Standing at the foot of the majestic Salkantay peak, you quickly realize that Machu Picchu is more than just a destination—it’s the grand finale of a soul-stirring journey through the heart of the Andes. While many travelers find themselves lost in the crowds of the traditional Inca Trail, the Salkantay Trek offers a raw, breathtaking connection with nature that few truly get to experience. At Tunqui Expeditions, we believe this sacred landscape deserves more than a ‘one-size-fits-all’ tour. As a local operator and guide who has walked these paths for years, I have designed our expeditions to focus on what truly matters: intimate groups of no more than 12 travelers, gourmet meals prepared by expert mountain chefs, and premium comfort—from private portable toilets to high-end camping gear. We don’t just show you the mountains; we invite you to experience our heritage with the quality and respect it deserves.
Salkantay Trek Packages designed by Silvio Tunqui Indigenous guide:
The majesty of Salkantay, the sacred “Apu” protector of the Andes, deserves more than just a passing glance—it deserves respect. Today, many large companies have cluttered the landscape with permanent glass domes and cabins that disrupt the fragile high-altitude ecosystem and force hikers into rigid, exhausting schedules just to reach a fixed bed.
At Tunqui Expeditions, we choose a different path. We believe in authentic, low-impact trekking. By using high-quality, professional tents and partnering with local communities to create designated, private campsites, we protect the environment while offering you a deeper connection to the earth. We don’t just take you to Machu Picchu; we ensure the mountains remain pristine for generations to come.
“I have spent my life walking these trails. As a local guide and the founder of Tunqui Expeditions, I know the Salkantay route like the palm of my hand. I didn’t design our itinerary based on where a building could be placed; I designed it based on the rhythm of the human spirit. While other companies force you through long, grueling stretches to reach their cabins, our route is balanced, sustainable, and crafted for your comfort and safety.”
When you trek with us, you aren’t just booking a tour; you are joining a meticulously coordinated expedition:
If you are planning your trip to Peru between April and October, you probably already know that Inca Trail permits sell out 6 to 8 months in advance. But here is a secret that experienced hikers and locals know: The Salkantay Trek is not just an alternative; for many, it is a superior experience.
While the Classic Inca Trail is famous for its stone steps and ruins, Salkantay is a raw, powerful journey through the most diverse ecosystems in the Andes. Here is why choosing Salkantay with Tunqui Expeditions will be the highlight of your life:
The variety of scenery on this 5-day challenge is unmatched. In a single journey, you will experience:
Unlike the crowded campsites of the Inca Trail, our Salkantay route is designed for peace. At our private, sustainable campsites, you will witness the clearest skies in the Southern Hemisphere. Imagine sleeping in high-quality tents under a “blanket of a million stars,” far from the light pollution of any city.
At Tunqui Expeditions, we enrich your trek with authentic Andean traditions that you won’t find on the standard Inca Trail:
The Salkantay Trek is a 5-day mountain connection challenge. It is physically more demanding than the Inca Trail, making the final arrival at Machu Picchu feel even more rewarding. Because we use flexible, community-supported campsites instead of rigid “dome hotels,” we can adjust the rhythm to your needs, ensuring you enjoy the path as much as the destination.
At Tunqui Expeditions, we don’t believe you should have to choose between a rugged adventure and high-end comfort. We have redefined the Salkantay experience by focusing on three core pillars: Intimacy, Quality, and Authentic Cultural Immersion.
While the industry standard often pushes groups of 16 to 20 people, we strictly limit our groups to 12 travelers. This allows our expert guides to provide personalized attention, ensures better safety protocols, and fosters a true sense of camaraderie. You aren’t just a tourist in a crowd; you are an explorer in an intimate expedition.
Forget the “basic trail food” offered by others. Our professional trekking chefs prepare high-quality, fresh, and nutritious meals that highlight the best of Peruvian gastronomy. But we go beyond the plate:
We bring the comfort of a hotel to the remote Andean trails. We don’t use crowded cabins; we use top-tier professional gear to give you a “million-star” experience:
Our camps are strategically located to avoid the “trekking traffic jams” caused by big companies. We have partnered with local communities to create designated, tranquil campsites that allow you to arrive at a relaxed pace. Our schedules are designed so you can enjoy the scenery without feeling rushed, ending your day with a peaceful sunset rather than a race to reach a crowded dome.
At Tunqui Expeditions, we know that a guide can make or break your journey. That is why our team isn’t just composed of “tour leaders”—they are true ambassadors of the Andes.
Our guides are 100% local, born and raised in the communities surrounding Cusco. For them, the mountains are not just a workplace; they are home. This deep-rooted connection allows them to share the living history of the Incas with a passion that no textbook can match. As you walk, you won’t just hear dates and names; you will learn about the ancient traditions, the medicinal plants, and the spiritual energy of the Apus (mountain spirits) that still pulse through our culture today.
We understand that trekking at high altitudes (reaching over 15,000 feet) requires more than just a friendly smile. It requires professional expertise.
Because we keep our groups small, our guides become part of your trekking family. They are there to encourage you on the steep climbs, share a laugh during dinner, and ensure that every detail of your journey is seamless. When you hike with us, you are walking with a local expert who is committed to your safety, your education, and your inspiration.
At Tunqui Expeditions, sustainability isn’t a marketing buzzword—it is our way of life. We understand that the beauty of the Salkantay trail is fragile, and as a local company, we feel a deep responsibility to protect our heritage. When you choose to hike with us, you are directly contributing to a model of tourism that respects the earth and empowers our people.
We don’t just pass through villages; we partner with them.
We are committed to leaving no trace, ensuring that the mountains remain pristine for future generations:
Choosing Tunqui Expeditions means choosing a locally-owned, responsible operator. You can trek with a clear conscience, knowing that your adventure supports environmental conservation and provides sustainable livelihoods for the traditional communities of the Andes.
Preparing for a 5-day trek in the Andes requires more than just physical fitness; it requires the right knowledge. Here is everything you need to know to ensure your journey is safe and unforgettable.
Timing is everything in the Andes. The “Dry Season” from April to October offers the most stable weather, with clear blue skies and breathtaking views of the Salkantay peak. June and July are the sunniest months, though nights can be chilly. If you prefer fewer crowds and don’t mind a bit of mist, the “shoulder months” of April and September are fantastic choices.
Check out our Full Guide on Cusco Weather & Best Trekking Seasons for a month-by-month breakdown.
Since we provide high-quality tents and sleeping mats, you only need to focus on your personal gear. Remember the “layering” rule: temperatures can change from freezing at the pass to tropical in the cloud forest.
Download our Complete Salkantay Packing List to ensure you don’t leave anything behind.
The Salkantay Pass sits at 4,630m (15,190ft). To enjoy the trek rather than endure it, acclimatization is key. We recommend arriving in Cusco at least 2 to 3 days before your trek begins. During this time, stay hydrated, avoid heavy meals, and try the local Mate de Coca.
Pro Tip: If you are worried about altitude sickness, consult your doctor about Diamox and always inform your Tunqui guide how you are feeling. Our guides carry emergency oxygen and are experts in altitude safety.
Read our Expert Tips on Preventing Altitude Sickness in Peru to prepare your body for the Andes.
The Salkantay Trek is more than just a path to Machu Picchu; it is a transformative journey through the soul of the Andes. By choosing Tunqui Expeditions, you aren’t just booking a tour—you are choosing a sustainable, high-quality, and deeply personal experience. From our private, quiet campsites to the gourmet meals prepared by our local chefs, every detail is designed to honor the mountains and provide you with the adventure of a lifetime.
Don’t settle for a crowded, mass-market tour. Join our small groups and experience the magic of Peru with the experts who call it home.
Are you ready to stand at the foot of the sacred Apu Salkantay? Contact us today for a personalized quote or to check 2025 availability!
If you are looking for a different pace or have limited time, we have options for every explorer. If you prefer a shorter hike, check our 2 day Inca Trail.
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