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The Savage Mountain Trail to Machu Picchu
Step into one of Peru’s most extraordinary journeys: the Salkantay Mountain Domes Trek to Machu Picchu. Over five unforgettable days, move through ever-changing landscapes—from towering glaciers and turquoise lagoons to the lush embrace of the cloud forest.
Discover the magic of Humantay Lake, cross the legendary Salkantay Pass, and catch your first glimpse of Machu Picchu from Llactapata. Along the way, enjoy thoughtfully crafted meals, exclusive mountain domes, and the genuine care of our local experts.
This is more than a trek.
It’s a journey that reconnects you—with nature, with culture, and with yourself.
Starting from US$695 per person
Moderate to Challenging
- Overview
- Itinerary
- Inclusions
- Before You Go
- Packing List
- Accommodation
- Pricing
- Enquire Now
Experience Highlights
- The Salkantay Trek is considered one of the 25 best treks in the world by National Geographic Adventure Travel Magazine.
- Enjoy one of the very best trekking adventures you’ll find in Peru and South America.
- Besides the Inca Trail, the Salkantay Trek is one of the most popular treks to Machu Picchu and is less frequented by tourists.
- Visit stunning locations like Humantay Lake and the glorious Salkantay Mountain.
- Witness incredible scenery like cascades, waterfalls, glaciers, mountains, colorful valleys, unique plants and wildlife, and the cloud forest.
- Hike alongside the magnificent Salkantay glacier.
- Exploring the ancient citadel of Machu Picchu is one of the greatest experiences in the world.
Itinerary at a Glance
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Day 01
Cusco - Mollepata - Challacancha - Soraypampa - Humantay Lake - Salkantay Mountain Domes
You'll start your day early with a 4:30 a.m. hotel pickup, traveling two hours to Mollepata for breakfast, then continuing to Challacancha, the starting point of the 7 km / 4.35-mile hike to our Salkantay Mountain Domes in Soraypampa (3,900 m / 12,795 ft). After lunch, you'll hike 3 km / 1.86 miles round trip to Humantay Lake (4,200 m / 13,780 ft). Back at camp, you'll enjoy dinner and a restful night in your dome with views of Apu Salkantay.
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Day 02
Soraypampa - Abra Salkantay - Huayracmachay - Chaullay - Collpapampa (Mountain Sky View)
Today, you’ll reach the trek's highest point, the Salkantay Pass, where you'll witness the majestic Salkantay Mountain. Afterward, you'll descend through the cloud forest. You’ll spend the night in our exclusive Mountain Sky View at Collpapampa.
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Day 03
Collpapampa - La Playa - Lucmabamba (Super Jungle Domes)
Enjoy the day walking through the lush jungle and visiting an organic coffee farm. Tonight you’ll sleep surrounded by nature in our exclusive Super Jungle Domes.
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Day 04
Lucmabamba - Llactapata - Aobamba - Hidroelectrica - Aguas Calientes
In the morning, you’ll hike to the Inca archaeological site of Llactapata and appreciate Machu Picchu for the first time before heading 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.
Why Travel with us
Your Safety is Our Priority
All our guides are highly trained in first aid
Exclusive Campsites
Salkantay Trekking offers exclusive, peaceful campsites and unique stays with local families.
Expert Local Guides
Handpicked for their knowledge of our country and their dedication to creating unforgettable journeys.
Sustainable Tourism
The Salkantay Foundation supports vulnerable Cusco communities through sustainable and cultural projects.
Andean Chefs
Our trained mountain chefs cook fresh, nutritious local dishes to help you recover after trekking.
Delicious Meals
Thoughtfully prepared by Andean chefs, customized to your taste and dietary requirements.
Small Groups
Travel in groups of no more than 16, uniting solos, couples, families, and friends in authentic adventures.
Skilled Horsemen
Our local horsemen safely carry your gear by mule and make your trek unforgettable.
Cusco - Mollepata - Challacancha - Soraypampa - Humantay Lake - Salkantay Mountain 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
You'll start your day early with a 4:30 a.m. hotel pickup for a two-hour drive to Mollepata, where you'll enjoy an energizing breakfast before heading to Challacancha, the starting point of the trek. The 7 km / 4.35-mile hike to Soraypampa (3,900 m / 12,795 ft) follows a restored Inca water channel and passes through a valley surrounded by glaciers. At our Salkantay Mountain Domes, you'll enjoy lunch and some rest before hiking to Humantay Lake (4,200 m / 13,780 ft), a 3 km / 1.86-mile round trip with breathtaking views. Back at camp, a delicious dinner awaits, followed by an unforgettable night in your dome with sunrise views of Apu Salkantay.
You’ll be up nice and early today to be ready for us to pick you up around 4:30 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 Sky Camp, 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 Sky Camp igloo. 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.
Discover the sacred mountain, the cloud forest, and the tropical 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 (Super 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.
Jungle Adventure and Coffee Experience
Today, continue your adventure with a hike through the jungle of the Santa Teresa Valley, where you will see lush landscapes of rivers, waterfalls, orchids, fruit tree plantations, and enjoy a wonderful coffee experience. You will arrive at our Super Jungle Domes camp to enjoy a delicious lunch, then have the afternoon free to explore the surroundings. In the evening, you will rest while listening to the sounds of nature.
Today we’ll begin the day at 6:00 a.m. with a hot cup of tea and a nourishing breakfast at camp. We’ll then set out on a scenic hike through the Santa Teresa Valley, following a gently descending trail that rewards us with spectacular views of rivers, waterfalls, orchids, and plantations of bananas, coffee, and avocados. Keep your eyes open—if we’re lucky, we may spot the iconic Andean cock-of-the-rock, Peru’s national bird.
Upon reaching Zona Propiedad, our private vehicle will be waiting to transfer us to La Playa, allowing us to arrive with more energy and time to enjoy an authentic coffee experience. Here we’ll explore the coffee fields, take part in the cultivation process, and finally roast, grind, and brew our own cup.
After this enriching activity, we’ll continue by private transport to Lucmabamba (2,000 m / 6,562 ft), where we’ll enjoy a delicious lunch and settle into our exclusive Super Jungle Domes. In the afternoon, you’ll have free time to explore the surroundings or visit the nearby Cocalmayo hot springs if you wish (not included in the package).
In the evening, we’ll return to Lucmabamba for a restorative dinner before resting in your lodge surrounded by the sounds of nature. The night ends in the comfort of your lodge, where the gentle murmur of the forest becomes the perfect soundtrack for a deep and peaceful sleep.
Lucmabamba - Llactapata - Aobamba - Hidroelectrica - Aguas Calientes
Highlight of the day: Visit the fascinating Inca archaeological site of Llactapata. Get your camera ready for your first glimpse of Machu Picchu!
Enjoy Your First Glance 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.
You’ll be eager to put on your hiking boots for your last day of trekking after you’ve filled up on fuel at breakfast. This morning, you’ll be able to walk along a bit of the original, world-famous Inca Trail! After a 2-hour uphill climb and fascinating views over the Santa Teresa Valley, you’ll reach Llactapata (2,700 m / 8,858 ft), an Inca archaeological site right in front of Machu Picchu.
Llactapata is the first Inca site you’ll see on the trek, and you’ll learn all about the mysteries of this ancient culture and the extraordinary site. You even get to have your first exciting glance at Machu Picchu and Huayna Picchu from here. Your guide will fill you in on all the history of the Incas while you take all the photos you want to share your fantastic experiences with friends and family back home.
Afterward, you’ll walk downhill for 1:30 hours, getting another couple of peeks at the Inca citadel, Machu Picchu, along the way - only making your anticipation for tomorrow stronger. We stop for lunch in Aobamba before we continue, for a half-hour, to Hidroeléctrica (1,800 m / 5,906 ft). One of the most impressive sites in this section is the 250-meter-tall artificial waterfall, which generates electricity for the entire city of Cusco.
Once in Hidroelectrica, you have two options: 1) If you’re tired out after all the trekking, you can opt to board a train to Aguas Calientes (not included). If you want to enjoy the last stretch of the trek, you can take the flat walk along the side of the tracks to Aguas Calientes, which takes around 3 hours. It’ll be one more chance to embrace the warm jungle surroundings as you hike.
Along the way, you’ll see Intihuatana, an ancient rock the Incas used as a sundial, which worked together with the sundial stone at Machu Picchu. These were used to measure and read the winter solstice, meaning the beginning of the farming season for the Incas. Next, you’ll reach the train tracks that lead to Aguas Calientes. Once in the small town, you’ll enjoy dinner at a restaurant and spend the night in a comfortable hotel.
Note: During the rainy season, and for safety reasons, the hike up the Llactapata Trail isn’t 100% guaranteed. When there’s frequent heavy rain, 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 allow you to travel back in time to one of the Seven Wonders of the World: The magnificent Machu Picchu.
Tour of the Incredible Incan Citadel: Machu Picchu
Today is the day you have been waiting for. You’ll finally visit one of the seven wonders of the modern world, Machu Picchu. After an early start to the day, you’ll head to the citadel to avoid the crowds. Once there, you’ll have an approximately two-hour guided tour and learn everything you need to know about the site while appreciating the wonderful scenery.
Afterward, you can climb an additional mountain if you booked your ticket in advance. You’ll return to Aguas Calientes for lunch and board your train to Ollantaytambo. From there, our transportation will take you back to your hotel in Cusco. It’s now time to rest after an unforgettable once-in-a-lifetime experience.
Today’s the day you’ve been waiting since you first set foot on the trail. You’ll finally visit one of the 7 Wonders of the World and UNESCO World Heritage Site – Machu Picchu! You’ll need to be up early today to make sure you beat the crowds and enjoy the serenity of the site in the early morning light.
Once in the Inca citadel, you’ll enjoy a guided tour of approximately two hours through the most relevant sectors of this incredible ancient site. You’ll see houses, temples, terraces, and crop fields, among others. You will be impressed by the intelligence of the Incas in terms of engineering work, which was way ahead of its time and remains a mystery in many aspects.
The Incas did not have the tools we use today, but they could still build and organize their community on the side of a mountain and even create a water system with aqueducts and canals.
Bonus Fact: When a Peruvian guide showed this site to Hiram Bingham, it was almost unrecognizable, covered in thick vegetation and disrepair. It’s since been cleaned and restored and is now protected and treasured by people from every corner of the globe.
After your tour, you can choose to go to Huayna Picchu Mountain (2,720 m / 8,924 ft) or Machu Picchu Mountain (3,000 m / 9,843 ft); these tours will take you 2 and 3 hours up and down, respectively (tickets must be booked in advance).
Make sure you’re back in Aguas Calientes for a spot of lunch before boarding your train to Ollantaytambo, which leaves at approximately 2:55 pm (subject to availability). Our private bus will collect you from the next station and drive you back to your hotel in Cusco at around 8 pm. You can now put your feet up and enjoy much-needed rest; however, your heart will still beat the Andes rhythm for many weeks, months, and years to come!
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
Machu Picchu Circuit 2 offers the most complete and popular route through the citadel, making it the most requested. Although included in this experience, availability is limited, so we strongly recommend booking at least three months in advance.
If Circuit 2 is unavailable, we will arrange Circuit 3-B, which explores the lower area of the citadel, including the urban sector and key ceremonial sites. If this is also sold out, Circuit 1-B will be arranged, covering mainly the upper panoramic area with the iconic postcard viewpoint.
High Quality Service & Safety
Pre-departure Briefing
You’ll meet your tour guide and group in our office for an orientation before your trek. There, we’ll provide you with the duffle bags, which our porters 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 in safety and quality service. Chosen for their experience, responsibility, and passion for exploration, they take pride in sharing our culture and history. With their guidance, you’ll stay informed, safe, and comfortable, ensuring a worry-free adventure and an unforgettable experience of a lifetime.
One Duffle Bag
For the trek, you’ll receive a duffel bag to pack your personal belongings, with a maximum weight limit of 5 kg (11 lb), which will be carried by our staff.
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.
Backpack Cover
Our attention to detail sets us apart—enjoy a backpack cover for comfort and protection on the trail.
Professional long-range walkie-talkies
Walkie-talkies optimize communication, ensuring quick response and coordination in key situations and locations.
Accommodation
Accommodation in Exclusive 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
Enjoy your final night in a cozy hotel with a double, matrimonial, or triple room, private bathroom, hot shower, WiFi, breakfast, and luggage storage while you explore Machu Picchu.
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 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
Before starting any tour, 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 journeys!
Transportation
Transport for the Salkantay Trek: Door-to-Door, Hassle-Free Service
- Day 1: You'll be picked up from your hotel in the morning and travel by private transportation to Challacancha, the trek's starting point.
- Day 3: Private transportation from Zona Propiedad to Lucmabamba.
- Day 5: Private transportation from Ollantaytambo train station to your hotel in Cusco.
One-Way Bus Ticket from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu (Day 5)
Train Ticket from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo (Day 5)
PeruRail Expedition Service
Personal belongings transportation (Duffle Bag)
During the trekking days, all camping equipment and your allowed luggage (max. 5 kg / 11 lb) will be carried by pack mules and, on some sections, transported by a private vehicle (van) or train, depending on the type of route.
What Is Not Included?
Sleeping Bag
You can rent sleeping bags from our company if you don’t have your own. Our bags are high-quality, durable, and designed to protect you in temperatures as low as -18ºC (0ºF). They are mummy-shaped and come with a sleeping liner for added warmth and hygiene. Each sleeping bag is thoroughly cleaned after every use.
- US$ 25.00 per person
Walking Sticks - You can rent Walking Sticks in our company at $25.00 per person.
Walking Sticks (with rubber tips) can be a great help on uneven terrain, especially during ascents and descents, as they reduce the impact on your knees and improve stability. If you don’t have your own, you can rent a pair from our company.
- US$ 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)
If you feel exhausted or unwell after the hike from Lucmabamba to Hidroelectrica, you have the option to take the train from Hidroelectrica to Aguas Calientes.
- From US$ 41.00 per person.
Personal Hiking Clothing and Gear
Travel Insurance
Tips for our staff
While our team receives fair salaries, any additional gesture is always appreciated in recognition of their hard work and dedication. Participants often choose to pool their tips and present them directly to the hiking team or through their guide.
Additional costs or delays beyond our control
This includes the occurrence of events such as landslides, adverse weather conditions, itinerary changes for safety reasons, illnesses, pandemics, changes in government policies, political instability, strikes, force majeure, and similar situations.
In most cases, we guarantee your tickets and full logistics in advance—paying ahead for permits, schedules, accommodations, supplies, and even staff mobilization to ensure everything is ready. Therefore, any additional costs that arise due to such unforeseen events must be covered by you, as we must also reorganize several aspects on our side.
We sincerely appreciate your understanding and cooperation in these circumstances.
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 5 kg / 11 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
Mountain Domes
Experience the tranquility of the Andes in Soraypampa, where our comfortable camps offer the perfect combination of adventure and relaxation. Surrounded by breathtaking mountain views, this is the ideal base for exploring the majestic Humantay Lake and the towering Salkantay peak.
- Location: Soraypampa
- Altitude: 3,900 m / 12,795 ft
- Cabins: 5 domes
- Capacity: 2 people per dome
- Facilities: Shared restrooms, and Wi-Fi
- Meals: Lunch, dinner, and breakfast
Mountain Sky View
Our Mountain Sky View camp, located in Collpapampa at 2,950 m (9,678 ft), is an outstanding viewpoint overlooking the Santa Teresa Valley, where comfort meets spectacular scenery. Designed to offer a private glamping experience in close connection with nature, it allows you to unwind after the hike with a hot shower in your own dome and rest surrounded by mountains, enjoying sunrises and sunsets that become an unforgettable part of your journey.
- Location: Collpapampa
- Altitude: 2,950 m / 9,678 ft
- Cabins: 37 cabins
- Capacity: 2 people per lodge
- Facilities: Dining room, private restrooms, hot shower, and Wi-Fi
- Meals: Dinner and breakfast
Super Jungle Domes
Our Super Jungle Domes, located in Lucmabamba at 2,000 m (6,562 ft), immerse you in the heart of the tropical rainforest, where nature awakens all your senses. Surrounded by lush vegetation and the vibrant sounds of the forest, these domes combine total immersion with comfort, offering cozy spaces, a private bathroom with hot shower, electricity, and Wi-Fi. Designed to maintain a pleasant temperature and protect you from humidity and insects, they allow you to fully rest while enjoying open views of the surrounding landscape.
- Location: Lucmabamba
- Altitude: 2,000 m / 6,562 ft
- Super Jungle Domes: 17 domes
- Capacity: 2 people per dome
- Facilities: Private restrooms, hot shower, and Wi-Fi
- Meals: Lunch, dinner, and breakfast
Accommodation in Aguas Calientes
Selected Hotels
We offer a selection of well located hotels with very comfortable and tasteful decorated rooms. You’ll find impeccable, clean rooms and beds, adequate toilets and showers. A perfect place to rest before the great day!
- Location: Aguas Calientes
- Rooms: Single, Double, Twin, and Triple
- Facilities: Dining room, kitchen, toilets, warm showers, Wi-Fi
- Meals included: Breakfast
"The Salkantay Mountain Domes Trek to 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.
2026 Land Cost
Group Price: US$ 695.00 per person
Required Pre-payment: US$ 350.00 per person
Balance (Cusco): US$ 345.00 (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$ 35.00
- Extra Night at Aguas Calientes: from US$ 60.00 to US$ 100.00
- Vistadome Train (Aguas Calientes - Ollantaytambo): from US$ 70.00 to US$ 150.00
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$ 120.00 US$ 100.00
- Pallay Punchu Rainbow Mountain: US$ 120.00 US$ 100.00
- Waqrapukara Tour: US$ 120.00 US$ 100.00
- Ausangate Seven Lakes: US$ 120.00 US$ 100.00
- 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
Machu Picchu tickets from March to August—especially Circuit 2, the most complete and most requested route—are already sold out on many dates.
For new bookings during these months, if Circuit 2 is not available for your travel date, we’ll gladly secure the best available alternative for you. Our first option will be Circuit 3, which offers a longer and more immersive walk through the lower urban sector. If that’s not available either, we’ll arrange Circuit 1, known for its beautiful panoramic views and the classic postcard photo.
All ticket options are always subject to availability at the time of purchase, and we’ll make sure to secure the best possible experience for your visit.
