Salkantay Private Trek to the Wonder: Explore the Sacred Mountains to Machu Picchu with Private Service
Explore and Discover Salkantay on a Private Service
The Salkantay Private Trek to Machu Picchu is the second most renowned route after the Classic Inca Trail and one of the most breathtaking treks in Peru. You will hike through a variety of landscapes, not only through the highest mountains of Cusco, but you will also visit the turquoise waters of Humantay Lagoon and two impressive Inca sites: Llactapata and Machu Picchu, one of the Seven Wonders of the World. This combination makes for a unique experience in a private service.
Salkantay Trek is an awe-inspiring route where you will visit the famous Humantay Lagoon and then challenge your limits by ascending to the Salkantay Pass at over 4,600 meters (15,091 feet), where a magnificent glacier landscape awaits you.
Later, you will witness the warm climate shift to the Cloud Forest and camp at over 3,600 meters (11,811 feet), sleeping in a spot where few dare to venture. On the Salkantay Trek, you will also visit an organic coffee farm and taste the best Peruvian coffee. Additionally, you will have the chance to participate in cooking classes.
On the fourth day, you will arrive at the impressive site of Llactapata, where you will camp and get your first glimpse of Machu Picchu from afar. After one last night in a hotel, you will conclude the trek with a guided tour of the Wonder of the World, Machu Picchu, and return to Cusco by tourist train.
Salkantay Private 5-Day Trek to Machu Picchu: Explore the Sacred Mountains at Your Own Pace
The Salkantay Private Trek to Machu Picchu takes you on a journey past magnificent glaciers, beneath the majestic Apu Salkantay Mountain (6,240 m / 20,472 ft), before descending into the tropical climate of Santa Teresa, allowing you to hike to Machu Picchu at your own pace.
Our Salkantay Private Trek offers access to a breathtaking viewpoint of Machu Picchu and the option to visit sacred organic coffee plantations. You can also participate in cooking classes as part of this unique experience.
Additionally, you’ll have the chance to hike up Huayna Picchu Mountain after your private Machu Picchu tour to complete this great adventure. This Salkantay Private Trek can be challenging depending on your fitness level.
However, our highly trained and experienced guides are great motivators, ensuring that everyone has an enjoyable and safe experience. This trek is suitable for families, children, and groups, who are all welcome to join.
DAY 01: CUSCO – MOLLEPATA – CHALLACANCHA – SORAYPAMPA – HUMANTAY LAKE – SALKANTAY PAMPA
A fantastic day full of energy. We will hike to Soraypampa, where we will enjoy lunch and hike up to Humantay Lake in the afternoon. Spend the night in the private Salkantay Pampa camp surrounded by mountains.
DAY 02: SALKANTAY PAMPA – SALKANTAY PASS – HUAYRACMACHAY – CHAULLAY – COLLPAPAMPA
Today, you will climb to the highest point of the trek, Salkantay Pass, and admire Salkantay Mountain before descending into the cloud forest. Enjoy a descent from the Andean highlands to the Peruvian jungle until we reach our private camp in Collpapampa, where you will breathe in the warm air and enjoy a nutritious dinner.
DAY 03: COLLPAPAMPA – LA PLAYA – LUCMABAMBA – LLACTAPATA
Walk through the jungle and witness incredible wildlife. Connect with the local community, visit an organic coffee farm, and taste delicious Peruvian coffee. At midday, enjoy a cooking class organized by Tunqui Expeditions. At night, rest at our private camp in Llactapata with unique views of Machu Picchu.
DAY 04: LLACTAPATA – AOBAMBA – HIDROELECTRICA – AGUAS CALIENTES
After breakfast in the mountains, visit the Llactapata archaeological site and catch a distant view of Machu Picchu. In the afternoon, hike to Aguas Calientes and enjoy free time at the hot springs before having dinner at a restaurant and staying at a three-star hotel.
DAY 05: AGUAS CALIENTES – MACHU PICCHU – OLLANTAYTAMBO – CUSCO
The most exciting day has arrived! In the morning, explore the Inca citadel of Machu Picchu with our expert guide. In the afternoon, take the train to Ollantaytambo, followed by private transportation back to Cusco.
Day 01 Cusco | Mollepata – Challacancha – Soraypampa – Salkantay Pampa
Highlight of the Day: Witness the magnificent sacred mountains of Humantay and Salkantay.
A day filled with incredible views of the turquoise waters of Humantay Lake and the glacier-covered Humantay and Salkantay mountains.
We will start our journey by picking you up from your hotel in Cusco at 4:45 AM. In Tunqui Expeditions’ private and comfortable transport, we will drive for three hours to Challacancha, where we will enjoy the first breakfast prepared by our amazing chef.
After breakfast, we will begin a three-hour hike to Soraypampa along an ancient Inca aqueduct that still carries water to the crops of the town of Mollepata. Upon arrival in Soraypampa, our private trekking chef will be waiting with a delicious and well-deserved lunch. Later, we will start a two-hour uphill hike to reach the famous Humantay Lake (4,200 m / 13,779 ft).
During the hike, you’ll witness a variety of flora and fauna, including Andean geese (agapornis), deer, and vizcachas (which resemble rabbits). After visiting the lake in the late afternoon, with fewer tourists, we will hike back down for two and a half hours to our campsite at Salkantay Pampa (3,900 m / 12,795 ft).
Upon arrival, you will be welcomed into your private tents, followed by tea time and dinner. Before sleeping, enjoy the clear night sky full of stars.
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
Accommodation: Camping
Difficulty: Moderate
Hiking Distance: 12 km / 7.5 miles
Hiking Time: 6 – 7 hours
Highest Altitude: 4,200 m / 13,779 ft
Camp Altitude: 4,150 m / 13,615 ft
Highlight of the Day: Witness the stunning Salkantay Mountain.
A breathtaking hike to Salkantay Pass, followed by an overnight stay in the Peruvian jungle.
We will greet you in the morning with a hot cup of coffee or coca tea. As you step out of your tent, you’ll witness spectacular views of canyons and snow-capped peaks.
After breakfast, we will begin a two-hour climb to the highest point of the trek, Salkantay Pass (4,630 m / 15,190 ft). This steep section is known as the “Seven Snake Trail” due to its winding path.
At the top, you’ll enjoy magnificent views of the valleys and Salkantay Mountain (6,271 m / 20,574 ft), the second-highest peak in the Cusco region, considered an Apu (Inca God).
You will also have panoramic views of Humantay, Tucarhuay, and Pumasillo. After a rest, we’ll begin a 7 km (4.35 miles) descent to Huayracmachay (3,850 m / 12,631 ft) for lunch. This rocky section offers incredible valley views.
Post-lunch, we’ll continue descending into the cloud forest (jungle), covering 9.5 km (5.9 miles) over 3.5 hours.
You’ll witness the dramatic change from the Andean highlands to the Amazon basin. The vibrant landscapes, unique wildlife, and native plants will accompany you as you feel the warmer temperatures.
Upon arrival at Collpapampa, you’ll be relieved to settle into your private camp. A hearty meal will be served before resting for the night.
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
Accommodation: Camping
Difficulty: Challenging
Hiking Distance: 18 km / 11.8 miles
Hiking Time: 8 – 9 hours
Highest Altitude: 4,630 m / 15,190 ft
Camp Altitude: 2,770 m / 9,087 ft
Highlight of the Day: Explore the Cusco jungle, connect with the local community, visit organic coffee plantations, and participate in cooking classes.
Learn and immerse yourself in local culture.
After breakfast, we’ll begin the most exciting part of the Salkantay Private Trek to Machu Picchu.
As we hike through the tropical forest, we’ll visit organic coffee plantations and fruit orchards. You’ll receive an introductory session on the history and significance of coffee in the region.
We’ll harvest coffee beans, roast, grind, and taste freshly brewed organic coffee. After a delightful lunch, you’ll take part in a cooking class led by our chef.
Following this, we’ll hike the Inca Trail to Llactapata, where you’ll see the first views of Machu Picchu and Huayna Picchu.
Upon reaching Llactapata, we will descend for 15 minutes to our exclusive camp, with stunning views of Machu Picchu and the surrounding mountains.
Enjoy tea time in the afternoon before dinner, and spend the night stargazing, just as the Incas once did.
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
Accommodation: Camping
Difficulty: Moderate
Hiking Distance: 12 km / 7.32 miles
Highest Altitude: 2,800 m / 9,186 ft
Camp Altitude: 2,700 m / 8,858 ft
Highlight of the Day: Wake up to stunning Machu Picchu views from your tent.
After breakfast, we will hike downhill for two hours to the hydroelectric station.
From there, we will board the train to Aguas Calientes. Upon arrival, you’ll check into a three-star hotel.
Spend the afternoon relaxing, exploring the town, or soaking in the hot springs. In the evening, we’ll enjoy a group dinner.
Here’s the translation for the section you provided:
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
Accommodation: Hotel
Difficulty: Moderate
Walking Distance: 14 kilometers / 8.7 miles
Highest Altitude: 2,800 m / 9,186 ft
Camp Altitude: 2,040 m / 6,692 ft
Highlight of the Day: Explore Machu Picchu and immerse yourself in its history.
After breakfast, we will take the early bus to Machu Picchu for a private guided tour.
You’ll visit the main sectors of the citadel for 2.5 hours. If you choose, you can hike Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain (USD $75 per person, advance booking required).
In the afternoon, take the train to Ollantaytambo, followed by private transport back to Cusco.
Here’s the translation for the final section:
Meals: Breakfast
Difficulty: Easy
Altitude of Machu Picchu Site: 2,430 m / 7,972 ft
Altitude of Machu Picchu Mountain: 3,000 m / 9,843 ft
Altitude of Huayna Picchu Mountain: 2,720 m / 8,924 ft
Optional Activities (Difficulty – Duration): Moderate (2–4 hours)
At Tunqui Expeditions, we take care of all logistics for your adventure. Please read the included services carefully—some items may vary for specific itineraries, so be sure to review everything before booking.
Meet your tour guide and group at our office the evening before your trek at 5:00 PM. You’ll receive important information and your Duffel Bag (maximum weight: 8 kg/17.6 lb), which will be carried by our horsemen. This bag should include your sleeping bag and inflatable mattress if rented or brought.
Professional, certified tour guide fluent in English and Spanish. All of our guides are tourism graduates from Cusco’s San Antonio Abad University. They are local experts—passionate, experienced, and dedicated to sharing the rich culture and history of our region while ensuring your safety and enjoyment.
All our guides are trained in first aid and attend mandatory annual training sessions. Your guide will carry a complete first aid kit and oxygen. In case of emergency, we ensure fast evacuation and medical assistance.
All gear is carried by our porters and horsemen.
Warm mummy-style sleeping bags rated for -18ºC (0ºF), cleaned after each use and used for no more than 30 treks.
Rubber-tipped trekking poles included—ideal for steep and uneven terrain.
Camp comfortably with our high-quality inflatable mattresses.
We believe details make the difference:
24-hour phone assistance before and during your trek.
Satellite PhoneAll guides carry fully charged satellite phones to ensure emergency communication—even in remote areas. Clients may use them for non-emergency situations (fees apply).
From the first lunch to the last breakfast, we provide boiled, filtered, and cooled water. Bring a Camelbak or empty water bottle (recommended 2L capacity).
Start your day with a hot cup of coca tea served at your tent each morning.
Every afternoon, enjoy popcorn, cookies, coffee, hot chocolate, and tea before dinner—perfect after a long hiking day.
Each morning, receive a reusable fabric snack bag filled with local fruits, cookies, candy, and chocolate. We refill it daily!
A small towel and soap are provided before each meal to wash your hands.
We believe the little things matter:
All permits, entry tickets, and government taxes are included. No hidden fees.
While all staff are paid fairly, tips are customary and appreciated for their hard work. Groups typically collect tips to share among porters and cooks.
Huayna Picchu is the iconic peak next to Machu Picchu. The 45-minute steep climb offers breathtaking views, but is not for those afraid of heights.
Additional cost: $75
Advance booking (at least one month) is highly recommended.
Though less tangible, these values are woven into every experience we offer.
Our founder, Silvio Tunqui, began as a porter himself. Today, we continue his mission of fair wages, high-quality equipment (jackets, boots, headlamps, sleeping gear), and support for porter families through medical outreach, school aid, and tree planting.
Four times a year, we take our porters and their families on a full tour of Machu Picchu—an experience they rarely get despite working nearby all year.
Since 2022, we’ve proudly employed female guides, porters, and cooks. We’re working toward gender balance in every department.
We exceed environmental standards by minimizing our impact and including an extra porter to help collect litter. We use local, biodegradable, and organic products whenever possible.
We want your trip to Peru to be as memorable and worry-free as possible. In this section, you’ll find the answers to the most common questions about traveling with Tunqui Expeditions—all in one place.
Please read this information carefully—it will help clarify any doubts you may have about our services.
Still have a question we haven’t answered here? Contact us and we’ll get back to you as soon as possible!
The Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu is an excellent alternative to the Inca Trail and is ideal for more adventurous hikers who can handle higher altitudes and longer distances. The ascent to the iconic Salkantay Pass (4,630 m / 15,190 ft) occurs early in the trek and, while not extremely steep or difficult, it does require good physical condition and proper acclimatization in Cusco before starting.
Being well-acclimatized is essential before taking on a multi-day hike. We recommend arriving in Cusco at least 2 to 3 days before the trek to adjust to the altitude and avoid altitude sickness.
Even if you’ve already been at high altitude in another region of Peru, we still suggest spending at least one full day in Cusco to rest, recover, and enjoy the city before the trek begins.
All pre-departure briefings are held at our main office in Cusco (or at your hotel) at 5:00 PM the evening before your trek. The session lasts approximately 30 to 45 minutes.
If you’re unable to attend, please coordinate another time with us via email, phone, or in person.
If you still have a balance due, it must be paid 2 days before your trek. Otherwise, your booking cannot be confirmed.
If possible, we kindly ask that you pay your remaining balance in cash (USD or Peruvian soles) at our office in Cusco.
There are several ATMs along Avenida El Sol that dispense both currencies.
You can also pay with a credit/debit card or PayPal, either in person or online. However, please note that both our payment gateway (Niubiz) and PayPal charge a 5% service fee.
We do not accept personal or traveler’s checks.
You’ll receive your duffel bag during the briefing session. Our porters will carry it during the trek and deliver it to you at each campsite.
Absolutely!
Your main luggage can be safely stored at our office or at your hotel during your trek—free of charge. Just let us know during the briefing or via email.
Any items you don’t need for the hike can also be stored at your hotel. Most hotels offer this service.
Important: Do not leave valuables in your luggage—store them in the hotel safe and request a detailed receipt (this is often required for travel insurance claims).
For extra peace of mind, we recommend sealing items like credit cards in a signed envelope.
Tunqui Expeditions offers pick-up service from your hotel as long as it’s located within the Historic Center of Cusco.
Your guide will confirm the exact time during the briefing. Please note that pick-up may vary by 30–45 minutes depending on traffic.
Cusco is an ancient city with narrow, cobbled streets. Some hotels or Airbnbs may be on roads that are inaccessible to vehicles or on steep hills, which makes transporting luggage difficult.
We strongly recommend booking accommodation with easy access.
Our group treks include travelers of all ages and fitness levels. By joining a group, you agree that some hikers may be faster or slower than you. Everyone is welcome to go at their own pace.
If the group wants to make changes to the route, the guide will consult all participants and decide whether such changes are possible.
Returning from Machu Picchu requires a bit of logistics—but don’t worry, everything is included in your tour!
Strikes and protests are common in Peru and can occasionally disrupt our tours. Roads and train tracks may be blocked.
However, we will do everything we can to keep your itinerary on track—even if that means departing the night before your scheduled date.
In such cases, tours may need to be modified or canceled.
If that happens, our operations team will coordinate with you directly. Your safety is our top priority, and all decisions will be made with your well-being in mind.
Please be mindful of where you leave your belongings. Remember to take everything with you when leaving our transport vehicles, tents, or restaurants.
You are solely responsible for your personal items during the trek.
Here’s a detailed checklist to help you pack for your adventure with Tunqui Expeditions. Remember: your comfort and safety depend on having the right gear!
Our horsemen and porters will carry up to 8 kg (17.6 lb) of your personal items. This must include your sleeping bag and air mattress, which together weigh approximately 3.5 kg (7.7 lb).
Our Private Salkantay Trek 5 Days can depart on any day of the week, from January to December.
Yes, we operate this itinerary all year round.
Important:
PayPal charges a 5% service fee, which we kindly ask the client to cover, as it is imposed by the payment platform. This fee applies only to online deposits. The remaining balance can be paid in cash during your briefing in Cusco without any additional charges.
Enhance your Peru adventure with these optional extensions:
Customize your experience with these upgrades:
Once your reservation is confirmed, we guarantee your price will not change, no matter what happens.
So before booking, please make sure to read all our important tour details.
Student discounts apply to anyone 17 years old or younger.
To receive the discount, we require a clear photo or scan of a valid passport at the time of booking. The passport must be valid and not expire before your travel dates.
Please email your document to: info@tunquiexpeditions.com
