How to Plan Your Short Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu in 4 Days

If you’re looking for an adventure of a lifetime, the Short Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu in 4 days is the perfect trek for you. This trek offers breathtaking views of snow-capped mountains, cloud forests, and various wildlife. This tour is perfect for those who want to experience a challenging and thrilling adventure with a shorter amount of time. In this blog post, we’ll guide you on how to plan your Short Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu in 4 days.

Overview

The Short Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu in 4 days is a private service offered by Viator. During this trek, you’ll hike for four days, cross high mountain passes, and get a chance to explore the fascinating ruins of Machu Picchu. This tour takes you through a trail that combines nature, culture, and stunning landscapes in one of Peru’s most remote regions.

What’s Included

The tour includes the following:

– Private transportation from Cusco to Mollepata (Challacancha) and a return bus from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu
– A professional guide who speaks English and Spanish
– Entry ticket to Machu Picchu
– Sleeping bags (available for rent)
– Entrance to Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain (depending on availability)

How to Prepare for Your Trek

Before embarking on your adventure, make sure you’re well prepared for the challenging trek.

Training

The Salkantay Trek is a challenging trek that requires a good level of fitness. Before the trek, it’s advisable to do some physical training to prepare yourself for long hours of hiking. Recommended exercises include cardio, strength training, and endurance exercises.

Acclimatization

Given the altitude, it’s important to acclimate yourself to the high altitude of Cusco before the trek. Spend 2-3 days in Cusco to allow your body to adjust to the altitude. If you can, try to do some day hikes in the nearby areas to get yourself ready for the trek.

Packing List

Ensure you have the following items on your packing list:

– A comfortable and durable backpack
– A warm sleeping bag
– Hiking boots or shoes with good traction
– A waterproof jacket and pants
– Warm clothes (fleece or down jacket)
– Comfortable hiking clothes (long pants and shirts)
– Sun protection (hat, sunglasses, sunscreen)
– Insect repellent
– Headlamp or flashlight
– Water bottles or hydration system
– Snacks (dried fruits, nuts, energy bars)
– Cash in local currency for snacks, tips or extra expenses

Itinerary

Here is a brief itinerary of the Short Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu in 4 days.

Day 1: Cusco – Mollepata (Challacancha) – Humantay Lake – Soraypampa
– An early morning departure from Cusco and arrive in Mollepata (Challacancha) after four hours.
– Start the trek towards the Humantay Lake (1.5 hours).
– Lunch in Soraypampa.
– In the afternoon, hike to Salkantaypampa where dinner and overnight camping are located.

Day 2: Soraypampa – Salkantay Pass – Chaullay
– After breakfast, start the trek to Salkantay Pampa.
– Hike until the Salkantay Pass (4630m).
– Descend down to Chaullay for lunch.
– Overnight camping in Colcampata.

Day 3: Colcapata – Llactapata – Aguas Calientes
– After breakfast, start trekking to Llactapata.
– Enjoy the incredible views of Machu Picchu from afar.
– We continue our trek to the hydroelectric station and have lunch.
– In the afternoon, take the train to Aguas Calientes.
– Overnight at Hotel in Aguas Calientes.

Day 4: Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu – Cusco
– An early morning breakfast at the hotel.
– Take the tourist bus up to Machu Picchu just to enjoy the sunrise and explore with your guide for two hours.
– Take the bus back down to Aguas Calientes where you take the train back to Ollantaytambo.
– Upon your arrival at the station, transfer back to Cusco.

Booking

Booking the Short Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu in 4 days is easy. Follow the link and book the tour here: book the tour here.

Conclusion

The Short Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu in 4 days is a thrilling adventure that takes you through stunning landscapes, high mountain passes, and ruins of Machu Picchu. By following the tips and itinerary outlined above, you’ll be well prepared for this exciting adventure. Book your tour today and don’t miss out on this unforgettable experience.

An Insider’s Guide to Cusco, Peru

Cusco is a city that beautifully combines the ancient and modern. While it is known for being the gateway to iconic Machu Picchu, it has much more to offer. In this insider’s guide, we will take you beyond the usual tourist spots and highlight some unique experiences that will make your visit truly unforgettable.

Local Attractions

While Machu Picchu is undoubtedly a must-visit, Cusco has several other hidden gems that are equally fascinating. One such place is the San Pedro Market, where locals come to buy all kinds of products ranging from fruits, vegetables, and grains to clothing and handicrafts. You’ll also find unique food stalls and traditional Peruvian medicinal herbs that you won’t find anywhere else. Another spot that is often overlooked is the Inkan Museum, which houses an impressive collection of artifacts from the Inca Empire and has interactive exhibits that give visitors a glimpse into the region’s rich history.

Dining Spots

Peruvian cuisine is diverse and delectable, with influences from Spanish, Andean, African, and Asian cultures. If you’re looking to sample some local favorites, head to La Chomba Restaurant, where you can try classic dishes like ceviche, chicharron, or ají de gallina. To get a taste of the local street food scene, check out Calle del Medio, a narrow lane packed with vendors selling everything from roasted guinea pig to fresh churros. You can also sign up for a cooking class to learn how to cook traditional dishes like lomo saltado or quinoa soup and bring home a glimpse of Peruvian food culture.

Cultural Experiences

Cusco is steeped in tradition, and there are several ways to immerse yourself in the local culture. Attend a coca leaf reading ceremony with a shaman to learn about the spiritual beliefs of the Andean people and receive blessings for your journey. For a more lively experience, catch a traditional Andean music and dance show at the Centro Qosqo de Arte Nativo or the Inka Grill. You can also participate in a textile workshop, where you’ll learn how to weave fabrics and take home a unique souvenir.

Local History

Cusco has a rich and fascinating history, from its days as the capital of the Inca Empire to its current status as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. One interesting story is that of the twelve-cornered stone, a solid piece of granite with twelve perfectly carved angles that can be found in one of the city’s oldest streets. Legend has it that it was a secret entrance to the Inca Roca Palace and its intricate geometry was meant to withstand even the strongest earthquakes. Another compelling tale is that of the Plaza de Armas, where Spanish conquistadors built a cathedral over the remains of Suntur Wasi, the Inca temple dedicated to the sun god. The plaza’s architecture and design reflect the city’s complex and intertwined history.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions

If you’re looking for something truly unique and off the beaten path, consider hiking the Rainbow Mountain. This stunning peak gets its name from the colorful stripes of sedimentary rock that make up its surface and is a testament to the Andean region’s geological diversity. Another offbeat activity is visiting the Cusco Planetarium, where you can learn about the Inca’s astronomical knowledge, observe the constellations, and even try traditional Andean stargazing techniques.

In conclusion, Cusco is a city that has something for everyone, whether you’re a history buff, foodie, or adventure seeker. Our insider’s guide has provided some unique perspectives to help you make the most of your visit to this stunning destination.