Cusco: 4-Day Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu, Panoramic Train
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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.
Highlights
- Conquer the Salkantay Pass, discover the Humantay Lake & the iconic Machu Picchu
- Stay in comfort with glamping tents, Andean huts and a 3-star hotel stay
- Take part in a traditional Pachamanca barbecue and authentic coffee experience
- Return in style on the Vistadome or 360° panoramic train
Description
Day 1: Cusco – Humantay Lake – SalkaGlamp Basecamp
Begin with a 4:30 a.m. hotel pickup in Cusco’s historic center and a scenic drive through Andean valleys to Mollepata for breakfast, then continue to Challacancha to start your trek to the turquoise Humantay Lake admiring its crystal waters and mountain vistas, before descending to Soraypampa for lunch, continue onward to the Salkantaypampa glamping camp, where cozy tents, a warm dinner, and a peaceful night beneath the towering Andes and a star-filled sky await.
Day 2: SalkaGlamp – Salkantay Pass – Collpapampa
Start the morning with coffee or coca tea served at your tent, then enjoy a hearty breakfast before beginning a 2-hour ascent to the highest point of the trek, the Salkantay Pass (4,630 m/15,190 ft). Take in panoramic views of snow-capped peaks and the serene lake beneath Salkantay Mountain before descending three hours to Wayracmachay for a well-deserved lunch. Continue the journey with another three-hour hike into the lush cloud forest, where colorful flowers, orchids and hummingbirds create a spectacular change of scenery. By evening, arrive in Collpapampa to relax in cozy Andean huts and rest comfortably surrounded by the sounds of nature.
Day 3: Collpapampa – Hidroelectrica – Aguas Calientes
Begin the most immersive section of your adventure with breakfast followed by a 3-hour hike to Lucmabamba, where you’ll take part in a traditional Pachamanca barbecue, an Andean meal of vegetables, fruits and meats slow-cooked underground with hot stones. Visit a local coffee farm to learn the process from bean to cup and prepare your own freshly brewed espresso. Afterward, continue with a drive to Hidroeléctrica and a three-hour hike to Aguas Calientes. Upon arrival, check into your 3-star hotel, enjoy dinner at a local restaurant, and rest ahead of your unforgettable visit to Machu Picchu.
Day 4: Explore Machu Picchu - Return to Cusco
Rise early to catch one of the first buses to Machu Picchu and watch the sunrise over the surrounding mountains before beginning a guided exploration of the citadel. Spend 2-3 hours discovering the key areas as your expert guide shares history and the enduring mysteries of this extraordinary site. Afterward, return to Aguas Calientes for lunch (not included), then board the Vistadome or 360° panoramic train for a scenic journey back to Cusco, where our team will be waiting to transfer you to your hotel.
Includes
Safety briefing one day before the tour
Entrance tickets for the Salkantay Trek & Machu Picchu with Professional tour guide
All transportation, hotel pickup & drop-off, plus return on Vistadome or 360° train
1 night glamping at Salkantay Camp & 1 night in Andean huts at Collpapampa
1 night at a 3-star hotel in Aguas Calientes with breakfast
All meals on the trail: 3 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 3 dinners, water and daily snacks
Pachamanca barbecue, cooking class and coffee experience
Duffle bag (up to 7kg / 11lb) for personal belongings
Pillow, sleeping pad, rain poncho and hand towels provided
Satellite phone, first-aid kit and oxygen tank
Important Information
- Please inform us of any special dietary requirements at the time of booking.
- All children must be accompanied by a responsible adult.
- Passport details are required when making your booking.
- This tour includes Circuit 2 by default. If sold out, Circuit 1 or 3 will be assigned. Optional hikes to Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain available with advance booking.
Easy cancellation
This activity is non-refundable