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- +51931631135
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- Tripadvisor
- Contact US
- About US
- +51931631135
- +51 936 633 360
- Tripadvisor
- Contact US
- About US
Duration of the trip
PRICE FROM
Per person
Salkantay Mount, Humantay Lake, Salkantay lake, Llactapata Inca site, Santa Teresa hot springs, Machu Picchu
Challenging
Cusco - Pick up from your hotel in Cusco
Hiking
1-5 people
75 Km
The Salkantay Trek 5 Days is one of the best treks to Machu Picchu, an unforgettable adventure that combines nature, culture, and adrenaline on the most famous alternative Inca Trail in Peru. This hiking route is consistently ranked among the Top 25 Treks in the World by National Geographic, offering an epic journey through the Peruvian Andes before reaching the iconic Machu Picchu citadel.
On this adventure, you’ll explore the turquoise waters of Humantay Lake, hike near the majestic Salkantay Mountain (6,271m / 20,574ft), and descend into the lush Lucmabamba Valley, where you’ll visit a local coffee farm and discover the secrets of traditional Andean coffee-making. After days of trekking, you’ll relax in the hot springs of Santa Teresa, walk a section of the original Inca Trail, and reach the Llactapata archaeological site, where you’ll enjoy your first panoramic view of Machu Picchu from a unique angle.
To make the experience even more thrilling, you can add an adventure zipline in Santa Teresa, and every night you’ll sleep comfortably under the stars in our exclusive private camps, featuring sky domes, glass igloos, and panoramic cabins with mountain views. Finally, the trek concludes with a guided tour of Machu Picchu, one of the New Seven Wonders of the World and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
With special student discounts, flexible return options to Cusco, and an all-inclusive package, we guarantee your Salkantay Trek will be safe, comfortable, and unforgettable.
📅 Booking the Salkantay Trek 5 Days
To secure your spot on the Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu, simply click the “BOOK NOW” button and check our real-time availability calendar. If your preferred start date is available, it means Machu Picchu entrance tickets are also confirmed for your tour. Once your booking is processed, we immediately purchase your official Machu Picchu tickets, always selecting the best available circuit at that time.
Remember: all Machu Picchu tickets are sold only through the official Peruvian government website, and every tour operator, including us, uses the same system.
Option 1: Llaqta Machupicchu / Circuit 2-A (Classic Designed Route)
Includes the iconic viewpoint and a complete guided tour of the citadel. Photo & Video
Option 2: Llaqta Machupicchu / Circuit 2-B (Lower Terrace Route)
Similar to Option 1, but with a slightly different urban sector path. Photo & Video
Option 3: Llaqta Machupicchu / Circuit 1-B (Panoramic Upper Terrace)
Covers the upper viewpoint with panoramic photos, but limited citadel access. Photo & Video
Option 4: Llaqta Machupicchu / Circuit 3-B (Royalty Route)
Visits the lower section of Machu Picchu, without access to the classic viewpoint. Photo & Video
Option 5: Llaqta Machupicchu / Circuit 1-A (Machu Picchu Mountain)
Includes a hike up Machu Picchu Mountain, panoramic views, but not the citadel circuit. Photo & Video
Option 6: Llaqta Machupicchu / Circuit 3-A (Waynapicchu Mountain)
Includes the famous Waynapicchu hike and a short visit to the lower citadel. Photo & Video
👉 If Option 1 (Classic Route) is important for you, we recommend booking at least 4 months in advance, since it sells out quickly.
🔗 You can check real-time Machu Picchu ticket availability directly here: Official Government Website.
We begin our Salkantay Trek 5 Days adventure with an early morning pickup from your hotel in Cusco between 04:15 and 05:00 am. Our private transportation takes us on a 2-hour scenic drive through the traditional towns of Izcuchaca and Limatambo, before arriving at the charming Andean village of Mollepata around 07:00 am, where we will enjoy our first traditional breakfast.
After breakfast, we continue by bus for about one more hour until Challacancha, the starting point of our trekking adventure in the Andes. From here, we begin our first day of hiking towards the breathtaking Humantay Lake (Laguna Humantay), famous for its turquoise waters and the stunning view of the Humantay Glacier. This natural wonder is one of the highlights of the Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu, and it offers incredible opportunities for photos and connection with Andean nature.
After visiting the lagoon, we descend along the same trail and continue trekking for approximately 2.5 hours through impressive mountain landscapes until we reach our first campsite at Salkantay Pampa (3,900m / 12,795ft). Upon arrival, we will enjoy a delicious Andean lunch prepared by our trekking chefs, followed by some time to rest.
In the afternoon, you will have the chance to explore the surroundings, walk along the small streams, and admire the majestic snow-capped Salkantay Mountain, one of the most sacred peaks in the Inca culture. Later, we will gather for afternoon tea (Happy Hour) and then enjoy a nourishing dinner.
At night, you will rest in our comfortable Andean cabins or mountain domes, designed to provide warmth and a unique experience under the starry skies of the Peruvian Andes.
✨ This first day is the perfect introduction to the Salkantay Trek 5 Days, combining adventure, natural beauty, and cultural immersion on the road to Machu Picchu.
We start the second day of our Salkantay Trek 5 Days to Machu Picchu very early, around 04:30 am, when our trekking chefs gently wake you up with a warm cup of coca tea, the traditional Andean drink that helps with altitude. After packing up and enjoying a nutritious Andean breakfast, we begin our hike at 05:30 am towards the legendary Salkantay Pass (4,620m / 15,157ft), the highest point of the entire trek.
At the summit of the Salkantay Mountain Trail, you will take part in a traditional coca leaf ceremony, honoring the sacred Apus (mountain spirits) of the Andes. From here, you’ll be rewarded with panoramic views of snow-capped peaks, glacial valleys, and the dramatic landscapes that make this route one of the best alternative treks to Machu Picchu.
We then descend for about 2 hours into the lush valley of Huayracmachay, where a delicious lunch awaits. After recharging, the adventure continues with another 3-hour trek through changing ecosystems, as the landscape transforms from high mountains into the beginning of the cloud forest (Ceja de Selva), full of biodiversity and exotic vegetation.
By late afternoon, we arrive at our camp in Chaullay (2,900m / 9,514ft), where you’ll enjoy a comforting tea time (Happy Hour) followed by a delicious dinner. The evening ends around a traditional Andean bonfire, where we share Inca legends and local stories, celebrating life and culture under the starlit Andean sky. Finally, you’ll rest in our authentic Andean huts, immersed in the peaceful atmosphere of the Peruvian highlands.
🌟 Day 2 Highlights – Salkantay Trek
🏔️ Challenge & Reward: Hike to the Salkantay Pass (4,620m), the highest point of the trek.
🍃 Cultural Immersion: Take part in a coca leaf ceremony with breathtaking mountain views.
🌿 Changing Landscapes: Experience the transition from Andean highlands to cloud forest.
🔥 Andean Bonfire: Enjoy tea, dinner, and Inca storytelling by the fire.
🛖 Unique Overnight Stay: Sleep in traditional Andean huts at Chaullay Camp.
At 06:00 am, our trekking team gently wakes you up with a revitalizing cup of coca tea, the traditional Andean infusion perfect for starting another exciting day on the Salkantay Trek 5 Days to Machu Picchu. After packing your belongings and enjoying a hearty Andean breakfast, we begin our third day of hiking at 07:00 am, leaving Chaullay and descending through the lush landscapes of the high jungle (cloud forest).
This day’s trek takes approximately 5 hours, surrounded by fruit plantations, coca fields, and cacao farms, offering a unique look at the rich biodiversity of the Peruvian Andes and Amazon transition zone. Along the way, you will feel the warm, tropical climate and see how the ecosystems dramatically change from mountains to jungle.
Upon arrival at our exclusive Coca Camp, our chefs will welcome you with a delicious traditional lunch, followed by some time to rest. In the afternoon, you’ll take part in our authentic Coffee Tour, where local families will show you the entire process of organic coffee production—from bean to cup—giving you the chance to roast, grind, and taste one of the best coffees in the world.
Later, we head to the relaxing Cocalmayo Hot Springs, considered the best thermal baths in Cusco. Here you can soak in natural pools surrounded by mountains, the perfect reward after long trekking days. Finally, we return to our camp for a delicious dinner and a peaceful night in our Andean jungle lodges, under the sound of the river and the stars.
🌟 Day 3 Highlights – Salkantay Trek
🍃 Cloud Forest Descent: Trek for 5 hours through coca, cacao, and fruit plantations.
🏞️ Unique Camp Experience: Stay at our exclusive Coca Camp with beautiful scenery.
☕ Coffee Tour: Learn, roast, and taste organic Andean coffee with local farmers.
💧 Cocalmayo Hot Springs: Relax in the most famous thermal baths of Cusco.
🌌 Jungle Night Stay: Sleep in Andean lodges surrounded by tropical nature.
At 06:00 am, our team will wake you up with a revitalizing cup of coca tea, followed by a nutritious Andean breakfast to prepare for one of the most memorable days of the Salkantay Trek 5 Days. At 07:00 am, we start our journey along an original Inca Trail path, hiking for approximately 3 hours uphill towards the fascinating Llactapata archaeological site.
From Llactapata, you will enjoy one of the most spectacular first views of Machu Picchu from the opposite ridge, framed by the sacred Apus (mountain gods) that protect this mystical region. This site, rarely visited by tourists, offers a unique and less-crowded perspective of the Lost City of the Incas.
We then continue with a 2-hour descent to the area of Hidroelectrica, where a freshly prepared lunch will be waiting for us. After lunch, we begin the final stretch of the day: a 3-hour walk along the railway tracks surrounded by lush vegetation, waterfalls, and the Urubamba River, until we arrive at the town of Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu Pueblo).
Upon arrival, we check into our comfortable hotel, where you can take a refreshing shower and explore the lively streets of this small town at the base of Machu Picchu. At 07:00 pm, we gather for a delicious dinner at a local restaurant, followed by a detailed briefing from our guide about the grand visit to Machu Picchu the next day.
🌟 Day 4 Highlights – Salkantay Trek
🏞️ Inca Trail Hike: Walk for 3 hours to the Llactapata ruins with stunning views.
👁️ Panoramic Machu Picchu View: Admire your first glimpse of Machu Picchu from a unique angle.
🍽️ Lunch in Hidroelectrica: Recharge with a freshly prepared meal in the valley.
🚶 Railroad Trek: Scenic 3-hour hike along the tracks to Aguas Calientes.
🏨 Comfortable Stay: Enjoy a hotel night in Machu Picchu Pueblo.
📖 Evening Briefing: Get ready for the Machu Picchu guided tour the next day.
On the final and most anticipated day of the Salkantay Trek 5 Days to Machu Picchu, we begin very early. At 04:00 am, you will enjoy your breakfast or box breakfast, before starting the journey to the legendary Lost City of the Incas.
From Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu Pueblo), you can choose between:
Whichever option you select, the goal is to arrive around 06:00 am, one of the best times to enter the citadel and enjoy the mystical atmosphere as the sunrise illuminates Machu Picchu.
Once inside, your professional guide will lead a 2-hour guided tour through the most important temples, terraces, plazas, and sacred sites of Machu Picchu, one of the New Seven Wonders of the World and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
After the guided visit, you will have free time to explore on your own, or, if you booked in advance, you can hike one of the additional circuits:
✅ Return to Cusco Options:
🚶 By Hidroelectrica (Trek + Bus): Passengers walking back must arrive at Hidroelectrica by 03:00 pm for the 6-hour return trip to Cusco.
🚂 By Train (Expedition or Vistadome): For passengers returning by train, arrive at the Aguas Calientes train station at least 30 minutes before departure. Upon arrival in Ollantaytambo, our private transport will be waiting to take you back to Cusco city.
This marks the end of your unforgettable journey on the Salkantay Trek 5 Days, one of the most incredible trekking adventures in Peru, combining nature, culture, and the ultimate reward: visiting the legendary Machu Picchu.
🌟 Day 5 Highlights – Salkantay Trek
🌄 Sunrise at Machu Picchu: Be one of the first to enter the citadel at dawn.
🏛️ Guided Machu Picchu Tour: Explore temples, terraces, and sacred sites with an expert guide.
⛰️ Optional Hikes: Climb Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain for panoramic views.
🚍🚂 Flexible Returns: Choose between train journey or Hidroelectrica route back to Cusco.
✨ Grand Finale: Complete your Salkantay Trek at the most iconic archaeological wonder in South America.
✅ What’s Included in the Salkantay Trek 5 Days to Machu Picchu
Our Salkantay Trek package is designed to give you a safe, comfortable, and unforgettable adventure. Everything you need is covered, so you can focus only on enjoying the journey to Machu Picchu.
🚍 Transport & Logistics
🚐 Hotel pickup in Cusco.
🚌 Private transport Cusco – Mollepata.
🐎 Mules to carry camping and kitchen equipment.
👨🌾 Arriero (muleteer) in charge of handling the mules.
🎒 Duffle bag (up to 5 kg per traveler for personal belongings).
🚌 Bus Ollantaytambo – Cusco (if returning by train).
🚐 Transport Hidroelectrica – Cusco (for passengers returning by car).
🏕️ Accommodation
🛖 1 night in Andean cabins (Salkantay Pampa).
🌌 1 night in SKY DOMO under the stars.
🌿 1 night in Jungle Huts (Coca Camp or Chaullay).
🏨 1 night in a hotel in Aguas Calientes.
🍽️ Meals
☕ 4 breakfasts.
🍲 4 lunches.
🍽️ 4 dinners (all prepared by our trekking chefs).
🎟️ Entrances & Services
🎫 Official entrance ticket to Machu Picchu.
🧑🏫 Professional bilingual guide (English/Spanish).
💨 First aid kit & emergency oxygen for safety.
📋 Pre-departure briefing (the day before the trek, between 5–8 pm, at your hotel or our office).
❌ What’s Not Included in the Salkantay Trek 5 Days
Although our Salkantay Trek package is very complete, there are some extra services and personal expenses that are not included in the program. We want you to be fully informed so you can plan your budget in advance.
🥘 Meals Not Included
🍳 1st breakfast in Mollepata – 15 soles.
🍲 Lunch & dinner on the last day (after visiting Machu Picchu).
🎟️ Entrance Fees & Tickets
🏞️ Laguna Humantay entrance ticket – 20 soles.
🚍 Consettur bus to Machu Picchu (optional, round trip or one way).
💦 Hot springs entrance in Cocalmayo – 10 soles.
🚐 Transport to Cocalmayo hot springs – 40 soles.
🚆 Optional Train & Transfers
🚂 Train Hidroelectrica – Aguas Calientes – $33 USD (optional if you don’t want to walk).
🎒 Duffle bag transport from Lucma to Hidroeléctrica – 15 soles.
🛠️ Rental Equipment
🛏️ Sleeping bag rental – 10 USD (can be rented with us).
🥾 Trekking poles rental – 10 USD (can be rented with us).
Salkantay Trek 5 Days – Prices & Options
The Salkantay Trek 5D/4N is one of the most popular alternatives to the Inca Trail, combining breathtaking landscapes, adventure, and the final reward of visiting Machu Picchu.
Prices vary depending on whether you are a student, child, or adult, and on your chosen return option—by car or by train. Below, you’ll find all the details to choose the best option for your travel style and budget.
🚐 Salkantay Trek 5D/4N – Return to Cusco by Car
This is the most affordable option, perfect for travelers who want to extend the adventure and enjoy the return journey through the Andes by tourist bus.
🎓 Student Price: $279 USD per person (valid ISIC student card required).
👦 Child Price (8 to 17 years old): $279 USD per person.
🧍 Adult Price: $295 USD per person.
🚆 Salkantay Trek 5D/4N – Return to Cusco by Train
If you prefer comfort and speed, this option is ideal. After finishing your guided tour in Machu Picchu, you will board the panoramic train from Aguas Calientes back to Cusco, enjoying stunning Andean landscapes.
🎓 Student Price: $349 USD per person (valid student ID required).
👦 Child Price (8 to 17 years old): $349 USD per person.
🧍 Adult Price: $369 USD per person.
👥 Group Size – Salkantay Trek
To guarantee an authentic and safe adventure, we keep our groups small and well-organized:
🎓 Student Discount – How It Works
If you are under 25 years old and hold a valid student ID, you qualify for the special discounted rate.
✅ Please check all requirements in advance to make sure you are eligible. This benefit is available only to students who meet the official conditions.
✨ Salkantay Trek 5 Days – Optional Add-ons & Upgrades
🏔️ Huayna Picchu Mountain Ticket – $60 USD
Climb the iconic Huayna Picchu, the steep mountain behind Machu Picchu that you see in classic postcards. This hike rewards you with panoramic views of the citadel, Inca terraces, and sacred temples.
⏱️ Duration: 2–2.5 hours round trip.
⏳ Limited to 400 tickets per day, divided into 4 time slots (7 a.m. – 10 a.m.).
⚠️ Steep ascent, not recommended if you have vertigo.
👉 Booking in advance is essential. Check availability on the official Peruvian government site here, and we’ll secure your spot.
🏔️ Machu Picchu Mountain Ticket – $60 USD
For those who want a longer, less crowded alternative hike, Machu Picchu Mountain offers breathtaking views of the citadel from above.
📍 Altitude: 3,080 m (higher than Huayna Picchu).
⏱️ Duration: 3–3.5 hours round trip.
⏳ 400 tickets daily, split into two entry times: 7–8 a.m. and 8–9 a.m.
🚶 Ideal after your guided tour of Machu Picchu.
👉 Highly recommended to book early due to limited availability.
🚆 Vistadome Train Upgrade – $40 USD
Upgrade your return journey from Aguas Calientes to Cusco with the luxury Vistadome Train.
🥾 Trekking Pole Rental – $10 USD (Pair)
Support your knees and balance on steep and rocky trails with professional trekking poles.
✅ Lightweight, durable, and ideal for the demanding Salkantay terrain.
❌ Note: Poles are not allowed inside Machu Picchu or on mountain hikes.
👉 Rent them in advance during booking or directly in Cusco.
🛏️ Sleeping Bag Rental – $10 USD
Sleep warm and comfortably in the Andes with our high-quality sleeping bags.
🌟 Zipline Adventure – $25 USD (Day 3 at Lucmabamba)
Add adrenaline to your Salkantay Trek with Cusco’s longest zipline experience.
⚡ Includes 5 zipline cables (700 m – 1 km each).
🌉 Cross a 300 m Tibetan bridge suspended high above the valley.
📝 How to Book the Salkantay Trek (5 Days / 4 Nights) – Steps & Terms
✅ Steps to Book the Salkantay Trek
🔹 Step 1: Check Availability & Choose Your Date
Click the “BOOK NOW” button to open our real-time booking calendar. If your preferred date is available, select it and proceed. Availability also guarantees Machu Picchu tickets for that same day.
🔹 Step 2: Select Return Option & Traveler Type
Choose whether you want to return to Cusco by car (budget option) or by train (comfort upgrade). Then, select the number of travelers and their category (adult, student, or child). You may pay only the $180 USD deposit (non-refundable) or the full tour cost—both options are available.
🔹 Step 3: Complete Traveler Information
Fill out the form for each participant, including:
Full name (as per passport)
Passport number
WhatsApp contact
Hotel in Cusco
Additional personal details required for tickets
🔹 Step 4: Add Optional Extras
Personalize your adventure with add-ons like:
🎒 Sleeping Bag Rental
🥾 Trekking Poles
🏔️ Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain entry tickets
🌟 Zipline activity in Lucmabamba
🔹 Step 5: Secure Payment
Proceed to the payment form and pay with any credit or debit card. In some countries, bank transfers are also available.
⚠️ Please note: All card payments include a 5% processing fee, covered by the client.
📧 Once payment is completed, you’ll receive an instant confirmation email. Within 24 hours, we will send your final booking confirmation with all details, including your Machu Picchu entrance ticket and train tickets (if applicable).
📌 Terms & Conditions – Salkantay Trek Booking
💵 Deposit Requirement
A non-refundable deposit of $180 USD per person is required to secure your reservation.
This deposit allows us to immediately purchase your Machu Picchu tickets and train tickets.
The deposit is non-refundable under all circumstances.
❌ Cancellations
If you cancel, the deposit will not be refunded.
Any tickets already issued (Machu Picchu entry, trains) remain valid for the original date. They are non-transferable and non-changeable.
If you paid the full tour cost and cancel, we will refund the balance minus the $180 USD deposit.
💰 Payment of Remaining Balance
If you only paid the deposit, the remaining balance must be paid at least 24 hours before the trek starts, either:
✅ Online via our booking platform.
✅ At our office in Cusco (cash in USD or soles).
✅ By card (with an additional 5% fee).
🌍 Must-Haves (Keep With You Always)
Passport: Mandatory at all checkpoints. Double-check its validity for your entire trip.
Student Card: If you booked a discounted ticket, bring an ISIC-approved student ID.
Daypack: A lightweight, ergonomic backpack (up to 25L) for your everyday essentials.
Hydration: Carry 1.5–2L capacity. Hydration packs like CamelBak are very practical.
Hiking Boots: Durable, breathable, and with solid grip—make sure they’re already broken in.
Head Torch: Useful for early departures, evening arrivals, or night bathroom visits.
🧳 In Your Duffel Bag
(Transported by pack horses – max 7 kg per person, including sleeping bag)
👔 Clothing
2–3 quick-dry, breathable t-shirts
2–3 pairs of lightweight trekking pants
3 changes of underwear
3 pairs of cushioned hiking socks
1 fleece and 1 insulated jacket for chilly nights
1 waterproof raincoat + rain pants (weather shifts fast in the Andes)
1 sun hat and 1 warm beanie/wool hat
1 pair of camp shoes + your main hiking boots
⚙️ Gear & Extras
Waterproof gloves (ski gloves work well)
Poncho or rainproof jacket for heavy showers
Quick-dry towel (bigger than the one provided, if preferred)
Compact soap or hygiene essentials
Power bank (electricity is scarce on the route)
Plastic bags/dry sacks to organize and protect items
Sleeping bag rated for -10°C / 14°F or colder
🪥 Toiletries & Personal Care
Sunscreen + moisturizer (high UV at altitude)
Insect repellent (needed in warm jungle areas)
Hand sanitizer + wet wipes
Toothbrush & toothpaste
Toilet paper + resealable bag (take used paper back out)
Personal medications & basic first aid
🎒 Inside Your Daypack
(Remember: Bags over 25L are not permitted inside Machu Picchu—larger ones must be stored)
Water for the first morning (refills available during the trek)
Rain gear + a warm fleece (weather changes rapidly)
Camera or phone for photos and videos
Optional: music, podcast, or audiobook with headphones
Hand sanitizer
Toilet paper + small waste bag
Extra cash for tips or small purchases
Frequently Asked Questions about the Salkantay Trek (Ultimate SEO Guide)
1. How should I prepare for the Salkantay Trek if I’m not used to high altitude?
The Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu reaches up to 4,700 meters (15,400 ft), while Cusco sits at 3,300 meters (10,800 ft). If you’re coming from sea level, we recommend arriving in Cusco at least 2 days before your trek to acclimate.
Tips to avoid altitude sickness:
Stay hydrated with at least 2–3 liters of water daily.
Drink coca tea, the traditional Andean remedy for altitude.
Rest and avoid strenuous activity during your first 24 hours in Cusco.
Eat light meals to give your body time to adjust.
Take soft acclimatization tours, such as the Cusco City Tour or the Sacred Valley Tour, before starting the trek.
👉 With Wonderful Machu Picchu Reservation, we provide personalized acclimatization tips and pre-trek assistance to make sure you’re fully prepared.
2. Can I change the 5-Day Salkantay Trek to the 4-Day version?
Yes! You can switch from the 5-Day Salkantay Trek to the 4-Day version, depending on availability. Your arrival at Machu Picchu remains the same, since tickets cannot be modified.
All you need to do is adjust your departure date by one day, and our team at Wonderful Machu Picchu Reservation will handle the rest to ensure a smooth transition.
3. Do I need gloves for the Salkantay Trek?
Yes, gloves are highly recommended. The first night and the morning of Day 2 are usually very cold, with temperatures dropping below freezing. Any warm gloves will work, and you can also purchase affordable options at local Cusco markets (7–10 soles).
👉 Our packing guide, provided after booking with us, ensures you don’t miss any essential trekking gear.
4. Can I change the date, circuit, or name on my Machu Picchu ticket?
No. Once your Machu Picchu ticket is issued, it is 100% non-changeable and non-refundable, according to official Government of Peru regulations. This means you cannot alter the:
Date
Entry time
Name on the ticket
Type of circuit
If you don’t use it on the scheduled date and time, the ticket is forfeited. That’s why booking early and with an expert operator like Wonderful Machu Picchu Reservation is crucial—we make sure everything is secured and perfectly organized from the start.
5. How difficult is the Salkantay Trek compared to the Inca Trail?
The Salkantay Trek is considered a moderate to challenging trek. It’s longer than the Inca Trail (5 days vs. 4 days) and reaches higher altitudes (up to 4,700 m). However, it’s less crowded and offers breathtaking landscapes like Salkantay Pass, Humantay Lake, and the cloud forest before Machu Picchu.
If you’re looking for a less touristy, more adventurous alternative to the Inca Trail, the Salkantay Trek is perfect.
6. When is the best time to hike the Salkantay Trek?
The best months to hike the Salkantay Trek are April to October, during the dry season. You’ll have clear skies, amazing mountain views, and lower chances of rain.
The wet season runs from November to March, with heavier rainfall in January and February. While the trek is still doable, trails can be muddy and visibility reduced.
👉 For the best experience, we recommend May, June, July, and September, when weather and conditions are ideal.
8. Can I rent equipment in Cusco for the Salkantay Trek?
Yes, you can rent high-quality trekking gear from us, including:
Sleeping bags
Trekking poles
Duffel bags
All equipment is cleaned, sanitized, and designed for mountain conditions. This saves you the hassle of bringing bulky items from home.
9. Is the Salkantay Trek safe for solo travelers?
Absolutely. Many solo travelers choose the Salkantay Trek, and our group departures ensure you’ll trek with like-minded adventurers from around the world. You’ll also be accompanied by professional guides, cooks, and porters, making your experience both safe and social.
10. Why should I choose the Salkantay Trek over the Inca Trail?
No permit limits: The Inca Trail permits sell out months in advance, but the Salkantay Trek has daily availability.
Variety of landscapes: From snowy peaks to jungles and coffee farms.
Less crowded: A more authentic and adventurous journey.
Flexible itineraries: 4-day or 5-day options available.
Why Choose Wonderful Machu Picchu Reservation for Your Salkantay Trek?
When it comes to the Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu, choosing the right tour operator makes all the difference between a stressful trip and a once-in-a-lifetime adventure. At Wonderful Machu Picchu Reservation, we go beyond just selling a tour—we craft an unforgettable journey filled with comfort, safety, and authentic cultural experiences. Here’s why thousands of travelers trust us:
✅ 1. Local Experts, Global Standards
We are a Cusco-based, locally owned company with years of experience guiding trekkers along the Salkantay route. Our deep knowledge of the Andes, combined with international safety and service standards, guarantees you’ll experience Peru like a local—without sacrificing comfort.
✅ 2. Guaranteed Machu Picchu Entry & Train Tickets
Unlike other agencies, we immediately secure your Machu Picchu entrance tickets and train reservations as soon as you book. No stress, no last-minute surprises—your spot at the world wonder is 100% guaranteed.
✅ 3. Small Groups for a Personal Experience
We believe the best way to experience the Andes is in small groups. That’s why we limit our Salkantay Trek groups to ensure personalized attention from your guide, faster logistics, and a closer bond with fellow trekkers.
✅ 4. Top-Quality Equipment & Comfort
From extra warm sleeping bags to spacious tents and professional-grade trekking poles, we provide high-quality gear designed for mountain conditions. Every detail is thought out to maximize your comfort during long trekking days and cold Andean nights.
✅ 5. Exceptional Meals on the Trail
Our professional chefs prepare nutritious, delicious meals daily using fresh local ingredients. Expect a mix of Peruvian specialties and international dishes that give you the energy to conquer each stage of the trek. Many travelers say our food is the best part of the journey (after Machu Picchu, of course).
✅ 6. Adventure + Safety First
Your safety is our top priority. Our guides are wilderness first-aid certified, carry oxygen tanks and emergency kits, and are trained to handle altitude-related issues. With Wonderful Machu Picchu Reservation, you trek with confidence.
✅ 7. Flexible Itineraries: 4-Day or 5-Day Options
Whether you prefer the classic 5-Day Salkantay Trek or the shorter 4-Day version, we offer flexible itineraries to match your travel style and schedule.
✅ 8. No Hidden Fees, 100% Transparency
We believe in clear, upfront pricing—no surprises along the way. What you see is what you pay. Optional add-ons like Huayna Picchu entry or Vistadome train upgrades are available, but never forced.
✅ 9. Sustainable & Responsible Travel
We are committed to eco-friendly tourism and supporting local communities. By booking with us, you help preserve the Andes and directly support Peruvian families through fair wages and sustainable practices.
✅ 10. 24/7 Customer Support & Local Assistance
From the moment you land in Cusco until your return, our team is available day and night to assist you. WhatsApp support, office check-ins, and real-time updates ensure you’re never alone in your adventure.
Duration of the trip
5 DAYS
Places to Visit:
Salkantay Mount, Humantay Lake, Salkantay lake, Llactapata Inca site, Santa Teresa hot springs, Machu Picchu
Physical Level:
Challenging
Trip Starts in:
Cusco - Pick up from your hotel in Cusco
Trip Style:
Hiking
Group Size:
1-5 people
Total Hiking Distance:
75 Km
We offer additional tour options that maintain the same high quality you’ve come to expect. Explore new possibilities with us without compromising on excellence!“
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$ 25.00
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$ 85.00
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$ 360.00
Price per person
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$ 320.00
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$ 595.00
Price per person
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$ 380.00
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