Salkantay Premium Trek : The Most Amazing Route to Machu Picchu
The Salkantay Private Trek is one of the most incredible alternatives to the classic Inca Trail, offering an unforgettable journey through the Andes with breathtaking views, ancient ruins, and authentic Peruvian culture.
Unlike crowded tours, the Salkantay Premium Trek gives you personalized attention, flexibility, and a deeper connection with nature and Inca history. Perfect for adventurers who want an exclusive, off-the-beaten-path journey to Machu Picchu.
Embark on an unforgettable adventure along the Salkantay Trek, considered one of the most breathtaking routes in the Peruvian Andes. Hike beneath the towering snow-capped peak of Salkantay, immerse yourself in the rich culture of local Andean communities, and uncover the secrets of ancient Inca ruins hidden along the trail.
This once-in-a-lifetime journey culminates with a scenic train ride to Aguas Calientes, followed by an early-morning visit to the majestic citadel of Machu Picchu—one of the New Seven Wonders of the World.
Highlight of the day: Discover the sacred mountains of Humantay and Salkantay, and the stunning turquoise Humantay Lake.
We’ll begin your Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu by picking you up from your hotel in Cusco between 4:30 and 4:45 a.m. Our private Tunqui Expeditions vehicle will take us on a 3-hour drive to Challacancha, where you’ll enjoy your first breakfast prepared by our trekking chef.
After breakfast, we’ll start a 3-hour hike to Soraypampa, walking along a restored Inca aqueduct that once supplied water to the nearby agricultural communities of Mollepata. In Soraypampa, a delicious lunch will be waiting for us.
Later, we’ll hike 2 hours uphill to the breathtaking Humantay Lake (4,200 m / 13,779 ft). Along the way, keep an eye out for Andean wildlife like deer, vizcachas (similar to rabbits), and Andean geese. After exploring the lake, we return downhill to our campsite at Salkantay Pampa (3,900 m / 12,795 ft).
Enjoy tea time and a hearty dinner before relaxing under the stars at our first mountain campsite.
Highlight of the day: Reach the majestic Salkantay Pass and descend into the high jungle.
Wake up to a warm cup of coca tea or coffee and spectacular views of the snow-covered Salkantay Mountain. After breakfast, we’ll begin a challenging 2-hour ascent to the highest point of the trek: Salkantay Pass (4,630 m / 15,190 ft) via the steep “trail of the 7 serpents.”
From the top, you’ll get a panoramic view of the glacier-capped Salkantay (6,271 m / 20,574 ft)—the second-highest peak in the Cusco region and considered an Apu, or sacred mountain. You’ll also spot Humantay, Tucarhuay, and Pumasillo.
We then descend 7 km (4.3 mi) to Huayracmachay (3,850 m / 12,631 ft) for lunch, followed by a scenic 9.5 km (5.9 mi) trek into the lush cloud forest toward Collpapampa.
Expect a dramatic shift in climate and environment as we hike through vibrant green forests, waterfalls, and colorful valleys. After this long but rewarding day, we’ll enjoy a well-earned dinner at our jungle campsite.
Highlight of the day: Connect with the local culture by visiting an organic coffee farm and enjoying a traditional cooking class.
After a nourishing breakfast, we continue the Salkantay Trek into the Peruvian jungle. Along the trail, we’ll explore coffee plantations and fruit orchards, learning how local farmers produce high-quality Peruvian coffee. You’ll experience the full process: harvesting, roasting, grinding, and finally tasting your fresh cup.
Next, enjoy a unique Andean cooking class led by our chef. After lunch, we hike 2.5 hours along an ancient Inca Trail to Llactapata, an archaeological site with incredible panoramic views of Machu Picchu, Huayna Picchu, and Machu Picchu Mountain.
We camp at a private site exclusively used by Tunqui Expeditions, with sunset views over the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu. Enjoy a peaceful tea time, hot dinner, and an unforgettable night under the Milky Way, just as the ancient Incas once did.
Highlight of the day: Wake up to the sunrise over Machu Picchu, right from your tent.
After breakfast, we hike 2 hours downhill to Hydroelectric Station, passing a 300-meter waterfall that powers Cusco’s electricity. Enjoy your final lunch prepared by our trekking chef, and take a moment to thank the porters and team who made this trek possible.
We then hike 3 hours along the railway tracks beside the Urubamba River, passing Mandor Gardens, where Hiram Bingham was guided by the local farmer Arteaga before “rediscovering” Machu Picchu in 1911. You’ll also see native wildlife like toucans, parrots, hummingbirds, orchids, and even the Andean Cock-of-the-Rock (Tunqui).
Once we reach Aguas Calientes, check in to your hotel and enjoy free time. You may relax at the hot springs before meeting the group for a delicious dinner and a briefing for the big day ahead.
Highlight of the day: Visit the magical citadel of Machu Picchu, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and New Wonder of the World.
After an early breakfast, we take the first bus to Machu Picchu to arrive before the crowds. Your guide will take you to the best sunrise viewpoint and then lead a 2.5-hour guided tour of the main sectors, plazas, and temples of the Lost City of the Incas.
After the tour, you can explore more on your own or hike Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain (must be booked in advance – $75 per person).
Around noon, return to Aguas Calientes for lunch (not included) before taking the panoramic train to Ollantaytambo and then our private transfer back to Cusco.
This is the perfect ending to an epic adventure through the Andes and Amazon that you’ll never forget.
At Tunqui Expeditions, we want your trekking experience in Peru to be seamless and unforgettable. That’s why we take care of every logistical detail on your behalf. Please review this information carefully to ensure you don’t miss anything important before booking.
Note: Some elements may vary slightly depending on the specific tour. Please read carefully before confirming your reservation.
You will meet your trekking guide and group at our main office in Cusco the day before your trek at 5:00 p.m. During this meeting, we’ll review the itinerary and provide your duffel bag, which will be carried by horses during the trek. This bag has a weight limit of 8 kg (17.6 lbs) and should include your sleeping bag and inflatable mattress if you’re bringing or renting one.
All our guides are licensed professionals fluent in both English and Spanish. They are graduates of the Tourism program at the National University of San Antonio Abad in Cusco and have extensive knowledge of Andean culture, Inca history, and local ecosystems. They’re passionate about sharing their heritage, responsible, and highly trained to ensure your comfort and safety.
All Tunqui Expeditions guides are certified in first aid and receive mandatory training every February. Your guide will carry a full first aid kit and emergency oxygen, and we’ll coordinate evacuation if needed. Private Camping Equipment
All gear is carried by our team of muleteers and porters:
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.
24/7 Customer Support
Satellite Phone
Every guide carries a fully charged satellite phone for emergency contact and guest use if needed. This is a key safety feature not offered by all operators.
We provide boiled, filtered, and cooled water from your first lunch to the final breakfast. Bring your own CamelBak or bottle (minimum 2L capacity) to refill during meals.
At Tunqui Expeditions, we aim to provide a complete and worry-free experience on the Salkantay Trail. However, there are some items not included in the standard package. Below is a detailed list of what’s not covered and may require an additional fee or personal preparation.
We strongly recommend purchasing travel insurance that covers trip cancellations, medical emergencies, and unexpected delays during your journey.
While our porters, chefs, and guides receive fair wages, tipping is customary and always appreciated for the hard work and dedication of the team. Most groups pool their tips to distribute fairly among the porters and kitchen crew.
Unpredictable factors such as landslides, severe weather, health issues, government policy changes, political instability, strikes, or other force majeure events may affect the itinerary. These are not the responsibility of Tunqui Expeditions and may lead to extra costs.
Huayna Picchu is the iconic peak located to the north of Machu Picchu, famous for its steep stairs and stunning panoramic views of the citadel below. The hike takes about 45 minutes and is ideal for adventurous travelers who are not afraid of heights.
At Tunqui Expeditions, we want your trip to Peru to be as memorable and worry-free as possible. In this section, you’ll find answers to the most frequently asked questions about hiking the Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu. Please read the following information carefully—it will help you understand our services better and prepare for your adventure.
Still have questions? Just contact us—we’ll get back to you as soon as possible!
The Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu is a fantastic alternative to the Inca Trail and is ideal for more adventurous hikers who can manage higher altitudes and longer distances. The ascent to the Salkantay Pass (4,630 m / 15,190 ft) takes place early in the trek and is not overly steep or exhausting, but it does require stamina and acclimatization in Cusco before you begin.
Altitude acclimatization is key. We highly recommend arriving in Cusco at least 2 to 3 days before your trek starts to help your body adjust and reduce the risk of altitude sickness.
Even if you’ve already visited other high-altitude areas in Peru, we still suggest taking at least one full day in Cusco to rest and enjoy the city before the hike.
Recommended activities around Cusco before your trek:
All briefings are held at 5:00 PM the day before your trek at our main office in Cusco—or your hotel, if arranged. Each session lasts around 30 to 45 minutes.
If you can’t attend, please contact us by email, phone, or by visiting our office to arrange an alternative time.
If you have an outstanding balance, it must be paid at least 2 days before the trek. Failure to do so will result in your tour not being confirmed.
We greatly appreciate cash payments in US dollars or Peruvian soles at our Cusco office. You’ll find multiple ATMs along Avenida El Sol that dispense both currencies.
Alternatively, you may pay using a credit/debit card or PayPal—either online or in person—but please note: a 5% service fee is added by our payment gateway (Niubiz) and PayPal.
Checks or traveler’s checks are not accepted.
You’ll receive a duffel bag during your briefing, which will be carried by our muleteers and handed to you at each campsite. The bag size is 60 x 24 x 22 cm (23.6 x 9.45 x 8.66 in).
You’re allowed up to 7 kg / 15.4 lbs, including your sleeping bag and sleeping pad.
Absolutely! You may safely store your main luggage in our office or at your hotel while you’re on the trek—free of charge.
Any items not needed on the trail can stay at your accommodation. Most hotels offer luggage storage, but we strongly recommend keeping valuables in your hotel’s safe, and asking for a detailed receipt (often required by insurance in case of loss). For added peace of mind, seal sensitive items like credit cards in a signed envelope.
We offer hotel pick-up from any location within Cusco’s Historic Center.
Your guide will confirm the exact time during the briefing, but note that delays of 30–45 minutes may occur due to traffic.
Important: Many hotels and Airbnbs are located on steep, narrow, or car-inaccessible streets. We recommend choosing accommodations with easy vehicle access to ensure smooth logistics.
Group treks include participants of all ages and fitness levels. By joining, you agree that some may walk faster or slower than you, and everyone is encouraged to go at their own pace.
If any changes to the itinerary are requested, your guide will make the final decision, consulting with the group when necessary.
Returning to Cusco involves multiple steps—but don’t worry, everything is included in your tour!
Protests and road blockades are fairly common in Peru and may disrupt some tours. Roadways and railways may be temporarily closed. We’ll do our best to maintain your original itinerary, even if that means leaving a night early.
If your tour is affected, our Operations Team will coordinate all changes with you. Your safety is our top priority, and we’ll act accordingly.
Please keep track of your belongings throughout the trek. Once you exit any vehicle, campsite, or restaurant, remember to take everything with you.
Tunqui Expeditions is not responsible for lost items.
Packing properly for the Salkantay Trek 5 Days is essential to ensure comfort, safety, and enjoyment throughout your adventure. Below is our recommended packing list, organized into categories and optimized for high-altitude trekking.
Your duffel bag (up to 8 kg / 17.6 lb) will be carried by our horsemen or porters. It must include your sleeping bag and sleeping pad, which together weigh around 3.5 kg.
The Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu (5 Days) is available year-round, from January to December. We operate this itinerary daily, with guaranteed departures for just 2 people.
Group Price: US$ 1095.00 per person
Deposit Required: US$ 400.00 per person
Remaining Balance (in Cusco): US$ 695.00
(Paid in cash after the pre-departure briefing)
⚠️ Please note: PayPal charges a 5% processing fee, which the client is responsible for. This applies only to online deposits. You can pay the remaining balance in cash (USD or soles) in our Cusco office without any additional fees.
Enhance your Peru adventure with these optional tours:
Customize your Machu Picchu experience:
Once your reservation is confirmed, your price is locked in — it will not increase under any circumstances. We believe in transparency and fairness.
We offer a US$ 20.00 discount for students aged 17 or younger.
To receive this discount, please email a clear copy or photo of the student’s passport at the time of booking. The passport must be valid and not expire before the travel date.
Send to: [email protected]
Embark on an unforgettable adventure along the Salkantay Trek, considered one of the most breathtaking routes in the Peruvian Andes. Hike beneath the towering snow-capped peak of Salkantay, immerse yourself in the rich culture of local Andean communities, and uncover the secrets of ancient Inca ruins hidden along the trail.
This once-in-a-lifetime journey culminates with a scenic train ride to Aguas Calientes, followed by an early-morning visit to the majestic citadel of Machu Picchu—one of the New Seven Wonders of the World.
Highlight of the day: Discover the sacred mountains of Humantay and Salkantay, and the stunning turquoise Humantay Lake.
We’ll begin your Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu by picking you up from your hotel in Cusco between 4:30 and 4:45 a.m. Our private Tunqui Expeditions vehicle will take us on a 3-hour drive to Challacancha, where you’ll enjoy your first breakfast prepared by our trekking chef.
After breakfast, we’ll start a 3-hour hike to Soraypampa, walking along a restored Inca aqueduct that once supplied water to the nearby agricultural communities of Mollepata. In Soraypampa, a delicious lunch will be waiting for us.
Later, we’ll hike 2 hours uphill to the breathtaking Humantay Lake (4,200 m / 13,779 ft). Along the way, keep an eye out for Andean wildlife like deer, vizcachas (similar to rabbits), and Andean geese. After exploring the lake, we return downhill to our campsite at Salkantay Pampa (3,900 m / 12,795 ft).
Enjoy tea time and a hearty dinner before relaxing under the stars at our first mountain campsite.
Highlight of the day: Reach the majestic Salkantay Pass and descend into the high jungle.
Wake up to a warm cup of coca tea or coffee and spectacular views of the snow-covered Salkantay Mountain. After breakfast, we’ll begin a challenging 2-hour ascent to the highest point of the trek: Salkantay Pass (4,630 m / 15,190 ft) via the steep “trail of the 7 serpents.”
From the top, you’ll get a panoramic view of the glacier-capped Salkantay (6,271 m / 20,574 ft)—the second-highest peak in the Cusco region and considered an Apu, or sacred mountain. You’ll also spot Humantay, Tucarhuay, and Pumasillo.
We then descend 7 km (4.3 mi) to Huayracmachay (3,850 m / 12,631 ft) for lunch, followed by a scenic 9.5 km (5.9 mi) trek into the lush cloud forest toward Collpapampa.
Expect a dramatic shift in climate and environment as we hike through vibrant green forests, waterfalls, and colorful valleys. After this long but rewarding day, we’ll enjoy a well-earned dinner at our jungle campsite.
Highlight of the day: Connect with the local culture by visiting an organic coffee farm and enjoying a traditional cooking class.
After a nourishing breakfast, we continue the Salkantay Trek into the Peruvian jungle. Along the trail, we’ll explore coffee plantations and fruit orchards, learning how local farmers produce high-quality Peruvian coffee. You’ll experience the full process: harvesting, roasting, grinding, and finally tasting your fresh cup.
Next, enjoy a unique Andean cooking class led by our chef. After lunch, we hike 2.5 hours along an ancient Inca Trail to Llactapata, an archaeological site with incredible panoramic views of Machu Picchu, Huayna Picchu, and Machu Picchu Mountain.
We camp at a private site exclusively used by Tunqui Expeditions, with sunset views over the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu. Enjoy a peaceful tea time, hot dinner, and an unforgettable night under the Milky Way, just as the ancient Incas once did.
Highlight of the day: Wake up to the sunrise over Machu Picchu, right from your tent.
After breakfast, we hike 2 hours downhill to Hydroelectric Station, passing a 300-meter waterfall that powers Cusco’s electricity. Enjoy your final lunch prepared by our trekking chef, and take a moment to thank the porters and team who made this trek possible.
We then hike 3 hours along the railway tracks beside the Urubamba River, passing Mandor Gardens, where Hiram Bingham was guided by the local farmer Arteaga before “rediscovering” Machu Picchu in 1911. You’ll also see native wildlife like toucans, parrots, hummingbirds, orchids, and even the Andean Cock-of-the-Rock (Tunqui).
Once we reach Aguas Calientes, check in to your hotel and enjoy free time. You may relax at the hot springs before meeting the group for a delicious dinner and a briefing for the big day ahead.
Highlight of the day: Visit the magical citadel of Machu Picchu, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and New Wonder of the World.
After an early breakfast, we take the first bus to Machu Picchu to arrive before the crowds. Your guide will take you to the best sunrise viewpoint and then lead a 2.5-hour guided tour of the main sectors, plazas, and temples of the Lost City of the Incas.
After the tour, you can explore more on your own or hike Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain (must be booked in advance – $75 per person).
Around noon, return to Aguas Calientes for lunch (not included) before taking the panoramic train to Ollantaytambo and then our private transfer back to Cusco.
This is the perfect ending to an epic adventure through the Andes and Amazon that you’ll never forget.
At Tunqui Expeditions, we want your trekking experience in Peru to be seamless and unforgettable. That’s why we take care of every logistical detail on your behalf. Please review this information carefully to ensure you don’t miss anything important before booking.
Note: Some elements may vary slightly depending on the specific tour. Please read carefully before confirming your reservation.
You will meet your trekking guide and group at our main office in Cusco the day before your trek at 5:00 p.m. During this meeting, we’ll review the itinerary and provide your duffel bag, which will be carried by horses during the trek. This bag has a weight limit of 8 kg (17.6 lbs) and should include your sleeping bag and inflatable mattress if you’re bringing or renting one.
All our guides are licensed professionals fluent in both English and Spanish. They are graduates of the Tourism program at the National University of San Antonio Abad in Cusco and have extensive knowledge of Andean culture, Inca history, and local ecosystems. They’re passionate about sharing their heritage, responsible, and highly trained to ensure your comfort and safety.
All Tunqui Expeditions guides are certified in first aid and receive mandatory training every February. Your guide will carry a full first aid kit and emergency oxygen, and we’ll coordinate evacuation if needed. Private Camping Equipment
All gear is carried by our team of muleteers and porters:
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.
24/7 Customer Support
Satellite Phone
Every guide carries a fully charged satellite phone for emergency contact and guest use if needed. This is a key safety feature not offered by all operators.
We provide boiled, filtered, and cooled water from your first lunch to the final breakfast. Bring your own CamelBak or bottle (minimum 2L capacity) to refill during meals.
At Tunqui Expeditions, we aim to provide a complete and worry-free experience on the Salkantay Trail. However, there are some items not included in the standard package. Below is a detailed list of what’s not covered and may require an additional fee or personal preparation.
We strongly recommend purchasing travel insurance that covers trip cancellations, medical emergencies, and unexpected delays during your journey.
While our porters, chefs, and guides receive fair wages, tipping is customary and always appreciated for the hard work and dedication of the team. Most groups pool their tips to distribute fairly among the porters and kitchen crew.
Unpredictable factors such as landslides, severe weather, health issues, government policy changes, political instability, strikes, or other force majeure events may affect the itinerary. These are not the responsibility of Tunqui Expeditions and may lead to extra costs.
Huayna Picchu is the iconic peak located to the north of Machu Picchu, famous for its steep stairs and stunning panoramic views of the citadel below. The hike takes about 45 minutes and is ideal for adventurous travelers who are not afraid of heights.
At Tunqui Expeditions, we want your trip to Peru to be as memorable and worry-free as possible. In this section, you’ll find answers to the most frequently asked questions about hiking the Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu. Please read the following information carefully—it will help you understand our services better and prepare for your adventure.
Still have questions? Just contact us—we’ll get back to you as soon as possible!
The Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu is a fantastic alternative to the Inca Trail and is ideal for more adventurous hikers who can manage higher altitudes and longer distances. The ascent to the Salkantay Pass (4,630 m / 15,190 ft) takes place early in the trek and is not overly steep or exhausting, but it does require stamina and acclimatization in Cusco before you begin.
Altitude acclimatization is key. We highly recommend arriving in Cusco at least 2 to 3 days before your trek starts to help your body adjust and reduce the risk of altitude sickness.
Even if you’ve already visited other high-altitude areas in Peru, we still suggest taking at least one full day in Cusco to rest and enjoy the city before the hike.
Recommended activities around Cusco before your trek:
All briefings are held at 5:00 PM the day before your trek at our main office in Cusco—or your hotel, if arranged. Each session lasts around 30 to 45 minutes.
If you can’t attend, please contact us by email, phone, or by visiting our office to arrange an alternative time.
If you have an outstanding balance, it must be paid at least 2 days before the trek. Failure to do so will result in your tour not being confirmed.
We greatly appreciate cash payments in US dollars or Peruvian soles at our Cusco office. You’ll find multiple ATMs along Avenida El Sol that dispense both currencies.
Alternatively, you may pay using a credit/debit card or PayPal—either online or in person—but please note: a 5% service fee is added by our payment gateway (Niubiz) and PayPal.
Checks or traveler’s checks are not accepted.
You’ll receive a duffel bag during your briefing, which will be carried by our muleteers and handed to you at each campsite. The bag size is 60 x 24 x 22 cm (23.6 x 9.45 x 8.66 in).
You’re allowed up to 7 kg / 15.4 lbs, including your sleeping bag and sleeping pad.
Absolutely! You may safely store your main luggage in our office or at your hotel while you’re on the trek—free of charge.
Any items not needed on the trail can stay at your accommodation. Most hotels offer luggage storage, but we strongly recommend keeping valuables in your hotel’s safe, and asking for a detailed receipt (often required by insurance in case of loss). For added peace of mind, seal sensitive items like credit cards in a signed envelope.
We offer hotel pick-up from any location within Cusco’s Historic Center.
Your guide will confirm the exact time during the briefing, but note that delays of 30–45 minutes may occur due to traffic.
Important: Many hotels and Airbnbs are located on steep, narrow, or car-inaccessible streets. We recommend choosing accommodations with easy vehicle access to ensure smooth logistics.
Group treks include participants of all ages and fitness levels. By joining, you agree that some may walk faster or slower than you, and everyone is encouraged to go at their own pace.
If any changes to the itinerary are requested, your guide will make the final decision, consulting with the group when necessary.
Returning to Cusco involves multiple steps—but don’t worry, everything is included in your tour!
Protests and road blockades are fairly common in Peru and may disrupt some tours. Roadways and railways may be temporarily closed. We’ll do our best to maintain your original itinerary, even if that means leaving a night early.
If your tour is affected, our Operations Team will coordinate all changes with you. Your safety is our top priority, and we’ll act accordingly.
Please keep track of your belongings throughout the trek. Once you exit any vehicle, campsite, or restaurant, remember to take everything with you.
Tunqui Expeditions is not responsible for lost items.
Packing properly for the Salkantay Trek 5 Days is essential to ensure comfort, safety, and enjoyment throughout your adventure. Below is our recommended packing list, organized into categories and optimized for high-altitude trekking.
Your duffel bag (up to 8 kg / 17.6 lb) will be carried by our horsemen or porters. It must include your sleeping bag and sleeping pad, which together weigh around 3.5 kg.
The Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu (5 Days) is available year-round, from January to December. We operate this itinerary daily, with guaranteed departures for just 2 people.
Group Price: US$ 1095.00 per person
Deposit Required: US$ 400.00 per person
Remaining Balance (in Cusco): US$ 695.00
(Paid in cash after the pre-departure briefing)
⚠️ Please note: PayPal charges a 5% processing fee, which the client is responsible for. This applies only to online deposits. You can pay the remaining balance in cash (USD or soles) in our Cusco office without any additional fees.
Enhance your Peru adventure with these optional tours:
Customize your Machu Picchu experience:
Once your reservation is confirmed, your price is locked in — it will not increase under any circumstances. We believe in transparency and fairness.
We offer a US$ 20.00 discount for students aged 17 or younger.
To receive this discount, please email a clear copy or photo of the student’s passport at the time of booking. The passport must be valid and not expire before the travel date.
Send to: [email protected]
