Embark on an unforgettable Salkantay Trek 4 days, where you will discover the stunning landscapes of Peru. From the moment you begin, this adventure offers a perfect blend of nature, history, and adventure, ensuring a truly authentic experience. Additionally, you will connect with local communities, immerse yourself in the vibrant culture of the region, and learn about Peru’s ancient history along the way.
The Salkantay Trek 4 days is ideal for those looking for an experience deep in the heart of the Andes. Not only will you have the chance to witness some of the most incredible scenery, but you will also disconnect from the modern world and breathe in the pure mountain air. As a result, this trek is perfect for both experienced trekkers and those new to high-altitude adventures, offering a profound opportunity to reconnect with nature and history.
Tour Itinerary:
Day 1: Cusco – Mollepata – Humantay Lake – Salkantaypampa
We begin our adventure by picking you up from your hotel at 5:00 AM. Afterward, we will drive for approximately 4 hours to reach Anta-Mollepata. Along the way, you will witness the awe-inspiring views of the Salkantay and Veronica mountains. Furthermore, the changing landscapes, from highlands to lush valleys, will captivate you at every turn.
Once we arrive, we will stop for a delicious breakfast in Soraypampa. Then, we will meet our team, organize the mules, and get ready for our first hike. By 9:30 AM, we will begin the trek towards Humantay Lake (4,200 m.a.s.l), a 3-hour round trip. Upon reaching the lake, you will be greeted by the sight of the Humantay glacier, and the lake’s stunning turquoise waters will leave you speechless. We will take about an hour to enjoy the views before returning to Soraypampa for a well-deserved lunch.
Later on, we will continue our hike towards Salkantaypampa, where we will camp for the night. This campsite, at the foot of glaciers, offers spectacular views of the mountains and is an ideal spot to relax and watch the sunset. Therefore, the night skies will be filled with stars, giving you a sense of peace and tranquility only found in the heart of the Andes.
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Elevation Gain: 731 m / 2,398 ft
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Elevation Loss: 388 m / 1,272 ft
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Walking Distance: 8 km / 4.97 miles
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Starting Elevation: 4,300 m / 14,107 ft
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Highest Point: 4,200 m / 13,779 ft
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Hiking Duration: Approximately 5 hours
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Campsite Elevation: 4,220 m / 13,779 ft
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Difficulty Level: Moderate to Challenging
Day 2: Soraypampa – Salkantay Pass – Huayramachay – Ccollpampa
On Day 2, we begin early with a cup of coca tea at 5:00 AM, followed by breakfast. Once we are ready, we will tackle the most challenging part of the trek: ascending to the Salkantay Pass at 4,620 m.a.s.l (15,255 ft). This section of the trail will take approximately 3 hours, and the steep climb is certainly not for the faint-hearted. However, the rewards are more than worth it, with panoramic views of the snow-capped peaks surrounding you.
After reaching the summit, we will pause to admire the view before beginning our descent toward Huayracmachay for lunch. In addition, we will continue our way down, covering 9 km over 3 hours to arrive at Challway Village (2,900 m.a.s.l / 9,514 ft). As we descend into the cloud forest, the air grows warmer, and we’ll pass through lush greenery and fields dotted with orchids. You may also encounter some local wildlife during this part of the trek, making it even more memorable.
Later, we will set up camp in Ccollpampa, where you will enjoy a delicious dinner prepared by our team. Additionally, this campsite offers a perfect view of the valley, and it’s the ideal place to rest and relax after an exhilarating day of trekking.
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Elevation Gain: 562 m / 1,843 ft
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Elevation Loss: 1,900 m / 6,233 ft
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Walking Distance: 18 km / 11.19 miles
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Hiking Duration: Approximately 10 hours
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Starting Elevation: 4,220 m / 13,779 ft
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Campsite Elevation: 2,900 m / 9,514 ft
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Highest Point: 4,650 m / 15,235 ft
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Difficulty Level: Challenging
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Accommodation: Tents
Day 3: Collpapampa – Lucmabamba – Aguas Calientes
After an early breakfast at 5:30 AM, we will begin our 7-hour trek, covering 16 km. Along the way, we will pass through lush jungle and scenic landscapes, stopping in small villages to sample fresh fruits such as passion fruit, bananas, and mangoes. Additionally, you may spot Peru’s national bird, the Cock of the Rock, and other wildlife as you walk through this lush area.
By noon, we will reach Lucmabamba for a well-deserved lunch. Afterward, we will take a 30-minute ride to the Hydroelectric station and, from there, board the train to Aguas Calientes. Once in Aguas Calientes, you will check into your 3-star hotel, where you can relax before the final leg of the trek. In the evening, we will gather for dinner and prepare for the exciting visit to Machu Picchu the following morning.
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Elevation Gain: 229 m / 751 ft
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Elevation Loss: 999 m / 3,277 ft
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Walking Distance: 15 km / 9.32 miles
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Hiking Duration: Approximately 6 hours
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Starting Elevation: 2,900 m / 9,514 ft
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Difficulty Level: Moderate
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Accommodation: 3-star hotel in Aguas Calientes
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Train Ride from Hydroelectric to Aguas Calientes: 45 minutes
Day 4: Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu – Ollantaytambo – Cusco
The final day of your trek begins with an early bus ride to Machu Picchu. Upon arrival, we will show our passports, enter the citadel, and start our guided tour. The first stop will be the Guardhouse for the iconic view of Machu Picchu. Following this, we will take Circuit 2, visiting key areas such as the Main Plaza, the Inca Baths, and the Sacred Plaza. The guide will explain the rich history and significance of each site during a 2-hour tour.
For those who opted to hike Huayna Picchu, there will be an opportunity to do so after the tour. Once the tour is over, we will return to Aguas Calientes and then board the train to Ollantaytambo. Finally, we will take a bus back to Cusco, where the Salkantay Trek 4 days comes to a close around 7:30 PM.
