Glamping in Collpapampa, Peru during the Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu

The Salkantay Premium Private Trek to Machu Picchu

5 Days & 4 Nights
Starting from US$1460 per person
Accommodation Icon
Private Camps & Hotel Accommodation
Group Size Icon
From 2 People Group Size
Max. Altitude Icon
4,630 m / 15,190 ft Max. Altitude
Difficulty Icon
Moderate to Challenging Difficulty

An Exclusive Salkantay Trek Experience

Humantay Lake - Salkantay Pass - Mountain Sky view - Cusco Rainforest - Machu Picchu
Accommodation Icon
Private Camps & Hotel Accommodation
Group Size Icon
From 2 People Group Size
Max. Altitude Icon
4,630 m / 15,190 ft Max. Altitude
Difficulty Icon
Moderate to Challenging Difficulty

After spending some time in Cusco, the capital of the Inca Empire, join us on the Salkantay trek to the Wonder of the World, Machu Picchu. The best alternative route to the Inca citadel will take you to the impressive Humantay Lagoon and the imposing Salkantay Mountain through the fascinating cloud forest and then to the edge of the Peruvian jungle.

Each night you will spend in comfortable and exclusive lodges where you can enjoy the tastiest meals in the middle of the mountains. Experienced guides will accompany you all the way to explain the history and nature of the region. Enjoy this route with excitement and great company.

The Private Salkantay Trek Map to Machu Picchu 5 Days Map Day by Day The Private Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu Map
  • Overview
  • Itinerary
  • Inclusions
  • Before You Go
  • Packing List
  • Accommodation
  • Pricing
  • Enquire Now
  Overview

If you want to enjoy one of the best trekking routes in the world, our Premium Private Salkantay 5-day trek is for you. It combines the most exciting hiking routes with the most incredible landscapes imaginable. Prepare to pass through snow-capped mountain peaks before descending through the cloud forest. You will finish 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 captivate you, but you will also see some fascinating destinations on many travelers' bucket lists. On the first day, we will hike up to the impressive Humantay Lake, which sits like a turquoise gem amidst the snowy backdrop. The next day, we will tackle the challenging trail up to Abra Salkantay to see the majestic Salkantay Mountain. Afterward, you can visit the enigmatic Inca archaeological site of Llactapata and get the first glimpse of Machu Picchu.

As if that wasn't enough to get your heartbeat racing, what better way to end the quintessential trip by exploring the lost city of the Incas, Machu Picchu. You'll enjoy a guided tour of approximately two hours before climbing Huayna Picchu Mountain or Machu Picchu Mountain (if you booked your tickets in advance) 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 our Premium Private Salkantay 5-day trek.

Itinerary at a Glance

  • Day 01

    Cusco - Mollepata - Challacancha - Soraypampa - Humantay Lake - Sky Camp

    This morning, hike to Soraypampa and enjoy a delicious lunch before walking up to Humantay Lake in the afternoon. Spent the night in our Sky Camp at Soraypampa.

  • Day 02

    Soraypampa - Salkantay Pass - Huayracmachay - Chaullay - Collpapampa (Mountain Sky View)

    Today you will ride up a challenging trail to the Abra Salkantay to see the Salkantay Mountain before descending through the cloud forest. Overnight at our exclusive Mountain Sky View Campsite in Collpapampa.

  • Day 03

    Collpapampa - Loreta - La Playa - Lucmabamba - Cocalmayo - Super Jungle Domes

    You will walk through the lush jungle and visit an organic coffee farm. In the afternoon, you will relax in the thermo-medicinal waters of Cocalmayo. At night, you will sleep surrounded by nature in our Jungle Domes.

  • Day 04

    Lucmabamba - Llactapata - Aobamba - Hidroelectrica - Aguas Calientes

    In the morning, you will hike to the Inca archaeological site of Llactapata and appreciate Machu Picchu for the first time before heading to Aguas Calientes.

  • Day 05

    Aguas Calientes - Machu Picchu - Ollantaytambo - Cusco

    Today is a great day! You will spend the morning exploring Machu Picchu before returning to Aguas Calientes. Then, you will board the Vistadome train to Ollantaytambo, where our private transportation will take you back to Cusco.

What's it like

Highlights

  • The Salkantay Trek is listed as 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.
  • Apart from the Inca Trail, Salkantay is one of the most famous and less frequented routes to Machu Picchu.
  • 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.
  • Exploring the ancient citadel of Machu Picchu is one of the greatest experiences in the world.

Why Travel with us

  Itinerary
Day 01

Cusco - Mollepata - Challacancha - Soraypampa - Humantay Lake - Sky Camp

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

Meals Icon
Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner Meals
Accommodation Icon
Glass-Topped Sky Camp Accommodation
Difficulty Icon
Moderate to Challenging Difficulty
Walking Distance Icon
10 km / 6.21 mi Walking Distance
Walking Time Icon
5-6 hours Walking Time
Starting Elevation Icon
3,800 m / 12,467 ft Starting Elevation
Min. Elevation Icon
3,800 m / 12,467 ft Min. Elevation
Highest Elevation Icon
4,200 m / 13,780 ft Highest Elevation
Campsite Elevation Icon
3,900 m / 12,795 ft Campsite Elevation

Today we will get an early start and head in our private transportation to Mollepata to enjoy a delicious breakfast before continuing to Challacancha, the starting point of the trek. Then, we will hike for about three hours to Soraypampa and settle in our exclusive Sky Camp. After an energizing lunch and a well-deserved rest, we will ascend to the impressive jewel of the mountain, the Humantay Lake, a three-hour round trip before descending for a tasty dinner and a well-deserved sleep.

You will start bright and early with a pickup from your hotel around 4:00 a.m. You will travel in our private transportation with blankets in case you wish to sleep a little longer during the trip. We will stop in Mollepata to enjoy a delicious breakfast, and then we will continue to Challacancha, the starting point of the trek.

Before starting our adventure, you will meet the cooks and the muleteers; you will also check your luggage for the last time, and then we will head out on the trail. You will begin with a moderate three-hour hike to Soraypampa (3,900 m / 12,795 ft), where we will spend our first night. The beginning of the section is relatively flat, with a slight ascent through a deep glacier valley. You will notice that much of the trail follows a restored Inca water channel, which local farmers still use today. This trail is 7 km / 4.35 miles in total.

Once in Soraypampa, you will settle into our exclusive Sky Camp and have time to rest before enjoying your first lunch amidst the mountains. After recharging your energy, we will start hiking to the beautiful Humantay Lake (4,200 m /13,780 ft). This round trip takes three hours and covers 3 km / 1.86 miles. It's not far, but take it easy at this altitude. Once you reach the lagoon, you will have time to enjoy the fantastic scenery. Not many places in the Andes are as impressive as the turquoise waters glistening against the Humantay glacier. You will truly feel like you are in a fairy tale.

Upon returning to camp, you will enjoy a well-deserved dinner in the company of a beautiful sunset. There is no way to describe the energy here, you will feel the tranquility once you arrive. Afterward, you can rest in your igloo at Sky Camp. From the glass roof, you will enjoy a night under the stars, constellations, and comets. In the morning, you will wake up and see the Apu Salkantay in front of you.

Day 02

Soraypampa - Salkantay Pass - Huayracmachay - Chaullay - Collpapampa (Mountain Sky View)

Highlight of the day: Witnessing the energy and hugely powerful gigantic Salkantay Mountain

The Stunning Salkantay Pass and Descent to the Amazon Jungle

Meals Icon
Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner Meals
Accommodation Icon
Mountain Sky View Campsite Accommodation
Difficulty Icon
Challenging Difficulty
Walking Distance Icon
23.5 km / 14.6 mi Walking Distance
Walking Time Icon
10 - 11 hours Walking Time
Starting Elevation Icon
3,900 m / 12,795 ft Starting Elevation
Min. Elevation Icon
2,900 m / 9,514 ft Min. Elevation
Highest Elevation Icon
4,630 m / 15,190 ft Highest Elevation
Campsite Elevation Icon
2,950 m / 9,678 ft Campsite Elevation

Today is the most challenging, but the reward will be great as you’ll get fantastic views and wonderful landscapes. After tasting our breakfast, we will ride on a horse for approximately two hours to the Salkantay Pass, where we will spend time photographing the breathtaking panorama. Afterward, we will descend through the cloud forest to our lunch point before continuing to the jungle's edge amidst exotic scenery. Finally, we will arrive at the exclusive Mountain Sky View in Collpapampa for the night.

Today you will wake up with the first rays of light and an energizing coca tea to give you energy. Enjoy a nutritious breakfast before setting out on a two-hour horseback ride to the highest point, the Abra Salkantay (4,630 m / 15,190 ft). It is a challenging ascent, but riding a horse along the "path of the 7 snakes" will make it less demanding. You are also free to conquer this section on foot!

When you reach the summit, you will be able to see the magnificent Salkantay mountain standing next to you at 6,271 m / 20,574 ft. Salkantay boasts the second-highest mountain in the Cusco region and is considered one of the Inca Gods or Apus. You will also get stunning perspectives of the valleys below and see the mountains of Humantay, Tucarhuay, and Pumasillo. After enjoying the views, we’ll start descending 7 km / 4.35 miles to Wayracmachay to savor a revitalizing lunch.

This section of the trail is rocky and steep but has impressive views of the valley. You will be entering the edge of the rainforest, also known as the "cloud forest." This hike has a distance of 9.5 km / 5.9 miles and lasts approximately three and a half hours. Along the way, you will see the magical green forests showing due to the quick change between the Andes and the Amazon. You will also observe colorful landscapes, unique wildlife, and native plants and feel the warmer climate.

At the end of this incredible day, you will arrive at Collpapampa to spend the night. Finally, you will be served a hearty meal before resting in our exclusive Mountain Sky View Campsite.

Day 03

Collpapampa - Loreta - La Playa - Lucmabamba - Cocalmayo - Super Jungle Domes

Highlight of the day: Explore the lush jungle and learn all about coffee. Relax in the hot springs.

Live the coffee experience

Meals Icon
Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner Meals
Accommodation Icon
Super Jungle Domes Accommodation
Difficulty Icon
Moderate Difficulty
Walking Distance Icon
17 km / 10.5 mi Walking Distance
Walking Time Icon
5-6 hours Walking Time
Starting Elevation Icon
2,950 m / 9,678 ft Starting Elevation
Min. Elevation Icon
2,000 m / 6,562 ft Min. Elevation
Highest Elevation Icon
2,950 m / 9,678 ft Highest Elevation
Campsite Elevation Icon
2,000 m / 6,562 ft Campsite Elevation

Today your adventure continues with a hike through the jungle of the Santa Teresa Valley, where you will observe a lush landscape of rivers, waterfalls, orchids, and many plantations: banana, coffee, and avocado. You will arrive at our campsite at lunchtime to rest before enjoying a free afternoon to explore the surroundings and visit an organic coffee farm. Afterward, you will take a relaxing bath in the hot springs of Cocalmayo to recover your energy. In the evening, you will rest in our Jungle Domes, listening to the sounds of nature.

Today we will start the day around 6:00 a.m. for hot tea and breakfast before leaving the camp. Then, we will walk through the Santa Teresa Valley until we reach our first destination, La Playa. During the tour, we will take a more leisurely walk, with more downhills than uphills, as we immerse ourselves in the lush landscape of rivers, waterfalls, orchids, and various plantations: banana, coffee, and avocado. In addition, you may be lucky enough to see Peru's national bird, the "Gallito de las Rocas."

At La Playa, we will enjoy lunch before heading for an hour to Lucmabamba (2,000 m / 6,562 ft), where our campsite is located. In the afternoon, you will have free time to explore the tropical surroundings and visit an organic coffee farm, perfect for coffee lovers. Even if you are not a fan of a cup of coffee, the smell in the air is delicious. This is the primary agricultural industry in the jungle that exports products to the United States, Asia, and Europe. You will also visit avocado and orange plantations.

After this incredible experience, you will go to the hot springs of Cocalmayo to take a comforting bath and relax after several days of hiking. You will take a break and feel the tranquility of the surroundings. Later, you will return to Lucmabamba to spend the night in our Jungle Domes. While resting, you can listen to the different sounds of nature and feel in harmony with mother earth.

Day 04

Lucmabamba - Llactapata - Aobamba - Hidroelectrica - Aguas Calientes

Highlight of the day: Visiting 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

Meals Icon
Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner Meals
Accommodation Icon
Comfortable Hotel Accommodation
Difficulty Icon
Challenging Difficulty
Walking Distance Icon
14 km / 8.7 miles Walking Distance
Walking Time Icon
8-9 hours Walking Time
Starting Elevation Icon
2,000 m / 6,562 ft Starting Elevation
Min. Elevation Icon
1,800 m / 5,906 ft Min. Elevation
Highest Elevation Icon
2,800 m / 9,186 ft Highest Elevation
Accommodation Elevation Icon
2,040 m / 6,693 ft Accommodation Elevation

Today's adventure gets more exciting as you hike along some of the original Inca Trail. You will walk for two hours to an Inca archaeological site, Llactapata. You will learn all about the history and get your first view of Machu Picchu. Then, you will descend for lunch in Aobamba before heading to Hidroeléctrica. From here, you will board the train to Aguas Calientes for dinner at a restaurant and spend the night in a comfortable hotel.

After a hearty breakfast, you will hike some of the original and world-famous Inca Trail. After climbing for two hours and enjoying fascinating views over the Santa Teresa valley, you will arrive at Llactapata (2,700 m / 8,858 ft), an Inca archaeological site located in front of Machu Picchu.

Llactapata is the first Inca complex you will see on the hike, and you will learn all about the mysteries of this ancient culture and the extraordinary site. Even from here, you will get a first glimpse of Machu Picchu and Huayna Picchu. Our guide will explain the history of the Incas while you take as many pictures as you want as a souvenir to share your fantastic experiences with your friends and family back home.

Afterward, you will descend for an hour and a half, being able to watch the Inca citadel, Machu Picchu, from afar. This will encourage your expectations to make tomorrow more exciting. We will stop in Aobamba for lunch before continuing for half an hour to Hidroeléctrica (1,800 m / 5,906 ft). One of the most impressive sights on this stretch is the 250-meter-high artificial waterfall that generates electricity for the entire city of Cusco.

Once in Hidroeléctrica, you will board the train that will take you to Aguas Calientes, appreciating the best scenery along the way. In this small town, you will enjoy dinner at an exclusive restaurant and spend the night in a comfortable hotel.

Note: During the rainy season, and for safety reasons, hiking the Llactapata trail is not 100% guaranteed. When there are frequent heavy rains, this trail can become very dangerous.

Day 05

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 Majestic Machu Picchu.

Tour of the Incredible Inca Citadel of Machu Picchu

Meals Icon
Breakfast Meals
Difficulty Icon
Easy Difficulty
Optional Activities (Difficulty - Duration) Icon
2-3 hours exploring Machu Picchu Optional Activities (Difficulty - Duration)
Machu Picchu Site Elevation Icon
2,430 m / 7,972 ft Machu Picchu Site Elevation
Optional Mountains Icon
Moderate to Challenging Optional Mountains
Machu Picchu Mountain Elevation Icon
3,000 m / 9,843 ft (3 - 4 hours) Machu Picchu Mountain Elevation
Huayna Picchu Mountain Elevation Icon
2,720 m / 8,924 ft (2 hours) Huayna Picchu Mountain Elevation
Huchuy Picchu Mountain Elevation Icon
2,497 m / 8,192 ft (1.5 hours) Huchuy Picchu Mountain Elevation

Today is the day you have been waiting for. You'll finally visit one of the seven wonders of the modern world, Machu Picchu. Early in the morning, we'll head by bus 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. Later, you can climb one of the additional mountains if you book your ticket in advance.

We return to Aguas Calientes for a leisure lunch and then board the Vistadome train to Ollantaytambo. There, our private transport will take you back to your hotel in Cusco.

Today is the day you have been waiting since you started your trek. You will finally visit one of the seven wonders of the world and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Machu Picchu. You will have to get up early to avoid the crowds and enjoy the serenity of the place in the morning light.

After going up to the Inca citadel by bus, you'll enjoy a guided tour of approximately two hours to this incredible ancient site to see temples, houses, palaces, and cultivated fields, among others. You'll be impressed by the intelligence of the Incas in terms of engineering work, which was far ahead of its time and remains a mystery in many respects.

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. Since then, it has been cleaned and restored; today, it is protected and treasured by people from every corner of the world.

After your guided tour, you can choose to climb Huayna Picchu Mountain (2,720 m / 8,924 ft) or Machu Picchu Mountain (3,000 m / 9,843 ft) if you book your tickets in advance. These treks will take you two, and three hours up and down, respectively.

Later, we will return to Aguas Calientes for lunch before boarding the Vistadome train to Ollantaytambo, with the best panoramic views along the way. Upon arrival in Ollantaytambo, our private transportation will pick you up and take you back to your hotel in Cusco. Finally, you will take a well-deserved rest; however, your heart will continue to beat to the rhythm of the Andes for many weeks, months, and years to come.

  Inclusions

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

What Is Included?

Permits & Entrance Tickets

  • Entrance Ticket to Salkantay Trek
  • Entrance Ticket to Cocalmayo Hot Springs
  • Entrance Ticket to Machu Picchu Archaeological Site

High Quality Service & Safety

  • Pre-departure briefing

    You will meet your trekking guide and group in our office for an orientation before your trek. At this time, we will 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 Guide

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

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

    We have dining rooms and a kitchen on each campsite. In addition, all our equipment, like tables, chairs, cooking equipment, etc., will be carried by our horses.

  • One Duffle Bag

    There, you can carry your personal belongings up to a maximum weight of 12 kg / 26.5 lbs (this weight includes your sleeping bag).

  • Sleeping Bag

    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.

  • Trekking Poles with rubber tips
  • Medical Kit or First Aid Kit

    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

    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.

  • Horse from Soraypampa to Salkantay Pass (Day 2)
  • 24/7 Customer Service

    We have telephone service available 24 hours a day for ease of communication and preparation with the agency leading up to your trek.

  • Satellite phones

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

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.

  • Superior 3-star hotel in Aguas Calientes

    You will spend the last night of this trek in a comfortable hotel at Aguas Calientes, including luggage storage while visiting Machu Picchu.

Meals

  • 5 Breakfasts, 4 Lunches, and 4 Dinners

    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

    We will provide you boiled, filtered, and cooled water from your breakfast in Soraypampa to your lunch in La Playa. For it, you need to bring a camel bag or an empty bottle (we recommend a capacity of 2 liters).

  • Wake up tea

    Every morning at the campsite, you’ll be woken up with a cup of coca tea. Our staff will bring the tea to your bed so that you’re warmed from the inside out before you start your day.

  • Tea Time or Happy Hour

    Every afternoon before dinner, the cooks will provide you popcorn, biscuits, 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

    Every morning we’ll give you snacks so you can enjoy them during the walk. Your tour leader will provide you a cloth bag with local fruits, biscuits, chocolate, caramels, etc., at the beginning of each day.

  • One cloth snack bag per person

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

  • Products for hygiene

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

Transportation

  • Transport
    • Day 0: A Salkantay Trekking representative will be waiting for you at the Cusco airport to take you directly to your hotel.
    • 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 Lucmabamba/ La Playa to the thermal baths of Cocalmayo.
    • Day 5: Round-Trip Bus Ticket from Aguas Calientes - Machu Picchu
    • Day 5: Private transport from Ollantaytambo train station to your hotel in Cusco.
  • Train Tickets
    • Day 4: PeruRail Train Ticket from Hidroelectrica to Aguas Calientes
    • Day 5: Train Ticket from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo (Vistadome Service)
  • Personal Belongings Transportation
    • 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?

  • Huayna Picchu Mountain

    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

    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 roads than Huayna Picchu, and it takes 1.5 hours to reach the top. This walk requires an entrance ticket which we can assure you if we have time in advance.

    • The ticket for Machu Picchu Mountain costs US$ 60.00 per person.
  • Lunch in Aguas Calientes and Dinner in Cusco (Day 5)
  • Personal Clothing and Gear
  • Travel Insurance
  • Tips for our staff

    Tipping is usual on any excursion to Machu Picchu. Although we pay good salaries to our entire team, something extra is always welcome, especially considering their hard work. 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.

  Before You Go

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

Is it for me?

The Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu is an excellent alternative for 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) is not too strenuous nor very steep since it is 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’s very important to be well acclimated to the altitude before exerting yourself on a trek. We recommend that you arrive in Cusco at least 2 or 3 days before the trek starts to help you adjust and avoid possible problems with altitude sickness while on the trek.

You might 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.

Duffle Bag or Travel Bag

The evening before the trek, we'll provide you with a duffle bag to pack your clothes and personal gear needed for the trip. Our horsemen will carry it on the route and hand it to you once you get to each camp. Please note that you will not have access to your items in the bag until the end of each day.

The maximum weight allowed is 7 kg / 15.4 lb, including the weight of your sleeping bag, clothes, and other personal items. They measure 60 x 24 x 22 cm (23.6 x 9.4 x 8.7 in).

Can I store my luggage at your office?

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

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

Pick up of guests

Please note:

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

Return to Cusco

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

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

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.

  Packing List

WHAT SHOULD YOU BRING?

ESSENTIAL

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

CLOTHING

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

EQUIPMENT

Medium trekking backpack (15 - 25 liter)
Medium trekking backpack (15 - 25 liter)

RECOMMENDED

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

Private & Exclusive Campsites

Sky Camp

Our incredible Sky Camp is located in front of the impressive mountains Humantay and Salkantay. This campsite allows for the perfect union of sky and earth. It allows you to sleep calmly under a deep, blue sky starred with an exceptional view of the constellations. At the same time, you can enjoy all the comforts of a first-class vacation home.

  • Location: Soraypampa
  • Altitude: 3,900 m / 12,795 ft
  • Igloos: 26
  • Capacity: 2 people per Igloo
  • 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

Super Jungle Domes

Super Jungle Domes in Lucmabamba

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: 8
  • 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
  Pricing

"The Salkantay Premium Private 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.

2025 Land Cost

Private Price (per person): US$1460.00 per person

Required Pre-payment: US$ 500.00 per person

Balance (Cusco): Typically paid in Cusco two days before the start of your expedition.

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

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 village rather than camping (shared room included in the trek cost). If you’d like to upgrade your hotel or prefer a single room, please consider that there will be an additional cost.

Extras & Upgrades

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

  • Huayna Picchu:  US$ 60.00
  • Machu Picchu Mountain:  US$ 60.00
  • Huchuy Picchu Mountain:  US$ 45.00
  • Single Supplement (Hotel at Aguas Calientes):  US$ 80.00 per person
  • Extra Night at Aguas Calientes:  US$ 150.00 per Single, Double, or Twin room

Extensions & Offers

There are several extensions you can include to your fascinating Peru Adventure:

  • City Tour:  US$ 50.00 US$ 40.00
  • Sacred Valley of the Incas:  US$ 100.00 US$ 80.00
  • Andean Textiles, 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$ 100.00 US$ 80.00
  • Waqrapukara Tour:  US$ 100.00 US$ 80.00
  • Ausangate Seven Lakes:  US$ 100.00 US$ 80.00
  • Qeswachaka Inca Bridge:  US$ 100.00 US$ 80.00

Price Guarantee

Once your booking has been confirmed we guarantee the price will not increase, whatever the circumstances. Before booking please ensure you have read our important tour pricing information

Student Discount

US$20.00 off

Student discounts apply to anyone 17-years-old or younger, and we need a copy of their passport at booking time. Please send all to info@salkantaytrekking.com.

  Enquire Now

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

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

Personal Details

Trip Details

Salkantay Premium Private Trek 5D
14 years and above
Below 14 years
7 + 3 =

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

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

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

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

Triunfo Street 346 - Main Square of Cusco, Peru

Customer Support
Exciting Treks in Cusco icon

Related Peru Treks

Alternative journeys you may be interested in

Here you have other options that will suit your needs from the Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu

Exciting Treks in Cusco icon

Related Articles

Explorations Journal

Just looking for inspiration? Take a look at our latest blog posts below.

Logotype Certified Covid Control Service Logotype Latin American Excellence Model Tourism Quality Peru Logotype TRIPADVISOR Excellence Certificate Tourism Quality Trekking TourCert International Responsible Tourism

Travel Associations & Certifications

From US$1460

Start a Conversation

Hi! Click one our members below to chat on WhatsApp