SALKANTAY TREK - Inca Trail to Machu Picchu Treks in Peru

The Greatest Hiking Treks in Peru Enjoy the Best Treks and Hiking Adventures to Machu Picchu, the Lost City of the Incas.

Each of our tours is operated by our certified and experienced guides who will take you along the world-famous Trek to Machu Picchu via the Salkantay Trail and Inca Trail. Whether you travel with a small group of like-minded adventurers, or an intimate party of family and friends, our full-time staff is on call around the clock, ready at any time to provide you with everything you need for the journey of a lifetime. 5D/4N Up to 8 people Challenging Cusco Classic Salkantay Trek 5 Days Humantay Lake - Salkantay Pass - Llactapata - Machu Picchu

The Salkantay trek to Machu Picchu is one of the most famous treks in Cusco, Peru and it is undoubtedly the best alternative route to experience the original Inca paths. Its highest point is a high pass of over 4700m near the magnificent glacier-clad peak of Salkantay. From here you descend in spectacular fashion to the vertiginous valleys of the subtropics. From $460 Read More 4D/3N Up to 8 people Challenging Cusco Short Salkantay Trek 4 Days Humantay Lake - Salkantay Pass - Machu Picchu

This shorter alternative to the Salkantay Classic is sure to ‘peak’ your interest as you walk between the towering peaks of Humantay and Salkantay mountain as you make your way to Machu Picchu. From $450 Read More 4D/3N Up to 8 people Moderate to Challenging Cusco Classic Inca Trail 4 Days Piskacucho - Wiñay Wayna - Machu Picchu

Hiking the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu is an experience that will truly change your life forever. There are over 40,000 km of inca trails that run all over South America, to the ends of their far reaching empire. From $700 Read More15 years of experience 200+ Local Collaborators 6,000+ Adventures Planned 70,000+ Happy Clients & Counting 3D/2N 8 ChallengingCusco Challenge Salkantay 3D Salkantay Pass - Chaullay - Machu Picchu

This trek will push you as you hikes through rugged mountain terrain to Machu Picchu. You will pass along natural bridges, snowcapped mountains, colorful valleys, waterfalls, wildlife, unique plants, and a cloud forest. From $400 Read More2D/1N 8 ChallengingCusco Short Inca Trail 2D km 104 - Wiñay Wayna - Machu Picchu

The two-day trek is well worth it and far more rewarding than simply taking the train all the way there as you can pause to enjoy your beautiful surroundings before ascending to the ruins. From $450 Read More1D 8 Moderate to ChallengingCusco Challenge Inca Trail 1D Piskacucho - Wiñaywayna - Machu Picchu

This Trek has a variety of flora and fauna and is rich in history. The 1-day hike is 13km/8m, goes up to 2,720 m/8,920 ft, and is classified as an easy-moderate trek with minimal altitude gain. From $350 Read More7D/6N 8 ChallengingCusco Salkantay & Inca Trail 7D Humantay Lake - Wiñay Wayna - Machu Picchu

The 7 Day Salkantay - Inca Trail offers tourists the chance to enjoy a mix of both the Salkantay Trek and the Inca Trail combined.From $1000 Read MoreYour Safety is our Priority Explore with Confidence

We are committed to ensuring the safety and wellbeing of our travelers, and the people and communities impacted by our trips. As firm believers in the human urge to explore and learn, even in times of social distancing, we have established an enhanced set of security guidelines to guarantee the optimal travel experience. Read more Trending Adventures Treks in Peru Suggested Itineraries and Best Alternative Treks in Peru beyond the Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu and the Inca Trail.

These excursions will show you a different side of Peru that is just as extraordinary and breathtaking. With us, you'll experience exceptional hospitality and personal attention to detail as our passionate and professional guides share the best parts of Peru. Cusco Llacto - Vinicunca Rainbow Mountain Full Day 1 Full Day from US$100

Surprise yourself with a destination like no other: Rainbow Mountain! Vinicunca Mountain offers you a dream-like landscape with the colors of the rainbow all stacked on top of one another for you to see like a multicolor mantle or a reflection of a rainbow on Earth. Vinicunca can be admired all year-round. Read More Cusco Soraypampa - Humantay Lake Humantay Lake Full Day Tour 1 Full Day from US$100

Discover the gem that is the lake, which gathers water from the glacier sitting atop. The Humantay is a 5,473 meters (17,956 ft) mountain in the Vilcabamba Range in the Andes of Peru. Hiking to Humantay Lake is undoubtedly one of the best one-day trips you can do from Cusco, Peru. Read More Cusco Piskacucho - Wiñaywayna - Machu Picchu Machu Picchu Full Day Tour1 Full Day from US$320

Named one of the New 7 wonders of the world, considered one of the most important energy centers in the world, and an iconic, world-renowned tourist destination, Machu Picchu, awaits to captivate you with its splendor! Read More Cusco Poroy - Ollantaytambo - Machu Picchu Machu Picchu by Train 2 Days 2 Days from US$380

Our tour begins on one of the most incredible train trips in the entire world. The rails follow the path of the Urubamba River towards the cloud forest that surrounds Machu Picchu. Read More Suggested Peru Destinations Discover Machu Picchu and Cusco alongside the country's finest travel guides.

Peru offers world-class tourist attractions, with mysterious archaeological sites, awe-inspiring landscapes and diverse wildlife. In this vast and storied land, ancient, colonial, and modern traditions meld together for an unforgettable cultural experience. No matter the type of traveler—history buff, adventurer, or foodie—Peru offers a myriad of activities to satisfy every appetite. Choquequirao Cusco, Peru Ausangate Cusco, Peru Huchuy Qosqo Cusco, Peru Lares Cusco, Peru Ancascocha Cusco, Peru Inca Jungle Cusco, Peru Travel That Gives Back Everything from one source

There's a reason why so many people recommend our adventure holidays. Community Support

Supporting the livelihoods of the people in our destinations. Yuraq Quirucha

Dental Care Education Learning Spaces

Educational support and mentorship Ecological Campsites

Sustainable Tourism Reforestation Project

Increase green areas Environment Responsibility

Improve the cleanliness of the Salkantay route and its surroundings Frecuently Asked Questions 10 Most Frecuently Asked Questions at Salkantay Trekking How do you prevent altitude sickness in Cusco?

The best way to prevent altitude sickness in Cusco is to be prepared. During your first 2 days you should take things easy. This means you shouldn’t take part in any strenuous activity. You should rest a lot and drink plenty of water. Alcohol and smoking isn’t a good idea as it can agitate you and make you feel a lot worse. How to avoid altitude sickness in Peru?

You can avoid altitude sickness by spending a few days taking it easy in Cusco before you head off on any kind of trek. Trying to do a tough activity too soon could make you very ill. You should also eat lightly and avoid alcohol to feel your best. What is the best trek to Machu Picchu?

There’s no definite answer to this as there are many options. The Inca Trail is the most popular and needs to be booked months in advance as there are only a certain number of spots each day. The best alternative trek is considered to be Salkantay, which offers a real adventure and fantastic scenery. Inca Jungle is great for those seeking a thrill and Lares is a top option if you want a quieter and more rural experience. If you have a lot of time and want to experience two incredible Inca sites, you can opt for the Choquequirao trek. Which is better Inca Trail or Salkantay trail?

This depends on the individual who wants to trek. The Inca Trail is extremely popular as it takes you along the real trail where the Incas once walked. However, many say that the scenery on Salkantay is more beautiful. For this reason we would say go for the Inca Trail if you’re a real history lover and like to hike well-known treks, but go for Salkantay if you want to witness stunning landscapes and a variety of different climates. Is the Salkantay Trek Dangerous?

The trek isn’t dangerous. You’re with fully qualified guides all the way to make sure you always stay on track. They are there to help you if you feel sick at all along the way. The path can be uneven, but if you take it slowly, you’ll have no issues. During wet season, November to April, you’ll have to take more care when you walk to avoid slipping. Is the Salkantay Trek hard?

The trek is moderately challenging. This means that most people will be able to complete it if they are well-prepared. Most of the trek isn’t too challenging. It’s just the second day where you walk up to the Salkantay pass. You’ll trek for a total of 10 hours that day. What makes this trek difficult is the high altitude at which you hike and the different terrains as well as changing climate. How high is the Salkantay Pass?

The Salkantay Pass sits at 4,600 masl. How cold is the Salkantay trek?

Along the trail you’ll experience a lot of different climates. You’ll need to pack for the cold on the first two days. The first night will get below zero, so you need to make sure you have warm clothing and an excellent sleeping bag. Do you need a permit for the Salkantay trek?

You don’t need a permit for the Salkantay trek. You do need to pay S/10 upon entering, but this doesn’t need to be reserved in advance, meaning that there is always space available. How can I prepare for Salkantay Trek?

To prepare for trekking at high altitudes we recommend you start to prepare a few weeks before. You should start a fitness regime that includes daily stretching and exercises, particularly for your legs. We recommend taking hikes at home weekly before you come to do the trail. What helps altitude sickness in Cusco?

If you do feel sick, there are a few things you can try. One is to speak to your doctor before you come to see if you can get a prescription for pills to help. These can also be bought in pharmacies in Cusco. Other helpful ways are to drink coca or muna (Andean mint) tea, which have been in use since the Inca times. Small oxygen bottles are also available in pharmacies and can really help. What are the coldest months in Cusco Peru?

The coldest months in Cusco are from May to July. During this time the sun is strong in the day, but once it goes down or you spend much time in the shade, it can get very cold. It can go below zero at night, so warm clothes are a must during these months. What is the best month to go to Machu Picchu?

The best month in all the year is October. The climate is just right and the sky is usually very clear. It’s also not the busiest season so it isn’t overrun by visitors. However, anytime from May to October is a good time as it’s the dry season so you won’t get wet. Can you hike to Machu Picchu in one day?

You can’t hike to Machu Picchu in one day from Cusco, but you can visit in one day. There’s a one day tour option where you start early in the morning and get a car to drive you to take the train from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes. You’ll then spend the morning in Machu Picchu before heading down for lunch, a brief rest or walk around the town, and then the train and car back to Cusco. What is the best month to hike the Inca Trail?

The best time of year is between May to October, with October being the best month of all. The trail is dry and the weather is lovely. During the rainy season the trail will be wet and can make it more difficult. How high is the Inca Trail altitude?

The highest part of the Inca Trail is Dead Woman’s Pass, which is 4,200 masl. The lowest you’ll reach is 2,600 masl, meaning that the rest of the trek is between these two altitudes. How hard is hiking to Dead Woman's Pass?

This is one of the most challenging parts of the Inca Trail as it’s almost 1,000 metres of uphill walking to get to this point. However, you’ll be rewarded with fantastic views once you get to the top. What should I pack for the Inca Trail?

You’ll need to pack lightly as you only have a limited amount of space/weight that you can take. You need to make sure you have clothing for warm and cold climates, as well as lots of sun and bug protection. We recommend using thin layers that can be taken on and off as needed. In addition make sure you have toiletries and any personal medication you need to take. Don’t forget your permit, Machu Picchu tickets, and passport as you won’t be able to enter without these. Is the Inca Trail difficult?

The Inca Trail is relatively difficult. You’ll be hiking up to a high altitude and a lot of the trail is along ancient steps. This means it can be tough on your knees and ankles. Take your time to allow your body to adjust. How fit do you need to be to walk the Inca Trail?

You do need to be relatively fit to hike the trail. You’ll be heading up to a high altitudes and hiking along rough terrain, both of which can take their toll on your body. We recommend spending time training and hiking before you come to do the trail. What Our Clients Say We take great pride in taking care of our guests

Our travellers are our best advocates, and they frequently recommend our specialist travel services to friends, colleagues and family when planning a trip to our region. What an experience!

Must of been one of the most challenging treks I have done so far but was amazing ! Carlos our guide was the best as he took good care of us, was knowledgeable and really gave us the positive energy we needed in order to keep going! Would definitely recommend the experience as you get to see the Andes, the team is very organized, there was plenty of local food and many many stories to share :) @SoRi8 September 9, 2020 Salkantay Peru 5D/4N

A whole life experience, take the Salkantay trek 5D/4N. I am very satisfied with the trek, planning, and coordination that was shown throughout the tour, always with kindness, punctuality, and with the willingness to help. Great travel agency Salkantay Trekking. Very kind and attentive @MarcusForced July 20, 2020Wonderful trek!

It was honestly the most fantastic experience. My partner is quite fit, I would say I had a medium level of fitness, but 0 experience trekking or being at altitude and had felt a bit nervous before we went. But Freddy is a great guide and there were others in our group with a similar fitness level so it was nice to find someone your speed and trek together. It was an unforgettable experience and I’m so glad we got to do it, and feel so lucky we had Freddy as our guide!!! @Belle_arose1 June 28, 2020 What Defines Us Everything from one source

There's a reason why so many people recommend our adventure holidays. Locally Owned & Operated

Our owner and all of our staff are local to Peru and care about its environment, people and culture Legally Licensed

We are the operators! We are a licensed Tour Company. There is no middleman on a trip with us! Unforgettable Experiences

From big wows to hidden gems, our tours leave you feeling that you've really explored. Expert Local Guides

Chosen for great knowledge of their country, and a passion to make your trip extraordinary. Small Groups

Average groups of 8; solos, couples and friends, united by a desire for authentic experiences. Fantastic Meals

Our owner and all of our staff are local to Peru and care about its environment, people and culture Eco-Friendly Tours

Education and conservation are our passion. We aim to create lifelong ambassadors for the protection of all wilderness areas. Camping Equipment

When renting a camping tent or renting a backpack from Salkantay Trekking Company, you are renting camping gear and backpacking.