A JOURNEY FROM THE HIGH ANDES TO MACHU PICCHU
The Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu is more than a hike—it is a journey through the heart of the Andes.
Over 5 days and 4 nights, travel from the dramatic high mountains of Humantay and Salkantay to turquoise glacial lakes, remote Andean communities, lush cloud forests, coffee plantations, and tropical valleys.
Stand before the breathtaking Humantay Lake, cross the Salkantay Pass at 4,630 m / 15,190 ft, and descend from the high Andes into a completely different world. Along the way, discover Llactapata, walk ancient pathways, and experience the changing landscapes that make this route so extraordinary.
The journey ends in Aguas Calientes, at the foot of the legendary Machu Picchu—one of the world’s most remarkable archaeological wonders.
With Peru Hikers, our local guides, professional chefs, and Elite Inca Warriors take care of the details, sharing the history, culture, and spirit of the Andes along the way.
Five days. Four nights. From sacred mountains to Machu Picchu. One unforgettable journey through the Andes.
WHEN SHOULD I BOOK MY SALKANTAY TREK?
The Salkantay Trek operates most of the year, but booking in advance is recommended to secure your preferred dates, Machu Picchu tickets, trains, and accommodation.
MAY – AUGUST
4–8 months in advance Peak season with clearer skies and high demand, especially June–August.
APRIL & SEPTEMBER – OCTOBER
3–6 months in advance
Excellent trekking conditions and beautiful landscapes.
NOVEMBER – JANUARY
2–4 months in advance Greener landscapes and fewer crowds, with more variable weather.
FEBRUARY
TREK OPERATES
One of the wettest months. Expect rain, muddy trails, and changing conditions.
MARCH
2–4 months in advance
A beautiful transition month with lush green landscapes and improving weather.
OUR RECOMMENDATION: Book early, especially if you have fixed travel dates or plan to trek during the peak season.
AT A GLANCE
- Duration – 5 days / 4 nights
- Distance – Approximately 60–70 km / 37–43 mi
- Highest Point – Salkantay Pass – approx. 4,630 m / 15,190 ft
- Difficulty – Challenging
- Accommodation – 3 nights camping + 1 night in Aguas Calientes
- Trek Style – Small group or private
- Starting Point – Challacancha / Salkantay trailhead
- Starting Altitude – 3,700–3,800 m / 12,139–12,467 ft
- Finish – Machu Picchu / return to Cusco
- Languages – English and Spanish
- Recommended – Acclimatization 2–3 full days before the trek
IMPORTANT
-
The Salkantay Trek is a high-altitude and physically demanding adventure. The route reaches approximately 4,630 m / 15,190 ft at Salkantay Pass, so we strongly recommend spending at least 2–3 full days acclimatizing in Cusco or the Sacred Valley before departure. Walk at your own rhythm, stay hydrated, eat well, and communicate with your guide if you feel unwell.
HIGHLIGHTS
- DISCOVER HUMANTAY LAKE
Hike to the spectacular turquoise waters of Humantay Lake, surrounded by towering Andean peaks. CROSS SALKANTAY PASS Reach 4,630 m / 15,190 ft and stand beneath the majestic Nevado Salkantay, one of the sacred mountains of the Andes.
- FROM MOUNTAINS TO JUNGLE
Experience a dramatic change of scenery from glacial valleys and high mountains to lush cloud forests and tropical valleys.
- EXPERIENCE THE SACRED APUS
Discover the spiritual importance of the sacred mountains, or Apus, in Andean culture.
- DISCOVER ANDEAN COMMUNITIES
Pass through agricultural areas and experience local life, with crops such as coffee, cacao, fruit, and avocados.
- WALK THROUGH THE CLOUD FOREST
Enjoy waterfalls, orchids, tropical vegetation, coffee plantations, and mist-covered mountains.
- EXPLORE LLAQTAPATA
Visit the fascinating Llactapata archaeological site and enjoy spectacular views toward the Machu Picchu region.
- ENJOY FRESH TREKKING CUISINE
Refuel with fresh, nutritious meals prepared by your trekking chef throughout the journey.
- ARRIVE AT MACHU PICCHU
After crossing mountains, cloud forests, and tropical valleys, complete your adventure at the legendary Machu Picchu. You don’t simply visit Machu Picchu. You journey through the Andes to reach it.
WHY HIKE THE SALKANTAY TREK WITH PERU HIKERS?
LOCAL EXPERTS. AUTHENTIC EXPERIENCES.
Discover the Salkantay Trek with a professional Peru Hikers team and experience the
Andes through local knowledge, culture, history, and adventure.
EXPERIENCED TREKKING TEAM
Our professional guides, chefs, support staff, and Elite Inca Warriors work together to
handle meals, camps, equipment, transportation, and logistics.
You enjoy the journey. We take care of the rest.
100% LOCALLY OWNED
Born in Cusco and rooted in the Andes, our team shares the traditions, stories, culture, and landscapes that make the Salkantay region unique.
MORE THAN A HIKE
Travel through sacred mountains, glacial valleys, local communities, cloud forests, and tropical landscapes before reaching Machu Picchu.
CARE & COMFORT ON THE TRAIL
After each day of adventure, enjoy fresh, nutritious meals, comfortable camps, and dedicated support from our trekking team.
TRUSTED BY TRAVELERS
Join travelers from around the world who have experienced the Andes with Peru Hikers.
⭐ 5.0 RATED ON TRIPADVISOR & GOOGLE
Recognized for our professional guides, local expertise, reliable service, and unforgettable trekking experiences.
A JOURNEY TO REMEMBER
From Humantay Lake and Salkantay Pass to Machu Picchu, every step reveals a new
landscape and a new experience.
TRAVEL DEEPER. EXPERIENCE THE ANDES. JOURNEY WITH PERU
HIKERS.
ITINERARY
DAY 1 — CUSCO → MOLLEPATA → CHALLACANCHA → SORAYPAMPA → HUMANTAY LAKE
INTO THE HIGH ANDES
From the Sacred Valley of the Andes to the turquoise waters of Humantay Lake.
Your Salkantay Trek adventure begins early in the morning with a pickup from your hotel in Cusco. Leaving the city behind, we travel through spectacular Andean landscapes toward Mollepata, where the mountains begin to rise dramatically around us.
We continue to Challacancha, the starting point of today’s hike. Here, you meet your trekking team, prepare your daypack, and begin walking into the heart of the Salkantay region.
THE TRAIL TO SORAYPAMPA
From Challacancha, the trail gradually climbs through an impressive high-altitude landscape. As we gain elevation, the scenery becomes increasingly dramatic, with towering mountains, open valleys, and spectacular views of the surrounding peaks.
Our destination is Soraypampa, a beautiful high-Andean valley located beneath some of the most impressive mountains of the region.
After arriving at camp, enjoy a freshly prepared lunch and take some time to rest before the afternoon’s highlight.
THE SACRED HUMANTAY LAKE
In the afternoon, we begin our ascent toward Humantay Lake, one of the most spectacular natural wonders along the Salkantay Trek.
The trail climbs steadily through the rugged mountain landscape. Although the ascent is challenging, the scenery makes every step worthwhile.
As you reach the lake, the brilliant turquoise waters of Humantay Lake appear beneath the imposing slopes of Humantay Mountain.
Take time to breathe, explore, take photographs, and simply enjoy the extraordinary landscape. For local Andean communities, these mountains and lakes are deeply connected to nature, spirituality, and the tradition of respecting Pachamama — Mother Earth.
After enjoying Humantay Lake, we descend along the same trail back to Soraypampa.
Back at camp, a warm drink, dinner, and your comfortable campsite await. As darkness settles over the mountains, the high-altitude sky comes alive with stars—a perfect end to your first day on the Salkantay Trek.
DAY 1 DETAILS
DETAIL INFORMATION
- Route Cusco → Mollepata → Challacancha → Soraypampa → Humantay Lake
- Distance Approx. 10–14 km / 6–9 mi*
- Walking time Approx. 5–7 hours*
- Starting altitude Approx. 3,700–3,800 m / 12,139–12,467 ft
- Camp altitude Approx. 3,850–3,900 m / 12,631–12,795 ft
- Humantay Lake Approx. 4,200 m / 13,780 ft
- Difficulty Moderate to Challenging
- Meals Breakfast, lunch, afternoon tea & dinner
- Highlights Mollepata • Soraypampa • Humantay Lake • Humantay Mountain
*Distance and hiking time may vary depending on the confirmed route and trail conditions.
GUIDE’S TIP
START SLOW. FINISH STRONG.
Your first day is about adapting to the altitude, not racing the trail.
Walk at a comfortable pace, drink water regularly, and listen to your body. The Salkantay Trek rewards patience—take time to enjoy the mountains and save your energy for the spectacular days ahead.
DAY 2 — SORAYPAMPA → SALKANTAY PASS → HUAYRACMACHAY → CHAULLAY
THE DAY OF THE GREAT PASS
Wake early to the crisp mountain air and dramatic views of the surrounding peaks.
After breakfast, we begin the most demanding ascent of the Salkantay Trek.
The trail gradually climbs through an increasingly rugged landscape toward the Salkantay Pass.
As you gain altitude, the mountains become larger and more dramatic. The imposing Nevado Salkantay rises above the route, reminding you why this mountain has been considered sacred for generations.
Step by step, you reach the highest point of the journey:
SALKANTAY PASS — APPROX. 4,630 M / 15,190 FT
Take a moment to celebrate.
You have crossed one of the highest trekking passes in the Cusco region.
From the pass, the landscape changes completely.
The trail descends toward Huayracmachay, eventually entering warmer environments and the beginning of the cloud forest.
The descent continues toward Chaullay, where your team prepares a well-deserved dinner and a comfortable place to rest.
DAY 2 DETAILS
- Distance: Approx. 20–22 km / 12–14 mi
- Walking time: Approx. 8–10 hours
- Highest point: Approx. 4,630 m / 15,190 ft
- Camp: Chaullay area
- Difficulty: Challenging
- Main highlight: Salkantay Pass
- Terrain: High-altitude trail, mountain paths, rocky terrain & long descent
- Meals: Breakfast, lunch, afternoon tea & dinner
GUIDE’S TIP
This is your biggest day.
Use a slow, steady rhythm on the ascent and controlled steps during the descent. Your goal is not to be first—it is to enjoy the journey and arrive safely.
DAY 3 — CHAULLAY → COLLPAPAMPA → LA PLAYA → LUCMABAMBA
FROM THE HIGH ANDES TO THE JUNGLE
Today begins the great transformation of the landscape.
Leaving Chaullay behind, the trail gradually descends through the Santa Teresa Valley, where the cold high-altitude environment gives way to warmer, greener surroundings.
Waterfalls appear beside the trail.
The vegetation becomes denser.
Orchids, tropical plants, fruit trees, coffee plantations, and small farms begin replacing the rocky mountain landscape.
We pass through Collpapampa and continue toward La Playa, following the valley through one of the most beautiful transitions of the entire trek.
Eventually we reach Lucmabamba, a small agricultural community surrounded by lush vegetation.
Here, you can experience the authentic agricultural culture of the region and learn about local coffee and tropical crops.
After dinner, enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of the cloud forest.
Tonight, the mountains feel very different from the ones you left behind yesterday.
DAY 3 DETAILS
- Distance: Approx. 14–17 km / 9–11 mi
- Walking time: Approx. 5–7 hours
- Altitude: Approx. 2,000–2,900 m / 6,560–9,515 ft
- Camp: Lucmabamba area
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Main highlights: Collpapampa, waterfalls, cloud forest, coffee farms, Lucmabamba
- Terrain: Descending trail, tropical vegetation, river valleys & local farming areas
- Meals: Breakfast, lunch, afternoon tea & dinner
GUIDE’S TIP
This is the day to slow down and look around.
The Salkantay Trek is not only about mountains. Pay attention to the changing vegetation,
local farms, birds, flowers, and the people who live along the route.
DAY 4 — LUCMABAMBA → LLAQTAPATA → HIDROELÉCTRICA → AGUAS CALIENTES
THE ROAD TO MACHU PICCHU
Your final trekking day begins in the green mountains above the Urubamba Valley.
From Lucmabamba, we begin the ascent toward Llactapata, an important archaeological site connected with the wider Inca landscape.
The trail climbs through lush vegetation before opening to spectacular mountain views.
From the area around Llactapata, the landscape begins to reveal the mountains surrounding Machu Picchu.
It is a powerful moment.
After exploring and taking photographs, we continue descending toward Hidroeléctrica.
Here, the trail becomes gentler as we follow the railway corridor toward Aguas Calientes, the small town located below Machu Picchu.
The final kilometers give you time to reflect on the journey:
Four days ago, you were walking beneath glaciers.
Now you are surrounded by tropical vegetation at the foot of Machu Picchu.
Tonight, enjoy a well-deserved shower, a comfortable hotel room, and your final evening before visiting the ancient citadel.
DAY 4 DETAILS
- Distance: Approx. 18 km / 11 mi
- Walking time: Approx. 7–9 hours
- Highest point: Approx. 2,700 m / 8,858 ft at Llactapata
- Finish: Aguas Calientes
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Main highlights: Lucmabamba, Llactapata, Hidroeléctrica, railway trail
- Accommodation: Hotel in Aguas Calientes
- Meals: Breakfast, lunch & dinner
GUIDE’S TIP
Keep some energy for Llactapata and the final railway walk.
You are almost there.
DAY 5 — AGUAS CALIENTES → MACHU PICCHU → CUSCO THE MOMENT YOU CAME FOR
Today, your Salkantay adventure reaches its ultimate destination.
After an early breakfast, we prepare for the short journey from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu.
Depending on your confirmed entrance schedule and circuit, you will travel by bus toward the entrance of the citadel.
Then you step inside one of the most extraordinary archaeological sites on Earth.
Your professional guide leads you through the route assigned to your Machu Picchu entrance, explaining the history, architecture, agricultural terraces, temples, engineering, and spiritual significance of the ancient sanctuary.
Take your time.
Look beyond the stone walls.
The mountains surrounding Machu Picchu are part of the experience.
After your guided visit, return to Aguas Calientes, where you will have time for lunch on your own before boarding the tourist train toward Ollantaytambo.
Upon arrival, a Peru Hikers representative will meet you and provide your private transportation back to Cusco.
DAY 5 DETAILS
- Machu Picchu altitude: 2,430 m / 7,972 ft
- Machu Picchu visit: According to your assigned entrance time and circuit
- Main highlight: Machu Picchu
- Lunch: Not included; available in Aguas Calientes
- Return: Tourist train to Ollantaytambo + private transfer to Cusco
GUIDE’S TIP
Don’t rush your first moments at Machu Picchu.
After five days of crossing mountains, forests, and valleys, take a moment to appreciate where you are.
You made it.
DO WE CARRY ALL OUR LUGGAGE?
No. You will hike with a daypack containing the items you need during the day. Our
permitted trekking support team carries your personal duffel between camps, allowing you
to enjoy the trail with less weight.
WE TAKE CARE OF THE JOURNEY
WHAT'S INCLUDED
WE TAKE CARE OF THE JOURNEY
- Pre-trek briefing with your professional guide
- Assistance with preparation and packing
- Salkantay Trek entrance/route fees where applicable
- Machu Picchu entrance associated with the trek
- Pickup from central Cusco
- Private transportation to the trailhead
- Complete operational support from the Peru Hikers team
CAMPING EQUIPMENT
- Quality sleeping tents
- Dining tent
- Kitchen tent
- Tables and stools
- Cooking equipment
- Foam sleeping mat
- Portable toilet facilities when included in the confirmed service
- Daily warm washing water where available
SAFETY & SUPPORT
- First-aid kit
- Emergency oxygen
- Emergency communication procedures
- Daily wellbeing monitoring
YOUR TREKKING TEAM
- Professional English-speaking local guide
- Assistant guide when required by group size
- Experienced trekking chef
- Kitchen support team
- Elite Inca Warriors — our professional horsemen team
- Staff transportation, meals, and required trekking equipment
FOOD & DRINKING WATER
- Breakfasts during the trekking itinerary
- Lunches during the trekking days
- Afternoon tea
- Dinners during the trekking days
- Freshly prepared trekking meals
- Vegetarian and vegan options with advance notice
- Common dietary requirements with advance notice
- Boiled drinking water once camp kitchen operations are established
- Hot drinks and traditional Andean infusions
MACHU PICCHU & RETURN
- Guided Machu Picchu experience with your private guide
- Visit according to the official circuit assigned to your trek
- Bus from Machu Picchu to Aguas Calientes
- Tourist train to Ollantaytambo
- Private transportation from Ollantaytambo to your Cusco hotel
NOT INCLUDED
- International or domestic flights
- Accommodation before or after the trek
- Lunch in Aguas Calientes on Day 4
- Sleeping bag
- Inflatable sleeping mattress
- Trekking poles
- Personal daypack
- Travel and medical insurance
- Personal medication
- Personal snacks and beverages
- Additional porter allowance beyond your confirmed service
- Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain entrance unless specifically added
- Expenses caused by circumstances outside Peru Hikers’ control
- Voluntary gratuities
OPTIONAL RENTALS & UPGRADES
- SLEEPING BAG Stay warm and comfortable during cool Andean nights with a four-season sleeping bag.
- TREKKING POLES Extra stability and support for steep and uneven trails.
- INFLATABLE MATTRESS Add comfort, cushioning, and insulation to your night at camp.
- TRAIN: HIDROELÉCTRICA → AGUAS CALIENTES Skip the final railway walk with an optional train service, subject to availability.
- HUAYNA PICCHU Add an unforgettable climb with spectacular views of Machu Picchu. Separate entrance required.
- MACHU PICCHU MOUNTAIN Enjoy panoramic views of the citadel and surrounding Andes. Separate entrance required.
- HOTEL UPGRADE Upgrade your Aguas Calientes stay for extra comfort after your trek.
TRAVEL INFORMATION
Everything you need to know before walking the Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu.From your pre- trek briefing and duffel bag to altitude, weather, camping, meals, and your arrival at Machu Picchu, our team takes care of the details so you can focus on the adventure.
PRE-TREK BRIEFING
Your Salkantay briefing normally takes place the evening before your trek. During this meeting, your guide will review:
- The complete itinerary
- Departure time
- Trail conditions
- Accommodation
- Packing recommendations
- Duffel bag organization
- Altitude considerations
- Machu Picchu logistics
- Questions you may have before departure
ALTITUDE & ACCLIMATIZATION
The Salkantay Trek reaches approximately 4,630 m / 15,190 ft at Salkantay Pass.
Give your body time to adapt by spending at least 2–3 full days acclimatizing in Cusco or
the Sacred Valley before the trek.
Walk at a comfortable pace.
Stay hydrated.
Eat well.
And always communicate with your guide if you feel unwell.
DUFFEL BAG
Travel lighter on the trail.
We provide a trekking duffel bag for the personal items you need during the trek. Our porter team carries the permitted weight between camps, allowing you to keep your
daypack light.
Your guide will explain the weight allowance and recommended packing during the briefing.
PICKUP & DEPARTURE
Your adventure begins with an early-morning pickup from your hotel in Cusco.
From there, we travel toward the Salkantay trailhead and begin your journey into the
Andes.
ALTITUDE SICKNESS
Altitude affects everyone differently, regardless of age or fitness.
Symptoms can include headache, dizziness, nausea, fatigue, and shortness of breath.
Tell your guide immediately if you experience symptoms, especially if they become severe or worsen.
Your safety always comes first.
PREVENTIVE MEDICATION
If you are considering medication to prevent altitude sickness, consult your doctor or qualified healthcare professional before traveling.
Never self-medicate.
THE GREAT LANDSCAPE TRANSFORMATION
One of the greatest rewards of the Salkantay Trek is the extraordinary change in climate and vegetation.
HIGH ANDES
- Glaciers.
- Snow-capped peaks.
- Rocky mountain valleys.
- Cold temperatures.
CLOUD FOREST
- Moss-covered trees.
- Waterfalls.
- Orchids.
- Mist.
HIGH JUNGLE
- Coffee.
- Cacao.
- Bananas.
- Avocados.
- Tropical vegetation.
MACHU PICCHU
- Ancient stone.
- Sacred mountains.
- Cloud forest.
- And one unforgettable destination.
HORSE & DAYPACK
Our Horse carry essential expedition equipment and permitted personal duffels. This allows you to hike with a lighter daypack.
Carry only what you need during the day:
- Water
- Rain protection
- Sunscreen
- Snacks
- Personal medication
- Camera
- Passport
- Warm layer
TIPPING
Tipping is voluntary and is not required.
Many travelers choose to tip guides, chefs, porters, and other members of the trekking team as a way of showing appreciation for their work.
There is no mandatory amount.
Tip according to your experience and personal preference.
WEATHER ON THE SALKANTAY TREK
Mountain weather can change quickly.
During the same trek you may experience:
Strong sun. Cold temperatures. Wind. Rain. Humidity. Tropical heat.
Pack layers and always carry:
- Rain protection
- Warm clothing
- Sun protection
- Waterproof protection for your belongings
MEALS
Our professional trekking chefs prepare fresh, nourishing meals throughout the trek.
Expect a combination of:
- Breakfasts
- Trail lunches
- Afternoon teas
- Dinners
- Hot drinks
- Traditional Andean infusions
Vegetarian, vegan, and common dietary requirements can be accommodated with advance notice.
Please inform us about allergies or dietary restrictions when booking.
CAMPING
Your first three nights are spent along the Salkantay route in carefully organized campsites.
Our team manages the camping equipment and campsite logistics while our chefs prepare your meals.
After each demanding day, return to camp, enjoy a warm meal, relax, and prepare for the next adventure.
On the fourth night, you will stay in Aguas Calientes, giving you the opportunity to rest in a hotel before your Machu Picchu visit.
TRAVEL INSURANCE
We strongly recommend comprehensive travel insurance covering trekking and high altitude activities.
Your policy should ideally include:
- Medical expenses
- Emergency assistance
- Evacuation
- Trip interruption
- Delays
- Cancellation protection
Always confirm that your policy covers the activities included in your Salkantay Trek.
ARRIVING AT MACHU PICCHU
After crossing some of the most dramatic landscapes in the Andes, your journey culminates
at Machu Picchu.
Your Machu Picchu visit follows the circuit and route assigned to your entrance ticket.
Because entrance schedules, circuits, and regulations can change, our team will provide the
information and instructions applicable to your confirmed travel date.
OPTIONAL ADD-ONS
HUMANTAY LAKE
Already part of our classic itinerary, this spectacular turquoise glacial lake is one of thedefining experiences of Day 1.
LLAQTAPATA
Discover an archaeological site offering a unique mountain perspective toward the Machu Picchu region.
HUAYNA PICCHU
Add an exhilarating climb above Machu Picchu.
A separate ticket is required and availability is limited.
MACHU PICCHU MOUNTAIN
Enjoy expansive panoramic views over Machu Picchu and the surrounding Andes.
A separate ticket is required and subject to availability.
HOTEL UPGRADE
End your trekking adventure with an upgraded stay in Aguas Calientes.
TRAIN UPGRADE
Upgrade your return journey for greater comfort and a more scenic experience through the Sacred Valley.
WHAT TO PACK
PACK LIGHT. HIKE COMFORTABLY.
Your daypack should contain everything you need during the day’s hike, while your duffel is carried between camps.
ESSENTIAL DOCUMENTS
- Original passport
- Travel insurance information
- Emergency contacts
- Some Peruvian soles
DUFFEL
- 2–3 moisture-wicking hiking shirts
- 2 pairs of hiking trousers
- Optional hiking shorts
- Thermal base layers
- Warm fleece
- Lightweight insulated jacket
- Comfortable underwear
- 4 pairs of hiking socks
- Warm sleeping clothes
- Camp shoes or sandals
- Clean clothes for Machu Picchu
- Comfortable clothes for the return journey
FOOTWEAR
- Well-broken-in hiking boots with good traction
- Comfortable camp shoes or sandals
- Moisture-wicking hiking socks
Never begin a multi-day trek in brand-new hiking boots. Break them in before your adventure.
DAYPACK
We recommend a 20–25 L backpack with:
- Rain cover
- 2–3 L water capacity
- Rain jacket or poncho
- Waterproof trousers
- Fleece or insulated jacket
- Sun hat
- Beanie
- Gloves
- Sunglasses
- Sunscreen
- Lip balm
- Insect repellent
- Personal medication
- Blister treatment
- Hand sanitizer
- Tissues
- Toilet paper
- Headlamp
- Camera/phone
- Power bank
- Personal snacks
CHOOSE HOW YOU WANT TO TRAVEL
Travel with a premium small group for a social and rewarding experience, or choose a private departure for greater flexibility and personalized attention.
PRIVATE TREK
BOOKING & PAYMENT
SECURE YOUR SALKANTAY ADVENTURE
RESERVE WITH CONFIDENCE
A deposit is required to secure your Salkantay Trek and confirm your services, including Machu Picchu entrance.
Once your booking is confirmed, you can pay the remaining balance online or at our Peru Hikers office in Cusco by credit card or bank transfer.
BOOKING INFORMATION
Please provide your details exactly as they appear on your passport:
Full name • Passport number • Date of birth • Nationality • Passport expiration date •
Departure date • Dietary requirements • Student documentation, if applicable
IMPORTANT
Your original passport is required for Machu Picchu and must match your reservation details.
Renewed your passport after booking?
Please contact Peru Hikers immediately so we can update your information.
READY TO HIKE?
Secure your date. Pack your spirit of adventure. Let the Andes take care of the rest.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Do I need previous trekking experience?
Previous multi-day trekking experience is helpful but not required.
You should be physically active and comfortable walking for several hours a day, including
steep ascents and descents.
Is the Salkantay Trek difficult?
The trek is considered moderate to challenging, particularly because of the altitude and
the long ascent to Salkantay Pass.
Good preparation and acclimatization are important.
How high is Salkantay Pass?
The highest point is approximately 4,630 m / 15,190 ft.
Do I need to acclimatize?
Yes.
We strongly recommend spending 2–3 full days acclimatizing in Cusco or the Sacred
Valley before starting the trek.
Can I hike at my own pace?
Your guide establishes a comfortable group pace with regular breaks.
Private departures offer the greatest flexibility
How much luggage can I take?
Your confirmed duffel allowance depends on the service booked.
Your guide will explain the applicable allowance during the pre-trek briefing.
Who carries the duffel?
Our Elite Inca Warriors transport permitted personal duffels between camps, allowing you
to hike with a lighter daypack.
Can I hike during the rainy season?
Yes, the Salkantay route can operate throughout the year, although weather and trail
conditions can vary significantly.
During wetter periods, waterproof clothing and good footwear are essential.
Can children hike the Salkantay Trek?
Some active children can complete the trek depending on age, fitness, altitude experience,
and motivation.
Families should contact us before booking.
Can I take the train from Hidroeléctrica to Aguas Calientes?
An optional train may be available depending on the operating schedule and availability.
Ask our team when booking.
Are there bathrooms along the route?
Basic facilities are available at designated locations and campsites.
Conditions vary throughout the trek.
Can I charge my phone?
There are no reliable charging facilities along much of the trail.
Bring a fully charged power bank.
Can the itinerary change?
Yes.
Weather, trail conditions, landslides, road operations, railway schedules, emergencies, local
conditions, or government instructions may require adjustments.
Safety and official regulations always come first.
THE PERU HIKERS DIFFERENCE
LOCAL ROOTS. REAL EXPERIENCE.
Born in Cusco and deeply connected to the Andes, Peru Hikers offers more than a trek— we create meaningful journeys.
Our local guides, trekking chefs, horsemen, and Elite Inca Warriors work together to provide authentic experiences, delicious meals, expert support, and genuine connections with the Andes.
