Altitud Maxima

4,215 m / 13,829 ft

Duracion del Tour

4 Days

Tamaño de Grupo

Up to 10 people

Nivel Fisico

Easy

Tipo de Tour

Adventure

Tipo de alojamiento

Camping & Lodges

Resumen

This 4-day Salkantay Trek leads to Machu Picchu and suits people who want a complete experience without extra days. It mixes physical effort with views of high mountains and green areas in the Andes. Participants walk through different heights, see ice-covered peaks, and pass through thick plant areas. The path gives a chance to learn about old Inca ways and current local customs. Each part of the trip builds on the last, creating a steady flow from start to end.

The first day focuses on reaching a blue water body called Humantay Lagoon. Travelers leave Cusco early and drive to a starting point. Then they hike up to the lagoon at about 4,200 meters. After time there, they go down to a camp spot named Quiswarniyoc. This place sits near tall mountains. The camp has simple setups for rest. Food comes ready, and people can walk around a bit before night.

On the second day, the group goes up to Salkantay Pass, the top spot at 4,700 meters. This climb tests strength but offers close looks at the mountain. Guides share stories about the area. After the pass, the path goes down into warmer zones with more trees. The camp at Chawllay is lower, at 2,900 meters. Here, the air feels different, and plants change.

The third day covers the Santa Teresa Valley. Walkers see farms and try local coffee at a family place in Lucmabamba. Lunch follows, then a drive to Hydroelectrica. From there, a flat walk along tracks reaches Aguas Calientes. This town sits near Machu Picchu. A hotel stay allows rest before the main visit.

The fourth day is for exploring Machu Picchu. People go up early, either walking or by bus. A guide explains the Inca sites in detail. After, options include extra climbs if tickets allow. Return to Cusco happens by train or car, based on choice.

This trek fits those with some fitness. It covers about 67 kilometers total. Heights range from 2,000 to 4,700 meters. Weather shifts from cold highs to warm lows. Local foods use fresh items from the area.

I remember a traveler who said the pass felt tough but worth it for the quiet up there. Such moments add to the trip. Peru Qantu Adventures handles details so you focus on the walk.

4 Days

Lo mas destacado

Our trek uses private campsites like Quiswarniyoc, which other agencies skip for crowded spots, giving quieter nights.
Guides from Peru Qantu Adventures speak multiple languages and have years on this route, unlike basic tours from competitors.
We include a coffee tasting in Lucmabamba with local families, adding cultural depth not in shorter agency options.
Private transportation owned by the agency with trained drivers ensures safe rides, better than shared vans in other packages.
Foods come from local organic sources, with options for international dishes at extra cost—consult our reservations team.
A representative tracks your itinerary always, providing support not common in budget tours.
For the train to Machu Picchu area, choose PeruRail for more schedule choices or Inca Rail for simpler service with fewer stops.
Detailed explanations at each stop by expert guides make history clear, surpassing quick overviews in rival treks.

Detalles del Tour

Duration: 4 days total, with 3 days of walking and 1 day at Machu Picchu.
Starting Point: Pickup from hotels in Cusco between 4:30 a.m. and 5:00 a.m.
Ending Point: Return to Cusco by evening or late night, depending on return method.
Group Size: Small groups for better attention, usually 8 to 16 people.
Altitude Range: From 2,000 meters in Aguas Calientes to 4,700 meters at Salkantay Pass.
Total Distance: Approximately 67 kilometers of hiking.
Difficulty: Moderate to challenging, with acclimatization needed for high points.
Best Time: Dry season from May to September for clearer paths.
Price Includes: Most meals, guides, transport, and Machu Picchu ticket.

Resumen del Itinerario

Day 1: Cusco, Humantay Lagoon, and Quiswarniyoc Camp

4:30 a.m. to 5:00 a.m.: Pickup from hotel in Cusco.
5:15 a.m.: Leave Cusco for Mollepata, about 2 hours drive.
Arrival in Mollepata: Breakfast and supplies, about 1 hour.
Drive to Soraypampa: 1 hour.
Hike to Humantay Lagoon: 2 hours up.
Time at lagoon: 1 to 1.5 hours.
Descent to Quiswarniyoc: 1 hour down, then 45 minutes flat.
2:00 p.m.: Lunch at camp.
6:00 p.m.: Dinner and info for next day.

Day 2: Quiswarniyoc, Salkantay Pass, and Chawllay Camp

5:00 a.m.: Wake-up tea.
5:30 a.m.: Breakfast.
6:00 a.m.: Start hike to Salkantay Pass, 3 to 3.5 hours.
Time at pass: 30 to 45 minutes.
Descent to lunch spot: 2 hours.
After lunch: Descent to Chawllay, 2.5 to 3 hours.
Evening: Dinner.

Day 3: Santa Teresa Valley, Coffee Tour, Hydroelectrica to Aguas Calientes

5:30 a.m.: Wake-up tea.
6:00 a.m.: Breakfast.
6:30 a.m.: Hike to Lucmabamba, 5 hours.
Coffee tour in Lucmabamba.
Lunch at camp.
1.5 hours drive to Hydroelectrica.
3 hours walk to Aguas Calientes.
7:00 p.m.: Dinner.

Day 4: Machu Picchu and Return to Cusco

Early a.m.: Breakfast, then to Machu Picchu entrance.
Guided tour: 2 hours.
Optional hikes: 3 hours if ticketed.
Return options: Train from afternoon, arrive Cusco 7:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m., or car via Hydroelectrica, arrive 10:00 p.m. to 10:30 p.m.

Itinerario

DAY 1:

Cusco, Humantay Lagoon, and Quiswarniyoc Camp

The tour starts with pickup from your hotel in Cusco between 4:30 a.m. and 5:00 a.m. A guide collects everyone. At about 5:15 a.m., the group leaves in private transportation owned by Peru Qantu Adventures, with highly trained drivers. The drive to Mollepata takes approximately 2 hours. There, breakfast happens at a local spot, included. Time in Mollepata lasts about 1 hour for food and buying items.

From Mollepata, private transportation continues to Soraypampa for 1 hour. At Soraypampa, meet muleteers and horses. Hand over duffle bags. The hike begins at 3,900 meters, going up to Humantay Lagoon at 4,200 meters. First part is gradual for 1 hour, then steeper for another hour. Total hike: approximately 2 hours.

At Humantay Lagoon, spend 1 to 1.5 hours. Take pictures, hear guide’s detailed explanation. Guides know routes well and share Andean traditions. Descent to Quiswarniyoc: 1 hour downhill, then 45 minutes flat. Arrive around 2:00 p.m. Lunch ready from cooking team, using local organic ingredients.

After lunch, rest in camp. No planned hikes. Walk short distances if wanted. Views of mountains nearby. At 6:00 p.m., dinner served. Guide gives details for day 2. A representative from Peru Qantu Adventures stays aware of your itinerary.

DAY 2:

Quiswarniyoc, Salkantay Pass, and Chawllay Camp

Wake at 5:00 a.m. with coca tea for altitude help. 30 minutes to pack. Breakfast at 5:30 a.m. Check bags before start. Hike from Quiswarniyoc to Salkantay Pass at 4,700 meters begins at 6:00 a.m. Takes 3 to 3.5 hours uphill, with breaks each hour.

At the pass, spend 30 to 45 minutes. See mountains close. Guide explains area, perhaps a ritual for local beliefs. Guides are experts, handling travelers from everywhere in several languages, with wide experience on this route.

Descent to Wayracmachay for lunch: 2 hours. Kitchen team prepares meal with natural local items. Short rest after. Then descend to Chawllay: 2.5 to 3 hours, steeper but with changing plants.

Arrive Chawllay at 2,900 meters. Guide shows sleeping spots. Dinner ends the day. Private transportation is agency-owned. A representative monitors itinerary.

DAY 3:

Santa Teresa Valley, Coffee Tour, Hydroelectrica to Aguas Calientes

Wake at 5:30 a.m. with tea. Pack, then breakfast at 6:00 a.m. Hike from Chawllay to Lucmabamba starts at 6:30 a.m. Mostly flat through Santa Teresa Valley, 5 hours. See plants and farms.

In Lucmabamba, join coffee tour with local family. Taste coffee, learn process. Guides give detailed talk. Lunch at camp follows, from organic sources. Opt for international food at extra cost—ask reservations team.

After lunch, 1.5-hour drive in private transportation to Hydroelectrica. Then 3-hour walk to Aguas Calientes along path near tracks. Check into hotel, shower. Dinner at 7:00 p.m. in local restaurant. Plan for next day. Representative tracks progress.

DAY 4:

Machu Picchu and Return to Cusco

Last day for Machu Picchu. Reach entrance at ticket time. From Aguas Calientes, walk 1.5 hours: 30 minutes flat to checkpoint, show passport and ticket, then 1 hour up 1,700 steps. Or buy bus ticket for $12, 30 minutes. Buses start 5:30 a.m., every 5 to 10 minutes.

Meet group and guide at entrance. 2-hour guided tour of Inca sites, following circuit. Guide explains history and meaning in detail. Time for photos. Guides are experienced worldwide.

If extra ticket, hike Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain after: 3 hours round trip. Must book ahead.

Return to Cusco: Train option—walk or bus to Aguas Calientes, train to Ollantaytambo 1.5 hours (departs 2:30 p.m. to 3:30 p.m.), then private transportation 2 hours to Cusco, arrive 7:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. Choose PeruRail for varied times or Inca Rail for direct routes.

Car option: 3-hour hike to Hydroelectrica, arrive by 2:30 p.m. for 3:00 p.m. car. Drive 5 to 6 hours, arrive Cusco 10:00 p.m. to 10:30 p.m. Only if early Machu Picchu ticket. Extra nights at own cost. Representative oversees all.

Inclusions

Incluye

Pre-Trek Briefing: Held at 7:00 p.m. at Peru Qantu Adventures office in Cusco the day before. Meet guide and group. Get details on trek, pickup times, printed tickets. Receive duffle bag for 7 kg items carried by horses. Explain luggage storage. Bring passport. Pay balances or rent gear like sleeping bags.
Professional Tour Guide: Certified experts lead the Salkantay Trek and Machu Picchu visit. They handle groups from around the world in several languages. Carry first aid and oxygen. Provide detailed explanations at sites.
Pickup Service: From hotel or Airbnb in Cusco, 4:30 a.m. to 5:00 a.m. Exact time from briefing. Option to meet at office at 5:00 a.m. Coordinated by guide.
Duffle Bag Service: For 7 kg personal items. Transported by horses to camps. Allows light daypack for hikes. Leave bags at office after trek.
Private Transportation: From Cusco to Soraypampa, 3 hours. Agency-owned vehicles with trained drivers for comfort.
Meals: 4 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 3 dinners by chefs. Use local organic ingredients. Vegan, vegetarian options. Snacks daily. International dishes possible at extra cost—consult team.
Accommodation: One night in glass domes for views. One night in cabins. One night in Aguas Calientes hotel with private bath, hot water, Wi-Fi. Mattresses and pillows provided. Sleeping bag needed or rent.
Cooking Team: Prepares all meals. Adapts to diets like gluten-free.
Kitchen Equipment: All items for cooking and eating carried to camps.
Muleteers and Horses: Transport gear, food, duffle bags. Frees hikers from heavy loads.
Machu Picchu Ticket: Included, best circuit available. Prefer Circuit 2-A for full access and viewpoint. If not, 2-B or others.
Guided Tour at Machu Picchu: 2.5 hours with expert. 30 minutes free time after.
Return Trip Options: Train or car as described. Private transportation for parts.
Free Storage: At office in Cusco for extra luggage. Open 4:30 a.m. to 10:00 p.m.
Dietary Options: Vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free at no extra. Inform when booking.
Emergency Supplies: Guides carry oxygen and first aid for quick help.

no Inluido

Entrance to Humantay Lagoon: Pay at site to local government. 20 soles for foreigners (about $6), 10 soles for Peruvians (about $3). Cash in soles.
Sleeping Bag: Rent for $10 if needed. Designed for cold up to -10 degrees.
Trekking Poles: Rent pair for $10. Adjustable for terrain, aids on steep parts.
Drinking Water for Bottles: Water for drinks at meals. Buy bottled along trail, 5 to 12 soles per 2.5 liters, or use filter for stream water.
Internet Connection: No signal from day 1 morning to day 2 camp. Wi-Fi at day 2 camp for 10 soles. Signal after day 3.
Showers and Toilets: Toilets free at camps, 1 sol along trail. Hot showers at day 2 camp for 10 soles, cold free. Hot springs option day 3, or hotel day 4.
Tips: Optional. Staff paid well, but tips common in industry.
Travel Insurance: Get in your country. Hard to buy in Peru.

Que llevar al tour

Passport: Needed for checkpoints and entry to sites. Keep it safe in waterproof bag. Original required, copies not enough.
Daypack: Small backpack for daily items like water, snacks, camera. Should be comfortable with straps for long walks.
Water Bottle: Reusable one to fill at meals. Helps avoid buying plastic, good for environment. Capacity at least 1 liter.
Sunscreen: High SPF for strong sun at heights. Apply often, even in clouds, to prevent burns.
Insect Repellent: For lower areas with bugs. Natural types work, spray on skin and clothes.
Hat and Sunglasses: Wide brim hat for sun, glasses with UV protection. Essential for glare off snow or water.
Warm Clothes: Layers like fleece, jacket for cold nights. Wool from Andes keeps warm.
Rain Gear: Poncho or waterproof jacket. Rain possible any time, keeps you dry on walks.
Hiking Shoes: Sturdy with good grip. Break in before trek to avoid blisters.
Personal Medications: Any needed, plus basics like pain relievers. For altitude, bring what doctor suggests.
Cash in Soles: For extras like entrances, tips. Small bills for shops along path.
Camera or Phone: For photos. Extra battery as charging limited.
Snacks: Energy bars or nuts if you want more than provided.
Toiletries: Basics like toothbrush, small towel. Biodegradable soap for camps.
Flashlight: For night at camps. Headlamp frees hands.

Important

All private transportation belongs to Peru Qantu Adventures and uses drivers with high training for safe trips.
Guides are experts in leading people from many countries, speaking several languages, with broad knowledge of tourist paths.
A representative from the agency follows your itinerary at every step.
Book early for best Machu Picchu circuits, at least 4 months ahead for popular ones.
Meals use natural local organic items; international options add costs—check with reservations.
Visits include detailed talks by guides familiar with the areas.
For return train, pick PeruRail for luxury choices or Inca Rail for basic efficient rides.
Check availability online; we buy tickets from government site.

Preguntas Frecuentes

What is the best time to do this trek?

The dry season from May to September offers clearer paths and less rain, making walks easier. Temperatures drop at night but days are sunny. Book ahead as spots fill fast. This timing avoids wet slips on trails.

How fit do I need to be for the Salkantay Trek?

You need moderate fitness for daily hikes up to 10 hours. Practice walking uphill before. Altitude affects breathing, so acclimatize in Cusco first. If you have health issues, consult a doctor. The trek builds strength each day.

What if I have dietary needs?

We adjust meals for vegetarian, vegan, or gluten-free at no extra cost. Tell us when booking. Chefs use fresh local items. For other needs, like allergies, give details early. International food costs more.

Can I store luggage in Cusco?

Yes, free storage at our office near Plaza de Armas. Open from 4:30 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. Leave extra bags safely while trekking. Pick up on return. Convenient for light travel.

What happens if weather is bad?

Guides monitor conditions and adjust if needed for safety. Rain gear helps. In extreme cases, we reschedule parts. Cold nights common, so warm layers essential. Trek runs year-round but dry season better.

How do I get to Machu Picchu on day 4?

Walk 1.5 hours or buy bus for $12, 30 minutes. Arrive at ticket time. Guide meets there. Bus line first-come. Early start advised for crowds.

What circuits are available for Machu Picchu?

We aim for Circuit 2-A for full access. If not, 2-B or others. Government sells all. Book early for best. Each covers different Inca sites.

Is altitude sickness a concern?

Yes, at high points like 4,700 meters. Drink water, eat light, rest. Coca tea helps. Guides have oxygen. Spend days in Cusco before to adjust.

Can I add extra hikes at Machu Picchu?

Yes, if you book Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain tickets ahead. Limited spots. Takes 3 hours. Do after main tour.

What return options are there?

Train: Afternoon departure, arrive Cusco by 8:00 p.m. Car via Hydroelectrica: If early ticket, arrive by 10:30 p.m. Choose when booking.

How many people in a group?

Usually 8 to 16 for personal attention. Allows better guide interaction. Larger groups possible but we keep small.

What accommodation types?

Glass domes night 1, cabins night 2, hotel night 3. Shared by 2, but fits more if group wants. Mattresses provided.

Do guides speak English?

Yes, and Spanish, other languages too. They handle international travelers well. Clear communication throughout.

What if I need to cancel?

Check policy on site. Deposits non-refundable close to date. Travel insurance covers changes. Contact us early.

How to book the trek?

Use online calendar for dates. If available, proceed. We buy Machu Picchu ticket. Pay balance at briefing.

Guia de Viajes

Weather Patterns

In the Andes around Cusco, weather changes fast. Dry season May to September has cold nights down to -5 degrees at camps, warm days up to 20 degrees. Wet season October to April brings rain, mud on paths. Always check forecasts. Layers work best.

Local People

People in villages like Mollepata are friendly, speak Quechua and Spanish. They farm potatoes, corn. Respect customs, ask before photos. A smile helps. Once, I chatted with a farmer who shared coca leaves—it built connection.

Typical Foods

Meals include quinoa soups, trout from rivers, vegetables like corn. Natural and organic from farms. Try cuy if adventurous, roasted guinea pig local tradition. For international, pasta or salads at extra—ask agency.

Cheap Eating Spots

In Aguas Calientes, street vendors sell empanadas for 5 soles. Mollepata has small eateries with set menus under 10 soles. Avoid tourist traps near sites for better prices.

Free Places to Visit

Walk around Cusco’s Plaza de Armas, see old churches no cost. In valleys, hike short paths near camps for views. Hydroelectrica area has river spots to sit.

Dressing Year-Round

Wear breathable shirts, pants for bugs. Warm jacket for nights all year. Rain poncho always. Sturdy shoes. In summer, light hat; winter, gloves. Comfort over style.

Clothing Comparison

Season	Top Layer	Bottom	Footwear	Accessories
Dry (May-Sep)	Fleece	Hiking pants	Boots	Hat, gloves
Wet (Oct-Apr)	Waterproof jacket	Quick-dry pants	Waterproof boots	Poncho

Physical Effort and Health

Trek needs good stamina, hikes 5 to 10 hours daily. Uphill to pass toughest. No heart issues, check with doctor. Altitude meds if prone. Walk slow, hydrate. Stats: 20% get mild sickness, rest helps.

Anecdote: A friend struggled day 2 but rested, felt better. Pace yourself.

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Get Ready to Explore? With your booking confirmed, all that's left to do is pack your bags and get ready to explore. Whether you're a seasoned traveler or embarking on your first journey, we'll be with you every step of the way.At Peru Qantu Adventures, we believe that every journey begins with a single step. So why wait? Start your adventure today and let the world be your guide.

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