Cusco: 4-Day Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu, Panoramic Train

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ID: GYG860973-1358122
Category:
Country: Peru

Duration: 4 days


Description

Embark on the epic 4-day Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu! Hike stunning mountains, visit lakes and cloud forests, enjoy a Pachamanca barbecue and coffee tour, and return by the scenic Vistadome train.
Day 1: Cusco – Humantay Lake – SalkaGlamp Basecamp

Start early with a 4:30 AM pickup. After breakfast in Mollepata, hike 3 hours to Soraypampa, where a fresh lunch awaits. Then, enjoy a 2-hour climb to Humantay Lake’s turquoise beauty at 4,200 m, with stunning Andean views and possible wildlife sightings.

Afterward, head to SalkaGlamp at 3,900 m for your glamping experience—complete with tea, dinner, and a peaceful night under the stars.

Day 2: SalkaGlamp – Salkantay Pass – Collpapampa

Start your day with coffee or coca tea brought to your glamping tent. Step outside to stunning views of plains and snow-capped peaks. After a hearty breakfast, hike 2 hours to the trek’s highest point—Salkantay Pass at 4,630 m (15,190 ft). Take in the breathtaking landscapes and serene lake beneath Salkantay Mountain.

From here, descend 3 hours to Wayracmachay (3,800 m) for a well-earned lunch. Then, trek another 3 hours down into the cloud forest, where vibrant flowers, hummingbirds, and orchids await. By evening, reach Collpapampa (2,770 m) to relax in cozy jungle huts, enjoy a hot shower, and rest in a comfortable bed.

Day 3: Collpapampa – Hidroelectrica – Aguas Calientes

This is the highlight of your Salkantay adventure! After breakfast, enjoy a 3-hour scenic hike to Lucmabamba (2,000 m), where you’ll help prepare a traditional Pachamanca barbecue—a unique Peruvian feast cooked with hot stones.

After lunch, visit an organic coffee farm to learn about coffee-making and try your hand at brewing espresso from fresh beans. Then, take a short drive to Hidroelectrica and hike 3 hours to Aguas Calientes, surrounded by lush scenery as you approach Machu Picchu. Arrive around 5:00 p.m. for dinner and a cozy night in a local hotel, ready for tomorrow’s big adventure!

Day 4: Explore Machu Picchu - Return to Cusco
Get ready for the ultimate highlight of your adventure: Machu Picchu! Start bright and early with a 5:30 a.m. bus ride to the ancient citadel. As the first light touches the ruins, you’ll enjoy incredible views and, if the skies are clear, the unforgettable sight of sunrise over the Lost City of the Incas.

Your guide will lead a fascinating 2-3 hour tour, sharing the history and mysteries of this magical place. Afterward, take time to wander on your own, or, if you've booked in advance, tackle Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain for breathtaking views.

When you’re ready, head back to Aguas Calientes for lunch (not included). Then, relax on the scenic Vistadome train to Ollantaytambo, where our team will be waiting to take you back to your hotel, wrapping up this once-in-a-lifetime journey.

Highlights

  • Explore Humantay Lake and camp by Salkantay Mountain
  • Enjoy our comfortable glamping experience
  • Savor a Pachamanca barbecue and Coffee Tour
  • Return in style on panoramic trains (Vistadome or 360°)

Guiding languages

IMPORTANT INFORMATION
• Please advise of any special dietary needs when booking
• Children must be accompanied by an adult
• Passport details must be provided when booking
INCLUDED
  • Pre-departure briefing
  • Hotel pickup and drop off
  • All transportation during the tour
  • Professional Tour Guide
  • Return on the panoramic Vistadome Train or 360°
  • Entry tickets to the Salkantay Trek and Machu Picchu
  • Cargo mules to carry all camping equipment
  • Experienced chef to prepare meals
  • 2-night camping in comfortable tents
  • 1 night 3-star hotel in Aguas Calientes
  • All meals on the trail, except the last day lunch (all dietary needs covered)
  • Water and daily snacks
  • Pachamanca barbecue, cooking class, coffee experience
  • Duffle Bag for up to 8 kg (17 lb) for your stuff
  • First-aid kit, satellite phones, oxygen supply
  • Pillow, sleeping pad, rain poncho, hand towels
NOT INCLUDED
  • Sleeping bag, air mattress, trekking poles
  • Last day lunch in Aguas Calientes
  • Entry to Huayna Picchu Mountain
  • Entry to Machu Picchu Mountain
  • Travel Insurance (recommended)

When should I book?

To guarantee availability book as soon as possible. Early booking is worth consideration especially if you planning the trip during high season like public holidays or weekends.


Cancellations

This excursion you can cancel with no cost up to 24 hours before the start of the trip. If you cancel it after 24 hours or not show up on the excursion you will still be charged the full price of the activity. Being late on pick-up or departure will be considered as not showing up.