Salkantay Trek Short 4 Days

Not Included

Services Not Included in the Salkantay Trek Package and Optional Expenses

We detail below the services and expenses not included in the Salkantay Trek package. These are optional and can be paid directly on-site. Typically, the local community provides these services, and they are common across all companies operating the Salkantay Trek. Our goal is to offer clear and accurate information.

• 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 cost is 10 dollars for the entire route.
• 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 and use the hot showers at the Aguas Calientes hostel on day 03. 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 CHOQUEQUIRAO WASI 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.

hat to Pack

Packing efficiently for the 4-day Salkantay trek is crucial for a comfortable and enjoyable experience. Here’s a detailed packing list to guide you:

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 7 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.

Following this comprehensive list will help ensure a memorable and comfortable experience during your Salkantay trek.

Pricing

At CHOQUEQUIRAO WASIs, we are committed to providing fair and transparent pricing for the Salkantay trek. Here’s what you need to know:

• Fair Pricing: Our prices are reasonable, reflecting the true value and offering a quality experience without any hidden costs.
• Group Tours: You’ll join a group of 12 to 14 people, with a maximum of 16. This ensures lower rates per person and an enriching shared experience.
• Guaranteed Departure: Regardless of the group’s size, even if it’s just 2 or 3 people, your tour is guaranteed. This offers you security and flexibility in planning.
• Flexible Booking: You can book for any available date and be part of a group. This flexibility allows you to plan your trip according to your needs.
• Differentiated Pricing: We offer varied rates for adults, students, and different return options to Cusco (by car or train) after visiting Machu Picchu. You can choose the option that best fits your preferences and budget.

Our approach is transparent and traveler-focused, ensuring you receive exceptional service at a fair price. With Machu Picchu Reservations, your adventure on the Inca Jungle Trail will be memorable and accessible.

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PRICES: SALKANTAY TREK 4 DAYS TO MACHU PICCHU – GROUP SERVICE – SEASONS 2023 AND 2024

SALKANTAY TREK with Return by CAR:

• Adult: $250 USD per person
• Student: $230 USD per person (Valid student ID required)
• Child (Minor): $230 USD per person (For visitors aged 8 to 17 years)

SALKANTAY TREK with Return by TRAIN:

• Adult: $320 USD per person
• Student: $300 USD per person (Valid student ID required)
• Child (Minor): $300 USD per person (For visitors aged 8 to 17 years)

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IMPORTANT CONSIDERATION: Understanding the Difference Between Returning by Car and by Train 

• Train Option: Depart from Aguas Calientes between 2:30-3:20 pm (subject to availability). After a 1.5-hour train ride to Ollantaytambo, a transfer awaits to take you back to Cusco over the next 2 hours, arriving around 6:30 pm.
• Car Option: Begin a 3-hour hike from Machu Picchu to the hydroelectric station by 11 am at the latest to catch the 3 pm car for a 6-7 hour journey back to Cusco, arriving around 10 pm. Both options conclude at Plaza Regocijo.

Select the option that aligns with your preferences, ensuring a remarkable journey through the stunning landscapes of Machu Picchu.

Quality and Value: Our prices reflect our dedication to offering a top-tier experience, complete with knowledgeable guides, comprehensive logistical support, and all necessary permits for a seamless and profound Salkantay trek.

Flexible Departure Dates: We provide the option to start the tour on any day of the week, depending on permit availability from the government. Please note that permits are only necessary for the trek’s start date.

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STUDENT PRICE

HOW TO ACCESS THE STUDENT PRICE FOR A TOUR TO MACHU PICCHU?

The Peruvian government offers discounts for students on entrance tickets to Machu Picchu. Consequently, in our tours to Machu Picchu, we provide a reduced rate for students. To qualify for this special rate, you must meet the following requirements:

• Student Age: You must be under 25 years old at the time of your visit to Machu Picchu. This age limit is aimed at benefiting undergraduate students.
• Material and Format of the Student Card: The card must be a physical plastic document, similar to a credit card, with all the required information printed on it. Cards made of other materials or with information added via stickers or not printed are not accepted.
• Required Information on the Card: The card must include the following printed information: details of the university, personal information of the student, the student’s photograph, and a validity date not exceeding one year from the date of your visit. For example, if you plan to visit in 2024, the card should not expire before 2025 and must be valid during the visit.
• Note on the ISIC Card: Although the International Student Identity Card (ISIC) is recognized in many countries, it is not accepted by the Peruvian government for student discounts at Machu Picchu. Just as a passport cannot be replaced by any other type of identification in international procedures, the student card cannot be substituted by an ISIC or any other document for discounts in Peru.

The policy of the Peruvian government is stringent regarding the accreditation of students. It is imperative to present a card that fulfills these criteria to be eligible for student-priced tickets because, upon entering Machu Picchu, you will be required to show the physical student card. If you do not meet these requirements upon arrival at Machu Picchu, there is a significant risk of being denied entry and having to pay the full ticket price, depending on availability. Therefore, ensuring that your student card adheres to Peruvian regulations is crucial before booking your tour to as student Machu Picchu.