Experience the awe-inspiring beauty of the Salkantay hike in just two days, as you immerse yourself in the stunning Andean landscapes of Peru. This short trek is perfect for adventurers seeking a deeper connection with nature beyond Machu Picchu.
Explore dramatic mountain scenery around Cusco’s second-highest peak, featuring glaciers, waterfalls, rivers, and turquoise lagoons like Humantay and Salkantay. Spend the night at a scenic campsite, surrounded by nature and fresh mountain air, offering a peaceful and authentic Andean experience.
Highlights include hiking to the spectacular Humantay Lake, crossing the impressive Salkantay Pass, and enjoying panoramic views throughout the route. Daily departures are available, with vegetarian and vegan meals upon request.
Select the package that best suits your travel plans.
Click on the “Book Online” button, choose your travel date, and complete the booking form.
Important: Only one person should fill out the form for the entire group to ensure you're all booked together.
Secure your booking by paying online with any debit or credit card.
Our system will charge 40% of the total amount in advance.
After your payment is completed, our reservations team will contact you via email to request the following information for each passenger (please include a photo or scanned image of the passport): Full name, Passport number, Nationality, Date of birth, Gender, Phone number
If your student card meets Peruvian government requirements, reserve the tour with a deposit and pay the remaining balance upon arrival in Cusco. The student discount will be applied at that time.
All university cards must be laminated and clearly show the following information:
Get your backpack ready with the following recommendations!
These are must-haves for any multi-day hike in the Andes, especially if you're joining a guided Salkantay tour:
Valid Passport or ID – Needed for checkpoints and Machu Picchu entry.
Cash in soles – Small bills for tips, snacks, or hot springs.
Camera or phone – Capture epic landscapes and memories.
Power bank – Electricity is limited; keep your devices charged.
Travel insurance – Strongly recommended for trekking in remote areas.
Altitude pills or coca leaves – To help with high elevation.
Plastic bags or dry bags – Keep clothes and electronics dry during rain.
Weather changes drastically from sun to snow. Dress in layers and stay dry:
Hiking boots or trail shoes – Waterproof, durable, and already broken in.
Hiking socks – Wool or synthetic (not cotton); bring several pairs.
Long pants – Lightweight, quick-drying hiking pants or leggings.
Moisture-wicking shirts or T-shirts – Stay cool and dry while hiking.
Fleece jacket or thermal layer – For cold nights and high elevations.
Waterproof jacket or rain poncho – Essential year-round.
Swimwear – For hot springs in Santa Teresa.
Sandals or flip flops – Ideal for relaxing at camp or letting feet breathe.
Sunglasses – Strong UV rays at altitude.
Sun hat or cap – Shield your face from sunburn.
Buff or neck gaiter – Great for sun, wind, or dust.
Headlamp or flashlight – With extra batteries, useful at camp or early morning hikes.
Trekking poles (optional) – Helpful for balance and knee support, especially downhill.
Water bottle or hydration bladder – At least 1.5–2 liters capacity.
Daypack – Comfortable, lightweight pack for your daily essentials.
Personal medication – Especially for altitude, allergies, or chronic conditions.
Toiletries – Toothbrush, toothpaste, biodegradable soap, small towel.
Wet wipes or hand sanitizer – Useful when water access is limited.
Toilet paper – Always good to carry your own.
Pack light but smart—you may have a duffel bag carried by mules, but you’ll still carry your daypack.
Use ziplock or dry bags to organize and waterproof your gear.
Don’t forget snacks for the trail—nuts, energy bars, and chocolate are great.
Nights can be very cold (below freezing) near the Salkantay Pass—don’t underestimate the need for warm layers.
We help you solve any doubts you may have!
The Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu is one of the most scenic and adventurous alternatives to the Inca Trail. It takes you through the majestic Salkantay Mountain, high-altitude passes, and lush cloud forests, offering a more diverse and less crowded route to Machu Picchu.
It is considered moderately to highly challenging, with several steep ascents and descents, plus hiking at elevations over 4,500 meters (15,000 ft). Good physical condition and some acclimatization are highly recommended.
The classic Salkantay Trek takes 5 days and 4 nights, ending at Machu Picchu on the final day. Some itineraries offer shorter or longer versions, but most follow a route from Soraypampa to Aguas Calientes via the Salkantay Pass
You should pack layered clothing, waterproof gear, hiking boots, personal medications, and camping essentials. See our detailed Salkantay Trek Packing List to be fully prepared.
Yes, you should have moderate to good fitness, as you’ll hike 6–9 hours per day on uneven and high-altitude terrain. Acclimatizing in Cusco for 2–3 days beforehand is strongly recommended.
While it is possible to do the trek without a guide, going with a licensed tour operator is much safer and more convenient. Guides handle logistics, meals, gear, and provide local insights.
The best season is April to October (dry season). During November to March (rainy season), the trail becomes muddy and more challenging, but still possible for experienced hikers.
Yes. Since the trail reaches up to 4,650 m (15,255 ft), altitude sickness is a real risk. To reduce symptoms, spend a few days acclimatizing in Cusco, stay hydrated, and consider coca tea or altitude medication.
Unlike the Inca Trail, the Salkantay Trek does not require a permit, so it’s more flexible. However, booking in advance is recommended during high season (May–September) to secure the best tour spots and services.
The Salkantay Trek is more challenging, less crowded, and offers more varied scenery (glaciers, jungle, waterfalls). The Inca Trail is shorter, includes original Inca ruins, and requires a government permit. Both end at Machu Picchu, but offer different experiences.
It’s easy to fabricate written reviews or create fake ones on platforms like TripAdvisor, but we believe the best proof comes from video testimonials. Videos capture real experiences, showing genuine reactions from our travelers. That’s why we encourage you to check out our video reviews to see firsthand the authentic experiences our customers have had with us. Trust real stories from real people, not just words on a screen. You can also visit our social media channels to watch all our video testimonials and get an even better sense of the quality of our service.
100% Local Tour Operator to Machu Picchu Trekking and Bus Cusco Hidroelectrica Company 100% Local We are NOT intermediaries.
Discover the Experience of Quillabamba Coffee at Café Snack Abra Málaga, an unforgettable 15-minute stop on the Cusco – Hidroelectrica route. Enjoy organic jungle coffee, handcrafted chocolate, and a unique view of the Andes. Part of the exclusive Machu Picchu by Car VIP experience and without a doubt, a 100% Instagram-worthy spot
