The Classic Salkantay Trek 4 days is a popular hiking trail in Peru that takes you through the stunning Andes Mountains and to the lost city of Machu Picchu. The trek covers a distance of approximately 50 miles over 4 days, and offers breathtaking views of glaciers, valleys, and mountain peaks.

The 4-day Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu covers a total distance of about 30 miles, or 48 kilometers. This route involves walking through varied landscapes, starting from Soraypampa Village and ending at Aguas Calientes town near Machu Picchu.

This trek is quite challenging due to its steep paths, long walking distances each day, and high altitudes. It's suitable for those who are physically fit and have some experience in hiking or are well-prepared for vigorous physical activity over several days.

Here is a list of essential items to pack for the Classic Salkantay Trek 4 days:

• Comfortable hiking shoes: Bring sturdy, waterproof hiking shoes that are broken in and provide good support for your feet.
• Warm sleeping bag: The nights can be cold, so it's important to have a warm sleeping bag to keep you comfortable.
• Waterproof jacket: A waterproof jacket is essential in case of rain or snow.
• Hat and sunglasses: A hat will protect you from the sun, and sunglasses will help reduce the sun's glare and protect your eyes.
• Sunscreen: Apply sunscreen regularly to protect your skin from the sun's harmful rays.
• Refillable water bottle: It's important to stay hydrated during the hike, so bring a refillable water bottle that you can fill up along the way.
• First-aid kit: Pack a basic first-aid kit that includes items such as pain relievers, band-aids, and blister care supplies.
• Headlamp: A headlamp is useful for navigating in the dark and for early morning starts.
• Medications: If you take any medications, bring enough for the entire trek and any extra in case of emergency.
• Warm clothing: Pack warm clothing for the colder mornings and evenings, including layers that can be easily removed as the day warms up.
• Snacks: Pack high-energy snacks such as nuts, dried fruit, and chocolate to keep you fueled during the hike.
• Cash: Bring some cash for any additional expenses, such as souvenirs, snacks, or drinks.

Note: It's also a good idea to check with your tour operator for any specific items they may require you to bring, such as a tent or sleeping mat.

During this trek, you will see the majestic Salkantay Mountain and Humantay Lake, pass through the highest point at Salkantay Pass, and enjoy beautiful views of snow-capped peaks, lush valleys, and tropical forests. The trek concludes with a tour of the ancient Inca site of Machu Picchu, a world heritage site.

The highest point you will reach on the trek is the Salkantay Pass, which is about 15,090 feet (4,600 meters) above sea level. Getting to this point involves a significant elevation gain, which is one of the most challenging parts of the trek due to the thin air at such high altitudes.

You should prepare for a variety of weather conditions on this trek. At higher elevations, the weather can be quite cold and windy, and sometimes even snowy. As you descend, the climate becomes warmer and more humid, especially through the cloud forest. Rain is possible throughout the year, so waterproof clothing is essential.

The camping facilities during the trek are basic. You will sleep in tents that are set up at designated campsites each night. These sites have basic toilet facilities and sometimes a communal area for meals, but don't expect luxury—these are functional setups meant for sleeping and resting.

The food provided during the Salkantay Trek 4 days includes a mix of local Peruvian cuisine and familiar international foods, all chosen to provide the energy needed for hiking. Expect meals like soups, pasta, rice dishes, vegetables, and meats, along with some snacks for energy during the hike.

The daily hiking distance varies but generally involves walking about 10 to 15 miles each day. The longest and most challenging day is when you cross the Salkantay Pass, which requires an early start and involves several hours of hiking.

Yes, there are the Santa Teresa and Aguas Calientes hot springs. In our 4-day itinerary, you have the opportunity to visit the Aguas Calientes hot springs on your own.

To complete the Salkantay trek, you need to be in good physical health and have a decent level of fitness. It is recommended that you prepare with several weeks of cardiovascular exercise, such as running, cycling, or long-distance walking, especially if you are not accustomed to regular physical activity.

The high altitude can lead to problems like altitude sickness. To minimize this, you can spend a few days in Cusco or another high-altitude area to acclimatize before starting the trek. Drink plenty of water, eat light but high-energy meals, and avoid alcohol before and during the trek.

Some of the top trekking companies include TreXperience, Alpaca Expeditions, Salkantay Trekking, Ultimate Trekking, and Llama Path. They are recommended for their experienced guides, good safety standards, environmental awareness, and excellent customer service.

The cost ranges from $500 to $1200, depending on the trekking company, the quality of the gear provided, the size of the group, and the level of comfort requested (such as upgraded meals or extra porters).

Group sizes are usually between 8 and 16 trekkers. This size allows for a more personal experience and ensures that each trekker gets adequate attention and support from the guides.

The trek will expose you to diverse natural scenery—from high mountain landscapes with views of Salkantay Mountain to rich cloud forests full of orchids and ferns. Wildlife sightings may include birds like hummingbirds and the Andean condor, and mammals such as the spectacled bear and various species of deer.

The trek may include visits to local communities where you can observe and participate in traditional Andean practices, such as textile weaving or farming. These interactions provide insight into the local way of life and contribute to a deeper understanding of the region's culture.

Conservation practices include sticking to established trails to prevent erosion, managing waste properly at campsites, and educating trekkers on the importance of leaving no trace to preserve the ecosystem.

Yes, in case of an emergency, the guides are trained to initiate evacuation procedures, which may include porter assistance or a horseback ride to the nearest road. Evacuation plans are in place to transport ill or injured trekkers to the nearest medical facility quickly.

To book the Salkantay Trail, we require an initial deposit of $200. This deposit is non-refundable as it is used to secure Machu Picchu tickets, train reservations, and hotel bookings. In the case of a cancellation, we will refund all payments minus the initial deposit, provided that the cancellation is made several weeks in advance.