Overview

The Salkantay to Machu Picchu trek is very popular with trekking enthusiasts. Embark on an epic 75 km trek through breathtaking mountains, visiting lakes and jungles with a local guide and nutritious food.
An unforgettable adventure with the Salkantay Trek 4 Days to Machu Picchu, the ideal choice for travelers seeking the full Salkantay experience in a shorter and more efficient time frame. This expertly designed itinerary offers a perfect balance of challenge, scenery and culture, immersing you in the majestic yin landscapes, snow-capped glaciers and lush valleys that define the Salkantay region, all in just four action-packed days.

📅AVAILABILITY & BOOKING

To check availability and book the Salkantay Trek, please contact us via WhatsApp at “👉 +51 931 316 437” before making your reservation so we can speak with you in real time. If your preferred start date is available, please let us know your travel date. We will check the availability of your Machu Picchu entrance ticket, assist you with your reservation if available, and always choose the best available circuit at the time of your reservation. Machu Picchu has several official circuits to visit, and we prioritize them in the following order: If Opt 1 is available, we will purchase that one. If not, we will choose Opt 2, and so on, depending on the real-time availability shown on the official Peruvian government website, as they are the only authorized seller of Machu Picchu tickets, and all agencies purchase through the same system.

Opt 1: Llaqta Machupicchu / Circuito 2 – Circuito clásico / Ruta 2-A: Clásico Diseñada: It includes the viewpoint, the classic photo and a complete visit to the Inca citadel, being this the most requested circuit, (book 3 months before your trip).
Opt 2: Llaqta Machupicchu / Circuito 2 – Circuito clásico / Ruta 2-B: Terraza Inferior: Similar to Option 1, with a slightly different route in the urban area (if Option 1 is no longer available, we will reserve this one).
Opt 3: Llaqta Machupicchu / Circuito 1 – Panorámico / Ruta 1-B: Terraza superior: It covers the upper part of the classic lookout, but you will not be able to visit the citadel.
Opt 4: Llaqta Machupicchu / Circuito 3 – Machupicchu realeza / Ruta 3-B: Realeza diseñada: Visit only the lower part of Machu Picchu, without access to the classic viewpoint, but you will visit the central viewpoint.
Opt 5: Llaqta Machupicchu / Circuit 1 – Route 1-A: Machu Picchu Montaña: It includes the ascent to the Machu Picchu mountain with panoramic views, but not the citadel, this option has a higher cost than the others because it is a combination of circuit 1 plus the Machu Picchu mountain.
Opt 6: Llaqta Machupicchu / Circuit 3 – Route 3-A: Waynapicchu Montaña: It includes the hike to Wayna Picchu and a brief visit to the lower part of the citadel, this option has a higher cost than the others because it is a combination of circuit 3 plus the Wayna Picchu mountain.

If Opt 1 is important to you, book at least 4 months in advance—it’s the most popular and sells out quickly. All tickets are sold exclusively by the Peruvian government, and no agency can access tickets beyond what’s available on the official platform. You can check real-time availability of MachuPicchu circuits here: 👉 +51 931 316 437

Note: If you make your reservation for the Salkanay trekking service and you do not have the entrance ticket to Machu Picchu, you must bring USD 40.00 or PEN 152.00 per person (to be purchased in Aguas Calientes Machu Picchu pueblo).

Tour Highlights

The Salkantay Trek is listed as one of the 25 best treks in the world by National Geographic Adventure Travel Magazine
Enjoy one of the very best trekking adventures you’ll find in Peru and South America
Besides the Inca Trail, the Salkantay Trek is one of the most popular treks to Machu Picchu and a lot less crowded
Private camping with fewer people allows you to control your own trip and have the best views of these incredible mountains
Visit stunning locations like Humantay Lake and the glorious Salkantay Mountain
Witness incredible scenery like cascades, waterfalls, glaciers, mountains, colorful valleys, unique plants and wildlife, and the cloud forest
Hike alongside the magnificent Salkantay glacier
Exploring the ancient citadel of Machu Picchu is one of the greatest experiences in the world

Included/Excluded

PRE-TREK BRIEFING AT 5 PM OR 6 PM AT THE MACHU PICCHU JUNGLE OFFICE IN CUSCO:

The day before starting the 5-day Salkantay Trek, a briefing will be held at 5:00 pm at the Machu Picchu Jungle Trek office in Cusco. During this meeting, The guide will provide important information, such as:
Technical details of the trek.
Exact pick-up times to begin the tour.
Printouts of your Machu Picchu and train tickets (if you have already booked and paid for them).
Distribution of the duffle bag, in which you can pack up to 6 kg of personal belongings to be carried by the horses.
The guide will also explain how to store any extra luggage if you wish to leave it with Machu Picchu Jungle Trek: For this briefing, you don’t need to bring any personal belongings, just your passport for the check-in process of your reserved tour. After the meeting, you can:
Pay any outstanding balance if you haven’t paid 100% of the tour cost.
Rent a sleeping bag or trekking poles if you didn’t rent them when you booked the trek.

PROFESSIONAL TOUR GUIDE FOR THE SALKANTAY TREK AND MACHU PICCHU TOUR INCLUDED:

The Salkantay Trek is led by certified professional guides who are experts in mountain excursions, including the Salkantay itself. Our guides will accompany you throughout the entire trek and also provide a guided tour of Machu Picchu, following the circuit and schedule indicated on your ticket. Always equipped with a first aid kit and an oxygen tank, they are prepared to assist in case of any emergency. Additionally, our guides speak both English and Spanish, ensuring an informative and safe experience.

PICK-UP SERVICE FROM YOUR HOTEL OR AIRBNB BETWEEN 4:00 A.M. AND 5:00 A.M:

The Salkantay Trek includes pick-up service from your hotel to start the journey. The pick-up is scheduled between 4:00 and 5:00 a.m., but the exact time will be confirmed during the briefing on the day prior. During the briefing, the guide will provide the precise time based on the location of your accommodation.
If your hotel is close to our office, you also have the option to arrive there at 5:00 a.m. to start the trek. All pick-up details will be coordinated directly with your guide during the briefing, which takes place one day before the trek begins.

DUFFLE BAG SERVICE FOR 6 KILOS:

During the informational briefing, you will be provided with a duffle bag that allows you to pack up to 7 kilos of your personal belongings. Our team will transport these duffle bags on horses throughout the entire trek, ensuring you have access to them at the campsites. This service enables you to hike comfortably with just your daypack. After completing your trek and returning to Cusco, you can easily leave the duffle bags at the Machu Picchu Jungle office for your convenience.
You must leave a cash deposit of $10 as a guarantee. The $10 will be returned to you when you return the duffle bag to the office where you received it.

PRIVATE TRANSPORT FROM CUSCO TO THE STARTING POINT OF THE TREK IN SORAYPAMPA:

Our Salkantay Trek service includes private transport for the group from Cusco to Soraypampa, the starting point of the hike. You will travel in a comfortable tourist vehicle from Cusco directly to Soraypampa, where you’ll meet the support team to begin your trekking adventure. This car journey takes approximately 3 hours, providing a convenient and comfortable way to start your trek with ease.

MEALS INCLUDED IN THE 4-DAY SALKANTAY TREK:

The 4-Day Salkantay Trek includes 3 breakfasts, 3 lunches, and 3 dinners, prepared by our expert chefs who travel with the group throughout the journey. We also offer vegan, vegetarian, and other special dietary options if you have any restrictions. Additionally, each morning we provide snacks for the day. The meals we serve are fresh, high-quality, nutritious, and energy-boosting to help you perform your best during the trek.

WHAT TYPE OF ACCOMMODATION IS INCLUDED IN THE 4-DAY SALKANTAY TREK?

The Salkantay Trek includes two nights in cabins and one night in Aguas Calientes.
Each campsite is equipped with mattresses and pillows; you only need to bring your sleeping bag. If you do not have a sleeping bag, you can rent one from Machu Picchu Jungle Trek.
The accommodations are designed for two people each, but they are spacious enough to comfortably sleep three to four individuals. If you are part of a group of three or four and wish to sleep together, this arrangement is possible. However, the standard setup is typically for three people per accommodation.

HOSTEL STAY IN AGUAS CALIENTES:

Enjoy a rejuvenating night in a cozy hostel located in Aguas Calientes, also known as Machu Picchu Town, the gateway to the iconic Inca citadel. Our carefully selected hostels offer a variety of comfortable rooms equipped with private bathrooms, hot showers, and Wi-Fi access, making them ideal for groups.
This relaxing environment provides all the essential amenities to help you unwind and refresh after your trek, ensuring you’re well-rested and ready for your visit to the magnificent Machu Picchu.

COOKING TEAM RESPONSIBLE FOR MEAL PREPARATION THROUGHOUT THE ENTIRE SALKANTAY TREK:

Machu Picchu Jungle Trek includes a team of chefs dedicated to meal preparation along the Salkantay Trek route. These chefs are responsible for preparing breakfast, lunch, and dinner for all participants. They are also trained to accommodate special dietary needs, such as vegetarian, vegan, and lactose-free options, adapting to each group member’s specific requirements to ensure proper nutrition.

KITCHEN EQUIPMENT AND UTENSILS:

We provide all the necessary equipment and utensils for meal preparation and serving. Our team transports them to each campsite, ensuring you enjoy your meals in optimal conditions.

FOR THE SALKANTAY TREK, WE INCLUDE A TEAM OF MULETEERS AND HORSES:

For the Salkantay Trek, we include a team of muleteers and horses. Our team of muleteers and their horses are essential to the success of the experience, as they are responsible for transporting all camping equipment, food supplies, and other necessary loads along the route. The horses also carry the duffle bags with up to 7 kilos of personal belongings per participant, including sleeping bags. This way, you can hike with just a small daypack carrying your essentials, while our team transports your luggage from one campsite to the next, allowing you to fully enjoy the trek.

MACHU PICCHU TICKET :

Entrance to Machu Picchu must be added according to the available Circuit. Please contact us before booking; we will check availability based on your travel date
We’ll help you book your entrance ticket to Machu Picchu. (Note: Check available circuit to Machu Picchu and pay USD 40.00 at the Cusco office.) Please inquire before booking.
If our first option is available, Circuit 2: Llaqta Machu Picchu / Classic Route 2-A, which leads to the iconic panoramic viewpoint and allows you to explore about 70% of the citadel we will make the reservation.
But if this circuit is not available, we will book Circuit 2-B: Lower Terrace, which also offers the classic viewpoint and access to 60% of Machu Picchu and if neither is available we will make the reservation.
To ensure you get one of these circuits, we recommend booking your tour 3 to 4 months in advance.
If neither of these options is available, we’ll select an alternative circuit that allows access to specific areas of Machu Picchu. You can find more details about the circuits in the link below.

MACHU PICCHU GUIDED TOUR:

Your package includes a scheduled 2-hour visit to Machu Picchu, featuring an immersive 2.5-hour guided tour led by one of our expert guides. This tour is designed to enhance your understanding of this historic site and is tailored to fit your ticket’s entry time and designated circuit.
Following this engaging exploration, you’ll have 30 minutes of personal time to fully appreciate the breathtaking beauty of Machu Picchu before continuing your journey.
The circuit that has the guided service is circuit 2A and B of Machu Picchu.(6 AM or 7 AM)

RETURN TRIP OPTIONS FROM MACHU PICCHU:

After your visit to Machu Picchu, you have two options for your return trip: by car or by train.
Train Option: Typically, your train ticket will be scheduled for 2:30 p.m., 2:55 p.m., or 3:20 p.m., depending on availability. To reach the train station, you can either walk for about an hour or take a bus for $12. You’ll have some time to explore the charming town of Aguas Calientes, enjoy lunch, and relax. Please make sure to arrive at the train station at least 30 minutes before your departure. The train ride to Ollantaytambo takes approximately 1.5 hours. Once you arrive, a transfer from Machu Picchu Jungle will be waiting for you with your name. You will then travel by car back to Cusco, which takes another 2 hours, with a drop-off at Plaza Regocijo. You can expect to return to Cusco around 6:30 p.m.
Car Option: If you choose the car option, you will start with a 3-hour hike from Machu Picchu to the hydroelectric station. This trek should begin no later than 11:00 a.m. The hike consists of an initial 30-40 minute descent, followed by approximately 1.5 to 2 hours of flat walking along the train tracks. You should arrive at the hydroelectric station by 1:40 p.m. to catch the 2:00 p.m. car. The car journey back to Cusco will take around 6 to 7 hours, and you will arrive at approximately 10:00 p.m., with the final stop at Plaza Regocijo in the center of Cusco.

FREE STORAGE SERVICE:

If you have extra luggage and need a place to store it during your Salkantay Trek, Machu Picchu Jungle offers a complimentary storage service for all clients who book the tour with us.
Our storage facility is conveniently located at our main office in the heart of Cusco, just a short walk from Plaza de Armas. The storage is available daily from 4:30 am to 10:00 pm, including Sundays. For security reasons, access outside these hours is not available.

VEGETARIAN AND VEGAN DINING:

We provide a selection of vegetarian and vegan meals, along with options to accommodate various dietary restrictions, including gluten-free choices. There is no additional cost for these modifications; simply inform us of your preferences when making your reservation.

EMERGENCY PROVISIONS:

To prepare for any urgent situations during tours, our guides carry essential emergency supplies. Each guide is equipped with an oxygen bottle and a fully stocked first aid kit to provide immediate assistance when needed.

ENTRANCE TICKET TO HUMANTAY LAGOON:

On the first day of the trek, you will visit Humantay Lagoon. This site requires an entrance ticket, which is paid to the local government of Mollepata. The cost is 20 soles for foreigners (approximately 6 dollars) and 10 soles for Peruvians (approximately 3 dollars). Payment is made in soles and in cash at the entrance to the lagoon.

SLEEPING BAG:

If you do not have a suitable sleeping bag for the mountains, you can rent one from us. The sleeping bags we offer are specially designed to withstand the low temperatures of the Salkantay Trek, up to 10 degrees below zero.
The rental price is $10 for a cotton sleeping bag for the entire route. It is designed for people who are used to the cold.
The rental price is $20 for a feather sleeping bag suitable for temperatures down to -10 degrees Celsius throughout the route. It is designed for people who feel the cold easily, for warm countries.

TREKKING POLES:

You can rent a pair of professional trekking poles from us. These poles are adjustable according to the type of terrain and are very helpful, especially on steep and rough terrains. They optimize your performance, and the rental cost is 10 dollars for the entire trek.

DRINKING WATER FOR BOTTLES:

We do not include refilling of water bottles, but we provide water for hot and cold drinks at each meal. For bottle water, you have two options: buy mineral water at small shops along the Salkantay Trail, with prices ranging from 5 to 12 soles per 2.5-liter bottle, or carry a filter or purification tablets for mountain water.

INTERNET CONNECTION:

There is no cell signal from 9 am on the first day until reaching the second camp. At this camp, you can access Wi-Fi for 10 soles. After the third day, you will generally have cell signal and internet access.

SHOWERS AND TOILETS ALONG THE TRAIL:

Toilets are available at the campsites at no cost, but locals may charge 1 sol for using theirs along the way. As for showers, the second camp offers hot showers for 10 soles, while cold showers are free. You also have the option to visit the hot springs on the third day or use the hot showers at the Aguas Calientes hostel on the fourth day. Generally, there are no showers available at the first camp due to the low temperatures.

TIPS:

Tips are optional. Feel free to tip or not, but in this tourism service industry, the individuals involved in the course of this trek expect a tip, which occurs not only in our company but also in all trekking companies in Cusco. Everyone working at Machu Picchu Jungle is paid fairly for the work they perform; we even pay much more than companies that charge very high costs for the same trek. Feel free to give a tip or not, but we want to clarify that it is optional, not mandatory.

WE DO NOT INCLUDE TRAVEL INSURANCE:

We suggest acquiring one in your country, as it can be difficult to obtain travel insurance in Peru.

TRANSPORT LUCMABAMBA TO HIDROELECTRICA:

After lunch does not include transportation from Lucmabamba to Hidroeléctrica. You will pay 40 to 50 soles per person. The duration is 1:50 to 2:00 hours.

Note: If you make your reservation and we don’t have availability to purchase tickets to Machu Picchu, you must bring $40 per person (you can purchase them in Aguas Calientes).

What To Pack

ESSENTIALS:

Original Passport: Confirm it’s valid throughout your trip.
Student Card: Present it at check-in if you booked as student.
Daypack: Choose a small, ergonomic pack for comfort on hikes.
Water Storage: Carry 1.5-2 liters; consider a Camelbak or similar system.
Hiking Boots: Select lightweight options with good traction.
Headlamp: A must-have for visibility during early or late hours.

FOR YOUR DUFFEL BAG: Horses will transport up to 6 kg of your gear, including your sleeping bag.

Clothing:

2-3 moisture-wicking t-shirts
2-3 pairs of hiking pants
3 sets of undergarments
3 sets of hiking socks
1 fleece and 1 warm down jacket for cold nights
1 rain jacket and pants for unpredictable weather
1 sun hat and 1 wool hat for various temperatures
Comfortable shoes for camp and sturdy walking boots

Gear:

Waterproof gloves (ski gloves are fine)
Waterproof jacket/rain poncho for heavy rain
Quick-dry towel (larger than what’s provided, if preferred)
Small soap bottle for personal hygiene
Battery charger (power sources are scarce on the trail)
Large plastic bags for organizing and protecting items
Sleeping bag (rated for at least -10C for cold nights)
Toiletries:
Sunscreen and face moisturizer for skin protection
Bug spray and hand sanitizer for hygiene
Wet wipes for quick clean-ups
Toothbrush and paste for oral hygiene
Toilet paper for personal use
Personal medication and a basic first aid kit

INSIDE YOUR DAYPACK:

For Machu Picchu, bags over 25L are not permitted inside. Larger bags must be stored outside.
Water: Bring enough for the first morning; subsequent refills will be provided.
Rain gear and fleece: Stay adaptable to changing weather.
Camera or smartphone: Capture the memories.
Music: An iPhone or similar for entertainment.
Hand sanitizer: Maintain cleanliness.
Toilet paper and small plastic bag: Manage waste responsibly.
Extra Money: For additional purchases and gratuities.
Earplugs: For a peaceful rest.

NOTES

Waterproofing: Protect your items from rain and dampness.
Comfort: Wear well-fitted, broken-in footwear to avoid blisters.
Organization: Utilize compartments to keep essentials at hand.

Tour Plan

Day 1: CUSCO, EXPLORATION OF HUMANTAY LAKE AND CAMPING AT SORAYPAMPA

The Salkantay trek to Machu Picchu begins in Cusco with hotel pickups scheduled between 4:30 and 5:00 AM. During this period, the guide will gather participants from their respective hotels in Cusco. After assembling the group, you will depart from Cusco around 5:15 AM, heading towards the town of Mollepata by car, a journey of approximately 2 hours. Upon arrival in Mollepata, you’ll enjoy a hearty breakfast at one of the local restaurants, included in the tour. Typically, the stay in Mollepata, including breakfast and last-minute supplies shopping, lasts about an hour.
Post breakfast, the journey continues by car towards Soraypampa for another hour. Once at Soraypampa, you will meet the team of muleteers and horses, marking the start of the Salkantay trek. Before beginning the hike, all equipment and duffle bags will be handed over to the muleteers and horses. The trek from Soraypampa to Humantay Lagoon starts at an elevation of 3,900 meters and ascends to 4,200 meters, the location of the lagoon. The initial part of the trek involves a gradual ascent for about an hour, followed by a steeper climb for the last hour. The total hike to the lagoon takes approximately 2 hours.
Upon reaching Humantay Lagoon, you’ll have free time to enjoy the breathtaking views, take photos, and listen to the guide’s insights. The stay at the lagoon typically lasts between 1 to 1.5 hours, weather permitting. After visiting the lagoon, the descent begins towards the Quiswarniyoc campsite. This part of the trek involves a 1-hour downhill walk followed by a 45-minute nearly flat trek.
Upon arriving at the Quiswarniyoc campsite, usually around 2:00 PM, you will be treated to a delicious lunch prepared by the cooking team. After lunch, the guide will show you to your respective sleeping quarters for some well-deserved rest. The afternoon, post-lunch, is free of scheduled hikes, allowing you to take short walks and explore the vast Quiswarniyoc area, enjoying the imposing views of Salkantay, which looms directly in front of the campsite. Around 6:00 PM, a warm dinner will be served. After dinner, you will receive important information about Day 02 of the trek, which involves reaching the highest point of the entire route.

SUMMARY FOR DAY 01:

Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Accommodation: Mountain Sky Hut
Difficulty Level: Moderate
Hiking Distance: 10 kilometers (approximately 6 miles)
Estimated Trekking Duration: 5 to 6 hours
Campsite Elevation: 4,000 meters above sea level
Weather Forecast: Expect cold and windy nights during the dry season (May to August), with temperatures potentially dropping to -5 degrees Celsius.
Additional Note: This day serves as a period of training and preparation. It is ideal for acclimatizing in anticipation of Day 02, which poses the most significant challenge of the entire trek.

Day 2: SORAYPAMPA, ASCENT TO THE HIGHEST POINT, SALKANTAY PASS AT 4700 METERS, AND THEN DESCENT TO COLPAPAMPA CAMP

Early Morning Awakening:

The day begins at 5 AM with a coca leaf tea known as “te despierto,” served by the kitchen team to assist with acclimatization to the altitude.
After waking, you have about 30 minutes to get ready and pack for the day.

Breakfast:

Breakfast is typically served at 5:30 AM.
After enjoying your meal, there’s a brief period for last-minute backpack checks and bathroom use before starting the hike to the highest point of the Salkantay trek.

Ascent to Salkantay Pass:

The trek from Quiswarniyoc to the trek’s highest point, the Salkantay Pass at 4700 meters above sea level, begins around 6 AM.
The uphill walk from the camp to the pass takes between 3 to 3.5 hours at a steady pace, with extended breaks every hour for rest and energy replenishment.
The ascent is manageable with proper acclimatization; the main challenge lies in adapting to the altitude.

Time at Salkantay Pass:

Upon reaching the summit, you’ll have time to soak in the stunning views, photograph the mountains, and feel the proximity to Salkantay Mountain.
The guide will often provide insights into the area and may involve you in a local ritual to express gratitude to the Apus, the mountain gods in local beliefs.
You’ll spend about 30 to 45 minutes at the peak.

Descent to Lunch Spot:

The descent starts with a 2-hour trek from the Salkantay Pass to the lunch spot at Wayracmachay.
Here, the kitchen team awaits with a nutritious lunch.

Post-Lunch Rest and Second Descent:

After lunch, there’s a short time for rest, weather permitting.
The final descent segment for the day is from the lunch spot to the second camp at Chawllay.
This descent, lasting between 2.5 to 3 hours, is slightly steep but offers incredible views as you transition from the Andes to the Amazon region.

Arrival at Chawllay:

Upon arrival at Chawllay, the second campsite at 2900 meters, the guide will show you to your accommodations for the night.
The day concludes with a delicious dinner prepared by the cooking team.
This itinerary for Day 02 of the hike is crafted to balance challenging ascents and descents with ample opportunities to appreciate the natural beauty and cultural significance of the Salkantay region.

SUMMARY FOR DAY 02

Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Mountain Sky Hut
Difficulty Level: Challenging
Maximum Altitude: 4,700 meters at Salkantay Pass
Hiking Distance: 22 kilometers (approximately 14 miles)
Estimated Trekking Duration: 9 to 10 hours
Camping Altitude: 2,900 meters
Weather Forecast: Warm and hot at lower elevations.
Additional Note: Day 02 is the most difficult day of the entire trek. However, you will have the entire day to complete it and reach Campsite 02. It is also the most beautiful day due to the stunning views of the mountains and Salkantay.

Day 3: EXPLORATION OF SANTA TERESA VALLEY AND COFFEE TOUR: HYDROELECTRICA TO AGUAS CALIENTES TOWN

Morning Start:

The day begins with an invigorating wake-up tea at 5:30 AM, courtesy of our kitchen team, followed by time for packing and preparing for the day’s adventure.
A hearty breakfast is served at 6:00 AM to fuel you for the trek ahead.

Trek from Chawllay to Lucmabamba:

The hike starts at about 6:30 AM from Chawllay, leading towards our third campsite at Lucmabamba.
This 5-hour journey mainly traverses flat terrain through the Santa Teresa Valley. Along the way, enjoy the rich biodiversity of the area, ending with an enriching coffee tour in Lucmabamba.

Coffee Tour Experience:

In Lucmabamba, immerse yourself in a coffee tour hosted by a local family. Here, you’ll taste the exquisite Santa Teresa coffee and delve into the coffee production process unique to this region.

Lunch at Lucmabamba:

Post the coffee tour, return to the campsite for a delectable lunch, freshly prepared by our talented cooking team.

After Lunch: Journey to Aguas Calientes:

Post-lunch, embark on a 1.5-hour car ride from Lucmabamba to Hydroelectrica.
Upon arrival at Hydroelectrica, prepare for the final 3-hour trek to Aguas Calientes. This scenic walk, alongside the railway line, is facilitated by a pedestrian path, making the journey smoother.
Once in Aguas Calientes, check into your hotel where you can relax, shower, and unwind before dinner.
Enjoy a delightful dinner at 7 PM in a local Aguas Calientes restaurant, followed by finalizing plans for the next day’s visit to Machu Picchu.

SUMMARY FOR DAY 03:

Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Overnight hotel stay in Aguas Calientes
Difficulty Level: Extended day hike
Hiking Distance: Approximately 25 kilometers (about 15 miles)
Estimated Trekking Duration: 9 to 10 hours
Altitude of Aguas Calientes Base Town: 2,000 meters (6,562 feet)
Weather Forecast: Expect warm, hot, and tropical climate conditions
Additional Note: On the third day, you’ll experience a 5-hour morning hike, a refreshing lunch break, a 1.5-hour car ride, and a 3-hour afternoon walk. The day concludes with a comfortable stay at a hotel in Aguas Calientes, gearing you up for the Machu Picchu adventure ahead.

Day 4: EXPLORE MACHU PICCHU AND TRAVEL TO CUSCO - AN UNFORGETTABLE ADVENTURE

The final day of our tour is a thrilling experience:

visiting Machu Picchu, a highly anticipated highlight. We rise at dawn, around 4 a.m., to enjoy breakfast at the hotel. Around 4:30 am, we begin our hike towards the Inca citadel of Machu Picchu. The hike from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu takes about 1.5 hours, blending 30 minutes of a flat trail with an hour’s ascent through historic stone steps leading directly to Machu Picchu’s main entrance.

Alternative Route: Bus to Machu Picchu

For those preferring a less strenuous option, there’s an alternative to take a bus from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu. This convenient option can be booked the night before or on the morning itself. The first buses from Aguas Calientes depart at 5:30 am and cost $12 per trip, taking approximately 25 minutes.

Arrival and Entry Procedures

The goal is to arrive at the Machu Picchu gate by 6:00 am, whether on foot or by bus. At the main control, you must show your Machu Picchu tickets and original passports. If you booked as a student, you also need to present your original student ID.

Machu Picchu Guided Tour

After passing through the controls, we head to the upper part of Machu Picchu for iconic photo opportunities. You’ll have time to capture images and enjoy the breathtaking views. Then, our expert Machu Picchu guide will lead a 2.5-hour tour through the Inca citadel. During this tour, you’ll discover all the secrets and history that make Machu Picchu a world wonder.

Independent Exploration Time

Following the guided tour at Machu Picchu, you will have around 30 minutes of free time to continue exploring the circuit on your own. Remember, the maximum allowed visiting time at Machu Picchu is 3 hours according to park regulations.

Post-Visit Itineraries

After visiting Machu Picchu, the journey continues, but at this point, each group member will follow their own itinerary based on the options they chose at the time of booking. Those who have reserved tickets for Waynapicchu or Machu Picchu Mountain will receive guidance from our guide to access the entry points of these mountains. It’s important to remember that these tickets must be reserved in advance through Machu Picchu Jungle.

After Machu Picchu Return Options to Cusco

Car Return Option: If you choose the car return option, you must start a roughly 3-hour hike from Machu Picchu to Hydroelectric. Be at Hydroelectric by 2:30 pm to take the car that will transport you from Hydroelectric to Cusco. This trip takes about 6 hours, arriving in Cusco around 10 pm, with the final stop at Plaza Regocijo in the center of Cusco city. This return option does not provide enough time for additional hikes to Waynapicchu or Machu Picchu Mountain, as they require about 3 extra hours. To catch the car at 2:30 pm at Hydroelectric, it’s recommended to leave Machu Picchu no later than 11:30 am.
Train Return Option: If you opt for the train return, you’ll need to go back to the town of Aguas Calientes, which can be done by walking for approximately 1.5 hours or taking a 25-minute bus ride for $12. Once in Aguas Calientes, you’ll have time to explore the town and perhaps have lunch, as the last lunch is not included in the tour. Then, head to the train station to catch the 2:30 or 3:30 pm train to Ollantaytambo, a journey of about 1.5 hours. In Ollantaytambo, our transfer service will be waiting to take you back to Cusco by car, a trip of approximately two hours, arriving in Cusco around 6:30 pm. The train option allows for more time at Machu Picchu and is sufficient for the optional mountain hikes. It is faster and more comfortable, making the return to Cusco less tiring.

IMPORTANT NOTE: ITINERARY FOR THE LAST DAY AT MACHU PICCHU

The itinerary for the final day at Machu Picchu is subject to the availability of tickets for Machu Picchu. The proposed schedule works seamlessly with tickets for Machu Picchu for Circuit 02, available for entry times at 6, 7, or 8 am – check availability at www.machupicchu.gob.pe
In the event that tickets for Circuit 02 are not available for the 6, 7, or 8 am entry times at the time of your trek reservation, the itinerary will require adjustments. For alternative itinerary options in such cases, especially if there are no morning entry times available or if Circuit 02 tickets are fully booked, please refer to the following link: Alternative Itinerary Options for Machu Picchu Visit.
This link will guide you through the possible alternatives, ensuring you still have a fulfilling experience at Machu Picchu despite the changes in schedule or circuit availability.