▷ Your Safety First !!! | Caring for You Every Step of the Way

Your adventure, in good hands

Behind every trip are plans, excitement, and a dream you’ve been looking forward to. Taking care of you is part of helping that dream come to life.

That’s why we prepare our people and our equipment to welcome you with a smile and look after every detail, even the ones you never see. We want you to enjoy the trail and discover the magic of the Andes.

With Salkantay Trekking, you’re in the hands of local people who know and love this land and want you to experience its best.

Trained staff

Our team is trained to accompany you, provide first aid, and assist with rescues when needed.

Local knowledge

We work with people who know the trails, the terrain, and the communities along our routes.

Safety equipment

First aid supplies and communication equipment support our team throughout your adventure.

Medical support

Our partnerships with clinics help us coordinate emergency medical care and support you when you need us most.

We prepare to take care of you

The care you receive along the way begins long before your arrival. Every year, our team participates in training sessions and practical exercises to improve their preparedness and work in a coordinated manner.

Salkantay Trekking guide talking with a group on a mountain pass

Salkantay Trekking guide leading the way on the mountain trail

Salkantay Trekking tour guide giving a briefing at Machu Picchu

GUIDES

Guides prepared to look after you

We know that some of the most beautiful destinations in the Andes are far from medical services. That’s why, before our guides accompany you on the trail, we invest in their training so they can earn the international Wilderness Advanced First Aid (WAFA) certification. This training in first aid in remote locations includes cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR), use of an automated external defibrillator (AED), and rescue techniques for responding to emergencies.

We want you to enjoy these places with the peace of mind that comes from knowing you’re accompanied and in good hands.

Salkantay Trekking driver next to the company van

Travelers riding comfortably inside a Salkantay Trekking private van

DRIVERS

Drivers who look out for your safety

Your adventure begins long before you take your first step. While you’re resting or marveling at the scenery through the window, there’s someone behind the wheel keeping a close eye on the road and on those they’re transporting.

We select our drivers based on their experience and safe driving skills. We also take care of our vehicles through regular maintenance, up-to-date inspections, and insurance, so you can enjoy the ride and everything that lies ahead.

Salkantay Trekking cooks serving fresh dishes on the trail

Salkantay Trekking cook preparing a meal

COOKS

Cooks who care for you through every meal

After a hike, a meal prepared with love can restore your energy and put a smile on your face. Our chefs know this: every dish is a way to take care of you and share the flavors of our land with you.

That’s why we train them in good food handling practices (GHP) and high-altitude cooking. They learn to maintain hygiene, preserve ingredients, and accommodate your dietary needs, so you can enjoy every meal and that well-deserved rest.

Salkantay Trekking operations team in Cusco

CUSCO TEAM

A team supporting you from Cusco

Even if you don’t see them along the way, there are people in Cusco keeping an eye on your adventure. Behind every communication with your guide is a team that knows your plans and works to support you when you need it.

They’re prepared to coordinate assistance, transportation, and medical care if an unexpected situation arises. And if nature changes your plans, they’ll work with the trail team to find ways to look after you and help you continue the trip you’ve been looking forward to.

Taking care of ourselves to take care of you: Our preparation also includes alcohol testing for all our staff.

Salkantay Trekking guide checking the trail

ROUTE PREPARATION

We know the trail and its alternatives

Planning an adventure also means knowing what to do if the trail changes.

We assess the terrain conditions and available alternatives to decide whether we can adapt the route or if we need to turn back. Every decision is made with your safety and that of our team in mind.

LOCAL KNOWLEDGE

People who know their land

Our local guides, cooks, drivers, muleteers, and porters contribute much more than just their labor. They know the terrain, the nearby communities, and the access points. That knowledge helps us identify where to seek help and how to reach the group when needed.

We take care of those who take care of you

The care you receive also begins with the well-being of those who accompany you. Our commitment extends to our staff, the pack animals, and the communities that make your adventure possible.

Our team

We train our staff to take care of themselves on the trail and to share what they’ve learned. In addition, our agreements allow them to access medical care at preferential rates, because their well-being also deserves care both on and off the trail.

Our pack animals

They’re part of the team, too. We train the muleteers in their care and require that they adhere to load limits, keep their animals up to date on vaccinations, and ensure they get the rest they need.

Our host communities

Our connection continues beyond the trail. Through Salkantay Foundation, we support initiatives such as children’s dental health campaigns and Christmas activities.

Caring for the land that welcomes us: We organize cleanups in places such as Humantay Lake and make sure we leave no waste behind on the trail. We want future travelers to find the same beauty we share with you today.

We choose the right time to accompany you

Every route has its season

Taking care of your adventure includes knowing when to explore each trail. We assess the weather and trail conditions to choose the dates, routes, and activities we can offer more safely.

When conditions aren’t suitable, we suspend certain hikes or activities to protect you and our team. If this affects your plans, we help you find a safer alternative so you can keep discovering Cusco with us.

Salkantay

Usually suspended in February

We usually suspend departures in February. This year, however, we identified a safe alternative trail for travelers who want to experience this beautiful route.

Inca Trail

Closed in February

In February, the authorities close the route for maintenance and trail care.

Rainbow Mountain and Ausangate

Suspended during storms

We suspend departures when rain and thunderstorms make conditions unsuitable for hiking.

Inca Jungle

Rafting suspended in rainy season

During the rainy season, we suspend rafting when the river’s flow and current make it unsafe.

Choquequirao

Suspended December to March

We suspend departures from December through March because rain can destabilize the terrain and cause landslides.

Equipped to support you

Taking care of you is also part of what we bring along on the trail. On all our hikes, our team carries first-aid and communication supplies to assist you and coordinate help when you need it.

First-aid kit

From everyday discomfort to moments that need extra care, we carry supplies to look after you along the way.

Oximeter

Using a small sensor placed on your finger, we measure the oxygen level in your blood; no needles or blood draws required. Our guides use it when necessary to supplement their assessment of how you’re feeling during the hike.

First aid kit

We carry bandages, gauze, creams to relieve muscle soreness, and rehydration salts, among other supplies. These resources allow us to treat scrapes, minor injuries, and other needs that may arise along the way. If you take any personal medications, remember to bring them.

Emergency oxygen

On our hikes, we carry a portable oxygen tank containing 3 m³ of oxygen as a backup in case of an altitude-related emergency. Our guides are trained to use it based on how you’re feeling and standard care protocols.

Blood pressure cuff

Our guides carry a blood pressure cuff and are trained to measure your blood pressure along the route when necessary. This measurement, along with how you’re feeling, helps them assess your condition and monitor you if you experience any discomfort during the hike.

Communication and trail support

Staying connected helps our team work together and arrange the support you need, even far from the city.

Communication radios

Our guides and support staff use walkie-talkies to share information from different points along the route. They facilitate group organization and the coordination of any services and support you may need, within the range allowed by the terrain.

Satellite phones

In areas without cell service, we have satellite phones to maintain communication between the trail team and operations. They allow us to report changes to the route and organize support when needed, depending on connection conditions.

Horse assistance

On trails such as Salkantay, Ausangate, Choquequirao, and Lares, we can arrange for a horse if fatigue makes it difficult to continue on foot. Its use depends on the terrain and available sections; we also provide helmets. This is an optional service at an additional cost. Please check availability for your trip.

Your adventure starts with confidence

We want you to arrive excited and reassured that you’re in good hands. Have questions about the route or how we look after you during your trip? Tell us what you’d like to know; we’re happy to help.

TALK TO US

O2 Medical Network clinic and ambulances in Cusco

MEDICAL SUPPORT

Our care goes beyond the trail

In addition to the equipment we carry on the hike, we have a partnership with O2 Medical Network to facilitate access to medical care when you need it. Our team will contact the medical service and assist you in coordinating your care.

Care is subject to availability. Medical services and transportation may incur additional costs; coverage will depend on your travel insurance.

By your side when plans change

We know how much this trip means to you. That’s why, if things don’t go as planned, we’re here to help you find solutions, coordinate assistance, and figure out the next step together. Here are the stories of some travelers who relied on our support when their adventure took an unexpected turn.

Amazing trek, unbeatable guide, incredible food, awesome company

One of the best experiences I've had! Fredy Apaza was our tour guide and we couldn't have asked for a better guide! We loved the Trek itself but Fredy is what made the trek so incredible and memorable! He has so much knowledge that he was kind enough to share with us and he was so organized and patient! If you stick with Fredy, you will have the BEST experience on this trek! You'll go at whatever pace you need to, beat all the crowds for the trail and the hot springs (if that's part of your trek) and he'll make sure you get the experience personalized for you! And a Michelin star should be awarded to chef Guido! He'll prepare the most delicious meals for you! It's not just a dinner or a lunch, but a true foody experience! If you want an unforgettable experience, choose this company and ask for Fredy!

Premium 5-day trek to Machu Picchu

Booked the premium 5-day trek to Machu Picchu and was not disappointed. Very well organized and handled all the logistics - airport transport, accommodations, food, passes - everything was well executed. My group and I all felt lucky to have Guido as our guide - he was very knowledgeable about the land, the people, the history, and had a passion for sharing his love for his culture. Thanks, G! Special shout out to our chef, Vidal and our horseman, Luis for all their hard work and going to great lengths to take care of us out in the Andes!

Amazing trek and well organised - highly recommend

Fantastic tour that was well organised and executed by Carlos and the team. Some days can be a hard slog but it is extremely rewarding and the accomodation is amazing. Highly recommend!

Once in a lifetime experience in the Andes

Guido our amazing guide, gave us a once in a lifetime experience. His knowledge of the Peruvian history and specifically, the indigenous Quechua language and culture of the Andes, and the Inkas, was super interesting and enrichment to our experience. Guido's detail oriented attention and guidance, made our 5 days Salkantay trek, plus two days in Machu Pichu, an amazing experience. From making sure each one of the group members, had all of her/his needs met, whatever they might be; from physical challenges or food restrictions and any support or guidanc. Guido had our backs! My wife and I, celebrating her 45 th birthday, which also was acknowledged by Guido and the amazing chef we had with us throughout the trek, made this trip a week of daily highlights and amazing core memories. Accomodations were epic in their locations and surprisingly gorgeous and welcoming. Amazing trek in the Andes, accompanied by truly local indigenous guide, always positive, always there for you. Highly recommend, if you want to push yourself, mentally and physically and visit one of the amazing wonders of the world In style. We'll be back, Guido and Salkantay trekking company. Ilan + Vienna Portugali, Los Angeles, California, USA @ilanportugali

The classic 5 day Salkantay Trek

The classic 5 day Salkantay Trek with Salkantay Trekking was an unforgettable experience and the highlight of our entire trip. Our guide, JC, was phenomenal, knowledgeable, fun, and genuinely cared about our group. He made the whole journey so enjoyable and made sure we were all having a good time as well. The food was absolutely delicious (way beyond what I would have thought while trekking), and the domes were super comfortable. We had mostly warm / hot showers which was lovely. Everything was well organised and we didn't have to think about anything across the 5 days. Make sure to bring lots of layers, the weather changes so much throughout the trip. Our group all spoke English, was similar in age and ability which made for fun, smooth and memorable days. Highly recommend the classic 5 day trek – and if you get JC as your guide, you're in for something special! Thank you JC!

Worth the trek!

The guides were absolutely wonderful — incredibly friendly, approachable, and genuinely dedicated to ensuring that every part of the trip was enjoyable. They were also very honest and made us feel completely safe and comfortable throughout the journey. Thanks to their professionalism and attention to detail, everything went smoothly and the whole experience felt effortless and unforgettable.

Salkantay Trek

Ramiro was by far the best tour guide we've ever had! He shared so much fascinating information about Peru, the Inca history, and local culture. His passion and knowledge made every part of the trip meaningful and enjoyable. Thanks to him, our experience in Peru was truly unforgettable.

7 day Salkantay and Inka trek

I did the 7 day Salkantay and Inka trek, and it is an experience I would highly recommend! Particularly the Salkantay portion of the trek, where we were often the only people as far as the eye could see. It was a beautiful experience, and such a special way to experience the Andes!

Salkantay 5 day trek with Franz Contreras

Our experience was with Franz Contreras /Salkantay Trekking. There are many people behind the scenes that make this experience happen without a hitch. Franz kept the trek on schedule and accommodated all skill levels in our group. He was the best and I would refer everyone to Franz. Check them out today.

Frequently asked questions

What happens if I feel sick during the hike?

Let your guide know as soon as you feel unwell. They are trained to provide first aid and coordinate assistance. Depending on how you’re feeling, they’ll help you decide whether you need to rest, stop the hike, head back down, or seek medical attention.

What happens if the weather or trail conditions force us to change the itinerary?

We’ll assess the conditions and explore alternatives to ensure your safety and that of our team. If we need to change the route or cancel an activity, we’ll explain the reason and the available options.

How do you communicate in areas without cell service?

Depending on the route, we have satellite phones and radios to communicate and coordinate support. We also work with local staff who know the trails and nearby access points.

Could there be additional costs if the trip changes?

Yes. Some unforeseen circumstances beyond our control may require transportation, tickets, or other additional services. If this happens, we’ll explain the options, the costs, and what the company can cover, so we can agree with you on how to proceed.

Is medical care included?

Our team will help you coordinate the care you need. Medical services and transportation may incur an additional cost and/or be covered by your travel insurance.

What certifications do our guides have?

We train our guides to earn Wilderness Advanced First Aid (WAFA) certification, which is advanced first aid training for remote locations. This training enables them to provide you with initial care and coordinate support when you need it.

What information should I share before traveling?

Let us know if you have any allergies, dietary needs, or health conditions we should be aware of. That way, we can go over with you the precautions and preparation required for your adventure.

Why do we work with small groups?

Because we want to get to know you and accompany you closely. A small group allows the guide to be more attentive to how you’re feeling and what you need, and gives you more space to ask questions and enjoy the journey.

Travel Associations & Certifications