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TREKKING ALTERNATIVE Salkantay 4-Day Trek

Embark on an exciting journey through the Andean wonders with our 4-day Salkantay Trek adventure in Peru, where you'll enjoy an extraordinary journey from the majestic heights of the Andes to the enchanting cloud forest of the Historic Sanctuary of Machu Picchu, immersing yourself in stunning landscapes and exploring the iconic Inca citadel with expert guidance. This trek stands out as an exciting and sought-after hiking route that offers a unique alternative to the traditional Inca Trail, presenting breathtaking views, diverse ecosystems, and an immersive encounter with Andean culture. This trek allows you to discover the beauty of one of Peru's premier treks, delighting in the splendor of Andean streams, majestic glaciers, and the untamed charm of the Salkantay.

Itinerary

Day 1: A Challenging Journey to Salkantay Pass and Cocalmayo Hot Springs

Embark on an exciting adventure as you begin your Salkantay Trek from Cusco to Soraypampa. Take in stunning views of the Salkantay and Humantay glaciers at an altitude of 3,930 meters. The highlight of the day is crossing the Salkantay Pass on horseback, reaching an impressive altitude of 4,638 meters. Descend to Challway through challenging terrain, hiking for 5 hours, and enjoy a local transfer to Santa Teresa. Conclude the day with a relaxing soak in the Cocalmayo Hot Springs before an overnight stay in Santa Teresa.

Lo que se incluye:

  • Transfer from Cusco to Soraypampa.
  • Admission to the Salkantay Circuit.
  • Admission to the Cocalmayo hot springs.
  • Horseback ride to the Salkantay Pass (2.5 hours).
  • Portable oxygen and first aid kit.
  • Transportation from the Trail to Santa Teresa.
  • Meals: Boxed lunch and dinner in Santa Teresa.
  • Accommodation in Santa Teresa: 2-star hotel.

Estadísticas del día

  • Starting altitude: 3,930 m.a.s.l. (Soraypampa)
  • Maximum altitude: 4,638 m.a.s.l. (Salkantay Pass)
  • Hiking time: 5 hours
  • Descent: From Salkantay Pass to Challway
  • Transportation: Local transfer to Santa Teresa

Day 2: Lucmabamba Trail to Machu Picchu Pueblo

Embark on a 40-minute local transfer from Santa Teresa to Lucmabamba, beginning your hike at 6:20 a.m. Hike through the rainforest, reaching Lucmabamba Pass at 2,814 meters. Explore the Llactapata archaeological site, which offers panoramic views of Machu Picchu. Descend to Hidroeléctrica and hike for 3 hours to reach Aguas Calientes, the base of Machu Picchu. This 22 km hike involves a combination of ascending and descending trails, lasting approximately 8 hours.

Lo que se incluye:

  • Transportation from Santa Teresa to Lucmabamba.
  • Meals: Breakfast in Lucmabamba and lunch in Llactapata.

Estadísticas del día

  • Starting altitude: 2,814 m.a.s.l. (Lucmabamba Pass)
  • Total distance: 22 km
  • Hiking time: Approximately 8 hours
  • Descent: From the Llactapata archaeological site to Aguas Calientes

Day 3: Short Inca Trail to Inti Punku

Embark on a hike from Machu Picchu Pueblo to the Short Inca Trail, which offers incredible panoramic views. Start at 5:30 a.m., walking 16 km in 7 hours. Arrive at km 104, where you will check your documentation and enter the Short Inca Trail. Continue to Inti Punku with a 5-hour hike through the cloud forest, encountering diverse flora and fauna. Conclude the day in Machu Picchu Town, with a bus service to Aguas Calientes.

Lo que se incluye:

  • Short Inca Trail entrance fee.
  • Lunch: Boxed lunch.
  • Bus service from Machu Picchu to Machu Picchu Town.

Estadísticas del día

  • Total distance: 16 km
  • Hiking time: 7 hours
  • Maximum altitude: Inti Punku (approximately 2,730 m.a.s.l.)
  • Hiking time on the Short Inca Trail: 5 hours from km 104

Day 4: Explore Machu Picchu and Return to Cusco

Experience the magnificence of Machu Picchu with a 2-hour guided tour, exploring ancient ruins and enjoying panoramic views. Board the Machu Picchu train in the afternoon for a 1-hour and 40-minute trip to Ollantaytambo. Transfer to Cusco for a short walk, concluding your 4-day Salkantay Trekking Adventure. The day's physical level is easy, making it a relaxing yet culturally enriching experience.

Lo que se incluye:

  • Bus service to Machu Picchu.
  • Admission fees to Machu Picchu via Circuit 5.
  • 2-hour guided tour of Machu Picchu.
  • Return train to Cusco (Inca Rail, Voyager 44 class, departing at 2:30 PM).
  • Private transfer from Ollantaytambo to Cusco.
  • All local Peruvian taxes.

Estadísticas del día

  • Guided tour time in Machu Picchu: 2 hours
  • Travel time by train: 1 hour and 40 minutes from Machu Picchu to Ollantaytambo
  • Physical level for the day: Easy

Not included

Hotels, hostels, Airbnb, or accommodations for stays in Cusco and Aguas Calientes.

Meals not described in the itinerary.

Train from Hidroeléctrica to Aguas Calientes by PERURAIL at 4:35 PM. Service: HYDROELECTRIC to MACHU PICCHU PUEBLO.

Sleeping bag.

Breakfast on day 1 and lunch on day 4.

Tips for staff (muleteers, cook, and guide).

4 DAYS
PRICE: STARTING AT $490 USD
Places to visit:
Salkantay - Machu Picchu
Physical activity:
HALF-DAY
Trip starts in:
Hotel Pickup
Travel style:
Trekking - Adventure
Group size:
Consult your advisor
Departures:
DAY Availability

Tierra Biru Expeditions is a member of the Adventure Operators in Peru, registered and authorized by the Peruvian Ministry of Culture.

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