Tripadvisor
The Salkantay Trek 4 days is one of the most beautiful and adventurous routes to Machu Picchu, offering an alternative to the classic Inca Trail. This trek takes you through stunning Andean landscapes, with dramatic views of the snow-capped Salkantay Mountain, tropical forests, and ancient Inca paths. Whether you’re an experienced trekker or looking for an off-the-beaten-path adventure, the Salkantay Trek offers a rewarding and less crowded way to reach the famous citadel of Machu Picchu.
Why Choose the Salkantay Trek 4 Days?
A Scenic and Adventurous Alternative
The Salkantay Trek is often considered one of the most scenic treks in Peru. Named after the majestic Salkantay Mountain (6,271 meters / 20,574 feet), this route offers hikers the chance to experience a wide range of ecosystems, from high-altitude alpine landscapes to lush cloud forests. The trek is a bit more physically demanding than the Inca Trail, but it rewards trekkers with breathtaking scenery and fewer crowds.
If you’re seeking a more remote and wild adventure to Machu Picchu, the Salkantay Trek is a perfect alternative that combines nature, culture, and history in a 4-day journey.
No Permits Required
Unlike the Inca Trail, the Salkantay Trek does not require a permit, which means it’s a great option for those who may not have secured a spot on the Inca Trail or prefer more flexibility in their trekking plans. This also makes the Salkantay Trek a fantastic choice for last-minute travelers looking to hike to Machu Picchu.
Diverse and Stunning Landscapes
One of the main attractions of the Salkantay Trek is the diverse landscapes that you’ll pass through over the course of four days. Starting from high-altitude mountain passes, the trek descends into subtropical cloud forests and lush valleys filled with wildlife, waterfalls, and Inca ruins.
The highlight of the trek is crossing the Salkantay Pass at 4,650 meters (15,255 feet), where you’ll be treated to incredible views of Salkantay Mountain and its surrounding glaciers. From there, the trek winds down through warmer, tropical landscapes, providing a true sense of adventure as you make your way to Machu Picchu.
Highlights of the Salkantay Trek 4 Days
Day 1: Start at Mollepata and Hike to Soraypampa
Your Salkantay Trek adventure begins with an early morning departure from Cusco to Mollepata, a small village where the trek officially starts. From here, you’ll begin hiking toward Soraypampa, passing through scenic valleys and enjoying the first views of Salkantay Mountain. Along the way, you’ll have the option to visit Humantay Lake, a stunning turquoise lake surrounded by towering peaks.
- Distance: 12 kilometers (7.5 miles)
- Camp: Soraypampa, at an altitude of 3,900 meters (12,795 feet)
Day 2: Conquer Salkantay Pass
Day 2 is the most challenging but rewarding part of the trek, as you’ll cross the Salkantay Pass, the highest point of the trek at 4,650 meters (15,255 feet). The ascent to the pass is steep, but the panoramic views of the snow-capped Salkantay Mountain and its surrounding glaciers are absolutely breathtaking. After reaching the pass, you’ll begin your descent into the cloud forest, where you’ll experience a dramatic change in landscape and climate.
- Distance: 22 kilometers (13.7 miles)
- Camp: Chaullay, at an altitude of 2,900 meters (9,514 feet)
Day 3: Descend Into the Cloud Forest
On Day 3, you’ll continue your descent into the lush cloud forest, where the warmer climate and rich biodiversity create a completely different atmosphere from the high-altitude mountains. You’ll hike through tropical valleys filled with fruit trees, waterfalls, and coffee plantations, passing small Andean villages along the way. This day offers plenty of opportunities to interact with local farmers and learn about their way of life.
- Distance: 15 kilometers (9.3 miles)
- Camp: Lucmabamba, at an altitude of 2,000 meters (6,562 feet)
Day 4: Hike to Aguas Calientes and Visit Machu Picchu
On the final day of your trek, you’ll follow an ancient Inca trail that leads to Llactapata, an Inca ruin that offers a unique and less-crowded view of Machu Picchu from a distance. From here, you’ll continue your hike down to the hydroelectric station, where you’ll take a train to Aguas Calientes, the town at the base of Machu Picchu. After a night in Aguas Calientes, you’ll wake up early the next morning to visit Machu Picchu for a full guided tour of the iconic citadel.
- Distance: 14 kilometers (8.7 miles)
- Accommodation: Hotel in Aguas Calientes
Who is the Salkantay Trek 4 Days For?
The Salkantay Trek 4 Days is ideal for adventurous travelers who are in good physical condition and looking for a more off-the-beaten-path alternative to the Inca Trail. While the trek is physically demanding, with significant altitude and long days of hiking, it is accessible to anyone with a moderate level of fitness.
This trek is perfect for nature lovers, experienced hikers, and those seeking a less crowded route to Machu Picchu. If you’re looking for a trekking experience that combines stunning natural beauty with a sense of adventure, the Salkantay Trek is an excellent choice.
Sustainability and Responsible Trekking
As with all trekking routes in Peru, it’s important to choose a responsible tour operator that prioritizes environmental conservation and the well-being of local communities. The Salkantay Trek passes through fragile ecosystems, and preserving the natural environment is essential for ensuring that future generations can enjoy the beauty of the Andes.
By booking with a responsible tour operator like Guiding Cusco Expeditions, you’ll ensure that your trek follows sustainable practices. These operators employ local guides, provide fair wages to porters, and ensure that all waste is properly managed, helping to protect the landscape and support local economies.
What’s Included in the Salkantay Trek 4 Days?
The Salkantay Trek 4 Days package typically includes:
- Permits and entrance fees: Entrance to Machu Picchu and other necessary permits.
- Professional guides: Experienced, English-speaking guides who provide insights into the history, culture, and nature of the Andes.
- Meals: Fresh, locally sourced meals prepared by professional cooks during the trek.
- Camping equipment: Tents, sleeping mats, and other necessary camping gear.
- Porters: Porters and mules to carry your camping gear and equipment, allowing you to hike with a lighter load.
- Transportation: Transfers from Cusco to the starting point, and train tickets from Aguas Calientes to Cusco.
Alternatives to the Salkantay Trek 4 Days
For those seeking a more cultural trekking experience, the Inca Trail is another popular option, offering a journey through ancient Inca ruins and arriving at Machu Picchu through the Sun Gate. For a more remote and less traveled route, the Lares Trek takes hikers through traditional Andean villages, providing a unique cultural experience along the way.
If you have more time and want to fully immerse yourself in the Andes, the Salkantay Trek can also be extended to a 5-day or 7-day trek, offering more time to explore the surrounding landscapes.
Why the Salkantay Trek 4 Days is a Must-Do
The Salkantay Trek 4 Days offers a thrilling and rewarding alternative to the Inca Trail, taking you through some of the most stunning landscapes in the Andes. With breathtaking views of Salkantay Mountain, lush cloud forests, and the chance to visit Machu Picchu, this trek is perfect for adventurous travelers looking for a more remote and scenic route.
For more information or to book your trek, visit Guiding Cusco Expeditions, or contact us directly via WhatsApp.
