Highlights
- Enjoy the panoramic views of the Limatambo Valley and Mollepata grassy hills on the Salkantay Trekking 4 Days.
- Hike up to the Humantay Lake on the first day of the Salkantay Trekking 4 Days.
- Reach to the highest point of the Salkantay trail to enjoy the beautiful views of the Salkantay mountain.
- Make a small ritual for the Andean gods and learn about Inca religión.
- Sleep under the authentic Andean Inca huts our exclusive campsites.
- Visit the icon of South America Machu Picchu on the fourth day of your Salkantay trek 4 Days.
TRIP ITINERARY
Cusco - Mollepata - Challacancha - Humantay Lake - Soraypampa camp
After picking up everyone from their respective places or hotel, we left Cusco around 5:45 am to the town of Mollepata by car for 2 hours. Once in Mollepata, we stop to have a delicious breakfast also You pay 20 soles of the entrance fee to the local municipality.
Then we continue by car 1 hour more to challacancha where we will meet the horse guys and horse who will take all the luggage, food, and the 6 kilos of each hiker belonging.
After you will begin with a moderate three-hour hike to Soraypampa (3,900 m / 12,795 ft), where we will spend the first night. The first part of the section is relatively flat with a slight ascent through a deep glacier valley. You will notice that much of the trail follows a restored Inca water canal, which local farmers still use today.
Once in Soraypampa, you will settle into our exclusive Sky Camp for the night. You will have some time to rest after enjoying your first lunch around the mountains. After recharging your energy, we will start hiking up to the beautiful Humantay Lake (4,200 m / 13,780 ft).
We start the uphill hike to Humantay lake for 2 hours, When you arrive at the lagoon you will have enough time to explore, photograph the place and the guide will explain all the meaning of the Humantay lagoon.
After a couple of hours in the lake, we start to go back down 1.5 hours to Soraypampa camp, once you arrive in the camp you will enjoy a delicious hot tea or coffee.
If you are tired, you can rest in the MOUNTAIN SKY HUST which are the cabins with glass doors, inside there are pillows, sleeping pad and it has illumination for the night.
Soraypampa - Salkantay Pass To Collpapampa Camp
The second day of the trek is the most difficult because it takes you up to 4,630 m / 15,190 ft and 20 km of trekking.
The cooks will wake you up around 5:00 am with a cup of hot coca tea then you have time to repack and get ready for the nutritious breakfast which serves around 5:45 am.
After is time to start hiking up to the highest point of the Salkantay trail which is 4630 m that takes from 3 to 4 hours all uphill hike at a regular and slow pace.
Once you are at the highest point, you have time to enjoy the mountains, to take pictures and the guide will teach you about the mountain gods also you will be part of the small Andean ritual for the Apus the mountain gods.
Then you start hiking down for 2 hours to the lunch place to rest and enjoy a delicious lunch.
After you continue hiking down for three more hours to the second camp which is Collpapampa, where we provide you with the camping equipment tea time and dinner also if you like for ten soles you can rent a hot shower from the locals also you can buy some drinks. The camp is called Collpapampa is located at 2,900 m / 9,514 ft right at the beginning of the Peruvian Amazon area.
Collpapampa - La playa - Lucmabamba - Hidrolectrica - Machu Picchu Pueblo
On the third day, you will already be in the jungle area. We wake you up around 6:00 am with a cup of coca tea, then we provide you with a delicious breakfast.
Around 7:00 am you start the hike to la playa Sahuayaco for 5 hours approximately along the Santa Teresa Valley which is formed by the Salkantay River.
Along the valley, you have the chance to see plantations such a coffee, bananas, avocados, Coca, passion fruit, and much more.
After five hours of hiking, you will arrive at La Playa Sahuayaco, from where you will take local transportation for one hour to Lucmabamba, where you stop to have lunch then you continue by car 55 more minutes to Hydroelectric then walking 3 more hours along the train tracks to Aguas Calientes town on the flat trail.
Then we take you to the hotel for showering and relaxing, in the evening around 7:00 pm we organized a dinner in a restaurant in Aguas Calientes after we go to sleep.
Machu Picchu and Return to Cusco
Finally, we go to see the impressive Machu Picchu.
You’ll wake around 4:00 am to get ready for the hike to Machu Picchu main entrance. Each person will be given a packed breakfast and we will start the 30-minute walk to Puente Ruinas checkpoint where you will have to show your passport, Machu Picchu ticket, and student ID if applicable.
After passing the first checkpoint, we will climb the stairs for about one hour to reach Machu Picchu’s main gate by 6:00 am.
Once everybody meets at the gate, we enter Machu Picchu and begin our 2.5-hour guided tour in the famous Inca site, where you will learn everything about The Lost City of The Incas.
After the guided tour, you’ll have free time to explore Machu Picchu on your own.
The time that you will spend in Machu Picchu will depend on how you are going back to Cusco (train or car) and whether you want to climb the Montaña Machu Picchu or Huayna Picchu Mountain, which must be booked in advance the entrance tickets.
If you booked the extra ticket for HUAYNAPICCHU you will need 2.5 hours for hiking up and down
If you booked the extra ticket for MACHU PICCHU MONATAÑA you will need 3.5 hours for hiking up and down
After visiting Machu Picchu and its surrounding area is time to return to Cusco.
WE OFFER YOU TWO OPTIONS FOR RETURNING TO CUSCO AFTER VISITING MACHU PICCHU
RETURN BY TRAIN:
The train is a beautiful way to return to Cusco and allows you more time (about 7-8 hours) to visit Machu Picchu. If you are planning to hike Huaynapicchu or Machu Picchu Mountain, we strongly advise you to take the train, as these hikes require a minimum of 3 hours to complete. You will need to return to Aguas Calientes in time for your train at 6:20 pm. You may want to give yourself extra time, as some people like to explore the town.
You’ll ride the train for about 1.5 hours to Ollantaytambo from Aguas Calientes town, where you will then switch to a car and finish the final 2 hours of the trip, arriving in Cusco around 10:00 pm.
RETURN BY CAR:
Returning to Cusco by car is a more affordable option for those on a tight budget. However, please be aware that with this option, you’ll have less time to explore Machu Picchu, and if you are planning to hike Huaynapicchu or Machu Picchu Mountain, you will be very tight on time.
The return to Cusco by car is a longer trip (a 8-hour drive in total), as there are no roads leading to Aguas Calientes and the driver must take a longer route back. If you are taking a car back, you will need to leave Machu Picchu by 12:00 am and take the 3-hour walk back to Hidroelectrica, where you will meet the car at 2:00 pm.
If you are considering this option and planning to hike Huaynapicchu or Machu Picchu Mountain, we recommend you stay one more night in Aguas Calientes and return to Cusco by car on the 5th day so that you can fully enjoy the experience.
Inclusions
Included
- Pick-up at hotel in Cusco.
- Bus from Cusco to Challacancha.
- Professional Guide.
- Horses to carry group’s gear (meals & camping equipment).
- Cook & meals (3 breakfasts / 3 lunches / 3 dinners).
- Hostal in Aguas Calientes.
- Camping equipment (tents, mattresses, tables and chairs, kitchen tent and dinner tent).
- Mules to carry your belonging (5 kilos per person).
- First aid kit and Oxygen.
- Entrance fees to Machu picchu.
- Bus from Aguas Calientes to Machu picchu (round trip).
- Train ticket from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo.
- Emergency radio.
- Transportation from Ollantaytambo to Cusco.
No Included
- Entrance to Wayapicchu ($20 pp extra), reserve in advance.
- Sleeping bag (these can be rented with us).
- Walking sticks (these can be rented with us).
- Breakfast on the first day. Lunch and dinner on the last day.
- Tips for guides, cook and porters.
- Services not mentioned.
Pricing
Number of personas | Price per person | |
2 Personas | $ USD 619.00 | Deseo Reservar |
3 Personas | $ USD 619.00 | Deseo Reservar |
4 Personas | $ USD 619.00 | Deseo Reservar |
5 Personas | $ USD 619.00 | Deseo Reservar |
6 Personas | $ USD 619.00 | Deseo Reservar |
7 Personas | $ USD 619.00 | Deseo Reservar |
8 Personas | $ USD 619.00 | Deseo Reservar |
This level of flexibility ensures that every moment is spent exploring the sights and activities that resonate most with the traveler. Whether it’s adjusting the pace of the tour, choosing specific landmarks to visit, or delving into niche interests, a private tour provides the freedom to craft a truly bespoke and meaningful travel experience.
Furthermore, the intimate nature of private tours fosters a deeper connection between the traveler and the destination. Engaging with a knowledgeable and dedicated guide on a one-on-one basis allows for a more enriching cultural exchange. The personalized attention enables travelers to ask questions, delve into local stories, and gain insights that might be overlooked in a larger group setting. This tailored interaction creates a more profound and memorable connection with the destination, enhancing the overall travel experience.
Additionally, the convenience and comfort associated with private tours cannot be overstated. Travelers can enjoy a hassle-free experience with the flexibility to start and end the tour at their convenience. The absence of large groups also ensures a more relaxed and enjoyable exploration, free from the constraints of rigid schedules. In essence, opting for a private tour empowers individuals to curate a unique and meaningful journey, fostering a more profound connection with the destination while reveling in the comfort and convenience of personalized travel.
What to Bring
- Clothing:
- Lightweight, moisture-wicking, and breathable clothing for hiking.
- Warm layers for chilly evenings and nights.
- A waterproof and windproof jacket or poncho.
- Quick-drying underwear and socks.
- Hiking boots or sturdy trekking shoes with good traction.
- Sandals or comfortable shoes for camp.
- Gear:
- Backpack (30-40 liters) for daily essentials.
- Sleeping bag suitable for cold weather.
- Lightweight and compact trekking poles.
- Headlamp or flashlight with extra batteries.
- Camera or smartphone for capturing the breathtaking scenery.
- Protection from the Elements:
- Sunscreen with a high SPF.
- Lip balm with sun protection.
- Wide-brimmed hat or cap.
- Sunglasses with UV protection.
- Health and Personal Care:
- Personal first aid kit with bandages, blister treatment, and any necessary medications.
- Water purification tablets or a water filter.
- Personal hygiene items (toothbrush, toothpaste, etc.).
- Insect repellent.
- Documents and Essentials:
- Passport and any required permits.
- Cash for tips and souvenirs.
- Snacks and energy-boosting foods (granola bars, trail mix, etc.).
- Reusable water bottle or hydration system.
- Optional Items:
- Binoculars for bird watching and enjoying distant views.
- Travel pillow for added comfort during the nights.
- Trekking gaiters for added protection in wet or muddy conditions.
- Power bank to recharge electronic devices.
- Clothing for the Last Day in Machu Picchu:
- A change of clothes for the visit to Machu Picchu.
- Comfortable walking shoes or sneakers.
- Hat and sunglasses.
- Small daypack for your essentials during the visit.
Recommendations
You must acclimatize correctly
To acclimatize yourself correctly, it is necessary to spend a few days in the city of Cusco or in another high altitude location before starting the hike or adventure you want to do. Acclimatization helps your body gradually adapt to the lower concentration of oxygen in the air that exists in high-altitude cities, thus reducing the risk of altitude sickness. Use these days to explore Cusco and enjoy the local culture and allow your body to adjust to the change in altitude more comfortably.
Physical preparation for walks in Cusco
The hikes we offer can be somewhat difficult, but this is more due to the altitude. Before the walk you can do regular exercises to strengthen your legs and improve your resistance, all of this to prepare your muscles for the effort. This will allow you to enjoy the ride more and reduce the risk of muscle fatigue.
Pack your backpack rationally
For your hikes you should include only the essentials: such as a good quality backpack, comfortable hiking boots (remember to wear shoes that you have used before, do not wear new shoes, as these have not yet adapted to your feet), warm clothing ( as temperatures can drop at night), rain gear and a sleeping bag suitable for cold temperatures.
Make sure you only carry the essentials to keep your backpack light and comfortable throughout the hike.
Water and snacks for the walk
Bring a refillable water bottle and snacks to stay hydrated and energized during the hike. Also, be sure to bring enough water for the day and take advantage of opportunities along the trail to refill your bottle. Energy snacks, such as dried fruit and granola bars, will provide you with the energy you need to maintain a good pace.
Travel with a travel agency or independently
Decide if you prefer to do the walk independently or with a guided tour with our travel agency. While doing it independently gives you more flexibility, a guided tour provides logistical support, transportation, and often includes meals. A guide can also enrich your experience by providing information about local history and culture. Also remember that many of our routes are several days long, with changing climates, constant ascents and descents; Traveling with heavy luggage on your back is exhausting and dangerous for the body; At “Xpedition Trek” we do not want you to take risks of any kind, although it is true that there are routes that you can do on your own; There are others that we do not recommend you go alone.
We provide you with all the necessary logistics to make your hike as pleasant as possible.
What you should consider for the climate
In Cusco, the walks and Tours are done in different climates and altitude conditions, so it is necessary to adapt to each of the conditions; Before taking these tours, always ask us about the specific weather of the tour you will do. In addition to warm clothing, bring a waterproof jacket and a hat to protect yourself from the sun. Check weather forecasts before you leave and adjust your luggage accordingly.
Permits and Entry Tickets
Many tourist sites in Cusco require special permits, and involve a cost; Check whether permits are required for the hike or tour you are taking in advance, especially if you plan to go during peak season. This will guarantee your place on the route and allow you to avoid possible logistical setbacks.
Prevention of altitude sickness:
Drink plenty of water, avoid alcohol, and consider using medication to prevent altitude sickness. Consult a health professional before taking any medication. Additionally, walk at a steady pace and allow your body to gradually adapt to the altitude to minimize the symptoms of altitude sickness.
Enjoy the landscape
Take time to appreciate the stunning landscapes, diverse ecosystems, and cultural sites along the way. The Salkantay Route offers impressive views of the Andes. Don’t rush and take advantage of every moment to absorb the natural beauty that surrounds you. Consider bringing a camera to capture unforgettable memories of your adventure.