The Savage Mountain Trail to Machu Picchu
After delving into the rich history of Cusco, the heart of the Inca Empire, set out on the Salkantay Trek—a breathtaking journey to Machu Picchu. This scenic route takes you past the shimmering Humantay Lake, beneath the towering Salkantay Mountain, and through the mystical cloud forest, where the Andes merge with the Peruvian jungle.
Each night, relax in comfortable accommodations and savor delicious meals surrounded by stunning landscapes. With our expert guides, uncover the region’s history, culture, and natural beauty. Embark on an unforgettable adventure through the heart of the Andes.
The Salkantay Trek Basecamp
- Overview
- Itinerary
- Inclusions
- Before You Go
- Packing List
- Accommodation
- Pricing
- Enquire Now
If you love adventure and enjoy some of the best trekking routes in the world, our The Salkantay Trek Excursion is for you. It combines the most exciting trekking trails with the most incredible scenery imaginable. Join us on your own, in a couple, or as part of a group.
Expect to pass through snowy mountaintops before heading down through the cloud forest. You’ll end up hiking through the lush Peruvian jungle as you get closer and closer to the Wonder of the World, Machu Picchu. The drastic change in climate and surroundings makes this exciting trek so unique.
Not only will the scenery envelop you, but you’ll also see wonderful destinations on many travelers’ bucket lists. On day 1, you’ll trek up to the stunning Humantay Lake, which sits like a blue gem amidst the snowy backdrop. The next day, we’ll embark on the challenging trail to the Salkantay Pass to see the majestic Salkantay Mountain. On day 4, you’ll visit the fascinating Inca archaeological site of Llactapata and get your first glimpse of Machu Picchu.
As if that wasn't enough to get your heartbeat racing, what better way to end the ultimate trip than with a visit to the Lost City of the Incas, Machu Picchu. You’ll enjoy a guided tour of about two hours before climbing Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu mountain and contemplating a panoramic view of the Citadel. You’ll feel like you’re flying high like a condor and transport back in time hundreds of years to imagine what life was like back then. Don’t miss out on our Salkantay Trek Excursion
Itinerary at a Glance
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Day 01
Cusco - Mollepata - Challacancha - Soraypampa - Humantay Lake - Basecamp Domes
This morning, hike to Soraypampa and enjoy a delicious lunch; in the afternoon, we’ll hike up to Humantay Lake. Spend the night in our basecamp domes at Soraypampa.
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Day 02
Soraypampa - Abra Salkantay - Huayracmachay - Chaullay - Collpapampa (Mountain Sky View)
Today, you’ll tackle the trek's highest point, the Salkantay Pass, and admire the Salkantay Mountain before descending through the Cloud Forest. You’ll spend the night at our exclusive Mountain Sky View in Collpapampa.
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Day 03
Collpapampa - La Playa - Lucmabamba - Jungle Domes
Enjoy hiking through the lush jungle and visiting an organic coffee farm. At night, you’ll sleep surrounded by nature in our exclusive Jungle Domes.
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Day 04
Lucmabamba - Llactapata - Aobamba - Hidroelectrica - Aguas Calientes
In the morning, you will head to the Inca archaeological site of Llactapata, where you will admire Machu Picchu for the first time. Afterward, you will continue to Aguas Calientes to rest in a comfortable hotel.
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Day 05
Aguas Calientes - Machu Picchu - Ollantaytambo - Cusco
It’s the big day! You’ll spend the morning exploring Machu Picchu before returning to Aguas Calientes. Then, you will board the train to Ollantaytambo, and our private transportation will take you back to Cusco.
What's it like
Highlights
- Ranked among the Top 25 Treks in the World by National Geographic Adventure Travel Magazine.
- Experience one of Peru and South America’s most epic trekking adventures.
- A top alternative to the Inca Trail, offering fewer crowds and more solitude.
- Discover breathtaking spots like Humantay Lake and the majestic Salkantay Mountain.
- Stay in exclusive, private campsites designed for comfort in the heart of the Andes.
- Hike through stunning landscapes—cascades, waterfalls, glaciers, vibrant valleys, rare wildlife, and cloud forests.
- End your journey with the ultimate reward: exploring the awe-inspiring citadel of Machu Picchu.
Why Travel with us
Cusco - Mollepata - Challacancha - Soraypampa - Humantay Lake - Basecamp Domes
Highlight of the day: Get ready for one of the most incredible views you will ever have: the glorious and spectacular Humantay Lake.
Hike to the Jewel in the Mountains
After an early wake-up, you’ll head to Mollepata to enjoy an optional breakfast before continuing to Challacancha, where you’ll begin today’s exciting hike. The morning walk will take around 3 hours and lead you to Soraypampa, your first accommodation, where you’ll stay in our unique Exclusive Camps.
After an energizing lunch and a well-deserved rest, we will ascend to the impressive jewel of the mountain, the Humantay Lake; it is a three-hour round trip before descending for a tasty dinner and a well-deserved sleep.
You’ll be up nice and early today to be ready for us to pick you up around 4:00 a.m. You’ll travel in our comfy transportation with blankets to enjoy a bit more sleep on the drive. After 2 hours, we’ll enjoy a brief stop in Mollepata for an optional breakfast. We’ll then continue to Challacancha, where we’ll start our hike.
First, you’ll meet the cooks and horsemen and do a last equipment check. Then, we’ll be on our way. You’ll start with a 3-hour moderate walk to Soraypampa (3,900 m / 12,795 ft), where we’ll be spending our first night. The first section is relatively flat, with a slight uphill through a deep valley of glaciers. You’ll notice that much of the trail follows a restored Inca water channel, which local farmers still use today. This section is 7 km / 4.35 mi overall.
Once in Soraypampa, you’ll get settled in at our exclusive Basecamp Domes, where you’ll sleep this evening. You’ll have time to rest after enjoying your first lunch in the mountains. Feeling refreshed, it’ll be time to start the hike up to the incredibly beautiful Humantay Lake (4,200 m /13,780 ft).
This round trip takes about 3 hours and covers 3 km / 1.86 mi. It’s not far, but you need to take things slowly at this altitude. You’ll have some time to enjoy the fantastic scenery once you get to the lake. There aren’t many places in the Andes quite as stunning as the turquoise waters glistening against the Humantay glacier. You’ll feel like you’re in a fairy tale!
Back at camp, you’ll enjoy a delicious and well-deserved dinner with a beautiful sunset in your company. You can’t describe the energy here, but you’ll feel its peacefulness for yourself once here. Then, it’ll be time to turn into your Basecamp domes. From the glass roof, you’ll be able to enjoy a night under the stars, constellations, and comets and wake up to see the Apu Salkantay watching over you.
Soraypampa - Abra Salkantay - Huayracmachay - Chaullay - Collpapampa (Mountain Sky View)
Highlight of the day: Challenge yourself and make it to the summit of Apu Salkantay.
The Stunning Salkantay Pass and Descent to the Amazon Jungle
We will wake up early to a spectacular sunrise and an energizing cup of coca tea. After breakfast, we'll hike for three hours to the highest point of the route, Abra Salkantay (4,630 m / 15,190 ft). Once at the top, you’ll be able to see various mountains: Humantay, Tucarhuay, and Pumasillo. You’ll feel the energies of the Andes before descending to Huayracmachay, where we’ll enjoy a delicious lunch.
After that, we’ll venture into the cloud forest and appreciate the diverse flora and fauna of the area. Finally, we’ll arrive at Collpapampa, where our comfortable Mountain Sky View accommodations await us for a well-deserved dinner and a good night’s rest.
Today, you'll witness one of the best sunrises of your life as the sun lights up the Salkantay Mountain with its first rays. The second day of trekking brings us great challenges, and we'll prepare for them with a hearty and nourishing breakfast.
The first stage consists of 7 km, which we will cover in approximately 3 hours. The route begins by passing through Salkantaypampa and Soyrococha until our destination, the Salkantay Pass. At 4,630 m / 15,190 feet, this will be the highest point of the entire journey, which you will reach with the constant support of our guides. The effort of the ascent will be worth it as you take in the view and feel the energy of the Apu (lord in Quechua) Salkantay, considered a deity with influence over the life cycles of the region.
The excitement isn't over yet! After admiring the beauty of the Andes, we begin the descent stage, which includes some slopes until we reach Huayracmachay (3,850 m / 12,631 feet). Here, you'll enjoy a delicious lunch to gain energy and prepare for the first territory change: we enter the tropical forest zone. Known as the 'cloud forest,' this lush, humid, and diverse forest features a much warmer climate filled with vegetation.
Hiker's Recommendation: Activate your senses! Don’t forget to notice the little details, listen to the sounds of nature, and soak in the positive vibes around you. You'll have the chance to admire various types of orchids and maybe even spot a few hummingbirds.
This 9.5 km stretch will take you to Collpapampa, where you can enjoy a delicious dinner before your well-deserved rest in our Mountain Sky View cabins. Surrounded by wildlife and vibrant flora, they are the perfect place to relax after conquering a day full of adventures.
Collpapampa - La Playa - Lucmabamba - Jungle Domes
Highlight of the day: Explore the lush jungle and learn all about coffee and the process in the plantations. The aroma in the air is heavenly.
Venture into the jungle and enjoy a coffee experience.
We'll enjoy a nutritious breakfast with views of the jungle before departing from the camp. Along the way, we'll pass through a small village called Collpapampa and descend through a valley with beautiful views of waterfalls, fruit trees, and diverse flora and fauna. In the afternoon, we'll savor a delicious lunch in Lucmabamba and visit a coffee farm, where we'll learn about its process. You can also visit the Cocalmayo hot springs. Finally, we’ll spend the night in the exclusive Jungle Domes.
Today, we’ll rise early and enjoy a delightful breakfast with a view of the trees. After that, we’ll hike through the Santa Teresa Valley, soaking in the lush landscape filled with rivers, waterfalls, orchids, and numerous banana, coffee, and avocado plantations. This excursion will connect you with nature and fill your lungs with fresh air.
We’ll pass through a small village called Collpapampa before heading downhill, where we’ll observe the diverse flora and fauna. If you’re lucky, you might catch a glimpse of the famous cock-of-the-rock, Peru’s national bird. Afterward, we’ll arrive at La Playa, where we’ll visit a local coffee farmer’s plantation, who will explain the brewing process to us. Then, we’ll continue our hike to the Jungle Domes in Lucmabamba (2,000 m / 6,562 ft) to enjoy our delicious lunch.
In the afternoon, you’ll have the opportunity to explore the surrounding area of the village and learn about the daily life of the locals. As an optional activity, you can visit the Cocalmayo hot springs for a relaxing dip after several days of hiking. This itinerary variation is not included in the service, so you will need to cover an additional cost (transportation and entrance fee).
After choosing your activity, you’ll return to Lucmabamba, where you can enjoy a delicious dinner and settle into our exclusive Jungle Domes. There, you’ll hear the many sounds of nature and feel in harmony with the earth.
Once you've finished your selected activity, you’ll head back to Lucmabamba, where a delightful dinner awaits you. Afterward, you can relax in our exclusive Jungle Domes, surrounded by the soothing sounds of nature, allowing you to truly connect with the earth.
Lucmabamba - Llactapata - Aobamba - Hidroelectrica - Aguas Calientes
Highlight of the day: Visit the fascinating Inca archaeological site of Llactapata. Get your camera ready to see Machu Picchu for the first time!
Enjoy your first view of Machu Picchu from Llactapata.
Today things get more exciting as you hike along a part of the original Inca Trail. You’ll walk up for 2 hours to an Inca archaeological site called Llactapata. You’ll learn all about the history and get your first glimpse of Machu Picchu! You’ll walk downhill to lunch before making your way to Hidroeléctrica.
From here, you can continue walking to Aguas Calientes for around 3 hours or board a train for an extra US$ 35.00. Tonight, you’ll be dining in a restaurant and sleeping in a hotel before the big day tomorrow.
Today, you’ll be excited to put on your hiking boots and start the trek after enjoying a delicious breakfast. In the morning, you’ll walk a section of the famous Inca Trail, recognized worldwide. After two hours of climbing and taking in the fascinating views of the Santa Teresa Valley, you’ll arrive at Llactapata (2,700 m / 8,858 ft), an Inca archaeological site located across from Machu Picchu.
Llactapata is the first Inca complex you’ll see on the hike, where you’ll learn about the mysteries of this ancient culture and this extraordinary site. From here, you’ll also get your first distant glimpse of Machu Picchu and Huayna Picchu. Our guide will narrate the history of the Incas while you take all the photos you want to remember and share your fantastic experiences with friends and family back home.
Afterward, you’ll march downhill for an hour and a half. You’ll get more views of the Inca citadel of Machu Picchu, which will raise your expectations for the following day. We’ll stop for lunch in Ahobamba before continuing the half-hour hike to Hidroeléctrica (1,800 m / 5,906 ft). One of the most impressive sights along this stretch is the 250-meter-tall artificial waterfall, which generates electricity for the entire city of Cusco.
Once at Hidroeléctrica, you have different options:
- If you’re tired after the entire route, you can take a train to Aguas Calientes (not included).
- If you prefer to enjoy the last stretch of the hike, you can walk alongside the railroad tracks to Aguas Calientes, which will take about three hours. This journey will provide another opportunity to enjoy the warm jungle surroundings.
Along the way, you’ll see the Intihuatana, an ancient rock that the Incas used as a sundial. It was employed to measure and determine the winter solstice, which signified the beginning of the agricultural season for them. After that, you’ll arrive at the train tracks leading to Aguas Calientes. Once in the town, you’ll enjoy dinner at a nice restaurant and spend the night in a comfortable hotel.
Note: For safety reasons, the hike along the Llactapata trail is not guaranteed 100% during the rainy season. When there are frequent heavy rains, this trail can become very dangerous.
Aguas Calientes - Machu Picchu - Ollantaytambo - Cusco
Highlight of the day: Get ready for the experience of a lifetime that will take you to one of the Seven Wonders of the World: the magnificent Machu Picchu!
Explore the incredible Inca citadel of Machu Picchu and travel back in time.
Today is the day you’ve been waiting for. You will finally visit one of the Seven Wonders of the Modern World: Machu Picchu. After starting your day early, you’ll head to the citadel to avoid the crowds. Once there, you’ll enjoy a guided tour lasting about two hours, where you’ll learn everything you need to know about the site while appreciating the incredible landscape.
Afterward, you can hike an additional mountain if you booked your ticket in advance. Then, we’ll return to Aguas Calientes, where you’ll have lunch before boarding the train to Ollantaytambo. From there, our transportation will take you back to your hotel in Cusco. Now is the time to rest after an unforgettable and once-in-a-lifetime experience.
Today is the big day! The moment you’ve been waiting for since you started your trek has finally arrived. You will visit Machu Picchu, one of the Seven Wonders of the World and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. You’ll need to wake up early to avoid the crowds and enjoy the serenity of the place in the morning light.
We will take a bus to the fortress, enjoying the landscape through the window. Once at the Inca citadel, you will have an approximately two-hour guided tour covering the most significant areas of this incredible historical site. You will see houses, temples, terraces, and fields, among others. You will be impressed by the Inca engineering, which was far ahead of its time and remains a mystery in many aspects.
Fun fact: When a Peruvian guide showed this place to Hiram Bingham, it was almost unrecognizable, covered in thick vegetation, and in a state of disrepair. Since then, it has been cleaned and restored; today, it is protected and cherished by people from all corners of the world. BECISDSD
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
Entry Ticket to the Salkantay Trek (Day 1)
Entry to Humantay Lake (Day 1)
Entry Ticket to Machu Picchu Archaeological Site (Day 1)
The "Machu Picchu Circuit 2" ticket offers the most complete tour of the Machu Picchu citadel and is also the most requested. For this reason, we recommend booking it well in advance to secure your entry.
Circuit 2
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.
Experienced Tour Guide - All our guides have professionalism, experience, responsibility, seriousness and passion, which will make your trip safe and comfortable.
Our official tour guides speak English and Spanish and are professionally trained and certified. We choose them for their experience, responsibility, unbridled passion for exploring, and pride in sharing our culture and history. In every experience, they will keep you safe and comfortable so you can enjoy your time worry-free!
Private Camping Equipment - We have dining rooms at each campsite.
We have dining rooms, tables, chairs, and a kitchen at each campsite. In addition, all our equipment, like cooking equipment, will be carried by our horses.
One Duffle Bag
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 cover to protect your backpack on the road and a rain poncho.
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.
Your tranquility is our first priority. Although our guides are prepared for emergencies in the mountains, calling a doctor, hospital, or a friend can make you feel more secure. For that reason, each Salkantay Trekking guide carries a satellite phone to call any location worldwide and from anywhere on the mountain.
Accommodation
Personal Accommodation in Private Campsites
Like our ancestors, we’re very considerate of the Pachamama (Mother Earth). For this reason, our campsites and lodges are adapted to the environment to avoid generating negative impacts.
Hotel in Aguas Calientes
You will spend the last night of the trek in a comfortable hotel at Aguas Calientes, including luggage storage, while you visit Machu Picchu.
- *Accommodation is in double, twin, and triple rooms.
Meals
5 Breakfasts, 4 Lunches, and 4 Dinners - We are mindful of everyone's diet, so let us know if you have any dietary restrictions.
Our chef prepares the most amazing 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, from your first lunch to your last breakfast. For this, you need to bring a camel bag or an empty bottle (we recommend a capacity of 2 liters).
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 bring the tea to your tent so that you will be warmed 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 with popcorn, cookies, coffee, hot chocolate, tea, 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!
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
We’ll provide you with a cloth bag for your snacks—perfect for storing wrappers and keeping the environment clean. Feel free to use it throughout your trek!
Transportation
Transfers - On day 1 we will take you from your hotel to Challacancha, day 5 from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu and from Ollantaytambo train station to your hotel in Cusco.
- Day 1: You'll be picked up from your hotel in the morning and travel in our transportation to Challacancha, the trek’s starting point.
- Day 5: One-Way Bus Ticket from Agus Calientes to Machu Picchu
- Day 5: Transport from Ollantaytambo train station to your hotel in Cusco.
Train Ticket from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo (Day 5)
PeruRail Expedition Service
Personal Belongings Transportation - The first 3 days your camping equipment will be transported by pack mules and on day 4 your duffle bag will be transported by car and train.
- On day 1, 2 and 3, cargo mules carry all the camping equipment and your baggage allowance (7 kg / 15.4 lb).
- On day 4, your duffle bag will be transported by car and train.
What Is Not Included?
Sleeping Bag - If you do not have your own, you can rent one from us at $25.00 per person.
You can rent one from our company if you don’t have your own. Our sleeping bags are effective and durable to protect you from temperatures as low as -18ºC (0ºF). They are mummy-form and include a sleeping liner. The bags are cleaned after every use and have a maximum usage of 30 trips.
- US$ 25.00 per person
Walking Sticks - You can rent Walking Sticks in our company at $25.00 per person.
Walking Sticks (with rubber tips) can be very useful on rough terrain and for ascending and descending. You can rent a set from our company if you’d like.
- US$ 25.00 per person
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.
Lunch in Aguas Calientes and Dinner in Cusco (Day 5)
Train from Hidroelectrica to Aguas Calientes (Day 4)
In case you feel exhausted or in bad condition after the trek from Lucmabamba to Hidroelectrica, you can take the train from Hidroelectrica to Aguas Calientes.
- US$ 40.00 per person
Personal Hiking Clothes and Gear
Travel Insurance
Tips for our staff
Tipping is the norm on any excursion to Machu Picchu. Although we pay good salaries to our entire team, something extra is always welcome, especially considering the hard work they do. Typically, group participants collect their tips to hand out to the horsemen and chefs together.
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.
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.
Is it for me?
The Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu is an excellent alternative to the Inca Trail trek and better suited for more adventurous trekkers who can handle higher altitudes and longer distances. Ascending to reach the famous Salkantay Pass (4,630 m / 15,190 ft) isn’t too strenuous nor very steep since it’s at the beginning of the trek. Still, it does require stamina and a little time in Cusco to acclimatize to the altitude before beginning the trek.
How many days do I need to acclimate in Cusco before the Trek?
It is very important to be well acclimated to the altitude before exerting yourself on a trek. We do recommend that you arrive in Cusco at least 2 or 3 days before the trek starts to help you become acclimatized and avoid possible problems with altitude sickness while on the trek.
Suppose you have already been in another area of Peru at a high altitude before arriving in Cusco. In that case, we still recommend you have a whole day in Cusco to rest, recover from your travel, and enjoy the sights and sounds of Cusco before departing for the trek.
Here some suggestions for activities to do in the Cusco vicinity before starting your adventure trek:
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 from Machu Picchu 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, tents or restaurants. You’re the only one responsible for your objects during the tour.
WHAT SHOULD YOU BRING?
ESSENTIAL
CLOTHING
EQUIPMENT
RECOMMENDED
Private & Exclusive Campsites
Basecamp Domes
Experience the tranquility of the Andes at Soraypampa, where our comfortable camps offer the perfect blend of adventure and relaxation. Surrounded by breathtaking mountain views, it's the ideal base to explore the majestic Humantay Lake and the towering Salkantay peak.
- Location: Soraypampa
- Altitude: 3,900 m / 12,795 ft
- Capacity: 2 people per Camp
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Mountain Sky View
Our campsite Mountain Sky View is a warm mountain accommodation and our novelty this year, and it’s with great pleasure that we prepared this place for all those looking for a glamping experience surrounded by nature. Each one of its individual Andean Sky Huts counts with a private bath besides spectacular tropical mountain views. You’ll find peace under the shining stars listening to the voices of wildlife and the whispers of the river in the valley.
- Location: Collpapampa
- Altitude: 2,950 m / 9,678 ft
- Cabins: 10
- Capacity: 2 people per Sky Hut
- Meals: Breakfast and Dinner
Jungle Domes
From the comfort of our domes, you can be in intimate contact with the surrounding nature, hearing the wind or the rain or gazing at the stars through the central dome from your comfortable bed. The conceptual design of our domes invites you to see one of the most beautiful landscapes in the world from your window.
- Location: Lucmabamba
- Altitude: 2,000 m / 6,562 ft
- Domes: 16
- Capacity: 2 people per Dome
- Meals: Breakfast and Dinner
Accommodation in Aguas Calientes
Selected Hotels
We offer a set of well located hotels with very comfortable and tasteful decorated rooms. You will find them impecable, clean rooms and beds, adequate toilets and showers. A perfect place to rest before the great day!
- Location: Aguas Calientes
- Altitude: 2,040 m / 6,693 ft
- Type: Double, Matrimonial, and Triple
- Meals: Breakfast
"The Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu Basecamp" 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.
Price 2025
Group Price: US$ 620.00 per person
Required Pre-payment: US$ 400.00 per person
Balance (Cusco): US$ 220.00 (Typically paid in Cusco two days before the start of your expedition)
This small-group journey is guaranteed to operate with just two guests.
Please note that PayPal and our credit/debit card payment gateway, Niubiz, charge a 5% processing fee for online deposits. We kindly request that our clients cover this fee, as it is necessary to use their secure service. Please be aware that this fee only applies to online deposits. If you choose to pay the full amount or remaining balance in cash, there will be no additional charges.
Hotel in Aguas Calientes
All the related treks to Machu Picchu end in or before Aguas Calientes, so you’ll spend the last night in a hotel in the town rather than camping (including a shared room in a standard 3-star hotel). If you need a hotel upgrade or prefer a single room, you can pay an extra fee. Please enquire for more details.
Add-ons & Upgrades
Complementary services and upgrades you can include in this trip:
- Huayna Picchu Mountain: US$ 60.00
- Machu Picchu Mountain: US$ 60.00
- Huchuy Picchu Mountain: US$ 50.00
- 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.
- Cusco City Tour: US$ 50.00 US$ 40.00
- Sacred Valley: US$ 100.00 US$ 80.00
- Moray & Maras Salt Mines: US$ 100.00 US$ 80.00
- Vinicunca Rainbow Mountain: US$ 100.00 US$ 80.00
- Palccoyo Rainbow Mountain: US$ 100.00 US$ 80.00
- Pallay Punchu Rainbow Mountain: US$ 120.00 US$ 100.00
- Waqrapukara Tour: US$ 120.00 US$ 100.00
- Ausangate Seven Lakes: US$ 100.00 US$ 80.00
- Queswachaka Inca Bridge: US$ 120.00 US$ 100.00
Extra Equipment
Additional items you can rent for this trip:
- Sleeping bag:: US$ 25.00
- Trekking poles (pair): US$ 25.00
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.
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.
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 392, Office 212 (2nd Floor), Cusco, Peru
From May to mid-August, tickets to Machu Picchu —especially for Circuit 2, which we include— are mostly sold out. For new bookings made from March 1st onward, if Circuit 2 is unavailable on your selected date, we’ll provide access to Circuit 1 or 3 at no additional cost. Both are excellent alternatives, subject to availability.
