Cusco,Soraypampa,Paucarcancha,Ollantaytambo,Machupicchu
- Time 4 Days / 3 Nights
- Tour Type Hike
- Altitude 3850 m.a.s.l.
- Place Cusco
- Difficulty Moderate
Trip Description
We welcome you to the impressive “Salkantay Trek in 3 days”, an experience that combines adventure and culture, taking you to explore some of the most impressive landscapes of Peru. During this excursion, you will have the opportunity to cross the majestic Salkantay snow-capped mountain, enjoying panoramic views and visiting exciting archaeological sites.
Along the way, you will have the option to spend a night in the exclusive DOMOS or Sky Camps, where you will enjoy a unique and unparalleled lodging experience. These glass rooms will provide you with incomparable views of the mountains and the Cusco sky, allowing you to connect intimately with nature. The DOMOS are the perfect complement to a tourist adventure, as they will allow you to rest comfortably while enjoying the natural beauty.
In summary, the Salkantay Tour is the ideal choice for travelers seeking adventure and culture in one of the most beautiful regions of Peru. With its breathtaking landscapes, archaeological sites and the possibility of spending a night in the DOMOS, this excursion will be an unforgettable experience that will remain engraved in your memory forever. Join us in this exciting adventure!
Short itinerary
Day 01: Cusco – Mollepata – Challa cancha – Soraypampa
We will pick you up at your hotel and depart by bus from Cusco to Mollepata. Then, we will start the hike and have lunch in Soraypampa. You will have the option to visit the Humantay Lagoon. Afterwards, we will have dinner and spend the night in our Domes, after walking approximately 13 km. during the day.
Day 02: Soraypampa – Abra Salkantay – Wayracpunko – Chaullay
We will start with a delicious breakfast before our hike to the ‘Abra Salkantay’. Afterwards, we will head to Pacaymayu to enjoy a comforting lunch. In the evening, we will enjoy a tasty dinner and rest at our campsite in Chaullay. During this day, we will walk an average of 22 km on foot.
Day 03: Chaullay – The beach – Santa Teresa – Hydroelectric – Aguas Calientes – Hotel
We will start the day with breakfast and then we will walk to Sahuayaco beach. After walking, we will have lunch and then we will take a transport to Hidroeléctrica. From there, we will walk to Aguas Calientes, where we will have dinner and spend the night in a lodge in town. During this day, we will walk an average of 16 km.
Day 4: Machupicchu
We will start the day with breakfast at the lodge, then we will take a bus to Machu Picchu. There, we will enjoy a guided tour of Machu Picchu. Afterwards, we will hike back to Aguas Calientes. Finally, we will head back to the city of Cusco by train and bus. This concludes our tour.
| Day 1 | Day 2 | Day 3 | Day 4 | |
| Exit point | Cusco | Soraypampa | Chaullay | Machu Picchu |
| Arrival point | Soraypampa Domes | Chaullay | Aguas Calientes | Cusco (Hotel) |
| Activities | Transfer from Cuzco to Mollepata – Hike | Hike | Hike – Transfer to Santa Teresa. | Visit to Machu Picchu and return to Cuzco. |
| Distance / duration | 16 Km. / 7-8 h. | 19 Km. / 8-9 h. | 32 Km. / 10 h. | |
| Breakfast | ||||
| Lunch | ||||
| Dinner |
Complete Itinerary
Day 01: Cusco – Mollepata – Challa cancha- Soraypampa- Laguna Humantay.
Cusco (3,400 masl): The day begins with hotel pick-up at 4:00 a.m. Afterwards, we will head to the picturesque village of Mollepata, a journey that will take approximately 2.5 hours. Once there, we will enjoy a delicious breakfast before starting our hike.
Challa cancha (3,600 masl): we will continue our walk for an hour, where you will have the opportunity to contemplate the impressive valleys of Mollepata. In Challa cancha, we will meet our entire Salkantay team, which includes the cook, the muleteers and the mules or pack horses. You will receive a warm welcome from them, who will prepare us for our exciting adventure in the mountains. Before starting the hike, a brief explanation will be given. For three hours, we will walk through the flat Andean terrain to acclimatize properly and be prepared for the rest of the trek. In addition, we will enjoy the views of the Nevado de Humantay, which rises majestically to an altitude of 5,917 meters above sea level.
Soraypampa (3,900 masl): Afterwards, we continue our way to Soraypampa, where the cozy “Salkantay Sky Domes” await us. From there, we will be able to contemplate the imposing Salkantay mountain. Upon arrival at the camp, our team will welcome us and we will enjoy a delicious Andean lunch. Afterwards, we will take a well-deserved 30-minute rest to recharge our batteries.
Humantay Lagoon (4,200 masl): after having lunch and resting, we begin our trek to the magnificent Humantay Lagoon, which will last about an hour and a half. We will have enough time to enjoy the beautiful scenery of the lagoon and the glaciers that adorn the mountain. Then, we will descend to our campsite, where we will be greeted by tea time, a perfect moment to chat with the group and share experiences. Afterwards, we will enjoy a delicious dinner and finally we will take a well-deserved rest.
- Meals: Lunch and Dinner
- Time: 8 Hours Approx.
- Distance: 16 kilometers Approx. from Challa Cancha to Soraypampa.
- Weather: Cold and windy
- Maximum Altitude: 4,200 masl (Humantay Lagoon) (13,799 ft.)
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Camping: Luxury Domes “Salkantay Sky Domes”.
Day 02: Soraypampa – Abras Salkantay – Wayracpunko – Chaullay
Soraypampa (3,900 masl): We will enjoy a hot breakfast at approximately 5:30 in the morning and then begin our hike to the highest point of this trek (4650m / 15200ft), located between two imposing mountains.
Abra Salkantay highest point (4,630 masl): During our hike, we will witness the full majesty of the imposing Salkantay mountain. It is amazing to contemplate the magnificence that nature and divine creation reveal to us.
Huayracpunku (4,000 masl): Salkantay and Humantay, with heights of 6271m / 20575ft and 4120m / 13500ft respectively, will be two impressive sceneries during our trek. From the pass, we will be able to enjoy panoramic views of these majestic snow-capped mountains. As we descend, we will cross a beautiful cloud forest until we reach Huayracpunku, where a delicious lunch awaits us.
Chaullay (2,800 masl): After lunch, we will begin our next stage of the trek, entering the jungle as we make our way to our second campsite. Here, we will be able to enjoy a comforting dinner. During the trek, we will have the opportunity to appreciate the impressive Andean landscape, right at the place where we will set up our camp, located at an altitude of approximately 2900m.
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
- Time: 9 Hours Approx.
- Distance: 19 kilometers Approx.
- Weather: Cold, Windy and Warm.
- Maximum Altitude: 4630 meters (20,671 feet) – 4,000 m (13,000 ft).
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Campsite: Chaullay
Day 03: Chaullay – La playa – Santa teresa – Hydroelectric – Aguas calientes – Hotel
Chaullay (2,800 masl): We begin our hike early in the morning (6:00 am), after enjoying a delicious breakfast. This day is extremely fascinating, as we will be able to delight ourselves with a wide variety of flora, including medicinal and esoteric plants and orchids. We will continue our tour passing through the following villages.
La Playa (2,064 masl): We continue our journey until we reach Collpa Pampa la Playa, a wonderful place where we will find relaxing hot springs. Here we will have the opportunity to dive and enjoy these baths for about an hour, and then continue to the beach, where a delicious lunch awaits us. We will take a break for about an hour and then continue our journey to Santa Teresa. For this stretch, we will have local transportation in the area.
Hidroeléctrica (1,820 masl): Once we arrive in Santa Teresa, we will board another means of transportation to head towards Hidroeléctrica. Once there, we will be ready to embark on the last leg of our journey to Aguas Calientes.
Aguas Calientes (2,040 masl): From Hidroeléctrica, we will begin a 3-hour hike to Aguas Calientes. Once there, we will enjoy a comforting bath in our hotel. Afterwards, we will enjoy a delicious dinner and stay in a comfortable hotel to rest.
- Time: 9 hours, walking and by car.
- Distance: 32 kilometers Approx.
- Weather: Warm,
- Maximum Altitude: 2800 masl.
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Lodging: Aguas Calientes Hotel
- Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Day 4: Machupicchu
Aguas Calientes (2,040 masl): We will wake up at 4:30 in the morning and then enjoy breakfast at our hotel at 5:00 am.
Machu Picchu (2,430 masl): We will organize to board one of the first buses to Machu Picchu, following the “first come, first served” system. The bus ride takes approximately 25 to 30 minutes to the citadel of Machu Picchu, which opens at 6:00 am.
It is important that you carry your original passport, the same one you used to book your trip, as the park rangers will ask you to show it (you can also get a Machu Picchu stamp in your passport if you wish).
Your guide will be available to help you find the best places from where you can appreciate the Machu Picchu Sanctuary (and take the perfect photo for your Facebook profile!). We will present our entrance tickets to Machu Picchu, showing our passport, and begin our visit.
The guide will be waiting to start a guided tour of approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes through the sanctuary of Machu Picchu. We will visit the different archaeological sites, such as the Agricultural Zone, Urban Zone, Temple of the Sun, Royal Residence, Sacred Plaza, Inti Huatana, Sacred Rock and many other points that will surely surprise you.
According to the available schedules we have are 14:30 p.m., 16:12 p.m. or 19:00 p.m., we will board our train bound for Ollantaytambo or Poroy.
Optional:
- Huayna Picchu: If you wish to add an additional adventure to your visit, you can choose to ascend Huayna Picchu and enjoy its spectacular views. However, it is important to book in advance and it has an additional cost of $35 per person. The ascent to the top takes approximately 45 minutes and represents quite a challenge.
- Machu Picchu Mountain: In addition, another option is to climb Machu Picchu Mountain, a hike of approximately 90 minutes upwards. It is quite a challenging trail and requires an additional cost of $25 per person. However, this route offers probably the most beautiful and spectacular views of all. You will be able to enjoy truly breathtaking panoramic views.
- Buffet Lunch: We suggest the MAPI Restaurant, which has an additional charge of $25.00.
What's included
What’s Included Salkantay Trek:
- Transfers In/ Out
- Transportation Cusco -Mollepata.
- Professional bilingual guide (English – Spanish).
- Pack horses and muleteer (5 kilos per person until the 3rd day).
- 03 breakfasts – 03 Lunches – 03 Dinners
- Professional Cook
- Camping Equipment “Triple waterproof tents for each 02 personal flasks”.
- Camping Equipment for the Guides, Cooks and Porters.
- 01 Night Hotel with private bathroom and hot water in Machupicchu.
- First Aid Kit
- Oxygen Balloon.
- Entrance to Salkantay Sanctuary and Humantay Lagoon.
- Horsemen and horses.
- Duffle Bag “Duffle Bag Salkantay” to bring your personal belongings,
- 1st night in Soraypampa Sky Domes camp (dome, quadruple or triple room).
- 2nd night in Chaullay Tent camp (shared double twin).
- Shared transportation Playa Sahuayaco – Hidroeléctrica.
- 3rd night at Hotel ** in Aguas Calientes (private room with private bathroom, toiletries, towels).
- Entrance tickets to Machupicchu
- Return train tickets (Expedition) to Cusco.
- 01 bus up and down
- Transfer from Ollantaytambo – Cusco – Hotel.
What Salkantay Trek does NOT include:
- Shower in Soraypampa camp (no access).
- Shower access in Chaullay camp (S/. 10 per person).
- Access to shower in Santa Teresa camp (S/. 5 per person).
- Extra weight of luggage.
- Breakfast on the first day (S/. 15 per person), last lunch and dinner.
- Boiled water at base camps.
- Entrance ticket to Cocalmayo hot springs (optional activity, S/. 25 per person).
- Ticket for zipline (optional activity, 30.00 USD per person).
- Train Hydroelectric – Aguas Calientes (optional, 40.00 USD per person).
- Ascent to Machu Picchu Mountain (25.00 USD per person).
- Ascent to Huayna Picchu Mountain (25.00 USD per person).
- Tips or personal appreciation, optional 10% of the cost of your package.
- Travel and medical insurance.
Recommendations
Recommendations for your trip:
- Sunscreen
- Original passport
- CIIU (student discount card), in case you have it.
- Small backpack
- Rain poncho
- Good hiking pants, hiking boots, sun, hat and sunglasses
- Camera batteries and extra
- 2 liters of water
- Extra money
- Insect repellent
- Trekking poles
- Snacks
- Shorts
- Walking stick (with rubber tip)
- Bandages
- Sandals
- Extra money
- Swimsuit (for the hot springs in Aguas Calientes) entrance fee at the door $ 4.00 dollars
Prices
TOUR IN SHARED SERVICETour Salkantay Trek with domes to Machupicchu PRICE PER PERSON Minimum 02 people |
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Tour summary
What’s Included:
TYPE OF TOURIST TRAIN
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Important note:
The train service THE VOYAGER – Inca Rail or EXPEDITION Train – Peru Rail, if you prefer the service in the VISTADOME Train, the additional cost is US$ 45.00 per person round trip.
In addition, we have different prices for students, children and infants.
FAQS
Frequently Asked Questions from travelers
What age is the tour not suitable for?
Our hike is suitable for all people in good health. To ensure an optimal experience, we recommend that people over 60 years of age are in good physical condition. In addition, children who wish to participate must be at least 8 years old and enjoy hiking.
Can I buy bottled water along the trail?
Yes, it is feasible to find establishments along the route where you can purchase bottles of water. In this way, we also support the local economy.
Is there food with vegetarian option?
Of course, it is possible to make the request in advance.
Is the Salkantay Trek dangerous?
No, the tour is safe. However, it is advisable to follow the signs and the advice of the tour guide.
Is the trek possible all year round? When should I not go?
Of course! The Salkantay Trek is feasible all year round. However, it is important to keep in mind that the most challenging months are January, February and March due to heavy rains. The rest of the year, the route is more comfortable, as rainfall is scarce.
Is the visit to Huayna Picchu Mountain included?
The entrance fee included is for “Machupicchu Solo”. If you wish, you can request the entrance fee for “Huayna Picchu” for an additional cost of $20.
Can I go on my own?
Yes it is possible but not recommended. If you decide to go on your own, be sure to bring a backpack with warm clothes, camping gear and enough food for each day. However, most visitors prefer to go on tour, as it is a more organized and comfortable experience.
How difficult is the 4-day Salkantay Trek?
The 4-day Salkantay Trek can be challenging due to the altitude and uneven terrain. However, anyone in good physical condition can undertake it with proper preparation.
Is previous trekking experience needed to do the trek?
No previous hiking experience is necessary, but good physical condition is recommended. Challenging terrain, preparation and consult health professional if needed.
What does Salkantay mean?
“Salkantay” is a word that comes from the Quechua language, spoken by the indigenous communities of the Andean region of Peru. In Quechua, “Salkantay” refers to a snow-capped mountain located in the Vilcabamba Mountain Range, near the city of Cusco.
Do I need travel insurance for Salkantay trek?
It is highly recommended to obtain travel insurance for the Salkantay Trek and other outdoor adventures. It provides protection in case of injury, illness, cancellations and lost luggage. Check that it covers trekking and high altitudes. Travel insurance gives you peace of mind and helps you deal with unexpected situations during the Salkantay Trek.
What is the difference between the traditional Salkantay and the Salkantay 3D?
- Traditional Salkantay: Classic 4-5 day route, Salkantay pass, panoramic landscapes and arrival at Machu Picchu.
- Salkantay 3D: Shorter 3-day version, highlights Laguna Humantay, Salkantay pass and arrival at Machu Picchu.
- Differences: Duration, highlights and approach, but both reach Machu Picchu and offer beautiful scenery.
What is the best time of the year to do the Salkantay trek?
The ideal season to do the Salkantay Trek is during the dry season, which runs from April to October. During this period, rains are less frequent and the weather is more stable, allowing for a more comfortable trek and providing breathtaking panoramic views of the mountains and landscapes. However, from November to March, the route features more lush vegetation and the trails are usually less crowded.
What are the main points of interest along the Salkantay trek?
Along the Salkantay Trek, there are several notable points of interest. Some of them include:
- Laguna Humantay: A beautiful turquoise lagoon located at the foot of the snow-capped Humantay. It is an impressive scenic spot and is usually a stop on the first day of the trek.
- Salkantay Pass: The highest point of the trek, located at an altitude of approximately 4,600 meters. It offers panoramic views of the mountains, glaciers and surrounding landscapes.
- Cloud Forest: During the trek, you will cross the cloud forest, an area full of lush vegetation and great biodiversity.
- Santa Teresa Village: A picturesque village where hikers can enjoy natural hot springs to relax after several days of hiking.
- Llactapata Archaeological Zone: An archaeological site that offers panoramic views of Machu Picchu in the distance. It is a fascinating place to learn about the history and culture of the region.
- Machu Picchu: The final destination of the trek, one of the wonders of the modern world. It is an impressive Inca citadel and an iconic place to explore and marvel at.
These are just some of the points of interest along the Salkantay Trek. Each day of the trek offers amazing scenery and unique experiences that make the journey unforgettable.
Are there restrooms along the Salkantay Trek?
Along the Salkantay Trek there are basic restrooms at some points along the route. It is recommended to bring toilet paper and personal hygiene products. Some camps and lodges may have better facilities, but it varies according to the company. It is important to ask before starting the trek.
