For those that are looking for an adventure and high altitude mountain landscapes that will challenge most trekkers, the Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu is your best choice. Visit the picturesque deep blue, crystal-clear lagoons that are named after the great mountains that sustain them, Lake Humantay and Lake Salkantay. Witness incomparable views of the towering snow-hooded mountain peaks of Humantay (5 473m/17 956ft) and Salkantay (6 271m/ 20 574ft). Follow the remote foot path up to the forgotten Inca Ruins of Llactapata where you have an extraordinary view of Machu Picchu. For your last morning, visit the famous and mystical World Heritage site of Machu Picchu Citadel! Experience for yourself what sets our alternative treks to Machu Picchu apart from what other tour operators have to offer. All our treks are customized, unique and personalized to suite the individual.
minimum 2, up to 8 people
Group
Adventure, hike
challenging
Your Salkantay Trek begins bright and early at 4:30 am. We’ll be there to pick you up from your hotel, and then we’ll embark on a 3.5-hour journey to the Soraypampa trailhead in our comfortable private van. As we navigate through the winding roads of the Andes, you’ll be treated to breathtaking views of Iscuchaca and Limatambo villages, the surrounding valleys, and the majestic snow-covered Salkantay Mountain. Once we reach the Soraypampa trailhead, a delightful and hearty breakfast awaits, allowing you to savor both the delicious food and the awe-inspiring sights of the Humantay Mountain (5,900m/19,356ft) and Salkantay Mountain (6,217m/20,396ft) glaciers.
After breakfast, we embark on a 2.5-hour round-trip hike to the captivating turquoise-blue Humantay Lake. Here, you’ll have the opportunity to immerse yourself in the mesmerizing beauty of this natural wonder, with its crystal-clear waters reflecting the surrounding landscape. Once you’ve taken in the breathtaking views, we’ll hike back down to the starting point, where our journey to Salkantay Pampa continues. There, a delicious hot lunch prepared by our talented chef awaits you.
Our next destination is the Soroccocha campsite, nestled at the base of the towering Salkantay Mountain. The arduous journey to the campsite allows for plenty of time to appreciate the surrounding natural wonders. As we arrive, afternoon tea and appetizers will be served to warm you up and satisfy your taste buds. Your tents will already be set up, providing a cozy and comfortable space for you to settle in before dinner.
In the morning, your guide will gently wake you up with a steaming cup of coffee or tea, allowing you to savor the warmth and aroma while still in the comfort of your sleeping bag. Once you’re ready to start your day, a delicious breakfast awaits, providing you with the energy you need for the adventure ahead.
After breakfast, we continue our journey, steadily ascending for approximately one hour until we reach the magnificent Apacheta Pass (4,650m/15,367ft). Here, you’ll be treated to awe-inspiring panoramic views of three majestic snow-capped mountains: Salkantay, Humantay, and Huayanay. These peaks hold great significance in Quechua culture, and your guide will share fascinating stories about their sacred importance in traditional Andean beliefs. As you admire the breathtaking scenery, you’ll also be captivated by the sight of rivers flowing with frothy whitewater and picturesque small lakes.
Following this unforgettable experience, we begin our descent to Huayracmachay, where a satisfying hot lunch awaits. The descent takes approximately two hours, during which you’ll have the opportunity to revel in the refreshing lush green valleys and marvel at the beauty of enchanting waterfalls. This part of the journey marks a transition from the arid Andean highlands to the warm and humid ambiance of the Amazon region.
From there, we’ll take local transportation to Lucmabamba, our next destination. Here, we’ll set up camp and indulge in the pleasure of preparing our own fresh coffee, immersing ourselves in the rich aroma and flavors of this beloved beverage.
After indulging in another comforting hot beverage within the warmth of your sleeping bag, you will be treated to a delightful final breakfast skillfully prepared by our chef. Energized and ready to embark on the next leg of our journey, we will follow in the footsteps of the ancient Inca along the remote and historic Inca Trail. For approximately three hours we will ascend uphill, making our way towards the Puncuyoc Pass (2,700m/8,858ft). Throughout this ascent, you will be mesmerized by the breathtaking vistas of expansive valleys stretching into the distance, adorned with flourishing fruit plantations.
Our destination is the Llactapata Inca Ruins, situated on the opposite side of the valley from the magnificent Machu Picchu. Upon our arrival, we will take a moment to appreciate the strategic positioning of the Citadel of Machu Picchu and the encompassing grandeur of Huayna Picchu, Machu Picchu Mountain, and the Aobamba Canyon. As we soak in this awe-inspiring setting, we will gradually descend for approximately two hours, eventually reaching the hydroelectric plant. This plant serves as the primary power source for the city of Cusco.
Adjacent to the hydroelectric plant, we will pause to enjoy a satisfying lunch. Following our meal, we will embark on a scenic half-hour train ride to Aguas Calientes, our next destination. In Aguas Calientes, we will have the pleasure of indulging in a delicious dinner and settling into our hotel, preparing for the final leg of our extraordinary journey.
Finally, the day you’ve been eagerly anticipating has arrived! After an early breakfast at your hotel, you’ll take one of the first buses up to Machu Picchu, ensuring that you can witness the breathtaking sunrise. Undoubtedly, it is a truly extraordinary sight and not something you’ll want to miss! Moving on, your guide will provide you with a comprehensive tour, which typically takes about two hours. During this time, you will have the opportunity to see many of the most important parts of the Machu Picchu Citadel. Moreover, your guide will enlighten you about the distinct divisions of Machu Picchu, encompassing the agricultural, residential, and religious sectors.
After the enlightening tour, those who have made prior arrangements for an additional hike up Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain will have the chance to relish the hike and soak in the awe-inspiring views on their own. Once you have had your fill of the exceptional views of Machu Picchu, it will be time to take the bus back down to Aguas Calientes for lunch (lunch not included).
Depending on your train departure time, you may also have some spare time for shopping, sightseeing, or even a visit to the museum or hot springs. Your train will depart at either 2:55 pm or 3:20 pm.
Subsequently, the train will transport you back to Ollantaytambo, tracing the course of the spectacular Urubamba River. As you approach Aguas Calientes, the canyon becomes narrower, unveiling numerous breathtaking sections of whitewater along the river. Keep an eye out, and you might even glimpse Wiñay Wayna high on the steep canyon wall! Once you reach Ollantaytambo, your driver will be awaiting you at the train station’s exit to accompany you back to your hotel in Cusco using our private vehicle. Anticipate arriving at your hotel around 7:00 pm, taking into account potential traffic conditions.
**Huayna Picchu and Machu Picchu Mountain are optional treks within Machu Picchu Citadel which do not include a guide. The climb is usually done on your own after your tour of Machu Picchu Citadel. If you would like the extra hike to be guided, please request it in advance. There is an extra cost for this extra guided tour.
Our 4-day Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu can depart on any date that is best suited to you, as long as we have a minimum of 2 participants!
Pack horses included! This price includes an extra pack horse which will carry your belongings up to 7 kilos. We will provide you with a duffel bag in which you can put your things. We provide large Eureka 4-person tents for every 2 trekkers.
**Huayna Picchu and Machu Picchu Mountain are optional treks within Machu Picchu Citadel which do not include a guide. The climb is usually done on your own after your tour of Machu Picchu Citadel. If you would like the extra hike to be guided, please request it in advance. There is an extra cost for this extra guided tour.
Please read the following information carefully. It will help with your questions about our services and the Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu 4 days
Upon your arrival at the airport in Cusco, our team will be there to warmly welcome you. To ensure a smooth process, kindly provide us with your complete flight details at least 14 days before your trek begins. Look for our friendly representative who will be holding a distinctive Orange SAM CORPORATIONS board at the exit of the arrivals terminal.
Before your trek begins, we will provide you with a comprehensive briefing the evening prior. The briefing will be held at our office at 6 pm, conveniently located at Calle Garcilaso 210, office 213 (second floor) in the La CASA DEL ABUELO shopping center.
Absolutely! We understand that carrying your main luggage during the Salkantay trek to Machu Picchu for 4 days may not be ideal. You have the option to store your main luggage either at our office or at your hotel, depending on what suits you best. We want to ensure that you have a comfortable and hassle-free trekking experience. Simply let us know your preference, and we’ll make the necessary arrangements to accommodate your needs.
To book your incredible adventure on THE SALKANTAY TREK 4 DAYS to Machu Picchu Trek, we kindly ask you to complete our booking form. Just head over to our homepage and click on the “BOOK NOW” button or click the link here: BOOK NOW
Before you begin, please make sure you have the following information ready for EACH participant in your group. We want to ensure that your experience is seamless, and we need these details to secure your permits for the Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu:
Please note that we require copies of everyone’s passports as they are mandatory for permit purchases.
Once you have filled out the necessary information, we kindly request a deposit of $211.00 USD per person to secure your spot on the Short Inca Trail. You can conveniently make your deposit by clicking on the VISA or PAYPAL symbols located at the top of our homepage, or you can also find these symbols on our booking page.
We appreciate your cooperation and look forward to providing you with an unforgettable experience on the Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu Trek!
It’s important to note that once the tickets for Machu Picchu have been purchased, the government imposes certain restrictions. Specifically, it is not possible to make any changes to the departure dates. Additionally, it’s crucial to be aware that the tickets are non-transferable and non-refundable. If there is a need to modify your date, we kindly request that you reach out to our office at your earliest convenience. We understand that circumstances may arise, but please keep in mind that the deposit for the Salkantay Trek Machu Picchu is non-refundable in the event of cancellation.
ABSOLUTELY! It is absolutely essential that you bring your original passport for your Salkantay 4-day Trek to Machu Picchu, as well as for other entrances and reservations. Moreover, it is crucial that the passport number you provided us during the booking process remains the same. In the event that you are in the process of renewing your passport or undergoing a name change, we kindly request that you furnish us with the information from your old passport to secure your permit. Once you obtain your new passport number or update your name, we can make the necessary changes for a fee of $25 USD per person.
To facilitate the modification, we require copies of both your old and new passports. We highly recommend keeping a copy of your old passport before making any changes. If you prefer to avoid the additional fee, it is necessary to bring both passports with you to Peru. While you can enter Peru using your new passport, it is imperative that you present both the old and new passports at the trail entrance, Machu Picchu, and the train. Failure to have both passports in your possession will result in denial of entry to Machu Picchu and being unable to board the train.
The weather in the region can be highly unpredictable, making it challenging to anticipate specific conditions. To prepare for this variability, we recommend dressing in layers. This will allow you to easily adjust your clothing to accommodate quickly changing weather patterns. By wearing layers, you can add or remove clothing as needed to stay comfortable throughout your trek.
**We highly recommend spending at least 2 days in Cusco before the Salkantay Trek to acclimatize.
Typically, if you maintain a regular exercise routine and spend a few days in Cusco or the Sacred Valley, you should be able to acclimate to the altitude without any major issues. The acclimatization process usually takes around 1 to 2 days.
To alleviate the symptoms of altitude sickness, we recommend following a few remedies. First and foremost, it is essential to stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water. Additionally, coca tea is known to be beneficial in mitigating the effects of altitude sickness, and our guides are well-trained to assist you in case you experience any discomfort. In more severe cases, oxygen can be provided if necessary. For further detailed information on altitude sickness, you can refer to this link: Altitude Sickness.
By taking these precautions and following the advice provided, you can help ensure a more comfortable and enjoyable experience as you adapt to the altitude.
On the evening prior to commencing your Salkantay trek, you will be provided with a small duffel bag. This duffel bag will serve as your designated luggage for the next four days. It is important to note that the weight allowance for your duffel bag is up to 7kg/15 lbs. This bag, along with the food and camping equipment, will be transported by our team of pack horses. However, it is crucial to be aware that you will not have access to your duffel bag during the day, as the pack horses will always be ahead of the group.
During the Salkantay trek to Machu Picchu, it is advisable to carry a day backpack that is spacious enough to accommodate your personal belongings. This includes items such as a warm jacket, a rain jacket, your camera, sunscreen, snacks, water, and other essentials. A backpack with a capacity of 30 to 40 liters is typically sufficient to meet your needs during the trek. By ensuring you have a suitable day backpack, you can comfortably carry your essentials and keep them readily accessible throughout the journey.
The Salkantay 4-day Trek is considered a very challenging trek, and it is crucial to be adequately prepared and in good health before embarking on this adventure. To ensure a successful trekking experience, it is recommended that you have a moderate level of fitness and engage in regular exercise. In the months leading up to the trek, it is beneficial to incorporate activities such as walking approximately 15 kilometers or 9 miles per day or engaging in a regular workout routine.
Furthermore, being well-acclimatized to the altitude is of utmost importance. It is highly recommended to spend at least 2 or 3 days in Cusco or the Sacred Valley (at an altitude of 3350m/11,047ft) before commencing the trek. This acclimatization period allows your body to adjust to the high altitude, reducing the risk of altitude sickness and enhancing your overall trekking experience.
By ensuring you are physically prepared and properly acclimatized, you can embark on the Salkantay 4-day Trek with confidence, enabling you to fully enjoy the stunning landscapes and immersive experience that awaits you.
If you are satisfied with the services provided during your tour, it is customary and greatly appreciated to give a tip. Tipping is an important part of the tourism industry in various destinations, including those offered by SAM CORPORATION. Firstly, it serves as a way to show appreciation to the staff who have taken care of you throughout your tour. Furthermore, it can inspire them to continue providing excellent service in the future. Importantly, the amount you choose to tip is entirely up to you. It should be based on factors such as your budget, the level of satisfaction with the service you received, and the duration of your tour.
At our core, we are a local, sustainable, and responsible tourism operator. We commit ourselves to upholding the universal principles of tourism, which involve protecting the environment and supporting the well-being of local communities while respecting their culture and religion. In order to uphold these principles, we have implemented several measures.
Firstly, we prioritize comprehensive training for all our local staff. This training equips them with the necessary knowledge and understanding to respect the places we visit and the local people we interact with. Moreover, we emphasize the significance of cultural sensitivity and responsible tourism practices. By doing so, we aim to foster meaningful and positive experiences for both our guests and the communities we engage with.
As a local tour operator, we provide a duffel bag and an extra-pack horse for your Salkantay trek. The duffel bag should not exceed 7 kilograms (15 pounds) to comply with Peruvian law and ensure the well-being of porters and horses. This includes your 3kg sleeping bag. If you need to exceed the weight limit, you can carry the extra weight in your day pack or request an additional porter for a fee.
We highly recommend a small backpack 30 to 40L for hiking in the day. A big backpack will not be allowed into Machu Picchu. The remainder of your belongings will be in your duffel bag at camp. It is important to remember you will not have access to your duffel during the hike as the porters/pack horses will always be ahead of the group. You will find your duffel in your tent once arriving to camp.
Cusco
Humantay Lake
Aguas Calientes
Machu Picchu
Sam Corporations
Our company is 100% locally owned. We directly contribute to economic development and environmental sustainability in Peru.
The quality of our service is one of our most important values which demands all our effort, determination, and courage to be successful in what we are doing and the services we provide
We aim to have a positive impact in all the areas that we visit. Through our training sessions and social projects, we empower women, indigenous communities and children
Our groups never exceed 10 people, giving you a personalized tour in our small comfortable vans
Interested in visiting only specific destinations? No problem, all our packages can be fully customized to suit your budget and schedule. Contact our travel advisors to plan the most comprehensive trip of a lifetime.
We commit socially and culturally to the community and adapt our business strategies to the preservation of the environment
Quality
Contact our travel advisors to plan the most complete trip of your life.
Simplified ease of communication, text us on WhatsApp, email or call us.
Our guides are local and have vast knowledge in Peruvian culture and history.
100% local company. Development and environmental sustainability
Our groups never exceed 10 people, giving you an unforgettable experience
Discover an exceptional journey where perfection meets adventure.
