Snow covering the colorful mountains near the Rainbow Mountain of Peru

The Spirit of Machu Picchu

7 Days & 6 Nights
Starting from US$995 per person
Accommodation Icon
Camps & Hotels Accommodation
Group Size Icon
Up to 12 People Group Size
Max. Altitude Icon
5,100 m / 16,732 ft Max. Altitude
Difficulty Icon
Moderate to Challenging Difficulty

Feel the Spirit of the Andes

Cusco City - Sacred Valley - Machu Picchu - Ausangate Trek - Rainbow Mountain
Accommodation Icon
Camps & Hotels Accommodation
Group Size Icon
Up to 12 People Group Size
Max. Altitude Icon
5,100 m / 16,732 ft Max. Altitude
Difficulty Icon
Moderate to Challenging Difficulty

This package boasts the best of the best when it comes to the Peruvian Andes. It combines the most amazing places in Cusco: Cusco City, Sacred Valley, Machu Picchu, Ausangate, and Rainbow Mountain. If you want to visit all these places when you come to Peru, why not combine them in a fantastic 7-day adventure where every last detail is planned for you?

Recharge yourself mentally and physically with the most powerful energy points in the Cusco region. Immense sacred glaciers like the imposing Apu Ausangate, turquoise lakes, wild animals, and the captivating Rainbow Mountain are the perfect complement to the ancient Inca city of Machu Picchu. This trip really has it all for you to see everything special about Cusco.

Machu Picchu and Rainbow Mountain Vinicunca Peru Adventure in 7 Days Map Machu Picchu and Rainbow Mountain Tour 7 Days Map
  • Overview
  • Itinerary
  • Inclusions
  • Before You Go
  • Packing List
  • Pricing
  • Enquire Now
  Overview

Do you only have a week in Cusco but want to see as much as possible? Do you love learning about ancient cultures and enjoy immersing yourself in local wildlife and seeing some of Mother Nature’s most magnificent creations? You don’t need to look any further. Our 6-day epic trip combines visits to the most important sites in Cusco City, the Sacred Valley of the Incas, Machu Picchu, Ausangate, and Rainbow Mountain. Whether traveling as a couple or in a group, you can join us on this adventure of a lifetime.

Feel the call of the Incas as you tour the majestic city of Cusco. Get to know the monumental agricultural laboratory of Moray with its circular terraces and the thousands of small salt pools of Maras. Observe fertile cornfields in the middle of gigantic mountains while visiting the Sacred Valley of the Incas.

If that wasn’t already enough, you’ll be amazed by the genius of the ancient Peruvian architecture in the city of Machu Picchu, considered one of the Seven Wonders of the Modern World and UNESCO World Heritage Site. To end this incredible trip, you can walk via the grand Apu Ausangate to the Vinicunca Mountain, also known as Rainbow Mountain or Mountain of 7 Colors, due to the stripes of colors that its surface exhibits as a result of its complex mineral composition.

Don’t wait any longer to embark on this once-in-a-lifetime adventure. The Andes are calling you to sweep you off your feet, share their fantastic energy, and show you some spectacular scenery.

Itinerary at a Glance

  • Day 01

    Welcome to Cusco - Half-Day Cusco City Tour

    We’ll collect you from the airport and take you to rest in your hotel this morning. In the afternoon, enjoy a Cusco City Tour of all the important places.

  • Day 02

    Cusco | Chinchero - Moray - Maras Salt Mines - Urubamba - Ollantaytambo - Aguas Calientes

    Head out to the Sacred Valley this morning and stop at Chinchero, Moray, and Maras before taking the train from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes. Spend the night in a comfortable hotel.

  • Day 03

    Aguas Calientes | Machu Picchu - Ollantaytambo - Cusco

    Enjoy the entire morning exploring Machu Picchu on a guided tour of approximately two hours. Take the train to Ollantaytambo this afternoon and travel back to Cusco on our transport.

  • Day 04

    Cusco | Upis - Arapa Pass - Hatun Pucacocha

    Start your 3-day trek today and soak up stunning views of Andean landscapes. This afternoon, enjoy spending time by lagoons and waterfalls.

  • Day 05

    Hatun Pucacocha | Puca Pass - Anantapata - Warmisaya - Surinecocha

    Continue hiking through the mountains and get up close to Apu Ausangate. This afternoon, get your first glimpse of Rainbow Mountain before heading to camp in Surinecocha.

  • Day 06

    Surinecocha | Rainbow Mountain - Llacto - Cusco

    Wake up early to beat the crowds at Rainbow Mountain. Learn all about the site and then head down for lunch. Our transport will take you back to Cusco.

  • Day 07

    Cusco - Cusco’s Airport (or Bus Station)

    Bid farewell to the capital of the Inca Empire as we take you to the bus station or airport for your transport home.

What's it like

Highlights

  • The Ausangate Trek takes you to the fifth-highest mountain in Peru. You’ll see through some of the country’s wildest scenery, the perfect opportunity for travelers to get off the beaten track.
  • Enjoy the pleasant climate of the Sacred Valley while observing fertile cornfields and the peaceful lifestyle in the area.
  • Witness the spectacular site of Moray and try to resolve its mysteries.
  • Tour the highest salt mines in the world in the middle of the mountains at Maras.
  • Take a relaxing train ride to the cloud forest in the company of the immense Vilcanota River.
  • Walk the ancient stone streets of one of the New 7 Wonders of the World, the archaeological sanctuary of Machu Picchu, at dawn.
  • Join a breathtaking trek through the Andean Mountains as you cross epic landscapes and summit gorgeous mountain paths.
  • End your adventure with a visit to the beautifully unique Rainbow Mountain.

Why Travel with us

  Itinerary
Day 01

Welcome to Cusco - Half-Day Cusco City Tour

Highlight of the day: Visiting the most important historical sites in Cusco City

Tour the Capital of the Inca Empire

Accommodation Icon
Hotel Accommodation
Min. Elevation Icon
3,400 m / 11,154 ft Min. Elevation
Highest Elevation Icon
3,800 m / 12,467 ft Highest Elevation
Accommodation Elevation Icon
3,400 m / 11,155 ft Accommodation Elevation

We’ll meet you at the airport this morning to take you to your hotel in Cusco. You’ll have time to rest after the flight, acclimate a little, or try some coca tea! After lunch, we’ll collect you and take you on a wonderful Cusco City Tour of all the important places.

In the afternoon, you’ll visit Qorikancha, the Cusco Cathedral, Sacsayhuaman, Qenqo, Puca Pucara, and Tambomachay. You’ll learn all about the Incas and what these important sites mean. Finally, we’ll take you back to your hotel for a leisurely evening to spend as you wish.

A representative of Salkantay Trekking will be waiting for you at the Cusco Airport to take you directly to your accommodation. Cusco is located at an altitude of 3,400 m / 11,155 ft, so you’ll need some time to acclimatize. We recommend spending the morning relaxing in your hotel and perhaps sipping on some coca tea.

After lunch, we’ll pick you up from your hotel to explore Cusco on an afternoon City Tour. Our tour begins in the fascinating Qorikancha, or Temple of the Sun, the most important Inca place in Cusco. While you take your time to marvel at the exquisite architecture of the place, our guide will share a bit of the history of the Incas.

We’ll then continue to the Plaza de Armas (Main Square) to visit the Cusco Cathedral, famous for its 300 paintings from the “Escuela Cusqueña.” The Plaza de Armas is also a wonderful place to sit and immerse yourself in the local atmosphere.

Later, we’ll visit the impressive Inca fortress of Sacsayhuaman in northern Cusco. This place features gigantic rocks weighing hundreds of tons. Ancient Inca architects cut and polished these giant rocks to build zig-zag walls spanning hundreds of meters. Even though only a small portion of the original site remains, the immense dimensions of Sacsayhuaman continue to surprise its visitors.

Later, we’ll continue to the Qenqo temple, a giant rock formation with artificial tunnels, one of which forms an amphitheater. Its original purpose has been lost over time, but most experts agree that the area was used to worship the sun, moon, and stars, very important bodies in Inca culture. We’ll then go to Puca Pucara, a site the Incas used as a military control center.

Our tour ends in Tambomachay, an Inca archaeological site that boasts a series of aqueducts and channels with two water fountains that still run spectacularly in front of your eyes.

At the end of the day, we’ll take you to the door of your hotel to enjoy a relaxing night and some dinner in a place of your choice.

Day 02

Cusco | Chinchero - Moray - Maras Salt Mines - Urubamba - Ollantaytambo - Aguas Calientes

Highlight of the day: Unraveling mysteries at Moray and staring in awe over the Maras Salt Mines.

Visit the Most Impressive Sites in the Sacred Valley

Meals Icon
Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner Meals
Accommodation Icon
Hotel Accommodation
Min. Elevation Icon
2,040 m / 6,693 ft Min. Elevation
Highest Elevation Icon
3,762 m / 12,342 ft Highest Elevation
Accommodation Elevation Icon
2,040 m / 6,693 ft Accommodation Elevation

We’ll pick you up after breakfast this morning and go to the Sacred Valley of the Incas. First, you’ll stop at Chinchero to learn about their impressive textiles at a local craft center. Then, we’ll continue to the archaeological site of Moray and to the Maras Salt Mines, both incredible and unique places. We’ll then head to Urubamba for lunch.

In the afternoon, we’ll explore the last living Inca town of Ollantaytambo and board the train to Aguas Calientes. We’ll travel along the tracks to the town at the base of Machu Picchu, where you’ll spend the night in a comfortable hotel.

We'll pick you up from your hotel in Cusco at 07:30 a.m. after you’ve had a tasty breakfast. We'll head to our first stop in Chinchero, a beautiful place known for its impressive landscapes and the quality of its textile art. We'll visit a local craft house, where you'll learn some textile techniques inherited from generation to generation. The very high quality of Chinchero fabrics makes this an ideal opportunity to shop for a gift for someone back home.

As we continue our journey, you'll witness endless farming fields, small traditional communities, and huge snow-capped mountain peaks. We’ll then stop at Moray to visit its spectacular circular terraces. Studies indicate that Moray was a genuine agricultural experimental site where crops from different altitudes and climates could be grown, even though it looks like something almost extraterrestrial.

Next, we'll go to the Maras Salt Mines, an extraordinary site operated since pre-Inca times. Be amazed by the more than 3,000 salt pools flooded daily by water inside the earth.

At noon, we'll head to Urubamba to enjoy a well-deserved lunch. We'll continue our tour of the Sacred Valley and arrive at Ollantaytambo, considered by many to be the last and only living Inca city to this day. Its streets maintain the original layout of the ancient Peruvians, and the water still runs through the canals found next to the main roads. It’s a quaint and lovely place to visit.

After touring this picturesque historic place, we'll go to the Ollantaytambo station and begin our train ride through the last portion of the Sacred Valley. It'll be an hour and forty-five minutes next to the roaring Vilcanota River.

We'll arrive at Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu Town), an intense miniature metropolis where you'll spend the night in a comfortable hotel.

Day 03

Aguas Calientes | Machu Picchu - Ollantaytambo - Cusco

Highlight of the day: Without a doubt, discovering Machu Picchu’s secrets and feeling the energy of the place.

Explore the Lost City of the Incas

Meals Icon
Breakfast Meals
Accommodation Icon
Hotel Accommodation
Difficulty Icon
Easy Difficulty
Activity Duration Icon
2-3 hours exploring Machu Picchu Activity Duration
Machu Picchu Site Elevation Icon
2,430 m / 7,972 ft Machu Picchu Site Elevation
Optional Activities (Difficulty - Duration) Icon
Moderate to Challenging Optional Activities (Difficulty - Duration)
Huayna Picchu Mountain Elevation Icon
2,720 m / 8,924 ft Huayna Picchu Mountain Elevation
Machu Picchu Mountain Elevation Icon
3,000 m / 9,843 ft Machu Picchu Mountain Elevation
Accommodation Elevation Icon
3,400 m / 11,155 ft Accommodation Elevation

Perhaps the most exciting day is upon us. You’ll need to wake up early to head to Machu Picchu early and beat the large crowds. You’ll enjoy the sunrise and a guided tour of approximately two hours to all the important sites. Then, you can climb one of the additional mountains if you booked your tickets in advance. You’ll need to make your way back down a little after midday.

Once back in Aguas Calientes, you’ll find somewhere for lunch and board the train to Ollantaytambo. From there, our transport will be waiting to take you back to the door of your hotel in Cusco.

Today’s to visit one of the Wonders of the World! You’ll need to wake up before dawn to enjoy breakfast in the hotel before you board the bus in Aguas Calientes at 5:30 a.m. The journey takes around 25 minutes and will take you to the entrance of Machu Picchu.

We'll be one of the first groups to arrive so you can observe the World Wonder without all the annoying tourist crowds. As soon as you step inside, the immense energy of the site will wash over you. This pre-Hispanic marvel of architecture and engineering is built on the top of a mountain in complete harmony with Mother Nature.

You’ll explore the most important nooks in the Citadel with your guide for about 2 hours. You’ll learn about the history, discovery, and recent theories of this extraordinary Inca City, which holds the title of South America’s Leading Cultural Destination. Visitors are always impressed by Machu Picchu, so you won’t be the exception. After the tour, and if you have tickets, you can also climb the famous Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountains for spectacular views over the sanctuary.

At the end of this unforgettable tour, you can choose one of the many restaurants in Aguas Calientes for lunch (not included in the tour). Then, depending on your train’s departure time, you'll return to the Ollantaytambo station, where our transport will take you to the door of your hotel in Cusco.

Day 04

Cusco | Upis - Arapa Pass - Hatun Pucacocha

Highlight of the day: Feeling one with nature and observing gorgeous landscapes.

Embark on Your Adventure Through Stunning Andean Landscapes

Meals Icon
Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner Meals
Accommodation Icon
Camp Accommodation
Difficulty Icon
Moderate to Challenging Difficulty
Walking Distance Icon
17 km / 10.56 mi Walking Distance
Walking Time Icon
9 hours Walking Time
Starting Elevation Icon
4,250 m / 13,944 ft Starting Elevation
Min. Elevation Icon
4,250 m / 13,944 ft Min. Elevation
Highest Elevation Icon
4,800 m / 15,748 ft Highest Elevation
Campsite Elevation Icon
4,500 m / 14,764 ft Campsite Elevation

Today, you’ll embark on the 3-day trek to Ausangate. We’ll pick you up early to head to Upis and begin our hike. This morning, you’ll enjoy some truly stunning scenery and observe the Apu Ausangate, who’ll accompany us the whole way. We’ll have lunch at the Upis thermal baths.

You’ll witness more incredible landscapes this afternoon and perhaps even see a condor mid-flight. We’ll get to our camp at Pucacocha and spend the afternoon exploring the lagoons and waterfalls in the area. You’ll enjoy a tasty dinner before heading to bed.

We'll start this adventure to the high Andes early in the morning. We'll pick you up from your hotel at 5:00 a.m. and go on our transport to the starting point of our trek in the small town of Upis (4,250 m / 13,944 ft). On the way, you'll witness picturesque towns and beautiful lagoons in the Vilcanota Valley.

After breakfast, we’ll start walking on a plain facing directly to the impressive Ausangate glacier (6,372 m / 20,905 ft)—the highest peak in Cusco. As we continue, we'll come across local people wearing their beautiful and colorful traditional clothes. Herds of llamas and alpacas will also accompany us along the way. We'll arrive in around 3 hours at the thermal baths of Upis (4,400 m / 14,436 ft) to enjoy our lunch.

After a filling meal in the middle of the mountains, we’ll continue walking for two-and-a-half hours in a beautiful high Andean valley towards the Arapa Pass (4,800 m / 15,748 ft). The spectacular Ausangate mountain will be by our side the entire way.

From the summit, the beauty of the landscape gets even more majestic. You'll be able to see the sheer size of the mountain range and, if you're lucky, even glimpse the flight of the largest flying bird in the world, the condor. Our knowledgeable guide will also share fascinating information about the local flora and fauna

Then, we'll descend for two-and-a-half hours until the crystalline multi-colored lagoon of Yanacocha (black lagoon) and another hour to reach Hatun Pucacocha (red lagoon). We’ll set camp here and have time to take a re-energizing nap.

In the afternoon, you’ll get to explore the vicinity of the lakes. As always, before you sleep, you’ll enjoy a nutritious dinner cooked by our talented chef.

Day 05

Hatun Pucacocha | Puca Pass - Anantapata - Warmisaya - Surinecocha

Highlight of the day: Getting up close to Ausangate and seeing the sunset near Rainbow Mountain.

Feel the Energy Radiating from Apu Ausangate

Meals Icon
Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner Meals
Accommodation Icon
Camp Accommodation
Difficulty Icon
Moderate Difficulty
Walking Distance Icon
10 km / 6.21 mi Walking Distance
Walking Time Icon
6 - 7 hours Walking Time
Min. Elevation Icon
4,500 m / 14,764 ft Min. Elevation
Highest Elevation Icon
4,985 m / 16,335 ft Highest Elevation
Campsite Elevation Icon
4,800 m / 15,748 ft Campsite Elevation

You’re in for more amazing sights today. You’ll hike through green valleys and past snowy peaks to come face to face with Apu Ausangate. You’ll observe llamas and alpacas grazing and then get your first glimpse of Rainbow Mountain. We’ll stop for lunch in Anantapata.

In the afternoon, we’ll get some opportunities for fantastic photos before we ascend to Warmisaya Pass. We’ll then descend to our camp at Surinecocha Lagoon to enjoy a pretty sunset, a happy hour, and dinner.

There’s nothing better for your body than waking up to a hot herbal tea of coca leaves—this fantastic plant has been used since Inca times to give you an energy boost. Get up early to start one of the most beautiful days of the entire excursion. Today, you’ll be in awe at the stunning views of the snow-capped mountains and deep green valleys.

After a hearty breakfast to get you going, we’ll hike up to Puca Pass (4,870 m / 15,978 ft). You’ll feel the impressive presence of the Apu Ausangate and take photos of its beautiful turquoise lagoons. Once you reach the top, you’ll come face to face with the gigantic Apu Ausangate (6,384 m / 20,945 ft) right in front of you. You’ll also observe the extended beauty of the Chilca Valley, where llamas and alpacas will be grazing peacefully. From this opening, you’ll already see the start of the Rainbow Mountain range with its striking, colorful stripes.

After taking some stunning photos, we’ll continue with a gradual descent for an hour and a half to our lunch point located in Anantapata (4,750 m / 15,584 ft). Once we’re full and rested, we’ll continue with an ascent to Warmisaya Pass (4,985 m / 16,355 ft). From there, you’ll feel like a bird as you observe the vastness of the horizon.

We only have to descend for an hour to the Surinecocha lagoon, where our camp for the night will be waiting for you. In our camp, we’ll enjoy happy hour (drinks and snacks) and then dinner before you head to your cozy beds.

Day 06

Surinecocha | Rainbow Mountain - Llacto - Cusco

Highlight of the day: Hiking to Rainbow Mountain and enjoying the site before other visitors arrive.

Get Up Close to the Rainbow Mountain of Cusco

Meals Icon
Breakfast and Lunch Meals
Accommodation Icon
Hotel Accommodation
Difficulty Icon
Moderate Difficulty
Walking Distance Icon
6.5 km / 4.04 mi Walking Distance
Walking Time Icon
3 hours Walking Time
Min. Elevation Icon
4,630 m / 15,190 ft Min. Elevation
Highest Elevation Icon
5,100 m / 16,732 ft Highest Elevation
Accommodation Elevation Icon
3,400 m / 11,155 ft Accommodation Elevation

After breakfast, we’ll hike to Rainbow Mountain and get there before the crowds. This way, you’ll get better photos and enjoy the place peacefully. It’ll then be time to hike to Llacto and catch the transport to our lunch spot. In the afternoon, we’ll drive back to Cusco, admiring the last sights and mountain views from the window as the sun goes down. We’ll drop you off at your hotel in Cusco.

After a tasty breakfast at 4:00 a.m., we will walk for 2 hours to Rainbow Mountain to contemplate this colorful valley lit by dawn. You’ll arrive early enough and before the tourist crowds and have plenty of time to enjoy this paradise for about an hour.

Our expert guide will take you directly to the key places to get the best pictures and explain in detail why this mountain has such unique colors. Rainbow Mountain is one of the most amazing places in South America and one of Peru's main natural attractions. The only other colored mountains can be found in China.

Once we get to the Rainbow Mountain viewpoint, you'll have enough time to take pictures of this prestigious geological phenomenon.

Once we get to the Rainbow Mountain viewpoint, you'll have enough time to take pictures of this prestigious geological phenomenon. You’ll also see the Ausangate Mountain in the distance. Then, we'll descend to Llacto for an hour, where our transport awaits for a drive to a local restaurant. There, we'll satisfy our appetite with a local lunch.

As you finish the day, you can enjoy the beautiful Andean landscape at sunset from the transport while you return to the city. We'll arrive in Cusco at approximately 6:00 p.m. and drop you off at your hotel for a well-deserved rest.

Day 07

Cusco - Cusco’s Airport (or Bus Station)

Highlight of the day: Bid Farewell to Cusco.

Say Goodbye to Imperial Cusco

Your amazing trip to Cusco is over for now, but we’ll be waiting for you to visit again one day! Our team will transfer you to the airport or bus station for you to continue your vacation or head home. We hope to see you again soon!

Today, you’ll wake up, have breakfast, and pack your bags, as it’s time to say goodbye to the imperial city of Cusco for now. We’ll organize a time to collect you and take you to the airport or bus station to continue your vacation or return home.

This isn’t a forever farewell, and we’re sure you’ll be longing to come back to relive all the special moments, learn more about the ancient city and cultures, and try out more of the excellent restaurants and their delicious cuisine. So, it’s not goodbye, but rather see you soon!

  Inclusions

At Salkantay Trekking, we specify the included and non-included services under all the tour itineraries listed on our website. We take care of all the logistics, but please pay attention to the details to avoid missing anything. Some items may be different for specific programs, so please read carefully before booking with us.

What Is Included?

Permits & Entrance Tickets

  • Entrance Ticket to Machu Picchu Archaeological Site

  • Entrance for the Ausangate Trek
  • Entrance for the Rainbow Mountain

High Quality Service & Safety

  • Pre-departure Briefing - The day before the trip, at 5:00 pm you will meet your trekking guide.

    You’ll meet your trekking guide and group in our office for an orientation before your trek. There, we’ll provide you with the duffle bags, which our horses will carry. The meeting will be at 5:00 pm the evening before the trip begins.

    One member of our staff will be waiting for you at the airport (or bus station) to welcome you and check your itinerary details.

  • Experienced Tour Guide - All our guides have professionalism, experience, responsibility, seriousness and passion, which will make your trip safe and comfortable.

    English and spanish speaking official tour guide. All our guides are graduates of the professional career of Tourism of the National University San Antonio Abad of Cusco. We choose them for their professionalism, experience, responsibility, seriousness, unbridled passion for exploring, and sincere desire to proudly share in our culture and history. He or she will keep you safe, sound, and comfortable on your trek so that you can enjoy your time worry-free!

    • Bilingual Tour Guide in group service or shared (English and Spanish)
  • Private Camping Equipment

    You’ll have spacious dining and kitchen tents where you can enjoy your food without problems. In addition, tables, chairs, and cooking equipment (all carried by our horses).

  • Portable Travel Toilet
  • Duffle Bag (Day 3-5)

    On the trek, you can carry your personal belongings up to a maximum weight of 7 kg / 15.4 lb (this weight includes your sleeping bag).

  • Medical Kit or First AID Kit - Our guides are trained to deal with basic emergencies.

    All Salkantay Trekking guides have received specialized training in first aid. We hold mandatory training sessions with our guides every February. Your guide will always carry a first aid kit to face basic emergencies (altitude sickness, travelers' diarrhea, cuts, scrapes, etc.) as well as oxygen. If necessary, we’ll evacuate you from the path as quickly as possible and ensure that you arrive at a clinic for treatment.

  • Extras Included in our Service - You’ll receive a cover to protect your backpack on the road and a rain poncho.

    We believe that attention to small details is what sets us apart from other local companies. You’ll receive a small sleeping pillow, a cover to protect your backpack on the road, and a rain poncho.

  • Hiking Equipment

    All our travelers need a sleeping bag to camp. In addition, inflatable mattresses and walking sticks (with rubber tips) are highly recommended. If you do not have them, don’t worry, your tour package includes them.

  • 24/7 Customer Service - We have 24 hours a day telephone service.

    We have telephone service available 24 hours/day for ease of communication with Salkantay Trekking leading up to your trek.

  • Satellite Phone - Each of our guides has a satellite phone that can be used anywhere on the mountain to call anywhere in the world in case of emergency.

    Our main priority will always be the tranquillity of our clients. All of our guides are prepared for emergencies in the mountains; however, being a phone call away from any doctor, hospital, or friend helps you feel more secure. For this reason, each Salkantay Trekking guide has a satellite phone that can be used anywhere on the mountain to call anywhere in the world in case of an emergency.

Accommodation

  • Hotel in Cusco (Day 1, 3, and 6)

    3 Nights in a hotel in Cusco.

  • Hotel in Aguas Calientes

    The 2nd night of this tour is spent in a hotel in Aguas Calientes with a double, triple or matrimonial room, private bathroom, hot shower, wifi, breakfast, and luggage storage while you visit Machu Picchu.

  • 2 nights accommodation in Tents - Ausangate Trek

    Day 4 and 5: Salkantay Trekking uses the best equipment to ensure your safety and comfort. Every 2 people will share Eureka Timberline or Mountain Hard Wear tents with a capacity for 4 people.

Meals

  • Day 2: Breakfast at the hotel in Cusco, Buffet Lunch in the Sacred Valley, and Dinner in Aguas Calientes
  • Day 3: Breakfast at the hotel in Aguas Calientes
  • Meals on Days 4, 5, and 6: Ausangate & Rainbow Mountain Trek

    3 Breakfasts, 3 Lunches, and 2 Dinners

    Our chef prepares the best dishes in the middle of the mountain. Our passengers love our food! We respect all diets (vegetarian, vegan, or special menus are available at no extra cost), so let us know if you have any particular allergies or restrictions on your reservation form and remind your guide during the briefing. You’ll enjoy breakfast, lunch, and dinner, in addition to hot drinks and snacks.

  • Water on the trail - You will need to bring a camel bag or an empty bottle for us to give you boiled, filtered and refrigerated water.

    We’ll provide you boiled, filtered, and cooled water during your hike. For this, you need to bring a camel bag or an empty bottle (we recommend a capacity of 2 liters). You’ll be able to fill your bottles during each meal.

  • Wake up tea - Every morning at campig we will provide you with hot coca tea.

    Every morning at the campsite, you'll be woken up with a cup of hot coca tea. Our staff will provide you the tea in your tent so that you will be warm from inside out before you start your day.

  • Tea Time or Happy Hour - Every evening, before dinner, the cooks will provide you with popcorn, cookies, coffee, tea, hot water, etc.

    Every afternoon before dinner, the cooks will provide you popcorn, biscuits/cookies, coffee, hot chocolate, teas, hot water, etc. After a long day of hiking, you won't have to wait until dinner to relax, warm-up, and enjoy a bite to eat!

  • Snacks on the trail daily - You will receive a bag with cookies, fruit and more, to be refilled each morning.

    Before starting your trekking, your tour guide will provide you a cloth bag with local fruits, cookies, chocolate, caramels, etc. Every morning, we’ll refill it so that you can enjoy your snacks during the walk.

  • One cloth snack bag per person

    To avoid the usage of plastic bags that contaminate our environment, we'll give you a cloth bag for your snacks.

  • Hygiene Products

    You’ll be provided with a small towel and soap before each meal to clean your hands.

Transportation

  • Transport
    • Day 1: A representative of Salkantay Trekking will be waiting for you at Cusco Airport to take you directly to your hotel. After lunch, we'll pick you up from your hotel to explore the city on the afternoon city tour.
    • Day 2: You will be picked up from your hotel to enjoy the Sacred Valley Tour: Chinchero, Maras Moray, and Salt Mines. Then, you'll be transported to Ollantaytambo train station, where you'll take the train to Aguas Calientes.
    • Day 3: Transport from Ollantaytambo train station to your hotel in Cusco.
    • Day 4: You will be picked up from your hotel in the morning and will travel by private transportation to Tinqui, the starting point of the trek.
    • Day 6: Once you complete the tour, we will take you back to the door of your hotel in Cusco.
    • Day 7: Private transfer from your hotel in Cusco to the Airport or Bus Station.
  • Train Tickets
    • Day 2: Train Ticket from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes (Expedition Service).
    • Day 3: From Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo (Vistadome Service).
      The PeruRail Vistadome Train Service offers a unique and different way to travel to Machu Picchu. Each one of its cars features panoramic windows, enabling you to feel part of the surroundings. The Vistadome approaches you to the amazing landscapes and nature on-route, creating a real connection.
  • Round-Trip Consettur Bus Ticket Aguas Calientes - Machu Picchu (Day 3)
  • Cargo Mules

    On days 4, 5, and 6, cargo mules will carry all the camping equipment and your baggage allowance (7 kg / 15.4 lb). Our muleteers will be responsible for your duffle bag and personal items.

What Is Not Included?

  • Cusco Tourist Ticket

    This ticket is necessary and allows you admission to many of the most popular attractions in Cusco and the Sacred Valley, including archaeological sites and museums.

    • From PEN 70.00 (US$ 20.00) to PEN 150.00 (US$ 45.00) per person.
  • Cusco’s Cathedral Entrance Ticket
    • Adult: PEN 40.00 (US$ 12.00)
    • Students and Children (11-17): PEN 25.00 (US$ 8.00)
    • Children (under 10): Free
  • Qoricancha Entrance Ticket
    • Adult: PEN 20.00 (US$ 6.00)
    • Students and Children (11-17): PEN 8.00 (US$ 3.00)
    • Children (under 10): Free
  • Huayna Picchu Mountain - If you want to visit this famous mountain it has an extra cost of US$ 60.00 per person (remember to book at least one month in advance).

    You can climb the famous mountain you always see in the photos behind the archaeological site of Machu Picchu. It’s 45 minutes uphill, and coming back down can be scary if you fear heights. You can take this excursion once your guided tour to Machu Picchu ends. The permit must be issued at least two to three months in advance due to high demand. Consider that there could be changes to protect your integrity, mainly due to weather conditions.

    • The ticket for Huayna Picchu Mountain has an extra cost of US$ 60.00 per person.
  • Machu Picchu Mountain- If you want to visit this famous mountain it has an extra cost of US$ 60.00 per person (remember to book at least one month in advance).

    Machu Picchu Mountain is another of the mountains that surround the archaeological site of Machu Picchu. It offers less steep, wider, and visually less frightening trails than Huayna Picchu, and it takes 1.5 hours to reach the top. This walk requires an entrance ticket which we can secure for you if we have time in advance.

    • The ticket for Machu Picchu Mountain has an extra cost of US$ 60.00 per person.
  • Day 1 Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Day 3 Lunch & Dinner
  • Day 6 Dinner
  • Hiking Gear & Clothes
  • Travel Insurance
  • Tips for our staff

    Tipping is the norm on any excursion in Peru. Although we pay good salaries to our entire team, something extra is always welcome.

  • Additional costs or delays beyond our control

    Landslides, bad weather conditions, itinerary modifications due to a safety concern, illness, pandemia, government policy changes, political instability, strikes, act of God, etc.

  Before You Go

We want to make your trip to Peru as memorable and as carefree as possible. In this section, you’ll find the answers to all the questions you have about traveling with Salkantay Trekking in one place. Please read the following information carefully – it will help you with any questions about our services.

Briefing or Informative Meeting

All information meetings and briefings are held in our main office in Cusco (or your hotel) at 5:00 pm, one night before the tour begins. These meetings last approximately 30 to 45 minutes. If you’re unable to attend, you must coordinate another time by email, by phone or at the Salkantay Trekking office.

Trek Balance Payment (in Cusco)

If you still have a pending balance, you must pay it 2 days before your hike/tour. Otherwise, your trip reservation will not be confirmed.

If possible, it would be greatly appreciated if you could settle the remaining balance for the trek/tour in cash, either in US dollars or the local currency, at our office in Cusco. You can withdraw funds from various ATMs located along Avenida Sol, offering both US dollars and Peruvian Soles. Alternatively, you have the option to pay using a credit/debit card or PAYPAL, either online or in person, but please note that a 5% service charge will be applied by our payment gateway (Niubiz) and PAYPAL. We regret to inform you that we are unable to accept bank checks or traveler's checks as forms of payment for the balance.

Duffel Bag or Canvas Case

You’ll receive a canvas case or duffel bag during your briefing. Our horses will carry them, and the horsemen will hand them to you when you get to each camp. They measure 60 x 24 x 22 cm (23.6 x 9.45 x 8.66 in).

A maximum of 7 kg / 15.4 lb is allowed for each duffel bag, including the weight of your sleeping bag, sleeping mat, clothes, and other personal items.

Can I store my luggage at your office?

Of course! During the trip, your main luggage can be stored at our office (you can organize it with us on the briefing day or by email) or at your hotel, both free of charge.

Any equipment that you won’t need on the trek can be stored safely in your hotel. Nearly every hotel will provide this service. Don’t leave items of value with your bags; put them in the hotel safe and obtain an itemized receipt (in the unlikely case of theft, many insurance companies require that you have a copy of the receipt itemizing everything). It’s best to put items such as credit cards inside a sealed, signed envelope for extra peace of mind.

Pick up of guests

Please note:

  • All pickups are within Cusco City, but we recommend booking a hotel in the historic center for its convenient location.
  • Our guide or staff will confirm the pickup time the day before the tour.
  • Due to traffic conditions, the pickup time may vary between 30 and 45 minutes.
  • Cusco is an old city and has many narrow cobbled streets. Some hotels and Airbnbs are located on streets without car access or on long, steep slopes, making it difficult to transport luggage. For such reasons, we strongly advise you to book accommodation with good access.

Return to Cusco

Returning from Machu Picchu requires quite a bit of logistics, but don’t worry. Everything is included in your tour!

  • In Machu Picchu, you’ll board a bus that’ll take you for 25 minutes to the small city of Aguas Calientes. The buses are boarded according to arrival.
  • In Aguas Calientes, you’ll board a train to Ollantaytambo. Your guide will give you the train tickets where the boarding time will be shown. Make sure you’re on the platform 30 minutes early. The train from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo takes 1:45 hours.
  • Once you arrive at the station, our representative, identified with the Salkantay Trekking clothing, will be waiting to transfer you to Cusco or directly to your hotel. The trip from Ollantaytambo to Cusco takes 1:30 hours.
  • In Cusco, depending on your hotel’s location, we’ll take you to a smaller car from our company (Hyundai H1) to transfer you faster to your hotel.

Note: Your tour includes a One-Way Consettur Bus Ticket Aguas Calientes - Machu Picchu, so you can choose to use it from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu or from Machu Picchu to Aguas Calientes. If you want a round-trip bus ticket, you’ll need to pay an extra of US$ 12.00.

Group Tours

Group tours are made up of different types of people, then physical conditions and ages can vary. By agreeing to be part of a group tour, you also accept that some people may be faster or slower than you. Therefore, each person can go at their own pace on the route.

It may be the case that a group wishes to modify the tour; however, the guide will be the one who decides, after consulting with all the participants, if such modifications are possible.

Strikes and demonstrations

Strikes and demonstrations are common in Peru, and this may interrupt some of our tours. Roads can be blocked, and train tracks can be taken over. However, we will try to keep your trip as originally planned, even if it means leaving the night before the scheduled date.

Under these circumstances, tours may also be canceled. In case of changes or cancellations, everything will be coordinated with you by our operations department. Your safety is our highest priority, and our decisions will be made to protect it.

Lost objects

Please pay attention to where you leave your things and remember to take everything once you leave our transport, accommodation, tents, or restaurants. You’re the only one responsible for your objects during the tour.

  Packing List

WHAT SHOULD YOU BRING?

ESSENTIAL

Valid Passport
Valid Passport
Extra money (recommended soles)
Extra money (recommended soles)
Personal medication
Personal medication
Water bottle or CamelBak
Water bottle or CamelBak
Sunblock: factor 70 or more
Sunblock: factor 70 or more
Insect repellent
Insect repellent
Personal Care Products
Personal Care Products

CLOTHING

Hiking boots or shoes (preferably waterproof)
Hiking boots or shoes (preferably waterproof)
Light footwear or sandals
Light footwear or sandals
Trekking pants (*)
Trekking pants (*)
Trekking socks
Trekking socks
Pair of thermal pants
Pair of thermal pants
Shorts
Shorts
Long sleeve t-shirts
Long sleeve t-shirts
Warm jacket
Warm jacket
Waterproof jacket
Waterproof jacket
Raincoat or rain poncho
Raincoat or rain poncho
Waterproof or wool gloves
Waterproof or wool gloves
Sun hat to protect neck and face
Sun hat to protect neck and face
Wool hat for the cold
Wool hat for the cold
Neck gaiter or buff
Neck gaiter or buff
Sunglasses with UV protection
Sunglasses with UV protection

EQUIPMENT

Sleeping bag (-15°C)
Sleeping bag (-15°C)
Trekking poles
Trekking poles
Medium trekking backpack (15 - 25 liter)
Medium trekking backpack (15 - 25 liter)

RECOMMENDED

Camera and charger
Camera and charger
Power bank
Power bank
Snacks: Energy bars, chocolate, candies, dried fruits, etc.
Snacks: Energy bars, chocolate, candies, dried fruits, etc.
Bathing suit
Bathing suit
Towel
Towel
Flashlight
Flashlight
  Pricing

"The Spirit of Machu Picchu" can leave any day of the week, from March through January. We don’t operate this itinerary in February because of the rainy season & maintenance of the route.

2024 Land Cost

Group Price: US$ 995.00 per person.

Required Pre-payment: US$ 400.00 per person.

Balance (Cusco): US$ 595.00 (Commonly paid in Cusco after the briefing).

This small-group journey is guaranteed to operate with just two guests.

Notice that PayPal charges a fee of 5%, which we ask the client to cover since it's due to the use of its service. This tax is just for online deposits so that you will pay the remaining in cash (the briefing day in Cusco) without charges.

Hotel

All the related tours to Machu Picchu end in or before Aguas Calientes, so you’ll spend the night in the village in a 2 to 3 star hotel (shared room within a double, matrimonial, or triple occupancy room). If you’d like to upgrade your hotel or prefer a single room, please consider that there will be an additional cost.

Extras & Upgrades

There are complementary services and upgrades you can include in this trip.

  • Huayna Picchu:  US$ 60.00
  • Machu Picchu Mountain:  US$ 60.00
  • Huchuy Picchu Mountain:  US$ 45.00
  • Single Supplement (Hotel at Aguas Calientes):  US$ 30.00
  • Extra Night at Aguas Calientes:  US$ 50.00
  • Vistadome Train (Aguas Calientes - Ollantaytambo):  US$ 70.00

Extensions & Deals

There are several extensions you can include to your Peru Adventure. The promotional prices only apply to confirmed departures, otherwise the normal price will be applied. You can enhance your Peru Adventure with a variety of optional extensions. Please note that promotional prices are valid only for confirmed departures. For any other dates or changes, the regular price will apply.

Price Guarantee

Once your booking has been confirmed, we guarantee the price won’t increase, whatever the circumstances. So please, before booking, ensure you’ve read all our important tour information.

Student Discount

US$20.00 off

Student discounts apply to anyone 17 years old or younger. To receive the discount, we require a copy or clear photo of the passport at the time of booking. It must be valid and not expire within the travel dates. Please send it to info@salkantaytrekking.com.

  Enquire Now

Thank you for your interest in having an adventure travel experience in Peru curated by Salkantay Trekking. Please take a moment to complete our short form, so one our friendly Adventure Consultants could provide you all the information for your trip of a lifetime in Peru.

Our Pledge |  Your privacy is respected and protected. The Salkantay Trekking Company will never share, sell, or make public any of your personal contact information to third parties.

Personal Details

Trip Details

The Spirit of Machu Picchu 7D
14 years and above
Below 14 years
7 + 3 =

Remember |  One of our Travel Experts will contact you soon to confirm the availability of the trip you chose, give you more information, and/or provide you alternative options. Once availability is established, we will ask for a deposit and a completed online registration to confirm your spot on the trek. Please call us at (+51) 958 191 179 with any questions or to confirm availability over the phone.

Note |  Due to the rainy season and trail maintenance, we don't offer this trek during the whole month of february. We apologize for any inconvenience this may cause you, we are working to provide you a better service!

Feel free to reach us via email at info@salkantaytrekking.com or by calling us directly at (+51) 958 191 179

Every Day: 9:00 am to 7:00 pm

Triunfo Street 346 - Main Square of Cusco, Peru

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