Salkantay Trek + Llaqtapata To Machu Picchu 4d/3n.
Dificulty
Hard
Duration
4 Days / 3 Nights
Group Size
8 a 12 personas
Max Altitude
4,650 msnm
Description
If you want to experience the best of the Salkantay Trek but don’t have enough time for the Classic 5-day version, this Salkantay & Llaqtapata 4-day trek is perfect for you. It combines an incredible trekking experience with visits to some of the most beautiful places in the world. You can join alone, in a group, or as a couple.
Throughout the journey, each night, you will be able to relax in comfortable rooms and savor some of the most delicious meals, all in the heart of the mountains. Our experienced guides will accompany you every step of the way, sharing their deep knowledge of the region’s history and natural wonders. Experience this adventure in comfort and excellent company, surrounded by the beauty of the Andes.
On the first day, you will test your limits by ascending to the Salkantay Pass at over 4,650 meters, where a magnificent glacial landscape awaits you. Later, you will experience a radical transition into the warm climate of the Cloud Forest.
On the second day, you will hike through the edge of the jungle, witnessing the unique flora and fauna of the Cusco rainforest. You will visit an organic farm and enjoy Peru’s best coffee, followed by a relaxing afternoon at the Cocalmayo hot springs.
On the third day, you will reach the impressive archaeological site of Llaqtapata, walking along the Inca Trail, where you will admire your first breathtaking view of Machu Picchu from a distance. After one last night at a hotel, you will end your trek with a guided tour of the world wonder: Machu Picchu, before returning to Cusco aboard a panoramic train.
Did you know that the Salkantay Trek is ranked among the 25 best hikes in the world by National Geographic Adventure Travel? Join us and discover the magic of walking the sacred paths of the Incas!
Day 1: Cusco |Soraypampa – Salkantay Pass – Wayracmachay – Chaullay.
Your adventure begins very early on the first day. Pickup will be at your hotel at 4:00 a.m., followed by a scenic three-hour drive in our private transportation through the Mollepata and Challacancha valleys before reaching our starting point in Soraypampa (3,800 m / 12,467 ft). Along the way, you will witness the snow-capped peaks of Salkantay and Humantay, two colossal Inca gods, or Apus, as they are known in the Andes. Keep your eyes open for rolling hills, deep valleys, and stunning wildlife in every direction.
Once we arrive in Soraypampa, we will enjoy a hearty breakfast and meet our trekking team, who will organize all our gear and pack the cargo mules for the hike. From here, we will begin the most challenging section of the trek, ascending to the highest point of the trail: the Salkantay Pass (4,650 m / 15,255 ft). Although the distance is only 7 km (4.35 miles), the steep climb takes more than four hours. You will ascend slowly along the “Seven Snakes Trail,” aptly named for its winding zigzag shape.
Once at the top, you will take in breathtaking views of the Salkantay Glacier (6,271 m / 20,570 ft) and the surrounding valley, with other stunning peaks like Pumasillo and Humantay. Salkantay is the second-highest mountain in the entire Cusco region.
After completing the biggest challenge of the day, we will descend for two hours to Wayracmachay, where a delicious lunch prepared by our chefs awaits you. After this revitalizing meal, you will enter the edge of the tropical rainforest, also known as the cloud forest. This section covers 9 km (5.9 miles) and takes about three hours. Along the way, you will experience lush green landscapes and witness the dramatic and rapid transition from Andean highlands to the Amazon jungle. You will see colorful scenery, unique wildlife, and native plants while enjoying the warmer climate.
After a long day of trekking, you will be happy to reach Chaullay camp, where you will spend the night. Finally, we will serve you a hearty dinner before you rest at our exclusive Mountain Sky cabins.
- Meals included: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
- Accommodation: Mountain Sky cabins
- Total walking distance: 22 km / 14 miles
- Total hiking time: 10 hours
- Difficulty level: Challenging
- Minimum altitude: 2,900 m / 9,514 ft
- Maximum altitude: 4,650 m / 15,255 ft
- Accommodation elevation: 2,900 m / 9,514 ft
Day 2: Chaullay | Collpapampa – Lucmabamba – Santa Teresa hot springs.
Around 5:30 a.m. – Wake-up call with coca tea! Afterward, we will have breakfast and then begin our hike toward La Playa, walking through the dense jungle and following the Salkantay River on a gradual trail. Along the way, we will stop at several small villages to enjoy local fruits and vegetables, including passion fruit, bananas, coffee, avocado, mango, oranges, and papaya.
The trail distance is 14 km (8.69 miles), and the hike takes approximately 5 hours until we reach Lucmabamba, our base camp. After the trek, you will participate in a coffee tour. Here, you will visit a local family, who will guide you through the entire coffee production process—from planting and harvesting to roasting. You will even have the chance to prepare and taste your own freshly brewed cup of coffee.
Lucmabamba is a small town surrounded by coffee plantations and offers basic amenities such as bathrooms, electricity, small shops, and souvenirs. It will serve as our lunch stop, and you will have free time in the afternoon.
Afternoon Activity Options:
The afternoon is free for relaxation, or you can visit the Cocalmayo Hot Springs in Santa Teresa, a perfect way to unwind after three days of trekking. The additional cost for the hot springs is approximately 40 soles, which includes round-trip transportation (about one hour each way) and an entrance fee of 10 soles. You can decide whether to participate in this activity at the camp, with the coordination of your guide, or choose to rest at the Lucmabamba camp.
Santa Teresa Hot Springs Visit:
If you choose to visit the hot springs, local transportation will take you there, and you will spend approximately 2 hours relaxing before returning to Lucmabamba camp.
After dinner, your guide will provide important information and details about the itinerary for the next day, as you head toward the base town of Machu Picchu, Aguas Calientes.
- Meals included: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
- Accommodation: Mountain Sky cabins
- Total walking distance: 14 km / 8.69 miles
- Total hiking time: 5 hours
- Difficulty level: Moderate
- Minimum altitude: 2,900 m / 9,514 ft
- Maximum altitude: 2,900 m / 9,514 ft
- Accommodation elevation: 2,000 m / 6,562 ft
Day 3: Lucmabamba | Llaqtapata – Hydroelectric – Aguas Calientes.
Today, we will enjoy the sunrise in a lush landscape of rivers, waterfalls, orchids, and many plantations, including bananas, avocados, and coffee. We will have a nutritious breakfast and prepare for the next part of our trekking adventure. Here, we will follow a wide, well-preserved, and original Inca trail.
Llaqtapata is an Inca archaeological site located along the Salkantay trail, which you will have the opportunity to visit on the third day. From Llaqtapata, you will enjoy a beautiful view of Machu Picchu from a unique angle.
We will hike uphill for 3 hours along the original Inca trail until we reach the Llaqtapata ruins. Once at the site, you will have plenty of time to take in the stunning views of Machu Picchu and Huayna Picchu. If the weather is good, you will also be able to see Mount Salkantay once again.
Afterward, we will hike downhill for 3 hours until we reach Hidroeléctrica, where we will enjoy a nutritious lunch and a well-deserved rest.
The final part of the trek is a 3-hour walk along the train tracks to Aguas Calientes. Once we arrive at the small town, we will take you to your hotel, where you can shower and rest before our final dinner at 7:00 p.m. in a tourist restaurant.
After dinner, we will head to bed, excited for our last day and the ultimate reward: Machu Picchu.
- Meals included: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
- Accommodation: Hotel
- Total walking distance: 25 km / 15.53 miles
- Total hiking time: 9 hours
- Difficulty level: Challenging
- Minimum altitude: 2,000 m / 6,562 ft
- Maximum altitude: 2,800 m / 9,186 ft
- Accommodation elevation: 2,040 m / 6,693 ft
Day 4: Aguas Calientes | Machu Picchu – Ollantaytambo – Cusco.
Today is the most important day of your excursion, and you must make the most of it. That is why it is recommended to have breakfast very early. On the last day, you have a couple of options to visit the Machu Picchu archaeological park:
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If you are very tired after several days of trekking, or if you have muscle pain or blisters, you can take one of the first buses to Machu Picchu (starting at 5:30 a.m.). The bus ride from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu takes approximately 25 minutes (extra $12 USD).
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The other option is to walk up early, leaving the hotel at 4:40 a.m. The hike takes 1 hour and 20 minutes: the first 20 minutes are a flat and easy walk, while the remaining 50 minutes consist of steep stairs uphill.
The hotel will store your luggage while you are at Machu Picchu, so you will only need to carry a small backpack with all your essentials.
Once in Machu Picchu, your guide will lead you to a strategic viewpoint where you can admire the Inca architecture of Machu Picchu and take the best postcard-worthy photos. Then, you will begin a guided tour of the main sectors of the citadel, lasting approximately 2 hours. During this guided visit, you will learn more about the history and culture of the Inca Empire.
At the end of the tour, you will have free time to continue taking photos and explore more of the site. If you have booked a hike to Huayna Picchu, your guide will show you where to begin this climb, which takes about 2 hours round trip (must be reserved in advance, as tickets sell out quickly, costing $60 USD per person).
Another option is Machu Picchu Mountain, which is a more challenging hike that takes a minimum of 3 hours round trip (also $60 USD per person).
Once you have fully enjoyed the exceptional views of Machu Picchu, you can take the bus back to Aguas Calientes (extra $12 USD) or walk down for lunch (not included).
Depending on your train departure time, you may also have time for shopping, sightseeing, or visiting the museum or hot springs.
The Expedition Train will take you back to Ollantaytambo at 2:55 p.m. or 3:20 p.m., following the spectacular Urubamba River. Near Aguas Calientes, the canyon narrows, and the river flows through beautiful whitewater sections.
Back in Ollantaytambo, your driver will be waiting at the train station exit to take you back to Cusco by car. You can expect to arrive at your hotel by 7:30 p.m.
- Meals included: Breakfast
- Total walking time: 1 hour 20 minutes
- Duration of Machu Picchu visit: 2-3 hours
- Difficulty level: Easy
- Machu Picchu site altitude: 2,400 m / 7,874 ft
- Huayna Picchu Mountain altitude: 2,700 m / 8,858 ft
- Machu Picchu Mountain altitude: 3,000 m / 9,842 ft
Incluye
✓ HIGH-QUALITY SERVICE AND SAFETY.
- Pre-departure briefing:
You will meet with your guide the day before the trek at your hotel for an orientation. The meeting will be at 6:00 p.m.
✓ ENTRANCE TICKET TO THE MACHU PICCHU ARCHAEOLOGICAL SITE:
- The entrance ticket to Machu Picchu. There are several circuits to explore the citadel, and we ensure the best available option at the time of your reservation.
✓ Our first option, if available, is Circuit 2:
- Llaqta Machu Picchu / Classic Route 2-A, which takes you to the iconic panoramic viewpoint and allows you to explore around 70% of the citadel.
✓ If this circuit is not available, we will book Circuit 2-B:
- Lower Terrace, which also offers the classic viewpoint and access to 60% of Machu Picchu.
To ensure you get one of these circuits, we recommend booking your tour 3 to 4 months in advance. If none of these options are available, we will select an alternative circuit that allows access to specific areas of Machu Picchu. You can find more details about the circuits at the following link: tuboletto.cultura.pe.
✓ FIELD STAFF.
- Professional guides – professional guide protocols:
Specialized in trekking and selected from accredited universities. Our guides are fluent in English and have three to ten years of experience on different treks in the region. They are experts in handling groups under pressure and are trained in first aid and rescue techniques. Most of them come from different Andean communities, bringing their cultural heritage. Along with the rest of the field team, our guides will make your trip a unique experience. - Chefs – cook protocols:
Trained in local gastronomy schools, they are experts in modern Andean cuisine, traditional Peruvian food, international cuisine styles, and vegetarian and vegan cooking. They have in-depth knowledge of the nutritional properties of their meals and are skilled in preparing food quickly. Of course, all of this is done with a strong emphasis on hygiene and food safety during preparation. - Horsemen and horses:
Our team of horsemen and their horses are essential for the success of the experience, as they are responsible for transporting all camping equipment, food supplies, and other necessary loads along the route. The horses also carry the duffel bags with up to 7 kilos of personal belongings per participant, including sleeping bags. This allows you to walk with only a small backpack with your essentials while our team transports your luggage from camp to camp, enabling you to fully enjoy the trek.
✓ DUFFEL BAG SERVICE FOR THE TRIP – 7 KILOS:
- During the briefing session, you will be provided with a duffel bag that allows you to pack up to 7 kilos of your personal belongings. Our team will transport these duffel bags on horses throughout the trek, ensuring that you have access to them at the campsites. This service allows you to hike comfortably with only your daypack.
✓ ACCOMMODATION.
- Personal Accommodation in Private Campsites:
Just like our ancestors, we are very considerate of Pachamama (Mother Earth). That is why our campsites and lodges are adapted to the environment to avoid any negative impact. - Hotel in Aguas Calientes:
You will spend the last night in a comfortable hotel in Aguas Calientes, including luggage storage while you visit Machu Picchu.
Accommodation is available in double, twin, and triple rooms.
✓ KITCHEN EQUIPMENT AND UTENSILS:
- We provide you with all the necessary equipment and utensils for meal preparation and service. Our team ensures they are transported to each campsite, guaranteeing that you enjoy your meals in optimal conditions.
✓ MEALS.
- Meals:
- 4 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 3 dinners.
- Wake-up tea.
- Tea time or happy hour.
- Snacks on the trail.
- Hygiene products.
✓ TRANSPORTATION.
- Day 1:
You will be picked up from your hotel in the morning and travel in private transportation along with the group to the starting point of the hike. - Day 4:
Transportation from the Ollantaytambo train station to Cusco.
✓ Train ticket from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo:
- The train ticket is usually scheduled for 2:30 p.m., 2:55 p.m., or 3:20 p.m., depending on availability. You will have time to explore the charming town of Aguas Calientes, enjoy lunch, and relax. Make sure to arrive at the train station at least 30 minutes before departure. The train journey to Ollantaytambo takes approximately 1.5 hours. Upon arrival, a Bestreks agency transfer will be waiting with your name. Then, you will travel by car back to Cusco, which takes another 2 hours, arriving at Plaza Regocijo. Expect to return to Cusco around 7:00 p.m.
✓ Personal belongings transportation.
✓ EMERGENCY EQUIPMENT AND REMOTE MEDICAL ASSISTANCE.
- Radios:
They have a range of 10 km and 8 frequencies for our guides, cooks, and porters to communicate with each other. Additionally, the radios can be used to contact the Salkantay park rangers in case of an emergency. - First aid kit:
It includes alcohol, hydrogen peroxide, iodine tincture, germicidal soap, cotton, gauze, bandages, medical tape, surgical gloves, painkillers for muscle and stomach pain, and antipyretics. If you take prescription medications, you can bring your own. - Portable oxygen tank.
✓ IMPORTANT:
- Please note that only a medical professional can issue a prescription. Our guides DO NOT have the authority to prescribe treatment to clients. Medications will be administered only with your consent and at your own responsibility. If you have a prescription, we recommend that you bring your own medications.
No Incluye
× ENTRANCE TICKET TO HUMANTAY LAGOON
- On the first day of the trek, you will visit Humantay Lagoon. To enter this site, you must pay an entrance fee to the local government of Mollepata. The cost is 20 soles for foreigners (approximately 6 USD) and 10 soles for Peruvians (approximately 3 USD). The payment is made in soles and in cash upon entry to the lagoon.
× SLEEPING BAG
- If you do not have your own, you can rent one from our company. Our sleeping bags are effective and durable, protecting you from temperatures as low as -18°C (0°F). They have a mummy shape and include a sleeping liner. The sleeping bags are cleaned after each trip.
(Rental available for $20 USD at Bestreks agency).
× TREKKING POLES
- With extra rubber tips included in our service, they are very useful for rough terrain and for ascending and descending. You can rent a pair from our company.
(Rental available for $20 USD at Bestreks agency).
× HUAYNA PICCHU MOUNTAIN
- The Huayna Picchu Mountain is located behind the citadel and is commonly seen in images as the background of the classic Machu Picchu photo. Each day, only 400 spaces are available in two shifts: from 7:00 a.m. to 8:00 a.m. (200 spaces) and from 9:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m. (200 spaces). Tickets are required and sell out months in advance. Reaching the summit takes about 45 minutes, and the round trip lasts approximately 2 hours. The most breathtaking aspect of this hike is the 360-degree view from the top, overlooking the Inca ruins, the winding Wilkamayu (Urubamba) River, and the lush mountainous landscape.
Huayna Picchu Mountain: $60 USD.
× MACHU PICCHU MOUNTAIN
- Machu Picchu Mountain is located on the opposite side of Huayna Picchu. It offers a panoramic view of the Machu Picchu archaeological site, Huayna Picchu Mountain, Putucusi Mountain, the winding Wilkamayu (Urubamba) River, the lush mountainous landscape, and the final part of the Classic Inca Trail. The hike is not particularly dangerous or difficult but will require all your strength. The hiking time to Machu Picchu Mountain depends on the individual’s physical condition and can take between 1 to 1.5 hours to climb or 2 to 3 hours round trip.
Machu Picchu Mountain: $60 USD.
× DRINKING WATER FOR BOTTLES
- We do not include bottled water refills, but we provide cold and hot drinks at each meal. For bottled water, you have two options: purchase mineral water at small shops along the Salkantay Trail (prices range from 5 to 12 soles per 2.5-liter bottle) or bring a filter or purification tablets for mountain water.
× INTERNET CONNECTION
- There is no cellphone signal from 9:00 a.m. on the first day until reaching the second campsite. At this campsite, Wi-Fi is available for 10 soles. After the third day, you will generally have a cellphone signal in some areas, and on the 3rd and 4th days, there will be cellphone reception and Wi-Fi at the hotel.
× SHOWERS AND BATHROOMS ALONG THE ROUTE
- Bathrooms are available at the campsites at no cost, but locals may charge 1 sol to use them along the trail. Regarding showers, the second campsite offers hot showers for 10 soles, while cold showers are free. On the third day, you can use the hotel showers in Aguas Calientes. Typically, there are no showers available at the first campsite due to low temperatures.
× LUNCH IN AGUAS CALIENTES AND DINNER IN CUSCO ON DAY 4.
× PERSONAL HIKING CLOTHING AND GEAR.
× TRAVEL INSURANCE
- This is not a requirement, but we always recommend that our clients purchase travel insurance in case of flight issues or unexpected health problems. Please check if your travel insurance policy has altitude restrictions, as some policies are void above (4,000 m / 13,123 ft).
× ADDITIONAL COSTS
- Delays beyond management control (landscape, bad weather, itinerary changes due to safety concerns, illness, government policy changes, political instability/strikes, etc.).
✓ TIPS FOR YOUR CREW
- Tipping is a common practice in tourism and any excursion to Machu Picchu. Although we pay fair wages to our entire team, extra tips are always appreciated, especially considering the hard work they do. Usually, group members pool their tips to distribute them among the porters and chefs together, and for the guide and assistant after the Machu Picchu visit.
∴ ESSENTIALS:
- Original Passport:
If you booked your service with an old passport and later renewed it, your passport number has likely changed. Please inform us so we can update this information. This change must be made before your trip to Peru (at least 10 days before your travel). Once you have your new passport, please inform Bestreks of this update. Otherwise, last-minute modifications will incur an additional cost and significant inconvenience. - Student ID Card:
Those who booked their trip using a student discount with a valid ISIC card must bring their original, valid card (not a copy, not expired). This document must be shown at checkpoints along the route. Unfortunately, if you do not carry your card, you will not be able to enter Machu Picchu or Huayna Picchu. - Backpack:
Choose a small and ergonomic backpack to stay comfortable during hikes. For Machu Picchu, bags larger than 25 liters are not allowed. Larger bags must be stored outside. - Water Storage:
Bring between 1.5 and 2 liters of water; consider a Camelbak or a similar system. You can purchase water along the trail. - Hiking Shoes:
Select lightweight options with good traction. - Headlamp:
Essential for night walks and early morning hikes.
∴ FOR YOUR TRAVEL BAG:
- Moisture-wicking t-shirts.
- Pairs of hiking pants.
- Sets of underwear.
- 1 fleece jacket and 1 warm down jacket for cold nights.
- 1 rain jacket and waterproof pants for unpredictable weather.
- 1 sun hat and 1 wool hat for different temperatures.
- Comfortable camp shoes and sturdy hiking boots.
- Waterproof gloves.
- Waterproof jacket/rain poncho for heavy rain.
- Quick-dry towel (larger than the provided one, if preferred).
- Small bottle of soap for personal hygiene.
- Battery charger (power sources are scarce on the trail).
- Large plastic bags to organize and protect items.
- Sleeping bag (at least -10°C resistant for cold nights).
Toiletries. - Sunscreen and facial moisturizer to protect the skin.
- Insect repellent and hand sanitizer for hygiene.
- Wet wipes for quick cleaning.
- Toothbrush and toothpaste for oral hygiene.
- Personal medications and a basic first aid kit.
∴ INSIDE YOUR HIKING BACKPACK:
- Water: Bring enough for the first day; refills will be provided later.
- Rain and fleece clothes: Stay adaptable to changing weather.
- Camera or smartphone: Capture the memories.
- Music: An iPhone or similar for entertainment.
- Hand sanitizer: Maintain cleanliness.
- Toilet paper and small plastic bags: Manage waste responsibly.
- Extra money in soles: For additional purchases and tips.
- Earplugs: For a peaceful rest.
∴ NOTES:
- Waterproofing: Protect your items from rain and moisture.
- Packing Tip: Organize your items in separate bags to keep everything accessible.
✓ Salkantay Tour Price
- Price per person:
- $440 USD – Adults
- $430 USD – Children and students
To book the Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu, an initial payment of $220 USD per person is required. The remaining balance can be paid online or at our office in Cusco.
✓ Student Discount:
- All travelers under 17 years old receive a $20 USD discount.
- If you are 25 years old or younger at the time of travel, you can get the discount with your student ID. Please email us to receive a discount code.
- Valid Student ID for Machu Picchu Discount: To obtain the student discount, travelers must have a valid ID with the following:
- Note about the ISIC Card: Although the International Student Identity Card (ISIC) is recognized in many countries, it is not accepted by the Peruvian government for student discounts at Machu Picchu. Just as a passport cannot be replaced by any other document in international procedures, the student ID cannot be substituted by an ISIC or any other document for discounts in Peru.The Peruvian government has strict policies regarding student accreditation. It is mandatory to present an ID that meets these criteria to qualify for student-priced tickets, as you will be required to show the physical student ID upon entering Machu Picchu. If your ID does not meet these requirements, you risk being denied entry and having to pay the full ticket price, depending on availability. Therefore, it is essential to ensure your student ID complies with Peruvian regulations before booking your trip to Machu Picchu as a student.
✓ Add-ons and Upgrades: Additional services and enhancements you can include in this trip:
- Huayna Picchu Mountain: $60.00 USD
- Machu Picchu Mountain: $60.00 USD
- Single Hotel (Hotel in Aguas Calientes): $30.00 USD
- Extra Night in Aguas Calientes: $50.00 USD
- Vistadome Train (Aguas Calientes – Ollantaytambo): $70.00 USD
✓ Additional Equipment: Items you can rent for this trip:
- Sleeping bag: $20.00 USD
- Trekking poles (pair): $20.00 USD
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✓ Price Guarantee:
- Once your reservation is confirmed, we guarantee that the price will not increase, regardless of circumstances. Therefore, before booking, make sure to read all important information about the tour.
✓ How to Book:
- Booking the Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu is easy. You can book your spot online through our website, where our reservation platform will guide you step by step. The tour payment can be made using any credit or debit card, and you can also pay in your home country’s currency for convenience.
✓ Salkantay Trek Reservation:
- To secure your spot on the Salkantay Trek, we require a non-refundable deposit of $220 USD. This deposit guarantees your spot and allows us to purchase your Machu Picchu tickets and train tickets, which must be bought well in advance.
✓ Our booking platform
- allows you to pay only the deposit along with any additional options you select, or you can choose to pay the full amount upfront.
✓ Remaining Balance Payment:
- If you choose to pay only the deposit, the remaining balance must be paid upon arrival in Cusco, one day before the tour starts. The balance can be paid in soles or dollars in cash, or by card (with a 5% surcharge). You also have the option to pay online via our website, with a 5% fee.
✓ Full Payment Option:
- You can choose to pay the full tour cost online when booking.
✓ CANCELLATION POLICY: Bestreks has the following cancellation policies:
- Due to the strict regulations set by Machu Picchu National Park, once a reservation is made, the permit cannot be canceled, transferred, or modified. If you are unable to arrive on the scheduled date, no refunds will be issued.
- If you cancel 30 or more days in advance, you will lose your deposit but retain the tickets purchased for you.
- If you cancel 2-3 days before your trip, it will be considered a “no-show”, and you will have to pay 100% of the total cost. However, you will still receive your entrance tickets, a guided tour of Machu Picchu, a train ticket, and a bus ticket.
- If you decide to quit the trek for personal reasons after it has started, you will forfeit all included services. Any additional expenses incurred for your return (food, transport, accommodation) will be your responsibility. However, you may rejoin the group in Machu Picchu.
- Uncontrollable Events: Strikes, protests, flight cancellations, weather conditions, or overbooked hotels or flights. In such cases, we will suggest alternative arrangements (if available), but any additional costs will be the traveler’s responsibility.
- Recommendations: We strongly recommend that you fully understand all booking and cancellation policies before making your payment to ensure your investment is protected.
✓ Briefing Session:
- All briefings take place the evening before your trip at our main office in Cusco (or at your hotel) at 6:00 p.m. If you cannot attend, please arrange another time via email or phone.
✓ Remaining Balance Payment (in Cusco):
- If you have a pending balance, you must pay it one day before your trek/tour. Failure to do so will result in your reservation not being confirmed.
✓ Pickup Service:
- All pickups occur within Cusco city. We recommend booking a centrally located hotel. Due to traffic conditions, pickup times may vary by 30 to 45 minutes.
✓ Lost Items:
- You are fully responsible for your belongings during the tour.
✓ Weather:
- The weather is unpredictable. The dry season is from April to October, but rain can occur at any time. Be prepared for four seasons in one day. Layering your clothing is essential.
✓ Altitude Sickness & Stomach Issues:
- If arriving from sea level, we recommend arriving two days before your trek to acclimatize.
- Symptoms of altitude sickness include headaches and nausea. Over-the-counter medication such as Aspirin, Diamox, or Soroche Pills can help.
- Drink 3-4 liters of water daily, consume light, easy-to-digest food, and avoid alcohol and smoking.
- Ensure you sleep at least 8 hours and avoid excessive physical activity.
By following these guidelines, you will be well-prepared for an amazing Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu experience!
Salkantay is the second highest mountain in the Cusco region at 6,271 m / 20574 ft. It is located
in the Cordillera de Vilcabamba, west-northwest 6 km from Cusco in the central range of the
Peruvian Andes. Salkantay means “Wild Mountain” and is considered a Sacred Deity that
controls the weather and fertility by the locals since Inca times.
The 5 Day Salkantay Trek offers a more relaxed pace. On Day 3, we stay at Lucmabamba camp,
allowing time to relax and even visit the thermal baths of Santa Teresa Cocalmayo. On Day 4,
we explore the archaeological site of Llaqtapata and on Day 5 Machu Picchu.
The key difference in the 4 Day Salkantay Trek is that on Day 3, instead of staying at
Lucmabamba Camp, we go directly to Hidroelectrica and Aguas Calientes. This makes Day 3
more challenging, as it includes a 3-hour hike from Hidroelectrica to Aguas Calientes. On Day 4,
you will visit the site of Machu Picchu.
Salkantay has an extreme climate. During the day temperatures reach 25℃ while at night they can -10℃ . However, this varies depending on the time of year. Salkantay from October to March:
From October to March is the rainy season. During these months, days are cloudy (19℃ ) and nights are not as cold (4℃ ), compared to the rest of the year. However, the frequency of rainfall increases considerably, making travel more difficult.
Salkantay between April and September:
April to September is the dry season. During these months, the days in Salkantay remain stable (20℃ ). However, nights have their lowest temperatures of the year (-10℃ ). Despite this, the weather is less rainy, which makes trekking in the snow-capped mountains more feasible.
Most people travel to Cusco by air. Please note that Cusco airport operates only domestic flights. Therefore, if you are coming directly from If you are flying from Lima to Cusco, you will need to pick up your luggage at the airport and check it back in for your flight to Cusco.
There are four airlines that fly back and forth between Lima and Cusco: LATAM Airlines, AVIANCA Airlines, Star Peru. All of these airlines offer similar flight schedules and services, but we generally recommend LATAM Airlines. You also have the option of traveling to Cusco by land. Please note that the trip from Lima to Cusco takes approximately 24 hours.
It is very important to be well acclimatized before going on a trek. We recommend that you arrive in Cusco at least days before you start your trek to help you adapt and avoid possible problems with altitude sickness during the trek. You will likely have already been to another high altitude area of Peru before arriving in Cusco in this case, we recommend that you rest for a day in Cusco to recover.
While no specific training is required to do the treks in Cusco, we suggest that the best way to prepare physically is to exercise on the treadmill, selecting the steep slope setting, as well as going up and down stairs or using the stair climber. Please note that you will need between 2 days in Cusco before the start date of your trek.
We always recommend using trekking shoes that are as light as possible. The ones that provide ankle support are very useful, especially for inexperienced hikers, as they will be climbing up and down many stairs made by our ancestors, the Incas.
Walking sticks are always useful for hikers, especially when completing this hike. This is because there are many trails that vary in altitude and are not always straight. Therefore, when you are on these trails, using walking sticks can really help relieve the pressure built up on your knees as well as help you climb the mountain. Also, our walking sticks are adjustable. Therefore, when you are not using them, you can shorten them so they don’t bother you. For those who want to bring their own walking sticks, make sure they have rubber tips or the rangers will not allow you to use them. In case you forgot to bring them from your home country, you can buy rubber tips in Cusco.
All luggage not needed for the trek must be left in Cusco. All hotels in Cusco are accustomed and prepared to store luggage. In case you have nowhere to store your luggage, you can leave it in our offices until our adventure ends. We will make sure your luggage is safely stored, don’t worry!
We offer a variety of local superfoods and traditional Peruvian dishes, such as rice, chicken, beef, salads, potatoes, vegetables, delicious, and fruits, freshly prepared by our local chef. We also have excellent vegetarian options and cater to specific dietary requests with proper preparation and good communication.
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