 people)

Small group experience; Max 16, Avg 4

First Aid kit

Emergency oxygen bottle

Cuzco Accommodation Pick-Up

Foam Sleeping Mat

Tourist Train Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo

What's not included

Day 1 Breakfast, Day 4 Lunch and Dinner, Bottled Water

Guide for bus and train transfers (these portions are on your own)

Optional Services

Accommodation in Cuzco

Tips (Please remember that tipping is 100% optional and depends entirely on the service you received. It is customary to give tips in Latin America, however it is NOT mandatory. If you do wish to give a tip, these are our recommended guidelines.

Guide: 40-60 soles per trekker

Assistant Guide: 30-40 soles per trekker

Horsemen: 60-80 soles for each horseman from the whole group

Cook: 150-200 soles for the cook from the whole group

Prices for optional activities are subject to change at any time without prior notice. Please confirm these prices before departing on the trek.

Trekking Permit Salkantay Trail

Machu Picchu

Train transfer from hydroelectric station to Aguas Calientes

Optional Huayna Picchu Trek

Optional Machu Picchu Mountain Hike

Optional Sleeping bag rental

Available languages

Guide guide

EN ES

Reviews breakdown

Tripadvisor 4.7

36 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries

Not recommended for pregnant travelers

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Travelers should have a high level of physical fitness

Minimum age is 7 years

Vegetarian option is available, please advise at time of booking if required

Accommodation Options: Single travelers will share a tent/room with another traveler and couples will have a tent/room to themselves.

Physical Requirements: This hike is demanding, it is important to be in good physical condition. There are important temperature changes associated with altitude changes (from 4000 meters to 2000 meters).

Important: You must provide the following information upon booking: Full name (exactly as it appears on the passport), date of birth, nationality, passport number, date of passport expiration.

As of June 11, 2022, all travelers over 18 years old must have three doses of the COVID-19 vaccine. That means two regular doses plus a booster. Passengers from 12 to 17 years old must prove they are vaccinated with two doses. If they do not have a complete scheme, they must present the negative result of an RT-PCR test taken no more than 48 hours before boarding in their country of origin.

Important notes

• Note: Full name (exactly as it appears on the passport), date of birth, nationality, passport number, date of passport expiration. Must be valid for at least 6 months past the date of travel. Without this information, the local tour operator will be unable to make the booking. Please be aware that your complete and correct passport information must be provided. Absolutely no modifications can be made once your booking has been confirmed. Any changes or discrepancies in the information provided will result in a complete loss of permits and entrance tickets, for which you will be held responsible and will need to pay for again.

*Please note that there is a mandatory pre-departure briefing at our Cuzco Headquarters one day prior to departure at 6 PM. You will receive detailed information on your excursion, a list of what to bring and confirm your departure details.

Meeting time: 6 PM
Bamba Experience is located at: Calle Matara 242, Second Floor. Cuzco, Peru
Emergency Contact: Ruth: +51 984 008 440 Sekwanele: +51 957 625 445

About Cusco

Cusco, the historic capital of the Inca Empire, is a captivating blend of Indigenous and colonial influences. Known for its well-preserved archaeological sites, vibrant culture, and stunning Andean landscapes, it's a gateway to Machu Picchu and the Sacred Valley. The city's rich history, combined with its lively arts scene and delicious cuisine, makes it a must-visit destination in South America.

Top Attractions

Sacred Valley

The Sacred Valley is a stunning region filled with Inca ruins, traditional villages, and breathtaking landscapes. It's a must-visit for history and nature lovers.

Historical/Nature Full day PEN 10-50 (USD 2.50-12.50) depending on the site

Machu Picchu

Machu Picchu is the iconic Inca citadel and one of the most famous archaeological sites in the world. Its breathtaking views and rich history make it a must-see.

Historical/Adventure Full day or overnight PEN 152 (USD 38) for entrance, train tickets vary

Qorikancha

Qorikancha, or the Temple of the Sun, was the most important temple in the Inca Empire. It's a fascinating blend of Inca and colonial architecture.

Historical/Religious 1-2 hours PEN 10 (USD 2.50)

Sacsayhuaman

Sacsayhuaman is a massive Inca fortress with impressive stone walls and panoramic views of Cusco. It's a testament to Inca engineering and military might.

Historical 1-2 hours PEN 10 (USD 2.50)

San Pedro Market

San Pedro Market is a bustling market offering a variety of fresh produce, local crafts, and traditional foods. It's a great place to experience local life.

Cultural/Food 1-2 hours Free to enter, prices vary for purchases

Must-Try Local Dishes

Cuy al Horno

Roasted guinea pig, a traditional Andean dish.

Main Course Not vegetarian

Lomo Saltado

Stir-fried beef with onions, tomatoes, and fries.

Main Course Can be made vegetarian

Aji de Gallina

Shredded chicken in a creamy, spicy sauce.

Main Course Not vegetarian

Sopa de Quinoa

Quinoa soup, a nutritious and traditional dish.

Soup Can be made vegetarian

Popular Activities

Hiking Trekking Mountain biking Whitewater rafting Visiting spas Exploring parks Enjoying local cafes Visiting museums

Best Time to Visit

May to September

This is the dry season, offering the best weather for exploring the city and its archaeological sites. The skies are clear, and temperatures are mild.

5°C to 20°C (41°F to 68°F) 41°F to 68°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Spanish
Widely spoken: Quechua, English (in tourist areas)
English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas, limited elsewhere

Currency

Peruvian Sol (PEN)

Time Zone

GMT-5

Electricity

220VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe with common-sense precautions

Cusco is generally safe for tourists, but petty crime can occur, especially in crowded areas. Be cautious with your belongings and avoid walking alone at night in poorly lit areas.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure
• Use reputable tour operators
• Be cautious with street food

Getting there

By air

Alejandro Velasco Astete International Airport • 5 km (3 miles) from city center

By train

San Pedro Station

By bus

Cusco Bus Terminal

Getting around

Public transport

Shared taxis (colectivos) are a common and affordable way to get around Cusco. They follow specific routes and can be flagged down.

Taxis

Available • Apps: InDriver, Easy Taxi

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Historic Center San Blas San Cristobal

Day trips

Pisac

35 km (22 miles) from Cusco • Full day

Pisac is a charming town known for its vibrant market and impressive Inca ruins. It's a great day trip from Cusco.

Ollantaytambo

60 km (37 miles) from Cusco • Full day or overnight

Ollantaytambo is a picturesque town with well-preserved Inca ruins and a gateway to Machu Picchu. It's a must-visit for history and adventure lovers.

Tipon

25 km (16 miles) from Cusco • Half day

Tipon is a beautiful archaeological site with well-preserved Inca terraces and water channels. It's a peaceful and less crowded alternative to other Inca sites.

Festivals

Inti Raymi • June 24 Cusco Festival of Music and Dance • August

Pro tips

Acclimatize to the altitude before engaging in strenuous activities
Dress in layers to accommodate changing temperatures
Learn a few basic phrases in Spanish or Quechua to enhance your experience
Visit the San Pedro Market early in the morning for the best selection and prices
Book tickets and train tickets in advance for Machu Picchu and other popular attractions